By Sharon Smith | Entertainment | March 18, 2025
In a bold move that could redefine the landscape of American cinema, acclaimed director and actor Mel Gibson is spearheading a cinematic renaissance in Las Vegas. As Hollywood grapples with economic challenges and evolving industry dynamics, Gibson sees the vibrant city of Las Vegas as a beacon for filmmakers seeking fresh horizons.
Gibson’s latest directorial venture, “Flight Risk,” starring Mark Wahlberg, is being filmed entirely in Las Vegas. The director lauds the city’s exceptional production conditions, highlighting its potential to become a major hub for film production. “Las Vegas offers a unique blend of resources and opportunities that are hard to find elsewhere,” Gibson remarked.
This initiative aligns seamlessly with President Trump’s recent appointment of Gibson, alongside industry stalwarts Jon Voight and Sylvester Stallone, as special envoys tasked with revitalizing Hollywood’s business. The trio’s mission underscores a strategic pivot towards alternative locales that offer both economic advantages and creative freedom.
Despite California’s introduction of tax incentives to retain film productions, Gibson reveals that filming in Europe often proves more cost-effective than in California. He commends former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s efforts to level the playing field for the industry, though acknowledges the challenges that hindered those initiatives.
Mark Wahlberg, who has recently relocated to Nevada, is a fervent supporter of Senate Bill 238, which proposes the establishment of a sprawling movie studio in Summerlin. This ambitious project aims to generate approximately 10,000 jobs, each offering substantial salaries, thereby positioning Nevada as a formidable contender to Hollywood. Wahlberg envisions Nevada evolving into “Hollywood 2.0,” a testament to the state’s burgeoning potential in the entertainment sector.
As Las Vegas ascends as a cinematic powerhouse, industry insiders and audiences alike are keenly observing this transformative journey, anticipating a new era where the city’s glittering lights illuminate the future of filmmaking.
