Utah has always been a great place to film video. Some of the recent blockbusters filmed in Utah include well-known titles such as the Hulk, Pirates of the Carribean, and National Treasure. In fact, over 800 full-length movies have been filmed in the state, many of them big names.
It might be surrprising that Utah, with a relatively low population and conservative culture, would be attracted so many film makers. According to the owner of a company called video production Utah, “Utah makes it easy to work. A lot of states want to tax the profitability right out of your movie, while placing all kinds of restrictions and requirements on what you do. Utah is great because they’ll take their fair share and leave you alone.”
Many people are also aware of the Sundance film festival, which features some of the best independent films from across the country. Last year, some of those films were so well-made that they rivaled the production quality and cast of major box office hits. In Europe, for example, Troll Hunter went on to make millions based on its fun, wacky sense of humor and amazing special effects. American viewers, however, have traditionally showed little interest in foreign films, especially when subtitles are involved.
But Utah isn’t only flourishing because of its work in video. The state also features a surprising degree of artistic talent, with gallery strolls attracting thousands of visitors every month. Photographers, painters, sculptors, and designers show off their works to the public for free once every month, with hopes of selling some of their art.
From the same company quoted above, we hear that professional website development companies have recently begun sending scouts to the gallery strolls. It is their purpose to locate young talent. “These guys are usually struggling just to pay the bills. They’re hungry for work, and we’re hungry for talent. Design companies like ours love to work with aspiring artists while they launch their careers.”
While Salt Lake City and other surrounding cities may look dull, overly conservative, and lacking in artistic understanding, we have seen a strong revival of art throughout the state, with creativity benefiting the state’s booming technology industry.