August 14, 2026

Three New Productions Approved for Film Incentives in Utah

SALT LAKE CITY (August 14, 2026) – Today, the Utah Film Commission announced the Utah Board of Tourism Development approval of three new productions for state film incentives, generating an estimated economic impact of $9.3 million, creating over 100 new jobs, and filming in 5 counties across the state.

The approved projects include a mix of feature films and episodic series, including a new feature film from Utah-based writer and director Robert Machoian (“Omaha”, “The Killing of Two Lovers”) and produced by Republic Pictures. All productions are scheduled to begin shooting this summer and fall, with filming locations still being finalized.

“What resonated with me were the people of rural Utah—their preparedness, independence, privacy, devotion to family, and deep belief in taking care of their own,” said Machoian. “Utah’s landscape is rugged and uniquely beautiful, and I cannot imagine telling this story honestly anywhere else. We’re grateful to the Utah Film Commission for their support and we’re excited to bring this production to the state.”

“The approval of these three productions is a targeted investment in our state’s film industry,” said Virginia Pearce, Director of the Utah Film Commission. “By leveraging our film incentive program, we are fueling a ripple effect of activity that extends far beyond the screen by creating jobs, supporting small businesses, and diversifying the local economy.”

Below is a list of approved productions (in alphabetical order):

The Last Treasure Hunt
Distribution: TBD
Locations: Kane and Washington Counties

The Secret of Skinwalker Ranch: Season 8
Distribution: HISTORY Channel
Locations: Uintah County

Untitled Republic Pictures Project
Distribution: TBD
Locations: Iron and Utah Counties

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About the Utah Film Commission

As part of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development and the Utah Office Tourism, the Utah Film Commission formed in 1974 promotes the entire state as a destination for film, television, and commercial production by promoting the use of professional local crew and talent, support services, Utah locations, and the Motion Picture Incentive Program. The office also serves as a liaison to the film industry, facilitating production needs across the state.

Thousands of productions have been filmed in Utah over the last century, including John Ford’s “The Searchers,” “Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid,” “Thelma & Louise,” “Forrest Gump,” and most recently Marvel Studios’ “Thunderbolts.” Many episodic series have also been filmed in Utah, such as “Westworld,” “Yellowstone”, “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series,” and the CBS television series, “Marshals.”

For more information, visit film.utah.gov.