“One Battle After Another,” the movie partly shot in El Paso, brought millions of dollars to the Sun City during its production and filming in the borderland, according to officials.
The action thriller film, starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Benicio del Toro, contributed nearly $6 million in direct spending in El Paso, according to a news release from Destination El Paso, the city’s marketing organization. The movie was filmed for 18 days in May and June 2024, leading to many local sightings of DiCaprio and del Toro, including the pair dining and filming in Downtown.
Benicio del Toro was seen at Cafe Central while filming in El Paso. Leonardo DiCaprio is seen filming in Downtown El Paso.
A significant portion of the spending was building two major sets, which required extensive materials and labor, the news release said.
“The production’s investment included hiring local cast and extras, purchasing hardware and lumber,sourcing props, set dressing, and wardrobe, and utilizing car and truck rentals, catering services, off-dutypolice, security services, hotel accommodations, and location fees,” the news release stated. “This influx of activity provided a boost to El Paso’s event, creative and service sectors, reinforcing the city’s growing reputation as a film-friendly destination.”
“One Battle After Another,” directed by Paul Anderson, was released in theaters Sept. 26. Not all the scenes were shot in El Paso — filming began in January 2024 in California, according to Variety. The production was rumored to cost upwards of $100 million, with the most recent estimate reaching $140 million, Variety reported.
Natassia Paloma may be reached at npaloma@gannett.com, @NatassiaPaloma on X, natassia_paloma on Instagram, and Natassia Paloma on Facebook.
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This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Leonardo DiCaprio movie brings millions into El Paso economy