AUSTIN (KXAN) — The Library of Congress National Film Registry added 25 films in 2024 for their cultural, historic, or aesthetic importance, according to a Tuesday announcement from the federal institution. Three of those have strong ties to Texas.
The selections date back almost 130 years, with their release dates ranging from 1895 to 2010. According to the Library of Congress, the National Film Registry selects 25 films each year to showcase the “range and diversity of American film heritage to increase awareness for its preservation.”
More than 6,700 titles were submitted by the public this year for consideration to be added to the registry, per the Library of Congress.
Of the 25 that made the registry, three were either set or filmed in Texas, or both.
The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)
“The Texas Chain Saw Massacre” celebrated its 50th birthday this year. The horror film was released in October 1974 after being filmed in Central Texas towns including Bastrop, Round Rock, Leander and Watterson, according to the film’s IMDb page.
The horror cult classic is about a group of friends who attempt to escape a serial killer named “Leatherface” while on a road trip in rural Texas. The film amassed quite a following and has since created a franchise of films that has spanned across multiple generations.
City of Austin leaders commemorated the movie’s milestone anniversary a few months ago, with a proclamation declaring Oct. 11, 2024 “Texas Chain Saw Massacre Day” in Austin.
Spy Kids (2001)
“Spy Kids” is another of Austin’s most famous films and the first in a highly successful franchise. It follows the story of two young kids who become spies when their ex-super spy parents are kidnapped by evil masterminds.
Visit Austin described details of the film, including where in Austin some of the notable scenes were filmed. The Hotel Belen scene was shot at the Omni Hotel downtown (700 E. Eighth St.), and the Machete Spy Shop scene took place at what is now Black Brick Real Estate, which was at the time the Natiivo Austin Real Estate Agency (219 W. Fourth St.), according to Visit Austin.
The Library of Congress noted that “Spy Kids” underscores the importance of familial bonds and cultural heritage through its plot, “adding depth and authenticity to the story,” the library’s announcement said. It’s also one of five films selected this year that included prominent Hispanic artists or themes, according to the Library of Congress.
No Country for Old Men (2007)
The plot of “No Country for Old Men” takes place in the Texas desert near the Mexico–United States border and follows the aftermath of a drug deal gone wrong. According to IMDb, it was filmed in Marfa and Big Bend National Park, as well as in several locations in New Mexico and Mexico.
There are some other noteworthy facts about this year’s selection, that don’t necessarily relate to Texas, that we thought were worth mentioning:
- This year’s selection of 25 films included what is widely considered to be the first independent feature-length film directed by a Black woman. The film “Will” (1981) was directed by Jessie Maple, a trailblazing cinematographer and director.
- Five films included prominent Hispanic artists or themes, including “American Me,” “Mi Familia,” “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan,” “Spy Kids” and “Up in Smoke.”
- The first Star Trek film to make the registry was added this year; “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan” (1982).
There are now 900 titles in the registry including this year’s additions, according to the Library of Congress. Some of them are among the two million moving image collection items held in the Library of Congress, and others are preserved in coordination with copyright holders or other film archives.
View the full list or read more information about each film on the Library of Congress website.