Imperial County Film Commission

08/19/2026

🎬 THROWBACK THURSDAY
📍 Filmed in Imperial County

This week, we're taking a look back at War Dogs (2016), released August 19, 2016.

Starring Jonah Hill, Miles Teller, Ana de Armas, and Bradley Cooper, this dark comedy, inspired by true events, brought Hollywood to Imperial County, with portions of the film shot in the spectacular Imperial Sand Dunes.

Our unique desert landscapes have doubled as locations around the world, making Imperial County one of California's most distinctive filming destinations. Every production that films here becomes part of our community's rich cinematic history.

🎥 Did you know? The Imperial Sand Dunes have appeared in dozens of feature films, television shows, commercials, and music videos over the years, making them one of Hollywood's favorite natural backdrops.

🍿 If you're looking for a movie night this week, revisit War Dogs and see if you recognize the scenery!

Have you seen War Dogs? Share your favorite scene in the comments!

08/10/2026

Former U.S Rep. Ben Jones, best known for his role in "The Dukes of Hazzard," has died at age 84. "I lost the love of my life," his wife wrote: http://www.kare11.com/article/news/nation-world/ben-jones-dukes-of-hazzard-actor-died/507-a931b20c-7451-4359-ac7c-da5a0a13f8d5?utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook_KARE_11

(AP Photo/Steve Helber)

08/01/2026

Vincent Pastore, the actor who played Salvatore Bonpensiero on "The Sopranos," has died. http://www.kare11.com/article/news/nation-world/the-sopranos-vincent-pastore-dies/507-52f66e71-a2d1-47a2-8146-67fc7a27425c?utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook_KARE_11 (Evan Agostini/Invision/AP)

07/16/2026

Hal Williams, the actor known for his roles on sitcoms like "Sanford and Son" and "227," has died at age 91: http://www.kare11.com/article/news/nation-world/hal-williams-sanford-and-son/507-b1ab40c6-47ee-4a82-84c4-d51db09578e8?utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook_KARE_11

(Photo by Vince Bucci/Invision for the Television Academy/AP Images)

07/13/2026

Sam Neill, the amiable and adventurous leading man who emerged from New Zealand to make his mark in such films as 'Jurassic Park,' 'The Piano,' 'Dead Calm,' 'In the Mouth of Madness' and so much more, has died. He was 78.

07/10/2026

What you need to know: Since Governor Newsom’s historic expansion of the Film & T.V. Tax Credit program, the state has awarded 170 projects, including 41 new fi

07/04/2026

07/03/2026

🎬🌵 Throwback Thursday: Tank Girl (1995) 🌵🎬

Looking for something a little different to watch while staying cool in the A/C this holiday weekend? Pop on the cult classic Tank Girl, starring Lori Petty!

Did you know that portions of this post-apocalyptic adventure were filmed right here in the Sand Dunes of Imperial County? 🎥 Our iconic dunes have served as the backdrop for countless movies over the years, and Tank Girl is one more title in the Valley's rich filmmaking history.

From towering sand dunes to unforgettable movie moments, the Imperial Valley continues to leave its mark on the silver screen.

🍿 Turn down the thermostat, turn up the nostalgia, and enjoy a cinematic adventure that has a connection to our own backyard!

Have you seen Tank Girl? Tell us what you think in the comments! 👇

06/30/2026