Apache Movie Studio Taking Shape in Cochise County
DOUGLAS- A new chapter for independent filmmaking is unfolding in Southern Arizona as Apache Movie Studio begins development inside a historic World War II-era hangar at the Bisbee-Douglas International Airport along Highway 191.
The project is led by Bobby and Toni Morton, co-owners of Rancho Relaxo Films, who are transforming the long-abandoned structure into a functional, modern soundstage designed to support independent filmmakers from across the region.
Though relatively new to the film industry, the Mortons have quickly identified the challenges that come with independent production particularly when it comes to filming on location. Over the past three years, their experience has highlighted the logistical and environmental difficulties of shooting outdoors in the desert Southwest. Extreme heat, unpredictable weather, lighting inconsistencies, and tight time constraints often complicate production schedules and impact the final product.
Those challenges ultimately led to a realization: Southern Arizona needed an accessible, controlled filming environment.
The idea for the studio traces back several years, when the couple first came across the airport hangars while traveling through the area. Drawn by both the structure and its aviation history, they explored the site and later revisited the idea when searching for a location to build or lease a soundstage. After connecting with Cochise County officials and airport representatives, the concept gained support and began moving forward.
The hangar itself carries historical significance, having been used during World War II as a training site for bomber crews. Today, it is being reimagined as a creative production space while preserving its connection to the past.
Once complete, Apache Movie Studio will offer a versatile layout tailored to a variety of production needs. Plans include a front-of-house area for makeup, wardrobe, and administrative use, along with multiple production zones inside the hangar. Among the most prominent features will be a large cyclorama wall capable of supporting green screen or white screen filming, allowing filmmakers to digitally create environments and backgrounds.
Additional space will be dedicated to traditional set construction, where productions can build interior scenes using movable flats similar to those used in classic studio filmmaking. With high ceilings and ample square footage, the facility is designed to accommodate everything from short films and music videos to full-length features.
The studio will operate primarily as a rental space rather than a full-service production company. While the Mortons will continue producing their own films under Rancho Relaxo Films, the facility itself will provide space for other independent creators. Filmmakers will have the flexibility to rent only the portion of the studio they need, whether that is a small controlled environment or the entire soundstage.
In addition to offering space, the studio aims to support productions by connecting them with local resources, including set designers, actors, and other industry professionals. While not directly providing production services, the goal is to help foster a network that strengthens filmmaking opportunities in the region.
Toni Morton plays a key role in the studio’s operations, focusing on logistics, coordination, and administrative support. Her responsibilities include managing contracts, organizing resources, and ensuring productions have what they need to run smoothly. During in-house productions, she is also involved in continuity, wardrobe, and overall production flow.
The decision to establish the studio in Cochise County reflects a broader opportunity within Arizona’s film industry. While larger production facilities are concentrated in the Phoenix area, Southern Arizona has remained largely underserved despite its unique landscapes and growing interest from filmmakers. State-level incentives and cross-border collaboration opportunities with Mexico further highlight the region’s potential as a filmmaking destination. Apache Movie Studio is positioned to help fill that gap by providing an affordable, flexible alternative for independent creators.
The name of the studio reflects the history of the region, which is deeply rooted in Apache heritage. The surrounding area, including landmarks such as Cochise Stronghold, plays an important role in the cultural and historical identity of Cochise County. The Mortons view the name as a tribute to that legacy.
Initial production at the studio is expected to begin this summer, starting with a reshoot for the Mortons’ film Circuit Preacher. Following that, the facility will open for rentals, with plans to expand its digital presence through a redesigned website and active social media outreach.
Bobby Morton brings a diverse professional background to the project, including service in the U.S. Navy, a career in law enforcement, and extensive experience in healthcare as a doctor of nursing practice and university professor. He currently works in travelling medical roles while continuing to develop film projects. Toni Morton contributes a strong organizational and operational presence, helping guide both the business and creative aspects of the studio.
Originally from Maine, where they raised their family, the couple relocated to Arizona and have since focused on building their film making endeavours from the ground up.
With Apache Movie Studio, they are not only creating a space for their own work but also laying the foundation for a growing creative community in Southern Arizona.
Mia Longoria
Cochise County Voice
Updates
April 9, 2026 – Demolition at the Apache Movie Studio is complete. The massive roof of the building has been cleaned, repaired, and coated. The production and office spaces have been framed in and the electrical contractor will be getting it wired next week.
We will be wrapping up production on The Circuit Preacher short film on May 26, 2026. This will be the saloon scene and the very first production to utilize the sound stage at the Apache Movie Studio. This date is also significant as it is John Wayne’s birthday.
