The Oklahoma Effect: Why Hollywood Is Still Falling for the Sooner State

Oklahoma’s reputation as a hub for film and television production is well established. The state has attracted numerous major productions in recent years, but what does its success say about the shifting landscape of American production? One key factor driving Oklahoma’s appeal is its generous stackable tax incentive system, which allows local jurisdictions to offer their own incentives on top of the state’s 20 percent base rebate.

This competitive advantage has been a major draw for productions looking to save costs. According to Jeanette Stanton, director of the Film + Music Office, Oklahoma’s fast payout system is another significant benefit. “We get a ton of compliments on the people here and the crew here… our locations are very surprised at what they can find here,” she notes.

Oklahoma’s diversity and versatility also set it apart from other production locations. The state has 12 distinct eco-regions, ranging from desert landscapes to forests and urban centers. This allows filmmakers to easily double as a wide range of locations, from the Wild West to modern-day cities.

While Oklahoma’s appeal is undeniable, it’s worth considering the broader context of the American film industry. With Hollywood facing increased competition from international markets and shifting production trends towards verticals and streaming, what does this mean for the future of American production? Local partnerships and collaborations between state film offices and regional stakeholders are emerging as a key trend.

Oklahoma’s successful relationship with the Cherokee Film Commission demonstrates the value of these partnerships in attracting and retaining productions. The commission offers its own incentives on top of the state’s base rebate, creating a competitive advantage for the state.

In addition to its tax incentives and local partnerships, Oklahoma is also investing in building a long-term workforce for the industry. According to Stanton, “That provides long-term workforce for the crew here, it has a great economic impact affecting the whole state as well as small cities all over the state.” This commitment to supporting local talent and infrastructure is crucial for states looking to establish themselves as major players in the film industry.

Oklahoma’s growing reputation for diversity and inclusivity is also worth noting. With a diverse range of locations and a supportive industry community, the state is proving itself to be an attractive destination for filmmakers from underrepresented backgrounds. “We want to help [independent producers] save every dollar… we’re trying to make it as easy as possible for them,” Stanton says.

As Hollywood continues to evolve and adapt to changing trends and technologies, Oklahoma’s example offers valuable lessons. By investing in local partnerships, workforce development, and diversity initiatives, states like Oklahoma are showing that there’s still a place for American production in the global industry. With its unique blend of landscapes, infrastructure, and incentives, the Sooner State is firmly established as one of the top destinations for filmmakers looking to bring their visions to life.

However, as the film industry continues to evolve, challenges on the horizon are becoming increasingly apparent. With studios becoming increasingly fickle in their choices and international markets growing more competitive, can Oklahoma continue to maintain its appeal? How will other states respond to the state’s success story?

One thing is clear: Oklahoma’s effect on the film industry is far from over. As we watch the state continue to attract major productions and build a thriving local ecosystem, one question remains – what will be the next chapter in this ongoing saga?