Why Oklahoma is the Perfect Place to Make Movies

When I moved to Tulsa this year, I knew it was a creative hotbed, but I didn’t realize just how perfect it was for filmmakers. I recently shot a feature-length movie here in early 2024, and let me tell you, I was floored—not just by the jaw-dropping talent and resources, but also by how much the state and local communities want you to succeed.

Here’s the thing: Oklahoma doesn’t just love movies; it invests in them. The state offers a rebate program that gives up to 38% cash back on qualified production expenses. That’s like finding a cheat code for filmmaking. Then there’s the Cherokee Nation, stepping in with their own incentive program offering up to 25% back for productions shot in their jurisdiction. Pair those with local programs in Tulsa and Oklahoma City, and you’ve got a trifecta of filmmaker heaven.

And I’m not just talking dollars and cents (though let’s be honest, those incentives help). The people here are next-level supportive. Every week, I meet someone who used to live in LA or New York and moved here to work in film. The talent pool is legit, and the best part? Businesses are eager to help out. Need a cool location? Done. Props? Someone’s got a stash. Craft services? Let’s just say you’re gonna eat well.

The vibe here takes me back to the early 2000s, when I was creating digital shorts for Turner Studios in Atlanta. Back then, Atlanta was just starting to become a film hub. Forgotten neighborhoods were turning into breweries, design firms, and creative spaces. Homes were cheap (ah, memories), and the whole city felt like it was on the brink of something massive. That’s exactly what’s happening in Tulsa and Oklahoma City right now. Houses are affordable (for now), but in 10 years, you’ll be kicking yourself for not getting in while you could. Trust me, I’ve seen this movie before, and the ending is all about growth.

For those wondering, I’ve filmed in other places—Boise, Idaho, for example. I had some great successes there, but let’s be real: Boise’s film scene is mostly about making movies for your friends to watch. There are no state incentives, and the industry mindset doesn’t stretch much beyond its borders. Compare that to Oklahoma, where there’s a real push to build an industry that can rival Hollywood. The talent and resources here are every bit as good as what you’ll find in LA, without the traffic (or the outrageous rent).

Now, I’ve got two more films lined up to shoot in the next few months, and I couldn’t be more pumped. Getting these projects off the ground has been ridiculously easy because of all the support here. I feel like I’ve landed in the right place at the right time.

So, here’s my pitch: if you’re a filmmaker wondering where to plant your camera, come to Oklahoma. You’ll find incredible talent, generous incentives, and a community that genuinely wants you to succeed. Plus, you’ll get to say, “I was here before it became the next big thing.”

Tulsa feels like a city on the verge of greatness, and I’m thrilled to be part of it. Let’s make some movies!