Members of Oklahoma’s film industry will meet with legislative leaders to advocate for continued growth
Tulsa, Okla. | 4.19.22 — The Oklahoma Motion Picture Alliance (OKMPA), in conjunction with the Oklahoma Film + Music Office, is hosting Oklahoma Film Day at the Capitol for legislators on April 20, 2022.
Meetings and demonstrations will be held on Wed. from 2 -7 p.m. at the Oklahoma History Center, located across from the Oklahoma State Capitol at 800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive in Oklahoma City. The event is come-and-go, and open to legislators, staff members and industry members interested in discussing the economic impact of film and TV, and learning about the wide range of companies operating throughout Oklahoma.
“Oklahoma’s film industry has experienced tremendous growth, creating great jobs and economic development in an exciting industry,” said Jennifer Loren, acting chairman of the OKMPA and Director of the Cherokee Nation Film Office. “Thanks to state leaders and the bipartisan support of recent increases to Oklahoma’s film rebate program, the industry is paying attention to Oklahoma. Over the last few years, Oklahoma has transitioned from a flyover state to a fly-to-state.”
Legislative updates will occur from 3-5 p.m. Representative Scott Fetgatter will speak about the importance of the film industry, followed by Tava Maloy Sofsky, Director of the Oklahoma Film + Music Office, who will report on the economic impact that film creates in the state. Senator Chuck Hall will provide remarks at approximately 5 p.m.
“The Filmed in Oklahoma Act of 2021 raised the annual film incentive to $30 million and led to more local jobs, more investment from the private sector, and created the framework to support our growing industry by increasing the number of productions coming to Oklahoma,” said Tava Maloy Sofsky, Oklahoma Film + Music Office Director.
The OKMPA reports current projects in Oklahoma include Sylvester Stallone and Taylor Sheridan’s Tulsa King and Sterlin Harjo and Taika Waititi’s Reservation Dogs series. Last year, Martin Scorsese, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Robert DeNiro were in Oklahoma to film Killers of the Flower Moon and Zachary Levi and Anna Paquin were in Oklahoma to film American Underdog. The 2021 Oscar-winning film Minari was also filmed in Oklahoma, along with several small budget, locally-produced projects.
“More than $260 million was infused into our state’s economy by more than 135 films and television shows that utilized the state’s film rebate program since 2015. These productions impacted at least 130 cities in more than 50 counties across Oklahoma, creating more than 20,000 career opportunities for Oklahomans,” Sofsky added. “We are looking forward to engaging with industry professionals at Film Day at the Capitol this year, as it remains crucial for state and local government to collaborate with stakeholders as more investments are made to sustain this fast-growing industry.”
Through its programs and activities, OKMPA educates its members, legislators, and the general public on all forms of motion picture and media production and the tremendous economic impact generated throughout Oklahoma. Through advocacy and outreach, the OKMPA worked with the Oklahoma Legislature last session to expand the film incentive, helping to attract more production to the state.
“As production continues to increase, it is necessary for the local film industry to collaborate on sustainable growth that supports our local economy, jobs and provides the maximum benefit to Oklahoma taxpayers,” Loren added.
During the event, members of the film industry will showcase their work. Sponsors include Boiling Point, Castle Row, Cherokee Nation Film Office, Freestyle Creative, Green Pastures Studios and Prairie Surf Media.
About OKMPA
In 2021 the Oklahoma Motion Picture Alliance was established to serve the film, television, video, interactive, and digital media production industry in Oklahoma. OKMPA represents a community of motion picture professionals, representing businesses and a workforce exceeding 350 people across the state. OKMPA serves as a leading industry advocate for legislative and regulatory development seeking economic incentives and public support for Oklahoma’s motion picture work and investment. More information is available at www.okmpa.com.
