Based outside of Newalla, Oklahoma, Chris Hoyt works as the VFX producer at Boiling Point Media. He has also worked as 1st AD, producer, VFX artist and writer for Boiling Point and various other production companies. Previous production credits include “Army of Frankensteins,” “The Jurassic Games,” “The Adventures of Jurassic Pet,” “Adventures of Rufus,” “Ghoster” and “Guardians of Time” to name a few.
How did you get started in the film industry?
I have always had an interest in storytelling. At first, through my music, then in college my brother and I along with a friend, had a short-lived public access show. I studied marketing in college, because I didn’t think I could make a good living in the arts. In 2010, I found out “The Killer Inside Me” was going to film in my hometown. I ended up getting a small part. I decided to see what else was out there. I got small parts here and there, but the turning point was about 10 years ago when I got a small part in “Army of Frankensteins.” I had such a good time on set, I wanted to help Ryan Bellgardt, Josh McKamie and Andy Swanson make it. I loved helping produce it so much that I kept doing it and I have been with them ever since.
At some point, I wrote a screenplay for fun. Ryan read it and recommended I could write a script for our sales rep because Ryan didn’t have time as he was in the process of writing the script for “The Jurassic Games.” Our sales rep loved my script and recommended me to another production company. I have been writing scripts and doing script revisions for our own projects and for others continually since my first screenplay was produced. I didn’t set out to be a writer. I just went through the door that opened.
Did you have any formal education or training related to the film industry before starting?
The training I received was what I learned about making a public access show at first. Then I would watch the crew when I was an actor then when I started producing I really got to get hands-on. I have also worked in almost every position on set, which I think helps me understand the full process and challenges of each department.
Did you have any formal education or training related to your specific department on-set?
Nope. Hands-on. I am continually learning new things with every project.
What are some of your most recent successes (credits or accolades) related to your career in the industry?
I wrote, produced and co-directed “The Adventures of Jurassic Pet: The Lost Secret,” which will be distributed by Lionsgate.
What has your career in the state’s film industry taught you?
Any movie can be made in Oklahoma. We have the locations, crew, actors, expertise and the newest tech to make it happen.
What is the highlight of your career thus far?
Co-directing “The Adventures of Jurassic Pet: The Lost Secret” with my buddy, Ryan Bellgardt.
What is your favorite aspect of working in Oklahoma’s film and television industry?
I don’t have to move from Oklahoma to do what I love. Also, in every town and city we film, most of the residents and business owners I come in contact with are excited about what is happening and will do everything they can to help us. It becomes a town event.
What’s the best piece of advice you have for someone starting their career in Oklahoma’s film industry?
Your career in film is what you choose to make of it. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. You are never too old to start. Create, collaborate, and don’t stop when someone tells you “no.”
How does someone in your field/department best promote/market themselves to those hiring in your industry?
First, register in the Oklahoma Film and Music Production Directory. Second, networking. Get on set, and offer to help.
Are there any local film organizations, resources or events that have been beneficial to you in your career?
deadcenter was great when I was first starting out. I also participated in the 48 Film Project. I met a lot of people and got to see what others were making. It is a great place to network and find like-minded people.
What’s the one item you can’t live without on-set, and why?
My backpack. It’s my mobile everything. I keep my script, contact information for the shoot, sunscreen, hat, meds, first aid kit, battery backup charger for my cell, and some protein bars.
Would your career be impacted without the state’s film incentive program? If so, how?
Somewhat. Some of the projects I have worked on would have gone elsewhere if they were not awarded a film rebate. And others don’t care about the rebate. Our (Boiling Point Media) history of VFX/CG work brings clients in from all over the world. They care about quality instead of the rebate. So, yes and no.
Where do you see yourself – AND – Oklahoma’s film industry in the next five years?
I see the industry growing as long as we continue to show everyone what Oklahoma and Oklahomans can do. And I will be a part of it.
What are you working on now or next?
Finishing up “Adventures of Jurassic Pet: The Lost Secret” to deliver to Lionsgate before the end of the year. I am also working as the VFX Producer at Boiling Point Media on many VFX/CG projects from various production companies throughout the world.
Each featured individual or business is given the provided questions to answer in their own voice. Other than formatting and grammar, the answers are personal to each featured voice, and are not provided by the Oklahoma Film + Music Office.