Ahead of the theatrical release of the film “Reagan,” Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt commemorated the biopic’s impact issuing a proclamation declaring August 30, 2024, as “Reagan Film Day” in Oklahoma. The film, which stars Dennis Quaid in the titular role of the American icon, is the first full-length, feature film on the 40th U.S. President to open exclusively in theatres.
“It is my honor to issue this proclamation in recognition of the film ‘Reagan’ and the incredible moviemakers and talent who brought this production to life in our state,” said Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt. “The release of this film not only honors a true American hero who exemplifies many of the same values we hold dear in Oklahoma, but its production in our state further champions the state’s film, television and music industries, which bring with it significant economic impact and benefits for Oklahomans.”
Utilizing the state’s film incentive program, the film “Reagan” had a significant impact throughout its production in Oklahoma, resulting in over $22 million in direct spend and creating 1,103 local career opportunities. Produced by Rawhide Pictures and MJM Entertainment, the production was primarily lensed in the film friendly certified City of Guthrie, where iconic locations like the Dominion House and Scottish Rites Masonic Temple were transformed into international and national sites around the world, including the White House.
“I look forward to Guthrie getting a moment in the spotlight as the film location for ‘Reagan’ when the movie premieres in theaters,” said Senator Chuck Hall, R-Perry. “The decision to produce this star-studded biopic in Oklahoma is a testament to the state’s growing film and television industry and proof that our film incentive program brings economic prosperity to many rural communities. I’m grateful city leaders and Guthrie residents rolled out the red carpet to welcome one of the state’s largest movie productions in a continuing show of support for making Oklahoma a film friendly state.”
“During their time in Guthrie, we really felt like the ‘Reagan’ production became part of our community,” said Guthrie City Manager Eddie Faulkner. “We’re thankful they chose Guthrie to film the movie about the legendary President Ronald Reagan. The cast and crew were great neighbors, and the whole city has been anxiously waiting to see it on the big screen.”
“Reagan” includes music from Oklahoma duo The Imaginaries; post-production services from local companies such as Boiling Point Media; and an extensive roster of on-screen local talent, including Rachel Cannon, Randy Wayne, Darci Lynne, Robert Peters and Skip Schwink, among others.
“It’s been an exciting summer at the movies as ‘Reagan’ is the latest theatrical release to shine a spotlight on Oklahoma’s film, television and music industries,” said Oklahoma Film + Music Office Director Jeanette Stanton. “We’re grateful for the positive impact the film has had thus far and will continue to have as we work to create a climate for future opportunities for our state’s workforce, infrastructure, small businesses, communities and more that benefit from film production in our state.”
Directed by veteran filmmaker Sean McNamara (“Soul Surfer”), “Reagan” serves as the debut release from the recently launched studio ShowBiz Direct. In addition to Quaid, the film boasts a stellar cast, including Academy Award® Winner Jon Voight, Golden Globe Nominee Penelope Ann Miller, BAFTA nominee Mena Suvari, Emmy Award & Golden Globe Award Nominee Kevin Dillon and Disney Star David Henrie.
For more information on the film, visit Reagan.movie.
For more information on Oklahoma’s film infrastructure, workforce and other resources, visit okfilmmusic.org.
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About the Oklahoma Film + Music Office
Under the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, the Oklahoma Film + Music Office (OF+MO) works to promote the state as a viable hub for film, television and music production as well as further develop opportunities for workforce, business and community growth within these sectors. For more information on the Oklahoma Film + Music Office, including the state’s film incentives and additional resources, visit okfilmmusic.org.