Oklahoma’s film industry was proudly represented by a number of productions closing domestic and worldwide distribution deals at the 2017 American Film Market (AFM), the world’s largest motion picture business event. Over 7,000 industry leaders from more than 80 countries across the globe converged in Santa Monica, California for eight days of deal-making, conferences, screenings and networking.
Productions made in Oklahoma utilizing the Oklahoma Film Enhancement Rebate Program were among this year’s AFM selections, including “I Can Only Imagine”, “Christmas in the Heartland”, “Te Ata” and “The Jurassic Games”. Lionsgate, Roadside Attractions, Gravitas Ventures, Paladin and High Octane Pictures are among the production companies representing the domestic releases of these films.
Since the ten-year renewal of the Oklahoma Film Enhancement Rebate Program by the State Legislature in 2014, the state’s film industry has experienced unprecedented growth with direct expenditures for film related labor, goods and services increasing by nearly 1200%. A record-setting 14 productions filmed around the state spending a combined total of over $33.6 million dollars during fiscal year 17.
“Oklahoma’s film industry has never been more strongly represented at the AFM since the renewal of our state’s incentive program,” said Oklahoma Film + Music Office Director Tava Maloy Sofsky. “The diversity of represented films which includes faith-based, holiday, action and Native American productions is a testament to the endless storytelling opportunities Oklahoma’s diverse locations and local talent can provide filmmakers. Our agency alongside our state legislature, community leaders, and film industry members has worked hard to establish Oklahoma as a viable hub for film production, and our representation at AFM is evidence that we will continue to reap the positive economic impacts of filmmaking in the state by maintaining our incentive program.”
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About the Oklahoma Film + Music Office:
Created in 1979, The Oklahoma Film + Music Office strives to share all that Oklahoma has to offer by welcoming filmmakers and music professionals to the state and by creating a network of support to develop Oklahoma’s film and music industries. For more information about the Oklahoma Film Enhancement Rebate Program or the Oklahoma Film + Music Office please visit okfilmmusic.orglink.
