Oklahoma City has officially been certified as a film-friendly city by the Oklahoma Film + Music Office (OF+MO), establishing it as a key player in the state’s growing film and television industry.

“Oklahoma City is proud to be officially designated as a film-friendly community,” Mayor David Holt said. “We are the capital of film for this state, and we remain enthusiastic about growing this industry.” Holt noted the economic impact of film productions, mentioning that Twisters alone spent $42.6 million in Oklahoma City, with a total economic impact exceeding $200 million. “When films come to Oklahoma City, they create jobs and support local businesses,” he added.

The OF+MO certifies cities that show strong support for film production. This includes having a film liaison, a clear permitting process and a visible presence in the online Oklahoma locations directory. Yousef Kazemi, outreach and production manager at OF+MO, explained that Oklahoma City’s long-standing support for film and television production has attracted global attention. “Oklahoma City’s support has shown the entertainment industry that our state is a great place for filmmakers,” Kazemi said, acknowledging the leadership that has helped make the city a key destination for film projects.

In 2022, Oklahoma City and the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber created the Oklahoma City Film and Creative Industries Office. The office helps recruit film projects, offers location support, manages the city’s film incentive program and connects productions with local resources. 

“Thanks to Oklahoma City’s strong support for the film and television production industry, we are now home to both virtual and live-action studios, the only Dolby Atmos mixing room in this part of the country, and a crew base skilled in everything from digital visual effects and animation to traditional production and post-production,” Oklahoma City Film and Creative Industries Office Executive Director Jill Simpson said. “Our incentive program poises us to recruit and support a wide range of projects as we continue to build a home-grown entertainment industry right here in Oklahoma City.”

The city is already home to several production studios, including Filmmaker’s Ranch, Boiling Point Media, Apex Post OKC and One Set Studio. These studios, along with the growing infrastructure and skilled workforce, position Oklahoma City as a strong location for both large-scale and independent productions.

Oklahoma City’s film culture is also notable. The city hosts the deadCenter Film Festival, the state’s largest film festival, which is one of only 27 festivals globally with Oscar®-qualifying status in all three short film categories. Celebrating its 25th year in 2024, deadCenter has been recognized as one of the “20 Coolest Film Festivals in the World” by MovieMaker Magazine and as one of FilmFreeway’s “Top 100 Rated Film Festivals.”

In addition to the festival, Oklahoma City Community College was named one of the top 30 best film schools in the U.S. and Canada by MovieMaker Magazine in 2024. This recognition adds to the city’s growing reputation as a center for film education and training.

Several notable productions have filmed in Oklahoma City since 2021, including Twisters, Tulsa King, Jurassic Pet, What Rhymes with Reason and American Underdog. These films, along with a range of television shows and reality series, demonstrate the city’s appeal as a location for a variety of media projects.

The film-friendly certification marks a significant milestone for Oklahoma City as it continues to grow its film and creative industries. With more productions coming to the city, Oklahoma City’s role as a destination for filmmakers is expected to expand, bringing continued economic benefits and supporting the city’s ongoing development.