Jeanette Stanton, the Director of the Oklahoma Film+Music Office, has shed light on the allure of Oklahoma's film incentives. These incentives have played a significant role in attracting various film projects, such as the Oscar-nominated "Killers of the Flower Moon" and the Glen Powell-led "Twisters." Stanton emphasizes that the incentive piece is a crucial part of the business model for production, as it allows filmmakers to get the best value for their money while also considering location, story, and creative needs.

Texas: The New Hollywood Hot Spot

Texas is emerging as a major player in the film industry, powered by generous tax incentives and a booming studio infrastructure. Series like "Yellowstone" and its spinoffs have been filmed in Texas, attracting major stars like Matthew McConaughey, Dennis Quaid, and Glen Powell. Reputation Management Consultants CEO Eric Schiffer highlights the state's appeal, stating that filmmakers are flocking to Texas due to these incentives. Taylor Sheridan and Dennis Quaid have both testified in support of additional incentives, emphasizing the need to hire local talent and develop the filmmaking industry within the state.

Dennis Quaid believes that Texas is a better choice for young actors compared to Hollywood. He points out that Atlanta offers more opportunities for smaller roles, and Texas has the potential to become a major film capital. George Lane from the Texas Attorney General's office emphasizes the efforts of Taylor Sheridan and Dennis Quaid in cultivating relationships with statewide elected officials to promote Texas filmmaking. The state's stories and infrastructure are attracting both filmmakers and audiences, creating a sustainable industry.

Other actors, like Billy Bob Thornton in "Landman," are also contributing to Texas' film boom. The state's diverse landscapes and business-friendly environment make it an attractive destination for filmmakers looking to create heartland-based stories.

Oklahoma: Taking on Hollywood with Financial Incentives

Oklahoma's film incentives have been successful in enticing major productions. Stanton highlights the competitiveness of these incentives, which include cash rebates, grants, and tax credits. "Twisters" was filmed in Oklahoma this year, following the success of the 1996 original. Stanton explains that filmmakers consider factors such as the best bang for their buck and the availability of infrastructure when choosing a filming location.

The real-life story of "Killers of the Flower Moon" was almost not filmed in Oklahoma due to incentives in New Mexico. However, Stanton emphasizes that the state's unique setting and the talent available made it the perfect place for the film. The story's connection to Oklahoma added authenticity and depth to the production.

Like Texas, Oklahoma offers crew members the opportunity to raise families and enjoy a better quality of life. The state's hospitality and resources have received many compliments from out-of-state filmmakers.

Utah: A Growing Film Production Hub

Kevin Costner's "Horizon: An American Saga" series has been filmed in Utah, doubling for locations in Wyoming, New Mexico, and Montana. Costner believes that Utah's wide open spaces and fabulous Western look are ideal for his films. The state offers a refundable tax credit of up to 25% on in-state spending for approved projects, attracting more productions.

Utah has become a hub for holiday filming, with movies like "Best. Christmas. Ever!" and "Falling for Christmas" being shot there. Virginia Pearce from the Utah Film Commission highlights the ease of setting up productions and the state's established infrastructure as reasons for filmmakers' choice. Knox predicts that the trend of production moving out of California is here to stay, and states like Utah are well-positioned to benefit from increased production needs.

With the success of these states in challenging Hollywood's dominance, it is clear that the film industry is undergoing a significant shift. Incentives, location, and story are all playing crucial roles in determining where films are made, and these states are proving that they have what it takes to compete with the industry's traditional powerhouses.