Cherokee Nation’s Film Industry Boom: A New Era for Oklahoma’s Creative Scene
The Rise of Local Productions
In an inspiring effort to cultivate the burgeoning TV and film sector in northeast Oklahoma, the Cherokee Nation has made significant strides this fall. Several exciting projects, supported by inventive incentives, have premiered, marking a turning point in the region’s cinematic landscape. Notably, these productions have injected over $3.6 million into the Cherokee Nation Reservation, creating job opportunities for 149 Native Americans throughout various phases including development, production, and post-production.
A Trailblazing Film Incentive Program
The Cherokee Nation proudly holds the title of the first tribe to establish its film incentive, which kicked off in 2022. This pioneering initiative can be combined with the state of Oklahoma’s existing film incentive, alongside additional support from the Tulsa Office of Film, Music, Arts and Culture. “The purpose of our film incentive is to help bring film and TV productions to our region, to utilize our resources and to hire our workforce,” stated Jen Loren, Senior Director of Cherokee Film. The program’s success is evident in the noticeable economic impact on the reservation, not just within the film sector but broader local industries as well.
Upcoming Feature: “Sarah’s Oil”
On November 7, audiences will be treated to the compelling tale of “Sarah’s Oil,” produced by Amazon MGM Studios. The story unfolds the real-life journey of Sarah Rector, an African-American girl who, at just 11 years old, transformed a seemingly worthless land allotment into a fortune through the discovery of oil. The film is set against the backdrop of early 1900s Indian Country, and it highlights the indomitable spirit of a young girl facing seemingly insurmountable odds.
Featuring a star-studded cast that includes Zachary Levi and Sonequa Martin-Green, “Sarah’s Oil” is poised to be the largest production to leverage the Cherokee Film incentive to date. Producer John Shepherd emphasized the importance of Oklahoma as an ideal filming location, thanks to its top-ranking film-friendly environment. He remarked, “Thanks to the generous support of proactive partners like Cherokee Film, I rank Oklahoma first as well. We had everything we needed to make this project a success.”
Diverse Storytelling Through Multiple Productions
In addition to “Sarah’s Oil,” other notable productions have emerged from the region this fall. Rebellium Films, a local production company, has benefitted from the Cherokee Nation’s incentive program for three of its upcoming titles. Their coming-of-age comedy-drama, “Everything to Me,” had a limited theatrical debut on September 5 and is now available for streaming on Apple TV, further showcasing the rich storytelling potential of Oklahoma filmmakers.
Additionally, film enthusiasts can look forward to “Cottonmouth,” a western thriller set in 1895 Indian Territory, premiering for streaming on November 4 via Apple TV, Prime Video, and Google Play. “The Beldham,” a psychological horror film exploring themes of motherhood and intergenerational trauma, will launch on November 7, also across popular streaming platforms.
Cherokee Film’s Structural Vision
Cherokee Film, a division of Cherokee Nation Businesses, operates from within the Cherokee Nation Reservation and encompasses four key branches: Cherokee Film Productions, Cherokee Film Studios, Cherokee Film Commission, and Cherokee Film Institute. Together, these entities work harmoniously toward the shared goal of amplifying narrative sovereignty and promoting economic development within the tribe’s territory.
The collaborative spirit within the film community is aimed at not only enhancing local job opportunities but also creating a distinct narrative identity that resonates with both Indigenous and non-Indigenous audiences. The ongoing projects are just the tip of the iceberg, serving as clear evidence of the positive momentum stemming from Cherokee Nation’s commitment to building a sustainable film ecosystem.
A Bright Future for Oklahoma’s Film Scene
As more films are produced, the ripple effect is expected to foster a thriving industry in northeast Oklahoma. With the cohesive efforts of the Cherokee Nation and local filmmakers, the region is set to gain national recognition as an exciting hub for film and television production, ultimately enriching the cultural fabric of both the tribe and the broader community.
For more information and updates on upcoming productions, stakeholders and enthusiasts can visit the Cherokee Film website, showcasing the region’s expanding cinematic horizons.