- The film tax rebate program initiated in Oklahoma back in 2021 has resulted in an increase of economic benefits for Oklahoma residents.
- By increasing Oklahoma’s film and TV incentive pool, it will significantly enhance competitiveness with other states and yield substantial returns.
- Boiling Point Media is at the forefront of Oklahoma’s film future, participating in Oklahoma’s Film Tax Rebate Program.
The film industry in Oklahoma has experienced explosive growth in recent years, positioning the state as a competitive destination for filmmakers and production companies. As an operator at Boiling Point, I have witnessed firsthand how Oklahoma’s film incentive program has transformed the industry, created jobs, and stimulated economic activity. However, if we want to maintain this trajectory and secure a stronger future, we must take action now—starting with an increase in Oklahoma’s film tax rebate.
The Economic Impact of Film Incentives
According to a recent industry analysis, Oklahoma’s incentivized film spending saw a six-fold increase from $31.8 million in FY2020 to over $187 million in FY2021. Between FY2021 and FY2023, a total of $484 million was spent on film-related activities, demonstrating the substantial economic benefits of these productions. These incentives don’t just benefit filmmakers; they drive employment, local business growth, and tax revenue generation.
Oklahoma is now the only state to rank in the top 10 across all major industry growth categories—employment, total compensation paid, and average worker compensation. Employment in the state’s film and television sector has surged by 49%, and total wages have increased by an astonishing 135%. These numbers show that our film industry is thriving, but without further investment, we risk losing momentum.
The Role of Boiling Point Media in Oklahoma’s Film Future
At Boiling Point Media, we specialize in virtual production, visual effects (VFX), and animation, bringing cutting-edge technology and high-end creative services to the film and television industry. As one of Oklahoma’s premier digital production studios, we provide essential post-production services that allow filmmakers to bring their visions to life right here in our state.
However, these highly specialized jobs require top-tier talent, and without a competitive film tax rebate, it becomes difficult to attract and retain these skilled professionals. Oklahoma has the opportunity to become a leader in digital production and VFX, but it requires continued investment in our industry. Expanding the film tax rebate ensures that we keep these jobs local, preventing talent from migrating to larger markets like California, Georgia, or New Mexico. It also helps us train and develop the next generation of animators, visual effects artists, and virtual production specialists, further strengthening the state’s creative economy.
Why the Legislature Must Act Now
The data makes it clear: increasing the state’s film and TV incentive pool to $80 million annually will significantly enhance our competitiveness. Oklahoma currently ranks 18th among states with film incentive programs, but with this expansion, we could jump to 12th—just outside the top 10 states, which offer incentives of $100 million or more. This is an opportunity we cannot afford to miss.
For every dollar awarded in incentives, the state recoups $0.78 in tax revenue and sees a minimum of $3.33 spent by production companies on qualified expenditures. These figures highlight that Oklahoma’s film incentives are not just a cost—they’re an investment that yields substantial returns.
The Future of Film in Oklahoma
The growth of Oklahoma’s film industry is undeniable, but we must ensure that our state remains a desirable production hub. The expansion of our film tax rebate is crucial to sustaining this success, supporting local workers, and securing long-term economic benefits.
As we push for legislative action, I urge our lawmakers to recognize the immense value of this industry. The future of Oklahoma’s film and television sector depends on their support. By raising the film tax rebate cap, we can continue building a thriving, dynamic entertainment industry—one that not only tells incredible stories but also drives economic prosperity for years to come.