So, You Wanna Know About Movies Made in Oklahoma? Buckle Up, Buttercup!
Ever wondered how many flicks have been filmed in the great state of Oklahoma? You might be surprised! Oklahoma, turns out, boasts a filmography more exciting than a barrel of tumbleweeds in a tornado (although, maybe hold off on using that as a tagline).
How Many Movies Were Made In Oklahoma |
From Dust Bowl Dramas to Twister Thrillers: Oklahoma on the Silver Screen
Oklahoma's landscape has played a starring role in everything from heart-wrenching Depression-era stories ("The Grapes of Wrath") to teen angst anthems ("The Outsiders"). We've seen road trip adventures ("Two-Lane Blacktop") get dusty on our highways and even witnessed the scientific method in action (thanks, "Twister"). Heck, Tom Cruise even channeled his inner NASCAR driver in "Vanilla Sky" (filmed partly in Oklahoma City!).
But the silver screen love doesn't stop there. Recently, Oklahoma has been back in the spotlight with films like "Killers of the Flower Moon" (seriously, that cast is fire!) and the upcoming "Twisters" (because, apparently, chasing tornadoes never gets old).
So, how many movies exactly? Well, pinpointing a precise number is tricky. Movies can be filmed in multiple locations, and databases aren't always Oklahoma-perfect. That being said, a quick web search shows at least 76 films shot in Oklahoma, and if you count movies set in the state (but filmed elsewhere), that number jumps to over 90!
QuickTip: Use the post as a quick reference later.
Not too shabby for a state known for its wind and wheat, right?
Oklahoma's Big Screen Gems: A Tourist's Guide (Kind Of)
Let's be honest, some movies are just better in Oklahoma. Here are a couple of classics and where you might recognize the scenery:
- The Grapes of Wrath (1940): Take a road trip through the Dust Bowl – Oklahoma style! Visit Caddo County for some of those iconic wide shots.
- Twister (1996): If you're looking for storm cellar chic, look no further! The Wakita, Kansas scenes were actually filmed in Oklahoma near Guthrie.
- The Outsiders (1983): Feeling nostalgic? Head to Tulsa's Will Rogers High School (the real one, not the one trashed in the movie...hopefully).
Remember, these are just a few examples. There's a whole world of Oklahoma cinema out there waiting to be explored!
Tip: Reading in short bursts can keep focus high.
How to Oklahoma and the Movies: Your FAQ
Still got questions about Oklahoma's cinematic adventures? Fear not, film buff! We've got you covered.
1. How to Find Out If a Movie Was Filmed in Oklahoma?
Do some online digging! Check out the Oklahoma Film + Music Office website [Oklahoma Film + Music Office] or search databases like IMDb using Oklahoma as a filming location.
Tip: A slow, careful read can save re-reading later.
2. How to Visit Filming Locations in Oklahoma?
Many filming locations are publicly accessible – think parks, towns, and historic landmarks. Just be respectful of private property and don't expect to find Tom Hanks hanging out (although, wouldn't that be something?).
3. How to Make My Own Movie in Oklahoma?
Tip: Patience makes reading smoother.
The Oklahoma Film + Music Office offers a ton of resources for filmmakers, from permits to locations. Check out their website – they might just help you become Oklahoma's next Spielberg!
4. How to Convince My Friends Oklahoma Makes Great Movies?
Show them "Twister"! Seriously, that movie is pure, popcorn-munching entertainment. Bonus points if you can recreate Bill Paxton's epic hair.
5. How to Know When the Next Big Movie is Filming in Oklahoma?
Keep an eye out for local news stories or follow the Oklahoma Film + Music Office on social media. Who knows, you might even snag yourself a spot as an extra!