The streets of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, are alive with excitement, and it’s not just the usual hum of summer events—it’s the sound of Hollywood coming to town. A new film set to be shot in the city is generating major buzz, with locals thrilled to see their hometown take center stage in an upcoming motion picture. The production is part of a growing trend placing Oklahoma—and especially Broken Arrow—on the national film map.
According to local sources, including BA Sentinel and KTUL News, the movie titled Horrified is preparing to shoot scenes in downtown Broken Arrow. While the film itself is a horror flick, there’s nothing scary about the impact it’s expected to have on the local economy. From increased foot traffic to booming hotel reservations and excited small business owners, the movie has already begun to make waves—before the first scene is even shot.
One of the key attractions for filmmakers in Oklahoma is the state’s competitive rebate program. The Oklahoma Film + Music Office offers a cash rebate of up to 38% on qualified production expenses, a deal that’s hard to beat for producers looking to stretch their budgets without sacrificing quality. Add in the state’s diverse scenery and welcoming communities, and it’s no wonder filmmakers are heading here in increasing numbers.
The Broken Arrow City Council approved an amount not to exceed $59,000 to Horrified, LLC, a horror/comedy that will be filmed at the Stoney Creek Hotel.
The city said the movie production will provide 75 jobs with an estimated spend of $405,000 supporting local businesses. Stars attached to the movie include Ron Perlman, Busy Philips, Julie Benz, Jim Rash and Doug Jones.
Horrified submitted a film incentive application in June for a production to be filmed in Broken Arrow and sought pre-approval for a film rebate. The feature film has a $2.3 million budget, with filming projected to begin July 29 and finish Aug. 21.
The incentive uses the tax dollars paid by visitors who stay at hotels in Broken Arrow. Visit Broken Arrow, the city’s tourism arm, voted in February to recommend a film incentive to the City Council for consideration, and the program was approved later that month.
The incentive program includes the following rebates.
Local spending rebate requirements:
• Minimum budget of $5,000
• Minimum spend equal to 10% of total budget amount in Broken Arrow City Limits (hotels excluded due to separate hotel room incentive, below)
• 25% of shooting days/time must be in Broken Arrow
• Pre-completed/approved Visit Broken Arrow filming permit, if applicable
• Display the Visit Broken Arrow logo in end credits
Hotel Room Rebate:
• $500 for every 12 paid room nights at a City of Broken Arrow hotel
Production Office Rebate:
• 20% rebate on cost of production office space at any Broken Arrow hotel
• 10% rebate applies for cost of any production office space other than a Broken Arrow hotel but within city limits
Broken Arrow officials and residents are seizing the opportunity with open arms. “This is a big moment for our city,” said one local business owner. “We’ve always had charm, but now we’re getting attention. People are going to see our downtown, our shops, our vibe—and that’s great for business.” Several shopkeepers have already been told their storefronts may appear in scenes, and some restaurants are preparing for larger-than-normal crowds once the cast and crew arrive.
But the benefits go far beyond a temporary bump in sales. City leaders and economic developers see this as a long-term opportunity. By hosting a film production, Broken Arrow isn’t just helping one movie—it’s making a case to future directors, producers, and studios that this is a place worth coming back to. And as Oklahoma becomes increasingly film-friendly, Broken Arrow has a chance to lead the charge.
The timing couldn’t be better. In recent years, Oklahoma has been carving out a new identity as a low-cost, high-quality alternative to traditional film hubs like Los Angeles and Atlanta. The state hosted a record number of film projects in 2023 and 2024, with many more in the pipeline. With its walkable downtown, friendly locals, and small-town feel, Broken Arrow offers the kind of setting that many filmmakers crave.
The movie Horrified may be fictional, but the excitement it’s bringing to Broken Arrow is very real. City officials have hinted that there could be public events tied to the filming, such as meet-and-greets, open set tours, or even local casting calls for background actors. For residents, it’s a rare chance to be part of something special—and maybe even spot their city on the big screen.
Of course, there are logistical challenges to hosting a movie production. Street closures, parking changes, and traffic reroutes may temporarily inconvenience some. But so far, the response has been overwhelmingly positive. “It’s a little disruption, but for a big reward,” one resident said. “We’re happy to make room for something that puts Broken Arrow in the spotlight.”
With cameras rolling soon, Broken Arrow is stepping confidently into a new chapter—one filled with promise, publicity, and popcorn. As the state continues to woo more film projects, this could be just the beginning. From horror movies to romantic comedies, the possibilities are endless. But one thing’s for sure: Broken Arrow isn’t just watching the movies anymore. It’s starring in them.