‘Twisters’ Brought More Than ‘Movie Magic’ to Oklahoma

Oklahoma was proud to have "Twisters" filmed in the state. And since the movie has become a blockbuster success, Oklahoma now has a bigger spotlight on the state for future filming. Recently, Prairie Surf Media out of Oklahoma City, which hosted some of the production for "Twisters," released data on how the filming of "Twisters" positively impacted Oklahoma.

Prairie Surf Media runs Prairie Surf Studios, which is located in the old COX Convention Center in downtown Oklahoma City. The former convention center has been converted into production space and offers five soundstages and the capacity to house a film's entire production departments.

Spoiler alert if you haven't seen "Twisters!"

For reference, the scene in "Twisters" when everyone is hunkering down from a tornado in an El Reno movie theaters was actually filmed in Prairie Surf Studios.

What impact did 'Twisters' have on Oklahoma?

Prairie Surf Media crunched the numbers and found that "Twisters" brought more than "movie magic" to Oklahoma. From jobs to boosting local economics, "Twisters" had a positive impact on Oklahoma. Below are some highlights of the film's impact put together by Prairie Surf Media:

• The blockbuster is projected to have a $258 million economic impact for Oklahoma.
• Over 370 Oklahomans served on the crew for "Twisters."
• "Twisters" garnered 28,000 hotel nights in Oklahoma City.
• Serving as extras were 1,350 Oklahomans.
• The film spent $120 million dollars statewide.
• "Twisters" filmed in various locations throughout Oklahoma, including Oklahoma City, Chickasha, El Reno, Howe, Midwest City and Spencer.

A quote from Matt Payne, CEO of Prairie Surf Media, stated that "Twisters" has done more than just showcasing the state on the big screen.

Some might say Oklahoma is experiencing a Hollywood moment, but it's more than that. This is about shaping our identity as Oklahomans. Just like the Thunder and the NBA put Oklahoma City on the global map, the film industry is doing the same - and that is something we should celebrate.

Check out more of the "Twisters" data from Prairie Surf Media in the post below.