Writer. Director. Storyteller. Katie Hoffman Faulk is bringing Push County to life in Oklahoma
Turning Ideas into Reality: The Journey of a First-Time Feature Director in Oklahoma
Katie Hoffman's journey to directing her first feature film, Push County, is a testament to the power of perseverance, collaboration, and the ever-evolving process of filmmaking. In a recent episode of Behind the Scenes Oklahoma, Katie shared her experiences as a writer and director, offering insights into the creative process and what it takes to transform an idea into a tangible film project. As she navigates the exciting world of filmmaking, Katie provides invaluable advice for aspiring filmmakers and creative professionals looking to bring their own visions to life.
The Creative Process: From Idea to Script
Every great film begins with a single idea, and for Katie Hoffman, her creative journey started with a simple spark of inspiration. "It starts with a little inkling of an idea," Katie explains. "If you give it the space to grow, it will definitely evolve." For Katie, the process of writing a script begins with brainstorming and allowing her ideas to flow freely onto the page. Whether using a notebook or a computer, she embraces the freedom to explore different concepts before settling on the one that speaks to her the most.
Once she identified the idea that resonated with her, Katie emphasized the importance of commitment and dedication, as writing a script is a long-term endeavor. "Writing a script is about tweaking and embracing the story for a very long time," she notes. This process requires patience and a genuine passion for the story being told.
Transitioning from Communications to Screenwriting
Katie's background in communications and marketing provided a solid foundation for her creative pursuits, but screenwriting was a relatively new venture. "I was a communications major in college, and I’ve always done writing as a hobby," Katie shares. "Screenwriting, however, was something that clicked for me a few years ago when I realized that I wanted to tell stories through this medium."
To hone her craft, Katie turned to resources like MasterClass, taking screenwriting classes to better understand the structure and formatting specific to the craft. "Writing for the screen is unique because it’s both an art form and a blueprint for the cinematic experience," Katie explains. She also worked closely with a coach to further refine her skills and strengthen her voice as a writer.
Watch the full episode on YouTube.
Bringing Push County to Life: The Road to Production
Katie's feature film, Push County, is a crime thriller set in Oklahoma, drawing inspiration from the Coen Brothers' classics like Fargo. The film’s plot weaves together elements of crime, suspense, and dark humor. "Push County is an Oklahoma story with an indigenous element, and it’s a crime thriller that I’m incredibly excited to bring to life," Katie says.
One of the most exciting moments in the filmmaking process was the script reading event, where Katie had the opportunity to cast local actors for key roles. "It was amazing to hear the script come to life with such talented local actors," Katie recalls. "For us, it was an opportunity to share what we’re working on and give people a sense of what the film will feel like."
The script reading event was a significant step in moving Push County from the page to the screen. "It was an enlightening experience, and it helped build excitement for the project," Katie adds. "It also gave us the chance to involve the community, which is something I truly value as a filmmaker."
Oklahoma’s Film Incentives: Supporting Local Productions
A key aspect of making Push County a reality is Oklahoma’s robust film incentives program. Katie explains how the state’s tax rebate system plays a crucial role in supporting local filmmakers and creating job opportunities for Oklahoma-based crews and cast members. "Oklahoma offers a rebate on dollars spent in the state, which benefits local businesses and crew," Katie explains. "It’s a win-win for everyone involved, and I’m grateful for the support the state provides."
The incentive program has been a vital component in Katie’s efforts to bring Push County to life in Oklahoma. "We’re planning to apply for the incentives, and we’re optimistic about qualifying," she says. "It’s a great opportunity to contribute to the local economy while supporting the film industry in Oklahoma."
Casting and Filming in Oklahoma
When it comes to casting, Katie plans to hire a mix of well-known actors for key roles while also providing opportunities for local talent to shine. "We’re looking to attach a few A-list actors for the larger roles, but we also want to cast local actors in smaller, supporting roles," Katie says. "There are about 20 to 25 roles specifically for local talent, and we’re excited to give them a platform."
The film will be shot in and around Oklahoma, including both Tulsa and the Pushmataha County area, which inspired the setting for the film. "We’re starting production in October 2024, and I’m thrilled that we’ll be filming in the heart of Oklahoma," Katie shares. "This state has so much to offer in terms of locations, and I’m proud to bring this story to life here."
Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers: Take the Leap
Katie’s advice for aspiring filmmakers is simple yet profound: "Just start. It’s easy to look at someone else’s success and think you’re not there yet, but you have to take that first step." She encourages others to embrace the uncertainty and learn as they go, understanding that failure is a natural part of the process. "You won’t know what you’re doing until you try, and the more you try, the better you’ll become," Katie says.
For those with an idea but unsure how to move forward, Katie’s words are a reminder that the journey is just as important as the destination. With Push County, Katie is not only telling a story—she’s also helping to foster a creative community in Oklahoma and paving the way for future filmmakers in the state.
As Katie embarks on the next phase of her filmmaking journey, we’ll continue to follow her progress and cheer on her success. Stay tuned for more updates on Push County and the growing film industry in Oklahoma.
