Behind The One: Erin Elizabeth Cook’s Script, Stars & Small-Town Magic
Behind the Scenes in Oklahoma: The Journey of The One and Bringing Hollywood Talent to the Heartland
Oklahoma’s film industry continues to flourish with a growing number of projects, and The One, a film led by screenwriter, producer, and actress Erin Elizabeth Cook, is one of the latest examples. In a recent episode of Behind the Scenes Oklahoma, Erin shared her journey of making a movie in her home state, the challenges she faced, and how she brought Hollywood talent, including Martin Sheen, to Oklahoma.
The Spark Behind The One
Erin's journey to filmmaking began with a passion for storytelling and a vision to create a film that would resonate deeply with audiences. “I always knew that I wanted a heavy hitter to help elevate the story,” Erin explained. The movie follows a heartwarming narrative, deeply rooted in Oklahoma's unique culture, and features real Oklahoma landmarks, including the iconic Christ Tree in Enid.
However, bringing such a project to life wasn’t without its hurdles. Erin spoke candidly about the long and often complicated process of raising funds, working with casting directors, and navigating the complexities of filmmaking in a state not traditionally known for large-scale productions.
Casting Martin Sheen: The Dream Role
One of the most exciting parts of Erin’s story is how she landed the legendary Martin Sheen for a pivotal role in The One. Sheen’s casting came late in the process, and while initially a long shot, Erin was persistent in reaching out to his representatives. Through a connection with her attorney, who had previously worked with Sheen on The West Wing, she was able to present the script to him. To Erin’s surprise, Martin Sheen not only read the script but loved it.
“Martin was the second person to read the entire script, and he was the last major casting role we needed to fill,” Erin explained. Despite some challenges with scheduling due to wildfires in California, Sheen's commitment to the project was unwavering. "He truly made the film special," she said.
Watch the full episode on YouTube.
Oklahoma as a Filmmaking Hub: Challenges and Triumphs
Erin, like many filmmakers, believes that Oklahoma is poised to become a major player in the film industry. She emphasized that Oklahoma has the potential to bring in talent and create a sustainable ecosystem for film production. However, it requires a balance between attracting big-name actors and supporting local talent.
“Bringing in actors like Martin Sheen brings attention to the state, but we also want to showcase Oklahoma’s local talent,” Erin explained. The One features 18 local actors from Oklahoma, many of whom have honed their craft by training and working within the state’s growing film scene. By balancing big names with local faces, Erin is helping to foster a new era of filmmaking in Oklahoma.
While Erin acknowledges that Oklahoma still has a long way to go to compete with Hollywood, she’s optimistic about the future. “Oklahoma is on the right path, and the incentives available here, like the 30% film rebate, are a huge boost to productions. It’s an exciting time,” she said.
The Economic Impact and Building Infrastructure
Erin is a firm believer in the economic impact that filmmaking can have on local communities. From hiring local crew members to boosting tourism, film productions bring in valuable revenue for small towns. She’s especially passionate about shooting in smaller, rural towns like Guthrie, Enid, and Broken Bow, where the charm and historical significance of the locations add depth to the film.
Erin also highlighted the importance of investing in the infrastructure needed to support larger film projects. “If we continue to build our film infrastructure, we can start attracting more shows and movies to Oklahoma. It’s not about reinventing Hollywood; it’s about making what works in Oklahoma,” she said.
Raising Funds for Filmmaking in Oklahoma
Raising money for a film is a challenge in any location, but Erin’s experience highlights the unique hurdles faced when working in a state like Oklahoma. She discussed the importance of securing funding through local sources while also providing a clear financial roadmap for investors. “Filmmaking is risky, but it’s important to be transparent with your investors about the potential risks and rewards,” Erin shared.
For Erin, securing funding for The One wasn’t easy, but with a well-crafted pitch deck and the support of key financial partners, she was able to bring her vision to life. The Oklahoma Film and Music Office also played a crucial role in supporting the project through its rebate program, which offers significant incentives for filming in the state.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Oklahoma Film
As The One nears its release in November 2023, Erin is excited about the opportunities it will bring to Oklahoma’s film community. She believes that the film will help showcase the state’s potential as a hub for movie production, while also providing local filmmakers with the chance to work alongside industry veterans.
“I’m so proud that I was able to make my first feature film in Oklahoma,” Erin said. “This is just the beginning, and I hope that by continuing to support local talent and attracting big names, we can create something sustainable here in Oklahoma that can continue to grow.”
With Erin’s dedication and the continued growth of Oklahoma’s film industry, it’s clear that the future is bright for filmmakers in the Sooner State. Stay tuned for updates on The One, and get ready to witness the magic that’s happening right here in Oklahoma.
