Local Filmmaker Jumps On Opportunity, Makes Movie In OKC

The Oklahoma film industry is booming, and one filmmaker said he sees the potential and has jumped at the opportunity.

Melvin Childs grew up in Oklahoma City and has made a name for himself in the film and stage industry.

He's the executive producer of "For the Love of Money," a movie based in Atlanta but being filmed in Oklahoma City. He said he is excited about bringing big things to his home state.

"You say big things and I think that's just a matter of perception, I have some pretty lofty goals so I'm not quite there yet, so we'll see," he said.

Even though Childs aspires bigger, this is a pretty big production.

It's features Katt Williams and Keri Hilson as the leads. It also features D.C. Young Fly, LisaRaye McCoy, Keith Sweat, Rotimi, Lyfe Jennings and Jason Mitchell.

So, this is no small project and Childs said it's probably not the last.

"You know the film business in Oklahoma from what I understand is growing pretty quickly, you know they have a rebate system with the state, that they are actually rebating money back to those that are creating films right here in Oklahoma and I'm probably one of the few interested in doing urban films here. So, this is the first one. You might see many more after this one I don't know well see," he said.

Childs said the film was originally written for the stage, however when COVID-19 shut down theaters, he simply had to adapt. He said he appreciates the community support and don't be surprised to see some local talent in this movie as well.