Based in Oklahoma City, Okla., Hannah Gates works locally as a Hair and Makeup Artist on set for film and television productions throughout Oklahoma. Previous production credits include “Minari,” “American Underdog,” “Seven Cemeteries” and “Twisters.” In addition to her hair and makeup credits, she also has written and directed short films.
How did you get started in the film industry?
I had an opportunity to production assist on a feature in Saint Louis, MO, right out of high school where I networked with the local film school scene and started with smaller projects. Since then, it has grown into a career.
Did you have any formal education or training related to the film industry before starting?
I studied film at a community college before moving to Los Angeles to study make-up. During this time, I made a few of my own film projects. This was helpful for me to get a greater perspective while working on set.
Did you have any formal education or training related to your specific department on set?
I have a certification in make-up from Make-up Designory in Burbank, CA. It was a six-month program that went through beauty, character, special effects and even a class that taught molding and sculpting prosthetics.
What are some of your most recent successes (credits or accolades) related to your career in the industry?
Last year I went through a rigorous interview process and was chosen to be one of the local hires in the Make-Up Department on “Twisters.” The department head I worked under, Luisa Able, was just nominated for her work on “Oppenheimer.” Being able to work on a team with someone who has an accomplishment like that was very validating for me that I am in the right career. I am so thankful that Oklahoma has these opportunities.
What has your career in the state’s film industry taught you?
This state’s film industry has taught me that people of all backgrounds and personalities have a place to shine and grow. When I first joined the industry, I was under the impression from Hollywood stereotypes that everyone has to be a certain way to thrive in this industry, but working in Oklahoma has shown me that we all thrive in our individuality and create better work from it.
What is the highlight of your career thus far?
The highlight of my career has been working on “Minari.” It was my first feature when I moved back to Oklahoma. We shot all over Skiatook, which is where I went to high school. Being a teenager from Oklahoma I never would have thought these kinds of opportunities would be possible. It later went on to be nominated for many Oscars as well as winning Best Supporting Actress. The film is about reconnecting to your roots, and I felt like that was such a strong theme in my life at that time as well.
What is your favorite aspect of working in Oklahoma’s film and television industry?
My favorite aspect of working in Oklahoma is all the history that this state carries. I’ve had many opportunities to work with the Cherokee Nation and help them tell stories of important Native American people that others might not have a way of knowing about. It feels good to do good as well as show the rest of the world what we have to offer culture- and creative-wise.
What’s the best piece of advice you have for someone starting their career in Oklahoma’s film industry?
I would tell anyone who is interested in joining the industry to put yourself out there. Show up to the filmmaker’s meetups, take classes or engage on social media. This industry is all about the relationships you have with other people. So be kind, honest and hardworking and that will take you far.
How does someone in your field/department best promote/market themselves to those hiring in your industry?
For someone interested in hair/make-up, I would recommend having a strong portfolio. Also showing your education will also be helpful. Showing other professionals and producers that you have invested in your career shows just how seriously you take yourself professionally.
Are there any local film organizations, resources or events that have been beneficial to you in your career?
Yes, joining the local 484 union has really changed my career. Since joining, it has given me the opportunity to travel down to Texas and work on many great projects, as well as meet other inspiring artists to learn from them.
What’s the one item you can’t live without on set, and why?
My set bag. It has just about anything I could need for doing hair and make-up touchups as well as gum, deodorant and a portable charger.
Would your career be impacted without the state’s film incentive program? If so, how?
It absolutely would. I initially moved out of the state to work in the industry, but since the incentive has started, it has only grown and solidified itself. If the incentive suddenly went away, I would have to shift what kind of work I do or seek out work in a different state.
Where do you see yourself – AND – Oklahoma’s film industry in the next five years?
I can see myself continuing to work in Oklahoma with increased confidence as I take on projects that I view as out of my comfort zone. I see Oklahoma securing itself as a film hub like Atlanta or New Mexico.
What are you working on now or next?
I recently worked as a Department Head of Hair on “The Last Rodeo.” It’s a touching family drama that takes place in Oklahoma.
Each featured individual or business is given the provided questions to answer in their own voice. Other than formatting and grammar, the answers are personal to each featured voice, and are not provided by the Oklahoma Film + Music Office.
