Private Project

The Reddest State

The Reddest State is a feature-length documentary film following the controversial and polarizing political activism of Al Gerhardt, former head of the Sooner Tea Party, as he wages war on the Republicans in his home state of Oklahoma whom he feels are not conservative enough.

  • Royce Sharp
    Director
  • Royce Sharp
    Writer
  • Royce Sharp
    Producer
  • Shane Brown
    Producer
  • Al Gerhart
    Key Cast
  • Patty McAlister
    Key Cast
  • John Bennett
    Key Cast
  • Project Type:
    Documentary
  • Runtime:
    1 hour 27 minutes
  • Completion Date:
    November 30, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    15,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Digital Cinema Package:
    Unavailable
Director Biography - Royce Sharp

Royce Sharp is an Emmy-nominated sound mixer who has worked on multiple award winning films, documentaries, and tv series including Chef's Table, Reservation Dogs, Tiger King, and Working: What We Do All Day. These projects have taken Royce across the globe (and across Oklahoma) to countless remote and beautiful places he never dreamt could have existed. His adventures around the world have affirmed his deep belief that human beings everywhere are often more than happy to discuss the things they are most passionate about, to share what knowledge they may have with you, and most importantly feed you their delicious local food.

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Director Statement

In spite of making a film about the politics of my home state which are often at odds with my own, I have strived from the very beginning of this process to make a film that couldn't be described as a "persuasive essay." Frequently in my adult life I have found myself in the position of explaining the ultra-conservative politics of my fellow Oklahomans to co-workers and friends from large, left-leaning coastal cities. Conversely, I have found myself being forced to do the opposite for more conservative friends and family back home. In so many ways this film is my reaction to those difficult conversations. Given the current tenor of our politics, I have tried to approach this subject matter the same way I would a fraught conversation with someone I care about: from a place of respect, patience, and empathy. It is my hope that The Reddest State allows all audiences, regardless of their politics or where they live, to see our current political moment a bit more clearly and with greater understanding.