Notis Studios is a Black-owned independent film company based in Oklahoma City, built on faith, vision, and a firm belief that their stories deserve to be told truthfully, artistically, and without compromise.
What began in a living room with two best friends—one a visual storyteller, the other a master of sound—has grown into a powerhouse production house creating emotionally charged films, immersive soundscapes, and layered narratives that speak to the depth, beauty, and complexity of Black culture. Even the name, Notis, comes from the Latin word for “cipher,” a nod to their commitment to meaning—every project is intentional, layered, and made to resonate with hearts while awakening minds.
For founders Dekoven Riggins, Sr. and Marcus E. Brown, telling their stories their way is not just a mission—it’s a responsibility. From the groundbreaking success of Black Wall Street Burning to the raw vulnerability of Sessions, their work doesn’t shy away from truth. Instead, it amplifies voices long silenced. Their Oklahoma City studio boasts a full soundstage, a Dolby Atmos post-production suite, and a private 20-seat theater, making it not only a creative hub but a safe space for independent Black storytelling to thrive.
Dekoven Riggins, Sr., a native of Oklahoma City, graduate of Frederick Douglass High and Langston University, is a husband and father of four with a history in higher education. Marcus E. Brown, a retired combat Army veteran, is a husband and father of 12. Their Christian faith and lifelong love for music and film brought them together as members of ReachOut Ministries—and the spark to create was undeniable.
What was your first introduction to filmmaking or storytelling?
Dekoven: “In college, I led a national step team. We would come up with skits that unfolded over the course of the entire show. Looking back, that really shaped my ability to connect with an audience through stories and character development.”
Marcus: “As an only child, I had to create my own stories and act them out. My mom would always make me explain what was happening, so I learned how to bring her into my characters and worlds. That skill stuck with me and shaped my journey into filmmaking.”
Growing up, were there any Black filmmakers or entrepreneurs who inspired you?
Dekoven: “Robert Townsend, Spike Lee, John Singleton, and Ice Cube. Each had a unique approach to storytelling and camera work that left a lasting impact on me.”
Marcus: “Robert Townsend, Spike Lee, and Mario Van Peebles. They told our stories in a way that felt personal—like I was seeing my own life and the people I grew up with reflected on screen. They were the true voices that inspired my path.”
How did the two of you meet, and what sparked the idea to start a film studio?
“As members of ReachOut Ministries, we felt led by God to create something,” Marcus explains. “We didn’t know what at first, but after talking, we realized we shared a history in music and a passion for movies. That led us to make our first film, Black Wall Street Burning. Neither of us had filmmaking experience beyond music, so we learned from YouTube, pulled together our resources, and took the leap.”
Why Oklahoma?
Dekoven: “I grew up here, and Marcus has lived here for over 20 years. We saw the need to tell our stories—stories that went beyond tired tropes and caricatures. There’s so much untapped talent and beauty here, and at the time, the filmmaking space was wide open. It made perfect sense to build here.”
Notis Studios is more than a production house—it’s a movement. A reclamation of narrative power. A cinematic home for stories that heal, inspire, and leave a legacy. You can explore their work and vision at Notis Studios.
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