Filmmakers of upcoming projects “First Haunt” and “Astral Plane Drifter” are to attend in person at the 2023 Filmmaker Spotlight!
The 2023 Filmmaker Spotlight (See Here) is setting out to shed a light on two smaller–scale film productions looking to bring projects to life partially in beautiful Southern Utah. With the gifted storyteller Kevin Costner and his creative team coming to the area soon to work on two film installments of the highly anticipated “Horizon” series, it’s safe to say that we’ll be seeing plenty of other projects of various sizes coming to town in the future as well.
While the two production teams being profiled during this intimate spotlight might be considerably smaller in scale and lower in budget, they are no less grand in passion, heart, and creative drive and you’ll see this first hand during this event.
On Tuesday, March 21st, join the Film and Media Alliance of Southern Utah (FMASU) at The Electric Theater in St. George, UT at 9 PM (immediately following The Electric Film Series post-screening discussion) for an hour-long look at these spirited and altogether creative endeavors. The evening will include filmmakers, an early look at the storytelling process, script excerpts, insight into the importance of Southern Utah as a filming location, and information as to how you can help be a part of these entertaining projects, as the teams behind them can always use assistance in various capacities.
Which film projects will be profiled during this particular Filmmaker Spotlight?
Writer/director Tanner McCowan and his dedicated team are setting out to bring you a paranormal laugh-fest/romance in the vein of “Beetlejuice” and “Joe Vs. the Volcano.” Team “First Haunt” is gearing up to shoot in summer 2023 right here in Southern Utah. With a successful crowdfunding campaign already having come to a close, there will be another to follow in the future, but more importantly, it should be noted that the powers that be are also looking for crew in the area. Further still, Team “First Haunt” is knee-deep in the casting process and holding open auditions. Get an early glimpse at what the fearless crew behind this feature will have in store for viewers as McGowan and select members of his team share insight on what looks to be a wonderfully entertaining throwback with big laughs. Jump on board and lend your support!
Yucca Valley-based writer/director Mike Caravella made a big splash on the festival circuit (which included well-received screenings at Desertscape International, HorrorFest International, and Kanab Film Festival) with his short film, “Astral Plane Drifter” back in 2021; This bonkers B-movie tinged sci-fi, kung-fu, stoner comedy/western just about defies any sort of conventional description and now, its creator is ready to unleash his labor-of-love upon the world in the form of a feature-length version, to be directed by Scott Slone (“Malibu Horror Story”) and produced by Jay Wade Edwards (“Aqua Teen Hunger Force.”) Caravella and his director of photography, Joe di Gennaro, will be on hand to discuss the project by way of a special look at the short film, information on their crowdfunding campaign, a peek at the cast and crew, and insight into the importance of Southern Utah and why it’ll serve as a perfect locale for parts of the production. Trust us when we tell you; Once you meet a committed and forever affable Caravella in person, you’ll want to be a part of this film.
With the Filmmaker Spotlight, FMASU’s goal is to create a platform for the filmmakers themselves but it’s also all about all of you. If you’re an actor or someone looking for more experience in any area of film production, we ask that you attend. It should also be noted that this will be a great networking opportunity. Likewise, if you’re simply a movie-goer or an admirer of film and the arts in general, come on out and lend your support.
