"The Waters" a feature film co-production of Hollywood South and Hollywood East.
USA, August 13, 2008
What happens when you combine the talents of Hollywood South (New Orleans) and Hollywood East (Wilmington, North Carolina)? "A sci-fi thriller about three computer technicians sent to New Orleans in an effort to retrieve the serum for a strange virus that has taken over the city", said Roxanne Marchand a New Orleans resident and the writer/director/producer of the feature film "The Waters". She went on to describe the film by adding, "They soon discover the true reason they were sent in was to cover-up the truth and they are now marked for death, hunted by their colleagues and the infected citizens. Their only chance of survival is a small band of marines." About the making of the film, Don A. King of HighFall Productions the Wilmington, North Carolina based production company said, "It was a grueling shoot and on an ultra-low budget. We shot an action packed, sci-fi thriller in ten days. That has to be a record considering the odds". Marchand added, "We were working with a dedicated, professional and passionate team of actors and crew. Everyone who played a part in the making of the film wants to see this succeed."
"The film has a heavy New Orleans influence. Most of the talent was either from New Orleans or the surrounding areas and the main location is One Shell Square, a well-known building in downtown New Orleans and the tallest building in Louisiana. However, it had considerable support from Wilmington," said Marchand. "Not only did HighFall produce and shoot the film, the main core of the crew was from Wilmington," Marchand went on. When considering who to shoot the film, Marchand knew early on she wanted her friends at HighFall Productions to carry the load. R.R. Gee, co-director was excited about the project. "It was beautifully written, character driven, suspenseful and it had historic New Orleans as the backdrop. It was an easy decision." Gee said. Don A. King, co-producer, added "I have read several scripts Roxanne has written and realized great talent in her style. Naturally, I was excited about the project and immediately saw great potential."
"The film is now in post production which is being completed in Wilmington at our newly opened offices," said Don Weimer, one of the partners in HighFall. "This was a true team effort from Hollywood East and Hollywood South", Weimer continued. "While the crew was primarily from Wilmington, the cast was nearly all New Orleans. I wanted to make this a big NOLA project and showcase our talent" Marchand said. New Orleans native and lead actress in the film, Shannon Hand said, "I auditioned for this part because it's rare to see strong female action heroes portrayed in film. It was an opportunity to work with an up and coming female writer/director who has a passion for something other than romantic comedies and dramatic love stories." Jake Moran, another New Orleans actor, was giving a friend a ride to the casting call. Jake was convinced to audition and landed a lead role. "There's an old Irish saying 'if you're lucky enough to be Irish, than you're lucky enough', but being in the right place, at the right time certainly doesn't hurt." said Moran. Dewayne Bateman and Jeremy Kerr, co-owners of NOLA Talent 70121, handled most of the casting for featured extras, stunts and background. "We were so happy to have the chance to assist with the casting for this film. The talent that was displayed on set by the local extras is exactly what we are trying to promote here in New Orleans," said Bateman.
The cast also had Wilmington representation. Greg Frucci, one of the leads in the film said, "The description of the movie intrigued me and I couldn't wait to find out more." Frucci continues, "I was so excited about this character because he reminded me of my father and grandfather who were both career marines. I dedicated my performance to them both." "What he didn't know in the beginning was that the character was written specifically for him," Marchand added.
Both Marchand and HighFall Productions are working hard to get through post production and set a release date. While they are busy on "The Waters" they have several other projects that are in various stages of development. "We expect a release date in early 2009 and will be shopping it for limited theatrical release. Until then, keep an eye on us because we are making things happen!" said Marchand.
More information can be found on-line at www.myspace.com/the_waters www.highfallproductions.com , www.roxannemarchand.com