This summer, "The Backlot: A Place for Filmmakers" has been converted into the "Movie Mavericks Boot Camp," featuring works by some of the "most talented indie directors to ever walk a soundstage," as well as screenings and casting/crew calls from up-and-coming young directors from the Tennessee Valley.
This second installment of the summer will feature "The Naked Kiss" (1964) by director Sam Fuller. The film tells the story of a woman of the streets trying to make a new start for herself in a middle-American small town. "In classic Fuller style, though, nothing is what it seems, and the plot twists come hot and heavy," officials said.
As "The Naked Kiss" is pre-1968, it is rated ‘NR’ (Not Rated). Parental discretion is advised.
The feature "The Naked Kiss" will be preceded by a short film, “She Walks,” by North Georgia filmmaker Zachary Lee Ratchford. The film tells the story of a brutal kidnapping gone terribly wrong and stars Julie Van Valkenburg, Chase Parker, Ashley Larsen, and Jinny Marie Jagoditsch.
Meanwhile, downstairs at Heritage House the evening will also feature a casting call for Alex Preavett's student film, “Ladies First,” a short film inspired by true events. The film tells the story of a college girl who expresses interest in renting an apartment on CraigsList, only to find that the apparently vacant apartment isn’t what it seems.
Mr. Preavett is looking to cast the lead role of Amanda, and sides for the audition may be found here.
Mr. Preavett is also needing additional crew for his short. Among the positions he is seeking to fill are: assistant director, grips, and PA’s.
"The Backlot" takes place every 3rd Monday of the month, weather and national holidays permitting, at the Heritage House Arts and Civic Center in East Brainerd, 1428 Jenkins Road. Doors open at 6 pm.. Presentations by visiting speakers begin at 7 p.m. and are followed by a Q&A and usually run an hour and a half or so.
Admission is free, however, as food is potluck, it is suggested that attendees bring a simple side, "mocktail" beverage, or snack to share.
Plenty of "relationship-building" time is made available both before and after the main event, so attendees are encouraged to bring business cards and/or headshots with which to exchange information for future collaboration opportunities.