MOTION PICTURE NEWS AND PERSONALITIES
SPIRITUAL WARFARE FILM PROJECT 'SEBERIAN' TO LAUNCH CROWDFUNDING
Right, producer and "Seberian" creator, Jason Dahl. Insets left to right, actors Benny Oliveri, Lyndsay Wrensen, Stuart Anson and Mason Henderson.
▶ BY KEVIN SCOTT COLLIER
On September 13, an interstellar launch will take place. Not literally, but spiritually. It’s the date set when a crowdfunding process is engaged for Seberian: The Hidden Battle Revealed, a feature-length movie production featuring clashing angels and demons in supernatural warfare. It’s also the first in a series of planned Seberian films.
The project is spearheaded by the author of the Seberian book series, Jason Dahl, founder of the film's production company. According to Dahl, the idea didn’t begin as a book.
“Started as a movie script, was converted to a novel, and now we are in pre-production on the film,” Dahl told CM.
The title Seberian is a word Dahl “made up,” based on an ancient Hebrew word (seber) that means “hope.” Thus, the Seberians are “soldiers of hope.”
The project is being pitched as a sci-fi/action adventure, a realm where spiritual warfare rages between angels and demons “in a Star Wars style space opera,” the producer explained. The concept isn’t so “far out there,” but a consumer-driven curiosity, especially with Christian authors on the less traveled road. Ask Thomas Horn or John Ramirez. Spiritual warfare exists, and is playing out in our universe daily.
“It’s a unique blend,” Dahl conveyed, “but many people have loved the concept. We are producing a trailer now. We plan to premiere here, in Tampa, at the Historic Tampa Theater, in February, 2021.”
Dahl desires the picture sparks conversations about the hope God offers us in the midst of this crazy, fallen world. Taking place in another galaxy, and another time, the first in the series, The Hidden Battle Revealed, happens in the period before the Messiah. It focuses on the war in Heaven, and the fall of Satan and a third of the angels.
Dahl explained the sci-fi/fantasy framing of the feature allows a fresh and unique look at our world.
“The goal is to show how, and why, Jesus had to come as the Messiah,” he posted in a statement on the film website. “I cannot match the skill and mastery of men like J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, but I hope and pray that I can use these genres to communicate biblical truth, as they did.”
The producer does intend to use his talents as a craftsman and artist, to create intriguing and eye-catching props and sets that will enhance the film.
“As far as the story is concerned, there is a lot of action, but ultimately it has a message of nonviolence,” he told CM.
Dahl conveyed that most of the motion picture will shot at a Tampa studio, with additional photography taking place in upstate New York.
The Seberian crew is rife with talent. Aside from Executive Producer, screenwriter and Director, Jason Dahl, Mark Russell takes the helm, as Director of Photography. The crew includes composer and worship leader, Trevor Easterling, and firearms instructor and military advisor, Joe Naples. The VFX and art team is comprised of John Carlson, Brian McKenzie, Rob Richardson, Zachary Nobles, Chris Smith, and Susan and Alianna Arango.
Cast in principal character roles in the motion picture are Benny Oliveri as Lonan, Lyndsay Wrensen as Averine, Stuart Anson as Devakin, and Mason Henderson as Telgrin.
The project is still seeking talent. For information on how to submit a query, see the Seberian Casting Page. And make sure to watch for the Seberian movie launch on Kickstarter, September 13.
On September 13, an interstellar launch will take place. Not literally, but spiritually. It’s the date set when a crowdfunding process is engaged for Seberian: The Hidden Battle Revealed, a feature-length movie production featuring clashing angels and demons in supernatural warfare. It’s also the first in a series of planned Seberian films.
The project is spearheaded by the author of the Seberian book series, Jason Dahl, founder of the film's production company. According to Dahl, the idea didn’t begin as a book.
“Started as a movie script, was converted to a novel, and now we are in pre-production on the film,” Dahl told CM.
The title Seberian is a word Dahl “made up,” based on an ancient Hebrew word (seber) that means “hope.” Thus, the Seberians are “soldiers of hope.”
The project is being pitched as a sci-fi/action adventure, a realm where spiritual warfare rages between angels and demons “in a Star Wars style space opera,” the producer explained. The concept isn’t so “far out there,” but a consumer-driven curiosity, especially with Christian authors on the less traveled road. Ask Thomas Horn or John Ramirez. Spiritual warfare exists, and is playing out in our universe daily.
“It’s a unique blend,” Dahl conveyed, “but many people have loved the concept. We are producing a trailer now. We plan to premiere here, in Tampa, at the Historic Tampa Theater, in February, 2021.”
Dahl desires the picture sparks conversations about the hope God offers us in the midst of this crazy, fallen world. Taking place in another galaxy, and another time, the first in the series, The Hidden Battle Revealed, happens in the period before the Messiah. It focuses on the war in Heaven, and the fall of Satan and a third of the angels.
Dahl explained the sci-fi/fantasy framing of the feature allows a fresh and unique look at our world.
“The goal is to show how, and why, Jesus had to come as the Messiah,” he posted in a statement on the film website. “I cannot match the skill and mastery of men like J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, but I hope and pray that I can use these genres to communicate biblical truth, as they did.”
The producer does intend to use his talents as a craftsman and artist, to create intriguing and eye-catching props and sets that will enhance the film.
“As far as the story is concerned, there is a lot of action, but ultimately it has a message of nonviolence,” he told CM.
Dahl conveyed that most of the motion picture will shot at a Tampa studio, with additional photography taking place in upstate New York.
The Seberian crew is rife with talent. Aside from Executive Producer, screenwriter and Director, Jason Dahl, Mark Russell takes the helm, as Director of Photography. The crew includes composer and worship leader, Trevor Easterling, and firearms instructor and military advisor, Joe Naples. The VFX and art team is comprised of John Carlson, Brian McKenzie, Rob Richardson, Zachary Nobles, Chris Smith, and Susan and Alianna Arango.
Cast in principal character roles in the motion picture are Benny Oliveri as Lonan, Lyndsay Wrensen as Averine, Stuart Anson as Devakin, and Mason Henderson as Telgrin.
The project is still seeking talent. For information on how to submit a query, see the Seberian Casting Page. And make sure to watch for the Seberian movie launch on Kickstarter, September 13.
LUV LIFE TO RELEASE 'LET GO AND LET GOD' ON SEPT. 3
Lead actor Clifton Powell, center. Insets left, from top left to lower right: Delynn Terry, Carla Mahaffee, Jenique Bennett, David Schifter, Kimberly Ann Parker and producer Nakia T. Hamilton. Inset right: Official movie poster.
▶ BY KEVIN SCOTT COLLIER
Luv Life Entertainment will be releasing a groundbreaking dramatic motion picture, Let Go and Let God, on September 3. The movie will be distributed by Maverick Movies. The story involves two people from vastly different worlds, whose lives are rocked after experiencing sudden deaths in their family. They question God as a result, but find the faith they're looking for on an unexpected path in life. Luv Life Entertainment founder, Nakia T. Hamilton, who produced, wrote, and directed the feature, explained the idea for the movie didn’t just pop into her head. “It came over time,” Hamilton told CM. “I have met a lot of people that exclude God’s existence because of people in their family passing. When it was time to make the next film, I didn’t have to think about it. Things just came to me naturally.” The project has been a year in the making, with production commencing in August, 2018. But it has already elicited great interest, even before its release. “Joel Osteen contacted us about viewing the film,” Hamilton revealed. “They heard about it from a Women’s Day magazine article calling it ‘one of the top Christian films of 2019!’ Now, that was nothing but God! I can’t take one cent of credit.” The movie puts on display how faith can be tested by a life event. Hamilton conveyed that too many people seek God after a tragedy, instead of before. “I believe it’s a little easier when you develop a relationship with God prior,” he said. “When you spend time with God and His word, it builds your faith.” Avoiding toxic environments ruled by the devil is essential for spiritual growth.. “Staying away from things that work against God puts you in more of a nourishing atmosphere,” Hamilton explained. “That is a big deal. I rarely hear people speak on the benefits of it, relating to your faith. It’s easier to pass the faith test when you surround yourself with only the right answers.” The movie, mostly filmed in Wilmington, North Carolina, boasts impressive talent. Principal actors featured include Clifton Powell, David Schifter, Jenique Bennett, Kimberly Ann Parker, Carla Mahaffee, Brynn Mosely, Delynn Terry, Joan Reilly and Gary Paige. Actress Delynn Terry played Wendy, a character who went with what was in her heart after a tragedy and was obedient to God. “God is love and it is the strongest love that can bind a family in His Name,” Terry told CM. “For me personally, Let Go and Let God has been a life-changing experience. I am not only thankful that my life has crossed paths with Nikia as a filmmaker, but also that I was blessed.” Actor David Shifter, who plays Jake in the film, conveyed that his part was thought-provoking. “It was a great experience,” Shifter told CM. “My role opened my eyes to what we are always taught. Never leave something unfinished, or leave angry. In my role I do that. The rest you’ll have to see!” Producer Nakia T. Hamilton said the most difficult challenge while making the movie was “accepting the fact I didn’t have the budget for reshoots, lol.” Let Go and Let God will be available via TVOD (transactional video on demand) on September 3. Further distribution opportunities are in the works. “I am told as things develop,” Hamilton said, “and I’ll be informed on the next distribution window when it enters.” 8/5/19 'FAITH UNDER FIRE' PLANS RED CARPET DEBUT EVENT
Kevin Sorbo and Melissa Kerley, center.
Tickets go on sale August 1 for the September 14 red carpet premiere in Novi, Michigan, of Faith Under Fire, featuring Dean Cain, Kevin Sorbo, Nick Vlassopoulos and young Tenley. This is the first feature film by Melissa Kerley, founder and owner of Generation Courage, who has written a corresponding Bible study available for pre-order the day of the premiere.
The film tells the tale of a widowed fireman (played by Vlassopoulos) whose daughter has cancer (played by Tenley). All proceeds will be donated to The Melanoma Research Foundation. Lead actor, Nick Vlassopoulos, told CM, “I’m excited about the premiere and proud and grateful to be a part of it.” This is the first feature film for Tenley, age 10. “I am very excited for the premiere!” the young actress told CM. “I can’t wait to see the final cut.” Tenley’s mother, Sue, told CM, “It was her first film audition - up until this audition she had only done theater for four years.” Motion picture actress, Emily J. Buckner (Christmas Coupon, The Rapture Chronicles), told CM, “Words cannot express the excitement that I have for the forthcoming film Faith Under Fire. My congratulations go to Generation Courage for their first full length feature film! The experience as I stepped on the set was exciting, professional and inspiring! The story unveils a real struggle, a love, and a faith that many people endure. I pray that this story resonates with audiences towards a deeper faith in the Lord as much as it resonated with me.” Angela Pritchard, the head of Generation Courage marketing, told CM, “I am both honored and excited to be a part of the premiere of Faith Under Fire! Such a powerful movie with a relatable test of faith." Associate Producer, Sheeba Jacob, an actress, model, and inspirational speaker in Texas, will also be flying up for the event. Tickets for the red carpet event can be purchased at the Eventbrite Faith Under Fire Premiere page. For all those unable to attend, actress/producer, Tricia Harmon, who has been recently asked to MC several West Michigan events, will live stream interviews on Creative Motion's YouTube channel. FAITH CONFRONTS FEAR IN 'A MURDER OF INNOCENCE'
Above, actors Frank Chiesurin and Rachel MacMillan play Albert and Aimee Anderson in a motion picture based on a true story. Originally published July 22, 2019.
▶ BY KEVIN SCOTT COLLIER
A Murder of Innocence, a different type of Christian film that presents a dramatic representation of a real life incident, presents a clash between fear and faith. The tale is based on the book Broken, Yet Triumphant, by Aimee Anderson. The motion picture, produced by Justice Pictures and distributed by Vision Films, is available to rent on various streaming video platforms, as well as for purchase on DVD. The picture, directed by Shawn Justice, is written by Justice, with Aimee Anderson, who lived through the actual event. The story reveals a community rocked by the double-homicide of a prominent couple and the struggle of local police to find the killer. As a darkness settles over the town, Albert Anderson, the new resident pastor, must help his church and family overcome the aftershocks brought on by the tragedy. Providing stability, healing and hope, the pastor’s wife, Aimee, must come to grips with her own fear by turning to faith. Producer Shawn Justice found consideration for the project a bit contrary to his perspective as a Christian fiction producer. Justice routinely shied away from reality-based stories, as he imagined they were “too limiting” and “could run the risk of upsetting a few people” if the screenplay strayed too far from the book. “There were things in Aimee's book that I had to compress time-wise, but I tried to stay true to the heart of who Aimee was,” Shawn Justice conveyed to CM. “That's very different than a fictional movie where you can write pretty much what you want and no-one is going to get upset.” Justice kept Aimee not only in the loop, but actively involved, naming her a co-producer. Quite a promotion for the fine lady, who is in her eighties. “It's her legacy," Justice said. "It also helped that she believed in me to do this." A Murder of Innocence isn’t the typical “feel good” Christian film that plays it safe. While everyone desires to live in the Hallmark world, true challenges strike believers. “Jesus wasn't 'safe' in his own parables, so I guess I'm in good company,” he said. “I have to be careful in being critical, but I think as a Christian community we've put an unhealthy amount of value on feeling 'safe' and 'comforted.'" Justice explained that there is nothing wrong with that, but when "it clouds out the realities of a real walk with Jesus," like what Albert and Aimee Anderson went through, "we don't know what to do.” “Paul, in the New Testament, was constantly challenging Jesus’ followers in how they walked their walk and encouraging them to go deeper, to be like deep roots planted,” Justice explained. “So when the storms come we are able to stand. I see my films as doing the same.” A Murder of Innocence presents the conflict between faith and fear. Perhaps a fear for Justice was leaving movie patrons unsatisfied with the outcome of the drama. But such is the real life story, aspects remain unresolved. Actual events don’t always conclude with a neatly tied bow. The movie stars Frank Chiesurin and Rachel MacMillan in the roles of pastor Albert Anderson and his wife Aimee. The lead actors are also real-life husband and wife. Chiesurin, whose career before joining the Christian entertainment industry included mainstream roles in the films Resident Evil: Apocalypse and The Prize Winner of Defiance, conveyed A Murder of Innocence was the couple’s onscreen debut together. “This was the first project Rachel and I collaborated on,” he told CM. “Watching her work on set was a delight for me. She’s a very giving actor and is always striving to better herself in her craft and as a person.” Chiesurin explained that what drew he and his wife to the film was that “it was a Kingdom project” presenting the opportunity to share the screen together. It didn’t hurt that they are both “fans of a good murder-mystery.” The element of fear and faith in the motion picture didn’t frighten the actor, but it did provide insight into the meaning of both. “Fear doesn’t come from God, but if we let Him, He will be right there with us in the middle of it,” Chiesurin said. “He’ll find a way to use it to teach us something about ourselves. We just have to be willing to listen and stop trying to carry the load on our own.” The actor said that working on the motion picture together offered strength to their marriage. “Portraying the love that Aimee and Albert [Anderson] shared gave us some insight into our own relationship,” he explained. “They were a strength for one another and they truly covered each other’s blind spots. It gave us something to strive to emulate.” Frank and Rachel have a simple motto for life. “Put God first, and focus on people, and the rest will follow,” Chiesurin said. “We came away from this project with several amazing relationships that have only grown over the last two years. God is good that way. He brings people together for a reason. Sure, in this instance, it was to honor the Andersons and help tell their story, but in the end, every person who worked on the project touched us and remains with us, in one way or another. I love that.” Patrons will be touched by, and love the power, felt in this movie. “If the film leaves people with a stronger sense of God working in their lives, and a better grasp of their own fears, then mission accomplished,” Chiesurin concluded. Talented actors A Murder of Innocence include Xander Steel, Katie O’Grady, Marc Steele, Scott Galbraith, Jeremy McLaughlin, Lily Haug, Ella Cortese, Cody Leo, Ava Petruna, Brenda McGinnis, Rich Peterson, Dan Russell and others. Music by Zachary Leffew. OPPORTUNITY KNOCKING FOR MICHAEL J. PATTERSON
Michael J. Patterson portrait (by Barry Morgenstein), posters of his latest movies and filming a dining scene for Timbertown. Originally published July 16, 2019.
▶ BY KEVIN SCOTT COLLIER
Michael J. Patterson announces that he has just accepted a role in a movie project that will undoubtedly be the biggest opportunity of his career. But due to signing a non-disclosure agreement, Patterson cannot reveal what it is. The only hint CM was able to shake out was that Patterson “will be doing some detective work alongside another lead." "This would be a major SAG project being filmed in the DC, Maryland and Virginia area,” Patterson conveyed. “I've been cast as one of the leads in this Sci-Fi feature film." Patterson told CM that he’ll be receiving the script shortly and learn more details himself, including the project’s title. "I do remember the audition process and how many folks were in the room with me,” Patterson said. “It was kind of intimidating but I brought my best and they were impressed. Usually, when you do good at an audition in front of many people, you don't get that type of response. Yet, I did! God is good!” Patterson received positive follow-ups from key players via telephone. “I was at work and received a call on my way to lunch from the director and producer,” he said. “I was told how impressed they were with my audition and they also followed the films I had roles in." He told Patterson he had landed a part in the film, but not just a bit role. It would be a lead role with “a lot” of dialogue. “I told the director/producer that I will be more than ready,” Patterson explained. “So you can only imagine how I felt after the call!" And it doesn’t end there on the way up…. "I landed another amazing acting opportunity from my agent, who is working directly with production on their casting, as an agent in this big budget film,” Patterson said. However, readers will have to be patient for details. “Again, I apologize for the secretive stuff, but I have to play by the (NDA) rules.” Motion pictures recently completed and under the actor’s belt include Timbertown (Adam and Jacob Dufour), First Lady (Nina May), and the short films Salute (Anthony Hackett), Elevator Pitch (Nina May), Re-naissance (Nina May) and The Reunion (Cheryl Felicia Rhoads). Rhoads is Patterson’s acting coach and a close friend. “There is a lot to be so thankful for,” Patterson said. “And I'm giving Jesus Christ all the glory.” CM suspects Jesus knows the titles and content of Patterson’s secretive film projects. But He’s not revealing anything … the secret’s safe with Him. |
UTUBESENSATION KIDS WRAPS UP FILMING 1st MOVIE
Crew filming a scene for "Forever and a Day" with lead actor Keegan Bouton. Insets: Zeke Jeremiah and Charlotte Delaney Riggs.
▶ BY KEVIN SCOTT COLLIER
UTubeSensations Kids, founded and directed by Pastor Zeke Jeremiah, has just completed shooting its first feature film, Forever and a Day. The motion picture is about two best friends who battle with home life and struggle to stay afloat during their first year of high school when a devastating, tragic school incident changes everything. The picture features young actors Keegan Bouton and Charlotte Delaney Riggs in leading roles. “It will run over 45 minutes, is all I say at the moment,” Jeremiah told CM. “Viewing [the premiere] will be around the beginning of the year if all goes to plan.” Jeremiah is known for his work in the short films Backfire (2016) and Kllause (2016) and as Director in Unlikely Heroes (2017). His interest in acting was the genesis of creating a video forum for and featuring children. “I was acting for about 3 months and wanted to start a brand that wasn't as harsh, but still put out good, clean, fun content for everyone to enjoy,” Jeremiah said. “After starting that in 2016 we started doing skits and short films.” Since, Jeremiah and his crew have produced over 20 video shorts. “People are loving them and we have been receiving a lot of praise from them on our social media platforms,” he said. In June of this year, he launched a kids production department, UTubeSensations Kids. According to Jeremiah, the goal of UTSKids is to present films that display respect, having fun on set, but produce professional level product. “UTSKids is geared towards kid actors to have hands on experiences along with encouraging them and building them up as actors and individuals,” he explained. The direction is more than just professional, however. “The mission for UTS is to be a Brand that's known for making films out of Love!” Pastor Zeke said. “That everything we do is seen as a positive beacon in the industry, reflecting the Love of God!” UTSKids is currently based in Arlington, Texas, and routinely film around the Dallas area. News updates to follow as the premiere of Forever and a Day draws closer! 7/31/19 PASTOR MEL NOVAK STARS IN 'ROBOWOMAN' MOVIE
Reverend Mel Novak makes an appearance at the premiere of "RoboWoman."
Pastor/actor Mel Novak, who made his screen debut as Intern Smith in the 1967 release The Love-Ins, and subsequently appeared in Jerry Lewis’ 1970 hit Which Way to the Front, was recently at the premiere of the motion picture RoboWoman. The film, released April 11th, stars Novak as Dr. Michaels in the lead male role, alongside actresses Dawna Lee Heising and Brinke Stevens.
Novak, who has wrapped up work for the upcoming movie Los Angeles Shark Attack, was nominated by the Los Angeles Nollywood Awards for best actor in his role as Mr. Kinski in the horror action comedy, An Hour to Kill. The film was released June o last year. Novak's extensive career includes appearances on such popular TV shows as Mannix, Baretta, The Blue Knight and roles in countless motion pictures. Read a recent interview with Mr. Novak via Eye For Film online. CHANDLER/KNUDSEN shoot MOVIE PITCH TRAILER
Jenn Gotzon Chandler and Daniel Knudsen in Michigan, July 26. Inset box: movie poster for Chandler's "The Farmer and The Belle." Originally published July 26, 2019.
▶ BY KRISTEN COLLIER
Award-winning actress, Jenn Gotzon Chandler (Frost/Nixon, My Daddy Is In Heaven), was in Michigan Friday, July 26, to film the pitch trailer for John Wayne Bosley's Angels Among Us. Chandler told CM she was, “Having fun in Michigan, gorilla-style, capturing cinematic magic in alleyways, in a cute town with delicious espresso,” to film the trailer for “the creative John Bosley.” “The pitch trailer shoot was tough and challenging,” Bosley told CM. “The cast and crew had to push each other to bring their best talent and skill to the set.” They shot multiple scenes in multiple locations in six different cities in Michigan over a four day span. “The cast and crew did an extraordinary job,” Bosley said, “even though we faced weather, technical and logistical problems. At the end it became clear, through multiple situations, that God was working all things out for us to achieve what He set before us.” What was it like working with award-winning actress? “Jenn Gotzon Chandler and the rest of the cast surpassed my expectations,” the filmmaker said. “One of the extra tasks we had was to test out the chemistry between Jenn and the child actress, Hallie Jacobs, that we were considering for her character’s daughter. I was surprised how well the two of them hit it off, so well, in a matter of minutes. You’d think they were mother/daughter in real life.” Bosley said their goal for the pitch trailer was to show “the epic nature of how God connects complete strangers as they encounter His angels sending His messages of hope, purpose and love.” He added they are in talks with multiple investors to produce a high quality feature film “that will have the best impact on both Christians and non-Christians.” Accompanying the accomplished actress was fellow award-winning filmmaker and founder of Crystal Creek Media, Daniel Knudsen, serving as Director of Photography for the shoot. Knudsen, whose first major network television movie will air in December (Christmas Coupon), just returned from an immensely successful trailer launch for that film on July 2, in Chennai, India. Christmas Coupon attracted “over two million social media impressions” and “numerous media articles and interviews,” according to a post from Executive Producer, G.B. Thimotheose. Chandler, who’s been compared to Meryl Streep due to her uncanny, chameleon-like talent to become whatever role she’s in, is currently in post-production for the first movie she is producing with her husband, Jim Chandler (Lodge 49, Stranger Things, Drop Dead Diva). Their TV movie, The Farmer and The Belle: Saving Santaland, is based partly on her true life story as a supermodel and marriage to Jim. The project also stars Corbin Bernsen (LA Law, Psych). Bernsen has been in other movies with the Chandlers and has produced several Christian movies via his Home Theater Films production company. Some of Bernsen’s Christian titles include the romantic comedies Christian Mingle (which stars popular Hallmark favorite, Lacy Chabert) and In-Lawfully Yours, as well as the dramatic thriller, Rust. Along with veteran actor Bernsen, the Chandlers shrewdly cast beloved Dukes of Hazzard star, John Schneider, playing himself in their movie. Schneider previously co-starred with Jenn in the powerfully haunting movie, Doonby (2013). For Jim and Jenn Chandler, this project is more than just a motion picture. It is way more than just a franchise replete with books, jewelry, apparel and other merchandise in various stages of development. This hard-working, dynamic duo of Christian film production have launched a critical movement. The objective is to create “a pathway to true beauty [#TrueBeauty] and real love based on God’s Truth through movies, books & jewelry,” according to The Farmer and the Belle Facebook page. The movement intends to help young (and presumably not-so-young) girls overcome the pernicious lie of the devil, that personal appearance equates value, teaching self-esteem and inward beauty of a quiet and gentle spirit. As Scripture says, “Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel—rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God” (I Peter 3:3-4). CM is keeping a very close eye on the Chandlers, and Knudsen, owner of Crystal Creek Media. We know these young people–and a handful of others like them–are the future of Christian movie production. Knudsen’s Christmas Coupon movie is also executive produced by Tel K. Ganesan, founder off Kyyba Films, and features lead actors Courtney Mathews (Bennett’s Song, Baby Bulldog) as “Alison Grant” and and Aaron Noble (Wolf Hound, The Creative Lives) as “Ivan Hall.” HORROR FILMMAKER BILL REBANE RESTORES CHURCH
Producer and Filmmaker Bill Rebane's mission is to restore the Estonian Evangelical Martin Luther Church, in Gleason, Wisconsin. Originally published July 12, 2019.
▶ BY KEVIN SCOTT COLLIER
I recently had the pleasure to interview horror filmmaker Bill Rebane for a book that I published in June. But there’s more to Rebane than just ended up on celluloid during his 60 years as a producer. A tale of faith, his Lutheran roots, and restoration. Rebane has amassed a “cult” following, for lack of a better word, for his b-movie classics Monster A - Go Go, Invasion From Inner Earth, The Capture of Bigfoot and especially The Giant Spider Invasion. William “Bill” Rebane entered this world on February 8, 1937. His early years were, at times, like a real-life horror story. “I was born in Latvia, and spent most of my young life traveling in a horse-drawn wagon near Russia,” Rebane conveyed. Rebane was raised in a Christian family by his Estonian father, and Latvian mother. They were ardent worshipers and members of the Lutheran Church. Faith has remained a significant part of Rebane’s life. “It is of considerable importance,” he said. “It got me through the hard times, very much so. My parents, my grandparents, were all very faith oriented. And without that, I don’t think we would have made it through the rough times in World War II.” Aside from Heaven, Rebane experienced Hell at an early age. “I moved to, and lived in, Germany the end of 1944, and went through the battle of Berlin,” he recalled. “It was near the end of the war. Hamburg, Germany was in flames.” The notion that the filmmaker harbors affection for the horror genre cannot be further from the truth. “There was once an article [about me] that reported on the horror movie producer who didn’t like horror. And, it’s true,” Rebane explained. “I’ve seen enough horror when I was a kid. It was a nightmare, and still haunts me.” Rebane’s initial intentions were more lighthearted and melodic. “Actually, I wanted to make musicals and comedies instead of sci-fi and monster movies,” he said. True. Rebane began his involvement in entertainment first doing a little live stage acting, singing and tap dancing. Some of those efforts found inclusion in Chicago commercial television. Rebane attended school in Germany from 1945 until 1952, when he first journeyed to the United States of America. “I didn’t speak English fluently at the time,” he conveyed. “I was the key person to take over the Germania Broadcast, the biggest German broadcast in America. I was flying back and forth to Germany for family reasons and I was introduced to some film people there, and I got hooked up with a film producer, basically as an apprentice.” It was Rebane’s love of American cinema that most helped him learn English. “That was the key to me learning the language,” he said. His love for American cinema also compelled him to become an independent filmmaker. He’s still making movies today, his latest being the documentary Silver Street: The Lotta Morgan Story. A longtime resident of the state of Wisconsin, Rebane ran for the office of governor in 1979, and 2002, as the American Reform candidate. Making his home and office in Saxon, Wisconsin, Rebane’s current thriller is the restoration of the more-than-century-old Estonian Evangelical Martin Luther Church in nearby Gleason. His ancestors left a footprint here long before Bill Rebane stepped onto American soil. In 1907 Reverend Hans Rebane participated in the establishment of the first Estonian Evangelical Church in America. “He was the first pastor that initiated the building of the church,” Rebane said. “He was my great-uncle.” The church was a weathered shell when Rebane stepped in with the notion to return it to its once heralded glory. He continues in an ongoing effort to restore the historic landmark, the Estonian Evangelical Martin Luther Church, located in Gleason, Wisconsin. “It’s a little slow, we put a new foundation under the building and we’re waiting to get enough donations to redo the roof, replace the shingles," Rebane explained. “My Estonian friends, volunteers in Chicago, some of which don’t speak English very well, when they started working on the church they were very enthusiastic, wonderful people." Rebane said that initial work on the church slanted it to an Estonian “club” mentality that shunned and offended the neighboring community. He desires the church to be open for all people, no matter ethnicity or denomination. “I’ve been working to undo that the last couple of years,” Rebane said. “We’ve had 1,500 visitors from spring to summer there. It is an important, historical site.” Bill Rebane continues his efforts to raise funds to complete the project. Those interested in lending a hand or donating financial support can call 715-893-2254 or email baje@centurytel.net. |
