April 29, 2009
Appy Festival Covered by Nationally Syndicated Show
Two of Three Feature Winners Tackled Overcoming Substance Abuse… and its Consequences
By Tony Rutherford
Huntingtonnews.net Entertainment Editor
Although many media now focus on the so-called hillbilly documentary “The Wild and Wonderful Whites of West Virginia” which has been well received at the Tribecca Film Festival, the Appalachian Film Festival, which wrapped its sixth annual presentation last weekend, avoided those stereotypes.
The festival is open to filmmakers from or shot in the 13 state Appalachian region.
Among the features shown, “Teen-Aged” received its first public screening. Written by Lane Middleton and directed by his dad, Joseph (“Just Before Dawn”) Middleton , the production depicts the peer pressures faced by high school age students to partake of various substance abuse and other risk taking behaviors.
However, the “jock” lead suffers severe injuries in a car accident; he had been drinking. Lucky to survive, Lane now contends with having no driver’s license and an epitome --- he swears off drinking alcohol. Friends in the elite clic continue pressuring the recovered victim, who now takes an interest in the arts by renewing a friendship with a artsy gal who he knew in elementary school.
Though the production does not touch specifically on bullying, “Teen Aged” illustrates the emotional pressure faced even in the choice of “friends” who do or do not conform.
The teen substance abuse drama won third place at the festival. Shot in North Carolina, the showing attracted the nationally syndicated “Let’s Just Talk” to Huntington for the screening and to cover the awards ceremony. Kathryn Raaker, the show’s hostess, interviewed Lane Middleton, Joseph Middleton, Martha King, Vickie Hannah and Josh Michael Keith at the historic Keith Albee Performing Arts Center.
Due to the underlying Christian theme, the hosts of “Let’s Just Talk” have suggested that it should be shown at high schools and churches around the nation.
Glen Reynolds and Zac Reeder of Circus Road Films have signed to represent the exclusive world-wide marketing rights for "Teen-Aged". Glen and Zac both have long and successful careers marketing independently produced movies like "Teen-Aged". They bring a wealth of valuable connections and expertise to our unique and entertaining movie. See www.circusroadfilms.com.
TARGET PRACTICE
Consider a worst case scenario: Unknown home grown terrorists rehearse for an attack in isolated forest regions across the country. That’s the premise for “Target Practice,” which turns a weekend outdoor adventure into a massacre.
The action film has a strong cast and production values. It pits a group of weekend woodsmen against well trained killers in waiting. Not only does the premise frighten (and ignite real fears), but the sniper cat and mouse maneuvering keeps viewers eyeballs on the screen, as this action flick, has a story that tosses not just bullets but curves.
BRONX PARADISE
The first place winner in the feature competition depicts the story of a man who has “been there, done that” when it comes to the substance abuse pitfalls which have grown in Huntington. In fact, the star/producer expressed surprise that our city suffered from problems which have now been conquered in the Bronx… after decades of battle.
This is not an easy film to watch as it is gritty, grimy, and drags you down into the dealer perspective of substance abuse… and the difficulty and strength necessary to break free.
HNN will have in depth interviews coming with some of the filmmakers who visited Huntington for the Appalachian Film Festival, including guest artist Danny Boyd.
For now, enjoy a look at the festival, the Keith, and the award’s celebration in this extensive photo gallery. Look carefully, you’ll see Huey Perry, the Huntington man who wrote “Blaze.”
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Make HNN Your Homepage (IE Users Only)
Appy Festival Covered by Nationally Syndicated Show
Two of Three Feature Winners Tackled Overcoming Substance Abuse… and its Consequences
By Tony Rutherford
Huntingtonnews.net Entertainment Editor
Although many media now focus on the so-called hillbilly documentary “The Wild and Wonderful Whites of West Virginia” which has been well received at the Tribecca Film Festival, the Appalachian Film Festival, which wrapped its sixth annual presentation last weekend, avoided those stereotypes.
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Among the features shown, “Teen-Aged” received its first public screening. Written by Lane Middleton and directed by his dad, Joseph (“Just Before Dawn”) Middleton , the production depicts the peer pressures faced by high school age students to partake of various substance abuse and other risk taking behaviors.
However, the “jock” lead suffers severe injuries in a car accident; he had been drinking. Lucky to survive, Lane now contends with having no driver’s license and an epitome --- he swears off drinking alcohol. Friends in the elite clic continue pressuring the recovered victim, who now takes an interest in the arts by renewing a friendship with a artsy gal who he knew in elementary school.
Though the production does not touch specifically on bullying, “Teen Aged” illustrates the emotional pressure faced even in the choice of “friends” who do or do not conform.
The teen substance abuse drama won third place at the festival. Shot in North Carolina, the showing attracted the nationally syndicated “Let’s Just Talk” to Huntington for the screening and to cover the awards ceremony. Kathryn Raaker, the show’s hostess, interviewed Lane Middleton, Joseph Middleton, Martha King, Vickie Hannah and Josh Michael Keith at the historic Keith Albee Performing Arts Center.
Due to the underlying Christian theme, the hosts of “Let’s Just Talk” have suggested that it should be shown at high schools and churches around the nation.
Glen Reynolds and Zac Reeder of Circus Road Films have signed to represent the exclusive world-wide marketing rights for "Teen-Aged". Glen and Zac both have long and successful careers marketing independently produced movies like "Teen-Aged". They bring a wealth of valuable connections and expertise to our unique and entertaining movie. See www.circusroadfilms.com.
TARGET PRACTICE
Consider a worst case scenario: Unknown home grown terrorists rehearse for an attack in isolated forest regions across the country. That’s the premise for “Target Practice,” which turns a weekend outdoor adventure into a massacre.
The action film has a strong cast and production values. It pits a group of weekend woodsmen against well trained killers in waiting. Not only does the premise frighten (and ignite real fears), but the sniper cat and mouse maneuvering keeps viewers eyeballs on the screen, as this action flick, has a story that tosses not just bullets but curves.
BRONX PARADISE
The first place winner in the feature competition depicts the story of a man who has “been there, done that” when it comes to the substance abuse pitfalls which have grown in Huntington. In fact, the star/producer expressed surprise that our city suffered from problems which have now been conquered in the Bronx… after decades of battle.
This is not an easy film to watch as it is gritty, grimy, and drags you down into the dealer perspective of substance abuse… and the difficulty and strength necessary to break free.
HNN will have in depth interviews coming with some of the filmmakers who visited Huntington for the Appalachian Film Festival, including guest artist Danny Boyd.
For now, enjoy a look at the festival, the Keith, and the award’s celebration in this extensive photo gallery. Look carefully, you’ll see Huey Perry, the Huntington man who wrote “Blaze.”
Share This Story:
Make HNN Your Homepage (IE Users Only)
