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Chatham

Slasher movie being filmed at Chatham Jail

The Chatham Jail will be given new life this Fall when it becomes the site of a slasher movie being filmed in Chatham.

Local filmmaker Daniel Turres of Pageman Productions told CK News Today the movie will be about social media influencers who break into the abandoned jail to create fresh content, but get surprised by an inmate hiding in the bowels of the jail who is starved for fresh meat.

The yet-to-be-titled movie will have a union cast, both local and from the U.S., and will star Joelle Farrow and Doug Vermeeren.

Turres said the movie should be very gory and with lots of fake blood.

"It's very exciting and it goes back to being the classic horror film where it's full of practical effects and has a story that keeps you moving forward," said Turres.

Turres said it's a passion project for him and the biggest production of his life so far.

"It's a fun horror film for both new fans and hardcore fans, they're just going to have a great time. It's definitely a great movie for the theatres," he added.

Turres said some of the cast and talent is local and the goal is to eventually grow it.

"Even though we're working with a union cast, there are some cast members that live in and around the area of Chatham that are part of the union and now that they have an opportunity to act in a film that's in their backyard, it's even more enticing just because the GTA is overflowing with so many productions," said Turres.

Turres hopes the film is ready for the big screen by February 2024.

He said genre horror movies are not just for Halloween anymore and are a fraction of the cost compared to Marvel and Hollywood studio films.

The movie's name will be released at a Red Carpet Gala at the Capitol Theatre in Chatham Friday night.

Turres said the Gala will serve as a vehicle to pitch the movie to the industry and those wanting to support the film.

He added the film is a partnership with the newly launched municipal Filming Locally in Chatham-Kent (FLiCK) office in Chatham. The opening of the FLiCK office was officially announced by the municipality on Thursday afternoon. It will support the growth of the film industry in the community by offering film production companies services to support their projects, including location scouting, permit assistance, and access to local crews, talent, and equipment.

Turres said the municipality and the Mayor's office have been wonderful to work with and have been very supportive.

"Chatham-Kent offers a captivating backdrop for filmmakers, with its diverse landscapes, historic sites, and welcoming community. The launch of FLiCK demonstrates the Municipality's dedication to supporting the film industry and attracting creative talent to the area."

Turres has moved to Chatham from London and said he plans on staying at least two years and doing the post-production in Chatham.

Anyone interested in being part of the production can reach Turres at turres@pagemanproductions.ca.

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