Milford to hit the big screen
The film “Homerun Show Down” is a huge hit with Milford area residents who have been flocking about town for a glimpse of Hollywood film making.
The independent film is about two little league coaches played by actors Dean Cain and Matthew Lillard. The characters are not only brothers but arch rivals. The action takes place in Milford’s Central Park, the now vacant Baker Elementary School and O’Callaghan’s Irish Pub, which closed in February 2009 and has been transformed into Big Al’s Bar and Restaurant.
“Big Al’s is owned by the brother’s father, played by Barry Bostwick,” said Dena Hysell, producer. “The brothers are competing to win a sports bar, so much of the action takes place right here. Baseballs, jerseys and lots of sports photos transformed the Irish pub into a comfortable sports bar.”
More than 150 children, mostly boys ages 10 to 13, were cast to play baseball in the film. Joshua Saba of Farmington Hills landed a speaking role. Joshua says the days were long but exciting.
“I played Dave, who is
9 years old,” Joshua said.
“I was the announcer and interviewed people. I enjoyed it very much and would like to be in another movie.”
Charles Gertner, 11, of West Bloomfield Township, says he was thrilled to play a pitcher in the film. He offered a few acting suggestions to director Oz Scott.
“I asked if I could throw my glove at someone after getting some bad news, and he said I could,” Charles said. “I thought of a couple of other things and he said he liked my ideas and put them in the movie.”
Co-producer Joe Gressis recalled a casting call with more than 100 young hopefuls showing up. He says he could tell within seconds who could handle lines and who would be playing ball.
“The kids were great and really worked hard,” Gressis said. “We love working in Michigan. People have a great work ethic and are anxious to learn about the business.”
The village of Milford welcomed the “Homerun Show Down” production, and in return the cast and crew explored the local restaurants, coffee shops and stores.
“We weren’t recognized like the cast so we enjoyed slipping into restaurants and listening to people talk about the movie being made here in town,” Hysell said.
“We are having a great time and have enjoyed seeing this beautiful state in our downtime.”
Village Manager Arthur Shufflebarger calls the movie a great attraction. Not only were vacant buildings utilized, but people are thrilled to see a film being made in their community.
“I saw a mother bring her children to the park while they were filming so the children could see how it’s done,” Shufflebarger said. They didn’t have to fly five hours to see a movie being made when it is happening right here.”
The producers say a Michigan premiere may be possible. They are planning for a box office opening next July Fourth weekend.
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The film “Homerun Show Down” is a huge hit with Milford area residents who have been flocking about town for a glimpse of Hollywood film making.
The independent film is about two little league coaches played by actors Dean Cain and Matthew Lillard. The characters are not only brothers but arch rivals. The action takes place in Milford’s Central Park, the now vacant Baker Elementary School and O’Callaghan’s Irish Pub, which closed in February 2009 and has been transformed into Big Al’s Bar and Restaurant.
“Big Al’s is owned by the brother’s father, played by Barry Bostwick,” said Dena Hysell, producer. “The brothers are competing to win a sports bar, so much of the action takes place right here. Baseballs, jerseys and lots of sports photos transformed the Irish pub into a comfortable sports bar.”
More than 150 children, mostly boys ages 10 to 13, were cast to play baseball in the film. Joshua Saba of Farmington Hills landed a speaking role. Joshua says the days were long but exciting.
“I played Dave, who is
9 years old,” Joshua said.
“I was the announcer and interviewed people. I enjoyed it very much and would like to be in another movie.”
Charles Gertner, 11, of West Bloomfield Township, says he was thrilled to play a pitcher in the film. He offered a few acting suggestions to director Oz Scott.
“I asked if I could throw my glove at someone after getting some bad news, and he said I could,” Charles said. “I thought of a couple of other things and he said he liked my ideas and put them in the movie.”
Co-producer Joe Gressis recalled a casting call with more than 100 young hopefuls showing up. He says he could tell within seconds who could handle lines and who would be playing ball.
“The kids were great and really worked hard,” Gressis said. “We love working in Michigan. People have a great work ethic and are anxious to learn about the business.”
The village of Milford welcomed the “Homerun Show Down” production, and in return the cast and crew explored the local restaurants, coffee shops and stores.
“We weren’t recognized like the cast so we enjoyed slipping into restaurants and listening to people talk about the movie being made here in town,” Hysell said.
“We are having a great time and have enjoyed seeing this beautiful state in our downtime.”
Village Manager Arthur Shufflebarger calls the movie a great attraction. Not only were vacant buildings utilized, but people are thrilled to see a film being made in their community.
“I saw a mother bring her children to the park while they were filming so the children could see how it’s done,” Shufflebarger said. They didn’t have to fly five hours to see a movie being made when it is happening right here.”
The producers say a Michigan premiere may be possible. They are planning for a box office opening next July Fourth weekend.
