NBC’s “The Office” has already brought plenty of attention to Scranton. Soon, you’ll be able to see many Scranton-area hot spots like AV Restaurant, Egan’s Bar and The Bog and locations like Lackawanna County Prison and the Scranton Lace building on the big screen, too.
These are just some of the spots featured in “Forged,” an independent film that is being shot in Scranton. The cast and crew members of “Forged” will wrap up about a month of work this week. They have been filming since Feb. 6.
Initially, the film was to be shot in Texas, where the atmosphere was hot and dusty. Executive producer and Scranton native Joe Van Wie convinced director William Wedig to consider Scranton, where the atmosphere was cold, dark and snowy. They agreed that the dismal weather that we’re used to here in NEPA was exactly what this film needed.
“Scranton is another character in the film,” explained James Holeva, the film’s publicist. “The characters’ lives are bleak like the weather, and the snow adds another dimension.”
According to Holeva, “Forged” can be compared to popular flicks like “Fargo” and “No Country for Old Men.” The plot is about a man who was imprisoned for the murder of his wife. He is released after eight years behind bars to find the same dangerous crew he left behind waiting for him, which could land him back in the slammer. It is a story about redemption, as the main character tries to reconnect with his teenage son and get a fresh start.
“This is the kind of film that goes to a film festival like Sundance or Cannes and does extremely well,” said Holeva.
The main character, Chuco, is played by Manny Perez. Perez has garnered much respect in the entertainment industry for his roles in “Third Watch,” “Rescue Me,” “Law and Order SVU,” “CSI Miami” and a supporting role in “Pride and Glory” with Colin Farrell.
According to Perez, the best part about shooting in Scranton is the cooperation and enthusiasm of the community.
“Everyone is so behind the project and willing to give anything to be part of the project,” said Perez. “At the end, we will have a film that looks like it was shot for millions [of dollars], because of the help from the community. The production value will look amazing, thanks to the city.”
The son, Machito, is played by 13-year-old actor David Castro. Castro is from Long Island, N.Y., and says that he has never been to Pennsylvania prior to making the film. His mom got him into acting when he was four. In “Forged,” he is left orphaned when his dad murders his mom and is sent to prison.
There are many seasoned actors on the set, but according to Castro they never make him feel uncomfortable. Although he is young, he is no stranger to the business. He has been in a few movies, including last year’s chick flick, “27 Dresses.” Still, he said that independent films are his favorite because of the freedom and creativity.
“The guys on the set are really nice to me,” Castro said. “[The role] makes you appreciate your parents if you have good ones.”
Other names you may recognize are Margo Martindale, who played supporting roles in films like “Million Dollar Baby,” “Dead Man Walking,” “28 Days,” “Proof of Life” and “Practical Magic,” and Jaime Tirelli, known for his work in “Carlito’s Way” with Al Pacino, “Definitely, Maybe,” “Oz” and “Law and Order.”
Holeva describes the film as a gritty, action-packed drama.
“Although there is plenty of blood, fighting and guns, it’s really about the acting,” he added. “It’s a human interest story.”
The cast and crew have been spending five or six hours a day on location, sometimes putting in 12-hour shifts. The work does not stop there. They have been spending a lot of time mingling with the locals. Recently, there were meet-and-greet parties at Mohegan Sun and the Holiday Inn in Dunmore.
It’s not too late for you to get in on the action. The entire cast and crew of “Forged” will hang out at The Woodlands Wednesday night to celebrate as their hard work comes to an end. They’ll be more than happy to sign autographs, take pictures and talk to you about their work at the wrap party, sponsored by Lion Brewery. Join them from 9 p.m.-close at The Woodlands, then tag along after hours to Gentleman’s Club 10, which is open until 4 a.m.
You can follow “Forged” at www.forgedmovie.blogspot.com.
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