Arts and Entertainment

Feature film made only by Michiganders, in Michigan

By Elijah Brumback GVL Staff Writer
1/27/2010

The thriller "Oblivion" is unique in that unlike most features made in state, both the cast and crew are entirely from Michigan, as a result of a conscious decision by the film's first-time writer, director and producer Heather Robinson.

"The truth is that there is so much talent here to showcase already," Robinson said. "I didn't feel like I had to go outside of the state to do the casting."

Robinson, who has a background in theater and previously worked as a casting director, wrote her screenplay in a little more than 1.5 years. The premise, she said, stemmed from a nightmare she had, which prompted her to begin writing the psychological thriller.

Robinson described "Oblivion" as a thriller about a serial killer, with a journey through the mind of the main character and his struggle to try and save the people around him.

"There are going to be some bloody moments," Robinson said.

For Robinson, making this film is not simply about getting recognition. One of her motives for taking on all the responsibilities is she wants to showcase Michigan and its talent.

"I want to try and take away the negative aspect people have about some of Michigan's cities," Robinson said. "There is a lot of history and beauty here. It's not all bad as people might think when they hear about places like Detroit and Ypsilanti."

To show the diversity of Michigan's cities, Robinson and her crew chose to shoot all across southeast Michigan, including Ann Arbor, Waterford, Garden City, Royal Oak and Dearborn.

Robinson added without her talented crew she believes there would not have been a movie at all. A lot of the cast and crew hold full-time jobs or are going to school outside of filmmaking and it takes a lot of volunteer time to make everything happen.

"I hope the people who eventually see this film appreciate it," said actress Rachel Sowers. "Lots of people are donating their time and most everyone is unpaid until the end of production."

Sowers said she hopes the film becomes successful and builds some regional recognition for her and for everyone else involved.

"It's a good thing that we are so localized," Sowers said. "If we weren't I don't think we would be as close."

Assistant director Tim Roe described his experience on set as similar to a playground for him. Roe said Robinson has been a god to him in providing him the opportunity to work on the project, and he is excited to see where the film goes.

"I hope that in the end it all goes well, but even if it doesn't, I will still be proud to have worked on this film with these people," Roe said. "I want to see the studios in Michigan survive though it's going to be tough in the face of the economy."

Robinson and crew hope to be wrapped with filming by the second week of February. The red carpet premiere of their film is scheduled for July 15 at the Emagine Theater in Canton, Mich.

After the premiere, Robinson said she would like to get the film into as many film festivals as she can in hopes of acquiring distribution.

ebrumback@lanthorn.com

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