SUN CHOKE Set Visit
Don’t get me wrong – I hate puff pieces. Can’t stand them. And that is certainly not my intention here. However, I can’t help but gush a little on this particular occasion. I recently visited the set of a micro budget Indie called SUN CHOKE. It’s a psychological horror film with a great script and after a recent set visit, I am more than pleased with my decision to become involved in this project. The director, cast and crew are absolutely working at the top of their game. I cannot believe the caliber of work these guys are pulling off for virtually “no budget.” We’re in an awesome house across the street from Catherine Bigelow and a hop, skip and jump away from Jack’s place (Yes, the Jack) on the famous “Bad Boy Drive” where Nicholson, Warren Beatty and Brando used to live. And also where Polanski had some kind of problem many moons ago.
Anyway, SUN CHOKE tells the story of a mentally unstable young woman, Janie, who has been under a sort of informal house arrest by her lifelong caretaker and former nanny who raised her, Irma, after she tried to harm herself in a mysterious incident that is implied but never really shown. Irma decides that Janie is possibly well enough to leave the house and begins letting her out in small increments. Unfortunately, it seems that Irma was mistaken as Janie begins stalking an attractive young lady, Savannah, who she feels a mysterious yet profound bond with.
Without selling the film too hard (I’m not, I’m just really extremely proud) this movie is super creepy with outstanding performances and unbelievable Von Trier inspired cinematography. The lead role, Janie is played by the lovely Sarah Hagan who is best known for playing “Millie” on FREAKS AND GEEKS. Sarah gives a performance unlike any I have ever scene, equal parts real, honest vulnerability mixed with cold, calculating Patrick Bateman-esque psychosis. The caretaker, Irma, is played by none other than “Scream Queen” Barbara Crampton! Yes, the star of Stuart Gordon’s classic RE-ANIMATOR. Barbara has never played a “bad guy” before and without giving away any spoilers – well, you haven’t seen her like this before. The poor stalked girl and Janie’s main target is played by the sexy Sara Malakul Lane who besides playing Eric Roberts’ daughter in SHARKTOPUS, she just signed on to play the female lead in the upcoming reboot of KICKBOXER starring opposite JCVD!
Anyway, okay – I’m totally gushing. This did turn out to be a puff piece. But really it’s a cool, unique, crazy, creepy horror film that is unlike anything you have ever seen before and that I can’t wait for the world to see it. The women are beautiful, the creep factor is ultra-high and the blood and body count is very generous. And intense. And repulsive. I can’t wait for SUN CHOKE to hit the festival circuit so you can all see what I’m talking about.
