The Rogue
Tell us a little about the Cottonwood story without giving too much away. What drew you to the project in the first place?
I think because it was such a hard time trying to survive the Great Depression and Dustbowl era. It’s a part of our history but until you see a film like Cottonwood you really understand and feel what these people endured. Author Timothy Egan’s novel “The Worst Hard Time” describes it best. Our film Cottonwood is a strong character driven film dealing with racial injustice and one man Sheriff Rube Whitlock who must decide what is right and what is law… Most importantly Cottonwood cuts to the base of our humanity, it is an opportunity to impact, teach, and educate to fight against racism…
What is the status of the film at this point? Who has signed on for the film?
Film status is pre-production, cast attached; Louis Gossett Jr., Anthony Michael Hall, Alison Eastwood, Ethan Suplee, Joe Perry, Waylon Payne, Stephen Boss, Codie Rimmer, “Lazy” Lester Johnson, Rick Gifford, IMAJ, John Eslinger, John-Paul Howard, Colby Sheppard, Kari Irwin and Father Jim Sichko. The lead cast has not been attached yet. Cast is listed on our website and IMDb page and the films website www.cottonwoodfilm.com.
Why are you choosing to do this outside the normal Hollywood channels? Do you think more people will be doing Indie Projects?
Because being an Independent film producer gives me more freedom with the creative process of making the film. Although, we work with industry professionals to assist in casting, financing and distribution we can still maintain the overall direction of the film. There are thousands of independent film projects out there and with the direction of social media and the rapid growth of technology indie films will continue to grow…
What are your hopes and dreams for the film?
Well first of all it gets made LOL. But seriously, I feel we have an amazing story that needs to be told. The films message is about humanity and making a difference. Cottonwood has award winning potential. It will make the audience laugh and cry with a surprise ending that will resonate with viewers long after seeing the film. I feel Cottonwood will have a long shelf life and may even be shown in schools to promote and fight against Hate and Racial Injustice sadly something we still live with in today’s society .
How can people help through the Indie GoGo Campaign?
Most importantly by making a donation at any level helps… I believe once they see the films website and understand how important it is to move to the next level with the film project by attaching a strong director that can bring this film to the big screen; to attach our lead talent for the main roles will help us to secure the films budget of $10 million. We have distributors lined up once the film is complete…
The film Cottonwood is proud to support and bring awareness to two very important foundations and causes; Louis Gossett, Jr’s ERACISM FOUNDATION and Jeff Bridges NO KID HUNGRY FOUNDATION. We experience both issues in our film!
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