CHLOE seeks crowd for concert
With so many local filmmakers in Champaign-Urbana, it’s not too difficult to get involved with their work in one way or another. Later this evening, behind-the-scenes enthusiasts and general movie lovers alike will get an opportunity to do just that!
THE GARDEN OF CHLOE, a feature-length film from the mind of Urbana director and cinematographer Johnny Robinson (CELESTE ABOVE, HOUSE OF THADDEUS) will be shooting today, Saturday, March 22, at the Independent Media Center (IMC) located in the downtown Urbana Post Office building. Performing for the scene will be several lead actors, including star Kelly Lynn Hogan, as well as The Almost “A” Quintet, a local gypsy jazz band featuring Dorothy Martirano, Chris Reyman, George Turner, Armand Beaudoin, and Ricardo Flores. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. with filming beginning at 7:30 p.m. and the live, one-hour concert commencing at 8 p.m. Voluntary donations will be accepted to support the musicians.
The production is also looking for extras to take part as audience members for the evening. “Come dressed for summer. Light colors, short sleeves, sundresses, open-toed shoes, sneakers, casual but not too casual,” posted assistant director Cara Day to the CHLOE Facebook “Extras” group. “No logos or bright colors. Feel free to bring a friend/spouse.” Individuals who cannot make this “open call” IMC shoot may join the group to be kept up-to-date on future needs; be sure to scroll down for links to a brief “virtual casting” survey that will help the production get to know you quickly.
Robinson is also fundraising for CHLOE itself through Indiegogo. “We have this idea of an artist as somebody who expresses something that is real to them,” said Robinson in his “Director’s Statement” video on the Indiegogo page. “I don’t think about if the rest of the world wants to see it, because there is a micro-macro thing that, if it is meaningful to someone, other people are going to resonate. You just have to count on that.” As of yesterday, March 21, $1,360 of his $4,000 goal has been raised for the film with 21 days left.
A summary of CHLOE on Indiegogo reads, “Chloe, a free-spirited performing arts teacher, and her companions move to a small town – her childhood home. But their eclectic, bohemian life seems at odds with the small-town community. These conflicts and contentions reignite Chloe’s fears of expression, disclosure, and even the performance of her art. Chloe’s hopes and plans for the future are threatened.”
More information on the cast, crew, themes, and production needs for THE GARDEN OF CHLOE can be located on this Web site or their primary Facebook page. A “proof of concept” scene created prior to the beginning of production can be viewed below that will give you an idea of the filmmakers’ approach.
~ Lauren Laws, with Jason Pankoke