"Trust" films at Dexter High School: a report from the scene
David Schwimmer
The film tells the story of a young girl who becomes a victim of an online predator, and the emotional fallout that results. While the Dexter High film set is closed to press, DHS Principal William "Kit" Moran responded to e-mail questions from AnnArbor.com about the crew's first day on site.
Q: What time did the film crew arrive to start work this morning? A: Bright and early at 6:30 a.m.
Q: Approximately how big is the film crew? A: About 100.
Q: What parts of the school have they been working in today (Tuesday)? A: The exterior by our flag pole, the courtyard, and an interior classroom.
Q: What kind of shots/scenes have they worked on thus far? A: The kids being dropped off at school, a scene where the young girl is escorted out by the police (she's not the one in trouble) and a scene in a classroom where she is pulled from class.
Q: Is the production company paying for the use of the school? If yes, how much? A: $1000/day.
Q: How many students were part of the filming? A: Probably 50+ extras.
Q: How have students responded to the film crew being in their school today? A: They are incredibly excited. It has been a ball.
Q: Have you been sitting in on most of the filming? What were your impressions of the process? A: I've been running a high school and monitoring movies. A crazy day. The crew is fantastic and appreciative that we allowed them the access we did.
Q: How much longer will the film crew be working today (Tuesday)? A: They work a solid 12 hours. Finish tonight at 7:20 p.m.
Q: Were either Clive Owen or Catherine Keener on set today? A: No. I don't think they'll be here at all.
Q: Did things generally go smoothly and as planned, or did any problems arise? A: Zero problems, knock on wood!
Q: Did the crew use the cafeteria to break for lunch, or position themselves elsewhere? A: They ate lunch in our band room. It all worked.
Jenn McKee is the entertainment digital journalist for AnnArbor.com. Reach her at jennmckee@annarbor.com or 734-623-2546, and follow her on Twitter @jennmckee.
Comments
Moose
Thu, Nov 12, 2009 : 9:42 a.m.
"Paradoxically, reducing tax rates has been shown to increase government revenue." False. Constantly hyped by the anti tax crowd, when Ronald Reagan cut taxes it resulted in huge government deficits and unsustainable consumer spending. Laffers curve is voodoo economics. It's great that movies are being made in Michigan and I hope that film production companies realize that Ann Arbor has an international reputation for film lovers and appreciation of all kinds of movies.
larry
Wed, Nov 11, 2009 : 6:11 p.m.
Glad someone brought up tax breaks. Michigan business tax rates are amongst the highest in the country. Why don't we simply reduce existing tax rates for all businesses, instead of just to entice new businesses? Paradoxically, reducing tax rates has been shown to increase government revenue.
Bear
Wed, Nov 11, 2009 : 3:49 p.m.
The movie industry isn't so "transient" as you would be led to believe. One of the purposes of the tax rebate was to encourage the industry to build infrastructure, like studios and training centers and such. Once the infrastructure is in place, there is that much more incentive to stay. Louisiana doesn't have the edge on tax breaks anymore, but there are still movies being shot there, mainly because of the availability and proximity to the necessary skilled workers and infrastructure that the initial tax break provided. The tax break, 40% involves only the production costs of the movie in using local labor, materials, locations, catering, etc., so it isn't a blank check sort of thing. The rebate has been hugely successful, with many major films (not just 'b' movies that couldn't afford to film anywhere else.) being shot here. And local businesses and citizens have been benefitting directly from the increase in business directly attributable to film production. Yet you have some people who want to do away with something that is obviously working. imagine, a crew of 100 and how much money put into the area economy each day. From subs at the local deli, to hotel rooms, car rentals and a variety of ancillary businesses and services that benefit from the movie industry being here. Even more important is the JOBS that are filled by LOCAL workers, supporting their families and the MIchigan economy. That is the most important part; the jobs. MIchigan is on the map for something other than being the state with the highest unemployment rate, we are doing something to keep the economy going, putting people to work. Lets keep that going.
Vernice
Wed, Nov 11, 2009 : 1:36 p.m.
Where did you guys find David's yearbook picture?
Charley Sullivan
Wed, Nov 11, 2009 : 1:30 p.m.
Only $1000/day for a site-use fee for a major film?? Wow, that seems a little skimpy, given the likelihood of a large budget...
mytwocents
Wed, Nov 11, 2009 : 12:56 p.m.
The crew has been fantastic! All of them have been friendly, patient, and understanding with both students and staff. I think students benefit from the experience.
Rebecca
Wed, Nov 11, 2009 : 12:52 p.m.
I was an extra yesterday and Catherine Keener was there yesterday and she was just lovely....I hope the movie industry is here to stay!
Otto Mobeal
Wed, Nov 11, 2009 : 12:08 p.m.
If a huge tax rebate will bring in the movies, why don't we do this for other businesses? The movie industry is transient, they will go to where the next better deal is, but most other businesses won't leave once they are set-up and operating. It could be targeted to start-ups in new industries.
aareader
Wed, Nov 11, 2009 : 10:50 a.m.
Keep the movies coming! It should be great PR plus dollars for Dexter / Ann Arbor / Michigan. It will be fun going to these movies and seeing local sites and maybe local people we know.