Local filmmaker seeks movie locations in Fayette County
CONNELLSVILLE – A newly formed film company, 72nd St. Films, with offices in the Pittsburgh area and New York City, has announced that it is in the initial phase of producing “Small Time Crime,” a feature film. Locations are being scouted in Uniontown, Connellsville, McKeesport and Monessen.
“I wrote the script with southwestern Pennsylvania in mind,” said Jeff Monahan, president of 72nd St. Films and a professional actor and screenwriter. “I’m from this area, while I have lived in New York, this is where my family and I live and where we call home.”
Monahan said he still maintains a residence in New York City.
“Small Time Crime” is about a dying bank robber who returns to his hometown to try to reconnect with his parents, his best friend and the only girl he ever loved.
But what is meant to be a fond farewell turns into a nightmare – and one last hope of redemption.
“It’s a crime drama, but there’s a very strong romantic core to it, as well as some pretty dark humor,” Monahan said. “The story focuses on the bank robber and how he’s seeking a way to pay for all of the nasty staff he has done in his life.”
Monahan, a native of Connellsville, has written two other feature-length films, “Hits” starring Martin Sheen and “One Way Out” starring Michael Ironside. He also played leading roles in both films and was the unit director of “Hits.”
His other film credits include John Sayles’ “Lone Star” and George Romero’s “Bruiser” and “The Dark Half.” Network television roles include “Target Earth” on ABC, “Bet Your Life” on NBC and “The War That Made America” on PBS.
72nd Films is moving ahead with the production.
So far, the company is currently casting the major roles for the film, and an acclaimed film and TV network star has expressed interest in playing one of the lead roles.
They also are hiring the crew.
Some local residents have expressed interest in the project and are investing in the film.
Anyone interested in receiving an investment proposal should contact 72nd St. Films at 724-570-9999 or Max House, House Financial Services, at 724-628-4811.