It’s not often that a thriller the likes of The American Side comes along to brand Buffalo as an essential backdrop for the film industry. Yet that is what has happened, and is happening, as the film’s producers have launched into the final mode of production and distribution. But before any of that can happen, the film team is setting out to raise some final scratch, in order to drive the film home.
According to Jenna Ricker, who co-wrote and directed the film, the launching of the Kickstarter campaign is “to maximize the theatrical release and expand it in as many cities as possible.” And who wouldn’t want this film, starring (Buffalo native) Greg Stuhr, Matthew Broderick, Camilla Belle, Robert Forster, Janeane Garofalo, Alicja Bachleda and Robert Vaughn, to live up to its expectations now that the crux of the work is complete? The American Side was shot entirely in Greater Buffalo and Niagara Falls, bringing with it a boost to the local economy, jobs to the local film industry, and another distinguishing film trademark that will one day be right up there with The Natural (also shot in Buffalo).
A revolutionary design by Nikola Tesla surfaces in Buffalo, NY, sending a Polish detective on a frantic chase to the brink of Niagara.
The film centers around a newly discovered conspiracy that surrounds the legacy of Nikola Tesla, a revolutionary scientist who was often times misunderstood, under-appreciated for his brilliant work, and extremely controversial for his time. Tesla “harnessed the power of Niagara Falls to electrify Buffalo”, ultimately providing this city with the moniker “City of Light”. Finally, a noir-fueled mystery has been produced that tells Tesla’s story in a fantastic way, enhanced by the theatrical score of Buffalo native and Academy Award Winning composer, David Shire (All the President’s Men, The Conversation).
The producers behind this monumental movie believed in Buffalo. Now it’s our turn to return the act of cinematic kindness by ponying up a few bucks to ensure that The American Side travels as far as possible. By doing so, the impact of Tesla, and the Buffalo Niagara region will be felt for years to come.
“An adrenaline-charged, pop-noir mystery.” – The Hollywood Reporter
To pitch in to the Kickstarter campaign, click here.
Lead image: Film Still: Greg Stuhr as Charlie Paczynski, Location: Erie County Fair (photo credit: Frank Barrera)
Inset image: Greg Stuhr and Director, Jenna Ricker on set at Pierce Arrow Sound Studio (photo credit: Daniela Galli)
Bottom image: Film Still: Camilla Belle as Emily Meeker, Greg Stuhr as Charlie Paczynski, Location: Staler Hotel (photo credit: Frank Barrera)