Movie filmed in Macon, inspired by a true story is set to be released this week nationwide
A movie with several scenes filmed in Macon is set to hit the big screen nationwide on Thursday.
“Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot” was filmed in several locations, including Macon and Middle Georgia, and is based on the true story of a community which organized to adopt almost 80 children.
The Macon Film Commission and Visit Macon were approached by the producers of the film, inquiring about Macon as a location to film while the team considered Georgia for the production, according to Aaron Buzza, Visit Macon liaison for the Macon Film Commission.
“There were some specific things they had in mind so that the setting could be as close to Possum Trot, located in East Texas, as possible,” he said. “We were able to find many of the locations they were looking for and put them in contact with the owners of the building that they used for their production office.”
Buzza said Macon was a central point for the film’s entire operation. Not only was the production office located in Macon, the city was able to house crew, have the casting calls and handle all of the costuming right in Macon, according to Buzza.
He said Macon was also a central location from which to base the production, since several scenes were filmed in surrounding counties as well. Buzza said numerous locals were involved, from cast to crew, and the significant interest from locals in being involved was helpful in making the filming a great experience.
On June 27, the Douglass Theatre had a red carpet premiere preview showing of the movie which was attended by more than 300 movie-goers.
Shelton Land, Douglass Theatre executive director, said he thought the movie was very moving and an instant classic as it explores and raises the profile of the foster care system and how communities can come together to solve a community issue while capturing the essence of the human spirit, love and hope.
“We were thrilled that the movie premiered at the historic Douglass Theatre, a cultural touchstone of the community. This was good for the Macon community and the Douglass Theatre, because the roots of the Douglass Theatre include showing silent and sound films by independent producers and filmmakers such as Oscar Micheaux,” he said. “So premiering the movie here was a perfect fit because it aligns with the culture and goals of the Douglass, which is to bring people together through film, performing arts, and history.”
“Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot,” follows Donna and Reverend Martin as they encourage their rural church to embrace kids in the foster system that nobody else would take, according to Angel Studios.
The film is executive produced by Letitia Wright, renowned for her role in “Black Panther,” alongside Nika King and Joe Knittig. The film is directed by Joshua Weigel, known for his work on “The Butterfly Circus,” and written and produced by Joshua and Rebekah Weigel, the creative minds behind the same project.
Buzza said the story that the film tells is one that should inspire viewers and believes it will showcase the Macon area.
“From the locations featured in the film to the talented people involved in the production – extremely beautiful,” he said. “It is a project that we are extremely proud to have had film here in our area.”
