News Summary
Rhode Island welcomes Hollywood’s presence with the filming of ‘Sleepwalker’, a psychological thriller starring Hayden Panettiere. Directed by Brandon Auman, the film portrays a mother’s struggle with loss and reality. Completed with over 150 participants, its production highlights the growing film industry in the state, promising future projects and contributions to the local economy.
Rhode Island has once again become a hub for film production as Hollywood makes its return with a new psychological thriller titled “Sleepwalker.” This film is the result of a collaboration between Verdi Productions, an East Greenwich-based company, and Appian Way Productions, the film production company owned by Leonardo DiCaprio.
Starring Hayden Panettiere, known for her roles in the series Heroes and Nashville, “Sleepwalker” follows the story of Sarah, a mother dealing with profound grief after losing her daughter in a tragic car accident. Her struggles are compounded by her abusive husband’s ongoing hospitalization due to a coma. As the narrative progresses, Sarah’s experiences with heightened sleepwalking episodes and chilling visions begin to distort her perception of reality.
The filming of “Sleepwalker” took place over the course of a month in various locations throughout southern Rhode Island. The production has concluded recently, but the project garnered limited public attention during its shooting. Over 150 individuals were involved in the production, which included actors, extras, crew members, and local vendors, marking a significant investment in the region.
This film also showcases the directorial debut of Brandon Auman, the film’s writer-director, who previously worked on several television series. Auman has described the film as a personal project, drawing upon his childhood experiences to convey the emotional depth of Sarah’s character.
In addition to Panettiere, the cast features well-known actors such as Beverly D’Angelo, Justin Chatwin, Mischa Barton, and Lori Tan Chinn. Child actors Laird Lacoste and Corinne Sweeney also play pivotal roles, with Sweeney balancing her acting commitments with educational requirements provided by a private tutor. Enthusiasm for her acting skills is evident in her footage, which adds authenticity to the narrative.
Panettiere expressed her admiration for the charm and rich history of Rhode Island throughout the filming process, although she expressed her regret that the popular Conjuring House was not open for visits during their time in the state.
The production team was further strengthened by a skilled group of hair and makeup artists, including Emmalee Bettez, a recent high school graduate who has previously collaborated with Verdi Productions on multiple projects.
This collaboration between Verdi Productions and Appian Way Productions not only reflects the ongoing interest of Hollywood in Rhode Island but also paves the way for future film projects in the area. The local film industry is growing, as evidenced by the commitment of both production companies to continue exploring new projects within the state.
As film productions become increasingly established in Rhode Island, local resources and talent may see further utilization, contributing positively to the state’s economy and culture.
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