CAPE MAY – “Exit Zero” is not merely a designated mile marker on Garden State Parkway, it is also the title of an upcoming movie that will be filmed in and around Cape May from Oct. 20 to Oct. 27.
Former Cape May native Glenn Rodriguez is producer and director of this film. Rodriguez explained that the inspiration for the film was “things that happened in my life in Cape May. I always wanted to make a film. Cape May is probably one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. I wanted to use it as a background.” Rodriguez revealed.
“‘Exit Zero’ is about a 23-year-old aspiring filmmaker who has something happen to him… he’s at a crossroad in life. The film is about taking risks and following your dreams… go and do whatever it is you want to do,”
Growing up in Cape May, Rodriguez always wanted to make a film. “I wanted to move to California, yet I had to leave Cape May,” he said.
Rodriguez studied directing and editing at Full Sail University in Florida. He left Cape May for California in November 2012 and found work in his chosen field in Los Angeles.
Rodriguez worked on various film projects across the country as well as a reality TV series. Rodriguez wrote the film and will direct and edit it as well.
“We are shooting the beginning and ending of the film in Los Angeles on Hollywood Boulevard. We will have a nine or 10-day shoot in Cape May. The film is going to be around 80 minutes long.” Rodriguez said.
The independent film is planned to have its first showing next summer in Cape May. Since the film will be shot in October, and edited during the winter, the goal is for a summer premiere.
The main character in the movie is Grey Richardson, who is living in Cape May, but wants to make movies, and doesn’t know whether to leave or stay. Ultimately his decision leads him to California where he fulfills his artistic aspirations.
Actors in the film are from New York City and New Jersey. Auditions were held several months ago over the Internet, and Rodriguez was pleased with the casting choices and his personal cast.
He believes the actors will project the authentic meaning of the film. “We want to send a message, it’s about inspiring people. We went to inspire people to follow their dreams,” Rodriguez stated.
The film is being financed by Revival Pictures, of which Rodriguez claims sole ownership. He is holding fundraisers for the film, in addition to receiving additional funding from various financial backers. Rodriguez hopes his film inspires its future audience with its positive message.
“Take risks. Follow your dream. Go do whatever it is that you want to do. Don’t give up on your dreams!” Rodriguez declared.
For information, visit the website www.exitzerofilm.com.
To contact Terence Harris, email tharris@cmcherald.com.
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