Wetlands’ Whets Locals’ Curiosity; Filming Done in Many Venues

CAPE MAY – There’s a new drama brewing, and it has nothing to do with politicians. It’s a PG-13 independent movie entitled “Wetlands,” which is being filmed throughout the county.
The movie, described as a crime, drama and thriller, centers around a man’s attempt to make a new start in Atlantic City with the help of his daughter and new business partner. According to North Wildwood Recreation and Tourism Department, the film is a “police drama about an ex-Philadelphia cop who moves to a quaint shore town in the winter to reconnect with his estranged family.
Anthony Mackie, who starred in “The Hurt Locker,” and Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, who starred in “GI Joe: The Rise of Cobra,” are among the film’s stars, being produced by Wetlands Productions. Actress Heather Graham is also supposed to be among the stars. It is being directed by Emanuele Della Valle.
According to various social media posts, the crew is staying at La Mer Beachfront Inn, Cape May. Filming has taken place at the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, Stone Harbor, Cape May Point State Park, North Wildwood boat ramp and the Grassy Sound area outside of North Wildwood.
The Wildwood Crest Board of Commissioners approved a resolution March 23 to allow Wetlands to film in the area from April 4 – May 14, including the use of the former library. It’s being leased to the production company for $1,000 a week, for a minimum of $5,000. They plan to convert it into a police station for the film.
Jim Barnes said the company has rented one of his trucks for a surf vehicle and some of his Legend surfboards. They also rented the surfboards on the ceiling and paintings in Big Wave Burrito, Cape May, and were filming with them on April 12.
A bartender at Hemingway’s Restaurant, Cape May, was selected to appear in the film because “he looks like a surfer,” according to one of its employees.
A casting call looking for those of all ethnicities aged 25-65 ended April 8. Efforts to reach the production company were unsuccessful.
To contact Karen Knight, email kknight@cmcherald.com.