[dropcap]A[/dropcap]n unexpected phone call from an Austin film producer several months ago has thrust a Dripping Springs business owner into the spotlight.
Late last month, Ed Michal, owner of Delta Tax Service along U.S. Highway 290 in Dripping Springs, watched as his business transformed into the opening scene of “Shilo,” an independent film produced by Tyler Russell Productions, LLC of Austin.
For Michal, the opportunity not only was a chance to help the film company, but also highlight the film industry in Dripping Springs.
“It meant a chance to show them some hospitality, what Dripping Springs is capable of,” Michal said. “I know other films have been shot in Dripping Springs and I want them to get the feeling there is a lot to offer in the Hill Country.”
“Shilo” is a short independent film directed by Tyler Russell that’s based on the story of Iraq War veteran Shilo Harris, of Coleman, Tex., who was severely injured in an IED attack in 2007.
The film follows Harris in glimpses of his life prior to and after his service in the military.
Ven Scott, producer of “Shilo,” said the idea of the film came after Russell met Harris at a film shoot and asked about his interest in a possible film. While they didn’t decide on the idea at the time, the two later reconnected last fall, which led Russell to call Harris, who agreed to the film. They decided on a short film to start off with the possibility of a full-length feature later on.
“It was serendipitous for Tyler to give him a call,” Scott said.
Scott said Russell quickly developed a script, which involved talking with Harris to make sure details were in place.
Russell then reached out to Scott and his crew to produce the film. He then began scouting areas for the shoot, primarily the opening scene, which focused on Harris returning home from his land surveyor’s job to find his father watching images of Sept. 11, 2001 happen on television.
Scott, who works in the Austin area and drives through Dripping Springs regularly, said Michal’s modular home fit the scene.
Michal said Scott called him and gauged his interest for his property to be used for the shoot. Once they showed him the script, Michal said he was fully on-board. Michal allowed filmmakers the chance to use property he owned next to the modular home as well.
“It made me feel like this was a good film,” Michal said. “Once they explained the purpose, it was something worth backing.”
On Dec. 20, Tyler Russell Productions began filming on Michal’s property. It was a process that lasted roughly seven hours. That included simulating a daytime scene at night, which required rearrangement of furniture, installation of lights and light reflecting screens.
“From what I could see, it was technologically demanding,” Michal said. “You had to get things just right. You had to line up the equipment, and they were using fairly expensive camera equipment.”
Scott said Harris was on location and advised filmmakers during the shoot. Scott said Harris’ demeanor made it seem he did not go through anything as tramautic as he had experienced.
“The positivity he exudes, if half of that is presented as we hope, it will be in the film, I think that not only his message will be widely and warmly received, but it will get that butterfly effect going,” Scott said. “They’ll find that positive nugget and pass it on.”
Scott said shooting for the film wrapped up a couple of weeks ago. The film is now in the post-production process, which involves the filmmakers working with the composure and editing teams.
He said the hope is to have the film ready by February, with the possibility of finding funding for a full-length feature in the future.
“This year, we’re going to shop it around and try to get interest in lead actors and actresses to get a larger name along,” Scott said.
