Not all of the movies being shot in Detroit are big-budget productions that employ everyone and their cousin. Smaller productions are also having a significant impact, such as "Pawn Shop."
The movie is bringing in some recognizable Hollywood talent while employing dozens of people and giving some up-and-coming Detroit talent a place to shine. The independent movie has a budget of $525,000 and is employing about 50 people.
"Detroit is a good backdrop city for urban films," says Parrish Redd, co-writer, co-producer and director of "Pawn Shop." "There is a lot of landscapes and talent."
"Pawn Shop" is bringing in nationally-known talents, such as
Garret Morris (member of the original "Saturday Night Live" cast) and
Joe Torry ("Poetic Justice" and "Russell Simmon's Def Comedy Jam"). It’s also shining the spotlight on some well-known local talent, like
Robert "Foolish" Spearman Jr. (WJLB 97.9 FM radio personality) and
Chandra "Deelishis" Davis (Flavor of Love 2).
The budget for "Pawn Shop" is $525,000. It is being funded by Paris Deior Studios of West Bloomfield and a group of private investors. When filming is done 50 people will have been employed during the 15-day shoot, including local actors; caterers; hair stylists; interns; acting coaches; security personal and crew members. The majority of the "Pawn Shop" budget has been spent locally.
"This feature film is giving a lot of local talent an opportunity to expand on their careers," Redd says.
Source: Parrish Redd, co-writer, co-producer and director of "Pawn Shop"
Writer: Jon Zemke
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