By Sylene Argent, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Essex Free Press
When Essex filmmaker Jakob Skrzypa was in grade 10, he had an early vision for a “goofy movie” that pays homage to, and satirizes, science fiction and horror films from the past as a comedy horror parody flick. After evolving the over-the-top comedy, 1950s sci-fi spoof plotline, “Vampire Zombies…From Space!” was created to be raunchy with a lot of humour.
The script to the film was sold in 2018, and while filming was delayed due to the pandemic, it is now ready to start its film festival tour.
Though the world debut is set for October 4, “Vampire Zombies…From Space!” will be premiered locally at the 20th edition of the Windsor International Film Festival (WIFF). A gala event will take place on October 26 at the Chrysler Theatre and a Halloween screening will be held on October 31 at the Capitol Pentastar Theatre.
For Skrzypa, getting the film on the silver screen has been a long-time in the making. It took around six-years to write, edit, and produce the movie. He is looking forward to seeing everyone get to enjoy “Vampire Zombies…from Space!” and get to watch everyone react to the scenes.
The local filmmaker – who – not only hopes to have two sold-out shows, but encourages everyone attending to show up in costume – be it as a vampire, zombie, or 1950s attire – as a way to really embrace the film.
“It is not just an event,” he said. “It is a celebration of the community. We want to make it memorable.”
He added this is the type of movie to see with a group, feeding off of the laughter and excitement of other attendees.
WIFF Executive Director, Vincent Georgie, remarked at a recent press conference.
“If you’re looking for lineups wrapped around the building, it’ll be for Vampire Zombies… from Space!”
Skrzypa could not be more excited for the WIFF dates, eager to watch everyone laugh and engage with the film that’s plot depicts Dracula – from the depths of space – having devise his most dastardly plan yet, turning the residents of a small American town named “Marlow” into his personal army of vampire zombies. A motley crew consisting of a grizzled detective, hot-shot rookie cop, chain-smoking greaser, and determined young woman, band together to save the world.
This film is also scheduled to play across Europe this fall.
The film was co-written by Skrzypa and Alex Forman. Skrzypa also edited the film. It was co-written and directed and produced by Michael Stasko, whose past films have played in festivals around the world.
The production also features prominent local Windsor-Essex talent, such as filmmaker Gavin Michael Booth.
This film has its roots in Essex. Not only is Skrzypa a local, it was shot at many local places, such as the historic Essex Railway Station in Essex Centre and Christ Church Cemetery in Colchester
Not only does it include an impressive cast of cult icons, including Judith O’Dea (Night of the Living Dead), Lloyd Kaufman (Troma Entertainment, The Toxic Avenger), Simon Reynolds (Gate 2,Saw VI, Matt & Mara), and David Liebe Hart (Tim & Eric Awesome Show, Great Job!), it involved plenty of local talents, as well.
The majority of the film was shot in the summer of 2022.
Skrzypa put out a call to lure at least 100 extras for the filming of the climax scene at Essex United Church in July of 2023, which was transformed into the town hall.
It is the scene where the Vampire Zombies invade and everyone fights back.
With the Windsor-Essex being so supportive of the project – and the arts in general – he was overwhelmed to welcome 150 individuals to that film session. Those individuals signed up not only to be there in costume, but spend six-hours on set. Some were so supportive, they offered to stay the whole 12-hour shift.
Around 200 local individuals were in the film, with 44 having speaking roles. Former Mayor Ron McDermott made an appearance in the film and is one of the cast members with a speaking role. Somewhere between 300-400 were involved in someway.
“It was just such a good community project,” he said. That included local classic car owners who allowed their unique vehicles to be used for the filming.
“We had great support. The support in Windsor-Essex is enthusiastic.”
Filming the movie was all about having fun, Skrzypa said last year. “We are leaning into the spirit of old films. We are making fun of seeing the strings on the UFOs.”
Not only did the crew not want to hide the strings, they used CGI to ensure they were seen.
Skrzypa said he will be actively pursuing a streaming service, so the film will be watchable from home after the festival run.
Tickets are available for the WIFF screenings. Those who would like to learn more about the film can visit www.vampirezombiesmovie.com
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