We first reported on this cool-sounding project back in March when we dropped the news that Fallon had set the project up as his feature length directorial debut, working alongside producer Donny Broussard to bring the project in front of the cameras in early 2014.
It was only a few weeks later that we learned THE SHELTER had found its leading man in none other than the badass Michael Pare, who had also come onboard to executive produce the film. This morning we have another bit of exciting casting news to share with ya as the lovely and talented Gayle James has moved into THE SHELTER to tackle the role of Maryam, wife to Pare’s Thomas.
James, who recently wrapped BAD COUNTRY, which stars Willem Dafoe, Amy Smart,Tom Berenger and Matt Dillon, impressed the producers at the auditions, with Fallon stating on his official blog…
What I esteemed about her was that she obviously had solid instincts as an actress, a chameleon like quality (she read for two roles, it was night and day), the camera simply loved her and she knew how to play to it. Moreover she will be able to keep up with an actor of Pare’s experience which was very important to me. Finally she had the look that I was looking for in terms of the role of Maryam. Her eyes spoke volumes, I need that.
Sounds like casting for THE SHELTER is coming along nicely!
In case you need reminding, THE SHELTER goes like this:
On a star filled night, widower and homeless man Thomas finds shelter for the night when he falls upon a vast two story house with the lights on and an inviting open front door. He strolls on in thinking he just caught a lucky break and for a while, it would appear that he did. Inside, there’s nobody in sight and he finds all of the comforts that he used to have. After taking a bath, feasting whole heartily on some food and relishing the silliness on the tube, he gets some well earned shut eye. All is well until a restless Thomas wakes up in a panic and finds a loaded revolver resting on his lap. Baffled, he picks up the weapon, checks the barrel, it is fully loaded. A visceral sense of unease invades him immediately. Something is very wrong and he decides that it is time to leave. Alas he finds out swiftly that the premises won’t let him depart. The doors are all locked, and the windows puzzlingly cannot be opened or broken. Destiny has brought Thomas to this place. Will he survive the ordeal?
You can keep up with news on THE SHELTER by checking them out on their official Facebook page. And, as always, we’ll keep you updated with news regarding the film as we hear it!