Warren Skeels’ Debut Feature ‘The Man in the White Van‘ is a Psychological Thriller Throwback to the 1970s.
‘The Man in the White Van‘ a Garrison Film and Legion M production, is directed and produced by Warren Skeels. Written by Sharon Y. Cobb and Skeels, held its world permiere at the Newport Beach Film Festival (NBFF) last night in Newport Beach, CA.
Based on real life events from several murders involving a mysterious white van in 1970s, rural Florida, ‘The Man in the White Van‘ also draws from the experience executive producer Gary Kompothecras’ wife’s experience in having been followed by the same “White Van” and Skeels himself that avoided being followed in his youth.
Influenced by suspense building films like ‘Jaws‘, horror from the ‘Texas Chainsaw Massacre‘ and turning a vehicle into a terrifying weapon similar to, ‘Christine,’ Skeels and crew manage pull off an amazing feat with only a $6 million budget.
Madison Wolfe as Annie and Brec Bassinger’s (‘DC’s Stargirl‘) Margaret embody the two siblings, who must evade capture from this menacing figure. Sean Astin and Ali Larter as the girls parents, enhance the story making you feel that their child was actually in danger and the emotional drama that those parents and family members must have gone through with the real killings.
Cinematographer Gareth Paul Cox has an amazing eye for detail where no shot is wasted, making you feel that Annie or any of the other victims lives could be cut short instantaneously.
‘The Man in the White Van‘ soundtrack is its own character in the film, which is refreshing that they did not rehash the same 1970s songs in every movie regarding that decade.
A powerful, slow burn of a movie that has your heart pounding in your throat as you wait to see the fate of Annie, ‘The Man in the White Van‘ is seeking a PG-13 rating as the subject of missing and exploited children is one of great significance in todays society. Seeing this film with your pre-teens will be a great conversation in how to be aware of your surroundings.
Skeels and the people at Garrison Film and Legion M also teamed up with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) for not only this 43-year-old cold case, where two more Jane Doe’s have been found but also to help other missing children as well.
If you would like to donate to NCMEC please visit: www.missingkids.org.
‘The Man in the White Van‘ Second Screening is at:
Thursday, October 19, 2023 at 7 p.m.
Big Newport Theater 6
300 Newport Center Dr,
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Summary
‘The Man in the White Van‘ mixes the emotions of a 1970s psychological thriller with the opportunity to discuss situational awareness with your pre-teens, all while being entertained.
Very exciting! Can’t wait to see it!