Luz Cabrales is a Marywood alumnus who founded Scranton Films, a film company based in Scranton that fosters Scranton-based projects. On Oct. 1, she will present “Shadows of the Past,” written by Julian Santos, loosely based on local Scranton legends.
Following four teenagers, they escape danger by entering an old mansion with a strange man. He tells creepy tales in exchange for their stay, and the teenagers must uncover the truth about their mysterious situation.
The writer of this film, Santos, is another Marywood alumnus. Santos is from California and attended Marywood with Cabrales. Although Santos is based in California now, he trusts Cabrales to fulfill his vision.
“She is one of the smartest, most creative, both technically and classically, artists I have ever met,” said Santos. “I honestly can’t see myself ever being a time when she and I aren’t working together. In fact, I think we’d even find a way to create art together in the afterlife”
Actor Karl Barbee was a dance professor when Marywood used to have a dance department, and he had performed in several musical theater productions around the Scranton area. Barbee’s ability to act on stage has landed him multiple acting roles, including one for “Shadows of the Past.”
“They all cross lines to be a part of each other,” Barbee explained. “Going into film, it came to me, I didn’t go to it”.
The film includes over 50 actors of all ages, with all of the actors being local to Pennsylvania. Both Scranton Films and this picture highlight the area of Scranton and strengthen the idea that Scranton is a hub for filmmakers.
The film will premiere at the Ritz Theater and Performing Arts Center on Oct. 1, with the red carpet event starting at 6 p.m. and the film’s showing at 6:30 p.m. Entry is $10; you can purchase tickets on the Ritz Theater’s website or on-site.
Cabrales says it is important to support local filmmakers.
“This is a combination of great creatives collaborating, especially the local talent,” she added. “If there is a time to see community together in a creative way, this is it.”
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