Steppenwolf Films is the producing entity for “The Last Rites of Joe May,” a low budget indie starring home boy Dennis Farina that wrapped Dec. 19 after a four-weeks of shooting here.
Written and directed by Joe Maggio, the story is about Joe May, an aging and ailing short money hustler who’s always looking for the next big score or adventure around the next corner.
“It’s wonderful to be shooting a movie in Chicago again,” said Farina. I haven’t had the privilege since ‘Crime Story.’ It also doesn’t hurt that after we wrap I can sleep in my own bed at night.”
The “Crime Story” TV series, by the way, which was directed by Michael Mann and starred Farina, dates back more than 20 years.
“Joe May” is being co-produced by produced by Chicago’s Steppenwolf Films and Beverly Hills-based You’re Faded Films, in which Farina is a partner. Executive producers are Steppenwolf’s Tim Evans, and You’re Faded’s Dennis Mastro, a You’re Faded partner, and Bobby Schwartz.
Key roles are played by Steppenwolf ensemble members Gary Cole (“In the Line of Fire”), one of Steppenwolf’s founders, and Ian Barford (“Road to Perdition”) and Chelcie Ross, “Mad Men’s” crusty Conrad Hilton.
This is the first feature for cinematographer Jay Silver. Carrie Holt de Lama is line producer. Claire Simon was the casting director. Nolo Digital handles post and Cerny American sound.
