Some movie/TV show action expected here in late summer and early fall; “Public Enemies” wraps

MOVIETONE NEWS. The Patrick Swayze A&E TV series, “The Beast,” has opened at Chicago Studio City and is getting set for a late July-early August start date.

Chicago will be the location for the pilot of “Peep Show,” an Americanized version of the hit British TV series to air on Spike TV. Shooting could start in early fall or sooner, depending on how soon leading role actors are signed.

Director is Dylan Kidd <"Roger Dodger") and writer/producer is David Richardson, remembered from his stint on the “What About Joan” series. Tenner Paskal & Rudnicke is casting.

After four months of intense production and revitalizing economies in Wisconsin and Illinois,

Michael Mann’s “Public Enemies” wrapped this week, making Chicago much quieter.

A 4TH OF JULY TV SPECIAL, “Return to the Wall” about motorcyclists who participated in the Illinois Freedom Run, airs on Comcast SportsNet July 4, and a longer version on July 5. It was produced by Andy Lock’s andyCam.

Funds raised from the Run helps supports the 50-ft. long Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial at St. Anne, along the Illinois River. Names of soldiers who lost their lives in Middle East conflicts are inscribed on the wall ? the U.S.’ only active war memorial.

Sox pitcher Scott Linebrink introduces the program. Former Chicago White Sox Rookie of the Year, and All Star Ron Kittle hosts the doc’s Illinois Freedom Run portion.

SAG STRIKE UPDATE: Local actors are startled when they pick up the phone and hear recorded messages from the likes of Sean Penn and Ed Asner asking them vote “no” on the strike ballot that has been sent to members.

LOOKING WAY AHEAD. The 44th Chicago International Film Festival will honor Academy award winning actor Sidney Poitier with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Oct. 18 Black Perspectives Tribute, hosted by Fox News’ Robin Robinson.

IF YOU’D LIKE TO BE A PANELIST and talk about your film expertise, the Sept 25-26 Naperville Film Festival wants to hear from you. Phone Edmond Coisson, 630/709-5264.

HAVE A HAPPY FOURTH! We’ll be back next week with more exclusive production/business news. In the meantime, don’t forget to send us news of your latest projects.