Spot producers move into features with Christian film

Waukegan commercial house Glasshouse Entertainment have moved into their new Chicago office and set up shop to begin production on their first feature film, “Throwing Stones.”

“Throwing Stones” is a Christian film, about a former prostitute struggling to gain acceptance at a West Side church.

“The inspiration for the project is to stimulate some dialogue, not just with Christians, about the difference between religion and church and spirituality,” said Angela Thomas, who is producing the film with Kweisi Dunlap.

Glasshouse partner Bernard Dixon is directing from his own script. The 21-day shoot begins May 24. Glasshouse is looking for a deal on an HD package, and is also considering shooting on DV.

Thomas said the picture is geared for a theatrical release, with plans to market the film through promotional shows at the Chicago Gospel Fest and other events, and through Christian organizations.

Glasshouse is in a space formerly occupied by ICEE Records. ICEE CEO Charles White is the executive producer and sole funder of “Throwing Stones'” under-$700,000 budget. ICEE is slated to release the picture’s gospel-based soundtrack.

Glasshouse moved in January from Waukegan, where it had produced commercials for local small-to-mid-sized businesses since 1997. “We wanted to be closer to the film community in Chicago,” Thomas said.

Dixon is spearheading Glasshouse’s expansion into film and television, while partner Mel Taylor continues to run the company’s commercial division. Clients have included WGCI-FM, MTI, House of Kicks, and Kids for Less. The company has a staff of ten.

Glasshouse is working on a TV production deal with new New York company Green & Frost. Queen Latifah’s Flava Unit had an option on Dixon’s feature script “Seven Sons of Cycle.” The option lapsed, the rights reverted to Dixon, and Glasshouse plans “Cycle” as their second feature production, Thomas said.

“Throwing Stones” DP is Kevin Watson. Composer is Ernie Allen. Cast includes Michael Wright (also known as spoken-word artist Sorrow) and Yvetta Johnson. Some roles are still being cast. “We’re negotiating with several major urban female artists,” Thomas said.

Glasshouse Entertainment is at 843 W. Chicago. Call 312/829-3840 or see www.filmvideomusic.com.

? by Ed M. Koziarski, edk@homesickblues.com