DIRECTOR'S STATEMENT
I don't play in a band. I don't really play any instruments, I don't sing, I don't write music. So why would I write a movie about music?
Music may be the one thing that transcends all...even space and time - the Voyager spacecraft is carrying music, for god sakes. Music holds your hand through good times and bad, it understands you in every situation, inspires you and tears you down. It can ruin lives and bring people together. That is music's power.
I am grateful for the power of music. From my favorite bands to the kid who picks up a guitar for the first time and has the courage to put him or herself out there, I appreciate and respect all of you for doing what you do. This movie is my THANK YOU.
- Joselito Seldera, Writer/Director/Producer
THE STORY
The summer after graduating high school, JANIE still has no desire other than to play punk rock. Problem is, her bandmates (and best friends) are moving away, and Janie tries to do everything she can to keep them together so they can face what life hurls at them together. When an opportunity to tour arises, Janie finds an opportunity that can not only make her music dreams come true, but keep her band – and her friends – together.
But when Janie befriends disillusioned high school guidance counselor KATE at a show, the two find in each other someone they can actually confide in, be vulnerable with. Despite the age gap, they share the same loves, fears, and anxieties, and learn that the most rebellious, punk rock thing they can do is to take a chance and face those fears alone if they have to.
For a sense of the style and tone of the movie, view our concept reel here.
OUR LEAD SINGER
We're excited to have cast SUNNY KELLER as Janie! She's made a name for herself on the show "Life Hacks for Kids," but is also a talented singer-songwriter. Born in Chicago and raised in L.A., Sunny not only fits the role perfectly, but she can PLAY. See for yourself here.
THE BANDS
We already have some killer bands locked in and ready to rock, and this is just the start:
Rockford, Illinois - From the ashes of long time Pop Punk stalwarts Mulligan Stu comes Mono In Stereo. With an honest approach and eclectic influences, MIS take a no holds barred approach to their song craft. From Springsteen to Mould, Earle to Costello, MIS merge a variety of divergent musical interests into their own special blend of Midwest Punk. Rockin' since I was in high school, these guys just don't stop.
Chicago, Illinois - Hi Ho started as a solo project of Chicago singer-songwriter Gillian McGhee. Now in 2020, Hi Ho is playing full band and better than ever, drawing from a diverse group of influences to create a sound that's heavy, moody, emotive and melodic.
Gillian is one of my favorite artists to come out of Chicago in the last 10 years, so I'm STOKED to have Hi Ho on board!
Chicago, Illinois - Punk rock band out of Chicago formed in the 90s. Disbanded in 96. Reunited in 2006. Now 2021, still kicking ass, touring and drinking beer. A cornerstone of the Chicago punk scene. Absolute destroyers.
Chicago, Illinois - Treason, Treason, Treason. Punk band from Chicago. If you don't know them already, then get on it, asap. Raygun's been an influence on just about everyone, from YOUR punk rock band to Dave Grohl. LEGENDS.
We are also happy to announce that Screw City has the backing of MOVIEMAKER MAGAZINE PRODUCTION SERVICES (MMPS). It's a great boost to be supported by the industry's premiere indie film magazine, and we are STOKED to be working with them!
We have already partnered with Downwrite, a music publishing platform created by artists for artists to bring value back to songwriting. Through Downwrite, we have already commissioned original songs for use in Screw City.