Delayed Justice

Such small increments. That’s how we measure progress. A big gift came last Wednesday in the form of permission to use photos of Grand Rapids Press articles. (Thank you publisher/president Danny Gaydou.) Friday it was setting our monitors so we could be assured of reasonable final colors. That night was devoted to color correction. Saturday and Sunday was audio balancing and lower-third superimpositions. Final tweaks and edits all the way along. Something I call challenging the bite: I see what I’ve used in the film, but also there is “this” segment that might be as strong or stronger and might suit better. So the challenge goes on up to the date of showing. Tomorrow I go to Grand Rapids for more research for visuals. There are things I really need to make this movie what I think it might be.

This film will go up at the Wealthy Street Theatre in Grand Rapids at 7 and 9 p.m. Wednesday, Sept 14.

Here’s the current press release:

Shelley Mills Murder release

And here’s the poster for the event:

These films take time. I am in the middle or a little more of Heritage Hill Bride: The Murder of Shelley Speet Mills. And I need to move right along: the premier is Sept. 14 at the Wealthy Street Theatre.

You are invited. Silent Observer is again providing free popcorn.

Last week was spent in editing and recording music for the film. (I like to make sure all the music I use is locally produced; there is nothing there off the shelf. This time pianist Becca Beebe was kind enough to be the artist. Guitarist Mark Huizenga often has been the artist for previous films.)

The film is not yet end to end. I hope to have it this week. And that’s generally the mark that I have the piece in hand. BUT NOT YET! So there is a sense of urgency. And I need to return to the Ryerson Library to get a couple more newspaper clippings from the various killings that came to be known as the Heritage Hill Murders. Shelley’s murder is generally considered the first of the lot.

I would appreciate your prayers as I move ahead. Prayers to tell the story in a compelling manner, prayers for protection, prayers for calm reflection. And prayers for Shelley, her family and friends.

I thank you.