The eagerly awaited film “Marriage Bites” is set to commence production in early November, with primary filming taking place at J Spenser Studio Huntsville, located in Huntsville, Alabama. The shoot will continue into December at the renowned Thunderdome Studios in Lithonia, Georgia right outside of Atlanta. This groundbreaking project aims to blend horror and comedy in novel ways, intricately weaving contemporary social media theories into its storyline.
In an exclusive interview, we delve into the creative vision behind “Marriage Bites,” exploring the film’s concept, casting process, filming locations, special effects, and the unique storytelling approach that distinguishes it from typical vampire narratives. The story centers around Martin and Linda, a couple grappling with the challenges of a stagnant marriage, who face an unexpected twist when Martin is bitten by a vampire. This supernatural development not only disrupts their lives but also compels them to confront various vampire theories while defending their town from a rising undead threat.
Directed by the talented Alex M. Gibson, known for his previous works such as “Silence: A Love Story” and “Summoning Frank,” “Marriage Bites” is poised to be another significant entry in his impressive filmography. Gibson’s expertise in weaving emotional narratives with compelling characters is sure to shine through in this project.
The film boasts a star-studded cast that enhances its appeal. Ashley Hargrove takes on the role of Linda, while also contributing as the film’s writer. Hargrove’s previous performances in “Nashville,” “Fairwood,” and “Unnerving” have showcased her versatility and depth as an actress. Joining her is Joe Komara as Martin, who brings his experience from films like “Falling for the Competition” and “A Perfect Christmas Pairing” to this pivotal role.
Darren Ewing, known for his roles in “Troll 2,” “Unaccompanied Minors,” and “Brothers Three: An American Gothic,” will portray Milton, adding a unique flair to the ensemble. Ava Connolly, recognized for her performances in “Zero,” “Ragged Heart,” and “Voices,” takes on the role of Morgan, further enriching the cast.
The ensemble features notable actors such as James Duval, celebrated for his roles in “Hawaii Five-O,” “Gone in 60 Seconds,” and “Independence Day,” alongside Robert LaSardo, known for his portrayal of Escobar Gallardo on “Nip/Tuck.” LaSardo adds gravitas to the film as Counselor Doug, bringing with him an impressive resume that includes performances in over 170 productions.
Other cast members include Zachary Vazquez, celebrated for his performances in popular productions such as “Baywatch,” “Magic Mike XXL,” and “The Vampire Diaries.” His diverse range of roles showcases his versatility as an actor. Grayson Thorne Kilpatrick, recognized for his impactful performances in “American Horror Story” and “Netflix’s Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story,” adds depth and intensity to the ensemble with his compelling portrayals. Angela Russell Moore has also received significant attention for her work in “Born Again,” where her performance captivated audiences and critics alike. The film further enriches its cast with seasoned actors such as Krishna Sistla Ward, known for his strong screen presence, Shawn C. Phillips, whose experience spans various genres, Daniel Emery Taylor, celebrated for his contributions to both film and television, and Wynn Reichert, who brings a wealth of talent and experience to the project.
Additionally, Nicole Butler is recognized for her roles in “Move Me No Mountain” and “Wood Witch,” showcasing her dynamic range as an actress. J Spenser also brings his talents to the film, known for his work in “The Dawn” and “Life is Good,” further enhancing the film’s robust cast with his engaging performances.
Together, this talented ensemble creates a rich tapestry of characters, each contributing their unique skills and backgrounds to bring the story to life.
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The concept behind “Marriage Bites” emerged from the filmmaker’s desire to explore the horror-comedy genre further. Following the completion of a prior horror comedy project, the filmmaker was motivated to craft a narrative that examines the intricacies of a couple’s relationship set against a backdrop of supernatural chaos. The character of Martin was inspired by a friend’s humorous take on vampires, leading the filmmaker to recognize Joe Komara’s talent as the ideal fit for the role.
At its core, “Marriage Bites” follows Martin, a suburban husband trapped in a monotonous routine, who is transformed into a vampire, triggering a series of chaotic events that challenge his marriage. As Martin grapples with his new identity, Linda must navigate the complexities of her husband’s transformation while confronting her own insecurities. Their journey highlight’s themes of rediscovery, resilience, and the essential role of love and support in overcoming life’s unexpected challenges.
What truly sets “Marriage Bites” apart is its innovative incorporation of social media theories. The film humorously critiques the modern obsession with social media, exploring how the characters blindly follow online trends and theories, often landing them in absurd and dangerous situations. This clever narrative device serves as both entertainment and a cautionary tale, reminding viewers of the importance of discerning truth from fiction in the digital age.
The casting process for “Marriage Bites” was a collaborative effort, blending familiar faces with new talent. Emphasizing the importance of networking and maintaining relationships within the industry facilitated the inclusion of a diverse and skilled cast. Joe Komara’s previous collaborations were instrumental in shaping the character of Martin, while other actors were selected based on their ability to convincingly embody their roles.
Filming locations have been thoughtfully chosen to provide a fitting backdrop for various settings in the film, including office spaces, morgues, cemeteries, and arcade scenes. Huntsville, Alabama, and the Thunderdome Studios in Atlanta, Georgia, will serve as the primary filming sites, contributing to the film’s humorous tone while enhancing its narrative depth and creating an engaging viewing experience.
“Marriage Bites” promises to impress audiences with its exciting special effects and stunts. The special effects team, led by SFX artist Tara Merryman and stunt performer Justin Harvey, has crafted creative death scenes, vampire transformations, and visual gags that align with the film’s comedic horror theme. Their expertise ensures that “Marriage Bites” will not only entertain but also visually captivate viewers.
Described by the filmmaker as primarily a comedic horror film infused with dark humor and moments of gruesome absurdity, “Marriage Bites” draws inspiration from cult classics such as “Tucker and Dale vs. Evil,” “Cooties,” and “Shaun of the Dead.” The film effectively combines humor, horror, and heartfelt moments, creating a unique cinematic experience.
During our conversation, the filmmaker shared memorable anecdotes from the set, highlighting the camaraderie that developed among the cast and crew. Laughter filled the air during character introductions, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that made the production enjoyable. Hints of potential sequels or spin-offs suggest that “Marriage Bites” could lead to further explorations of this captivating universe.
“Marriage Bites” stands out in the crowded vampire genre with its inventive storytelling, modern social commentary, and masterful fusion of horror and comedy. The film promises a fresh perspective on vampire lore, free from typical clichés, while delivering a narrative filled with creative deaths and humorous moments. With its talented cast, engaging storyline, and innovative approach, “Marriage Bites” is set to be an unforgettable cinematic experience that resonates with audiences.
The film has garnered support from various sponsors, including All Good Products, Vertical House Records, and Black Rose Records. Music for the film will be provided by Tony Jenkins, while Jennifer Gibson will serve as the lead makeup artist. Public relations for “Marriage Bites” are managed by GTK PR Agency, LLC, ensuring that the film receives the attention it deserves as it approaches its release.For ongoing updates and to follow the journey of “Marriage Bites,” be sure to check out their IMBb Page at https://www.imdb.com/title/tt31947445
