David Warren Teams with Tri-State Filmmakers to Bring Top Selling Novel to Life
Jest – It Waits No Longer.
May 16, 2016 – New Jersey – Acclaimed author David Warren has taken the first steps toward bringing a live adaption of his bestselling novel, Jest, to life. The New Jersey native has teamed with Horror Society senior editor Michael DeFellipo and Potent Media head honcho Christian Jude Grillo to create a short film that exists inside the world of Jest that serves as a prequel to his book and will be an introduction of the subject material for horror fans who can look forward to the feature film adaption in early 2018.
Jest – It Waits No Longer was brought to print by Brighton Publishing LLC in May 2011. Since then it has garnered over two dozen positive reviews with Baron Book Review saying, “David Warren has a talent for spinning a sweet tale into a spine-tingling thriller” and Shivers of Horror comparing Warren’s writing style and plot progression to that of Richie Tankersley Cusick and Christopher Pike. Jest is currently available on Amazon for $12.95 and Amazon Kindle for $5.99. Jest follows young Nicole Carzon, who inherits a majestic castle from her late grandfather. As she and her friends visit the castle to survey the property, a slasher straight out of medieval times starts hacking and slashing the new visitors.
The screenplay for the short film Jest was written by David Warren, based on his original novel, with co-writer Christian Jude Grillo. Grillo will also be co-directing the film along with Michael DeFellipo, with Jest serving as DeFellipo’s motion picture debut. DeFellipo will be producing the film through his company Shillow Productions in association with Grillo’s Potent Media. Warren is set to executively produce the project.
Casting is nearly complete, but already several cast members have signed on to the film. Cosplayer and actor Adam King will play the role of Roger, the castle’s caretaker. Sharon Lentz of “Dark Shadows” fame will be play the role of Beatrice, a motherly figure who also helps in the upkeep of the castle and caters to guests. Carmela Hayslett will play Andrea, a snobby tourist in desperate need of an attitude adjustment. Randy Memoli will play the role of Bo, another tourist who is unaware of the danger surrounding the guests. Further casting announcements are pending.
Jest will be filmed at Kip’s Castle on the border of Montclair and Verona in New Jersey. Built in 1902, Kip’s Castle sits on 11 acres of beautiful country land and stands as a historic look at early twentieth century architecture. It is currently open to the public and more information can be found here.
Principal photography is expected to begin June 14, 2016 with an anticipated premiere slated for late Summer 2016. A Facebook page launch with more details is forthcoming.
