The struggles of a young boy dealing with autism is the focus of a new movie still in production, scenes of which are being filmed in Smithville and DeKalb County.
A crew was in town Sunday shooting scenes at F.Z. Webb and Sons Gifts. Filming has also been done at other locations here. Local homes, businesses, courthouse, landmarks, and people are expected to be seen in the movie. It is scheduled for release later this year.
“Missing Michael” is the story of 15 year old Michael Brooks, the middle sibling between 2 caring sisters, and the product of loving, hard-working parents. And though Michael looks no different from any other 15-year old boy, he is. He is autistic. He is loving and smart, and has an affinity for details, but sometimes he holds thoughts to himself, because by the time he’s ready to get them out, the moment has passed. But as you’ll also see, he’s not bothered a bit by late delivery of his opinion!
In any family, there are ups and downs, but you’ll see Michael’s resilience. With that advantage, he recovers after his father’s debilitating stroke and his mother’s accidental death. He misses his Mom, and his Dad is no longer up to their weekly chess game from the living room easy chair. But Michael comes out the other side bringing humor and wisdom into the lives of others. And he enjoys it! Laugh at his wisecracks! Hear him lay it out with a side-handed wit that leaves ‘em wondering…. until he’s safely out of reach!
Michael is also the inspiration for 19-year old sister Claire who is now struggling to keep herself and them together. And you’ll love how Michael adores his younger sister Emily, because after all, he is her big brother.
Claire finds that though her mother had proudly referred to her as an adult, she is now challenged to the core in her new role. With each pressing circumstance, she can only see a narrow road before her filled with pits and stumbling blocks with the complications of an embittered and imposing social worker, and a former boyfriend who feels neglected. But Claire discovers that her mother has left behind a journal – a connection that fills the expanse between them and imparts to her strength and courage, which she shares with her younger sister at a low moment for both of them.
Just before the final credits roll, you will truly be impressed as you experience first-hand the Brooks’ family working through their home-stretch struggles.
The Missing Michael story is captured with performances by Robert Biehn as Michael Brooks, Kelly Wyrick as his sister Claire, Poem Atkinson as his younger sister Emily, Helen Finnegan as Mom Marge Brooks, and David Parker as Officer Ken Taylor.
Chris Posen is the Writer, Director, and Producer of the film and Ken Robinson of Murfreesboro with ties to DeKalb County is Co-Producer and Director of Photography.
For more information about the film visit http://www.missingmichaelmovie.com.
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