Movie-goers will have to wait until December 2012 to see the second major feature film to be shot almost entirely in Anchorage. “The Frozen Ground” wrapped up shooting just before Thanksgiving. Written and directed by Scott Walker, the film is based on the investigation and capture of serial killer Robert Hanson. Filming came at a time when business is typically slower in the service and tourism industries. Since most of the work was done in October and November, the production company will receive a higher tax credit and some local companies were able to earn extra income when they might normally be closed. Winter outfitters also saw an uptick in sales, since most of the out-of-state cast and crew didn’t own the necessary gear.
Hundreds of Alaskans had a part in the film. While many were background actors, 32 earned speaking roles and dozens more worked behind the scenes on everything from set dressing and construction to lighting and camera operation. Steven Rychetnik of the locally owned company SprocketHeads, was thrilled to be the B camera operator.
“For five weeks I'd look through my camera viewfinder and see John Cusack and Nicolas Cage looking back,” said Rychetnik. “What an opportunity for an Alaskan to work at the highest level of filmmaking. I felt like I died and went to film school.”
Producers Mark Ordesky and Jane Fleming of Amber Entertainment said they enjoyed shooting in Anchorage and would definitely pass the word along to industry colleagues. Ordesky, whose credits include the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy, compares Anchorage to where Wellington, New Zealand, was a decade ago. The Rings trilogy helped put Wellington on the film industry map. Anchorage crew are talented and committed to their craft and are adding more to their ranks as more film makers choose Alaska as the principal location.
According to producers, budget for “The Frozen Ground” is just over $20 million.
