News and Press Releases

Hearth Gets Support of Ghouls

Press Release
October 22, 2009

Ghouls will raise money for the elderly homeless this Halloween, when proceeds from the premier showings of Drive-In Horrow Show, at the Belmont Studio Cinema (376 Trapelo Road in Belmont) on Halloween Eve and Halloween Day, will go to benefit Hearth, Inc., an organization that serves the elderly homeless.

The trick-or-treat connection between the film and the non-profit Hearth (headquartered on Washington Street in the South End) stems from the relationship between writer/producer Greg Ansin and writer/artistic director Michael Neel and Hearth. Ansin is a board member and Neel is a member of the Board of Visitors.

The young film makers became connected with Hearth a few years ago when they produced Growing Old, a powerful documentary that asks old people what it’s like to reach their “golden years.” Ansin and Neel interviewed senior staff at Hearth about challenges faced by aging adults – and the increase of homelessness among older Americans.

Drive-In Horror Show received a Best Feature nomination in the 2009 Dark Carnival Film Festival and has won other honors. It features a number of local actors, including television’s Survivor winners Ethan Zohn and Jenny Morasca.

The film is tense, over the top, and funny, at times reminiscent of Tales from the Crypt and Creepshow. Greg Ansin explains, “The evening is hosted by The Projectionist, a ghastly lost soul who delights in all manner of the macabre. He is the owner of a decrepit drive-in that is staffed by various zombies, trolls, and other creepy creatures.”

The two showings that also support Hearth are at midnight, Halloween Eve, and at 1 PM on Halloween Day. The film is not for the faint of heart and is meant for an adult audience. But for those who are young at heart, there will be a costume contest with ghoulish prizes.