Poultry and PrejudiceStatus: Complete
About the Story
IN LOVING MEMORY OF MY GRANDPARENTS ELIZABETH AND PAUL TELEKY
“I know they are looking down at me and are proud of what they see.” About the StoryAfter working together on Radio Silence at Filmmakers Central School of Cinema in August 2002, director/producer Sherry Teleky Waple and co-director/screenwriter Kristina Foster decided to join forces. Sherry gave Kristina some location options and asked her to write her a short script. Two weeks later, Poultry and Prejudice was born. In this social drama/satire, Tessa Darcy, a self-absorbed local beauty queen prepare to enter her chicken, Heidi, into the Birdsville County Fair. The main event, the Poultry Show, draws people from all over the state and the competition is fierce. The Darcy family has produced the prize-winning chicken in the show for the past ten years. Tragedy strikes when Heidi goes missing. Intense accusations and arguments reveal small town prejudices against people with various ethnic backgrounds, social stature (or lack thereof), criminal records and alcoholism. These people are all trying to start fresh but carry a stigma which lends itself to intense finger pointing. “At first, I had a hard time envisioning what Kristina was trying to get across to people” explains Sherry after her first reading. However, over the next few months it became crystal clear. And so what was once only a dream becomes a reality. About the ProductionHaving a script was only the start. Now a crew had to be found. Starting with only a co-director, Kristina Foster and a director of photography, Abhijoy Gandhi, Sherry was nervous. However, things seemed to just fall into place. “I was fortunate because my crew basically found me.” Sherry explains how people started contacting her inquiring about the production and offering their services, many of which were from the local area. “I saw the casting call signs posted throughout town and I had to find out what is was all about,” explains Tom Richards (editor/sound designer) of Middletown, Pennsylvania. One visit to the casting call and two e-mails later and Tom was onboard. Due to the ultra-low budget, Sherry utilized many of her family members and friends to help with the production. “It was an experience I never dreamed I would have a chance to be a part of,” states Sherry’s long-time friend Nancy Wolfgang (production designer) also a Middletown resident. Within a month, the crew of Poultry and Prejudice was found. Poultry and Prejudic e’s initial casting call was held on Friday, April 18, 2003 and Saturday, April 19, 2003 at the Prince Edwin Masonic Temple 486 in Middletown, Pennsylvania. Middletown is no New York or Hollywood, but there was a surprising turnout of 122 individuals. These individuals came from all over east coast, as well as, quite a few from the local area. “I could not believe how many people were coming from all over to try out for a part,” explains first time co-producer Dan Scully. Things ran smoothly with the help of many of Sherry’s friends and family who manned the waiting area. “It was interesting to watch as the actors prepared for their roles,” says Sherry’s mother Linda Shaffner (craft services) who helped sign the individuals in and who has been a constant supporter through the entire film. “My mom has been great, always there for me. Thanks mom” expresses director Waple. While people were preparing downstairs, the auditions were being held upstairs under the watchful eye of the director, co-director and director of photography. These three thoroughly analyzed each individual who stood in front of them, hoping to find the right person for each role. “Finding the right person to portray your image of the character is the beginning to a successful film,” explains Abhijoy Gandhi (director of photography). After two weeks of reviewing the notes and screen tests of every person that presented themselves for the project, Sherry, Kris and Abhijoy narrowed the field from 122 to 25 individuals and the callbacks were scheduled. The callbacks were held on Saturday, May 4, 2003 at the Capitol Dinner Theatre in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Being her first production, Sherry Teleky Waple wanted the expertise of a veteran to help her narrow the field even further. So she asked casting director Sharon S. Hillegas from Mishar Productions to help with the callbacks. With Mrs. Hillegas’ help the field was narrowed even further. Now the final decision laid on the shoulders of the director. “This is one of the most difficult things I have ever had to do. There is so much talent, it’s really tough to turn someone away,” explains director Sherry Teleky Waple. That may be the case, but she made the choice and two weeks later, Poultry and Prejudice had its cast. About the LocationsThe entire film was shot in director Waple’s hometown of Middletown, Pennsylvania. This decision was made for both financial and sentimental reasons. “It was cost efficient for us to shoot close to home to eliminate the costs of travel and lodging, but I also wanted to shoot where I grew up and still reside,” states director Waple. The primary location is the home of Sherry’s grandparents Paul and Elizabeth Teleky, who have passed away some years ago. “I dedicated this film to them because they always told me I could do anything I put my mind to. I wanted to prove to myself and to them (as they look on me from above), that I could. So I chose to use their house.” The three-story farmhouse dates back to the mid 1800s. This house was once known as the Mansion House and was used to house the men who worked at the Middletown Furnace located within walking distance. The Middletown Furnace was tore down in 1903, however, many of the men called the Mansion House their home until the owner, Mr. Hutchinson, passed away and the house was sold to the Telekys. The Telekys have owned the house for over fifty years and it was the perfect setting for the vision that director Waple conceived. The rooms are simple and have the comfortable county feelin g to them. The six acre property lends itself to several scenes in the film as well. “It was amazing how large the film looked just because of this one location,” explains director of photography Abhijoy Gandhi. Another location that was needed was a football field. War Memorial Field was director Waple’s number one choice. “I spend a lot of time going to football games with my friends when I was younger and with my husband later.” With the help of Middletown School District’s Athletic Director, Lee Bloes, War Memorial Field was lent to the company for the shoot. This location had some sentimental value to several of Sherry’s family members as well. “My dad played football all through high school on this field and my husband played in high school as well with his 1975 team finishing that season with a 10-0-0 perfect season. The final location needed was a country fair setting. “This was not an easy task to accomplish,” explains director Waple with frustration. Before we decided to shoot the film entirely in Middletown, we planned to use the Pennsylvania State Farm Show Building which is home to many agricultural events throughout the year. We had insurance for our production, but unfortunately, the required insurance for use of this building was financially impossible on our budget. Being forced to find another location posed to be a difficult task. Every avenue that was pursued, was later disregarded because of financial reasons. Finally, the light switched on. There was no better place to hold the county fair then at Hoffer Park, a local park in Middletown. “I don’t know why we didn’t think of it in the first place,” retorts executive producer Alex Teleky. The park is a beautiful wooded area that runs along the Swatara Creek and is the home to the annual Historic Arts and Crafts Festival held each June. Families visit the park every day to picnic, play at the playground, fish and play basketball. The enclosed pavilion is utilized for many family reunions as well as weekly senior citizens center activities. Two weeks before the shoot and this location was almost not able to be secured. “I was leaving for vacation in two hours and was just told by the Borough President that we were not able to use t he park. I just lost one of my major locations and had no idea where I would go next,” explains director Waple. “They were under the impression that we were going to take over the park. They thought this was a big Hollywood productions with tractor trailers filled with equipment and people. They were just concerned that the public wouldn’t be able to utilize the park,” explains Alex Teleky (executive producer). However, after assuring the Borough President that this was not the case, the problem was solved and permission was granted for use of the property. “My dad really came through for me. I don’t know what I would have done if we couldn’t use the park. Thanks dad.” RehearsalJune 20-22, 2003 began the rehearsal stage for Poultry and Prejudice. Friday evening and the cast and crew finally get to see who was chosen for the project. A discussion of character profiles and a table read made for a good start. Things were progressing well. Later that evening, the cast along with director/producer Sherry Teleky Waple and some of her family members headed to a local pub to watch Dominick Cicco (Mark Darcy) perform. Dominick’s talents do not end in front of the camera. He is also a very talented singer and guitar player. He entertained the patrons of the pub and for one number was accompanied by Poultry’s actress Robyn Simpson (Cathy) in Kid Rock and Sheryl Crow’s The Picture. The two had the people wanting more. This was a great bonding experience for the cast and director Waple. Saturday morning, first day of rehearsal. Mother nature was still undecided as to whether she wanted to bring rain or sunshine. Hence, today’s rehearsal was run indoors at the primary location, Sherry’s grandparent’s house. “It has a family feel. A lot of family was there, providing a close knit feeling, which I thought added to the atmosphere of what we the actors were trying to convey,” Dominick (Mark Darcy) adds his take on using the family’s house. There were quite a few fun moments as some of our “city folk” had their first encounter with the chicken. “I don’t do chickens” retorts L en Shaffer (Mikey Darcy). By the end, they were all handling the chicken (trained by Sherry’s father Alex Teleky) as though they were raised on a farm, including Len. Following the rehearsal, Robyn Simpson (Cahty) and Bill Shiplet (Ben) headed out to the farm to spend some time with the horses they would be working with the next day. This was nothing out of the ordinary for Bill Shiplet since he is also an equine trainer and accomplished rider. Robyn on the other hand, was a bit nervous. This would only be the second time she rode a horse, however Sherry was certain she would be fine. “Tequilla is a great horse and knows when someone is unsure and she takes really good care of them,” explains Sherry, not only the director/producer, but also the owner of Tequilla. Within ten minutes, Robyn was relaxed and looked like she had been riding all her life. Sunday was the last day of rehearsal. The horses arrived at 7:30a.m. and it looked promising that the sun may actually shine. Sherry rides her own horse, Tequilla Sunrise, as the actresses prepare. “What people don’t realize is that the animals are not used to all the cameras and lights. It is all very intimidating to them” explains director Waple. Patience pays off and all goes well with the horses. That is however, until the rain starts coming down. Time for another break as the actors head inside and the horses head to the garage. Thirty minutes later and it’s still raining. However, Bill Shiplet (Ben) and Todd Michel Smith (Jack) will not let that stop them. They want to run their scene even I the rain. So, raincoats on, umbrellas over the camera and the smell of wet horse in the air, the show goes on. The actors were stellar with their performances, even as the rain poured down. The only skeptical one was ADJ (the horse) who looked on as the actors ran through their fight scene. “I don’t think she knew what was going on and their sudden movements kind of scared her,” states the horse’s owner Kelsey Teleky. After a few run-throughs, things were fine. A long lunch break follows and we start to see the sun. The cast and crew now head over to Memorial Field to where Todd Michel Smith makes a stellar showing as he kicks the football through the goal posts on his 1st attempt. The day finally wraps at Hoffer Park which will portray the final scene for the “Birdsville County Fair”. A brief run-through of the area and goodbyes were said. Co-producer Dan Scully sums up his first film experience during rehearsals, “It was really neat watching a script come to life. It is hard to explain, but watching the actors, total strangers to one another just days before suddenly become a family is a mind blowing experience. I just couldn’t believe I was there watching this story unfold right before my eyes.” Final PrepIt’s two days before the shoot and there is still so much to be done. First and foremost is the stunt chickens. Sherry is very much an animal lover and takes every precaution to ensure the safety of all the animals used on the set. Since there were several scenes where the chicken would be harmed, Sherry had to find artificial chickens that looked real. Vi’s Country Furnishing in Mechanicsburg, PA provided just the prop she was searching for. Unfortunately, they only had white chickens and since Heidi is a Rhoad Island Red they had to figure out a way to change the color. “Never in my life did I think someone would ask me to air brush a chicken,” explains Tim Gehman (special effects) of Sherry’s request for him to paint an artificial chicken. However, Tim rose to the occasion and painted Heidi Darcy’s twin. With that taken care of, time to move forward. Shot lists and call sheets had to be finalized, final headcount given to the caterer, and equipment to be picked up. “People have no idea how many phone calls have to be made and how much haggling goes into getting the price you can afford for your equipment and all the items you need.” Sherry’s haggling paid off as she got all the items she needed and kept under the budget. “I think Sherry was a used car salesman in her former life,” explains friend and craft service manager Barb Campbell. Now the hardest task of all, keeping the film under budget. ShowtimeThe first day was tough. The first shot never got off until three hours after the initial call time and the weather outside was rainy, hot and humid. That was a relief compared to the 102 degree temperature that was reached inside the house. “It was so hot inside that I thought I was going to melt,” retorts Kels ey Teleky (production assistan). Alex Teleky (poultry handler) makes sure the chicken was only brought inside when absolutely necessary so that she would not be effected by the heat. “The heat can take its toll on a chicken just like a human,” explains Alex as he mists the chicken with cool water. There is no doubt there were many cast and crew members that were wishing they were the chicken at that moment. People may think that making films is all about fame, glamour and glory, but it’s more like hot lights, cramped working spaces, heat and sweat. However, relief was found nine hours later as they moved forward. The next scene was not a part of the original script. Confident that Elle Reilly (Tessa Darcy) would be able to give her the performance she was looking for, director Waple added this scene to help the audience to understand how self-absorbed and into herself Tessa Darcy is. It was fun for everyone to watch as Elle Reilly (Tessa) strutted her stuff around the room. The song we originally selected was unavailable due to monetary issues. However, Alfred Pellegrini (music composer) came up with a great alternative. “I actually think this song works better because it is more in tune with what kids today listen to,” admits Sherry. The rain subsided later that afternoon so the crew was able to move outside to shoot the scene in the cornfield. This scene was originally scheduled for the third day, but since we were already behind, we decided to move it up and hopefully make up for some lost time along the way. This was a fun scene and Kristina Foster (Sue) seemed to be enjoying herself as she snuck into the room and stole the bird, making various ninja moves and threatening us with those chopsticks and chasing the bird through the cornfield. Not to worry, the chicken was never harmed. The stunt chicken made its debut as Kris sent it soaring through the air. Fourteen hours after the initial call time and it’s finally time to call it a night. The next day started with a beautiful sunrise. “We wanted to catch mother nature at her best while giving the impression that the animals roam free,” explains director Sherry Teleky Waple. Roam free is exactly what they did. It did not take the horses long to figure out that they had no restraints on them and could basically go wherever they wanted to. At one point, they decided to go over the hill toward the road. Fortunately, the crew thought ahead and formed a barrier of humans and this barrier caused the horses to turn up the driveway and made for what turned out to be the film’s opening shot. “The horses were in synch with each other, it was just magnificent,” smile Sherry as they captured what she considered a perfect shot. Next we headed toward the trail and it’s time for Robyn (Cahty) to ride. “Robyn was really nervous about riding, even though I knew she would be fine,” states Emily Benner (equine handler). Tequilla was a bit skeptical of the dolly moving beside her, but continued at Robyn’s request. The scene was shot without a hitch. In another area of the location, Bill (Ben) and Todd (Jack) were preparing for their big fight scene with the assistance of Brian Vikto and Bob Sciorillo form Mike DePasquale’s Action Film Academy. When Sherry initially asked the two men if they would be willing to participate in a fight scene they accepted with great anticipation. Sherry wanted the fight scene to look realistic and with the help of Jack Brennan (head production assistant) gained the services of Mike DePasquale and his team. “They were very professional and did a superior job. They would be an asset to any production team,” stated director Waple. Visitors on the set today received a treat as they watched the scene come together. “I had no idea how much detail was involved,” states visitor Chip Brooks from Carlisle, PA. “It was just amazing.” What is even more amazing is that the crew was actually ahead of schedule for the day and if all went well, would be able to make up some time from the day before. This is a key factor in finishing production on time and under budget. Following the lunch break, it was time for the big romance scene between Elle (Tessa) and Bill (Ben). We wanted to portray a soap opera-t ype image with this scene, thus go way overboard, and overboard they went, fog and all. The next scene was initially meant for Tessa to tease Ben a little, let him believe she was interested in him. However, they (director Waple and director of photography Abhijoy Gandhi) thought it would be a good idea to put a spin on it. They ran the scene as though Tessa was really interested in Ben and kisses him. The actors arose to the occasion and gave a magnificent performance. What they didn’t know was now the original scene would come back into play. The entire scene that was just shot was nothing but one of Ben’s daydreams. “I thought is was great! It really makes the audience see just how active his imagination is when it comes to Tessa.” Bill Shiple (Ben) explains when finding out the real scenario. Later that day it was time for the confrontation between Elle (Tessa) and Robyn (Cathy). The constant competition that builds up between them throughout the film finally comes to a climax. “We went with the over-the-hip shot to give it the old-time western feel,” explains director Waple. “Like the shoot out at the OK Cor ral.” The actresses did a wonderful job in escalating the tension. Guaranteed that if there were guns around, Tessa and Cathy would have used them. The lighting is lost when the sun begins to set so it’s time to call it a day, and a very productive one at that. Day three begins at Memorial Field. This is the first opportunity the crew has to set up the shot, nonetheless, they are ready to go within the hour. Utilizing many of Middletown’s own football players with the help of Coach Donghia, makes the scene appear as though occurring during a regular practice. “The boys really enjoyed themselves. It think they have a new respect for what it takes to make a movie though,” explains Coach Donghia. Todd Smith (Jack) enjoyed himself as well. “I played football when I was in school and it felt good to be back out there again,” explains Todd as he sets up for the second shot. However, a break was needed before continuing due to a conflict within the crew. You hear all the stories about “creative differences” and &# 8220;conflict among cast and crew” during shots, well, this one was no exc eption. “Things like this can happen when you have people from all walks of life and varying levels of professional experience working together,” explains Sherry’s husband Frank Waple, Jr. Fortunately, director/producer Waple was able to address the problem and the production was up and running again within ten minutes. After the scene was complete, Middletown’s players wanted to have their photo taken with Todd. Little did Todd know that the players had planned. Following the photo, the players dumped the entire cooler of ice and water over Todd. “It was great! The best time I’ve had all summer,” exclaims Todd as he shakes ice from his head and thanks the guys. The crew packed up the gear and headed back to the farmhouse. It was now time for Kristina Foster who had been acting as first assistant director to step in front of the camera in her role of Sue. Kristina’s move from her position made it necessary for second assistant director, Dan Scully, to step in and be the right hand to the director. “By the end of the scene I was deemed the AD Nazi,” Scully explains as he assures that the scene finish ed on time without any major problems. “He stepped in and knew what he had to do and he added a bit of comedic relief to the day which was appreciated by many. He did a great job, “ explains director Waple. Kristina (Sue), Judy (Joyce Darcy) and Len (Mikey Darcy) gave outstanding performances. The sun was beating down on them, but they never faltered. That is of course, until Len chased after Kristina through the cornfield and fell as he entered. “That is definitely one for the bloopers reel,” states Jonathan Boal (camera operator). Len took it in stride and laughed at himself. “Len is a very talented performer and very easy to work with. If he keeps at this pace, I am sure we will hear his name again in the future,” assures director Waple. And we would be remiss if we did not mention Kristina’s improvisation when she actually ate the chicken feet that we secured from a local butcher. “Kris’s performance was great as was her professionalism throughout the entire project. Thanks for everything Kris” comments director Waple. The next scene was picking up where we left off the day before. Tessa and Cathy are at their stand off, ready for battle. “Robyn (Cathy) did an excellent job of taunting Tessa and really got the rise from her that I was looking for,” explains director Waple. Of course, this scene took a bit of time since the crew had to play peek-a-boo with the sun. “It would be out one minutes and then a big cloud would come across. We would cut and watch the clouds, just waiting for that few minutes we needed,” explains Scully (2nd AD). After about an hour the scene was finally captured. There was a lot of tension during this scene because of the games we played with the sun, the heat and setting up so many different camera angles to find the correct ones just seemed to take a lot longer then any other scene. However, the tension was broken when Jennifer Pons (Sally) drove up to the scene after spotting the two girls and exits the vehicle. You say, okay, so what? The funny thing was, the truck kept on going, right for the outhouse. “Oh shit, oh shit, oh shit!” figuratively and literally exclaimed Jennifer as she chased after the truck. The people watching dove out of the way so as to avoid being run down by the runaway truck. It was truly a moment worth remembering. In the following scene, Jennifer (Sally) was on her way to return Heidi to the Darcy’s. We wanted the point of view of Sally and Heidi as the vehicle was moving. This was not an easy task, but with the superior skills of Abhijoy Gandhi, it was accomplished. The sound crew was in the back cargo area, Abhijoy was hanging from the side of the vehicle, director Waple carried the monitor around her neck and many others wrangled cables as the vehicle began to move and the shot was captured. “I really enjoyed watching and seeing the interaction between the cast and crew,” explains visitor Glenda Ebersole. The final scene of the day was one that was a figment of Tessa’s imagination. As Cathy is telling her that she locked Tess’a bird, Heidi, in the greenhouse, Tessa’s worst thoughts came to life. Robyn (Cathy) was great at portraying the evil villain for this scene, which was a change from her ordinary roles. “I was really excited when Sherry offered me the role of Cathy because it was the first time I was offered the role to pay an evil person. I am usually playing the good girl,” explains Robyn. “The diabolical looks Robyn gave as she found the chicken and searched for a place to hide her were fabulous,” compliments director Waple. Robyn gave a stellar performance, however, Heidi was a different story. We were trying to give the appearance that the bird got so hot that it turned into a roasted chicken. Heidi did not like the smoke machine and when it would go off, she would run out of the box. It took about 45 minutes to get the shot we wanted, finally we prevailed and we called it a night. Finishing at a decent time, members of the cast and crew headed out for a little relaxation at the local bowling alley. Teams were formed in no particular order and the games began. Director Waple scored her first Turkey ever (three strikes in a row) and Len (Mikey) rolled three gutter balls then two strikes. The person to beat was camera operator Jonathan Boal and although Frank Waple, Jr. (still photographer) got close, he could not surpass him. “We had a great time. It was really nice to just relax and spend time together without worrying abo ut the film,” explains director Waple. “It was something we needed to do for the crew since they have been working so hard,” states Abhijoy. It’s the final day and probably the most difficult day since it entailed working with extras. “Judy Martini (Joyce Darcy) was great in helping us acquire the extras we needed,” explains director Waple. Several of Ms. Martini’s students and their family members came from Hazelton, PA to be a part of the project and Kristina Foster (1st AD) took charge of getting the extras into position and ready for the scene. The initial scene was just to establish the patrons entering the county fair building. “We only had about fifty people so we had to loop them through several times to get the correct image,” explains director of photography Abhijoy Gandhi. Following this shot, the crew moved inside for the presentation of the prize pullet. The heat inside the building was sweltering and the added lights did not help. Middletown’s very own Mayor Reid played the Mayor of Birdsville and Sherry’s father, Alex Teleky, player master of ceremonies and both did an outstanding job. “I know the heat was getting to them, especially Mayor Reid, but they performed their roles wonderfully,” compliments director Waple. The next scene was were the extras received their chance to shine. The camera was placed on a jib and Abhijoy panned slowly across the crowd for reaction shots and expressions. “It was very difficult for the younger children to understand not to look at the camera as it came by,” explains script supervisor Shelly Shrom-Houser. It took several takes to get them to understand this concept, but once they had it, they did great. It was also difficult to get people to cheer for an extended period of time, especially when it was so hot and way passed lunchtime. “We found the level of concentration needed to participate in a crowd scene incredible. Both of us came away with a new found respect for the movie making process,” explains extras Steve Melnick and his wife Tru Sabatino. At the lunch break, the cast and crew presented director Sherry Teleky Waple with the football used by Todd Michel Smith in earlier scenes and everyone involved sign ed it. “I want everyone to know that I would not have been able to complete this project without the support and help of each and every one of you. You are all wonderful. I truly appreciate everything you all have done for me. Thank you.” Following this tearful response, the crew finished their meal then loaded up the equipment and headed back to the farmhouse for the final two scenes of the project. The last two scenes saw the destruction of Mark Darcy (Dominick Cicco). The setting was very dark and depressing. Mark just fell off the proverbial alcohol wagon and was being scrutinized by his wife. We wanted the audience to feel his guilt and sorrow and Dominick did a superb job at relaying that emotion to the cameras. However, no apologies were good enough for Joyce Darcy (Judy Martini). She had reached her limit and Mark was told to get out. Judy did such a wonderful job when she was throwing Mark out that the individuals outside the house about one hundred yards away could hear her fury. “I thought Sherry (director) was yelling at someone. I had no idea that was Judy playing her role. That was really good,” expla ins Barb Campbell (craft services). After only four takes, director Waple calls, “It’s a wrap!” Cheers and applause can be hear around the property in celebration of a job finally completed after four very long days. “It was a difficult shoot, but we got a lot of nice footage. I am glad I was a part of the project,” acknowledges Kristina Foster. Goodbyes are said and equipment is loaded and returned to the equipment house and none too soon. On the return trip home to the farmhouse, the skies opened up and a severe storm passed through the area. “It was like our window of opportunity for good weather just closed,” explains director Waple. However, Abhijoy sums it up the best, “God said here’s your four day window, go for it girl!” And that is exactly what director Waple did. The Cast Elle Reilly - Tessa Darcy The CrewSherry Teleky Waple - Director/Producer |
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