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A New Film - "Liars and Lunatics"

by Denise Kaminsky

"Does religion and film mix, like oil and water?"

Cinematic history has shown us, through films like "The Ten Commandments," "The Bells of St. Mary," and "The Passion of the Christ" that audiences do want to consider theological fare with their popcorn.

Now blend in a strongly developed script, a SAG ultra-low budget independent cast and crew, a pinch of suburban Queens, a fold of a Lutheran church doubling as a sacred courtroom with over fifty extras, and you can visualize the production of "Liars and Lunatics" film experience, as they strive to overcome the stigmatic question with a dash of controversy.

Recently invited to the set, I witnessed veteran actor Carson Grant (www.carsongrant.com) at the top of a 15 foot ladder assisting a hard working crew drape curtains to sound-proof the quaint oak-trimmed Immanuel Lutheran Church. This was one of many preparations to shoot the final crucial trial scene which bring about the story's resolution, with Carson Grant portraying both characters, psychiatrist Dr. Donovin and prosecutor Dubious, the diabolical alter ego of James Jamisin, (Joseph Halsey) a moody-evangelist now committed to a mental heath institute, grieving the death of his girlfriend Paige (Maya Serhan).

Under the direction of Robert Munoz, this riveting story follows the character of James, who wrestles with his faith in opposition to the memories of his non-believing dead girlfriend, while outwardly confronting his attraction to female therapist Dr. Frolick (Allison Lane), and within an imaginary courtroom with prosecutor Dubious.

Among the principal actors are Karen Lynn Gorney (as the Judge) regularly featured in "All My Children," "The Sopranos" and originally known for starring opposite John Travolta in "Saturday Night Fever." Joseph Halsey (as James Jamisin) has appeared in "The Cosby Show," "Law and Order: SVU" and "Guiding Light." Carson Grant (as Dr. Donovin/Dubious) has created over 250 film characters and has been featured at the 2006 Cannes Film Festival.

Producer/Writer/Director Robert Munoz has worked in the music, theatre, and television industry in his native Canada, including directing a Christmas special called "A Christmas Card" which broadcasted on Canada's Vision Television and which was honored at the Houston Film Festival. Munoz has also developed musicals in Toronto, Los Angeles, St. Louis, and most recently Off-Broadway in New York City.

"Liars and Lunatics," is Munoz's first full-length feature film project, which is set for an early 2007 release with future plans for a sequel.

For more information on "Liars and Lunatics" and CubeCity Entertainment, Inc., go to www.cubecity.org

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