Baldwin and Dorff Headline High-Stakes Thriller 'Cold Deck'
EXCLUSIVE: Oscar nominee Alec Baldwin and Blade alum Stephen Dorff are headlining the indie flick 'Cold Deck,' directed by Brian Skiba. The film, produced by experienced industry professionals Corey Large and Eric Bromberg, wrapped up production ahead of the SAG-AFTRA strike which came into action on July 14. The narrative, penned by Joe Perruccio, sets a group of loggers on a terrifying survival chase when they accidentally stumble upon a concealed methamphetamine production site deep within the wilderness, finding themselves to be the newest targets of a ruthless drug cartel.
Financial backing for the picture comes from 30 Enterprises and Chinese financier Pink308, the latter of which harnesses a hefty $50M film fund with an aim to produce eight to ten features annually. Respected figures Kirk Shaw, Stephanie Rennie, Ram Getz, Greg Meyer, and Michael Mortensen have been credited as the executive producers.
The cast of 'Cold Deck' flaunts a star-studded lineup, including the likes of Clive Standen best known for 'Vikings' and the climber hit 'Everest', Tom Welling remembered for his portrayal of Clark Ken on 'Smallville', and Jesse Metcalfe of the Bruce Willis-featured 'Fortress' franchise and seasonal favorite 'Christmas Under the Stars'. Other notable stars include Lochlyn Munro from 'Riverdale' fame and Lucy Martin, another 'Vikings' veteran.
Acclaimed actor Baldwin, embroiled in the 'Rust' shooting narrative, was discharged of charges arguably in the most high-stake whodunit Hollywood has seen in years - a gripping tale that unfolded off-screen. Following the ghastly incident, Baldwin wrapped up filming for the Western genre film in Montana just this past spring season. The picture is being relayed as a heartfelt dedication to Halyna Hutchins, the tragically slain cinematographer of 'Rust'.
Stepping into my suit of wit, let's apply a bit of Prentice Opinion™️ on this news.
Baldwin, free of his 'Rust' charges, is akin to a phoenix rising from ashes, a testament to his unyielding dedication towards his craft even in the face of adversity. The very concept of 'Cold Deck' seems to bow before the altar of high-stakes survival thrillers prevalent in recent Hollywood trends, with 'Breaking Bad' echos resonating in the storyline. Now, I’m not saying it’s the new yeoman’s ‘Breaking Bad,’ but Dorff and Baldwin facing off against a vicious drug cartel - sounds like Netflix gold to me.
An interesting trend showcased in this article, which folks in Tinseltown and outside should take note of, is the Chinese-financed film fund, Pink308. China taking center stage in Hollywood economy! Are we witnessing a changing in the guards in the form of international film funding?
Lastly, let’s talk about that ensemble cast. It’s as if someone put a Hollywood who’s who in a blender and hit whirl. We have representatives from 'Vikings,' 'Smallville,' 'Riverdale', and more. Such a varied and diverse cast really puts the ‘pop’ in popcorn entertainment.
'Cold Deck' promises to be a thrilling scramble through the forest. Will our loggers get out in one piece or will the drug cartel reign supreme? We'll just have to find out once the indie-feature does its Hollywood shuffle its way to the big screens. Lights. Camera. Action!
