The cinematic landscape is about to be graced with a captivating fusion of horror and comedy as post-production officially commences on the eagerly awaited film, “Marriage Bites.” This innovative project promises to explore both genres while cleverly weaving in contemporary themes related to social media and modern relationships. Filming occurred at the state-of-the-art Studio Huntsville in Alabama and the esteemed Thunderdome Studios, located just outside Atlanta, setting the stage for a visually striking and narratively compelling film.
At the heart of “Marriage Bites” lies the story of Martin, portrayed by the talented Joe Komara, and Linda, played by the versatile Ashley Hargrove. This young couple faces an unexpected and surreal challenge when Martin is bitten by a vampire, which sends their already strained marriage spiraling into chaos. This shocking twist forces them to confront unsettling truths about their relationship in a darkly comedic manner. Hargrove stars Linda and serves as the scriptwriter and assistant director, ensuring a rich, complex narrative that promises thrills and laughter in equal measures.
The film boasts an exceptional crew, including Quinn Gardner, who takes on the vital role of 1st Assistant Director. Gardner brings a wealth of experience to the project, having previously worked in various capacities, including Production Manager and Location Manager. With aspirations to become the First AD on high-budget features, Gardner’s extensive background, including contributions to projects like “Unsolved Mysteries,” will be instrumental in shaping the film’s overall vision. Complementing Gardner’s expertise is Calah Frazier, the 2nd Assistant Director, who enhances the team with an impressive portfolio that includes work on notable productions such as “Red One,” “The Color Purple,” and “Naomi.”
One film location was Studio Huntsville, celebrated for its cutting-edge facilities, providing the perfect backdrop for its unique narrative. Additional scenes were shot at Thunderdome Studios, a well-known venue for successful horror films. Combining these two locations will create a visually captivating experience that enhances the film’s engaging storyline.
Joe Komara shared his enthusiasm about the project, stating, “I am thrilled to be part of this innovative venture that intertwines horror and comedy in such a clever manner. With our talented team working diligently behind the scenes, I can’t wait for audiences to experience the final product.” His excitement reflects the collective passion of the cast and crew, who are committed to bringing “Marriage Bites” to life.
The film delves into Martin and Linda’s unconventional marriage, taking a dark comedic twist when Linda discovers her husband’s secret has been transformed into a vampire. This revelation sets the stage for exploring themes such as rediscovery, resilience, and the significance of love and support in overcoming unforeseen challenges. As Martin grapples with his new identity and the chaos it brings, Linda is compelled to confront her insecurities and adapt to her husband’s extraordinary reality.
“Marriage Bites” features a diverse and talented cast that enhances its appeal. Joe Komara, recognized for his performances in “Falling for the Competition” and “A Perfect Christmas Pairing,” brings depth and charisma to Martin’s character. Ashley Hargrove, celebrated for her roles in “Nashville,” “Fairwood,” and “Unnerving,” not only portrays Linda but also shapes the film’s narrative through her contributions as the scriptwriter and executive producer.
Supporting cast members add further richness to the film, including Darren Ewing, known for his standout roles in “Troll 2” and “Unaccompanied Minors,” who embodies the character of Milton. Ava Connolly, recognized for her performances in “Zero” and “Ragged Heart,” takes on the role of Morgan, adding another layer of complexity to the story. The film also features notable talents such as James Duval, acclaimed for his work in “Hawaii Five-O” and “Gone in 60 Seconds,” and Robert LaSardo, who enhances the character of Counselor Doug with his extensive experience from over 170 productions.
Additional cast members include Zachary Vazquez, known for appearances in popular productions like “Baywatch,” “Magic Mike XXL,” and “The Vampire Diaries.” Grayson Thorne Kilpatrick, recognized for impactful roles in “American Horror Story” and Netflix’s “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story,” brings intensity and depth to the ensemble. Angela Russell Moore, noted for her performance in “Born Again,” Krishna Sistla Ward, recognized for her roles in “You’re Cordially Invited” and “Law & Order,” and Daniel Emery Ward, known for his performances in “Road Trip” and “The Return of Swamp Thing,” further enhance the film’s compelling cast. Wynn Reichert, known for his work in “Secretariat,” “Masterminds,” and “Dark Waters,” adds another layer of talent to the project.
The “Marriage Bites” concept emerged from a desire to explore the horror-comedy genre comprehensively and entertainingly. The creator was inspired by a photograph of Joe Komara as a vampire and envisioned a fun character that would resonate with audiences. By incorporating the complexities of married life alongside the supernatural elements, the film aims to provide an engaging narrative that explores the couple’s struggle to save their marriage while navigating the challenges of vampire existence. Incorporating social media theories into the storyline adds a contemporary twist, reflecting the absurdity of certain beliefs that have gained traction online in recent years.
At its core, “Marriage Bites” delves into love, resilience, and the journey of rediscovery within relationships. Martin’s transformation into a vampire disrupts his life and forces Linda to confront her insecurities, ultimately illustrating the importance of support and understanding as they navigate their new reality together.
What distinguishes “Marriage Bites” is its clever integration of social media phenomena, offering a humorous critique of modern society’s fascination with online trends. The film highlights how characters often blindly follow these trends, leading to absurd and perilous situations. Thus, it serves as both an entertaining narrative and a cautionary tale about the importance of discerning truth from fiction in the digital age.
Strategically chosen filming locations enhance the narrative depth. Diverse settings, including office spaces, morgues, cemeteries, and arcade scenes, contribute to the film’s visual storytelling.
Audiences can also anticipate impressive special effects and thrilling stunts, thanks to the expertise of SFX artist Tara Merryman and stunt performer Justin Harvey. Harvey, known for his role as stunt coordinator in films such as “Spirit Unforgiving” and “Destiny’s Chase,” brings a wealth of experience to the film’s action sequences.
The project has garnered support from various sponsors. Tony Jenkins’s composition of the film’s soundtrack adds another layer of excitement to the production. GTK PR Agency manages public relations for “Marriage Bites, ” ensuring the film receives the necessary attention as the release date approaches.
For those interested in supporting or investing in this exciting film, inquiries can be directed to [email protected], or contributions can be made through PayPal at [email protected]. Fans can also participate in the “Marriage Bites” Indiegogo campaign to support the project.
To stay updated on the journey of “Marriage Bites,” be sure to follow their IMDb page or Instagram account. With the anticipation building and a talented team at the helm, “Marriage Bites” is poised to become a must-see film for fans of both horror and comedy alike, promising a unique cinematic experience that will leave audiences entertained and amused.
