Hundreds turn out for new indie film

By Anya Tikka
MILFORD — “Half Seas Over" — the indie film made by Popfilm’s young director/writer/all-things-behind-the-scenes trio — was by all accounts a smash success, bringing upwards of 200 people to the historic Milford Theater.
Christian Fescine, Everett Lauster and Shane Dittsworth created a layered cultural experience, with local artists showing their work before the show. Patrons traveled from as far away as Florida and Philadelphia to attend, Fescine and Lauster said after the show.
“The event went without a hitch,” Fescine said. “The weather held up.”
Some of the artists sold their creations, too.
“As for what I have to say about the event...it was fantastic!" Leah Kirk of Milford said in an email. "I was impressed at the quality of the films (both short films and the main film "Half Seas Over"), being that they were made by a couple of local guys, with the help of some friends, with a near-to-nothing budget.”
She couldn’t help but contrast the show with others she’d seen there.
“I've seen other movies that were produced by local directors and local talent that don't compare,” she said.
The filmmakers got a lot of support from local residents and the town itself, Fescine and Lauster added.
“Because of the success, we want more," Fescine said. "How can we make it bigger to draw in more people?”
Milford has a rich tradition in film. Not only is the past illustrious, with the very earliest movies from the Silent Era having been filmed here, but many new films are now being made by local residents. The annual Black Bear Film Festival brings in thousands of people every October. And last fall also featured a "Hollywood on the Delaware" gala, where celebrities mingled with local residents in a tribute to the area's past and future in film.
“I’m not sure if we’re part of it,” Fescine mused, talking about the Black Bear Festival. He'd like the film scene to be year-round and made more inclusive . Let people know Milford is a very cool place to visit, where they can enjoy a beer, a good meal, and many other attractions — including films, he said.
Jerry Beaver, a Black Bear Film Festival founder, is supporting them.
“We have a very good rapport with him," Fescine said.
The three making up Popfilms are busy planning their next venture, and are hoping to get help with funding.
All age groups attended the showing, from tweens to elders, Lauster said.
Popfilms can be found on social media at Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.