Bender – the true story of America’s first serial killing family premiered to an enthusiastic audience Saturday, October 8th at the C.L. Hoover Opera House in Junction City.
This was the first film for director John Alexander, who impressed veteran actress Linda Purl with his discipline and work ethic.
“You know, you come across someone like that and you just want to be a part of anything that they’re doing and help them in any way that you can,” said Purl.
Purl, whose acting career includes roles in Matlock, Happy Days, Mighty Joe Young and Beacon Hill, to name a few, was in attendance for the premiere on Saturday and spent some time in Geary county.
“I’ve had dinner two nights in a row at Bella’s…[and it’s] just fantastic food; it’s just been lovely [visiting]…I took a long walk through a beautiful neighborhood, with beautiful trees and lovely homes…I’ve already come back twice, this is my second trip here – so yes, I’d love to come back to the heartland,” said Purl.
In addition to the Hollywood element at Saturday night’s premiere, there were some local stars who basked in the spotlight – even if it was for just a moment.
“Once the movie got started, I think the reason everybody knows me is I talk to everyone, we had fun,” said Jim Sands, City Commissioner.
Sands had a limited role as an extra, but still was thankful for the opportunity.
“We had a really good time, I learned a lot about film production; this was a great experience,” said Sands.
Junction City High School teacher, and cross country coach Stacy Cooke also enjoyed his moment in the spotlight.
“I just had a good time being on the set and being around those actors; I never imagined being able to do something like that, it was just really interesting…something to put on my resume, ” said Cooke.
And it was something to put on the county’s resume as well – a film partially shot in Geary county, with local actors and a premiere event in Junction City.
“Doing this like this adds to [the] quality of life; when people come to town and they look around and say what’s there to do here, this is one of those things that we can actually say we had the premiere for a film that was done right here in Kansas and there could be many more coming,” said Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce CEO Dennis Beson. “I think it’s just one of those things that now goes in the toolbox, it’s another thing we’ve done here.”
Bender – the true story of America’s first serial killing family has an encore screening on Sunday, October 9th at 2:00 pm at the C. L. Hoover Opera House located at 135 w. 7th Street in Junction City.