By Douglas V. Gibbs
Last night I had the extreme pleasure of attending a pre-release showing of "Doonby." The film is slated to hit theaters in Fall 2011, but for our fortunate group of Murrieta-Temecula Republican Assembly members, we not only got to view this fantastic film, but meet with three of the actors.
I received a phone call from my good friend, Bob, who is also the president of the MTRA, a few days ago. He asked, "Doug, are you planning on attending the MTRA meeting this Friday Night?"
"Perhaps," I replied. "I might have a meeting with some folks that wish to assist me with my public speaking and Constitution classes."
"You really need to be there, Friday," he said. "A powerful pro-life film will be showing, and three of the actors from the movie will be present."
I changed my schedule and made sure I made it to the screening, and I am so happy I did.
The film opened with Sam Doonby (John Schneider) stepping off of a Greyhound bus in a rural area. He's a drifter, from nowhere in particular, seeking to spend a little time in the small town of Smithville, Texas. The mysterious man lands a bar tending job at Leroy's Country Blues bar, and his skills behind the bar leads to the place growing in popularity. As the crowds increase in size in the bar, Doonby one night picks up a guitar, and his musical talents immediately make him a small-town star, landing him an opportunity to be the opening act at a large venue. His talents, charisma, and charm also gains the attention of the local spoiled brat, daughter of the very successful Smithville doctor, and quite beautiful, Laura Reaper.
Her father, Dr. Cyrus Reaper, is not too sure about his daughter's relationship with this no-good drifter, but a relationship begins to develop anyway. Sam Doonby is like an angel from Heaven, and the troubled Laura can't help but melt whenever Doonby is around.
Events in town also benefit from Doonby's presence. It seems like he is always in the right place at the right time. His awareness, and powers of observation, enables Doonby to assist in preventing disasters, and saving lives. His knack for saving the town from these horrific events, however, also begins to lead folks to wonder about Doonby's presence. Suspicions lead the townspeople to question Sam's sudden appearance, and motives. Laura's jealousy of the barmaid that works with Doonby also rises, making Laura doubt the man she has come to love.
Then, as suddenly as he appeared, Doonby vanishes to leave the town wondering if there was more to Sam Doonby than they had truly realized. And in the wake of his disappearance painful revelations expose themselves, engaging the audience in a dramatic realization that leaves the viewers simply saying to themselves, "Wow, what a powerful film."
The thought-provoking film is a journey through a single life, examining the significance of that life, while also exploring the disastrous consequences should that life not be. When Doonby comes face to face with the key to his past, it is the audience that must come to grips with the horrifying truth.
The story told will have a profound impact upon those that view this film. . . for the rest of their lives.
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The lead character, Sam Doonby, is played by veteran actor John Schneider (Bo Duke, Dukes of Hazzard television series; Jonathan Kent on Smallville, a 2001 television adaptation of Superman; and a number of smaller roles as well as a successful career as a Country and Western singer). He is joined by a list of both veteran actors, and newcomers, including Jenn Gotzon as Laura Reaper, Ernie Hudson as Leroy, Robert Davi as Sheriff Woodley, Jennifer O'Neill as Barbara Ann Reaper, Joe Estevez as Dr. Cyrus Reaper, Will Wallace as Tony, and Erin Way as Lucy Mae Doonby.
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After the film I had the opportunity to speak with the three actors in attendance, Jenn Gotzon, Will Wallace, and Erin Way. I spoke mostly with Jenn, and her enthusiasm about the film was incredible. Jenn hoped her character's growth was apparent in the film (and it is) and she felt that this film serves as a fantastic message for the preservation of life. Interestingly enough, we have a couple mutual friends in the industry. Ms. Gotzon, after we discussed my small, independent streaming radio program, agreed to come on in the near future. I hope that along with Jenn, other members of the cast will join us when we air that episode. Keep visiting Political Pistachio for news of when that program will take place.
When our time in the meeting place expired, we all congregated at a place to eat, and the discussions continued. The enthusiasm by all three actors over this project was encouraging, because the message is so powerful, and for it to have such enthusiastic ambassadors behind it is truly a Godsend. The trio entertained us with their adventures regarding making the movie, and I had the wonderful opportunity to share with them what I am doing regarding educating people on the original intent of the Founding Fathers in regards to the U.S. Constitution, as well as my testimony about when I died in 1985, and then by God's Grace was miraculously saved.
The funny thing is, despite my short foray into acting in 1996, I am normally not a big fan of actors. There are very few thespians that I hold in high regard. I have this thing about people who regard themselves as better than others, or consider themselves as some part of an elite group. Actors are notorious for placing themselves on pedestals, and sticking their chests out simply because they are basically good at pretending in front of a camera, or on stage. Don't get me wrong. I fully understand the work and talent that goes into that industry. I've been around the industry enough to know the hard work these people put into their craft (or "art", depending on who you ask). But that does not make them any better than anybody else. It simply means they are good at what they do.
This group of actors I spent time with last night were not your normal crop of actors. These three folks were engaging, humble, and real. I felt the better person for having the opportunity to spend time with these folks, and I hope that we are more than mere acquaintances. I would like for in the future to cross paths with these folks again, and for the mutual friendship to still be in force.
When "Doonby" opens in the Fall, because it is an independent film that relies heavily on "word of mouth," please go and see it, and if you like the film recommend it to as many people as you can.
Oh, and when you go, take someone that is pro-abortion with you. This film may change their heart.
-- Political Pistachio Conservative News and Commentary
