Jess Matney playing Neil "Skinny" Webb on the set of the "Eastern Hunter".
I had the pleasure last week to Assist Camera for Ray Flynn, (Ghost Dog, 30 Rock) and Nick Hall, (Decimation) shooting a teaser for an upcoming feature from Legacy Pictures called "Eastern Hunter" aboard an 85' fishing vessel of the same name anchored near Port Madison, Wa. The weather held all week and let loose a perfectly timed monsoon for the confrontation scene shown above.
We shot scenes aboard the Eastern Hunter, a helicopter, the tender "Seacliff" and a chase boat using a Red Epic with Lomo anamorphic lens package. Flynn, being a New Yorker and a seasoned pro, was a straight-shooter and was great to learn from. He had a Yul Brynner/David Carradine quiet toughness. He always kept cool, yet never distant and was quick to share a quip or a story. Having worked with Hall before on long projects I knew Nick would be solidly focused but manage courtesy to everyone regardless of how little sleep he had. That always amazes me about him. That and the food his wife, Jenna provided for us. It was delightful.
I loved the collision of worlds for me on this project. I've spent a good deal of time in yachting and recreational scuba diving in my past, and my present and future are dedicated to production. I also consider Nick and his extended family good friends. It was hard work, but I loved it because being on-set with pros and on the water with friends felt like being home.
Director Wade Jackson of Legacy Pictures with, (left to right), cast members Sam Quartin & Jess Matney, Camera Dept. Ray Flynn & Nick Hall and cast member Isaac Halderman, blocking and rehearsing for "Eastern Hunter".
Ray Flynn and Nick Hall aboard the Seacliff, the boat we used to tender to the "Eastern Hunter".
The view from Scott Waters in the Sound Dept looking out to a constantly moving AD Marco Scaringi. Ray Flynn speaking with Bob Zipp, the Eastern Hunter's Chief Engineer. Nick and Wade discussing specifics.
Wade Jackson, Ray Flynn and Nick Hall. Captain, Engineer and First Mate.
Cinematographer Ray Flynn and Cinematographer/Producer Nick Hall