Writer  /  Leia Barker

kassel-6 The movie “Kassel” explores the internal struggle of a Germany soldier returning to his home at the end of WWII. The main character was the pillar of his community, and at the same time, he lost everything including his family.

The film was produced and directed by Greenwood resident Earl Crabtree II. Crabtree wrote the screenplay, which was inspired by his father, an Army veteran, who was stationed in Germany for over a decade during the 1970s. “He never disclosed what he was doing in the military. I only know he flew helicopters and built them,” shares Crabtree.

This is a strong debut for the young Crabtree. Growing up, Crabtree had an affinity for Germany culture as his father spoke the language to Earl as a child. “I love the German culture and have always been fascinated with history,” says Crabtree. “In high school history class, I was astonished to learn how terrible the WWII era was.”

“I wanted to show a more human side of the conflict by depicting someone who was a soldier because they had to be, but not a member of the Nazi party,” shares Crabtree.

“The actors and crew who were attracted to this project did so based upon Earl’s passion for this production,” shares Daria Barwinska, a friend who is assisting with marketing efforts. “The people who came together to support the creation of this film are quite extraordinary.”

Hauke Bahr lives in Bloomington and is the lead actor portraying Friedrich. Co-star Dalton Edington plays Friedrich’s butler. The cast also includes Rachel Everhart, Kassy Collins and Lec Zorn. Makeup and hair was done by Jack Von Liria, whose credits include the third and fourth “Transformers” films.

“Christopher Wellington was instrumental. In addition to being our cameraman, he helped me with rewrites and instrumental with the scenes,” shares Crabtree. “Bobby Darko’s film company, Innovative Illusionz, also helped tremendously by working with drones, steady cams and extra lighting.”

Filming of the movie took place across the state of Indiana, including Thorn Haven Manor in New Castle. Thorn Haven Manor has been featured on “Ghost Hunters” as it was the home of a Civil War General. “The home has quite a history, aside from it dating back to the Civil War era. A murder took place there during the 1800s,” says Crabtree.

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The other main location for shooting the film was in Cambridge City at The Meredith House, another Civil War era home. Unlike Thorn Haven, The Meredith House is well kept. Mr. Meredith was friends with Abraham Lincoln. Along the Whitewater River bank in Cambridge City in a city park, there is a photo of a train, The Meredith House and Lincoln.

“The locations we selected have stories themselves and yet look like 1945 Germany with the way we shot the scenes,” says Crabtree. “We hope the audience will be thrilled with the end result.”

For more information, please visit NWPFilmsS.com. Blue Ray now available!

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