For my feature length directorial debut, I am trying to surround myself with people that I know and trust.  So the same M.O. went for the lead role of Thomas in The Shelter. I needed an actor that I knew as a person on some level (I’ve known Mike since 2006 or so, my bud Eric Red introduced us), had the chops to do the role justice and who would be an ally on set.

Michael Paré was the first name on my list; in fact, I had him in mind when I wrote the script.  He’s my kind of guy; straightforward, committed, intelligent and humble. He is also very talented. And in terms of The Shelter, he’s perfect for the role on every level. So yes, I am very happy that Mike responded to the script/the role and that he’s doing it

Here’s what Mike had to say about the script:

“I read John Fallon’s script “The Shelter” and it tells a great and painful tragedy. Not about global disaster or war or economic collapse but of the individual human heart. The human heart and soul is what all art seeks to unravel. Guilt, regret and shame kill the heart and soul. When our lower animal nature dominates our character our soul is lost.”

Yeah,  he got it. Am in the process of assembling my team with Producer Donny Broussard. More news on the project when I have some. I smell location scouting in the near future.

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