Utah welcomes back actor Sean Astin – Joins cast of the Freemason, Film offering peek into Masonry

SALT LAKE CITY - April 9, 2013 - PRLog -- Astin, who has appeared in over 70 film and TV projects including The Goonies, Memphis Belle, Rudy, and the television series 24, is best known for his iconic role as Samwise ‘Sam’ Gamgee in the hugely successful Lord of the Rings Trilogy.

Astin takes on the lead role of detective Leon Weed, who is investigating a ritualistic killing of an elderly Mason. The Freemason marks Astin’s second return to Utah since appearing in the locally-produced film, Forever Strong (2008).

Executive Producer Joseph James, himself a Master Mason, hopes to satisfy the public’s insatiable appetite for the craft’s esoteric realms by allowing outsiders a glimpse into some of the secret society’s mysterious rituals. James explains that “The Freemason is the first film of its kind to highlight actual initiation practices,” including a ritual experience that will surely thrill both Masons and non-Masons alike!

The coveted Director’s chair has been given to award-winning Iranian-director Sohrab Mirmontazeri who returns for his second feature in the state. “Utah is among the world’s few great meccas for filmmaking,” Mirmontazeri says.

Thanks in large part to the ongoing success of the annual Sundance Film Festival, and continuing support from the Governor’s Office of the Utah Film Commission’s current Tax Incentive Program, Utah is quickly becoming a filmmaking mecca as a major, outside-of-Hollywood player in providing both capable talent and professional crew. James explains that the scenery, accommodations, and filmmaking friendliness of the state will keep him making movies here for a long time.

For more information, press only:
Melissa Hays
503-998-0452
Press@TheFreemasonMovie.com
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