Notice anything different around town? This week, a camera crew has been all over Madison filming scenes for the upcoming movie, Prayer Never Fails; the story of a basketball coach who is fired for praying with a student. This action is the catalyst for a series of events which will change the lives of everyone involved. Wes Miller, the director of the film, said the movie is designed to reach anyone who has goals. “Those goals face obstacles, and people look for a way to handle those obstacles,” said Miller. “For me personally, prayer has been a major way that I have overcome the obstacles that have been laid in front of me. I think it is an inspiring message to encourage all to keep going despite what is trying to stop you.” Better yet, Miller has chosen to film this inspiring story in Madison. He fell in love with Madison after visiting the area, stating town is the perfect setting.
The film's leading man is Nick Lashaway, known for his roles in The X-Files, The Forty Year Old Virgin and The Last Song, opposite Miley Cyrus, portraying the leader of a gang of thugs who steal money from beach carnival crowds through fire juggling performances. “They contacted me, I looked at the script and I liked it,” said Lashaway, on joining the cast of Prayer Never Fails. “I think people will be able to relate to it. It’s about struggle and how you go through that and finding a way through great struggle by keeping the faith. I think that’s something everyone can relate to.” Also starring in the film is Lorenzo Lamas, known for playing Lance Cumson on the 1980s soap opera, Falcon Crest, Reno Raines on the 1990s crime drama, Renegade, and Hector Ramirez on the daytime soap opera The Bold and the Beautiful. The movie is also featuring many Madison residents. Ted Ensminger plays the principal who fires the coach because he was praying with a student. “It’s an honest to life drama and it’s a huge message to those who are willing to receive it. I’m hoping this proves to be something that’s important to a lot of people and if we can do that, it’s a winner.” On filming in Madison, Ensminger added, “For all of my travels, I can think of no place more perfect. Madison fits the script in many ways including our being a faith-based community. Having active performing theatrical troupes in the Rural Area Theater and at North Florida Community College also helped. But I believe that the biggest reason Madison was chosen is because we pray. And we pray a lot. It will be interesting to see if other production crews follow.”
Jessica Webb, local realtor, plays the wife of Lorenzo Lamas's character, who is an abusive husband. She has played a large role in assisting the film crew throughout the whole process. She remarks the experience has been awesome. Dawn Renner, a Madison County resident, has a role as a teacher in the film. She said her son has a role in the movie as a teenager at the park. “I think this is a fun experience,” said Renner. Harriet Ross, a Hamilton County resident, has a teacher role as well. “I think it is awesome,” Ross said. “I’m really excited for it coming to the community and looking forward to being a part of it, especially it being a faith-based film. I’m hoping the message will be well received.” Tammy Roberson, a Madison County resident, said she is nervous and happy at the same time. “This movie will be something good for Madison,” said Roberson. “A lot of people look over Madison and we have a lot of history here. I feel like a star already.”
The crew couldn't be happier with the film's progress. Ana Hogan, the first assistant director, said she thinks everything is going really well with the film. “I think we all really enjoy being in Madison and being embraced by the community, which makes our job a lot easier,” said Hogan. “The crew is really great and really close. We have a really good cast, I’m having fun and it’s a good project.” Leonard Ohaedosin, is a production partner with Miller and producing the film. “The movie is going to go far.; we already have video on demand, DVD and are waiting to see if we’re going to do a full theatrical release and we’ll know that a little later this year,” said Ohaedosin. The crew has filmed at the Madison County Courthouse, Madison County Central School and different locations around the city, including Gunslingers Pawn and Gun. Filming will end August 3. Keep an eye out because, Prayer Never Fails, is expected to be released as soon as January 2016.
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1.Photo Submitted. Director Wes Miller (left) prepares for the first shoot of the movie Prayer Never Fails with Lorenzo Lamas (right). Day one went exceptionally well.
2. Greene Publishing, Inc. Photo By Savannah Reams, July 14, 2015. Actor, Nick Lashaway, who plays the main character in Prayer Never Fails, exits Gunslingers Pawn and Gun on S.R. 53 during a scene where he sells his Ducati motorcycle for an old pick up truck. Pictured, from left to right, are: Nick Lashaway and Director Wes Miller.
3. Greene Publishing, Inc. Photo By Shikari Hamm, July 15, 2015 Prayer Never Fails was filmed at Madison County Central School on Wednesday, July 15. Local castmembers pose with the lead, Nick Lashaway. Pictured, from left to right, are: Tammy Roberson, Nick Lashaway, Harriet Ross, Jessica Webb and Dawn Renner.