Jefferson Avenue home becomes a film set. Photo by Brian Frey EAST POINT - Filming for the movie Prisoners closed a main roadway through the city, filmed in local homes and gave a resident the chance to say thanks to a leading man for taking on a controversial role.
Shutting Down Cleveland Avenue
Atlanta Medical Center, South Campus, was the backdrop to the filming of this ?. Police shut Cleveland Avenue for much of this past week. Cars and other traffic was diverted through the neighborhood, causing some walkers to be concerned about speeding cars.
There was even a Christmas/holiday scene, where a tall pine near the intersection with Jefferson Terrace was circled with white lights to make it look like the holidays.
Extra shooting In local homes
An 11th hour request to shoot in local homes had residents to open their houses to cast and crew. Shooting was done at homes on Jefferson Terrace and on Jefferson Avenue.
Said Jeannine Henderson, of Jefferson Terrace:
They filmed in my basement, I had no idea this was going to happen, total chance.
I made cupcakes for the crew and Hugh Jackman and Maria Bello. I made them Coca-Cola cupcakes one day and Red Velvet with Pecan Brittle the next day.
It was an unforgettable experience.
A pastor thanks Jake Gyllenhaal
Pastor Paul Graetz and spouse Robert Mixon opened their home to film crew, including Jake Gyllenhaal.
Pastor Graetz posted on Facebook about an encounter he had with the actor:
After the filming of the movie Prisoners wrapped up in our living room yesterday, the best moment for me was to personally thank actor Jake Gyllenhaal. I wanted to say thank you as a Pastor... on behalf of all the gay and lesbians of the world for being willing to make the film, "Brokeback Mountain." Many actors would have been hesitant to take on a role like that. I thanked him for telling a story of love that is everyone's story who have been oppressed by inequality thinking or struggled with self acceptance. I wanted him to how much I appreciated his stand and how much the kind of Christian Church I represent appreciated it as well. So again, Thank you, Jake for your role in creating greater awareness and contributing to the higher consciousness of equality for all. We all thank you.
He also said, that he took the role without hesitation knowing that it was ground breaking and would have an impact. He was delighted to hear that it was received so well by many.
Pastor Paul Graetz, left, and husband Robert Mixon. Photo by Brian Frey
