Cornwall has starring role in new film by Simmons

CORNWALL — Filming here wrapped June 27, with the exception of a breakfast scene at the Wandering Moose shot June 29, on an independent film by resident Laurie Simmons. This is her third film and the first that is feature length.

She and her sculptor husband, Carroll Dunham, bought the former Marvelwood School on the corner of Pine and Jewell streets in 2008. Simmons plans to do all of her work here and use local talent. 

“When I first saw this house and town, both so rich in history, I knew this was where I would be inspired. I even planted a large garden, knowing I would use it for filming,” she said.

Shooting for the low-budget piece, written by Simmons, includes Cornwall resident Bob Clohessy in the starring role and lots of people with acting, technical and service skills, including catering. One local baker got to add “movie cakes,” used in the film, to her resumé. Cast and crew from out of the area stay at local inns or at homes rented in the village. 

Two days of shooting in New York City remained. Simmons will take the summer to review and edit footage and allow it to lead her to its destiny. Whatever the final product, it will have been an exercise in supporting the local economy.

For her past work, Simmons said she has hired friends and locals, such as Salisbury resident Meryl Streep (“Music of Regret,” 2006).

Simmons began intermittent filming on this piece two years ago. Clohessy plays an actor taking time off to muse about his art and life, while working as a landscaper. The character is based on lots of small-town artists Simmons knows.

Simmons is also an artist and photographer, who brings emotion and sensitivity to her work. 

The last hours of filming were done overnight June 19 and 20, after a tough decision to proceed. Neighbor Dan Gracey had been found deceased in his home earlier that day. 

“We were devastated by the news,” Simmons said, with tears in her eyes. “We didn’t want to be disrespectful to the family.”

But a full crew was set to roll, her house would block the scenes set in her backyard and they were poised to go on a break for the next two days.