Ben Smallbone is revolutionizing the post-apocalyptic genre with his latest film, Homestead, featuring both a gripping narrative and a talented cast led by Dawn Olivieri. Smallbone, recognized for his significant contributions to faith-based films and music videos for the duo For King & Country, previously directed the thriller Priceless and the documentary Johnny Cash: The Redemption of an American Icon. Olivieri has built her career through pivotal roles, including her performances in Heroes and House of Lies, followed by her notable appearances in Taylor Sheridan’s Yellowstone series.
In Homestead, Smallbone adapts the novel Black Autumn, which tells a harrowing tale set against the backdrop of nuclear devastation in the United States. As chaos reigns and survivors fight to secure resources and safety, Olivieri portrays Jenna Ross, whose character navigates the complexities of survival alongside her husband, played by Neal McDonough. Together, they manage a vast estate that serves as a refuge for others seeking safety, forcing them to confront moral dilemmas and emotional challenges as their community grows.
The film boasts a dynamic ensemble cast, including former Yellowstone star McDonough, Bailey Chase from Longmire, Kearran Giovanni from Walker, and Susan Misner from Jack Ryan, among others. Co-written by Jason Ross, along with Phillip Abraham and Leah Bateman, Homestead has been well-received. With a 73% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and nearly $13 million in box office earnings, it is garnering attention from audiences and critics alike.
In a recent interview with ScreenRant, Smallbone and Olivieri delved into the creative journey of Homestead. They shared insights into how smaller productions have inspired a more innovative approach and discussed Olivieri’s excitement to join another multimedia franchise, describing her transition from Yellowstone to this new role as akin to experiencing a “glitch in the matrix.”
Homestead Is Not Your Typical Post-Apocalyptic Thriller
“…I didn’t want to do that kind of film.”
ScreenRant: It’s a pleasure to discuss Homestead with you both. Ben, what drew you to adapt this book for the screen?
Ben Smallbone: I’ve long been captivated by post-apocalyptic narratives since my teenage years in the ‘90s, during which time films like Left Behind emerged. While they didn’t resonate with me in terms of quality, they motivated me. I aspired to create films of this genre but with a fresh and compelling approach. Fast forward two decades, and I connected with showrunners Ben Kasica and Jason Ross, who invited me to adapt Black Autumn into a film and series. Initially, I hesitated because I didn’t want to create another ’90s-style faith-based post-apocalyptic film, and I was thrilled to pivot into this new direction.
Dawn Olivieri: That sounds like a perfect tagline—This Ain’t Your ’90s Post-Apocalypse! [Laughs]
Olivieri Was Sold On Homestead For 1 Key Reason
“You caught some big fish with it.”
Dawn, your involvement signifies more than just a role in a movie; you’re stepping into a broader multimedia franchise. What was your initial reaction?
Dawn Olivieri: The first teaser I saw from the project was captivating, particularly the opening scene with the glass of water before the bomb detonates. I immediately thought, “Who wouldn’t want to watch a film like this?”The concept resonates with people universally, igniting curiosity about how they would react in a similar situation. This film explores that question further, turning the concept of survival into an engaging narrative that challenges traditional storytelling. This isn’t your typical post-apocalyptic portrayal; it invites deeper insights.
Ben, that explosion serves as an intense lead-in to the film. Can you share how you tackled its production with visual effects and lighting?
Ben Smallbone: Absolutely. We created a proof of concept eight months prior to shooting to help secure funding through crowdfunding via Angel Studios. I not only directed but also handled the visual effects, and the outcome was so successful that we included it in the final film. We shot the proof of concept in LA before moving the main production to Utah.
Jumping From Yellowstone To Homestead Was Like “A Matrix Glitch”For Olivieri
“…I had to reach down and access the goodness in me.”
Dawn, Jenna is positioned between her inclination to support others and protect her family. What is your process for balancing these characteristics in your performance?
Dawn Olivieri: It’s amusing because the dualities I explore personally echo my life experiences. I rescue horses as a side passion, and this echoes through Jenna’s character. In our current world, the ‘apocalypse’ manifests in daily choices. Regardless of obvious crises, we can choose to focus on positivity. Jenna embodies this resilience, projecting hope even amid darkness, which is crucial for engaging storytelling.
Her journey indeed paves the way for emotionally impactful moments throughout the film.
Dawn Olivieri: Yes! Just wait for the series—it gets even more exciting!
Given your experience on Yellowstone, did you find any parallels between protecting the expansive land in both stories?
Dawn Olivieri: Absolutely! Transitioning from the villainous role in Yellowstone to Jenna in Homestead felt like a ‘Matrix glitch.’ Each character required a different mental approach—Jenna embodies goodness while the other leans towards darker ambitions. These contrasting roles are symbiotically linked, emphasizing the complexities of character development and filmmaking.
About Homestead
When a nuclear bomb detonates in Los Angeles, society plummets into chaos. Ex-Green Beret Jeff Eriksson and his family retreat to The Homestead, an unconventional prepper’s sanctuary amidst the mountains. As the looming threats of violence and societal collapse draw nearer, the occupants must confront the fundamental question: How long can they withstand the potential horrors of human nature and violence at their doorstep?
Stay tuned for more interviews related to Homestead featuring Bailey Chase and Jesse Hutch!
Homestead is currently screening in theaters, and the first three episodes of its sequel series are available to stream on Angel Studios’ website and app.
Source: ScreenRant Plus
Related Articles:
10 Underrated Movies of 2024 That Are a Must-See
18:53
Understanding Minicircle: Bryan Johnson’s Gene Therapy Company in Honduras Featured in Netflix’s Don’t Die
18:43
Oscar-Winning Director Chooses Wicked as Best Movie of 2024
18:42
Leave a Reply