Arts & Entertainment
Jonathan L. Bowen’s “The Comic Shop” wraps filming in Las Vegas
Jonathan L. Bowen's "The Comic Shop" tells story of redemption for kindred spirits who share a passion for comics.
Whether people like comic books, comic book movies, or comic book characters, we all share a deep passion for tales of heroism that make the world a better place. That’s probably why comic book store Mike (played by Jesse Metcalfe of “Desperate Housewives”) and new-kid-in-town Brandon (newcomer Micah Giovanni) take such a liking to each other. As Mike faces difficult choices about keeping his store open and Brandon navigates a contentious relationship with his own father, these two new friends find ways to let their passion for comic books and comic art reveal unexpected paths forward.
From writer/director Jonathan L. Bowen, “The Comic Shop” co-stars Tristan Mays (“MacGyver”) as Mike’s loyal employee Alex, who may have to take a job at a rival store when her hours get cut; Trevor Einhorn (“The Magicians,” “Mad Men”) as the spoiled and scheming rival store owner; and with cameos from Eric Roberts and Scott “Carrot Top” Thompson.
Featuring a stunningly poignant performance from Metcalfe as Mike’s fortune turns from bad to worse, Bowen’s story frames the emotional journey of the characters against the backdrop of their love for indie comics and the unique community of creators and fans who often struggle to find a place in a market dominated by Marvel and DC. The underdog Mike has lost some of his fight, and by helping protégé Brandon with finding a way to connect at home, the decisions about how to move forward reveal themselves one small heroic moment at a time.
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Shot on location in Las Vegas, “The Comic Shop” is a slice-of-life love letter to comic fans that general audiences will easily relate to. We’ve all drawn inspiration from the larger-than-life heroes that are born on ink and paper and blossomed in our imagination, but “The Comic Shop” reminds us that the best sources of inspiration are those around us who are willing to risk it all to help us find our way.
The film will be distributed by Quiver later this year. Bowen's perseverance in turning his lifelong passion for film into a successful career is an inspiring one, further proof of the film's message that achieving your goals might be an unpredictable path, but it's worth it.
