Starring Bill Oberst, Jr. and Michael Pare', Produced by Delirium Films and Distributed by Cinedigm
Painkiller, a captivating new thriller by filmmaker Mark Savage (Purgatory Road, Stressed to Kill), starring Bill Oberst, Jr. and Michael Pare' hits On Demand, Digital and DVD May 4th, 2021.
After losing his daughter to an opioid overdose, a broken father (Oberst) takes on the dual role of radio-host and masked vigilante in a crusade to destroy the white-collar criminals and big pharma behind the epidemic.
Savage reveals why this film was so important to make… "After my writing partner Tom's (Parnell) twenty-one year old son died of complications resulting from opioid use, we felt compelled to explore this serious social problem within the framework of a thriller."
Savage is the creative force behind Painkiller, directing, producing and writing the script with Parnell, who Executive Produces. Parnell renews his role as "Doc" from the team's previous hit film, "Stressed to Kill" starring Armand Assante and Oberst. Guided by Savage, Parnell turns in yet another strong performance some critics say is reminiscent of Paul Mazursky. The film's top-notch supporting cast includes Pacey Liz Walker (Rosa Parks Story) and Alexander Penneke (Blacklist).
All elements in Painkiller clearly reflect the Savage style, including a masterful pace, layers of suspenseful drama, and utilizing locations as character. The lake-infested area of Lutz, Florida is Savage's choice to create Painkiller's haunting and somber undertone.
An award winning in-demand Director and storyteller, Savage seamlessly crosses all genres; working in Film, Television, Documentaries and the Ad-World. Painkiller is yet another example of the talented Director's use of striking contrasts which are the hallmark of his distinctive style.
Upcoming projects for Savage include a directing gig, "Bring Him Back Dead," an action thriller from producers Mark L. Lester (Titan Global) and Jeff Miller (Millman Productions). In addition, producers Ojan Missaghi and David Wachs of Toric Films have optioned "Advocate," a screenplay by Savage and Parnell that Savage is also slated to direct. And a sequel to Painkiller is already in the works!
Painkiller is Produced by Delirium Films and distributed by Cinedigm.
Reviews
- "The directing really stands out… the action exciting, the story interesting, and the score is beyond stellar." – Film Threat (full review)
- "Death Wish meets the opioid crisis in this tense and exciting thriller!" – World Film Geek (full review)
- "I have been waiting with bated breath for news this film would finally be released." "…a gripping, heartbreaking story." – PopHorror (Full review)
2024 AICP Awards Tour Concludes with Stops in Dallas and Chicago
The 2024 AICP Awards Tour concludes with stops in Dallas and Chicago this month as it wraps up its tour of cities across the U.S. The National Tour brought presentations, panels and screenings to marketers, advertising agencies, production and post production companies. The AICP Awards will be in Dallas on Thursday, November 14th, at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, followed by the Chicago event, set for Thursday, November 21st at The Old Post Office. Tickets are available now for both events at www.aicp.com. In Dallas, the program kicks off at 6:45 pm with a happy hour, followed by the screening and panel discussion at 7:30. The evening ends with a networking reception from 8:30 to 11:30. The Perot Museum of Nature and Science is located at 2201 N. Field Street in Dallas. Appearing in Dallas will be Abe Garcia, Chief Creative Officer, Dieste; Julia Melle, Director of Brand and Content, Southwest Airlines; and Isaac Pagán Muñoz, VP, Executive Creative Director of PepsiCo Foods. The panel will review selected winners from the suite of the AICP Awards programs, offering insights into what made them rise to the top of their respective categories and share their viewpoints on key trends in the industry. The Chicago stop starts at 6:00pm with a happy hour, followed by the presentation and screening at 7:00pm. A reception caps the event, starting at 8:00pm and concluding at 11:30pm. The Old Post Office is located at 433 W Van Buren Street in Chicago. The panel there will feature 2024 AICP Awards Curators and Winners from the marketer, agency, production and post production sectors who’ll highlight this year’s winners. The conversation will include a discussion about the winning work, including insights... Read More