LOCAL AUTHOR SIGNS FILM AGREEMENT

  

A major film project is being launched to tell the story of Texas’ early developmental years focusing on Brenham, Giddings, and the important men who put both cities on the map. Film producer Roy Burger recently signed an agreement with Washington County author Sharon Brass, giving Burger exclusive rights to produce a film based on Brass’ book, The Burning of Brenham and her additional research and writings on the Giddings family of Texas.

Movie signing small
Signing a motion picture contract. Seated: Sharon Brass, author and Roy Burger, producer. Standing: Jennifer Eckermann, Main Street Brenham manager; Page Michel, president/CEO of Washington County Chamber of Commerce; Denice Harlan, executive director of Giddings Chamber of Commerce.

“At this early stage, we’re not sure what form this project will take,” said Burger. “This story could be told as a historical documentary, but it has enough exciting material to make a motion picture or a TV mini-series. To test the waters, we may start with a TV pilot. These decisions will be made with the director and investors as we begin planning.”

“The Burning of Brenham is only a small part of the action-packed story,” said Brass. “There were six Giddings brothers who came to Texas from Pennsylvania, and they faced danger almost every day on this remote frontier. The well-known dynasty (at the time) was a major factor in the history of Texas and the development of U.S. transportation and communications. We have details that shed new light on famous historical events, and fun stories about famous political and military figures.”

“We’re pleased that our history will be told in film format,” said Jennifer Eckermann, manager of Main Street Brenham. “The research for this project started back in 2010, when I asked Sharon to find details on the historical cisterns under Brenham streets. This led her to the Giddings brothers and their contributions to our immediate region. At the time, we had no idea how much bigger, and richer, the story really is.”

“The Giddings Chamber of Commerce receives frequent visitors who want to learn about the Giddings family and their importance to history,” said Denice Harlan, Executive Director of the Chamber. “The more I tell people of the Giddings, the more excited they become to find out more! So this film is long overdue, and we’re eager to see the project finished.”

“Sharon and Jennifer first contacted me to inquire about making a small historical documentary for local audiences and tourists”, said Burger. “At the time, I wasn't very interested. But we met and they showed me what they had.  I couldn't believe it.  Sharon’s research has produced so many good stories that have not been told.”

According to Burger, the project has drawn the attention of motion picture professionals who are considering participation. During this early stage, he will welcome ideas and offers from local film professionals and investors who want to be part of the project.

Most likely, much of the film will be shot in Washington and Lee Counties. There will be opportunities for local residents to join the cast or crew - announcements will be made about how to participate. Studio work will be done in the Austin area.

“Since I grew up in this area, I am driven to help tell this great story,” said Burger who is a current resident of Lee County. “The project will take a tremendous amount of effort, but it will pay-off for our local communities. We will get this done with the help of our great Texas movie crews, and with the cooperation of Washington and Lee County citizens.”

Burger’s career in the motion picture industry began 33 years ago. Having grown up on a dairy farm in western Austin County, he became a wrangler and livestock coordinator in his earliest film work. Before long he was performing stunts, acting and managing transportation.  He spent the past 10 years in various roles such as producer, second unit director, transportation manager, livestock coordinator, stuntman, stunt coordinator and actor.

In total, Burger has helped to make 114 feature films, many of which won Oscars for their actors and/or other contributors. He has also worked on 29 television commercials, eight Movies of the Week, seven television series and one HBO movie. His work is diverse including westerns, science fiction, action/adventure, love stories, inspirational and historical documentaries. He has managed budgets from $650,000 on small projects, to over $400,000,000 on major films.

For more information: 512-294-0231 or 979-451-1459.

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One Comment

  1. Count me in on a spot in this movie! Never done acting but I’m willing to give it a shot!

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