Written by Maggie Samples // Photo provided by Jacob Osborn
“Murder in the Dark,” a film created by mostly Harding students and Searcy locals, premiered last month. The production showed at the Rialto Theater Oct. 27 and 28.
The movie follows a group of high school friends about to part ways after graduating as they play one last game of Murder in the Dark that takes a terrifying turn.
Director Jacob Osborn said because he was a one-man crew, the filming process was long, and shooting the movie took a lot of effort.
“There were days on set where I never really sat down because I was either filming something or pacing while I tried to figure out what to do next,” Osborn said.
Osborn said working with the cast was a highlight of the filming process.
“I stand by the fact that everyone in the film was cast perfectly and they were all amazing to work with,” Osborn said. “If I had to work with other talent for the movie, I’m not sure it would have gotten finished in the time frame it did, and I definitely would not have enjoyed the process as much as I did.”
Osborn and Jordan Benight, who also acted in the film, wrote the script. Osborn also filmed, edited, did makeup and designed costumes for the film. He said the experience showed him why big film sets fill those roles with teams of people.
“I’m very proud of [the movie],” Osborn said. “It’s not without its flaws, but for a one-man crew and a cast of college kids who have other responsibilities, we all did amazing. I couldn’t have asked for a more dedicated cast.”
Benight said the cast and crew worked well together.
“Most of us were friends before or knew each other at the very least, but there were some people that were new and they fit right in straight away,” Benight said.
Benight said he is proud of the final product and believes that Osborn is a talented director with a bright future.
“The premiere was electric, and I felt like everyone really enjoyed the movie,” Benight said. “[There were] lots of laughs and some scares. I’m excited to make more after seeing what Jacob is capable of.”
Actor Nathan Biff said he enjoyed the filming process and is excited to see Osborn’s upcoming projects.
“The environment was very relaxed, and the cast was very easygoing,” Biff said. “We all got along really well. I think it’s fair to say we all became friends in the process.”
Other projects by Osborn can be found on the Instagram account @osborn_films and on YouTube at Osborn Films.
