Film

A CINEMATIC GETAWAY: Micon Cinemas to Screen Short Film ‘The Getaway’

E.C. native filmmaker Mack Hastings created dark comedy during the pandemic’s early months

Parker Reed |

Want to go on a getaway? A new short film tells the story of why you maybe shouldn’t go on a vacay, especially with your significant other. 

The Getaway is a short film from Minneapolis-based, Eau Claire native filmmaker Mack Hastings that was largely shot in Eau Claire. The film is a dark comedy about a pair of TikTok influencers’ romantic getaway that goes horribly wrong. The story is told through both their TikTok accounts, intermixed with a more traditional cinematic story.

The film will be screened at 7pm on Friday, March 11, at the Micon Downtown Budget Cinema in Eau Claire. 

I grew up going to movies in Eau Claire at Micon downtown, so it’s still surreal to see our work up on the screen.

Mack Hastings

filmmaker

“We always love getting a chance to play something on the big screen,” Hastings said. “I grew up going to movies in Eau Claire at Micon Downtown, so it's still surreal to me to see our work up on the screen. This film has a lot of horror and comedic elements, and those are best enjoyed with a room of people who are on the ride with you, so don’t miss the chance to do that! Following the film, there will be a Q&A session hosted by Eau Claire artist Aidan Kraus, featuring myself and some of the cast and crew, sharing stories and insights about the making of the film. We've screened with Micon before and it’s always a lovely time.”

The Getaway was filmed early on during the COVID-19 pandemic, causing the size of the crew to be smaller than normal. The project was completed prior to the vaccine being made available, so Hastings and his crew were hyperaware of keeping their crew small to reduce the risk to any person involved in the production. Cinematographer Shane Sleger served in all production roles with Hastings with the exception of sound, which was handled by Eau Claire rock musician Jon Olstadt. 

Another local musician, Josh Ingersoll of The Heart Pills, also took part in the production by playing one of the lead roles in the film. He said the project was one of the favorite creative endeavors he has been involved in, and he’s excited for people to be able to see the finished project on the big screen.

“Personally I think the whole thing is genuinely funny, but from the handful of friends we’ve shown it to, they found it pretty freaky, too, so that’s cool,” Ingersoll said. “It gets a strong reaction. I love the old Twilight Zone episodes, and to me it kind of plays like that.”

Hastings said getting to film and show The Getaway in Eau Claire is an exciting opportunity, and one he doesn’t take for granted. 

“It's always fun to find a project that allows me to come home and make something with my friends,” Hastings said. “Most of the cast grew up in Eau Claire or has ties to the area, so it's really a family affair. Many people all over Eau Claire have graciously opened their doors to our productions over the years, for which we’re really grateful. It’s a lovely place to make a movie.”


Tickets for The Getaway screening are available now on miconcinemas.com. The film will be available to view online following the event.