‘Ticket Out’ slated to film at courthouse

A technical scout crew toured the Jasper County Courthouse on Tuesday afternoon, the first steps toward filming scenes there next month. Disparate Films LLC of Urbandale will be filming in the courthouse’s third floor courtroom on Jan. 10 and perhaps 11, according to a location filming agreement signed by the supervisors during the regular meeting Tuesday. Everyone from executive producers to stunt coordinators, to lighting technicians to cameramen were on hand, examining all aspects of the third floor courtroom, where most of the action for that part of the film will take place. Executive Producer Chris Noonan, who also served as executive producer for “Babe,” explained the basic premise of “Ticket Out.” “It’s the story of a custody battle,” Noonan said. “The husband and wife split, and the court grants custody of the children to the husband, who we know is abusive. The wife flees with the children. It’s about a flight from justice.” The husband and wife of “Ticket Out” will be played by Alexandra Breckenridge, who starred in “She’s the Man,” and Billy Burke, whose latest film was “Twilight.” The film also will star Ray Liotta, whose character is a friend of Breckenridge’s. Unfortunately for Ray Liotta fans in Newton, he will have no part in the scene being filmed here. The film’s director, Doug Lodato, said he anticipated filming the courthouse from the northeast corner of the square, as well as scenes of the Newton First National Bank. Other scenes will be filmed in Prairie City on Jan. 26 and 27. Production Manager Murray McDonald said they plan to film along the west side of the Prairie City square, creating a pharmacy there. Other filming will be done in Perry and Adel. Dorrance Brezina, who is serving as a liaison between the film company and local officials, said Jasper County’s courthouse was chosen because it was the one that most closely resembled the look of the courtroom they wanted for the film. Brezina said there were initially some concerns about cooperation with Jasper officials but praised Auditor Dennis Parrott for moving the process along. He said Sheriff Mike Balmer also was very cooperative in what will require control of street access during filming, and other local issues. During filming at the courthouse, some extras will be needed. About 50 locals will be playing minor roles, including some in suits, several children, and some men and women for sidewalk scenes. In fact, one local has already been hired. Jackie Veatch, who is a court stenographer for Judge Thomas Mott, was asked to play a stenographer during filming of the courtroom scene. Veatch admitted she was a little nervous at the prospect but was glad they were getting a real stenographer to give the scene authenticity. “Ticket Out” is expected to hit the theaters sometime next year.

John Jennings can be contacted at 792-3121 ext. 425 or via e-mail at jjennings@newtondailynews.com.