Director Stuart Ortiz, known for his unconventional filmmaking style, collaborated with stars Peter Zizzo and Terri Apple on the faux true crime film “Strange Harvest.” Ortiz, who gained fame with films like “Grave Encounters” and “Extraterrestrial,” ventured into the gritty world of true crime with this project. The movie, produced by XYZ Films and Adorable Damage, delves into a bizarre crime scene that unfolds in the Inland Empire in July 2010.
Ortiz’s inspiration for “Strange Harvest” stemmed from a desire to blend horror elements with a documentary format, influenced by a mix of iconic works like “True Detective,” “Silence of the Lambs,” and authors like Stephen King and H.P. Lovecraft. The film’s narrative weaves a tale of ritualistic murders intertwined with a past serial killer case, setting the stage for a chilling exploration of the criminal psyche.
The film’s stars, Peter Zizzo and Terri Apple, who portray detectives Joe Kirby and Lexi Taylor, shared insights into their character preparations. Zizzo drew inspiration from real-life detectives and focused on embodying the stoic yet haunted demeanor of a seasoned investigator. Apple, on the other hand, found a personal connection to her character, drawing on past scripts to enrich her portrayal of a passionate and dedicated homicide detective.
Despite the creative challenges posed by the unconventional filming style and noisy shooting locations, Ortiz and his team navigated through the production process with determination. The unique scheduling demands and unexpected disruptions added layers of complexity to the filming experience, requiring adaptability and focus from the cast and crew.
For Apple, the role of Lexi Taylor offered a fulfilling opportunity to explore the complexities of a character deeply invested in her work while grappling with the emotional toll of solving heinous crimes. The character’s fervor for justice and frustration with the system added depth to Apple’s performance, creating a multidimensional portrayal of a dedicated investigator.
“Strange Harvest,” featuring a talented ensemble cast, including Andy Lauer, Matthew Peschio, and Thomas Wolfe Jr, made its debut at Fantastic Fest 2024 and is poised for wider distribution. The film’s blend of true crime storytelling and supernatural elements promises a gripping viewing experience for audiences eager for a fresh take on the genre.
As Ortiz, Zizzo, and Apple reflect on their collaborative journey in bringing “Strange Harvest” to life, the film stands as a testament to their creative vision and commitment to pushing the boundaries of storytelling. With its blend of horror, mystery, and psychological depth, “Strange Harvest” offers a compelling exploration of the darker facets of human nature, leaving a lasting impact on viewers drawn to the allure of bizarre crimes and occult mysteries.