An independent film crew that's been filming around the city over the past week is descending on City Hall tonight and tomorrow night (March 2nd-3rd). The shoot is for the feature-length film The Etruscan Smile, which stars Rosanna Arquette, best-known for her role in Desperately Seeking Susan, and Emmy Award-winning Scottish actor Brian Cox (who played the original Hannibal Lecter from Manhunter). The film is being directed by Oded Binnun and Mihal Brezis, who were nominated for an Oscar in 2015 for their short film Aya.
According to IMDB, the movie is based on a Spanish novel of the same name, by José Luis Sampedro. "The story follows tough old Scotsman Rory MacNeil as he travels from his home in the remote island of Vallasay, Scotland to San Francisco. Seeking treatment for a terminal illness, the colorful character stays with his son and his family. Rory finds his precious days left alive transformed as he bonds with his American grandson." (The original novel is set in Italy, hence the reference to the Etruscan civilization of ancient Italy.)
It's unlikely you'll spot the stars yourself: the folks at FilmSF told us that both days' shoots are being held after the building closes at 8pm, and everything will be shot indoors, under the rotunda. However, it may not be too late for aspiring actors to become extras in the film.
Thanks to tipsters Patty C. and Jimbo.
