Yes. The Booby Trap (2009) is based on a true story, written by Michael Johnson, though certain elements were changed for logistical filming purposes. An example is, in real life Doug (played by Tyler Porter) throws the VCR into the creek. For the purposes of keeping everything contained in the same location, a shed was written into the story.
The Practicum Program at Columbia College, Chicago is a unique fusion of classroom learning and hands-on experience. Modeled after the Hollywood studio system, this highly competitive academic program combines six student-Producers with six students from: Directing, Screenwriting, Cinematography, Production Design, Sound, Editing, etc., in the hopes of generating six films that represent the best Columbia College, Chicago has to offer. Each film is given a limited budget, with a limited amount of film, equipment, and time, and is under the guidance of faculty advisers (including Kevin Cooper and Sharon Zurek) who serve as studio executives. Students are intensely challenged to meet deadlines, solve creative differences, and negotiate deals. Over the course of four semesters time they take an idea from development to distribution. The Booby Trap (2009) was completed as a part of the 2008 Practicum.
The Booby Trap (2009) was fortunate enough to have the help of in Chicago. Through the hard work of casting directors Kim Williams and David O'Connor, the film was able to hold auditions with actors from across three states. Director Simon Pennekamp is quick to point out that much of the success of the film can be directly attributed to the amazing work that took place in the auditions process.
Principal photography for The Booby Trap (2009) took place over four days in Chicago, IL. Much to the credit of 1st AD Alana Brown and the line producer duo Rebecca Hurst and Katie Kennedy, the film came in on time and under budget. After assembling a rough cut with editor Kristin Rogers, director Simon Pennekamp decided to add a half day pick-up shoot to build in a few more jokes (the cleavage inserts and the ice cream truck.)
In total, a team of six producers came together to create The Booby Trap (2009). Headed up by Eric McCoy and Jeremy Peruski, this team was set with the task of making a $60,000 film at less than 10% of the cost. This coalition of producers also included associate producers Rebecca Hurst, Katie Kennedy, Dimitri William Moore, and executive producer Kevin Cooper.
As of now, no formal plans have been made to develop a feature version of The Booby Trap (2009).
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