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John Putch hints at new Pennsylvania film as premiere of "Route 30, Three' hits York theater


YORK >> The third installment of the "Route 30" trilogy is set to have its York premiere on April 11 in Strand Capitol Theater, followed by a Chambersburg premiere July 11.

The new film, "Route 30, Three," centers around the mysterious disappearance of Rotten Egg (Lee Wilkof) and how the true identity of three-time "Route 30" character Tork (David Cowgill) is revealed.

Another intriguing story line is how a magical antique camera takes photos that reveals the truth in every photo.

Director John Putch said he appreciates the support these films have garnered from area audiences. Three-time cast member Ed Gotwalt, owner of Mister Ed's Candy Emporium and Elephant Museum, Orrtanna, said he loves the trilogy because the films find "inspiration in south-central Pennsylvania from locations and characters and stories that shaped Putch's life, and then seeing how he brought that to the screen, it's just amazing."

Chambersburg's Molly Lahr and St. Thomas native Alicia Fusting will return for the third outing.

Totem Pole titans Wil Love, Carl Schurr and Ray Ficca will also appear in new roles, and Dan Poole from Baltimore returns as the lovable Stickle.

Putch is busy writing and planning his next micro-budgeted film to shoot in Franklin and Adams counties. "It's not a Route 30 movie. It will probably have a bit more emotional impact to it. But as usual, it will make you chuckle and tug on your heart at the same time. I look forward to returning to the area to capture more magic," he said.

Although Putch would not specify shooting dates, he confirmed that his small band of filmmaking friends would roll the cameras sometime in late summer.

The screenings at 3 and 7 p.m. April 11 in Strand Capitol Theater, 50 N. George St., will include an audience talk-back with Putch and cast members. Scheduled to attend, along Putch, are Mister Ed (as himself), Cowgill, Fusting, Poole and FIcca.

DVDs of the new film and the previous films will be available for purchase and autographing. The first 100 attendees to attend both screenings will receive a free souvenir poster.

To buy tickets, visit www.mystrandcapitol.org/event/route-30-trilogy-3pm/

Chambersburg's premiere will be two showings at 3 and 7 p.m. July 11 in Capitol Theatre, 159 S. Main St., Chambersburg.

Film information and trailer are online at www.route30three.com.