Spiked is a 2021 American drama film written and directed by Juan Martinez Vera and starring Aidan Quinn.[3] It is inspired by events in the life of Arizona-based newspaper publisher Joseph Soldwedel, who serves as an executive producer.[4]

Spiked
Directed byJuan Martinez Vera
Written byJuan Martinez Vera
Produced byPer Melita
StarringAidan Quinn
CinematographyWill Jobe[1]
Hernán Toro[1]
Music byKubilay Uner[2]
Distributed byGravitas Ventures
Release date
  • March 26, 2021 (2021-03-26)
CountryUnited States
LanguageEnglish

Plot

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The story follows John Wilson, a newspaper publisher in a small U.S./Mexico border town who denounces the abuse of power by local law enforcement. Wilson has been at it for years and has made more than a few enemies and stepped on more than a few toes. Following the killing of an immigrant worker, an incident that the police are unwilling to do anything about, the newspaper publisher and his team take on the plight of the family and of the community to find those responsible and bring them to justice. At every turn, his efforts are thwarted by an uncooperative police chief who seems to have her own agenda. Matters escalate when John succumbs to a mysterious illness that threatens his life and his investigation.[5]

Cast

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Production

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Principal photography occurred near Tucson, Arizona in August and September 2019.[1][7][8] The indie film stars Aidan Quinn, best known for his role on the CBS series “Elementary.” Quinn delivers an outstanding performance as John Wilson, a character inspired by real-life events surrounding Arizona-based newspaper publisher Joseph Soldwedel. Soldwedel’s experience fighting injustices as a longtime newspaperman helped lend authenticity to the film, and his financial support gave birth to the project. Soldwedel and his son Brett served as the film’s executive producers[9]

Release

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Gravitas Ventures acquired North American distribution rights to the film in February 2021. The film was released on VOD on March 26, 2021.[10]

References

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  1. ^ a b c d "Movie inspired by local newspaper owner's near-fatal ordeal". Navajo-Hopi Observer. 10 September 2019. Retrieved 9 October 2020.
  2. ^ "Kubilay Uner to Score Juan Martinez Vera's 'Spiked'". Film Music Reporter. 16 November 2020. Retrieved 21 November 2020.
  3. ^ Kay, Jeremy (February 14, 2022). "IuviT Media Sales boards Aidan Quinn drama 'Spiked' for EFM (exclusive)". Screen Daily. Retrieved April 15, 2022.
  4. ^ a b c d e N'Duka, Amanda (22 August 2019). "'Elementary's Aidan Quinn To Star In Indie Drama 'Spiked' From Juan Martinez Vera". Deadline Hollywood. Retrieved 9 October 2020.
  5. ^ "Movie shines light on abuse of police power against immigrants". Navajo-Hopi Observer News. Retrieved 2023-03-11.
  6. ^ N'Duka, Amanda (11 September 2019). "Eric Roberts Toplines 'My Dinner With Eric Roberts (Julia's brother)'; Wendy Makkena, Walter Belenky Join 'Spiked'; 'Charming the Hearts of Men' Adds Cast". Deadline Hollywood. Retrieved 9 October 2020.
  7. ^ "Filming begins for movie about Arizona newspaper owner". Havasu News. 25 August 2019. Retrieved 10 October 2020.
  8. ^ "Movie inspired by local newspaper owner's near-fatal ordeal". The Kingman Daily Miner. 10 September 2019. Retrieved 9 October 2020.
  9. ^ "Movie inspired by local newspaper owner's near-fatal ordeal". The Daily Courier. 7 September 2019. Retrieved 9 October 2020.
  10. ^ Kroll, Justin (9 February 2021). "Gravitas Ventures Acquires 'Spiked' For North American Distribution". Deadline Hollywood. Retrieved 12 February 2021.
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