Murder mystery in deepest Shaw...

MOVIE makers . . . creating a film in Shaw are, from left, David Platt, Michelle Smith and Jim Partington

WATCH out Scorsese and Spielberg — a new crime caper is to be filmed in the heart of Shaw.

The full length feature film is being made with the help of Shaw Live TV and the brains behind it are seeking budding actors to get involved.

Jim Partington, from Shaw, wrote the script and will direct “Payback — The Final Bell” while Shaw Live TV cameraman David Platt will be behind the camera and producing.

It will be shot on locations in Shaw and filmed in standard and high definition.

The movie begins with the last round of a boxing match but as the referee holds aloft the arm of the winner, the boxer is shot. More murders follow as detectives try to uncover who is behind the spate of crimes.

Mr Partington worked on the script for four years while working as a taxi driver.

He said: “I just had an idea and started writing things down and one thing led to another. I took it to a guy I know who is a published writer and involved in boxing.

“I knew he would tell it to me warts and all and he said it would make a good script for something like ‘The Bill’.

“I modified it and had a word with Jim Penhall at Shaw Live TV and he said he was interested. I’ll be directing unless someone better comes along. Martin Scorsese was not I was told!

“The film is more of a detective whodunnit than a gangster film.

“I’ve done a lot of video work when younger of sporting events. We are using what limited experience we have to try and make something out of this.”

Multi-talented Mr Partington (49) has already written the music for the film.

He added: “It’s all original and I recorded it myself at Oldham College.”

Mr Platt (44), from Shaw, said: “I have been interested in film-making since I was 11 so it’s a dream come true.

“We are looking for anyone with an interest in acting to get in touch. There are quite a few parts where we need men in their mid 40s and 50s.”

Michelle Smith, from Greenacres, has already been cast as the female lead. She will play the romantic interest as the widow of the murdered boxer who gets involved with a suspicious boxing promoter.

Funding is purely from its creators’ pockets and it will be released on DVD with segments shown on Shaw Live TV. It will be sold through the website and other outlets.

Shaw Live TV was launched last November as a community-based, internet TV channel.

Anyone interested in auditioning for an acting part, or who help with technical duties, can call Mr Platt on 07970 787308.