Hired Gun- new documentary by Fran Strine opens in San Francisco June 29

By Moira Sullivan

Fran Strine worked on his documentary “Hired Gun” for three years, where he interviewed 55 backup musicians to major artists such such as Alice Cooper Metallica and Pink. They are referred to as "Hired Guns" - assassins - and are the best around that go on music tours with major artists. According to one artist there are about 20 musicians - hired guns - on every single record that everyone ones. The reality of their lives and the ups and downs of their careers are captured by the filmmaker. It was Strine’s ambition to make a different documentary with profiles of the inner lives of these excellent musicians. Two of the interviewees are the drummer Liberty DeVitto and guitarist Russell Javors. Both of them worked for and were replaced by other musicians by Billy Joel –De Vitto had worked for him for 30 years. Nita Strauss, one of the hired Guns featured in the film, has played for Alice Cooper, Jermaine Jackson, Femme Fatale Critical Hit and the The Iron Maidens. She reports that you have to be "on point all of the time".

A hired gun is usually hired at the last minute and so Fran STrine emphasizes that these have to be the best - not only a great musician but someone with a personality that helps to make a great gig. And that means being great every time to keep getting gigs.

The documentary is unique in giving us a backstage view of "Hired Guns" -the unsung heroes who make major artists sound great. There has not been such a focus yet and Fran Strine hits a home run in his assemblage of these musicians that make rock gigs rock.

The film will be shown as special one day event on Thursday June 20 produced by FATHOM EVENTS in theaters across the US and her in the Bay Area it will be at AMC Van Ness in San Francisco and theaters in Daly City 20 and Century at Tanforan in San Bruno. But it is going to be an exceptional one day screening with the best sound theaters, with sound mixing by Lucas Skywalker Ranch.

Fran Strine was overjoyed when Lucas actually asked to mix the sound for the film and it was one of many aspects of this riveting rock spectacle that fell into place. Originally a photographer, Strine is an excellent videographer and was on tour with the heavy metal band "Five Finger Death Punch". That includes their extensive tours national and internationally.

The crystal clear image of "Hired Gun" on widescreen projection with photography by Gavin Fisher with super sound mixed by Skywalker Ranch is sure to be one of this year major rock music video events.

Here now is San Francisco local Fran Strine in an exclusive interview for Movie Magazine International. (interview follows).

Directed by: Fran Strine
Release Date: June 29, 2017
Run Time: 90 Minutes
Rated: RG
Country: USA
Distributor: Voltage Productions

© 2017 - Moira Sullivan - Air Date: 06/28/17
Movie Magazine International

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