HILARY DUFF, ELLEN BURSTYN AND… OCEAN GROVE STAR IN “ACCORDING TO GRETA” (EXCLUSIVE)

Posted by thebplot on January 28, 2010 in NEWS > Ocean Grove

“According to Greta” a movie filmed fall 2007 on location in Ocean Grove, Asbury Park and Bradley Beach was released on DVD and Blu-Ray last week to positive reviews.

“Greta,” written by Michael Gilvary while he lived in Ocean Grove during the early 2000’s, tells the story of a rebellious 17 year-old (Hilary Duff) who is in the middle of an emotional journey potentially moving towards a dark finale. After spending time with her grandparents (Ellen Burstyn and Michael Murphy) on the New Jersey shore and meeting new friends – and a hot love interest – Greta’s path leads to a brighter future.

The cast of 10 spent weeks in the Ocean Grove area filming “Greta” billed as an “always-surprising comedy and drama.”

“Once we scouted the town, we realized how much of a character Ocean Grove had become in the movie and we were determined to film in the city,” said Rick Rosenthal, producer (“Halloween II,” “Halloween Resurrection”). “The Painted Ladies, the tent cottages, the Boardwalk and the contrast with Asbury Park all became significant elements to the movie.”

Key plot points in “Greta” extensively feature Kevin Chambers’ Ocean Pathway home in Ocean Grove, the Boardwalks in both Ocean Grove and Asbury Park, the power plant building and Ocean Avenue near the WonderBar in Asbury Park in addition to the Bradley Beach train station.

Duff’s acting stands strong against elegant acting heavyweight Burstyn, who shines in her “shore-casual” Katherine role.

The film, which reportedly cost $2 million to produce, is by Whitewater Films, recipient of two Film Independent Spirit Awards for the teen drama “Mean Creek and Anchor Bay Entertainment” and is worth a weekend screening with friends.

I predict a “I spot…Ocean Grove” drinking game accompanying this picture. Enjoy.

Richard@TheBPlot.com