Sacramento, CA… Opens July 2nd, 2021 in Theaters and on Demand at Tower Theater, Sacramento. About The Film: In First Date, shy high schooler Mike finally summons the courage to ask out his badass neighbor Kelsey, only to realize he’s missing a key element for a successful date – the car. Panicked and low on cash, he’s conned into buying a beat up ‘65 Chrysler. Mike’s plan to win over Kelsey soon turns into a surreal misadventure when they are inexplicably targeted by a pair of cops, a criminal gang, and a vengeful cat lady. A night fueled by desire, bullets, and burning rubber makes any other first date seem like a walk in the park. In this perfectly executed throwback thrill ride, directing duo Manuel Crosby and Darren Knapp deftly weave together elements of dark comedy, teen romance, shoot ’em up action and classic coming-of-age story, creating a truly entertaining ride that never misses a beat. This refreshing mix of tones, coupled with a break-out performance from Tyson Brown as Mike, make FIRST DATE a truly outstanding first feature.
The film was co-directed by Manuel Crosby and Darren Knapp and has Northern California connections.
The film was shot in Valley Springs, California where both directors were raised.
– Co-Director Manuel Crosby lives in South Lake Tahoe
– Co-Director Darren Knapp still lives in Valley Springs (not available for interviews)
Some of the cast has Northern California connections as well:
First Date was shot in Valley Springs, California – where both directors grew up.
About the Directors – Manuel Crosby and Darren Knapp
Manuel Crosby – Director
Growing up in Valley Springs, California, Manuel Crosby discovered filmmaking around age twelve and has since written, directed, shot, edited, and produced numerous projects, including the short western film DEAD MAN’S LOCKET (2017) and the thrillers PRECAUTION (2014) and BROADCAST (2012). While volunteering at Calaveras County Public Access TV during college summer vacation, he became friends with Darren Knapp. The two have been making movies with mutual friends ever since. He currently resides in South Lake Tahoe, California.
Darren Knapp – Director
Darren Knapp is an independent filmmaker of 22 years. He has made several short films with credits including Cinematography, Editing, Writing, Directing and Producing. Over the years he has collaborated with his sister Brenda Norris and long- time friends Lucky McKee, Kevin Ford, James Miller, Manuel Crosby and musician/composer James Luckett. Among some of their collaborations are SWITCHES (2002) LIVING BY THE GUN (feature length, 2013) THE MISSING (2014), BROADCAST (2012), PRECAUTION (2014) and DEAD MAN’S LOCKET (2017). Darren was born, raised, and currently lives in Valley Springs, California.
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