'This could be the next Hollywood': Norfolk film draws community support on Saturday

NORFOLK, Neb. -- A movie that was shot entirely in Norfolk premiered Saturday at a local theatre and saw hundreds of community members stop by to check it out.

“My Journey” was shown to the public for the very first time at the Norfolk 7 Theatre for free.

The film was created by Norfolk’s very own Ben Viergutz. He said it’s all about the surrounding community.

“I wanted to bring together local, talented and passionate people for the arts together in this community and create a film that showcases those talents and our passion,” Viergutz said.

Viergutz said when he was putting together the cast, he was looking for people who wanted film experience to create a local picture.

“We were just looking for passionate, driven individuals who were interested in acting or being behind the camera,” he said.

The lead actor from the production Tom Howell said the film was shot in only 30 days.

“It was a little rushed,” Howell said. “I think just having the company in every one on the crew and the cast was just an incredible experience.”

Howell’s co-star in the film, Ashley Owens, said shooting the feature film in Norfolk was a blast.

“Norfolk is a great place for film, that is completely passed over and nobody realizes that” Owens said.

Owen’s also had quite the statement about what Norfolk could become in the future.

“This could be a next Hollywood,” she said.

Usually movie premieres take place in the evening but not “My Journey”. The film was shown at 9:30 am but that didn’t stop the community from coming out to show support.

Howell said he wasn’t surprised with the turn out.

“I think Norfolk’s an incredible community with incredible people,” he said.

Viergutz said over 600 people came stopped by Saturday morning to check out the film.