Cult classic MurderDrome screening at Athena Cinema for Hell Betties fundraiser
Romantic rivalries, supernatural terror, a demon mistress from hell, bloody murder and lots of roller blading. What more could one ask for on a Friday night?
Well, the Athena Cinema, 20 S. Court St., is hoping not much else, as they will screen the gDrome for one night only at 7 p.m. to help fundraise the local roller derby team Hell Betties.
“It’s a slasher movie,” said Jolena Hansbarger, a junior studying printmaking who has been on the Hell Betties for three years. “It’s going to be gory and low budget, but as awesome as Sharknado.”
Despite only being a few years old, MurderDrome is growing to be a cult sensation. The plot centers upon Cherry Skye, a group of loyal roller-skating women who, upon accident, release a demon mistress from hell and must escape the roller track to save the world.
It’s a perfect fit for Hell Betties as it’s hoping the cult-like following draws people by seeing this off-the-wall B-movie about what they love.
In addition to the Athena Cinema, this screening will be co-sponsored by West End Ciderhouse, 234 W. Washington St.
"I'm good friends with one of the Hell Betties," said Deanna Schwartz, co-owner of West End Ciderhouse. "She mentioned sponsoring and I said 'heck yeah' I love what they're doing and I'm looking forward to seeing that movie."
The $5 admission will help sponsor the team’s expenses including competitions, new team pads, and will assist the team in looking for a home venue, where they can host bouts in Athens.
“We just hope people can enjoy it for what it is: a very silly, fun, slightly blood splattered film,” said Daniel Armstrong, co-writer, director, producer and editor of MurderDrome.
MurderDrome was released in 2013, but the movie has only been seen in the U.S. and Canada of late. Yet, it’s made waves.
“We're honestly quite blown away by the overwhelmingly positive reaction and support we've had from members of the roller derby community around the world,” Armstrong said. “We're humbled and very grateful for those who've watched our film and helped spread the word. We're extremely gratified and excited that it's finding an audience around the world and a lot of people get it and enjoy it.”
The film was able to be screened thanks to the lack of licensing fees needed to screen the movie. West End Ciderhouse’s primary contribution was purchasing the time for the screening at the Athena Cinema. After the movie, there will be an afterparty at the Ciderhouse.
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