Virginia Madsen and Star-Studded Cast Begin Filming Dark Comedy
Oscar nominee Virginia Madsen leads a talented ensemble cast in the dark comedy feature film, The Ice at the Bottom of the World. The film, directed by James C.E. Burke, also stars Jake Weber, Will Patton, Jon Tenney, and Wes Chatham, among others. Production began recently in Matthews and Gloucester Counties, Virginia.
The plot revolves around a Navy captain who returns to his Chesapeake Bay Island home after spending 35 years at sea. He aims to reconcile with his long-suffering wife and spirited daughters before his impending death. The situation takes a chaotic turn when he accidentally shoots down a Navy jet, complicating their reunion with humor and unexpected confessions.
The screenplay is adapted from Mark Richard‘s PEN/Hemingway award-winning collection of short stories, which shares the same title. Richard is also serving as an executive producer for the film. According to Chris Miller, an Oscar-winning producer, “Mark’s keenly observed script about family relationships has a long history in Hollywood lore.” He expresses excitement about finally bringing this character-driven comedy to life with a carefully selected creative team.
In addition to Madsen, the cast includes Seth Numrich, Emily DeForest, and Elise Eberle. DisruptiveLA is fully financing the film, with Miller and Marc Ambrose producing. Miller emphasizes the importance of the film’s character depth, which he believes will resonate with audiences.
Burke describes the film as an exploration of family dynamics, stating, “The Ice at the Bottom of the World explores the things we do for, against, and because of family—and how love persists through it all.” He was drawn to the script for its ability to blend absurdity and tenderness, making it a unique comedic narrative.
Burke’s previous works include notable films such as Afternoon Delight, which won Best Director at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival, and 13 Conversations About One Thing, a National Board of Review top ten winner. His experience in theatre is also commendable, with productions that have garnered numerous critics’ awards, including a Tony Award-winning Broadway production of Long Day’s Journey into Night.
As filming progresses in the actual setting of Chesapeake Bay, Burke considers this experience a dream come true, offering authenticity to the story’s backdrop. The film promises to combine humor with heartfelt moments, showcasing how love can transform life’s challenges into meaningful experiences.
Representatives for the cast include Buchwald and Untitled for Madsen, Framework for Weber, IAG for Patton, Gersh and Link for Tenney, and Gersh and Brecheen Feldman Breimer Silver Thompson, LLP for Chatham. Other cast members are represented by Innovative and Authentic Talent and Literary Management.
With its seasoned cast and creative team, The Ice at the Bottom of the World aims to deliver a compelling and entertaining take on family relationships, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Chesapeake Bay.
