The new 3-D, post-apocalyptic thriller Priest is about an ongoing war between vampires and humans.
But to Michael Yeager of Perry Hall, it's about living a lifelong dream.
As part of Sony's Priest in 3D Trailer Challenge, the Towson University senior won a trip to the film's star-studded premiere Friday in Los Angeles.
Sony provided film clips, music and editing software via a Facebook application and each contestant created a minute-long movie trailer.
"It only took a couple of hours," Yeager said. "I sat down for an hour, got started, went out with a friend and came back to finish."
Although he hadn't expected to win—the contest received more than 6,200 entries—Yeager is no stranger to film editing.
While majoring in digital design, he and friend Corey Mellott launched Camellott Films, an independent production studio that promotes its short films on Facebook and YouTube.
In one of their films, "The Occupant," written by Mellott, Yeager plays the victim of a masked, knife-wielding murderer. He runs along Belair Road and inside of stalls at the Magic Wand Car Wash, next to the Perry Hall Methodist Church.
"I've always had a passion for acting," Yeager said.
Yeager, joined by Mellott, flew to L.A. on Thursday. There they met Maggie Q, one of the stars of Priest, in advance of the Friday night premiere.
Yeager later wrote on his Facebook page:
I love everyone at home, but this feels right, this is me, this is where I need to be. I have dreams, and I will accomplish those dreams. I know hard work and patience is the key, but I am willing to do whatever it takes to get me where I need to be.
After Towson's graduation in two weeks, Yeager plans to move to L.A. permanently.
His mother, Terri Yeager, said he has the determination and artistic talent to be a success.
"It will be hard to see him go," she said. "But he needs to follow his dreams."
Terri Y.
5:42 pm on Friday, May 13, 2011
Perry Hall Patch...Thank you for the wonderful article. I have been talking to Michael while he has been in L. A. and this truly has been a dream come true for him. He had a personal meet and greet, and photo shoot with Maggie Q, star of the Priest 3D movie, at the premier last night. Don't think he will be staying in Perry Hall much longer after graduation!
Terri Yeager
lisa bayer
9:49 am on Saturday, May 14, 2011
Be proud Michael has so much determation and already knows who he wants to be. It Is a reflection on you and Keith and what great parents u are. I know distance between a mother and son is especially hard, Joshua Is living In Vermont and I miss him everyday. Please I don't want to see u on the news chasing his airplane down the runway, LOL