BUFFALO NATIVES PLAN TO SHOOT FEATURE FILM IN CITY
May 28,1999
Contact: Peter K. Cutler (716) 851-5841

BUFFALO (5/2 8/99) - Mayor Anthony M. Masiello today joined members of California-based Five Sisters Productions to announce the company is interested in Buffalo as the location for their next feature film, MANNA FROM HEAVEN.

Five Sisters Productions, a company established by the five Burton sisters from Buffalo (Maria, Jennifer, Ursula, Gabrielle and Charity), is planning to shoot the film in the spring of 2000. Pre-production plans will begin immediately with a local production office to be opened in September 1999.

"Five Sisters Productions has already established itself as a producer of high quality, entertaining and enriching feature films that have garnered the attention of the movie industry worldwide," stated Mayor Masiello. "That the Burton sisters have committed themselves to pursuing their latest project in their hometown is testament to their affection for Buffalo and the city's attraction as a viable shooting location. We are thrilled with the prospect of having the Burton sisters back home."

Maria Burton, who will co-direct the film, noted, "We're excited by the idea of involving the community and capturing the city's abundant resources, beautiful architecture and wonderful residents."

Set in Buffalo, MANNA FROM HEAVEN is an ensemble comedy about working-class Irish and Italians written by award-winning author Gabrielle Burton. The Burton sisters' produced two previous feature films: JUST FRIENDS and TEMPS.

The city has worked very closely with Five Sisters and other film production companies to enhance the city's position as a desirable film location. In addition, the city is preparing the framework and logistics to commence an annual film festival that will highlight film companies such as Five Sisters, Buffalo native Vincent Gallo and quality independent feature films.