Locally made film ‘Hongo’ hits big screen for one-day premiere

MILAN, Tenn. — It was an exciting night for West Tennessee as many people filled the Ritz movie theater Tuesday in Milan for a special premiere.

Bolivar native Jaron Lockridge is behind bringing the project to life. The film “Hongo” is a one-of-a-kind thriller starring folks from the West Tennessee area. Lockridge directed, produced and wrote the film. He first showed the film in Memphis during a festival but wanted to bring it back home for a one-day movie premiere.

“The film itself was shot right here in the Jackson, Tennessee, area,” Lockridge said. “It’s only fitting that we’re able to premiere it here at home.”

“Hongo” is a thriller about a man recently released from prison trying to get his life back on track, with a sinister twist. Lockridge did not have to travel to Hollywood to find a cast.

“Almost everybody except for one who’s from Memphis is right here in Jackson, Tennessee, area. Local talent,” Lockridge said.

“I’m in it, so everybody is going to love it,” cast member Xavier Hill said.

Lockridge said he is glad to see his vision come to life but anxious to see how moviegoers will respond.

“My aunt invited me,” moviegoer Kandace Walker said. “She said she has a nephew that has something to do with the movie, so I’m really excited to see what it’s about.”

Some cast members said being a part of the film was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

“I’m super excited about it,” Hill said. “[I’ve] been waiting on it for like a year now almost, and this is my first time ever being a part of any acting thing or whatever.”

It has been a long process, as “Hongo” has been in the works since January 2016, but now that the premiere date finally arrived, Lockridge said he felt accomplished.

“I plan to continue making movies, so I hope that we can continue to do this and just show that it’s so much talent here in this area that needs to be displayed,” Lockridge said.

After the movie, Lockridge along with cast members stayed behind to host a Q&A with attendees.

Although Tuesday was the movie’s local premiere, Lockridge says he hopes to soon announce an official release date.