The film, to be based on the real life events of serial killer Robert Hansen and the women who were his victims, aims to raise awareness of the harrowing issues surrounding sexual violence towards women and to offer a voice of hope by not only focussing on the hoffific crimes of a serial killer, but by depicting "two people who overcame prejudice, fear and other difficulties to put an end to Hansen’s horrific spree"

The production also hopes to offer support to the community programs The Abused Women’s Aid in Crisis (AWAIC) shelter, Covenant House for homeless teens, Standing Together Against Rape (STAR) agency, and Gov. Parnell’s “Choose Respect” initiative.

Heartening to read the commitment of the film and production team to tell this important story, to highlight such important issues and actively support these crucial and worthwhile causes.

For our general discussion topic on The Frozen Ground click HERE!!

New film about Alaska serial killer goes beyond crimes

Movies, books and plays often shine a light on unrecognized or unaddressed problems in our society.  By giving a voice to victims and those who are vulnerable, these media can have a profound impact on our understanding of issues and awaken our resolve to effect meaningful change.

It is no secret that Alaska has long been plagued by a high incidence of violence against women. According to the 2010 Alaska Victimization Survey, 37.1 percent of Alaska women have experienced sexual violence. From 2003 to 2009, the rate of forcible rape in this state was 2.6 times higher than the national average.

These are uncomfortable statistics. But reversing them is only possible if they are first acknowledged and confronted.

Gov. Sean Parnell is taking a comprehensive approach to stopping the epidemic of sexual violence in Alaska, and he has made it a priority of his administration. His Choose Respect campaign aims to erase the fear, shame and despair that accompany sexual violence and replace it with hope and opportunity.

An upcoming movie being filmed in Alaska works toward this end. "The Frozen Ground" recounts actual events that occurred in and around Anchorage. Between 1973 and 1983, serial killer Robert Hansen murdered between 17 and 21 women.

Alaska State Trooper Glenn Flothe is credited with building the case to arrest Hansen. However, it was the escape and testimony of one of Hansen’s victims – Cindy Paulson – that ultimately led to his arrest. He took a plea deal on 12 of the murders and is currently serving 416 years plus life in the Spring Creek Correctional Facility in Seward.

Walker is specifically interested in shining a light on the plight of young people on the street, sometimes referred to as “disposable youth.” His script incorporates the victim’s viewpoint based on many hours of interviews with Paulson. Her cooperation alone validates that it is time for the story to be told and to acknowledge those who never had the chance to tell their story.  

Principal photography on the film, which stars Nicolas Cage and John Cusack, begins in October. Spending in Alaska is anticipated to be near $19 million. Local film production company, Piksik LLC, is attached to the project. More than 100 Alaskans are expected to work on the film, with projected wages totaling $3.5 million. In keeping with the growing film industry here in Alaska, other economic benefits, based on lodging, food, transportation and support services will also be realized.  But, in the final analysis, the economic benefits may be tangential to the opportunity for social catharsis.

Aspects of the story of "The Frozen Ground" may be difficult and disconcerting to us all. But the benefits of the production to Alaska, both socially and economically, cannot be denied. The courage of Cindy Paulson and the dedication of Trooper Glenn Flothe and other law enforcement officials will leave the audience with a hopeful message of lives transformed by courage and caring.  In honor and respect to all of the lives touched by the madness of Robert Hansen, their story needs to be told.

Read more here