By Rachee Hatch
Published: Aug. 9, 2026 at 3:29 PM MDT|Updated: Aug. 10, 2026 at 3:43 PM MDT
GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KKCO) - A locally made film, “American Vampires,” is set to screen Aug. 14 at the Avalon Theatre, featuring local talent both in front of and behind the camera.
Production on the film began in August of last year, with more than 50 Grand Junction residents involved in the project.
About the film
Writer, director and producer Hank Braxtan described the film’s plot as centered on a bounty hunter.
“This film’s about a bounty hunter who’s trying to catch a bail skip, and he digs up more than he bargained for,” Braxtan said. “So, once they release the vampires, it’s an action chase adventure through the streets of Grand Junction.” Braxtan grew up in Grand Junction, which he said inspired him to film the thriller in his hometown.
“It’s really unique and awesome to come back to your hometown and make movies here,” Braxtan said.
Classroom to set
A producer of the film who also works as a tech film instructor said the production gave students hands-on experience beyond the classroom.
“Me and Hank have personally taught a lot of these students and been hands on in their education,” said Josh Meuwly, producer and tech film instructor. “And so to be able to work side by side with them, there’s no better feeling than that.”
Student perspective
Eric Siglar, a Colorado Mesa University tech student who served as first assistant camera on the film, said the experience of working alongside fellow students stood out to him.
“As a student, this film was fun because you’re working alongside a bunch of other students, people you’re in school with every day, people who care about the project, people who have a passion for doing what they do,” Siglar said. “So it’s like a big classroom when you get to set. You’re always learning so much.”
Siglar said he hopes the community recognizes the effort behind the production.
“We did this with very little money, but with a group of people who are extremely passionate about what they do, and that is what makes the difference,” Siglar said. “So, I just hope they see the hard work that we put into it and enjoy it.”
The screening at the Avalon Theatre is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Aug. 14. More information is available here.
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