Murder mystery filmed in Willits premieres at Austin Film Festival

“Murder Bury Win” is an independent movie about board games and murder, and it was all filmed right here in Mendocino County.

Now “Murder Bury Win” is heading to the Austin Film Festival, one of the most prestigious film festivals in the country, known for its focus on films that showcase strong narrative storytelling. The film has been placed in the Comedy Vanguard competition, where it will compete against five other international comedies.

“Ironically,” saysMichael Lovan, the film’s writer, producer and director, “For a film centered on board games, I’m not a competitive person. I’m just honored to see ‘ Murder Bury Win’ recognized as an Official Selection of the Austin Film Festival, which is a dream come true.”

The film is about three young men who want to strike it big with their independent board game, “Murder Bury Win.” When their attempt to crowdfund fails, a mysterious benefactor promises to publish their game — on the condition that he is listed as the sole creator. Fromthere, the film takes off in frightening, surprising and unexpectedly hilarious ways.

It stars Mikelen Walker (BET’S Rebel), Erich Lane (Dear White People), Craig Cackowski ( Community, Drunk History), Brian Slaten (Criminal Minds), and newcomer Henry Alexander Kelly.

Due to the pandemic, the Austin Film Festival is doing this year’s competition remotely, preventing filmmakers from attending the festival in-person and forming bonds with potential collaborators. “The upside,” says Lovan, “is that with a virtual festival, literally anyone can now attend.”

“Murder Bury Win” will be playing on the opening night of the festival, Thursday, Oct. 22, until the end of the festival, Oct. 29. To attend the virtual premiere, you can buy tickets here: https://austinfilmfestivalconference2020. eventive. org/schedule/5f70c3c425a2 47004ca7c4e7 and you can watch the trailer at the official site, www.MurderBuryWin.com.