Gozo's nativity village site to feature in new biblical film production aimed for Netflix
The Ta’ Passi fields, which have been hosting the Maltese islands’ biggest live crib for the last eleven years, will this March be transforming into a set for an upcoming production titled Lazarus.
Lazarus, a short film funded by the Malta Film Commission, will be shot over three days and will be using two main locations; the village of Ghajnsielem (including the Ta' Passi fields) and the Xwejni salt pans in Marsalforn.
The short film is based on the popular biblical story of Lazarus and is narrated from the perspective of Lazarus's sisters, Mary and Martha. Director and scriptwriter Chris Kotey says that the sisters will explore the differences between faith and belief. Chris continues to add that 'Lazarus' will be distributed in local cinemas as well as local and international film festivals, with the intent of it being pitched to Netflix as a fully fledged series.
Local actors Erika Muscat and Naomi Said will be playing the roles of Martha and Mary respectively, while the role of Lazarus will be played by Rudy Emmanuel Catania. Massimo Portelli will also be stepping into Jesus's shoes for this short film.
Mythologues Productions, the team behind this short film, is currently recruiting extras for a scheduled filming day on Sunday 1st March between 7am and 3pm. Interested applicants are invited to fill in an application at the Ghajnsielem Local Council and include a passport size photo by Monday 17th February.
While priority will be given to Ghajnsielem residents, everyone is invited to apply, with the production actively seeking people whose ages range between 20 to 50 years old. Parents with children are also invited to join in for a day of filming which promises to be an exciting family day. Remuneration will also be given to each background actor.
Will you be applying?