New Online's BENCH PROJECT Series Challenges Gay Stereotypes

By: Aug. 17, 2015
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Chappetto Square Productions has announced the online release of its latest short film in the Bench Project series: Heavy Metal. An LGBT-themed drama starring Leon Morgan (Huckleberry Finn - East Lynne Theater Company) and Evan Johnson (Peter and the Starcatcher - Off Broadway), and written/directed by J.X. Carrera, It is now available on the official website www.thebenchproject.tv after having had it's premiere at the Chain NYC Film Festival in Long Island City, NY on August 8, 2015.

Interrupted during his workout, an emotional bodybuilder launches a VICIOUS tirade against his lover. Words are exchanged and egos hurt as the fear of taking the next step together seizes the couple. The film exposes the fear inside even the most stoic and masculine of men and challenges the stereotypes of what it is to be a gay man as seen in media today. As one unbroken 10 minute shot, this is the most unique of the films in the series.

The Bench Project - created by Steven Bidwell - is a passion project intended to give opportunities to up-and-coming artists. Inspired by runs through Astoria Park, the project has blossomed into a series of unique film experiences connected only by their setting. Writers were tasked with creating scripts that were no longer than five pages, limited to two characters, and set on a bench. Through the series, audience members see "couples, strangers, friends, and lovers explore the comedic, the sublime, the mysterious, and the bizarre," according to Bidwell. Each film was produced independently with different creative teams, allowing for distinct tones and aesthetic tastes.

Steven Bidwell is an actor, producer, and singer. He has produced cabaret, Off- Broadway, events, and short films.

J.X. Carrera is a writer, director and editor based in New York and New Jersey. He has produced hundreds of videos for clients ranging from financial publications and tech startups, to entertainment news outlets and the fashion industry.

Learn more about The Bench Project on its website www.thebenchproject.tv, Facebook (www.facebook.com/thebenchproject) and Twitter (@bench_project).



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