Middletown, Del. — Eager moviegoers gathered on July 12 in Middletown for a premiere screening of the feature film Death on the Brandywine. Produced, written, and directed locally by Wilmington resident Nick Wilkinson, the independent film is described as a “political whodunit mystery” that follows university Professor Millie Park as she helps her partner, Jackie Riley, investigate the death of U.S. Sen. Daniel Riley during a campaign cycle. Death on the Brandywine features talent including Kate Hudson of Grey’s Anatomy fame, and Tuc Watkins who is most often remembered from 1999’s The Mummy.
The movie’s release comes at a time of increased interest and discussion around attracting film productions to the First State. Exactly one month prior to the premiere event, on June 12, the Delaware House passed HB 364, which established a competitive tax credit for films and television shows produced within the state. On July 9, Gov. Matt Meyer signed the approved Delaware Entertainment Production Tax Credit Act into law; a development celebrated by Nick Wilkinson during the Q&A session during the Middletown event.
Wilkinson told the audience that he “wanted to make a statement” by creating a movie “to showcase Delaware.” He then said he picked a whodunit because creating an entry in that genre would provide him with “a mental challenge.” The comedic detective film was received with fanfare, and many of the attendees had worked on the movie. As the credits rolled, families and friends of those involved in the production enthusiastically clapped, pointed, and cheered when their loved ones’ names appeared on the theater screen.
When asked by the Call if the film drew from any Delaware political figures for the film’s gags and twists, Wilkinson answered that the “apolitical” film was “more of a dig at all politicians than any one family or party.” Wilkinson pointed out that the film also spoofed the Brandywine arts scene and the area’s “theater of wealth” for its comedic themes. Despite parodying the Brandywine area, Wilkinson told the Call that local partners he approached were enthusiastic to work on and be featured in the movie, including the Talleyville Fire Company and the Wilmington Police Department.
Death on the Brandywine also premiered in Lewes, but the Middletown event marked the in-state screening closest to the Brandywine area. Wilkinson said that he hopes enthusiasm around the movie’s release, as well as the recently-signed tax credit program, attracts more business from the film industry to the First State.
The movie will make a wide streaming debut on July 16th on the Amazon, Apple, and Fandango at Home digital platforms.