New war movie to debut at convention

New war movie to debut at convention

A private screening of "Approaching Midnight," a movie about a young veteran returning from war who discovers corruption and death in his hometown, will be shown Aug. 26 at 7:30 p.m. in the George R. Brown Convention Center, General Assembly Theater, Level 3. Admission is free.

Sam Logan Khaleghi — whose family moved from Iran to Detroit when he was very young — wrote, acted, directed and produced the movie. He had nearly 60 Department of Michigan Legionnaires contribute to the 86-minute film as extras or consultants. In fact, Legionnaires wear their Legion uniforms during a scene involving the honor guard.

The catalyst of connecting the Legion with the filmmaker was movie-co-star Michelle Lynne Balser, the granddaughter of Staff Sgt. William Genette, who was a POW during World War II. Balser visited Oldenburg Post 216 in Milford, Mich., as a young girl.

"Approaching Midnight" will make its public world premiere Aug. 30 in Detroit. Part of the proceeds from that screening will be donated to Post 216. American Legion posts may purchase a copy of the film for one-time event screening as part of a fundraising effort.

www.montereymedia.com/approachingmidnight