The Dark Carnival Film Festival in Bloomington Indiana presented the Best Cinematography award to San Diego-based 3D Production studio PassmoreLab for its just-released 3D documentary The Extreme Nature of Bats. Called the Sundance of horror Dark Carnival was named one of the top 25 film festivals by MovieMaker Magazine. Hosted by AMC Monstervision’s horror alum and syndicated film critic Joe Bob Briggs the three-day festival culminated with the awards ceremony which included 13 different categories. Shot in Texas Romania Belize Africa and Mexico the film which explores the truths myths and dark legends that have stalked the worlds only flying mammal closely examines three bat species; the free-tailed bat the megabat and the infamous vampire bat. It takes an in-depth look at bats as unique and important animals but because of fear and misconceptions associated with them throughout history they are also some of the most misunderstood animals in the world. The 35-minute documentary was directed by Greg Passmore president of PassmoreLab and handled all aspects of 3D production out of San Diego. “It is truly an honor to accept this award for cinematography ” says Passmore. “Three bat species four jungles numerous caves and five countries later – it is especially humbling to be recognized for being able to put it all together and see the support for this film.” Using Red camera technology The Extreme Nature of Bats took six months to shoot due largely to the travel required to capture these bats in their natural habitats in some of the largest bat caves in the world. Production wrapped earlier this year off the coast of Africa on a primitive island in the Indian Ocean netting the crew some never-before-seen-footage of bats. “This film is far from a typical bats documentary and continues to create a lot of audience interest ” says Steve Glum PassmoreLab’s head of branding and distribution. “It’s thrilling to see that as we ready it for release.” Dark Carnival Film Festival www.darkcarnivalfilmfest.com Passmorelab www.passmorelab.com
