Bremerton, a city known for its shipyards and scenic beauty, is now gaining recognition as the backdrop for an indie film that’s capturing hearts across the country. Dead Dear High a modern take on carpe diem is making its way through national film festivals and will soon return home to the Roxy Theater for a special screening during the West Sound film festival.
The film, which follows a high school slam poetry team in the aftermath of a tragic event, began as a play inspired by the themes of Dead Poets Society. Producer Joshua Roark and director Jo Rochelle transformed the idea into a screenplay that explores trauma, healing, and the power of poetry. The couple, both educators, brought their passion for teaching and storytelling to the project, creating a film that resonates with authenticity.
The allure of Bremerton
Roark’s initial visit to Bremerton sparked the idea of setting the film in the city. Captivated by the city’s aesthetic and the surrounding natural beauty, he knew it was the perfect location. The film was shot in and around Bremerton, with local landmarks serving as key settings. Olympic College campus stood in for the high school, and Evergreen Rotary Park and the Roxy Theater also made appearances.
Local talent played a significant role in the production. High school students were cast as extras and performed in the choir for a critical scene. Evan Brown, a studio teacher during the film’s production, worked with the young actors, providing them with a unique learning experience. Rochelle, who has taught 6th grade English, appreciated having young people on the set, emphasizing the film’s focus on youth and their experiences.
A love letter to Bremerton
The film’s creators see it as a celebration of Bremerton and its community. Amanda Brott, a third-generation Bremerton resident and the film’s set decorator, hopes the movie will highlight the deeper aspects of the city. Brown described the film as a love letter to Bremerton capturing the city’s unique vibe and universal appeal.
The film has already made an impact at national festivals, including the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Film Festival, the Bentonville Film Festival, and South by Southwest in Austin, Texas. Rochelle and Roark are proud of the shots that showcase Bremerton’s beauty and the community’s spirit. The film’s themes of resilience and hope, presented with a lighthearted tone, have resonated with audiences.
The West Sound Film Festival
The West Sound Film Festival, now in its ninth year, will host the film’s homecoming screening at the Roxy Theater on Friday, August 7, at 6:20 p.m. Both Rochelle and Roark will be present for the event. The festival, running from August 7 to August 9, will feature films at both the Roxy Theatre and Seefilm Cinemas. For more information and a full list of films and showtimes, visit .
