The world of independent filmmaking is abuzz with the premiere of Hacked, a horror-comedy that boasts a talented young cast, including West Liberty-Salem high school senior Collin Thompson. As the leading man in this gripping story, Collin is taking his talents to new heights, proving that the fruits of his labor are ripe for the picking. Filming for Hacked began last year in Los Angeles and wrapped up in Tampa, Fla., this January, marking the culmination of a whirlwind experience for Collin and his castmates. Under the direction of Shane Brady, the film follows the chilling tale of a family beset by a cybercriminal known as “The Chameleon,” who not only steals their life savings but also infiltrates every aspect of their digital existence. Collin plays Freddy, one of the family’s children, alongside a talented ensemble cast that includes Chandler Riggs (The Walking Dead), Owen Atlas (Little Evil), and Augie Duke (Mayans M.C.). As part of his growing success, Collin recently kicked off his media tour with a visit to arizona state University, where he has been accepted into the prestigious film program. He plans to major in Film Production and Marketing, a perfect next step in his journey as he continues to pursue his passion for acting and storytelling on a professional level. The opportunity to study under the best in the industry will undoubtedly provide Collin with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the competitive world of cinema. Balancing school, athletics, and a demanding film schedule was no small feat for the West Liberty-Salem senior, who shared his experiences with enthusiasm. “It’s been an incredible experience,” Collin said. “Being on set, working with talented actors and crew, and seeing the whole process come together taught me so much. I’m excited to see where this leads.” His dedication to his craft is inspiring, and his journey is a testament to the power of hard work and perseverance. With filming complete, Hacked is now making its way through the film festival circuit, an essential step for independent films seeking distribution. The film’s premiere at a Tampa, Fla., festival over spring break showcased the movie alongside major projects, including the latest film from John Travolta. Film festivals provide critical exposure and opportunities for films like Hacked to secure deals with streaming platforms such as Netflix. If acquired, the film will then receive its official rating and reach a global audience. Collin and the cast attended the film’s premiere at a Tampa, Fla., festival over spring break, where the movie was showcased alongside major projects, including the latest film from John Travolta. This experience was a fitting conclusion to the film’s production, as it marked the first time the cast and crew had seen the finished product on the big screen. The excitement and anticipation surrounding the film’s release are palpable, and it’s clear that Hacked is poised to make a lasting impact in the world of independent cinema. “West Liberty-Salem is proud to celebrate Collin’s accomplishments and cheer him on as he pursues his passion for acting. His dedication is an inspiration to fellow students and a reminder that with hard work and perseverance, even the biggest dreams are within reach,” district officials said. The community is rallying behind Collin as he takes his next steps in his career, and it’s clear that his journey is far from over. With Hacked and his acceptance into the prestigious film program, Collin is poised to take his place among the stars, shining brightly in the world of independent filmmaking.
Collin Thompson: The Making of a Rising Star
The Rise to Fame: From High School to Hollywood
• Collin Thompson, a senior at West Liberty-Salem High School, has been making waves in the independent film scene with his starring role in Hacked, a horror-comedy directed by Shane Brady. • The film follows the chilling tale of a family beset by a cybercriminal known as “The Chameleon,” who not only steals their life savings but also infiltrates every aspect of their digital existence. Collin’s journey to the big screen began in high school, where he developed a passion for acting and storytelling. His hard work and dedication paid off, earning him a starring role in Hacked. With his acceptance into the prestigious film program at Arizona state university, Collin is poised to take his career to the next level, majoring in Film Production and Marketing.
Collin’s Achievements: From High School to Hollywood
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- Starring role in Hacked, a horror-comedy directed by Shane Brady
- Acceptance into the prestigious film program at Arizona State University
- Media tour, including a visit to Arizona State University
- Attended the film’s premiere at a Tampa, Fla., festival over spring break
Collin’s Road to Success: Balancing School, Athletics, and a Demanding Film Schedule
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- Balancing school, athletics, and a demanding film schedule was no small feat for the West Liberty-Salem senior
- “It’s been an incredible experience,” Collin shared. I’m excited to see where this leads.”
The Future of Independent Cinema: Hacked’s Journey to the Big Screen
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- Hacked is now making its way through the film festival circuit, an essential step for independent films seeking distribution
- The film’s premiere at a Tampa, Fla., festival over spring break showcased the movie alongside major projects, including the latest film from John Travolta
- Film festivals provide critical exposure and opportunities for films like Hacked to secure deals with streaming platforms such as Netflix
- If acquired, the film will then receive its official rating and reach a global audience
“West Liberty-Salem is proud to celebrate Collin’s accomplishments and cheer him on as he pursues his passion for acting.
