Filming of 'We Are Marshall' Could Have Lasting Impact in West Virginia

Renewed focus on the tragic plane crash that shocked the Huntington and Tri-State area in the early 70's may likely spur future development within the twenty-first century, not only from a tourism and economic development standpoint, but culturally as well.

It appears that the December 2006 release of "We Are Marshall" will frame West Virginia in a very positive manner, highlighting the strength of its people, and downplaying stereotypical views of the state. Director McG and actors Matthew McConaughey and Matthew Fox approached the story in a very reverent fashion and took time to learn from and involve community members.

This film will honor the Marshall University football players and staff that perished, and at the same time invigorate a sense of local pride. It will acknowledge West Virginians as real people and not fictitious hillbillies. The limitations often perceived about the state are not as real as they appear, and in many cases they are a significant by-product of early twentieth century depictions of Appalachians as backwoods, uneducated, and unmotivated. I hope that this real story will remind West Virginians of how strong they can be, and help us move forth accordingly in all endeavors, be it political, economic, or social.

Thank you Rick Lee for providing a glimpse of the filming process, it certainly adds to the excitement.