DATE: Sept. 13,2005
Rutland's Edgewood Studios has carved out a niche making special effects-driven movies that seem bigger than what you'd expect from their modest budgets.
Adding a little extra muscle to their latest production -- former professional wrestler Joanie Laurer. Known to her fans as "Chyna."
Chyna: I will be happy when I get my Oscar or star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
In "Illegal Aliens" she plays a violent visitor from outer space bent on protecting her home planet. She tangles with Anna Nicole Smith. Sure makes pro wrestling seem normal.
Chyna: You can't take yourself too seriously.
The sci-fi spoof is a departure for Edgewood -- best known for its disaster, action, and horror movies.
Dave Giancola: 23:11: It's not so much a movie, but more or less a cinematic traffic accident. I mean, it's Chyna versus Anna Nicole Smith. How could you not watch?
COMPANY: WCAXX TV -Vermont
AUTHOR: AF Grant
Jack Thurston: 26:41: We wanted to talk to the movie's co-star, Anna Nicole Smith. But her publicist said she just wasn't feeling well.
Dave Giancola: The thing about Anna Nicole Smith is that you can't tell when she's in character or just being herself.
Jack Thurston: That's a good thing? A cinematic traffic accident?
Dave Giancola: Yeah I think so.
Dave Giancola: 23:45: The film speaks on the deterioration of American culture, TV, and movies.)) "Illegal Aliens" continues shooting for the next week. Jack Thurston, Channel 3 News, in Rutland.