Car Productions has announced the World Premiere of “THUNDER HILL: Long Shots On A Short Track.” Austin filmmaker Merle Bertrand’s action-packed documentary which explores the passion and thrills of hometown stock car racing. The film will premiere at 2:00 PM, (doors open at 1:30), on Sunday, April 23 at the Downtown Alamo Drafthouse Cinema (409 Colorado) in Austin, Texas.
Through interviews and archival photographs set against the exciting spectacle of Saturday night stock car racing, “THUNDER HILL…” introduces us to several drivers who race regularly at Thunder Hill Raceway in Kyle, Texas. Far removed from NASCAR’s glamour, these hometown stock car heroes, like thousands of others across the country, race for a few hundred bucks, a set of racing tires, or maybe even just a trophy and a cold beer. Whether they’re hoping to land a Nextel Cup ride or just enjoying thrilling diversions from their day jobs, these semi-pro speed demons share their deep passion for racing in “THUNDER HILL: Long Shots On A Short Track.”
The premiere will also double as a benefit, as Bertrand and co-producer Kristina Weber are donating a portion of the event’s proceeds to the Victory Junction Gang Camp. Founded by NASCAR driver Kyle Petty, (son of Richard Petty), in honor of his son Adam, who was killed during practice for a race, the camp is a free summer retreat for chronically ill children. The filmmakers are also donating part of the proceeds to Thunder Hill Raceway’s Drivers’ Points Fund.
Tickets are available for $4.50 at the door, although it’s recommended that tickets be purchased in advance through the Alamo Drafthouse online ticketing service (for a slight additional fee) in order to guarantee a seat.
For more info, visit the Alamo Drafthouse website.
