The Elmhurst Quarry was originally a source of limestone for local builders but was converted into a flood control facility in the 90s. The deep pit has captured the imagination of many residents over the years and a former resident – Ian Martin – filmed part of his first feature film “Cooke Concrete” there.
“Like most kids growing up in Elmhurst, I’ve always been intrigued by careers,” Martin said. “I had used a quarry as a location in the script and thought it would be great to film there, but I wasn’t sure it was possible. I contacted the county and we were able to make it happen. “
Martin describes the 2018 film as a low-key comedic mystery about a slacker college student who comes home for the summer and, for reasons he doesn’t quite understand, goes in search of a local recluse. One of the places the main character is looking for is the career with his ex-girlfriend.
Martin said the night shoot exceeded his expectations.
“It was such a cool place. We tried to capture as many great photos as possible. We really wanted to do justice to the location and I feel like we got some really good pictures there. We are not the only project to have filmed in the career, but I think we have perhaps the most interesting images.”
Other projects that have been filmed at Elmhurst Quarry include “Chicago PD” and “Chicago Fire”.
The film was a labor of love for Martin which raised most of the budget on Kickstarter. The Kickstarter campaign was helped by his selection as a Kickstarter Staff Pick as well as the addition of Lil BUB – a famous and selfless cat – to the cast.
“I went to Indiana University with Mike Bridavsky who was Lil BUB’s human,” Martin said. “We found a way to give BUB an appearance in the movie. It was really nice to have their support and I think his appearance is a fun time for the many Lil BUB fans.”
In addition to the quarry, the film was shot throughout Illinois and parts of Michigan.
“We had a lot of slots for an independent micro-budget,” Martin said. “We filmed next to Salt Creek and along Prairie Path. We filmed in the homes of very kind and patient friends. We found a few places on Airbnb. But the quarry was definitely the highlight for me. I’ve always wanted to film there and it didn’t disappoint.”
“Cooke Concrete” is available to stream on tuberent or buy on Amazon Prime Videoand borrow from Houpla.
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