Clearwater Butcher Shop Serves As Set For Upcoming Sci-Fi Film

CLEARWATER, FL -- It was a phone call the father and son small business owners never expected to receive.

Owned by Rudy Genao and his father, Rolando, Marv's Mart at 1225 Franklin Circle is a modest butcher shop specializing in custom-cut, quality meats. It's been a staple in the community for more than 50 years.

The Genaos' are well-known to residents who pop into the butcher shop to pick up a couple of porterhouse steaks for the grill or need a hard-to-find ingredient for a special recipe like conch meat, frog legs or gator fillets.

But the butcher shop is about to reach a much broader audience -- on the big screen.

The Genaos have agreed be featured in a film now shooting in the Tampa/Clearwater area called "The Connection."

The film set scouts thought the unremarkable meat market was the perfect venue for the sci-fi/action film about a couple of strangers who suddenly become remarkable when they receive unimaginable powers. Their powers unite them as they struggle to overcome insurmountable odds.

A collaboration of the independent film companies, N-Take films and Inspiration Films, the production crew includes director/writer Nicholas Naylor and actor/producer Rod Grant.

Pre-production began in February and the film is scheduled for release in early 2020.

While Rudy Genao said he loves owning the meat market and serving his customers, he admits that the cameras and crew have brought a thrill to his daily routine.

“This is an exciting thing that's helping the local community," he said.

Naylor shares his enthusiasm.

"I am really excited about this film and bringing it to audiences,” Naylor said. “I think it's going to be a great experience. It's a great sci-fi/action film that I hope audiences will enjoy."

Naylor and Grant are longtime residents who say they are proud to be a part of the burgeoning Florida film industry.

"I am equally excited to be working with owners of local businesses such as Marv’s Mart,” Grant said. “We want to help them and help promote Film Florida as well.”

"The Connection" will be in post-production in August and ready for submission to the Gasparilla, Sunscreen, Sundance and other film festivals.

Based in Clearwater, Inspiration Films is an independent film company. Its last film, "King Charles," was distributed internationally. Other films include "Gunn Highway," "PawnZ," "Mr. Engagement," "100 Tears," "Brainjacked," "Experiment 7," "Illusions" and "The Quiet Place."

For more behind-the-scenes photos of the filming, visit The Connection Facebook page.