Local Man Makes Feature Film Debut

Camp a movie that tells the story of an abused and neglected child, will debut at Bow Tie Cinemas in Annapolis on Friday, and a familiar face will be among the stars of the movie.

Michael Mattera, formerly of Annapolis and Riva, stars in the movie, which is his first feature film. And while Mattera is excited to be landing his first lead role, it's the subject of the movie that really inspires him.

Camp is based on director Jacob Roebuck experiences during his involvement in a program called Royal Family Kids Camp. The program offers a camp for abused and neglected kids.

In the film, Mattera plays Ken Matthews, a self-absorbed investment banker who volunteers at one of the camps to impress a potential new client. Mattera’s character is then paired up with one of the most troubled kids at the camp.

“Over the course of the week I learn about this kid and what he has gone though, and it becomes a story about how we change each other,” Mattera said. “It was just a pleasure to be a part of and it is for a great cause.”

Mattera said half of the film’s ticket sales will go directly back to Royal Family Kids Camp.

Now that Mattera is living in Los Angeles and appearing in feature films, he is a long way from the town he grew up in. Mattera attended Spalding High School and grew up in Annapolis and Riva. His mom still lives in Riva.

During his career, Mattera has worked on a few short films, done stand-up comedy, worked on a few commercials and wrote for the VH1 TV show Best Night Ever. He said he is extremely grateful to have finally landed a lead role.

“It was amazing and I learned so much,” Mattera said. “The excitement and camaraderie that comes with all these creative visions coming together for one common goal is just a pleasure to be around.”

Finding success in Hollywood isn’t an easy task. Before arriving in Los Angeles, Mattera spent time in New York. He said the key to finding success in Hollywood, or anywhere really, is patience and determination.

“You just have to keep your head on. Fame and success never ever happens overnight,” Mattera said. “You just have to keep believing in yourself and hope someone else does too—until you get a chance to prove it."

For more on "Camp," including a trailer for the film, click here.