Shoot from the Hip: Rise of the Phantom
World Premiere of “Shoot from the Hip: Rise of the Phantom” Set to Light Up Encino
ENCINO, CA – The San Fernando Valley is about to get a major dose of cinematic glamour. On Thursday, October 2, 2025, the Laemmle Town Center 5 in Encino will host the star-studded world premiere of the highly anticipated action film, “Shoot from the Hip: Rise of the Phantom.” The event promises to be a vibrant gathering of Hollywood legends, cult film icons, and the filmmaking talent behind this new indie spectacle.
The evening will begin with a red carpet affair at 6:00 PM, offering press and fans a chance to see the cast and celebrity guests. The film will screen at 7:30 PM.
A Cast of Cult Classics and Rising Stars
The premiere will bring together an impressive ensemble from the film, including award-winning filmmaker and lead actor Jimmy Drain (Realm of Shadows), Australian action legend Vernon Wells (Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior, Commando), and the formidable Dawna Lee Heising (The Job). They will be joined by co-stars Bob Bagnall, Natasha Coppola-Shalom, and Eric Cartwright.
The guest list reads like a who’s who of beloved genre cinema, ensuring a night filled with nostalgia and recognition. Expected to grace the red carpet are:
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Kathy Garver, famed for her role in The Ten Commandments and voice work in One Hundred and One Dalmatians.
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Hank Garrett (Three Days of the Condor) and Susan Lanier (Wes Craven’s The Hills Have Eyes).
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Cult director and actor Dustin Ferguson (Spider Baby) and former child star Mimi Gibson.
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Yan Birch from Wes Craven’s The People Under the Stairs and Suzanne Von Schaack (Tootsie).
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Noted filmmakers like David Baughn and producers Julie Ann Ream and Joseph Williamson will also be in attendance, alongside a roster of talent from television and music, including Vida Ghaffari (The Mindy Project) and chart-topping artist James Darius.
Behind the Scenes of a Genre Gem
Produced by Joseph Williamson (known for his work on House on Haunted Hill), “Shoot from the Hip: Rise of the Phantom” is positioned as a love letter to action and indie filmmaking. The production boasts an experienced crew, including Emmy-nominated makeup artist Joycelyne Lew and noted artist Joanne Cervelli.
The gathering of such a diverse and respected group of artists highlights the collaborative spirit of the independent film community and signals that “Shoot from the Hip” is a project with significant buzz.
This premiere is more than just a screening; it’s a celebration of perseverance and passion for filmmaking. It’s a night where the icons of cinema’s past meet the dynamic voices of its present, all united by the magic of a new story hitting the big screen.
*The World Premiere of “Shoot from the Hip: Rise of the Phantom” is on Thursday, October 2, 2025. Press check-in is at 5:30 PM, with the Red Carpet beginning at 6:00 PM at the Laemmle Town Center 5, 17200 Ventura Blvd, Encino, CA. Media inquiries should be directed to Joe.Williamson76@yahoo.com.

