I went to see the movie "Jake's Corner" (filmed right here in Gila County) last night with my husband and son. They made me do it. I really didn't want to.... but what a nice surprise!
I'm married to a self-described "wanna-be" cowboy and the toughest cop that ever walked a beat in South Phoenix. Retired now, of course, but was pretty macho in his day. We live just 10 miles up the road in Payson, AZ, so we've eaten a lot of steaks and drank a lot of Jack at Jake's Corner Bar.
So when the film crew was scouring Payson trying to find extras for a movie they were filming at Jake's Corner Bar and I was approached, I said "NO WAY!". However, those who did say yes have a memory of being part of a really cute family-friendly movie.
Independent film writer/director, Jeff Santo, did a great job capturing the spirit of Jake's Corner Bar.
Jake's Corner is a gathering place for those who have been battered by life abandoned by love, knocked down, stepped on and generally forgotten. It's also a stopping off place for travelers just passing through. But those who call it home have found comfort and rest in this family of miss-fits that make up the "Corner".
Johnny Dunn, Richard Tyson, is a pro ball player who looses his parents in a plane crash. As a result he loses his interest in both the game of football and life and drops out and runs Jake's Corner Bar.
Johnny's sister and brother-in-law are later killed in a car crash and leave their young son homeless. Of course Uncle Johnny takes him in and discovers that losing parents is tragic but uses it to bring healing to everyone at the "Corner".
If you want to see the real Jake's Corner, drive 60 miles north of Scottsdale on Hwy. 87, turn south onto Hwy 188 and go just 3 miles to Jake's Corner. If you ride your bike up, you'll fit in perfectly. And don't dress up, you'll look conspicuous.
As they say, truth is stranger than fiction. So expect to be delighted watching some real life characters...and ask Sylvia (she's been cooking there 15 years) to make you one of those French dip sandwiches and wash it down with whatever makes you happy. But don't blink when you drive up or you'll miss it. Population, 45.
Sandra Scott, REALTOR
Four Seasons Realty
Payson, AZ 85541
928-978-9047
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