By GAGE WILSON
for Glasgow News 1
In a town named Redemption, reformed gunslinger Keller and mad genius Ben are guided by spiritual leader Jericho toward vindication. As they confront their violent pasts, their newfound peace is threatened by the return of violence and revenge.
This is the premise of Gunslingers, a 2025 production filmed in Barren, Hart, and Edmonson counties, made possible by the efforts of the Southern Kentucky Film Commission and local tourist organizations.
“They got to town last January and filmed through the very beginning of April,” McNett said. “It was very hectic, but that’s normal for a movie set.”
Some of the frenzy, she said, came from the tight schedule of one of the film’s stars, Nicholas Cage.
“He was only on set for two days, so he had to get all of his stuff done very quickly,” McNett said. “We wanted to wrap up his scenes and get him out of town before people realized he was here — for his safety— so he wouldn’t be harassed or feel uncomfortable.”
The production employed dozens of local residents over its six-week shoot, with cast and crew staying and dining locally.
Cave City Tourist and Convention Commission Director Jennifer McNett was invited to a private screening of the movie in Los Angeles, California. The film was screened on April 10 at the Lionsgate private screening room.
She said local viewers will easily recognize familiar spots throughout the region — especially those acquainted with Gun Town Mountain.
Some features were added for the film, including a few new structures.
“For the most part, they used the buildings that were already there,” McNett said. “But a church was built for the movie, and we added a little creek and a pond up there for a baptism scene.”
Though the movie is now available for streaming, McNett and her team are working to bring a local screening to Barren County.
“We’ll have to wait until it’s out of theaters before Lionsgate will even consider a showing here,” she explained. “But we’re really pushing for it. We’re willing to pay the fee and do whatever it takes to make it happen.”
When asked if there were any upcoming projects the public should watch for, McNett confirmed there’s more to come.
“Absolutely. The same director [Brian Skiba] who worked on Gunslingers is developing another film here in the area. They’re currently scouting locations, and we’ll be posting casting calls on our socials as soon as they’re ready.”
Cave City Tourist and Convention Commission Director Jennifer McNett was invited to a private screening of the movie “Gunslingers” held in Los Angeles, California. Photo courtesy of Southern Kentucky Film Commission
