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Things to Do Before You Die No. 66
By Amy Selby
Star in a Movie
On most days Dan Batchelor, D.C., splits his time between his successful Roswell, Ga., practice and training for his next sporting competition. Last summer, Batchelor left his everyday routine to answer Hollywood’s call by starring in a movie. Soon audiences will see Batchelor as a World War I assassin in “Against the Wind.” Below, Batchelor shares details from this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Before “Against the Wind,” did you have any previous experience with acting or movies?
I lecture nationally on chiropractic and sports, which has helped with acting, and I have been an actor in a number of small movies when I was a child.
It’s not every day when you hear about big screen opportunities. How did this opportunity present itself?
My brother, Brad Batchelor, a graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic, is an actor, producer and director, as well as a very successful doctor of chiropractic in Boone, N.C. He felt I fit the part of a WWI pilot and international assassin against the opium trade.
Part of the film is shot in Costa Rica, a place we visit frequently. It was convenient to be my brother’s partner in the film due to the convenience of shooting near our home, which is close to the beach and jungle. Most of the crew were also involved as actors since we had to keep the project streamlined and simplified, similar to an efficient office. The only difference was our office was deep in the jungle at times.
What can you tell TCL readers about the movie?
The film takes place from 1916 when the first American pilots began flying biplanes in Europe, to the ’20s in which our characters fight the opium trade as special agents in Malaysia and Costa Rica. The story then moves into the 30s during a time of racial inequality.
What was your role in the film?
I had a supporting role as Sgt. Danny Brown, partner to Captain Alex Jamieson. Our characters were sought-after agents by the first U.S. narcotics division. The sergeant and captain were known for fighting the opium trade their way.
How did you prepare for the role?
As an athlete it was not difficult physically for me even though the fight scenes and treks though the jungle carrying equipment were demanding. I have always studied movies and working with other actors helped me feel the part I played.
Did you have a favorite scene or line from the movie?
As for my favorite scene, I filled in as cameraman in the front seat as my brother Brad flew one of the biplanes over a trestle bridge to bomb it. One of my funny lines was during an opium den shootout when Brad’s character Alex shot a drug lord multiple times at point blank range and my line was, “Did you get him?”
What was the biggest challenge to being a part of this experience?
Travel to various locations was inconvenient, but worth it. The challenge in acting is becoming not just the character, but really being the person you are playing.
Did you bring chiropractic to the set?
Yes, chiropractic is certainly in the movie, but further details cannot be divulged at this time.
What did you learn about yourself throughout this experience?
Being involved in movies, especially a period piece, is like having another life. It is an adventure. It is a way to escape from the small things that really don’t matter and appreciate what our ancestors had to endure.
Has the experience affected your life in any way?
Traveling internationally allowed me to bring chiropractic to those who have never heard of it and allowed me to change their lives.
When can our readers see the film.
The project is still in production and will be completed after the next shoot in Malaysia, early next year. Post-production should be complete by June. I’m not sure when it will be released—it depends on what avenue of distribution Flying Scotsman Productions chooses to use.
For a story synopsis, pictures and more information on the film, visit againstthewindfilm.com
©2006 Today's Chiropractic