Actor Wes ready for film launch

Wes Martin, 36, from Stafford, is one of the lead stars in Crispy's Curse, a new comedy filmed in Staffordshire which is set to premier on August 12 at the Mitchell Arts Theatre in Hanley.

The movie is directed by John Williams, whose last film The Slayers was picked up for distribution by Netflix, with the cast and crew behind Crispy's Curse hoping for more of the same this time.

Its plot revolves around Crispy, a maniacal killer clown, who locals believe is firing up his chainsaw and killing again.

Wes, who also works at The Barbers Shop on Newport Road, Stafford, plays a sceptical detective called Pope, who investigates the crimes with his colleague Detective Moss, played by Dean Ackerman.

The movie features cameos from psychic Derek Acorah and Big Brother series seven winner Pete Bennett.

Speaking of his excitement ahead of the premiere, Wes said: "We had a great time shooting and I think people are really going to like the film, it is something a bit different.

"It is a bit slapstick in places, a bit Laurel and Hardy, it reminds me of Hot Fuzz as well.

"The only downside was I had to grow a handlebar moustache, to fit that detective style.

"My girlfriend wasn't too happy and it was difficult explaining what type of film I was growing it for to people, they assumed it was for something a bit more adult."

Wes says that he has contemplated moving into acting full-time in the future and hopes that Crispy's Curse can be a springboard for that.

His voice-over work has also led him to take on the character of Kitt, the famous car from the Knight Rider series, for a number of television appearances, included the Late Late Show in Ireland.

He said: "With acting and voice over work, you tend to get more offers when people can see a bit of what you have done.

"I feel confident that I could try a number of styles but I really enjoy comedy.

"Hopefully this film will be a success, we have all put a lot of time into it and it certainly deserves some recognition."

To purchase tickets for the premiere of Crispy's Curse, visit www.theodditybox.co.uk