Lost on a Mountain in Maine is a 2024 film based on the true story of Donn Fendler, a 12-year-old boy who, in 1939, gets separated from his family while hiking Mount Katahdin in Maine and endures nine days in the wilderness.
The film follows Donn as he faces the challenges of surviving in the harsh wilderness, including extreme weather, dangerous animals, and hunger.
Directed by Andrew Kightlinger and written by Luke Paradise, the film stars Luke David Blumm as Donn Fendler, Caitlin Fitzgerald and Paul Sparks as his parents, and Ethan Slater in an undisclosed role. The film is scheduled for a limited release on November 1, 2024.
Where Was Lost on a Mountain in Maine Filmed?
While Lost on a Mountain in Maine is set in Maine, it was primarily filmed in the Hudson Valley near Ulster County, New York.
This area was chosen for its similar landscapes, skilled crews, and convenient access to resources like background extras and vintage cars. Key locations included:
- Elka Park and Phoenicia: These areas provided the perfect wooded backdrop to represent Maine’s dense forests. Phoenicia’s lush scenery helped bring Donn Fendler’s survival struggle to life on screen.
- Rosendale and Stone Ridge: Filming in Rosendale and Stone Ridge added variety to the production, with both locations featuring natural and untouched forest settings that were crucial in creating the feeling of a deep, isolating wilderness.
- High Falls and New Paltz: These scenic locations were chosen for scenes requiring varied terrain and bodies of water, essential to portray Fendler’s difficult journey through forests, streams, and rocky landscapes.
- Saugerties and Kingston: Saugerties was home to additional shots and production facilities. Kingston, the area’s largest city, provided crucial support for filming logistics and was likely used for interior scenes, crew coordination, and equipment storage.
The film also benefited from local talent, with Hudson Valley residents cast as extras and historic vehicles, like a 1939 Chevrolet, adding period authenticity.
When Did the Filming of Lost on a Mountain in Maine Take Place?
Filming took place in the summer of 2022, with production spanning July and August. During this time, the Hudson Valley Film Commission assisted with permits, logistics, and location recommendations, instrumental in recreating the 1930s Maine wilderness.
The summer schedule allowed for lush, green landscapes, which helped to capture the atmosphere and natural beauty integral to Donn’s survival journey.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions-
Q: Where did the filming for Lost on a Mountain in Maine take place?
A: Most of the filming was done in New York’s Hudson Valley, with locations like Elka Park, Gardiner, High Falls, Kingston, New Paltz, Phoenicia, Rosendale, Saugerties, and Stone Ridge representing the Maine wilderness.
Q: Why wasn’t the film shot in Maine?
A: While the story takes place in Maine, Hudson Valley’s similar landscapes, skilled local crews, and film-friendly environment made it a practical choice for production.
Q: Who helped with the local casting and crew hiring?
A: Local casting director Heidi Eklund and background casting assistant Amy Hutchings selected hundreds of extras, while Jamie Vermilye helped manage location permits.
Q: When is Lost on a Mountain in Maine releasing?
A: The film is set for national release by Blue Fox Entertainment on 1 November 2024.