Royal Oak Native Directs Coming-of-Age Film "The Kings Of Summer"

ROYAL OAK, Mich. (WWJ) - Local audiences can soon get a sneak peek at a coming-of-age film directed by a Royal Oak native.

For "Kings of Summer" Director Jordan Vogt-Roberts, the movie is reminiscent of his younger years.

"I'm very much drawing from hanging out with my friends in Royal Oak; you know, what adolescence was to me," Vogt-Roberts said.

The movie tells the story of three teen-age boys who run away from home and build a house in the woods, an adventure Vogt-Roberts said he would have likely taken up a decade ago. "The core of it is really just what it is to be 14 and 15, and so much of my experience as a 14 and 15-year-old walking around at night, and causing trouble and creating your own fun," he added.

"The Kings of Summer" premiered to rave reviews at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival. The movie opens in select theaters on May 31st, but you can catch a preview of it on Thursday, May 16th, at the Emagine Theatre in Royal Oak. The screening will benefit The Detroit Creativity Project. Vogt-Roberts will host. A small number of tickets are still available and benefit the charity.  Click here for more info on the screening and to purchase tickets.

ABOUT THE DETROIT CREATIVITY PROJECT

The Detroit Creativity Project was founded in 2011 by a group of L.A.-based actors, writers, directors and musicians. All have roots in Detroit and many performed there on The Second City stage. The Detroit Creativity Project (DCP) and YArts are collaborating to offer comedy improvisational training to Detroit middle and high school students. This training has benefits off the stage. Improv students develop communication and problem solving skills, and build confidence. This 10-week program is offered free-of-charge by working artists with backgrounds in improvisation and arts education.