Dennis Connors, a New Jersey born-and-raised actor who cut his teeth doing theatre around the state, plays Kyle, a computer programer, who, along with four other people, wins a trip down the Colorado River in the horror-slasher film The Canyonlands. The contest winners soon become separated and lost in the labyrinth of canyons, and soon discover they aren’t alone in the remote terrain. The film is available on DVD and Video On Demand. 

The Canyonlands stars Stephanie Barkley, Marqus Bobesich, Wayne Charles Baker, Dennis Connors, Sheldon Brown, Ari Anderson, Lauren Capkanis, Larry Yazzie, and Jesse Buck-Brennan. The Canyonlands was written, directed, and produced by Brendan Devane of Sadieland Productions. The film is being distributed by Freestyle Digital Media in North America. Skywalker Sound provided the post-production sound editing. American Jam band, Umphrey’s McGee produced the score. Post Mango provided the special effects.  

The Canyonlands was filmed outside of Moab, Utah, and provided its own obstacles to overcome. Cast and crew stayed at Base Camp Adventure Lodge, which was located quite a drive or hike away from the main town. The production often had issues transporting the essentials out to the lodge, and internet access was scarce, so the cast and crew quickly became close. “It honestly was all worth it,” says Dennis. “The footage that we were able to get was so beautiful and the best part is that it wasn’t green screened! Getting offline also allowed me to concentrate on my work and relaxation.” 

From a young age, Sayreville native Dennis Connors had a passion for acting, singing, and performing. Dennis credits the community for his success: “They say it takes a village, but for me, it really took a county. Middlesex County gave me a real chance. I started with my first play at Kids-in-the-Park in Woodbridge, my first formal acting training was through Arts Middle School, and my first time performing for thousands of people was at Plays-in-the-Park, all programs funded by Middlesex County. This is the power of funding the arts and arts education.” 

Dennis moved away and earned an acting degree from Emerson College in Boston, MA. It was there that he met Kurt Nakanishi, the editor of The Canyonlands. Kurt and Dennis became friends quickly as Kurt became Dennis’ big brother in the fraternity Zeta Phi Eta. In 2019, Dennis received a call from Kurt that would change his life. A week after that call, Dennis flew out to Utah for a month of shooting. There he was able to reunite with numerous Emerson College alumni, lovingly referred to as “The Emerson Mafia”, who worked on the cast and crew, including Sheldon Brown, Lauren Capkanis, and Ari Anderson. 

The Canyonlands’ release comes at a time when the future of Hollywood is uncertain, especially as COVID keeps people out of movie theater seats. However, it’s clear that people are still seeking out new stories through streaming services, which bodes well for the film and theatrical industries. Actors Equity Association President Kate Shindle has called for the union rank-in-file to help with the vaccination roll-out. Dennis responds, “Our union has the capability to make a big difference. I am ready to be a part of the solution. Once we get through this pandemic, I have no doubt that film and theatre will be roaring!”