Filming for Daily Wire Suspended in Montana After Special City Meeting
The city of Livingston, Montana, has placed a temporary halt on the production of the film “Pawn Shop,” produced by Daily Wire and Bonfire Legend, following significant local protests expressing safety concerns. At a special commission meeting held on Saturday, the Livingston City Commission unanimously voted to suspend the production license for Bonfire Pawn Shop LLC, responding to community concerns regarding disruptions to local businesses and the city’s only food bank. The citizens’ grievances included the lack of adequate notice regarding the use of blank gunfire, pyrotechnics, and perilous stunts being filmed in close proximity to residential areas and essential services.
Commissioner Cindy Daniels initiated the motion to suspend the film permit, indicating that a legal review would be undertaken to assess possible amendments, suspensions, or revocations of the permit. The Commission’s decision mandates that the film’s producers return for consideration after 5:00 p.m. on October 5. A media source has reached out to both Daily Wire and Bonfire Legend for further comment regarding the evolving situation.
Since filming commenced, local residents have voiced their opposition to the manner in which the production was carried out. This includes allegations that the filming has involved dangerous stunts without proper advance communication to those living nearby. Notably, the film features a dramatization that references a high-profile incident involving the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency, which has further intensified the negative sentiment.
The local Livingston Food Resource Center has also weighed in on the issue, stating that the ongoing production has exacerbated barriers for clients already struggling to access necessary food resources. The center noted an uptick in obstacles, including road closures and an increased presence of armed security, that have negatively impacted those seeking assistance.
Despite the contentious climate surrounding the filming, Livingston Police Chief Wayne Hard reported that no incidents of violence have been noted, although the department receives daily complaints about the production activities.
Filming was originally slated to continue in downtown Livingston until October 10. The production is not under an IATSE contract and is currently operating under a “conditional start” with SAG-AFTRA. A call sheet has indicated an ensemble cast, featuring notable actors, including Danny Trejo and Harvey Keitel.
The synopsis of “Pawn Shop” describes a narrative centered on a federal agent navigating a chaotic situation in Minneapolis while trapped in a pawn shop with two others, forcing them to confront their fears and beliefs amid a crisis.
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