Vanderbilt gets a taste of Hollywood for a day.

by Joan Brasher
photo by Daniel Dubois

On Sunday, April 6, students may have been surprised, and a little confused, to see a large sign reading “Northwestern” posted on Vanderbilt’s Calhoun Hall.

No less intriguing were the clean-scrubbed men and women dressed with exquisite detail in 1940s garb seated near Kirkland Hall in director’s chairs, patiently enduring endless dabbing by make-up artists while a bevy of production personnel readied lights and props.

The reason for all the commotion? Billy: The Early Years, a biopic based on the life of the Rev. Billy Graham, set up shop on Vanderbilt’s campus for a day of shooting scenes which actually depict three other academic institutions - Princeton University, Northwestern Bible College and Wheaton College.

The film, which is being shot primarily in nearby Watertown, Tenn., is directed by acclaimed actor, director and singer Robby Benson. The independently produced film, which will be in theaters nationwide this fall, explores Graham’s decision to become an evangelical preacher.

Jennie McClendon, administrative director for Vanderbilt’s Division of Public Affairs, landed a role as an extra in the film.

Posted 05/01/08