Who says you can never go home again?
On Wednesday night, the 2022 Apple Studios film “The Greatest Beer Run Ever” will return to the Jersey City park that became the set for several scenes.
Organizers of the screening are encouraging people to “bring chairs and friends.” Popcorn will be served.
The Greatest Beer Run Ever stars Zac Efron and Russell Crowe and was cowritten by Oscar winner Peter Farrelly (of Dumb and Dumber, Shallow Hal, There’s Something About Mary and the Green Book). It is based on the true story told in the bestselling book The Greatest Beer Run Ever: A Memoir of Friendship, Loyalty and War that was written by Joanna Molloy and John “Chickie” Donohue. It recounts Donohue’s journey from New York to Vietnam in 1967 to share a beer with childhood friends who were engaged in combat there.
In November 2021, Van Vorst Park was turned into a facsimile of a Vietnam-war era park for the film shoot.
Marc Wesson, the park’s chief caretaker, remembers the 2021 film shoot well. “They made every effort to avoid damage to the park and it’s gardens. It was fascinating to be up-close and watch how a set is staged, actors are placed, and the action is filmed.”
Wesson credited Stephanie Daniels from the Jersey City Film Division. He said that both the park and community groups were given a donation for the shoot, which was used for plants and events in the park.
When: Wednesday, August 16, 2023 from 8:00 pm to10:15 pm
Where: Van Vorst Park (Montgomery St. at Barrow St.)