A Green Story - An American Dream

Van Vlahakis with daughter Kelly Vlahakis-Hanks

A Green Story (a biopic) is a rare glimpse inside the politics of the corporate world of the grocery business through the eyes of Van Vlahakis. You may not know his name, but chances are you’ve seen, or used his Award-Winning – truly all-natural cleaning products (found on most grocery store shelves). Vlahakis, known to most as Mr. Van, is the founder and CEO of Earth Friendly Products – one of the first (1967) company’s to produce safe and respectful cleaning products.

Vlahakis left Greece five decades ago with twenty-two dollars in his pocket in hopes of finding a better future for him and his family - an American Dream. A Green Story centers on the modern day Vlahakis (played by Ed O'Ross), who is diagnosed with cancer and given only a few months to live. During this time, Vlahakis reflects on his early life as an immigrant (played by George Finn) during the 1950's and ultimately decides to push himself to the limit by closing one final business deal that is the basis for his company's success.

Van Vlahakis, Ed O'Ross,
Kelly Vlahakis-Hanks, George Finn

I caught up Mr. Van and his daughter Kelly (Vice President of the company – played by Shannon Elizabeth) recently at Expo West 2013, as they gear up for the release of A Green Story in national markets on May 24th (Cinema Village in New York City; Cinemart Cinemas in Forest Hills, NY; Laemmle’s Music Hall, Beverly Hills). Some of the actors, the director/writer of the film (who is also one of the producers) Nika Agiashvili, were all at the company's booth to support the films launch.

I had the chance to speak with Ed O’Ross briefly about his role … here’s what he had to say about playing the part.

KA: What inspired you to want to be involved with the film?

O’Ross: I think Van’s story is really interesting. There are a lot of elements that really make this biopic work. Van grew up in Germany in World War II around concentration camps, came to America as an immigrant, lived in homeless shelters, put himself through school, became a chemist, and despite all of his challenges created an amazingly responsible and successful Earth (and people/animal) Friendly company.”

KA: What was it like to portray Van's character?

O’Ross: “When playing a living character it’s always important to experience the essence of the person. I read the script, watched videos of him, but it wasn’t until I met Van and walked through his (solar operated) plant, that I really felt his spirit. That’s where I met the spirit of the man, rather than the myth of his image – and was honored to play the part."

Other cast members include: Malcolm McDowell, Billy Zane, Roger Bart, Annabella Sciorra Alessandra Torresani, Alexis Georgoulis, Louis Mandylor and others.

Please support this revealing and inspiring movie scheduled for release this month! This is a great story, and beautifully done ... It is a must see film and one to share with your friends and family.

If you live in LA come out and be part of the opening night debut - there will be lots of fun surprises. Please Like them on Facebook to learn more about great upcoming contests, giveaways and possible celebrity appearances. www.facebook.com/AGreenStoryTheMovie

Watch the trailer at  www.agreenstorythemovie.com
Distributed by Indican Pictures - www.indicanpictures.com
Learn more about Earth Friendly Products - www.ecos.com