Tampa Bay’s Paul Wilson Shines in DEER CAMP ’86, Filmed in St. Pete

by Cory White
0 comments 5 minutes read

It’s time for summer slashers, and the passion project DEER CAMP ’86 is making a significant impact in the genre. Although predominantly shot in Michigan, this indie film also utilized the scenic backdrop of St. Petersburg for several scenes featuring local talent Paul Wilson. Now available for rent or purchase on all major digital platforms, DEER CAMP ‘86 can also be found on DVD and Blu-ray via Amazon and Walmart. Check out the full trailer here.

Set in the fall of 1986, the film follows six friends from Detroit who embark on their annual deer hunting trip up north. However, their adventure takes a horrifying turn when they awaken a terrifying presence, and “the hunters become the hunted.” The cast boasts performances from Noah LaLonde, Jay J. Bidwell, Arthur Cartwright, Brian Michael Raetz, Josh Dominguez, David Lautman, Tina Joy, and Paul Wilson.


Despite working with a limited budget, the dedicated crew behind DEER CAMP ’86 has crafted a film that stands toe-to-toe with major studio releases. “Our film, even with its indie marketing budget, held its own against major studio productions, selling out multiple times in Tampa, Michigan, and even Alaska,” said producer and financier Antonio Morris. “With an 82% score on Rotten Tomatoes, I’m confident we’ll see great success on streaming platforms. People love this movie, and I’ve already greenlit the sequel. That’s how much faith I have in this film, the cast, and the passion that went into creating this modern-day classic.”

According to Paul Guzzo of the Tampa Bay Times, the film crew transformed a church at 2750 Fifth Ave. N. in St. Pete into a police station for Paul Wilson’s final scenes.

DEER CAMP ’86 also shines a light on the disturbing frequency of missing Indigenous women and girls, a theme that has only recently gained wider attention beyond native communities. The filmmakers took great care to authentically represent the Potawatomi Nation, with members of the Ottawa (Little River Band) and Gunn Lake Tribe of the Potawatomi on set daily to ensure cultural accuracy. “This film has already garnered a cult following from its festival premieres and theatrical run,” said Panoramic Pictures CEO Michael Scott. “We’re thrilled to bring this new cult classic into homes. Horror enthusiasts have been eagerly anticipating films like DEER CAMP ’86, and we’re excited to offer this excellent title to fans.”

With a fresh 82% review rating on Rotten Tomatoes and 84% on Fandango, DEER CAMP ’86 is now available on DVD and Blu-ray. Following a month-long theatrical run that reached 133 theaters in 64 markets across 30 states, the film premiered at Screamfest, the 2024 Gasparilla International Film Festival, and the 2024 Dallas International Film Festival to enthusiastic reviews. Theatrical distribution was handled by FilmFrog.

For more information on DEER CAMP ‘86, visit DeerCamp86.com or follow @deercampmovie on Instagram.

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