Modesto grad’s film available on major streaming service. It was inspired by George Lucas
A Modesto High graduate, inspired by George Lucas, has made a film set in the city.
And that movie is currently available to buy or rent on a major streaming platform.
Jerry McKinney, known locally as Tyrone McKinney, wrote, directed and stars in “Angel Vision,” now on Amazon Prime Video.
The movie, which among other things is an homage to Modesto native Lucas and the city’s car and graffiti culture, was shot mostly in Modesto, but also in the Los Angeles area, McKinney said.
“In ‘Angel Vision’, a comedy set in Modesto, Mayate plans to rob a dog buyer but is thwarted by Big Ty Stick and divine forces,” according to the Prime Video website. “Starring Spanky Hayes and AJ Johnson, it’s a blend of sci-fi, action, and humor, underscoring faith and redemption.”
Johnson has since died, “so this is his last movie,” McKinney said.
The 123-minute film is described on the Prime website as action and adventure, but McKinney said it’s also a comedy and about spirituality.
McKinney, who graduated from Modesto High in 1997 and lives in Ceres, said the film is about his character, Big Ty Stick, who is protected by angels.
“Everybody is protected by angels,” McKinney said.
His character tries to help his friends, urging them to stop selling drugs and do better things with their lives, he said. “Some follow the advice and some don’t.”
McKinney said there’s plenty of action, including angels fighting demons and car racing.
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This is his first film, but his other projects include producing videos and a cartoon that airs in Jamaica, he said in a text message. He’s also released a gospel album, “Thanksgiving.”
Among the locations in Modesto for the film was George Lucas Plaza at 17th Street and Downey Avenue, Da Stash Spot on Scenic Drive, California Shooting Sports on Briggsmore Avenue, 209 One Customs Tires and Wheels on Crows Landing Road, Christ Unity Baptist Church on L Street and the former Clarion hotel on Sisk Road, McKinney said.
McKinney said the movie’s racing scenes connect it to Lucas and “American Graffiti.”
“(It’s) bringing back graffiti nights,” he said. “I wear a graffiti shirt in the last scene because, you know, I love Modesto.”
“(I) tried to refeel the nostalgia of that ... out of respect for George Lucas. He’s the man,” McKinney said.
“Angel Vision” is available to rent for $1.99 or purchase for $4.99 on Prime Video and is listed for ages 18 and older.
“I was really blessed by God to have this movie on Amazon,” McKinney said.
He’s currently working on “Angel Vision 2,” he said. “It’s only going to get better.”
This story was originally published August 30, 2024 at 6:00 AM.
