Horror movie shot in Frankfort stars actor of WWE fame

A “haunted” house in Frankfort will be featured prominently in an upcoming horror film starring former WWE actor Phil Brooks, also known as CM Punk.

Shooting on the film “Girl on the Third Floor” wrapped in August at the house, 207 Center Road, Frankfort. The film’s producers, from the Orland Park-based MPI Media Group, said this was a good opportunity to finally shoot a movie close to home.

The movie focuses on Brooks’ character, Don Koch, a man who is failing as a husband. He’s used his charm and charisma to skate by, and it’s nearly landed him in jail.

He hopes to make up for past mistakes by fixing up an old house. His wife, Liz Koch, is concerned about the project’s timeline because she’s pregnant. As Don begins to tear the house apart, the house has other plans.

For Brooks, this is his first leading role in a feature film. Before acting, the Chicago native enjoyed a long career in World Wrestling Entertainment under his ring name, CM Punk. He also has competed in the Ultimate Fighting Championship, had a recurring role on the IFC comedy series “Maron” starring podcaster Marc Maron, and will appear in a remake of David Cronenberg’s “Rabid.”

“I’m a longtime personal fan of genre films, and this project was an absolute natural fit for me,” Brooks said in a news release about the film.

Producer Greg Newman said Brooks’ abilities as an actor outside the wrestling ring made him a natural fit for the lead.

“His range and performance will surely delight and surprise those who know him best for his athletic career,” Newman said.

Writer and director Travis Stevens has produced other films, such as “We Are Still Here,” “Starry Eyes” and “Buster’s Mal Heart.” “Girl on the Third Floor” is Stevens’ first project for which he stepped behind the camera.

“I’m both grateful and humbled to receive the support of Queensbury Pictures, MPI Media and all the cast and crew who have crossed the threshold of this very strange, incredibly beautiful and unflinchingly terrifying house,” Stevens said.

The cast also stars Trieste Dunn, of “Applesauce,” “United 93,” “Banshee” and many other films and TV series; and Elissa Dowling, who is best known for “We Are Still Here.” Award-winning special effects technician Dan Martin was tasked with creating the film’s special makeup and creature effects. He’s worked on other films such as “High Rise” and “Free Fire.”

MPI Media Group owns Queensbury Pictures, the company making “Girl on the Third Floor.” MPI is no stranger to the horror genre. It’s produced films with titles such as “The Stakelander,” “Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer” and “The House of the Devil.”

“Girl on the Third Floor” is in post-production, but it is scheduled to be released next fall.