A University of Idaho faculty member and a North Idaho youth are bringing Hollywood attention to the Gem State this week as their new film becomes available to stream nationwide.
Kelly Eviston-Quinnett, a professor at U of I, and Clark Shotwell of Coeur d’Alene star in “Propeller One-Way Night Coach,” which debuts on Apple TV on Friday, May 29. The production marks actor John Travolta’s first time behind the camera as a director.
From Cannes to Streaming
The film made its world premiere earlier this month at the 79th Cannes Film Festival in France before its streaming release. Eviston-Quinnett and Shotwell portray a mother and son who embark on a cross-country flight to Hollywood that transforms into an unexpected adventure.
Shotwell’s character is a young boy fascinated by aircraft during what the film depicts as the golden age of American aviation. What begins as routine air travel evolves into something far more memorable for the on-screen family.
“I still can’t believe this is happening – this is something I have dreamt of for most of my life,” Eviston-Quinnett said. “I can’t say enough about how special this has been. To have worked with such an incredible actor and human being, John Travolta, and to have been directed by him – well, it doesn’t get much better than that.”
Representing the Vandals
For Eviston-Quinnett, the project offered more than professional advancement. The U of I professor saw the international film festival screening as a chance to represent her university and community on a global stage.
“I am so excited to carry the spirit of our program and our community to the Cannes premiere,” Eviston-Quinnett said. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and I want to share it with everyone. I’m so very grateful and so happy to celebrate and share the work.”
The movie draws from source material Travolta published in 1997. The actor adapted his own children’s book of the same name for the screen, making his directorial debut with a story he originally wrote nearly three decades ago.
What Comes Next
The film’s family-friendly approach positions it for broad appeal on the streaming platform. With a U of I connection and North Idaho talent in leading roles, the release gives regional audiences a stake in a production that has already earned recognition at one of the world’s most prestigious film festivals. Apple TV subscribers can watch the movie beginning this Friday.