Farina to star in indie film 'Joe May'

CHICAGO, Dec. 3 (UPI) -- Hollywood actor Dennis Farina has signed on to star in the independent feature drama "The Last Rites of Joe May," the film's producers said.

The movie was written and is being directed by Joe Maggio, whose credits include "Virgil Bliss" and "Milk and Honey." Principal photography on it began last week in Chicago.

Farina, a Windy City native, is known for his work in films like "Midnight Run," "Get Shorty" and "Snatch."

"Joe May" co-stars Gary Cole, Chelcie Ross, Ian Barford and Jamie Allman.

Steppenwolf Films said it has joined former New Line Cinema executives Stephanie Striegel and Bill Straus as a producing partner. Tim Evans will executive produce for Steppenwolf, while Bobby Schwartz and Dennis Mastro also serve as executive producers.