High Rise: Path to Nowhere
The Journey Behind the Film
High Rise: Path to Nowhere is not just another crime thriller—it’s a passion project that required determination, creativity, and a deep love for storytelling. A labor of love that stretched across multiple locations, from Sacramento and Folsom to El Dorado Hills, and even Charlotte, North Carolina, the film has found its way to new audiences and critical acclaim. It now airs on Xfinity Cable Channel 18 in Sacramento and is available for streaming on Prime Video, bringing its gritty narrative to viewers worldwide.
The Journey to Production
Producing High Rise: Path to Nowhere wasn’t an easy feat. The film required meticulous planning, a talented team, and a commitment to shooting in diverse locations to bring its story to life. While many scenes were filmed in California—highlighting the stunning landscapes of Sacramento, Folsom, and El Dorado Hills—other sequences required a different backdrop. For this reason, the production also extended to Charlotte, North Carolina, bringing an unexpected flair to the visual storytelling.
One of the biggest challenges was managing the logistics of filming in multiple locations while maintaining a consistent narrative tone. Sacramento’s urban landscapes, paired with the rustic charm of Folsom and El Dorado Hills, provided a perfect setting for the film’s themes of power, ambition, and danger. These California locations were complemented by the energy of Charlotte, offering a diverse range of settings that kept the story fresh and dynamic.
However, the production wasn’t without its challenges. During filming, producer and director Jon Robert Quinn fell seriously ill and required emergency surgery. Despite this setback, Quinn’s resilience and determination kept the production on track, demonstrating the level of commitment needed to bring a project like this to life.
Star Power: Charles D. Clark, Chad Ayers, and Jessie Bell
High Rise: Path to Nowhere brought together a talented cast, with Charles D. Clark, Chad Ayers, and Jessie Bell delivering standout performances that elevated the film.
Charles D. Clark, known for his unforgettable roles in Empire and House of Cards, portrays Ruthless Jackson, a captain in the notorious Bollieri cartel. Jackson is a character driven by power, ambition, and a ruthless desire to dominate his enemies. Clark’s portrayal of Jackson brings a unique depth to the character, capturing both the cold-blooded nature of a cartel leader and the vulnerabilities that make him human. His commanding presence on screen is one of the key elements that make the film compelling.
Chad Ayers, known for his role in Striptease, plays Andrew Roberts, an old detective ready for retirement who is pulled back into the action as he and his partner work to take down the drug cartels. Ayers brings a sense of gravitas to his character, embodying the weary but determined detective who knows that this may be his last big case.
Joining Clark and Ayers is Jessie Bell from ATL Homicide, who plays Emily Barrett, Roberts’ sidekick. Barrett is a strong and capable detective who complements Roberts with her sharp instincts and unwavering determination. Together, the trio forms a dynamic team as they take on the dangerous task of taking down the Bollieri and Vernicci cartels during a tense drug transaction.
The Plot: A Tense Drug Transaction and the Cops Who Take on the Cartels
At the heart of High Rise: Path to Nowhere is a high-stakes drug transaction between the Bollieri and Vernicci cartels. With the cops closing in, the tension builds as both sides prepare for a confrontation that could change the course of their criminal empires. The plot weaves together moments of intense action with deep character exploration, as Roberts, Barrett, and Jackson navigate a world of betrayal, loyalty, and violence. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and the film keeps audiences on the edge of their seats until the very end.
Filming Locations and Challenges
One of the most exciting aspects of High Rise: Path to Nowhere is the use of multiple filming locations to tell its story. The filmmakers made the decision to shoot in Sacramento, Folsom, and El Dorado Hills, capturing the essence of Northern California's landscapes and urban settings. These areas became integral to the film’s aesthetic, grounding the story in a location that feels real and relatable.
However, the production also extended to Pacific Palisades, where several key scenes were filmed. Unfortunately, these locations were later affected by the devastating fires that tore through the area in early 2025, leaving some of the locations no longer standing. The filmmakers were fortunate to capture these locations before the fires, making the scenes even more poignant given the historical context.
The production also ventured to Charlotte, North Carolina, adding an unexpected dimension to the film. The diverse locations contributed to the dynamic pacing and tone of the movie, helping to create a cinematic experience that is both thrilling and visually compelling.
Airing on Xfinity Cable and Prime Video
After its production, High Rise: Path to Nowhere has found its audience through multiple platforms. The film is now airing on Xfinity Cable Channel 18 in Sacramento, bringing it to homes across the region. This local airing is a testament to the film’s deep roots in the Sacramento area and the pride that the filmmakers have in showcasing their city.
Additionally, the film is available for streaming on Prime Video, making it accessible to a global audience. This wide distribution allows viewers around the world to experience High Rise: Path to Nowhere and immerse themselves in its compelling story and gripping performances.
