Gone for the Weekend – An Uproarious Flick on Amazon

Filmmaker Troy Burbank delivers a raucous romantic comedy that hits all the right notes. This uproarious flick follows Phil, an aspiring actor, as he embarks on a weekend adventure filled with suspicion, shenanigans, and a dash of ’80s nostalgia.
Troy Burbank himself takes center stage as Jesse, leading a band of middle-aged pals on a whirlwind journey back to their adolescent antics.
But hold on to your hairspray cans, folks, because this isn’t your typical rom-com. GONE FOR THE WEEKEND throws in some special guests to crank up the rock ‘n’ roll factor. The legendary rock photographer Mark “WEISSGUY” Weiss, known for capturing iconic album covers for the likes of Bon Jovi and Twisted Sister, jumps into the spotlight. He starts with a short cameo but can’t resist writing himself into the script, bringing his rockstar buddies along for the ride. Brian Wheat of Tesla also makes a cameo appearance.
But what about the man behind the lens? Filmmaker Troy Burbank’s journey to GONE FOR THE WEEKEND is as unconventional as the film itself. Born and bred in the Leonardo neighborhood of Middletown, New Jersey, Burbank’s life took some unexpected turns. He ventured into the world of amateur boxing, clinching championships and even delving into professional boxing for a spell. Yet, his life took a cinematic twist when he encountered the world of movies at a young age. A fateful encounter with Kevin Smith, the maverick filmmaker of “CLERKS” fame, left an indelible mark on him. This chance meeting planted the seed of filmmaking in Burbank’s heart.
Over the years, Burbank paid his dues by dabbling in various movie projects. He appeared as an extra in films like MORNING GLORY with Harrison Ford and Rachel McAdams and DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THE MORGANS? with Hugh Grant and Sarah Jessica Parker. It was in 2010 that he took the leap into filmmaking, crafting his first film, “The House at 831.” And then, in 2015, he entered a “Doritos Crash the Super Bowl” contest.
But it was GONE FOR THE WEEKEND that truly set the stage for his cinematic aspirations. What started as a short film called HANGIN OUT evolved into this rollicking feature. The film even garnered a nomination at the 17th Annual Garden State Film Festival in 2019 before landing on Amazon Prime Video in the summer.
Burbank’s production company, Leonardo Boyz Films, was at the heart of this uproarious endeavor. With a script penned by Burbank himself, a team of local talents and friends, including Danny Sanchez, Mark Weiss, and others, came together to bring this riotous romp to life. The auditions drew hundreds of aspiring actors from both the local scene and the bustling streets of New York City.
Filming unfolded in beloved local haunts, including Atlantic Cinemas, The Blue Bay Inn, Slater’s Deli, Atlantic Bagel, and Town and Surf Diner. The film proudly championed local businesses, adding a touch of authenticity to its wild ride.
Now, let’s talk about the soundtrack. Chip Z’Nuff of Enuff Z’Nuff stepped into the movie, playing himself and re-recording their MTV hit “Fly High Michelle” for a surreal movie moment.
But that’s not all; the soundtrack also boasts Chip’s solo tracks from “Strange Time” and a guest appearance by Dale Bozzio of Missing Persons on “Tonight We Met.” Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Robin Zander of Cheap Trick and Steven Adler, formerly of Guns N’ Roses, team up with Enuff Z’Nuff for a rip-roaring rendition of The Kinks’ classic “All Day and All of the Night.”
Other local talents, including Colossal Street Jam and Wayne Olibieri, who crafted the movie’s theme song, “Gone For the Weekend,” round out this sonic adventure.
“GONE FOR THE WEEKEND” isn’t just a movie; it’s a rock ‘n’ roll rollercoaster through the wild ’80s, filled with laughter, libations, and unforgettable moments.