Hollywood’s Sandler to film in Marblehead

MARBLEHEAD – Marbleheaders may have missed out on Zac Efron but they can start dusting off the welcome mat for Adam Sandler.The Saturday Night Live veteran and mega-movie star is scheduled to film scenes for his next major Sony/Columbia film, “Grown Ups,” at a home located at 100 Harbor Ave. Thursday and Friday, Aug. 6 and 7.A prefabricated single-story house set will be built at the location and, after shooting, a crew will spend about a week restoring the site to its original condition.Derek Cunningham, a location manager, told selectmen Wednesday evening that police will shut down Harbor Avenue and Harbor Street during filming. Movie equipment will be parked at the Recreation and Parks parking lot at Riverhead Beach and crew cars will park at Marblehead High and both the School Department and Rec and Park will receive a donation from the filmmakers in return for the use of their facilities.In a letter to the board, Cunningham said the movie deals with five friends who reunite for the Fourth of July holiday weekend 30 years after their high school graduation. It also stars Gary Busey, Salma Hayek, Kevin James and SNL vets Maya Rudolph, Chris Rock, Rob Schneider and David Spade. Cast members have been filming in Essex for the past six weeks.After meeting with selectmen, Cunningham said that “a major star” from the film will be on set for filming. “Officially it’s Adam Sandler,” he said but added that there is a chance it might be another star.Paul Petersiel, owner of the Lime Rickey’s restaurant at Devereux Beach, told the board he was concerned that film “gawkers” could impact his business. He said Cunningham has told him he would be made whole for any business reduction but hasn’t mentioned any specifics.Selectman James Nye told Petersiel, “If you want to work out something that’s great but I don’t think the town should be involved.” Nye, who acted as chairman, approved the filming request, along with Selectmen Harry Christensen and Judy Jacobi.Selectmen also approved a request from an Italian film crew who want to film downtown Marblehead Saturday as part of a feature news story for a feature news program, “Dream Road.” Their visit will coincide with the annual Glover’s Regiment festivities around Fort Sewall.