PITCH THE 406 WINNER

“Magpie” explores the current Bakken oil boom in eastern Montana, telling the fictional story of a ranch family and how it adapts to the changing world. The script outlines the struggles of a stepfather and his daughter over control and ownership of their family’s future — torn between the fortunes to be made in the oil boom and keeping the traditions of family ranching alive.

Matthew Smaglik and his production company, Sanshead Studios, will begin scouting locations in eastern Montana this spring and plan to shoot this summer. The young filmmaker shot his first independent feature the summer of 2011 in Dillon, Mont. The drama, called “Cooper,” is currently in the post-production process and will soon be on the film festival circuit.

As the winning filmmaker, Smaglik will receive $20,000 worth of rent-free equipment and labor — from grip trucks, cranes and lighting to experienced crew — offered through Filmlites Montana.

For more information on all of Montana’s one-of-a-kind locations and the Studio 406 Incentive Package, visit the Montana Film Office at http://www.montanafilm.com.