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Jacksonville director’s thriller based on Florida serial killer hits theaters

Director Warren Skeels graduated from Douglas Anderson School of the Arts

The Man in the White Van opens in theaters on Friday, Dec. 13. (WJXT)

A chilling true-crime thriller directed by Jacksonville’s own Warren Skeels makes its debut in theaters nationwide tonight, Friday the 13th.

The Man in a White Van recounts the terrifying story of Florida serial killer Billy Mansfield Jr., who kidnapped a Tampa teenager in 1975 and has since been linked to the remains of four victims, including a young woman discovered near Jacksonville’s airport.

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The film features an all-star cast, including Sean Astin (Stranger Things) and Ali Larter (The Rookie) and delves into the suspense surrounding the real-life events.

Skeels, a graduate of Douglas Anderson School of the Arts and a Jacksonville resident, shared his excitement about the film during a recent interview (watch below).

The Man in a White Van opens in local and national theaters tonight, offering audiences a gripping exploration of one of Florida’s darkest chapters.