From page to screen, a 1977 Youngstown was reimagined during the film premiere of "Brier Hill" at the Columbiana Arts Theater Friday night. 

Based on the novel by Jimmy Taaffee, who also directed the film, "Brier Hill" is about a couple who have lived their lives in that historic Italian neighborhood of Youngstown and become entangled with the Mancini crime family.

While the story is fictional, it was inspired by real people and events from the 1970s to 1990s, when the mob had a strong hold over Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley. 

"It has the history and the nostalgia of Youngstown," said Marcanthony Gabriele, an actor in the film. "The movie has a little bit of romance, it has suspense, it has kind of that walking the fine line, 'Who do I root for?' ... Overall, just great entertainment and a great story about the area."

It's not just the plotline that makes Brier Hill a local film. Much of the cast and crew are native to the Valley, with alumni from Cardinal Mooney, Boardman High School, Youngstown State University and more taking part. 

"My family actually originates from Brier Hill, from Italy," said Johnny D'Andrea, the film's leading actor. "So it was a big homage for me to pay as an actor ... and really as an Italian."

Filming took place in Youngstown, Struthers and Leetonia, and even featured a cameo from a local non-actor. 

"I was on the phone with the mayor of Struthers, and I mentioned, 'Well, we need a police chief to be in this specific role,'" Taafee said. "Sure enough, Tim [Roddy], the police chief of Struthers, volunteered for the job."

Friday night's showing completely filled the theater, with more than 400 tickets sold, according to the film's executive producer. Another showing is scheduled for Saturday, with tickets available online or at the door for $30.