SOMERVILLE, Mass. — Movie crews are in Somerville filming scenes at the home of slain MIT Officer Sean Collier.
Some are saying its bad timing because of what happened 3 years ago today, but neighbors tell fox25 film crews are being sensitive.
The scenes are being filmed inside and outside the home where Collier actually lived until he was killed by the Tsarnaevs several days after the Boston Marathon bombing.
"It sounds like they being sensitive to what today is but also... Celebrating in a way his life,” Mary Dulatre said.
The move ‘Patriots Day’ stars Mark Wahlberg and started filming weeks ago. A production spokesperson on scene today told FOX25 the scenes they're shooting on the anniversary of the bombing are non-violent and all to honor the courage and bravery of Collier.
Locals for the most part were okay with the timing.
"I think if they do it tactfully I think it could be a good thing,” Kira Henderson said.
A statement from the city to FOX25 they were given details about the filming before issuing permits.
“Today is a day of remembrance for the City of Somerville as it is for the rest of the region. We are grieving, just as so many others continue to grieve for their friends and loved ones. Sean Collier was one of our own, and someone we all loved and respected in our community, and many City staff knew him personally. We will never forget the commitment he made to protect and serve our City. Today’s filming in Somerville happens to fall on our day of remembrance, however we respect the right of private property owners to give access to their homes and move forward in their own way, and as such have worked with the film company to assist in the City’s limited capacity here: permitting for parking and other needs that fall on the public right of way. Had we not been reassured that today’s filming would not impact or cause immediate disruption or concern for our residents, parking approvals would not have been given."
Some residents say the disruption is worth it if it helps the tribute.
"I think it just makes it more authentic. It's actually going to tell the story rather than if it was shot in a Hollywood set,” Lacey Hines said.
The crew even paused production at 2:49 p.m., the time of the bombing, to honor all of the victims and survivors with a moment of silence.
Watch FOX25 News at 5 and 6 for more on the movie's filming plans.