Timed for release this coming Monday, May 12, in advance of the June 20th anniversary celebration in downtown Keene, McGreer’s new line draws inspiration from the 1995 movie and Keene’s shoemaking history. Featuring a retro 1970s running shoe design, the sneakers include subtle nods to the film —such as a dice logo and the name “Parrish” stamped backward on the sole, leaving the correct imprint in dirt. Only 400 pairs will be made: two color options for men and two for women.
“June 20th is the 30th anniversary of ‘Jumanji,’ the filming of the movie being shot in downtown Keene,” McGreer said during the broadcast. “In anticipation of that, a couple years ago I launched this shoe line… and people were really psyched around town about the fact that we brought back the brand and the name.”
McGreer also discussed the creation of a humorous promotional video that accompanies the release:
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In the ad, he is seen sprinting through downtown Keene dressed as a “wild man” reminiscent of Robin Williams’ character from the film, with computer-generated rhinoceroses giving chase. “Nobody in their 50s should be sprinting up and down Main Street for two hours,” McGreer joked. “I think I was sore for five days after doing that.”
The shoes, designed as lifestyle sneakers rather than for serious running, McGreer hopes will generate buzz, nostalgia and local proud both in Keene and among “Jumanji” fans everywhere.
The new line of Parrish Shoes will be available for purchase this coming Monday, May 12, at Ted’s Shoe and Sport, 115 Main St.
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