Actor Andy Favreau

Andy Favreau was born and raised in Massachusetts, but will soon leave Boston behind and move out to Hollywood.  Before he goes, he'll be starring in the latest project from Astropiano Films, Mark of the Dog Rose.  Favreau will be seen playing Detective Sullivan in this mystery thriller.

A relative newcomer to the acting scene, Favreau has worked on numerous local projects including What’s Your Number? and The Town, and has starred in many short films.  Favreau was also in a nationally run Bud Light commercial and has modeled for companies such as Life is Good, Callaway, Shirt for Shirt, Tailor Vintage, Bose, and Marc Harris Salon, among others.  He is a graduate of Suffolk University, and has a masters degree in Criminal Justice and Public Administration.

What is the current project you are working on?

Right now it’s Mark of the Dog Rose.  Filming starts this month (August) and I can’t wait.  It’s a great script written by Shannon Carter and we have an excellent cast and crew.  I play Detective Ryan Sullivan.

Did you always want to be an actor?

You know, I think I always did without realizing it.  When I was growing up, I can remember doing a lot of imitations from movies and even commercials in front of my family.  But it wasn’t until my first acting class that a light bulb really went off, and I thought to myself, “This is what I love, and this is what I’m good at.”

 

What inspired you to become an actor?

I think what really motivated me to become an actor was the enjoyment I get from entertaining people.  To be able to captivate an audience is incredibly rewarding, and something that really motivates me.

 

What is the worst thing about being one?

Right now, it’s dealing with breaking into the business in a significant way.  I’m moving to Los Angeles in the next few months, and whenever I start thinking about how much competition there'll be, I have a panic attack and pass out.  Kidding.  Kind of.

What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?

I'd say roughly 15 projects

Who is is your favorite filmmaker?

Quentin Tarantino.  He’s like no other.  He’s so original in his storytelling.  The scenes he creates are so long and have so much dialogue, I love that.

How has your life changed since you became an actor?

Well, it’s about to change in a big way when I move across the country to L.A. Having lived in Massachusetts my entire life, that will probably be the biggest change yet.

What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants to make it in the movie business?

Confidence goes a long way in this business.  Don’t let anyone tell you you can’t.  Especially yourself.  And stay motivated.

What are some of your favorite American films? Foreign films? Television shows?

This is tough.  There are so many that I love.  Some films that immediately come to mind are Pulp Fiction, Good Will Hunting, Goodfellas, Forrest Gump, American Beauty, Shawshank Redemption, and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.  All just really great stories with some great acting.  Pulp Fiction has got to be my favorite though.  Tarantino is a genius.

I’m a T.V. fanatic.  Television shows have become so good over the past decade or so.  The Sopranos, The Wire, Breaking Bad, Friday Night Lights, and Mad Men have all set the bar so high.  The writing and the acting in all of those are just outstanding.

How would you describe the film "scene" where you live?

So many great films have been shot here in Boston.  Some have said that this city has become a sort of Hollywood East, and I can see some truth in that.  It’s been great for someone like myself starting out in the business.  I think it’s great for the city too.

 

How has social media changed the independent film industry?

It’s a very important tool for independent film makers.  Social media has the ability to take something and make it extremely popular.  It puts your stuff out there for the world to see.

What is the casting process like?

It’s always interesting.  Sometimes I’ll get called in for a casting for a commercial where I don’t even have a line to say.  It’s like, are they just casting based on a certain look?  Is there anything I can do to help myself here?  Other times at castings for a film you may feel real good going into it knowing that this is your role, this role was made for you, you’re gonna kill it.  Or, you may have to change yourself up a bit to fit a certain role.  I’ve experienced a lot of type cast so far in my career.  And it’s always funny to walk into a casting room and see a bunch of dudes who look just like you auditioning for the same part.

 

What's your favorite movie quote and why?

 

“Get busy livin’, or get busy dyin’.  That’s goddamn right.” - Red (Morgan Freeman)  from Shawshank Redemption.  It sums up what it's all about pretty well.

 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thanks for the interview John!  Everyone follow Mark of the Dog Rose on Facebook and Twitter!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thanks for doing the interview.  I hope to be one of the first people inline to get a DVD when "Mark Of The Dog Rose" is released.

Filmmaker Gary King

Gary King is a contemporary American filmmaker whose work is known for powerful performances with an emphasis on a strong, visual style. He has written, directed and produced several critically acclaimed feature films.  (Read full bio here) Blog: www.grking.com Twitter: @grking   IMDB

 

What is the current project you are working on?

For almost two years now, I've been working on a musical drama "How Do You Write A Joe Schermann Song".  I'm happy to say that I can see the light at the end of the tunnel and will be bringing this film to the festival circuit in 2012.  I've also got a few projects in heavy development so it's only a matter of time before I know and can announce which one I'll be diving into next.

 Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

As a kid, I was just as fascinated about the "behind the scenes" and "making of" specials as the movies themselves -- so I was always imagining what it'd be like to make films.  While growing up, I just never realized there was a school for it or that a person could really make it a career choice....so I entered the corporate world for a while.  Five years ago, I walked away from the day job and have never looked back.

 What inspired you to become filmmaker?

Mainly it was sitting in the dark theater as a kid with complete strangers and sharing a collective experience.  When things happened on screen and I could hear people laughing, shrieking and clapping....I thought that this was something I wanted to do as well: to give an audience something to experience.

 What is the best thing about being one?

I wish I could have a great answer about the glamorous perks -- but at my level there aren't many as it's a constant daily grind to either: finish a film, start a film, raise the funding for one or get it distributed and seen.  Besides that, I do have to say that I've formed some great working relationships and friendships with some amazing people in the industry that continue to inspire me in many ways.

Okay I'm not going to discount the fact that making a movie is just damn good fun.  It's a rush that is very hard to duplicate in other outlets.  I can count on one hand the things that could possibly be more fun than making a film....but we won't go there.

 What is the worst thing about being one?

I've yet to come up with one reason that sucks being a filmmaker.  I can say that criticism can sting -- and getting bad reviews still affect me even though I know they shouldn't.  I'm still learning to accept that film is an art form and thus will divide people no matter what.  Some people will love my work -- others won't.  What keeps me getting through this is knowing that my all-time favorite films (that I would've been proud to make myself) are absolutely detested by some people -- so I just gotta keep my head down and keep moving....which I'm proud to say that, for the most part, I've been doing.

What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?

As a filmmaker I've done two shorts and five features (three on my own -- two as a "director-for-hire").  I've been very lucky in my opportunities.

 Who is is your favorite filmmaker?

It's hard for me to say just one as different directors inspire me for different reasons.

I love all these filmmakers for their style and worlds they create: Woody Allen, Pedro Almodovar, P.T. Anderson, Robert Altman, Brian De Palma, John Carpenter, Ingmar Bergman, John Cassavetes, Krzysztof Kieslowski, Aki Kaurismäki and Wong Kar-Wai.

There are a few that I adore because they are so prolific....jumping from genre to genre successfully (which I hope to do with my career): Danny Boyle, Howard Hawks, Francois Truffaut, Steven Soderbergh.

At the grassroots indie level I really dig Zak Forsman and Kevin Shah's work and their Sabi Company films.  Their film "Heart of Now" made me want to be a better filmmaker.

 How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker?

I can't really think of anything directly changing other than moving to New York five years ago.  Okay I lied....there have been a few times in the past year where people have told me that my films have either inspired them or affected them in some profound way.  That makes me smile and feel that it's all worth it.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

I love hanging out with my friends.  The sad thing is I'm so busy that it rarely happens now.  And when we do hang out....it's to talk about making movies!

Have you had any other jobs before you decided to become a filmmaker?

My first job was a movie theater usher (free movies!).  I've also been a Blockbuster video guy (free movies!), a grocery store clerk (paper or plastic?), a waiter at a Mexican restaurant (yo hablo espanol), a customer service rep for a major newspaper (how can I help you?), a human resources representative (you're hired...you're fired!)....then filmmaker (action!).

 How would you describe your film education?

Watching and absorbing as many films as I can (all genres/eras from around the world).  I can't stress enough on how putting my stamp in the film world begins with knowing about what's been done before.  Love them or hate them, at least I know about most of them (and I still have a huge stack of films I need to see!!).  The best part of discovering a film or filmmaker is being able to pull something from them.  I always say everybody borrows...it's from whom you choose to borrow from that makes you unique.

I also have read a ton of books over the years....the majority of them for when I was first starting out...but I still like to revisit a few just before I go into production.  And of course the most important of all for me is learning by doing.

There's almost nothing better for me than watching my film with an audience to see what works well and what doesn't -- to see if the film is coming across how I intended.  I like to examine my decision-making process (whether if it was on the set....or in pre/post production) based on those successes and failures to reflect on what I would or could do differently if presented with a similar situation.

Throughout my work, there are moments I feel I've failed miserably at...so I take the learning lessons and try it again on the next one.  And when something works well, I pretty much chalk it up to having a bit of luck along with experience.  Just like any other profession there's nothing better than what time and acquired knowledge can give you in order to make those crucial decisions.

 How would you describe the film "scene" where you live?

New York seems to have a ton of movers and shakers -- who are just as hungry and talented than the next person if not more.  I tend to gravitate towards the people who not only want more with their career, but are willing to do something about it.  Nothing frustrates me more than meeting people who say they want success, but then actually do very little to really achieve it.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

I think it's one of the most powerful resources out there for artists.  If managed effectively I see it as a viable tool in the community for quite a while.  It is giving people like me the the opportunity to create when just a few years ago we were struggling on how and where to find the financing.  I know for a fact that I wouldn't have been able to do "How Do You Write A Joe Schermann Song" without crowdfunding and the hundreds of generous supporters that believed in it.

What is the casting process like?

Casting for me has been an ever-evolving process.  When I first moved to New York five years ago, I barely knew anyone so I had to use various casting websites and hold general auditions to meet performers.

Now, I'm thankful to be at a point where I've worked with a lot of people.  So when it comes to casting, I much prefer fostering a current working relationship or getting a personal referral.  I rarely have any general casting calls.  I actually love meeting people personally to see if we click off the set...then setting up meetings or screen tests around specific roles.  Of course general casting sessions still come in handy should there be a type that I'm looking for and nobody in my "six-degrees of" network seems to fit.

Sometimes I hit it off with someone so much that I write a role specifically for them on another project.  This has happened with Christina Rose, Daryl Ray Carliles, Jared Asato, Jeremy Koerner, Mark DiConzo and Jenn Dees among others.

For upcoming projects, I really look forward to becoming more involved with casting directors who have access to more "name" talent as I feel that is the major component missing from my films (although I definitely plan to bring my favorite actors along with me).

         What's your favorite movie quote and why?

More of an industry quote:  "Nobody knows anything..." -- William Goldman

It's so true.  If we knew the right way to do things everyone would be successful with a blockbuster film.  And it's clear that isn't the case.  There are definitely some guidelines to be aware of....even best practices...but there are no guarantees.  That's what makes filmmaking exciting and scary at the same time.

 What is your opinion on movie remakes?

Only do it if it can be done better or updated with a fresh take on it.  I'm a classic movie lover and feel that some are definitely untouchable.  However, there are a few flicks that could be too dated for modern audiences and whose stories are still worth sharing.  It's sad to me that some people refuse to watch older films but that's the reality of the market today.  They actually are a real education in so many ways -- not just from a filmmaking standpoint, but how we were as a society.

This reminds me of a funny story when a person about ten years younger than me started to pitch his movie idea that he thought was so original....until I said "so basically a remake of SILENT RUNNING?"  He stopped and asked "what's that?"  This just lends to my stance on film education again....that one of the best ways to be a better or smarter filmmaker is to watch a ton of films.

Now I guess the big question for me is would I do one?  It depends on how much you pay me haha!

 What's it like to work with Christina Rose?

Christina Rose is a major talent.  I feel she has the qualities that any filmmaker would want: strong acting ability, great range, a risk-taker, having amazing screen presence, a total professional and just fun to be around.  I also love how she's not afraid of the camera -- nothing comes between them in such a raw, organic way.

When Christina was first cast as "Wanda" ("Death of the Dead"), I had no idea that on the very first shooting day we would already be finishing each other's thoughts.  It was scary.  And since then, it's uncanny to see how often we have the same instincts and sensibilities on approaching scenes.

I was already developing "Schermann Song" before we'd met...so while shooting "DotD" when I learned she'd been on Broadway, I expanded and tailored the role of "Evey" just for her.  I think it was fate that she fit the character so perfectly.

It’s very easy working with her so don’t be surprised if you see us doing a few more films together before it’s all said and done.

Who would win in a fight between you and Miles Maker?

Oh man what kind of fight are we talking about here?  Well, I think he could do his patented dance kick-split and take me out if he wanted to haha!

Miles Maker is actually an emerging force in the industry and I'm really proud to have him as a producing partner.  We are developing several projects together that I hope to share really soon.  I've been very fortunate in that he has really opened a lot of doors for me to get in front of people's eyes.  I've been so busy with my head down creating content that I sometimes am not able to branch out and reach beyond my network.....and he's helped me do that.  Be on the lookout because we've got some exciting stuff in the works.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I just love what you're doing.  I really appreciate your giving artists the opportunity to share more about our lives and projects.  It means a lot so thank you.

 

 

 

 

Thanks for doing the interview Gary. I look forward to when the DVD of  "How Do You Write A Joe Schermann Song" is released.

Actor Giancarlo Madonnini

What is the current project you are working on? 

The current project that I am workin' on is an independant film called, "Mark of the Dog Rose." It's a dark suspense drama in which my sister is kidnapped by the "Merrimack Snatcher," and I have two weeks to find her or the worst will happen. There are a bunch of twists and turns as well, but I don't wanna give away too much of the plot. ; ) I am also currently writing a script of my own, that I hope to have finished by the middle of next year. (Finger's crossed)

Did you always want to be an actor?

I haven't always wanted to be an actor, but i've always had a reaaaaaally strong interest in movies. Even as a younger child, I would remember putting myself in the shoes of the main characters of the movie, and try to imagine what it would be like if that was me. Whether it was a comedy, drama, horror, or anything. I always immersed myself into the film.

What inspired you to become an actor?

As I got older, I occasionally thought about making a move and maybe trying to get into the industry, but it wasn't until I saw Heath Ledger in, "The Dark Knight," that I made my desicion to give it a try. He was really my inspiration. I was blown away by the way he was able to transform himself from such a regular person in real life, to a character as derranged as The Joker. As soon as those credits rolled at the end of the movie, something just went off in my head and I said, "That's it, i'm going for it," and I did.

What is the best thing about being one?

I'd have to say my favorite thing about being an actor is how every project you do, gives you a chance to play a new character. Someone other than yourself. It's just nice to be able to step out of your own shoes and try to relate to another character well enough to portray them. When i'm acting, nothing else is on my mind. No bills, no girls, no job. My purpose is to do the best that I possibly can to achieve what I was going for.

What is the worst thing about being one?

Honestly, I can't think of too many things that I don't like about being an actor. If I had to pick something, I guess it would be the amount of time that it takes to edit, check sound quality, fix any little problems that pop up in the film after we've wrapped. I'm just full of so much anxiety from the time we wrap, until the time of the premiere. All I want to do is see and hear the reactions of the people who are watching it.

What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?

I'm relatively new to the film industry. I've only played a small role last year, in an independant film for Astropiano Films. It was called, "Sunblocked." I had maybe 6-8 scenes in the movie, but got such good feedback that it landed me a lead in their next project, which is, "Mark of the Dog Rose." Besides that, i've been on the set of, "Here Comes the Boom" with Kevin James. I was only an extra, but it was a great experience to see how a professional set is run, and what really goes into a film.

Who is your favorite filmmaker?

My favorite filmmaker? That's a tough question. There are so many great directors out there, but I guess off the top of my head, Ron Howard tends to put out more hits than alot of others I can think of right now. Him, and Martin Scorsese, I would have to say. I'm Italian, so I tend to relate to his movies better than others. Haha.

How has your life changed since you became an actor?

I don't know if my life has really changed since i've become an actor, but I will say that it's given me a little spark in my life. It's given me something to shoot for, and has shown me what I have a passion for. You can work 60 year's of your life at a job that you hate, and never know what it is that you really wanted to do. Right now, I just wait tables and personal train, but my passion is acting. There's just something about it, it lights me up, and when I have a project, that's the NUMBER ONE priority. I'll go to work to pay my bills, but that is not my life. I'd happily make acting my life.

What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants to make it in the movie business?

The best advice I could give to someone that wants to make it in the business, (Not that i'm a grizzled vet over here or anything) would have to be, immerse yourself in it. Don't just think, "Alright, i'm playing, "so and so", and this is their issue, and this is what I have to do." No, MAKE YOURSELF that character. Relate to them, understand what it would be like to be in their shoes. Don't be affraid to take risks when your being filmed. If you look like a dork, who cares, your doing what you love, and your only gonna learn more, the more you try. So i'd have to say, just give it your all, and don't hold back.

What do you like to do besides acting?

Besides acting, I love to watch movies. (No big surprise there) Go out and shoot some pool, maybe bowl, or throw some darts, toss back a few brews with some buddy's and just shoot the breeze. I'm pretty much down for anything. I hate being bored and CANNOT stand still, so i'll pretty much go anywhere at the drop of a hat.

Have you had any other jobs before you decided to become a filmmaker?

Oh ya, i've had maaaaaaany jobs before acting. I'll try to remember a few here if I can... I've worked at Hampton Beach from age 13 until 20, at my fathers restaurant. CVS, Woburn Cinema, worked contruction and carpentry, Outback Steakhouse, Margaritas, Chili's, The 99's. I'm pretty sure I could go on for another ten minutes on this question, but i'll just stop it there, cause most of the jobs SUCKED. Haha.

What are some of your favorite American films? Foreign films? Television shows?

My favorite films? Oh boy, this could literally go on for day's, but i'll keep it as short as possible. I guess as far as foreign films go, "La Vita e Bella" Life is Beautiful, with Roberto Benigni, is my favorite. It's about a father and young son who get taken away to a concentration camp, and when his wifes finds out what happens, she demands to go on the train as well. Even though she is not Jewish. The main reason why I love this movie so much though, is because of the lengths the father goes to keep his son, not only safe, but HAPPY and having fun while in a freakin' concentration camp. It's an amazing story, and I think everyone should watch it at least once. Now television shows...eh. I don't get into too many t.v. series, I pretty much DVR everything that I wanna watch, and just fast forward the commercials. Right now on my DVR there's, Two and a Half Men, Still Standing, Time Warp, Man vs. Food Nation, Home Improvement, WWE Monday Night Raw, and Friday Night Smackdown. (Yes, I love wrestling) Haha. Besides that, i'm also a HUGE astronomy nerd, so I have pretty much anything that has to do with that, saved on my DVR. Now to American Films. Like I said, this could take forever, so i'll just name ten of my favorites. The Godfather, Blow, Gangs of New York, American History X, Good Will Hunting, The Dark Knight, Braveheart, Forrest Gump, Contact, DeJa Vu. I have about 100 more favorites, but i'll just keep it short for the sake of...I'M A HUGE MOVIE NERD! Haha.

How would you describe your film education?

I don't really have a so called, "film education." I pretty much just try to rely on my abilities to relate, sympathize, and empathize. Also, I try to detatch myself from my own life as much as possible while on set, so i'm able to BE that other character. Never went to school for acting. I would love to go if I was given a chance, and had the money. For now though, I guess i'm just gonna have to be self taught, and try to learn as much as possible from other's who have been in the industry longer.

How would you describe the film "scene" where you live?

The film scene in Boston is GREAT right now. I call it the Hollywood of the east. So many movies have been shot here in the past ten years. It's really exciting. Besides giving Boston actors a better chance then having to move to L.A. or N.Y, it really makes me pround of where I live. Boston has so much history and talent, it's nice to be able to show the world what we have to offer.

How has social media changed the independent film industry?

Man, the social media is huge for the independant film industry. Before all this social media stuff, figuratively speaking, you could only reach the person next to you. Now, your reach extends pretty much all over the world. Facebook, besides taking over the planet! Has given people great opportunities to network, and follow their dreams. I don't know how we'd be able to promote as much as we do now, without these resources.

What is the casting process like?

The casting process, from what i've seen and been though, is very stressful. It's tough to stand up in front of people that you've just met and belt out some intense dialouge. I can remember my first audition. I was so excited because I thought we were gonna be up on the stage in front of everyone and be able to really show what we've got. Nope, I was wrong. They broke us up into small groups and had us walk up to a table with two people sitting at it, and just stare at you, while you spit your dialouge to them. Needless to say, I didn't feel like I did very well. I somehow was given a callback, but didn't respond, because I had a feeling that they were just looking for new money for their school. Had I felt like I, "Knocked it outta the park," then I probably would have called back. The auditions for, "Mark of the Dog Rose" were a great learning experience though. It was nice to see that I wasn't the only one who get's nervous in that situation. Whether it was a younger kid auditioning, or someone in there 50's, 60's or older, they all were nervous and all were a little shakey. So that made me feel much better and more at ease, the next time I go out to an audition.

You could go back in time and see any classic film being made. Which film would it be and why?

If I could go back in time and see one movie being made, I guess off the top of my head it would have to be, "The Wizard of Oz." It's amazing how one movie can still have an impact on you 22 year's later since the first time you saw it. I would love to see how they made the costumes, did the special effects, how the actors prepared, and most of all, I wouldn't mind meeting Judy Garland. ; ) Yes, I know she was 16 when she was casted for this, but it's 2011 now, so she'd be 89. Don't really know where I was going with that, but I don't know where the nearest time machine is anyways, so......next question. Haha.

What's your favorite movie quote and why?

Favorite movie quote?!? Man, that's a tough one. I mean, I can pretty much quote the entire Dumb and Dumb movie. "Ski's huh?" "Ya." "Cool."

"That's right!" "Great! They yours?" "Uh-huh." "Both of 'em?" "Yes." "Um. Cool!" Haha. It's funny, i'm not a big comedy movie fan, but for some reason, those are the quotes that stick in my head the most. I'll keep this question short too, because it too could go on for awhile. Haha.

 

 

 

 

 

Thanks for doing the interview Giancarlo. I look forward to watching "Mark Of The Dog Rose" when it comes out on DVD.

Interview With "Sandman Slim" Author Richard Kadrey

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/v/v9zhv39ZQZ4&hl=en&fs=1&]

Richard Kadrey is a freelance writer living in San Francisco. He is the author of dozens of stories, plus five novels, including Sandman Slim (buy), Metrophage(buy) and Butcher Bird (buy/download). His Wired magazine cover story, Carbon Copy, was made into one of the worst movies of 2001. It starred Bridget Fonda.

Kadrey created and wrote the Vertigo comics mini-series ACCELERATE, which was illustrated by the Pander Brothers. He plans to do more comic work in the near future.

He has written and spoken about art, culture and technology for Wired, The San Francisco Chronicle, Discovery Online, The Site, SXSW and Wired For Sex on the G4 cable network.

He is also a fetish photographer and digital artist. His work can be seen at KaosBeautyKlinik.com (Warning: Adult Content; 18+ only!

You can also find Richard online here:

Wikipedia

Twitter

Facebook

MySpace

ModelMayhem

Flickr (Warning: Adult Content; 18+ only!)

Contact Richard at kadrey@gmail.com

What is the current project you are working on?

The third Sandman Slim book, Aloha From Hell, will be out this October. Right now I'm writing the fourth book, which is the first in another three book story arc.

I started out writing what was supposed to be a simple series about a hitman, but now the story has me rewriting the cosmology of the entire universe. I never planned on that but it's a fun surprise to see where the story and characters have taken me.

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Did you always want to be a writer?

I never wanted to be a writer. I just started writing as a kid and didn't stop. My mother worked for a local newspaper when I was young so she was very encouraging of my writing. I wrote a lot of odd little stories when I was a kid, mostly science fiction and horror, and usually based on whatever movie or book had scared me recently.

I had a lot of trouble with English teachers. I started out in New York and ended up in Texas and the Texas school system was a very different animal. Things were simpler and slower there. I thought the material we were reading was dull and that the teachers were treating us as if we were a little slow. Teachers hated me because they did tell that I had a fair amount of contempt for the classes, but they couldn't fail me because I was always the best writer. That doesn't mean I was a good writer. It means that most people are hopeless. I blame school for that.

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What is the best/worst thing about being a writer?

The best thing about being a writer is that you get to work at home. That's also the worst thing. It's easy to lose track of time, so you wind up working all day and night. It's easy to lose track of dates and not know what day of the week it is. I tried picking up some dry cleaning on July 4 and the store was closed. I couldn't figure out why until I heard firecracker go off and I remembered that it was a holiday for people who had real jobs.

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What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants to become a writer?

Read a lot and find authors the authors you like. However, it's just important to find writers you hate. Good writers can inspire you but they're not good to read when you're writing because you'll end up comparing yourselves to them. Bad writers are always good to keep around. At some point you're going to decide that the story you're writing is terrible and that you should throw it away. That's when you pick up a book you hate and read a couple of pages. It will emend you that a lot of crap gets published and you'll find yourself saying, “My story might be crap, but it's no worse than this crap in this crap got published.”

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What do you like to do besides writing?

I like to travel. Everyone who wants to write should travel, especially out of the country. And especially out of the industrialized world. Go somewhere there's no heat and you can hear the rats in the walls. Go somewhere you have to ride in an oxcart to get to the bus station and back to a city. Go somewhere you'll see people doing ordinary things in different ways. I remember a man buying an orange soda from the street vendor in Bangkok. Instead of giving the man the can, the vendor poured the orange soda into a plastic bag and poked a hole in it with a straw. The man buying a soda didn't react and I realized that this was how things were done. An ordinary thing was made new again.

OF course, there are big things you can experience. While walking through a rhinoceros preserve in Nepal my guide and I heard a low rumble from the side of the road. The guide grabbed my arm and pulled me off the road, 20 or 30 yards into the bush. When we stopped he said, “That was a tiger. That kind of growl means it just killed a deer and was warning us not to get closer because it was eating.” Get a few moments like that if you can.

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Have you had any other jobs before you decided to become a writer?

I'm like most writers which means I had a string of odd jobs. I tarred roofs in Houston, worked in bookstores, sold fire extinguishers over the phone and worked in warehouses. The warehouse jobs are best. You got a work order which told you what pallets to put where and you did it, usually with a forklift. As long as you moved things where they were supposed to be people left you alone. I loved that.

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How would you describe your education?

My education is pretty spotty. Most of the interesting things I learned I learned on my own. They tossed me out of college. Twice. The first time because I called one of the teachers a fraud (an opinion I stand behind that to this day). The second time they threw me out for non-attendance of class. I'd became so bored and depressed by college that I simply stopped going. The only thing I'm grateful for in my college experience is that I saw a flyer for the Clarion science fiction writers workshop on a bulletin board. The deadline for that year had already passed by I applied for the next year and got on what was my first attempt at a serious science fiction story. It was horrible but they let me in. Clarion was and is great writing boot camp experience. Of course, it still took me five more years to sell my first story.

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Who would you want to play Sandman Slim if a movie was made?

A Sandman Slim movie is in development right now. I won't say who should play him or what Sandman Slim looks like. If you look at the books I give you some broad strokes of his appearance but it was important to me to leave a lot of room for readers imaginations to fill in the details. I want everyone to have their own Stark. I love it when fans tell me what they think Stark looks like because the range is amazing. People have said everything from Tom Waits to Jason Statham. Good for them. Make Stark anything you want him to be.

 

Thanks for doing the interview Richard. I'll be getting a copy of "Aloha from Hell" when it comes out in October.

Lead Programmer For The Sidewalk Film Festival Rachel Morgan

Since its debut in 1999, filmmakers from across the country and around the world have come to Birmingham to screen their work at Sidewalk and have been thrilled to discover fresh, enthusiastic crowds eager to devour new independent cinema.

With nine venues located within Birmingham’s historic Theatre District (featuring the newly restored Alabama Theatre, a 2,200 seat movie palace built by Paramount in 1927), spontaneity rules the schedule of Sidewalk attendees. Low-priced weekend passes provide easy access to Sidewalk venues, encouraging attendees to seek out new films and sample programming they may not otherwise see. The result is a crowd rich in diversity and united in a hunger for new film.

In 2006, the Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival was honored to recognize writer/director John Sayles and producer Maggie Renzi for their more than two decades of collaboration in independent film, which includes such acclaimed indie classics as THE BROTHER FROM ANOTHER PLANET, MATEWAN, PASSION FISH, LONE STAR, LIMBO and the Sidewalk 2004 Opening Night Film, SILVER CITY.

Other past attendees of the festival include: John C. Reilly (CHICAGO, MAGNOLIA, TALLADEGA NIGHTS), Peter Gilbert (HOOP DREAMS), Amber Benson (BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER), Mary Kay Place (THE BIG CHILL), Mary Lynn Rajbuski (24, PUNCH DRUNK LOVE, SWEET HOME ALABAMA), Dash Mihok (THE THIN RED LINE, ROMEO + JULIET), Dan Myrick (BLAIR WITCH PROJECT), Vincent Kartheiser (ER, ANOTHER DAY IN PARADISE, ANGEL), Chris Gore (IFC, FilmThreat.com), Daniel Wallace (BIG FISH), Gill Holland (HURRICANE STREETS), Adrian Grenier (HBOs ENTOURAGE, Woody Allens CELEBRITY), Louise Fletcher (ONE FLEW OVER THE CUKOOS NEST), David Keith (AN OFFICER AND A GENTLEMEN), Chris Mulkey (TWIN PEAKS) and many more up and coming award winning filmmakers and stars.

From the Filmmakers’ Reception and the Filmmakers’ Retreat to a myriad of breakfasts, field trips, parties and galas, Sidewalk connects filmmakers. The atmosphere at Sidewalk is electric with creativity and collaboration as filmmakers and film-lovers mix and mingle between screenings, participate in panel discussions, grab a bite to eat at the Sidewalk Café, or simply enjoy a brew at the Sidewalk Music Café @ Speakeasy 1920.

• One of TIME magazine’s FILM FESTIVALS FOR THE REST OF US.

• One of Chris Gore’s BEST VACATION FILM FESTIVALS in the Ultimate Film Festival Survival Guide.

• "BEST KEPT SECRET" in MovieMaker Magazine.



Did you always want to work in the film industry?

Yep, I always wanted to do something related to film - ever since I was a little kid though it took me a while to realize that such was possible.

What inspired you to work at the Sidewalk Film Festival?

Hmmmm by default I suppose. Sidewalk is the only Festival in Birmingham (and coincidentally one of the best in the world) and when I moved back to Birmingham several years ago I wanted to be involved with the Festival as I was pursuing my Masters in film and had been working in the industry for a while and love film. So I served on the screening committee for Sidewalk and then was asked, about 2 years later, to co-program (with my programming partner Kyle McKinnon) the Festival and, of course, I thought it would be fun and agreed.

What is the best thing about programming a festival?

It is like making a huge mixed tape (but with films) and for a lot of people - which is pretty fun. I also really like seeing everything come together - seeing all the films that you have been looking at and thinking about for 6 months, or more, come together and to town with the people who made them in the city where you live, it is pretty neat and kind of surreal. Also there is lots of free pizza.

Who is is your favorite filmmaker?

That is a difficult question - there is not just one I suppose - sometimes Gus Van Sant, in some ways Jonathan Glazer, I have on and off liked David Lynch a lot, Orson Welles and Alfred Hitchcock are geniuses, P.T, Anderson, The Coen Brothers, Wes Craven... Patty Jenkins made a great freakin film, Jane Campion is amazing, so too many to list I guess.

What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants to make it in the movie business?

Be as happy to be a Grip or Production Assistant (or similar) as you would to be a Director and work as hard at being a Grip, Production Assistant (or similar) as you would work if you were directing (as all are of equal importance anyway) and if you do that everything will work out.

What do you like to do besides programming the film festival?

I teach film full time at a community college and manage the media department, I co-teach one class (documentary film) at the University of Alabama and I occasionally go to the movie theater, ride my bike and read a book (or try to).

Have you had any other jobs before you started programming the festival?

Yes, I was a Boom Operator and an Assistant Editor and a Production Assistant and for many years a Producer, mostly, for advertising agencies and an Assistant Instructor and Instructor of all things media.

What sets your film festival apart for other festivals?

Many things sets Sidewalk apart I do think - filmmakers do not come to our Festival to sell their film, so it is not a high tension, ego heavy kind of environment. It is just fun and celebratory and we throw amazing parties - I know lots of festivals say that, but we really, really do. That is why lots of notorious indie film partnerships have formed at Sidewalk and even a marriage or two.

What are some of your favorite American films? Foreign films? Television shows?

American films - lots and lots of them - Birth is at the top of my list, it is an amazing film that I can watch over and over again and can talk for about for hours. General Orders No. 9 is life changing. The last 10 minutes of American Beauty blew my mind and I am still very much into it. Four Eyed Monsters is great, Halloween and A Nightmare on Elm Street will always be true loves of mine. There Will Be Blood, The Royal Tenebaums. I also have interest in particular films and get real into them for a while and then, while I still love the film, move on to others - right now I am really into several of the films in Sidewalk 2011 - Without and Mary Marie come to mind. I have been thinking a lot about Blue Valentine lately as well and Tabloid was amazing. American Movie is terrific. Foreign films - I love Dogtooth and we have an amazing film in the Festival this year called The Robber. Let The Right One In, of course and Run Lola Run is brilliant. I could not possibly list all of my favorites. I do not really like the TV format, it is a bit overwhelming, but Beverly Hills 90210 rules.

How would you describe your film education?

Hmmm well I went to the Savannah College of Art and Design for my undergraduate studies (in film and video) and it was one of the greatest times of my life. I went back several years ago and got my Masters in film critical studies and that too was amazing. I also feel as if every job I have ever had has been an education of sorts, so that is a difficult question to answer without boring you to death.

How would you describe the film "scene" where you live?

Promising but difficult.

How has social media changed the independent film industry?

Social media has changed everything - not just indie film, but everything and I do not think for the best though it has its benefits and certainly it can help filmmakers and festivals in terms of inexpensive marketing. There are so many downsides to social media and I am very conflicted about its general impact. I think the verdict is still out.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

I am not sure

What is the film submission process like?

We use withoutabox.com - filmmakers fill out the form(s) online and send in a screener (we have not moved to online screening yet, because the service is not yet functional for us). We have a committee of about 40 people - split in to docs, narratives and shorts and they help us (me and my programming partner, Kyle) sort through the 500+ entries that we receive every year.

How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

In a general sense I suppose that indie films tend to be more the vision of one person (or a few people) and mainstream, 'Hollywood' films tend to be the vision of lots of people - many stockholders trying to predict what will sell to the masses. That leads to a lot of little differences. Generally, I guess it could be compared to a handmade item versus an assembly line made item - some similarities, but one has more heart than the other.

You could go back in time and see any classic film being made. Which film would it be and why?

Any of them, that would be amazing. Seeing George Melies creating A Trip To The Moonwould blow my mind because of how strange and interesting film was at that time, The Lumiere Brothers shooting their first little bit of film because how incredible must it have been to see something like the moving image for the first time. Citizen Kane, of course, of course, of course because - Orson Welles and not much more is needed, that would be magical.

What's your favorite movie quote and why?

There are about a hundred lines from Valley Girl that I try to incorporate into my everyday language. In the first 5 minutes of the film one of the characters says "like he is not so awesome" - there is no better way to describe something that is not so awesome. From there the film is packed with amazing lines/quotes. Also from The Wild Life (1984) the line "It's Casual" which was trying to be the "totally awesome" line from Fast Times At Ridgemont High, but did not stick, perhaps because it was said by Chris Penn instead of Sean Penn, but it's casual.

You could have any super power. What would it be and why?

X-Ray vision of course - Las Vegas

What is your opinion on movie remakes?

I much prefer originality and I think that most current remakes do not do the original justice (let me site Rob Zombies blasphemous attempt at remaking Halloween), but I do like to see something done well and sometimes that happens, I enjoyed the remake of The Hills Have Eyes, for example.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

They are often very good, they can be if done well. I tend to prefer interpretation to adaptation, it works out better. Maximum Overdrive was based on a short story by Stephen King called Trucks, That Evening Sun on a short story - short stories tend to serve as nice cinematic content as do songs (The Indian Runner is based on a Bruce Springsteen song). Also if it is a bad book why not - for example Twilight (yep, I am referencing Twilight) is a horrid book, but the films are sickly entertaining at least - go ahead hate, I referenced Twilight. So overall I have no problem with movie adaptations, it depends on the film and the book I suppose.

Thanks for doing the interview Rachel. For more information on the Sidewalk Film Festival check out http://almovingimage.org/sidewalk-fest.html.

Producers/Directors/Editors Joke and Biagio

Wife and husband team Joke and Biagio are best known in the unscripted world for executive producing "Scream Queens" on VH1, "Commercial Kings with Rhett and Link" on IFC (currently airing Friday Nights at 10pm 9 central) and the upcoming documentary series "Caged" on MTV. Other credits include "Beauty and the Geek" and "Oh Baby, Now What?" The duo earned their documentary wings under acclaimed filmmaker R.J. Cutler ("The War Room," "The September Issue") and honed their reality TV skills working with luminaries like Mark Burnett. Their company, Joke Productions, Inc., is growing fast. They blog and tweet about making film and TV at http://www.jokeandbiagio.com and @JokeAndBiagio. You can see their Kickstarter campaign for Dying to do Letterman, featuring Jon Reiss' book "Think Outside the Box Office" here: http://kck.st/r7rDZP

What is the current project you are working on?

Right now, we're bringing our six-year passion project, a feature-length documentary Dying to do Letterman, to the world. It's just been invited to compete for an Academy Award by the International Documentary Association at this year's prestigious program DocuWeeks. The movie's about stand-up comedian Steve Mazan, whose life-long dream was to perform comedy on David Letterman's show. However, his quest gets far more urgent when he's diagnosed with cancer and told he might only have 5 years to live. We self funded the film, and right now we're trying to raise $100,000 on Kickstarter to put the movie in theaters ourselves. We're at about $47,000 with a little over a month to go in the campaign. People can help bring the movie to a theater near them by joining our campaign here: http://kck.st/r7rDZP

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

Biagio: No, I wanted to be an actor at first, but after a brief stint on Nickelodeon's Kenan and Kel (while still delivering pizzas for Pizza Hut as a main source of income!) I decided I wanted to be behind the camera.

Joke: I thought I would become the president of Flanders. Long story.

What inspired you to become filmmaker?

Biagio: I'd written a play that had won a Young Playwright's Festival in Cleveland and been produced. I wanted to make that play into a movie, and it all began there.

What is the best thing about being one?

Joke: Finishing a movie like Dying to do Letterman and seeing Steve's amazing story touch audience's everywhere.

What is the worst thing about being one?

Biagio: Wondering if it will be another six years until we finish our next film!

What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?

Joke: Oi, a lot. Our first project together was a feature film called "Me and Grandma" based on Biagio's play. Next was a feature documentary we produced about the Star Wars phenomenon called "A Galaxy Far, Far Away" which had a small theatrical distribution. Our foray into unscripted television began with two pilots we made on our own (just the two of us.) We produced, shot, directed, edited, and did the graphics for two pilots we sent blindly to Food Network. One was a wacky cooking show called "Cooking with Beer" and it starred my parents! The other was a cooking / dating show called "Quickest Way to the Heart." Eventually we were able to break into unscripted TV. Some of our big shows were Beauty and the Geek and VH1's Scream Queens. All in all, I guess counting feature films, tv series, and pilots a little over 20.

Who is your favorite filmmaker?

Biagio: I plead the 5th.

Joke: Ditto.

How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker?

Biagio: We've met so many incredible people, and been to places we'd never dreamed we'd end up -- the jungles of Guatemala, the secret tunnels underneath Caesar's Palace in Vegas, the back room of a comedy club with Arsenio Hall and Jay Leno -- places we would never dream of seeing. Becoming a filmmaker has allowed us to experience life on a hyper-real level, and we're grateful for every moment of it.

What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants to make it in the movie business?

Biagio: GO MAKE STUFF. We have an entire blog dedicated to breaking in to the business at http://www.jokeandbiagio.com We call it "Hands-On Producing." I don't care what your ideas are, I don't care what you are "thinking" about doing, I care about what you've done. Walk into my office and show me a kick ass piece of tape you've put together. Something you're so proud of you'd show it to Spileberg himself. Otherwise, don't waste anyone's time, especially your own. Too many "wannabes" talk about making movies. Aspiring filmmakers are not "wannabes." Aspiring filmmakers go make films.

Joke: Ditto.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

Biagio: Believe it or not, I was a star basketball player (in 8th grade, anyway!) I love to get out and shoot some hoops when I can. I've also been learning to program iPhone apps and mac apps, and hope one day to release some of them. We're also going to be self-publishing some books on the Kindle platform soon.

Joke: I love photography, traveling to small towns and discovering new places, and watching Battlestar Galactica.

Have you had any other jobs before you decided to become a filmmaker?

Biagio: Crazy jobs! I performed singing telegrams for Eastern Onion in Ohio, dressed up as Tweety Bird and the Talking Christmas Tree at the mall, Barney and the Green Power ranger at kids parties, washed dishes, bagged groceries, delivered pizzas, and once tried to sell cigars at a telemarketing gig that lasted 56 minutes. I also edited actor's demo reels out of our one bedroom apartment in Hollywood, and actually met Steve Mazan (subject of Dying to do Letterman) when he hired me to edit his comedy reel.

Joke: I was an assistant to Gale Anne Hurd (producer of Terminator, Armageddon, and AMC's The Walking Dead) and worked at a talent management group for a while. A little more tame than Biagio's work history.

What are some of your favorite American films? Foreign films? Television shows?

Biagio: American: Pulp Fiction, Tombstone, Raiders of the Lost Ark Foreign: Cinema Paradiso TV Shows: The Wire, Psych, Game of Thrones, season 1 of The Shield, Boston Med

Joke: American: Braveheart, Foreign: Daens (Flemish) TV Shows: Friday Night Lights, The Wire, Rome, The Good Wife, Hard Knocks

How would you describe your film education?

Biagio: Learn by doing. Period. Film school was basically useless. See http://www.jokeandbiagio.com

Joke: Varied.

How would you describe the film "scene" where you live?

Biagio: Well, we're lucky to live in Los Angeles, so they do make a few movies here. But to us, the film scene is really the internet: Twitter, Facebook, our blog, places like Kickstarter -- that's where the action happens, people are getting noticed, and we're making real relationships every single day.

How has social media changed the independent film industry?

Joke: Well, it's built a community of people who want to make movies no matter what, and could care less about traditional models. I think that's a good thing. More interesting projects are getting made, filmmakers are finding new audiences, and people are finding creative ways to network and get themselves noticed.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

Biagio: Well, clearly, we're all for it! We're in the middle of a great experiment, using Kickstarter to actually distribute our film. We're a few weeks in and have raised almost $47,000. We hope the community will come out and help us reach $100,000, which will allow us to follow the plan in Jon Reiss' book Think Outside the Box Office, and put the movie in theaters across the entire country.

What is the casting process like?

Joke: grueling, whether for a scripted film or a competition show like Scream Queens or Beauty and the Geek. You see thousands of people. So many are great. So few spots are available. And unless you're making an indie film where you get final say, you're casting by committee. There's between 10 and 20 people that need to sign off on a final cast. By the end, your drained, but hopefully you've found the best cast possible.

How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

Biagio: Upside: You get final say on everything. Downside: Everything's on your shoulders. A lot of indies tend to think less of the studio system -- but it's not without it's perks! Sometimes you just want to make a great project and not worry about marketing, legal, distribution, craft service, holding a boom pole yourself. Then again, nothing beats taking a project from the very beginning to the very end and knowing it's the truest manifestation of your original vision for the film.

You could go back in time and see any classic film being made. Which film would it be and why?

Biagio: Raiders of the Lost Ark. No movie has inspired my imagination more. Fight scenes, vintage airplanes, the wrath of God, and Harrison Ford stapled a hat to his head! Who wouldn't want to see that?

What's your favorite movie quote and why?

Joke: "You're gonna need a bigger boat." Sums up how you're never as prepared as you think you are -- especially in our line of work.

You could have any super power. What would it be?

Biagio: Convince Joke I'm always right.

What is your opinion on movie remakes?

Biagio: I'm all for them if they're good. Too many times the film is just "product" made to tap into a pre-existing audience. But give a remake to a real filmmaker and magic can happen. Look what Scorcsese did with "The Departed" (Based on Hong Kong crime-thriller 'Infernal Affairs') and "Cape Fear" (Based on J. Lee Thompson's thriller from 1962.) A remake can be great -- but it's up to someone to decide they're making a real movie. And don't forget John Carpenter's The Thing -- pretty good remake!

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

Joke: same as movie remakes -- someone has to go in and make the book into a motion picture. We can name a hundred movies that were poorly adapted, but then you have filmmakers who make magic like A Clockwork Orange, The English Patient, and one of our favorites, L.A Confidential.

What are the pros and cons when it comes to working with your spouse?

Biagio: Pros -- with as hard as we work, we'd never get to see each other unless we worked together, and I simply couldn't function without seeing Joke for most of my waking life.

Cons: Every time I see how awesome Joke is it reminds me I married out of my league.

Joke: Pros -- My parents worked together, my grandparents worked together -- I never knew anything else. For me, there's nothing better than sharing my life and dreams with Biagio knowing everything we do we do together.

Cons: It can be hard to get out of "work mode" -- we're always working. When we go to bed at night, get up in the morning, have lunch or dinner, the conversation is usually work related. It's important to remember to take time for us.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Biagio: We're so grateful to the community for supporting our Kickstarter project in such a big way. No matter when you read this article, please head on over to http://kck.st/r7rDZP. Even if you think the campaign might have ended, it hasn't. We're trusting the community to help us put Dying to do Letterman in theaters, and anyone will always be able to donate at least $1, whether at Kickstarter, or another site we'll set up. Whatever the deal, we'll let you know at the Kickstarter page.

Thanks for doing the interview. I will spread the word about your campaign for Dying to do Letterman.  On a side note: I heard Joke does a really good impression of a Cylon. I'm a big fan of BSG as well.

Author Sharon Williams

Sharon is a native of New England but now resides in North Carolina. She is married with 1 son. She is owned by a flock of 8 birds and 2 hamsters. She is working on her first MS which is a children's book based on her Amazon parrot Jasper.

Learn more about Sharon by clicking on the links below:

Sharon's Blog: http://newenglandmuse.wordpress.com/

Twitter: @NewEngland_Muse

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sharon-Williams/195232693863109

What is the current project you are working on?

I am working on my first MS, it's a children's book. It is based on my Amazon parrot Jasper. It is set in the Amazon.

Did you always want to be a writer?

No, it had never occurred to me- I had always thought this was a field set aside for people who had skill and talent

What inspired you to become writer?

My husband told one of my friends that I wrote really well. A year or so after I started thinking of a story in my head and it would not go away. Later that year I had 2 surgeries within 3 months of each other( not related).  Having time to recover, I decided to put my thoughts on paper. I have been writing ever since, from short stories to full blown books.

What is the best thing about being a writer?

You can write about anything- from personal history to things you know. A writer can make up anything with different scenarios that makes their readers think.  I have always been an avid reader.  The thought that one day I can be one of those writers that bring people joy excites me.

What is the worst thing about being one?

The process one has to go through once a book is complete. So many hoops to jump through, it is not an easy business especially for the first time writer like myself. The easiest part is the writing no doubt 

What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?

I am working on my first MS, in the process of editing and fine tuning it. However, I have a nice collection of short stories. Down the road, I plan on making two of them into a book.

Who is your favorite author?

Oh an easy question for me- Stephen King. I am from Maine and bias. However, I do love his works. Agatha Christie, James Patterson, Bentley Little and Greg Ilse are other authors I follow.  These are the books you will see mostly in my library.  However being an avid reader- I read basically anything between two binders.
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How has your life changed since you became a writer?

It has consumed me. I look at things differently now. Before I started writing, I was going through the motions of life. I see things through a different perspective now. Looking at people, I now go hmm how can I make that into a story?  I wonder what they are thinking and doing.  I use my senses more now.  I look at everything as a potential story.  For example, I have a long going war with the squirrels in my back yard.  I am not a fan.  Yet  I wrote a short story( I am on page 23 and still going) in 3rd person on what they thought of me.  It made me rethink, so yeah my life has not been the same.

What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants to become a writer?
I know it sounds like a cliche but this has been the best advice I have ever received. Write on what you know.  It is really that easy.  A writer just needs to know a little tidbit and turn it into a short story or book.

What do you like to do besides writing?

I am owned by 8 birds and 2 hamsters. I love to read,take pictures,walk, exercise, go to the movies and listen to music. I am a budding bird watcher and learning to crochet on the side.  I run a book club in town but also am a member of one at a local library. I am a huge sports fan. I love baseball, basketball, hockey and football.  I like to stay busy needless to say.

Have you had any other jobs before you decided to become a writer?

My jobs have varied from janitor to cashier to office assistant to chemist




How would you describe your education?

I have a BS degree in Chemistry

How would you describe the writing "scene" where you live?

There are many writers in my area. In fact, I am a member of 2 writing groups. The need and want is here.

How has social media changed the publishing film industry?

It helps writers promote themselves. The writers gets to "meet" and talk with fellow writers. Everyone knows writing is a solitary job- the need for social interaction is there.  Places like Twitter and Facebook and the likes gives writers a chance to share information and ask question. Ideas can be exchanged and a network is formed. It is so beneficial mentally and emotionally.

What is your thought process like when your writing?

I lose all track of time. The world could be coming to an end and I would be oblivious to it.  When I am writing, I envision the scenes in my head. I try to imaging the reality of what I am writing down on paper.  I think of different options, scenes and problems. I will write them down on the side in case I can use them later.  I tend to write by long hand- the flow works better for me. It consumes me and  I love it.

You could have any book in the world. Which would it be?

The bible- hands down.

You could be any animal. Which would you be?

Anyone who knows me would say a bird and they be right. I have owned or rather been owned by birds since 1998, they are my inspiration- relaxation

You could have any super power. What would it be?

To fly

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

Unless the author helps with the screenwriting or does it themselves- then I tend to worry they will mess it up.

There have been some amazing movies that have done honor to the book they are adapting from- but it is a hit or miss .

You could have any first edition book. Which would it be?

Drawing blank

 

 

 

Thanks Sharon for doing the interview. I wish you the best of luck with your book. Please let me know when it is published. I'm sure my niece would love to read it.