Tamir Yardenne Producer, Founder and CEO of Tamirfilms Ltd

In 2007, with a dream of creating quality work, Tamir launched Tamirfilms Ltd., a film and TV production company.  As Chief Executive Officer, he is responsible for the worldwide production, marketing and distribution of all Tamirfilms entertainment, including motion pictures, television, cable, syndication and home entertainment. As a teenager Tamir worked in musical theatre in upstate New York and on Cape Cod, singing and dancing in summer stock theatre at Bucks County Playhouse, Woodstock Playhouse and the Falmouth Playhouse. He performed in the chorus of "My One And Only" and "West Side Story". Tamir was given a scholarship to attend the prestigious New York University Tisch School of The Arts, where he received his BFA.

While attending New York University he was asked to join the Negro Ensemble Company, where he performed several Off-Off Broadway productions. He traveled to London to do Satre's “No Exit”, where he received rave reviews. Tamir is now working in Los Angeles and can be seen starring with Jada Pinkett Smith on “Hawthorne” as Vernon. His past television guest spots include, “Dexter”, “NYPD Blue”, “The Young and the Restless”, “The Pretender”, “Ghost Stories”, “That's Life”, “New York

  

What is the current project you are working on?

Silencio A short film that deals with the social ills of today. A raw film of  hope and redemption.

How do you handle rejection?

I cry

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

No, I wanted to be a star!

 What inspired you to become filmmaker?

Out of necessity, being an African American with dread locks I wasn’t getting those  amazing roles I wanted. I decided to stop waiting for my agent to call and created Tamirfilms to produce the kinds of parts I wanted play.

 What is the best thing about being one?

Your creative juices are always flowing. It makes life more colorful because you see possibility in everything. The thought of suspending your idea of disbelief just amazes me. I love giving others the chance to work that turns me on.

What is the worst thing about being one?

Begging for money to fund your projects. We should all be independently wealthy.

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

I don’t want to count I may start crying again LOL!

 Who is your favorite filmmaker?

Ang Lee, love him. David Lynch, crazy sick mind?

 How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker?

I live my passion now. Waking up doing what you love there is nothing like it. I wish this for everybody on the planet.

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

If this is what makes you get up in the morning, DO IT! BE PREPARED TO WORK!

“Be bold and the mighty forces will come to your aid.” I tell that to myself when things aren’t manifesting as quickly as I would like and when the fear starts to come up.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

My first love is acting so when I’m not behind the scenes my other passion is creating a character and seeing it come to life.

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

Are you kidding – Waiter.

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

All David Lynche’s films, Color Purple, Six Sense, Face Off - Nicolas Cage was brilliant,  Like water for chocolate, Hidden tiger crouching dragon. True Blood fan all the way.

 How would you describe your film education?

I’m a NYU Grad so our education in the industry was well rounded. We had to do it all. By being on set in front of the camera and getting frustrated by the lack of skills or professionalism I would start to take charge. I’d hang out on set or come in on my days off and learn everyone’s job.

What is the casting process like?

I’m just as nervous auditioning actors as I am auditioning for my self. I want everyone to win.

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

LOL like a soap opera and I’m Erica Kane.

 How has social media changed the independent film industry?

It leveled the playing field. It is a great time to be making film, so exciting.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

I’m so in gratitude to crowdfunding. We are not all trust fund babies or come from homes with money so if you can get folks to stand behind you and help you finance a project that your committed to then I’m all for it. It’s got a bad rap but those are just chicken heads with big opinions.

 How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

Money vs no money, crap vs art! Did I say that? LOL

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

Definitely not in the sixties, not a good time for black folks in film. Although there were a few Kats who were doing their thing in spite of the big studios and it’s portrayal of the Negro.




“I’m not mad at  you, I’m mad at the dirt” from Mommie Dearest. That was one crazy $%%$!

Do you believe in life on other planets?

It’s not in the bible so no.

Do you ever wish you had a super power? If so, what would it be and why?

I wish I could disappear, that way I could see who’s talking about me LOL!

 What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

Look, there is an audience for them otherwise they wouldn’t get made. We need to remember that we vote with our dollars so as long as we keep showing up they’ll keep making them.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptations?

Love them. Sometimes ya just don’t want to read, just lemme see the film.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Our vision at Tamirfilms is to be of service by being a loving, playful, generous and powerful example of the absolute joy that is available to us. Socially conscious filmmaking is our tag line and I hope we can rise up to meet it.

Charles Simons III

Name: Charles Simons,III

Title (on Deader Days): Executive Producer

Company Assoc: Metronome Pictures

Contact info:Charles@metronomepictures.com

What is the current project you are working on? Deader Days and DuhmFownd

How do you handle rejection? Rejection is a natural and necessary part of the process. You move forward with acceptance, but you learn more from failure.

Did you always want to be a filmmaker? No, I always wanted to be a Scholar of Arthurian Mythology, I ended up in Real Estate Sales, and now do movies.... Slighty different. =D

 

What inspired you to become filmmaker? The chance to use all the skills I learned in business, sales, marketing, creative writing and showmanship all in one place.

 

What is the best thing about being one? Twitter. So many cool people on Twitter.

 

What is the worst thing about being one? Twitter. It sucks up all my time. Free or otherwise. =D

What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on? Close 10 or 12. Most never got off the ground, that why we started using IndieGoGo.com to promote and get financing.

 

Who is your favorite filmmaker? Sean Penberthy

How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker? I work more hours and actually watch movies. Search #BladeRunner on Twitter for my thought stream as I watched the movie for the first time. @TearsinRain78 favorited this comment: "@MetronomePics: "So everytime a replicant dies a dove gets its wings?"

 

What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants to make it in the movie business? Don't assume its easy, come ready to work, leave your ego at the door and never stop learning. I know you said one piece of advice, but you need all 4 of those things working in tandem to make it.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking? Play with my 5 month old baby girl Joleisa Lynn

Have you had any other jobs before you decided to become a filmmaker? Several, sales, real estate investor, sales, sales, oh and sales. =D

How would you describe your film education? Sink or swim, trial by fire, school of hard knocks. One of those is fine. =D

What are some of your favorite American films? Foreign films? Television shows? Favorite American film was Tombstone with Kurt Russel and Val Kilmer. Foreign Films.... Those are like porn right? Television Shows: Stargate Sg-1, The West Wing, Stargate: Atlantis, Stargate: Universe, Eureka, Arrested Development, Avatar the Last AirBender, Batman The Animated Series, Spiderman The Animated Series.

 

How would you describe the film "scene" where you live? If i ever went outside i would better be able to answer that.

How has social media changed the independent film industry? I believe that is has changed everything. It has allowed collaboration and sharing of ideas that has raised the bar for a lot of what indie films can do. @FansOfFilm said a rising tide lifts all boats ( i know hes not the original author) and he said that in regards to Indie Film makers. We can reach the top with out climbing over one another, but instead helping one another. Removing the physical limitations of distance through twitter and Facebook have allowed us to connect to the higher energies of creativity shared by all artists.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding? Its not the only way to get funding, it may not even be the best way, but it is the most fun. Metronome Pictures recently successfully funded Duhmfownd on IndieGoGo. During the month long campaign i added over 300 new followers on twitter and about 100 new fans on the Facebook page. With all these new contacts I have had the joy of developing whole new relationships that i wouldnt trade for a bigger budget.

 

How does independent film differ from the mainstream? I have never worked mainstream so i cant speak to that end, but i feel that a lot the differences are self imposed from both sides. The big studios aren't taking the big risks and making high quality story driven productions, but at the same time I see a lot of indies taking the risks but not adding a business element to the production. I think that over time, Indies everywhere will start to make changes about the way they do the "Business" you already see some it happening with the addition of PMD's.

 

You could go back in time and see and film being made. Which film would it be and why? Gone with the Wind. its my Mom's Favorite movie of all time and I could tell her about it. Also, im pretty sure i could learn to charm the pants off of any woman by hanging around Clark Gable for a few weeks. =D

Do you watch "The Walking Dead"? I don't have alot of time anymore to catch TV. If you noticed, all of my favorite TV shows are either discontinued or on the way out. =D I plan to watch it when its on blu-ray or Netflix.

 

What's your favorite movie quote and why?

"You're a Daisy if you do." -Val Kilmer - Doc Holiday - Tombstone

"Nonsense, I have not begun to defile myself." Also Val Kilmer- Tombstone

"You tell them the laws coming, you tell them I'm coming, and hells coming with me." Kurt- Wyatt- also Tombstone

So many great lines in that movie.

 What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels? They had better be done right or you will have one very disappointed movie goer.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions? See above. They did a decent job with the Harry Potter Adaptations and i respect that. But LOTR was probably one of the best adaptations I've seen.

Is there anything else you would like to add? Thanks so much for giving us the opportunity to blog with you. We are currently raising funds for #DeaderDays on IndieGoGo.com We have already raised $2750 and are the 2nd most popular project on IndieGoGo.com right now. http://bit.ly/DedrDys.

Actress Lauren Leonelli

Name: Lauren Leonelli

Title/Role: Lisa

What is the current project you are working on?

I am currently working on the role of Lisa for the web series "Deader Days".

How do you handle rejection?

I handle rejection selectively. Sometimes I am rejected for something or by someone and I feel completely un phased. Other times I will feel the effects of being rejected even before it happens. I think it's the anticipation of being let down that stings worse than the actual rejection. I'm sure this all depends on how I am feeling about myself at the moment.

Did you always want to be an actress?

I knew when I was very young that I liked to perform. I'm not sure that I articulated that into the desire to want to be an actress. I remember being young and wanting to be a nurse because I thought their uniforms were cute. So obviously that was a phase. I think I knew I wanted to be an actress when I was about 8 or 9 years old.

What inspired you to become actress?

I was really inspired by Judy Garland in "The Wizard of Oz". I remember watching her and thinking "I want to do that" and then going out in to my grandparents backyard and trying to find something that looked like a barn in Kansas so I could recreate scenes and sing "Somewhere Over The Rainbow". Also, I was OBSESSED with her ruby slippers.

What is the best thing about being one?

The best thing about being an actress is the feeling of freedom when you really put yourself into a role and you're able to find a place where you're not in your head about you and you allow yourself to be honest in that moment and tell a story. It's not easy to do but when it happens, it feels powerful.

What is the worst thing about being one?

The worst thing about being an actress is the lack of job security. My brain works in a very organized and stable fashion so it's hard to let go of that when it comes to financial planning.

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

I believe I have worked on around 40 projects. That is an estimate I could be way off on either end.

Who is your favorite actor/actress?

My favorite actress is Meryl Streep. This is not a very creative answer but she really is the best. I admire her stillness and her ease. She is so much fun to watch no matter what type of role she plays. I really enjoy Robert Downey Jr's work as well.

How has your life changed since you became an actress?

My life has changed in ways that I never would have anticipated. I believe that learning how to become the best actor comes from being willing to show people what you look like in your most private moments. This takes a tremendous amount of honesty, on many levels, and you must be willing to learn a lot about who you are in order to show people the most honest parts of the real you. In my experience as an actress, I learned more valuable lessons about myself, other people and life in general than I did about acting techniques and tools.

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

Show up and be honest. It sounds simple but it really isn't. Once you can consistently do both of those things, then that's when you're ready to start making things happen.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

At the risk of making myself sound like a total dork, I love organizing and checking things off of a to do list. I like to spend time with my friends, I love my cat and I love to dance.

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

I have had other jobs besides acting and some of them have been in retail, which I now know I am better in the other side of the register. I have many years of experience in child care and I am currently a nanny.

How would you describe your film education?

I have a B.A. in Theatre from The University of California, San Diego. I learned a lot about every aspect of theatre and the history but I did take some classes that focused on directors and film and television, which were always very exciting for me because at the time all of my experience was in theatre. Learning about the television and film industry in college solidified my desire to move to LA and have a go at Hollywood.

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

As I said earlier I love "The Wizard of Oz". It's such a beautiful film and the story is eternal. I am a child of the 80's so I have a place in my heart for most of the John Hughes films. I think "Friends" is one of the best sitcoms in the history of television right next to "I Love Lucy", both of which I can watch reruns of for hours on end.

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

I live in the Hollywood area so there are a lot of auditions and shoots happening near by. I notice that if you listen to people's conversations in restaurants, coffee shops, grocery stores etc, 95% of things you over hear are phrases like "I just spoke with the director and he said..." or "I shot a scene in that film" or "Let me call my agent". It's all around all the time.

How has social media changed the independent film industry?

I think social media has changed the industry in general. In particular it has changed the world of actors and film makers in the developmental stages of their careers by offering them a place to broadcast their projects that can then be seen by the masses in a matter of hours. This can then result in recognition and respect from the actors and film makers that have had higher levels of success. It connects the worlds together. It takes the excuses out of not having the right resources or enough funding and it's a motivator to keep producing work because it's so readily available.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

My opinion on crowd funding is that it is effective and it's an awesome way to get lots of different types of people involved in the process creating movies. I have had friends that have made films and used crowd funding to help with the budget and they have had great success. If you believe in the art of film making and the story behind a particular project, then why would you hesitate to help someone, even if it's in a small way, turn a dream into a reality?

How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

I think that when you watch an independent film you can see the hunger and desire of everyone involved. Blockbuster studio films have a lot of people involved in what the final product looks like, and sometimes they turn out to be amazing history making films, but because independent film making comes across as a more intimate process to me, I think you can really see angst of everyone involved and that can help add that extra touch of fascination that you can't quite put your finger on...but you know it when you see it.

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

I'm going to have to go with "The Wizard of Oz". It must be on my brain but I have heard so many stories about the making of this film. To see the sets, costumes and actors in real life would be incredible. I'm sure anything that Liz Taylor made in the 50's and 60's would have been fantastic to see as well.

Do you believe in life on other planets?

Well, as a matter of fact I think I do believe in life on other planets. I think it's pretty self centered to think that humans are the only other life existing in the whole universe. I'm not saying I believe in whole other worlds...but I'm also not saying I don't...

Do you watch "The Walking Dead"?

I have not seen "The Walking Dead" but I have heard great things about it. It's something I need to watch. That will be put on my next to do list.

What's your favorite movie quote and why?

Jim Carrey in "Dumb and Dumber"...the police officer says "Pull over" and Lloyd Christmas replies "No, it's a cardigan but thanks for noticing." Followed by Harry's "Yeah, killer boots man". I'm sure your were looking for some esoteric quote from "Citizen Cane" but this is the first thing that came to my mind and it makes me laugh. Nothing is better than that.

What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

My opinion on movie remakes and sequels is that of the majority of the population. They are usually never as good as the original. I can not currently think of any sequels or remakes that I enjoyed more than the first.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

My opinion on book to movie adaptions is the same as above. It's just never as good as it is when it's all being played out in your own mind. I guess there is just no way for someone who doesn't know your connection with the story and it's characters to retell you that same story and expect a better and more authentic reaction then when you first read it. It's almost impossible.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

If you like zombies and you want to laugh, then keep your eyes open for the web series "Deader Days" and become a loyal fan. You can find us on http://bit.ly/DedrDys if you would like to donate to the making of our project. You will not be disappointed!

Actor Jayce Alexander Basques

Name: Jayce Alexander Basques

Title/Role: Daryl

Contact info: twitter.com/jjjayce

What is the current project you are working on?

-Deader Days, a fantastic macabre comedy, also and indie feature called Speak To Me in Poetry, as well as two indie features I'm working on.

How do you handle rejection?

-Nothing is good or bad until you label it. So handling rejection should be handled the way you handle acceptance; however, there is a lot more to be learned from rejection. In either case, ask yourself: What did you do well? Not so well? What will you do differently next time?

Did you always want to be a actor?

-Being a mimic and observer of people has always been a natural coping mechanism; in my case, my family takes pride in creativity and following passion. Every actor says they always knew they wanted to be one; but I don't quite buy that and I feel actors act for a lot of reasons that came into play later in their lives.

 What inspired you to become actor/actress?

-Probably being interested in stories and people; being apt to diving headlong into work is exhausting especially if you enjoy knowing everything there is to know on a given topic SO film allows you to do so in healthy doses without burning out.

 What is the best thing about being one?

-Working towards earning the right to truly call yourself one. Being a master of a given art requires at least 20 years of deliberate practice; the people who make that commitment know this. Casual hobbyists don't and are often quick and careless with the title of "actor."

 What is the worst thing about being one?

-There are a lot of people that call themselves actors that lack focus and work ethic... which can be tedious. You hear a lot of the first-person singular subject pronoun being thrown around in audition waiting rooms.

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

-Lots. But then again, tons were for practice and some never saw the light of day.

 Who is your favorite actor/actress?

-A few for very different reasons; Cary Grant was handsome and charming but so modest as though he is the only one who doesn't know it! Plus few actors can pull off comedy and drama so well. Paul Newman had a very subtle style, he let the audience come to him. Marlon Brando truly changed film by bridging the gap between movies and the theatre. Clark Gable, Henry Fonda, Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplin are up there for me as well. James Dean was the embodiment of authenticity and living moment to moment in East of Eden.

 How has your life changed since you became a actor?

-As you become more aware of the world around you, you're able to assess your emotions and those of others around you better.

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

-By all means, do it. Don't assume any technique or school is the best, find what works for you and get to work. Audition for everything that interests you and if no one casts you, write your own material. Something you believe in.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

-My buddies and I are touring musicians in a band called DownDownDown and live band for a guy named Damato. We're also starting a brewery.

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

-Just about every day job possible; most recently and executive assistant, pizza delivery guy, graphic designer and attempted to get a gig as a part-time gravedigger; they wouldn't let me work at night and carry around a lantern though.

How would you describe your film education?

-TCM is probably the best free resource for actors and directors. My theatrical training consisted of graduating from The Meisner Technique Studio under Jim Jarrett in San Francisco.

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

-So many!! But let's start off with "The Big Sleep," "Stage Door," "The Great Dictator," "The Awful Truth," "Blow Up," "Cool Hand Luke," "East of Eden," "The Grapes of Wrath," "A Streetcar Named Desire," "Annie Hall..."

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

-I respect my filmmaker friends for their vision, drive and the work they stand for. My scene consists of the artistic family that you stay connected with no matter where you physically are.

 How has social media changed the independent film industry?

-Presumably it has given it a boost - the underdog is typically more apt to adapt to new media in order to survive.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

-What a great concept, like a collective consciousness of cooperation. It's popularity is overwhelming and hopefully it will continue to be a valid option while evolving and gaining further acceptance in the mainstream.

 How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

-The lines are so blurred now. At times indie aims for marketability; while mainstream aims to be him and appealing to the underground. So the grass is always greener... then there are the outliers of the mainstream commercial mega productions and the uncomfortable indie art films so... the breadth of it all is wide but the boundaries are ill-defined.

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

-Either "Citizen Kane," "Casablanca" or "East of Eden..." all of which we're unassumingly on the brink of major breakthroughs.

Do you believe in life on other planets?

-It'd be arrogant to think otherwise. Or at least if there isn't now, when can all agree it is likely at some point in the future or past.

Do you watch "the Walking Dead"?

-I haven't yet, unless I get it on dvd, it is hard to keep a tv schedule. Plus I usually cannot stand most commercial tv and radio. But that show looked interesting.

 What's your favorite movie quote and why?

-Anything from Humphrey Bogart... he has a knack for clever and hilarious lines without ever "delivering a joke."

 What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

-They can have their upsides. A faithful rendition or organic continuation are all good in my book. Squeezing pennies from a franchise in a straight to supermarket dvd release can be sad. Anything done well, with integrity is ok in my book.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

-The consensus I've heard is that the films often fail to live up to the books and people familiar with both tend to be disappointed in one or another. Reading fiction isn't my thing, so my point isn't valid; but I see the book and the movie adaptations to be two distinct and separate creatures.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

-Thank you for talking to us and taking interest in actors and filmmakers. Talking about the craft is what helps us all gain perspective and improve.

Brandon Riess Assistant Director For "Deader Days"

What is the current project you are working on? Deader Days 

How do you handle rejection? With reflection, and leather skin.

Did you always want to be a filmmaker? As far back as I can recall.

What inspired you to become filmmaker? In my adolescence, and still to this moment, I am an introverted person. Instead of being outside in the sun riding Big Wheels with my "friends", I stayed inside and watched movies and television and became engulfed. I idolized what I watched and knew that's what I one day wanted to do with the rest of my life.

What is the best thing about being one? Living my dream, and being able to create something that can entertain people and make them forget their lives while they watch the products we produce.

What is the worst thing about being one? To be successful, like really successful, you must sacrifice the time you once devoted to everything else in your life. Your life and the time you spend making films must become synonymous.

What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on? I would put the number at 26.

Who is your favorite filmmaker? This answer changes every twenty-six minutes, but right now its Christopher Nolan.

How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker? I have a sense of real fulfillment.

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

What do you like to do besides filmmaking? Studying films.

Have you had any other jobs before you decided to become a filmmaker? I "worked" at a grocery store for four years.

How would you describe your film education? Ongoing. I am currently studying at CSUN, but the best schooling is out in the field.

What are some of your favorite American films? Foreign films? Television shows?American FIlms: The Killing, The Godfather, Apocalypse Now, Kill Bill, Zodiac, The Hangover. Foreign Films: Let The Right One In, The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, The Girl Who Played With Fire. Television Shows: Entourage, Boardwalk Empire, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Eastbound and Down.

How would you describe the film "scene" where you live? Very clique-ish and by the books. The books work only some of the time though. Your willingness to say "fuck the books" and go beyond regular means to get a project accomplished is what separates you from those who "fly" and those who "sink".

How has social media changed the independent film industry? Its changed the advertisement aspect, and possibly the exhibitionistic aspect to some regard, but I wouldn't say it has completely overhauled anything yet. Maybe it will, maybe it won't.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding? I lack strong experience with crowdfunding. From what I have seen, sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. Its a good thing to fall back on though, and a great way for anyone to get out their and do their thing. No more excuses.

How does independent film differ from the mainstream? It differs and it doesn't. Sometimes mainstream films lack the passion and substance of independent films because someone didn't literally bleed and spend their entire life's worth of money on it. That's not always the case though, only on occasion. Mainstream films can have a touch as well.

You could go back in time and see and film being made. Which film would it be and why? Apocalypse Now for sure. Those men bled for that piece of fine work. Most people would have died making it; it takes a certain type of filmmaker to keep on going no matter what.

Do you believe in life on other planets? Yes.

Do you watch "The Walking Dead"? No.

What's your favorite movie quote and why? Let me get back to you on that.

What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels? In the right place, at the right time, they can be wonderful. Each case is different. It has to be done with a certain touch.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions? I recently read the novella "Breakfast at Tiffany's". Perfect example of what NOT to do. What a disaster.

Is there anything else you would like to add? No.

Val Neminov Co-Producer

What is the current project you are working on?

Deader Days (http://bit.ly/DedrDys)

How do you handle rejection?

As just another step in this business, you will get a million No's but if you don't give up you will get that one Yes that can change your life. You can't be in this business if your afraid of rejection.

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

No

 What inspired you to become filmmaker?

My best friend and business partner in 10 in 2 Productions, Brandon Riess

 What is the best thing about being one?

Waking up everyday and doing what really makes you happy! Not many people can say that about theirs jobs.

 What is the worst thing about being one?

Long hours and sacrificing a lot of your social life.

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

I honestly cannot recall at this point, if i had to guess over 40 different project, everything from short films, to features, to music videos and commercials.

 Who is your favorite filmmaker?

I love the works of Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino, as well as countless other talented directors and producers.

 How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker?

It became a lot more stressful but at the same time it has became a lot more fast paced, crazy, and definitely more rewarding.

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

Never give up and never settle for no or listen to someone who tells you that you can't do something. You only fail when you stop trying.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

I enjoy hanging with my friends and pretty much doing anything outgoing and exciting. 

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

I used to work at a grocery store and worked at a Starbucks.

How would you describe your film education?

Well I was thrown into it and learned and picked up as I went! When I fell in love with film and knew this what I wanted to do for the rest of my life I applied for CSUN film school which I'm currently attending.

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

Black Hawk Down is one of my favorite films, Dazed and Confused, any Rodriguez or Tarantino film, and of course the classics like Goodfellas and Casino. There are honestly to many to name. Entourage, Scrubs, Boardwalk Empire, and Family Guy  are some of my favorite T.V. shows.

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

I'm lucky to be surrounded by many talented individuals that  I go to school and that I work on projects with, and of course Hollywood is just a 20 minute drive!

 How has social media changed the independent film industry?

It pretty much revolutionized indie filmmaking and opened the doors for networking on a whole new level.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

It is an amazing tool to support indie filmmaking on a whole new scale.

 How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

The biggest way it differs is financially; in the same way you have to rely on friends and outside people to come through for you and dedicate their time and money and equipment for your project with no compensation. And this really shows the people who are in it for the right reasons and who will have your back if you have a million dollar budget or if you have enough to only order a pizza.

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

Without question it would be The Godfather. That film truly revolutionized filmmaking and most films today have in one way or another adopted something from that film.

Do you believe in life on other planets?

It would be ignorant to think we are alone in this vast universe.

Do you watch "The Walking Dead"?

No i haven't.

 What's your favorite movie quote and why?

I'll have to think about this one, too many to pick from.

What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

It's really a hit or miss.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

If done right they are remarkable works of art and really bring the book to life for the audience.

Is there anything else you would like to add? No

FilmmakerTravis Beauchamp

Travis Beauchamp is a 27 year old filmmaker from Mill Valley CA. He's  been making films since he was 8 years old and can't get enough.  Travis graduated in 2006 from UCSC with a degree in Film and Digital Media. Worked at InCA Productions as a production assistant and Associate Producer on the series "Keeping Score". Currently Executive Producer at East Point Pictures, specializing in music videos, non-profit promos and documentaries.Travis is currently producing a documentary series called "The Smash Brothers", about the teenage prodigies who turned a party game into a competition for thousands of dollars - and discovered themselves along the way.

How do you handle rejection?

The most successful people all have one thing in common: abject failures in their wakes. Rejection teaches you what to stand up for and what to fold on.

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

I started making films when I was 8 years old so yeah, I guess always. To me, the process of filmmaking grew right out of "playing pretend" with your friends. You're actively fashioning a universe of your own making by putting images together like that. It's a controlled, personal exploration.

 What is the best thing about being one?

People have to accept your title as Executive Producer even if you're the only one at your company. XD

What is the worst thing about being one?

EVERYONE tells you what you should do. That's the fine line: how much creative input do you take from others until you've sacrificed your art? It's different for every filmmaker.

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

Since I was 8 years old? Well over 100 individual projects. From my first film "The Christmas Chresh", to subversive self-reflective college films to straight up documentary work as Associate Producer for InCA Productions to music videos for Berklee musicians (here's my latest: http://vimeo.com/28798926). I have yet to do porn though...

Who is your favorite filmmaker?

Brendon Small. Hands down amazing writer/director/voice actor.

What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants to

make it in the movie business?

It is always changing. You can approach it from a thousand different angles so don't worry if one path sucks the life out of you - another could be your calling.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

Music and video games. And food. I'm becoming a better cook lately.

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

I still do. I work part time at Patagonia to "make ends meet" (which they don't). Not ideal, but necessary at the moment. And as a company, you can't do much better than Patagonia.

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

Home Movies - nobody does it like Brendon Small. :)

Akira - beautiful, uniquely Japanese self-reflection on technology and social unrest.

Cowboy Bebop - greatest combination of music and animation since Fantasia.

 How would you describe your film education?

Mired in drugs. I did learn a few things in school, so go if you can, but I mostly rediscovered my passion after going to school for it, which is a shame. UCSC offers a great program... it's just they also offer great drugs.

How has social media / crowdfunding changed the independent film industry?

Crowdfunding through sites like Kickstarter or Indie Go Go can be amazingly effective IF you have an audience and the right story to sell. The game has changed since the studio days where one company dictated artistic norms and practices. You could write a dissertation on the subject, but the important thing is that you can now accomplish your goals through many different channels instead of floundering around as a fluffer in LA.

 How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

Mainstream projects have lots of money riding on them, so they must necessarily appeal to the widest possible audience. Ridiculous  movies like Transformers 2 or Battleship or Battle: LA don't need to worry about catering to anything but our basest story expectations - every nationality can comprehend explosions.

Independent projects open the opportunity for connections to be made with a specific community or element of humanity. Not as much riding on it, but also not as much restriction.

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

2001: A Space Odyssey. I imagine Kubrick would be an interesting director to watch, especially on a project of such temporal scale.

 What's your favorite movie quote and why?

"It's game over man! It's just game over!" - I don't think this one needs much explanation. :)

Do you believe in life on other planets?

Absolutely. Though I don't think we will ever be able to make contact with an "intelligent" life form (we share 99% of the same genetic material with chimps, yet the closest we've come to communication isn't what I'd call intelligent).

Do you ever wish you had a super power? If so, what would it be and why?

Hells yeah. Teleportation. Makes everything in life a BILLION times easier.

 What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

Eh. The batting average on sequels isn't that persuasive, but because of the grand slams (Aliens, Terminator 2) I'd leave the door open. Remakes, however, are blatantly stupid and should be punished with banishment.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

I think they can be done well. You just need a filmmaker who truly understands the source material. That much is key.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The future portends a lot of new incredible storytelling mediums - immersive video games where you experience and influence a story as it happens; interaction through massive multiplayer formats in a digital realm; total holographic experiences. It will be all encompassing and truly exciting. I just hope we keep what is important about our humanity as we explore.