Director Daniel Hodge

 



As Tamirfilms’s Independent Director, Daniel Hodge oversees a broad range of the company's activities – from script analysis to casting.

Mr. Hodges credits include directing documentaries, webisodes, commercials, PSA’s, and music videos with such celebrities as apl.de.ap from the Black Eyed Peas and many others.

Directing has always been Daniel’s ultimate creative desire but he continues to hone his directing skills by wearing a variety of hats in the production world including cinematographer, editor and producer.

What is the current project you are working on?

Directing a gritty, urban drama entitled Silencio.

How do you handle rejection?

I dust myself off and keep going, that or cry really softly into a pillow..

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

No. When I was young I wanted to be a professional football player, Then A lawyer, then a filmmaker. But I've always been a writer.

 What inspired you to become filmmaker?

I can't say that I was exactly inspired to be a filmmaker, for me, It was the next logical step as an unemployed writer.

 What is the best thing about being one?

You get to play with really expensive toys, and everyday is about your creativity, imagination and telling stories.

 What is the worst thing about being one?

Probably that everyday is about  your creativity and imagination.. some people have tendencies to loose themselves in their own imagination and the whole pseudo philosophical "Hollywood" lifestyle.

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

Wow, no clue. 100, 200? Maybe we should define "projects" first.

 Who is your favorite filmmaker?

Honestly that's a tough question, I like different filmmakers for different reasons. If I had to narrow it down, Jean Pierre Jeunet and Frederico Fellini, I also really like Joe Wright and Guy Ritche.

 How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker?

Although the film industry is a grind, I can't say I feel like I am in an endless rut as I did when I had the atypical 9-5. Wow, that didn't sound pretentious at all.

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

Don't listen to ANYONE. Always ask questions and be willing to learn and accept criticism and creative input but ultimately your career is in your own hands, no one will take credit when things go bad for you. It may sound sad to say but it's true.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

I am a HUGE sports fan, I also consider myself a decent poker player. If I hadn't come into film I would have pursued a professional career in poker. The two (film and poker) are very similar. In both you're just telling a story, in poker, each hand that you play you are trying to tell a story using your betting patterns. There are several different "styles" of play but you have to find what suits you best and what feels right, just like in filmmaking.

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

I have worked every job known to man with the exception of politics. I've worked everything from food service, to door to door vacuum salesman to fork-lift driver. I seriously have done it all which I think helps me in filmmaking. There is very little, if any, character research I  ever have to do.

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

Man, thats like choosing your favorite child.

(Amer.) Rainman, Goodfellas, Awakenings, Fight Club

(Foreign) Amelie, Otto e Mezzo, Micmacs, Atonement (all English cast and director still count as foreign right? haha) Breathless (A bout de souflee)

(T.V.) Band of Brothers was awesome, NBC's Kings was groundbreaking. To take the epic tale of the Bible's David and Goliath and bring it to a current time period without completely diluting the power of the messages and lessons of the tale was inspiring to see as a filmmaker.

 How would you describe your film education?

I study people. I study films.

What is the casting process like?

Exciting, like an Easter egg hunt as a child. Searching for and then finding all the unique and beautifully decorated eggs and putting them into your basket.

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

Hollywood is Hollywood. If you live here nothing more needs to be said, if you don't live here or have never been it would be pointless to describe because you would never believe/understand it. Hollywood is crazy.

 How has social media changed the independent film industry?

I couldn't say, I wasn't around before Skynet launched. Anyway, hasn't the internet always existed?

How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

If I can change the question a bit. (an indie film can also be mainstream, right? Snatch, Blair Witch, Sideways, Paranormal Activity) Maybe, indie film vs big budget studio film? In the Indie arena there are no rules baby! I think the indie film is the film we make as true artists, staying true to each and every molecule of the story. On a big budget film it's more about putting together a package, there is a model and that model has been proven and cannot be changed, very corporate, very methodical. Both serve a purpose, and you couldn't have one without the other.

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

Great question, just off the top of my head I would say Taxi Driver. All of the actors in that film were perfectly cast for the story. I would have loved to be on set and see how much or how little directing Scorsese had to do as far as positioning the actors, that would have been fun. One of the first lessons I was taught was as a director, great casting is 1/2 of good directing.

 What's your favorite movie quote and why?

Braveheart - Patrick McGoohan as King Edward the Longshanks .."Who is this person who speaks to me as though I needed his advice?" it's just a cool line.

Do you believe in life on other planets?

Sure, why not.

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

I've always been content with the abilities I've been given.

 What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

Remakes, If you can't do it better, don't touch it. As far as sequels go, if you aren't advancing the story in a meaningful way leave it be. *cough Dumb and Dumber.. yeah I went there.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptations?

There are some great ones, Pride and Prejudice, The Color Purple, Silence of the Lambs.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

uhh lets see, nope. I'm good!

Jay Millines Tamirfilms’ Chief Operating Officer

Jay Millines has served as Tamirfilms’ Chief Operating  Officer since October 2008. He was previously head of the Tamir's Animal Rescue League division of the company since July 2007, where he guided the strategic, operational, administrative and production-oriented concerns of the animal division, as well as overseeing development projects of Tamirfilms.

What is the current project you are working on? Silencio

How do you handle rejection? When I was a younger actor I took it all personal but now I understand more of the business side and know that more factors go into the decision making process other than my talent and look.

Did you always want to be a filmmaker? Ever since I was nine I wanted to  act and make movies.

 What inspired you to become filmmaker? More control!

 What is the best thing about being one? More control!

 What is the worst thing about being one? Being the one to hurt peoples feeling!

How does independent film differ from the mainstream? A little bit more creative control and less suits. The definitive word is less.

 You could go back in time and see any film being made. Which film would it be and why? Casablanca. I would like to see how they shot certain scenes and camera set-up.

 What's your favorite movie quote and why? "In as much as your invitation may appeal to me I must regretfully decline". (Interview with the Vampire). The line just leaves you free of not hurting ones feeling but leaving the door open for another opportunity.

Do you believe in life on other planets? Of course God is no respecter of persons or planets.

Do you ever wish you had a super power? If so, what would it be and why? I would to cast a spell of Peace and Harmony on the planet.

 What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels? All depends on the project. A lot of movies should have been left alone.

What is your opinion on book to movie adoptions? I'm ok with it.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I wanted to mention that I’m proud to be part of a company that believes in socially responsible filmmaking. Tamirfilms is making a difference one film at a time.

Filmmaker Amanda Pennington

Originally from Texas, Amanda Pennington has lived in New York City for the last 14 years. First trained, as a dancer with Patsy Swayze (Patrick Swayze's mother) at their small studio in Texas, she discovered her love of performance. She was later trained in Opera, studying with the legendary Elena Nikolaidi performing at such venues as The Miller Outdoor Theatre (Houston), the Wortham, (Houston) and at Westminster Abby (London) as an artist in residence.

In 2003, Amanda entered The William Esper Studios and worked on scholarship. It was at this point that she began working in film and theatre. She has both the talent and the artistic flexibility, to have the gift of artistic movement, between acting in both theatre and film. Her credits include; Everything Is Ordinary, the official selection at The Hamptons International Film Festival in 2009. All My Children 2008-10. She has been nominated for NY Innovative Awards, for her work in Theatre in New York City, and has worked closely with The Epic Theatre Ensemble, bringing Shakespeare into at risk schools. Being of service to the kids, is one of her great loves.

During the last year, Amanda has added producing to her repertoire, which includes her first project, where she was an Associate Producer on the award-winning film, The Sea Is All I Know by Jordan Bayne, starring Academy Award winner Melissa Leo. She also produced and acted in The L Train, a short with filmmaker Laura Terruso (Co-Dependent Lesbian Space Alien Seeks Same). Most recently she was involved in Saving Grace, a play by Vern Theissen starring Kathleen Chalfant and Daphne Rubin Vega. Amanda will be also making a very brief and funny appearance in Ira Sachs new film Keep the Lights On that shoots this month.

She is currently working on her first short, starring Tony Nominee, Kathleen Chalfant, Lillian that she has written and will co-direct. Lillian started shooting in late August.

What is the current project(s) you are working on?

Currently I am directing/producing and acting in Lillian, a film that I wrote inspired by Edna St Vincent Millay's poem What Lips My Lips Have Kissed. I also just worked on Face2Face a documentary by Katherine Brooks they just wrapped and are starting the editing process.

What does success mean to you?

To me, success is not measured by you in relation to others and their accomplishments. I measure my success based on my own level of happiness. If someone is able to do what they love, they are happy and they are able to have an hour or so a day to smell the flowers, I'd say that's a success.

How do you handle rejection?

My friend Judy Collins always says, "It's this or better". So I go with that, and it’s the truth! So many times I have wanted something that didn't work out, and something even more amazing than I could imagine can down the path. I always just try and stay in the moment with everything.

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

I actually wanted to always be a scientist but when that didn't work out, I decided on the entertainment industry. I am serious; when I was in fourth grade I was so into science that my mom bought me a microscope for my birthday. I do know though that I was always fascinated with films and stories and when I was a kid. I would sit and try and figure out how they filmed it or got the shot. I was always really intimated by actors, I was a dancer and trained in opera before I went to acting school. I have always loved design and creating the world to play in. So now, I have written this film, and am creating it with a team of people...and I am always thinking to myself, "I guess I am a filmmaker".... and I like that. It is fun, I'm having a blast...and I suppose filmmaking found me.

 What inspired you to become filmmaker?

I had a vision of this story and wrote it. Someone nudged me to direct this because I had a very clear vision of what I wanted. I love telling stories and I am a big kid, I still love to play make-believe so it fits.

 What is the best thing about being one?

The best thing about being a filmmaker so far is seeing how this project has helped inspire people. I love giving gifts and I feel like making this film is a gift I can give to everyone.

 What is the worst thing about being one?

I am not sure there is a bad thing. Fundraising is a challenge, but I really like a good challenge makes the reward better in the end!

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

I have been working since I was in acting school...and before that I worked in Texas in operas as well as a ton of shows when I was a kid. In the last two years I have worked on about 10 projects.

 Who is your favorite filmmaker?

Jane Campion, Sydney Pollack

How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker?

My room is a mess and I don't sleep that much. But I am really happy, really really happy.

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

Just get out there and do it. That is the best thing, follow your instincts, take risks. Try not to have the "them and me" mentality...if you want to act, go to school and study for a few years and have solid training. You fall back on your training because in the business there are long hours and long periods away from home and if you have solid training when you step in front of the camera, or get behind it, it is your best friend. If you want to make movies...just go for it! Don't wait for anyone to tell you to do it. Tell your stories, if you are passionate about it, and really want to do it more than anything, it will happen.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

I love to bake. I am a really good baker. Sometimes I bake at 2am to blow off steam. I am allergic to sugar and flour so I cannot eat anything I bake but people love my baking. Kathleen Chalfant says my rhubarb pie is "evil"!

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

Oh lord yes. I ran a bed and breakfast. I taught yoga. I have had many lives.

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

I love The Piano, Out of Africa, Notorious, Grease, Silence of the Lambs and Another Earth oh...also Nell. Nell was amazing!

 How would you describe your film education?

My film education has been really done on set, talking to filmmakers, watching what they do.... and watching a lot of films. To see how people capture certain things, and how they choose to do it.

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

The film scene in NYC is amazing and thriving and really supportive. I love it here.

 How has social media changed the independent film industry?

Social media is amazing; it is such a great tool for filmmakers to get the word out about their films.

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

Notorious. I would go back just to see the crane shot and the crane they had to use to get the close-up of the key in her hand.

 What's your favorite movie quote and why?

"A kiss is a lovely trick designed by nature to stop speech when words become superfluous." --Ingrid Bergman

I totally agree!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thank you so much for having me...I also wanted to give a little plug for SARA Sanctuary, a no kill animal rescue in Texas near Austin where I am from the website is www.sarasanctuary.org. They are in need of food; they have about 850 animals that they are taking care of. My friend, filmmaker Katherine Brooks is championing them and has created a chippin for them. Here is the link: http://sarasanctuary.chipin.com/sara-sanctuary

Also if you want to know more about the film here is the link to the page and if you would like to make a tax deductible donation click on the image and that will take you to the NYWIFT page.

http://www.magnoliarainpictures.com/new-projects.html

Also we are having a fundraiser at The Bowery Poetry Club on September 29th at 8pm. We will be reading Edna St. Vincent Millay's Poetry. Kathleen Chalfant, Fiona McBain of Ollabelle, Richard Vetere and others! The link below will take you to the page where you can purchase tickets. There will be a limited amount of student tickets at the door.

http://www.bowerypoetry.com/?#September_29

Thank you so much John for having me!

Writer Ryan Gavan

Ryan Gavan is our most recent member to join Tamirfilms. Mr. Gavan was born in New Jersey and moved around quite a bit as he was growing up. Having lived in New Jersey, Nevada, Washington, Boston and Florida has given Ryan and interesting peek into many different types of people and an insight into character development for future projects. While studying music at Berklee College of Music, Ryan also earned a degree in business at Eastern Washington University before moving to Los Angeles to focus on screen writing full time.




What is the current project you are working on?

 

I am working on a short film called “Silcencio” which is being produced by Tamir Yardenne from TamirFilms. It is a brutally honest story about child abuse and being bullied.

How do you handle rejection?

 

I worked in sales a long time before I got into film so I learned a long time ago not to take rejection personally and it is just a part of the gig.

 

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

 

No, initially I wanted to be a professional musician and maybe eventually score a film.

 What inspired you to become filmmaker?

 

I fell in love with movies after my first trip to the theater as a kid to see “Return of the Jedi,” but my fiancé is the one who really encouraged me to pursue screenwriting. I had told her once about an idea I had for a film and she really liked it and remembered it. About a year ago she signed me up for a screenwriting class and has been my champion ever since.

 What is the best thing about being one?

 

Having someone read what I wrote and respond to it and want to help me bring it to life is probably the coolest thing on Earth. Plus I get to meet lots of cool, interesting people who have the love for movies as  I do.

 What is the worst thing about being one?

 

So far, I don’t have any complaints. I have only been screenwriting for about a year. I have had a blast and look forward to many more productive years.

 

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

 

Well, I have “Silencio” and we are raising funds for now. I am working on a drama spec myself, which I am writing the second draft and a comedy spec with a partner, both of which should be done in the next few weeks. I have about 5 or 6 other ideas that I have began outlining so I will be busy for a while, but like I said it is so much fun, it doesn’t feel like work.

 

 Who is your favorite filmmaker?

 

There are so many filmmakers I admire. I love the way Aaron Sorkin makes his characters talk to one another. His words flow like music. I like Lawrence Kasdan’s characters because they always seem like people I already know. I love the visual style of Steven Spielberg and how he manages to make every one of his films personal on some level. I love how Michael Mann has a way of making the settings for his films almost like they characters. I could really go on and on but I won’t bore you

 How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker?

It has been more fun, that’s for sure!

 

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

 

Don’t be afraid of hard work and you need to be willing to listen and work well with others because no one makes a film alone. Film is a collaborative art and the more open to that you are the more work you can get done.

 

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

 

I love music. I have been a musician since I am 10 years old. I love to read. Good stories never get old. I love hanging out with good friends and laughing as much as possible.

 

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

 

I have worked in a variety of sales jobs. Everything from cell phones to hot tubs. If it had a price tag there is a good chance I sold it at one point or another. Like I said earlier though all of that experience has helped in filmmaking.

 

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

 

My favorite TV show right now would have to be “Sons of Anarchy.” Kurt Sutter is a great writer and created a really compelling world with that show. I was a little late to the game on that one but once I found it I caught up on three seasons worth of that show in about 6 days. I just couldn’t stop watching it! Some of my favorite films are “Goodfellas,” “Star Wars,” “The Godfather” series, “A Few Good Men.” This could be a long list…

 

 How would you describe your film education?

 

My film education is mostly self-taught. I have taken a few screenwriting classes to learn structure and form but mostly my education comes from watching hundreds of movies and talking about film with other people.

What is the casting process like?

 

Casting for me can be a bit awkward because you have to judge somebody. As a musician I remember that feeling of sitting in front a bunch of people and putting myself out there. That’s what is one of the great things about Tamir. He is an actor so he knows how that feels, too and that makes it easier for me to deal with that. It is also really exciting to hear my words come to life by a good actor and to see how they interpret my words.

 

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

 

Well, I live in Hollywood so it is inescapable but I am ok with that.

 

 How has social media changed the independent film industry?

 

I think it has done a great deal of good for independent film. It makes getting the word out about your film a whole lot easier. The point of making films to show them to other people and things like Facebook make that easier.

 

  

 

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

 

 

I think its great! It’s a cool way to get a film produced and it makes the donors feel like they are a part of the process, too. Some of the comments we have gotten from our donors are proof to us that our film will connect with the audience because we haven’t rolled camera yet and they are just as excited about the film as we are.

 

 How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

 

It seems that there is more freedom in how the film gets made. There are fewer cogs in the machine and less mouths to hear from. So far, like I said I am new to all of this, the level of passion is really high. Everyone involved with our film is there because they believe in the project and the story. Tamir really has a way of conveying his passion about this project that is infectious. He sold me on wanting to write it just by how passionate he was about the subject matter.

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

 

Probably the first Star Wars film because of all of the new ground that film broke both in terms of filmmaking and film marketing. Without that film, Hollywood would be a very different place today I think.

 What's your favorite movie quote and why?

 

I don’t have just one favorite quote. My brothers and I challenge ourselves to have complete conversations with quotes from movies. We are those guys.

 

Do you believe in life on other planets?

 

Sure, why not?

 

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

 

A super memory so I could have bigger databank of characteristics to use in my scripts.

 

 What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

 

Remakes kind of get under my skin because the way I see it if the original isn’t broke don’t fix it. You aren’t going to make it better than the original. Sequels are fine as long as they keep the integrity of the first film

 

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptations?

 

Who doesn’t want to see their favorite book realized in front of them? I hear avid readers complain about how things get left out of the movie version. There is a very important reason; books are very different from film. Converting a book to a screenplay is a daunting task. When it’s done well, both can be enjoyed.

 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

 

I would just like to thank you for taking the time to talk with me and for helping to get the word out about our film, “Silencio.”

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!