Greg Marcks has worked as writer/director for the past ten years, writing scripts for Lions Gate, Summit, DreamWorks, and Sony Pictures TV. He has directed two feature films, 11:14 and Echelon Conspiracy, working with stars such as Hilary Swank, Edward Burns, Jonathan Pryce, and Martin Sheen. His Florida State MFA thesis film Lector won a Student Academy Award.
What is the current project you are working on?
I am currently preparing to make You Don't Love Me Yet, an indie drama based on the novel of the same name by author Jonathan Lethem. I adapted the screenplay and will direct.
Did you always want to be a filmmaker?
As a teenager I started making short videos and writing and performing sketch comedy. When I went to college I aspired to write for television but my focus quickly shifted to filmmaking and feature screenwriting as I began making short 16mm films. By the time I was 18 I knew I wanted to be a filmmaker.
What is the best thing about being one?
The best thing about being a filmmaker, and especially about being a writer/director, is the ability to impose a personal vision on the telling of a story. Whether you are making a studio or an independent film, there will always be an imprint on the material that is unique to your individual personality and artistry of expression.
What is the worst thing about being one?
The worst thing about being a filmmaker is the lack of stability it can create in other areas of your life. In modern entertainment, filmmaking is largely a freelance endeavor, which means that in addition to being creative you must also excel at being an entrepreneur and managing the ups and downs of your career. It's a highly competitive field, and those who persevere do so because they really love the work regardless of how the final product is ultimately received.
How would you describe your film education?
My film education is constant and ongoing. With over 115 years of film history behind us, there is always a new movie to watch. I started educating myself as a teenager working in a video store, then as a college student in the university film library, and now as an adult going to revival houses and scouring Turner Classic Movies and Netflix. I watch at least a movie a day, and almost always something I haven't seen before. It's important to see a lot of films in order to have a strong sense of what filmmakers have done before so that you can place yourself and your work in both a historical and creative context.
You could have any super power. What would it be?
If I could have a super power it would be to refresh myself without sleep. That would free up another 33% of my time for making and watching movies!
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Editor/Director Kate Hackett
Kate Hackett is an independent filmmaker based in Los Angeles. She recently co-produced and designed a series of films for Portals, a multi-media concert featuring violinist Tim Fain. Portals is a Philip Glass premiere, with other collaborators including Leonard Cohen, Benjamin Millepied, and Nico Muhly.
A 2009 graduate of the UCLA Production/Directing program, Kate is the recipient of multiple awards for her short films as a writer/director, including the James Bridges Award, the Carole Fielding Award, the Deluxe Thesis Award, the FujiFilm Graduate Thesis Award, and the Hollywood Foreign Press Award for Excellence in Directing. Her first multi-media piece was a series of art films for the concert Ask Your Mama at the Hollywood Bowl, featuring the Roots and soprano Jessye Norman, which she co-directed with composer Laura Karpman. She also designed and directed films for The One-Ten Project, a new work commissioned by the Los Angeles Opera. Her work as a director and editor has been presented on CBS News, the Los Angeles Magazine website, the Carnegie Hall website, the PBS Newshour Website, and indieWIRE. She has edited two independent feature films, Homecoming, by director Sean Hackett, and Stealing Summers, by director David Martin-Porras. You can find out more about Kate at kate-hackett.com
What is the current project you are working on?
Right now, I’m touring with a series of films that I directed for PORTALS, a multi-media concert featuring violinist Tim Fain. It’s a Philip Glass premiere, with films inspired by the poetry of Leonard Cohen, and video choreography by Benjamin Millepied. It premiered at Symphony Space in NYC on September 24th, 2011.
I’m also enjoying following HOMECOMING, a feature film by director Sean Hackett and edited by me, make its wonderfully successful tour through the festival circuit. That’s part of the joy of being an editor—you get to sit back after you’re done and watch the film have a life of its own.
Did you always want to be an editor/director?
Almost everyone in my family is in the arts, from my great-grandmother, who was a California Plein-Air painter, to my sister, who is getting her PhD in Art History, to my mom and dad, who both work teaching and directing theater. So I guess I just grew up assuming that I would be involved in the arts in some way, and film was the art form that called to me most.
What inspired you to become an editor/director?
I think I may have control issues. I love the purity of taking all one’s messy surroundings, and condensing them into that one box that is the film frame.
What is the best thing about being one?
Getting obsessed with whatever your current project is.
What is the worst thing about being one?
Getting obsessed with whatever your current project is.
What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?
Too many to count. I went to film school and we all had to work on one another’s projects.
Who is your favorite filmmaker?
Lately I have been inspired by the lives and work of people like Anita Loos, Mae West, and Ida Lupino, all of whom brought strong female voices to the screen in classic Hollywood.
How has your life changed since you became an editor/director?
Ever since I’ve started to work professionally, I’ve become much more disciplined as an artist. I’ve learned to treat creating something as my job, instead of waiting until I become inspired.
What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants to make it in the movie business?
I am a strong believer that the best thing a young artist or filmmaker can do is to work on finding his or her individual voice. Better to fail on your terms than to succeed on someone else’s.
What do you like to do besides editing/directing?
Hmm. Pretty much the same as everyone. Friends, family, food…
Have you had any other jobs before you decided to become an editor//director?
Bartender, secretary, bookstore employee. All excellent jobs for people watching.
What are some of your favorite American films? Foreign films? Television shows?
Favorite Films: Lady from Shanghai, Rosemary’s Baby, Dead Man, Nights of Cabiria, and recently Dogtooth. Favorite Television Shows: The Prisoner, Twin Peaks, The Sopranos.
How would you describe your film education?
My college, the University of St. Andrews in Scotland, didn’t have an official film program at the time, but it did have a wonderful student run theater society called Mermaids. I started by doing plays there, and made short films informally with friends.
I used those short films as my reel, which got me into UCLA for grad school.
How would you describe the film "scene" where you live?
LA is a wonderful place to live if you love movies, because so does anyone else. On any given night you can see a premiere of a foreign film, a classic revival, or a new release in some of the most state-of-the-art venues in the country. Great directors give Q&A’s all the time, and you can meet 10 people working on screenplays just by going to Starbucks. It really is an industry town, which can be overwhelming at times, but also very inspiring.
How has social media changed the independent film industry?
Last night I attended a premiere of my multi-media directing work, and then was able to get an instant response from the audience via Twitter. It’s terrifying but also very exciting. The relationship between the filmmaker and the audience has become much more personal and immediate.
What's your opinion on crowdfunding?
I haven’t had the opportunity to give the crowdfunding thing a try yet, but I’m definitely open to it.
How often does timing affect artistic vision when editing a film?
I think timing and artistic vision are synonymous. The director and the editor have to make sure the pacing of the film fits the mood of the story and is true to the emotional life of the characters.
How does independent film differ from the mainstream?
I think the line between independent and mainstream film has become increasingly blurry in the past few years. It’s frequently the same people working in both worlds, and there are poor, mediocre, and excellent films made at all budget levels.
You could go back in time and see any film being made. Which film would it be and why?
Vertigo. I love the beautiful, hyper-real, seductive yet dangerous world that Hitchcock creates in this film, and it would be amazing to see the wires, as it were, that went into the construction.
What's your favorite movie quote and why?
“Everybody has a heart. Except some people.”—ALL ABOUT EVE That movie definitely deserves an award for the most and best one-liners.
You could have any super power. What would it be and why?
I would love to be able to read minds. But only for a week or so to see what it was like. It could get really awful after a while.
Do you believe in life on other planets?
The truth is out there. No, seriously—didn’t they just find a planet that is potentially viable to support life?
What is your opinion on movie remakes?
Have at 'em. I don’t think a bad remake can ever take away the power of a great original. And in a few rare circumstances the update is actually better!
What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?
The best book to movie adaptations are the ones where the film writer and director are willing to create something that is in the spirit of the book, but manages to present a new take on the material.
How has computer technology affected the way films are presently edited?
With analog editing you had to plan and conceptualize the way that you would cut a scene before you actually physically cut it, because making changes was so much more labor intensive. Now it’s so easy to try something out, and throw it out if it doesn’t work, while still saving the old version. It’s two very different mental processes, like writing versus improvising music, but lots have things have stayed the same in terms of what feels good structurally to an audience.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Thank you John for such an interesting and extensive interview!
Monday, October 3, 2011
Filmmaker Carlton Grooms
Carlton Grooms is a short filmmaker and the editor of the island focused travel blog, Coastlines & Tan Lines™[http://www.coastlines-tanlines.com]. He produced his latest book, "Portraits of Our World" after a one year trip around the world. He is the founder of Conch Republic Bikinis, as well as a former Naval Aviator. Carl led the business development of all Hong Kong Disney hotels and restaurants for Walt Disney Attractions. At last count Carl has visited 53 countries. He has run with the Bulls in Pamplona, braved the highest bungee jump in the world in South Africa and is an ultra-marathon runner. He holds an MBA from the Wharton School at The University of Pennsylvania.
What is the current project you are working on?
There are always a series of ongoing projects occurring, each in different stages. As a short filmmaker, I release new work 2-3 times per week. To keep that pace I have to be thinking a month or more in advance. The vast majority of my projects occur in the Caribbean which requires an additional layer of complexity.
My largest current project is trying to secure a consulting position with Tommy Bahama Group as their first ever Rumologist. This might not sound like a filmmaking position but it will have a major and positive impact for me. First, it will assure additional funds with which to continue my efforts. Second, it will allow me to travel to more destinations in order to make more short films. Lastly, as an island expert, the position further builds my credentials giving my films a broader audience.
I am most excited about a project I've just started, it represents my most ambitious work yet. I have been invited to produce a 30 minutes documentary on the 1902 all wooden Schooner, The Coral. She was built in England and has a long storied history. She has recently returned to the Caribbean for refit from South Africa. I am following her progress over the coming months to climax at the Antigua Classic Yacht races in April where I will finish the film as she is racing as she was built to do.
How do you handle rejection?
Rejection never really bothers me. As an independent I continually press forward and stay surrounded by positive people. I believe in my path and genuinely enjoy what I do, which allows me to not question my choices regardless of what other people think.
Did you always want to be a filmmaker?
No, it found me. I am a former Naval Aviator, which is what I always wanted to do. I flew off of aircraft carriers and had the time of my life. Unfortunately it couldn't last forever. Only in the past few years have I found film. I took a trip around the world for a year with my wife and kids and produced a still photography book called, "Portraits of Our World". We are using the profits to build schools in Africa. When this project was completed I was wanting more than just shooting stills, that's when motion became the obvious next choice.
What inspired you to become filmmaker?
It is with great fortune that I get to travel and live the life of adventure that I do. Filmmaking is the most immediate and obvious way for me to share this back with the world.
What is the best thing about being one?
I get to tell stories and share the adventures of my daily life. The creative outlet and personal reward see even my most simple work being watched motivates me to jump out of bed and get to work on the next project.
What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?
In the past past three months alone I have released over 20 shorts.
What do you like to do besides filmmaking?
Writing is a core touch stone for me. Often on my travels I split my coverage between short films and writing. I shoot a lot of still images to accompany my writing. As a story teller I think you need to be a good writer if you hope to produce an entertaining film.
Have you had any other jobs before you decided to become a filmmaker?
Countless! I am a former Naval Officer, I helped build Hong Kong Disney as a former executive there. I was CFO of a major internet broadcasting company, President of a Swiss defense finance company and CEO of a creative firm. The need to focus has never seemed to occur to me. That said, I am very happy with where I am now at and imagine I'm doing what I am meant to do.
How would you describe your film education?
Self taught. I have made and continue to make all the ridiculous mistakes that this entails. I shoot a lot, make mistakes a lot and release a lot all with obvious flaws in order to improve.
How would you describe the film "scene" where you live?
Sarasota, Florida has a building and increasingly respected film festival each year. We draw both major named actors and directors all the way to screenings of shorter independent work. I would say for a small town we are very lucky.
How has social media changed the independent film industry?
I don't think you can be successful in this industry without learning/knowing/practicing social media daily. You must have a strategy and work the strategy. I use Twitter multiple times a day to drive followers to Facebook. I use FB and G+ to drive followers to my blogs or to where my films are being hosted and shown and use the films to show my next (and hopefully larger) projects what I can do.
You could go back in time and see and film being made. Which film would it be and why?
Star Wars. The level of technology, creativity and vision it took to create at that time with such limited tools speaks volumes to the genius not only of George Lucas but to the team that surrounded him.
Do you believe in life on other planets?
Yes.
What's your favorite movie quote and why?
"I love the smell of Napalm in the morning" - Apocalypse Now.
I used to fly jets for living. As a former Bombardier I loved smelling the mix of jet fuel in the air and the gym locker room stench of the cockpit mixing in my nostrils. Good times.
What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?
As a former Disney guy I have to agree with Walt on this one. Movies are meant as creative works of art. Walt frowned on sequels because he wanted to bring his best and new creative effort each and every time. Remakes are more in a gray area for me. After all, most stories or story lines have been explored at some point in history, maybe the setting is new, the subjects different, but the thread is there. Given the correct team remakes can be a wholly new creative effort in my opinion.
Anything else you wish to add?
I am very excited about working exclusively with Video DSLR now. After many discussions with Canon I settled on the Canon 7d. I use the Canon 1Ds Mk III for stills but it doesn't shoot video. As I own most every pro lens for the later camera I now have the ability to be super creative with my available glass on my motion shoots.
Recently I sold and re-invested completely in this setup and could not be happier. As I travel the Caribbean and often shoot with no, or a very small crew, this setup is lightweight and high power. Often I edit in the field with Apple's newest Mac Book Air, which I find runs Final Cut X (yes I use it and like it) just fine. Sometimes I release simple work directly from the field as well. This whole new setup has made my life easier, my work noticeably better and brought the many more positive reviews.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Writer Charles Skaggs
Born in Youngstown, Ohio, Charles Skaggs began reading comic books at the age of five and has never stopped since. After growing up in Medina, Ohio, he graduated from the University of Central Florida in Orlando and joined the amateur press association TITANTALK, which was devoted to characters from DC Comics’ various Teen Titans series. Charles’ involvement with the APA introduced him to his future wife Lori and several lifelong friends, including future editor Michael McCalister.
In 1999, his first professional short story, “Doctors Three,” was published by Pocket Books as part of the STAR TREK: STRANGE NEW WORLDS II anthology, edited by Dean Wesley Smith. This story was selected as one of “The Top Ten Dr. McCoy Stories You May Have Missed” by Star Trek Communicator magazine and was featured in Voyages of Imagination: The Star Trek Fiction Companion by Jeff Ayers.
Charles’ recent work includes writing several GENERATOR REX stories for CARTOON NETWORK ACTION PACK from DC Comics and writing for the Daily Planet newspaper included with the SMALLVILLE complete series DVD collection set from Warner Home Video. When not obsessing over the television series Doctor Who, he also writes the blog DAMN GOOD COFFEE...AND HOT!, which can be found online at http://charlesskaggs.blogspot.com.
What is the current project you are working on?
Something I’m pitching to DC Comics that I can’t go into specific details about yet, unfortunately. All I can say is, it’s a complete reimagining of one of my all-time favorite characters and I’m really hoping it gets approved.
What inspired you to become a writer?
I just seemed to have an aptitude for it. I took a number of English and creative writing courses in high school and college, but didn’t view it as a true passion until I joined TitanTalk, an amateur press association of fans devoted to DC Comics’ various Teen Titans characters. In TitanTalk, I was surrounded by a number of very creative and enthusiastic fans that encouraged me to write all types of stories.
What is the best thing about being a writer?
The best thing for me is being able to make my own contribution to a property that’s been established or creating something from the ground up. I love coming up with characters and trying to figure out what makes them tick and what they need to do to move the story along.
What is the worst thing about being one?
The worst thing is probably time. If you’re serious about writing, you obviously need to devote time in your day to actually do that writing. If it’s not time that could be spent with your family and friends, then it’s time you could be spending on yourself. This gets even trickier when specific deadlines are involved, but a true professional finds a way to make the deadlines a priority and still keep up with daily life.
What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?
I’ve done countless amateur projects over the years but in terms of being professionally published, I’ve written one short story, four newspaper articles and four comic books with hopefully more to come. I know there should be more, so if anyone has any openings for paying writing gigs…
What advice would you give to someone who wants to become a writer?
Two very simple things – READ and WRITE as much as you can. Read novels, short stories, movie and TV scripts, comic books, whatever you can get your hands on with a plot and study them like crazy. Take note of how the story is structured and how each character’s dialogue flows.
Also, if you’re not working on a specific project, I recommend writing some form of journal on a regular basis. One of the reasons I started my blog DAMN Good Coffee…and HOT! about a year ago was to keep myself in the constant flow of writing. The more you write, the more you’ll evolve as a writer. Oh, and dialogue can be a bit rough even for established writers, so try reading your character’s dialogue out loud and if it doesn’t sound natural to you or someone else listening, then it probably isn’t.
What do you like to do besides writing?
As you might have guessed, I’m very big on comic books and currently read around forty titles from various publishers per month. I’m also a big fan of film and television and as anyone who knows me can verify, I have a very unhealthy obsession with the TV series Doctor Who. I read novels ranging from science fiction to espionage to fantasy and I’m a pretty avid (and perhaps also masochistic) follower of the Cleveland Indians, the Cleveland Browns, the Ohio State Buckeyes, the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Columbus Blue Jackets. Thankfully, I can share some of these with my wife, which makes life a lot easier.
Who is your favorite author?
I’d have to say Douglas Adams, writer of the Hitchhiker’s and Dirk Gently books, who was my first big inspiration as a writer with his brilliant sense of humor and imagination. My other favorites would have to include Neil Gaiman, Grant Morrison, Warren Ellis, Peter David, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Sir Ian Fleming, Joss Whedon and Steven Moffat.
What are some of your favorite books?
With Douglas Adams as my favorite author, it should be no surprise that The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy is my all-time favorite book. I’ve read it at least four times now and still find it as entertaining as ever. Some of my other favorites are Peter David’s Imzadi, Neil Gaiman’s Stardust, H.G. Wells’ The Time Machine, Ian Fleming’s James Bond novels, and Jim Butcher’s first Dresden Files novel Storm Front.
Who is your favorite filmmaker?
Hmmm…Good question. If we’re talking an overall body of work, I think right now it’s probably Quentin Tarantino. Like many people, I was first introduced to his work with Pulp Fiction, but Reservoir Dogs, Kill Bill Vols. 1 & 2, and Inglorious Basterds are just incredibly distinctive, entertaining movies. I’d also rank Christopher Nolan right up there, along with David Lynch, Tim Burton, Steven Spielberg, Sergio Leone, and David Fincher.
How would you describe your education?
Pretty standard. I grew up in the small town of Medina, Ohio, where I received a solid education during a time when you didn’t have to worry about guns or gangs. Then I did two years of college, majoring in business, until my family and I moved down to Florida where I received my Bachelor’s. I could’ve gone for an English degree instead, but I knew that if I didn’t want to scrape by making minimum wage month after month, I needed a degree far more appealing to the real world.
What are some of your favorite American films? Foreign films? Television shows?
Apart from the films I listed above, my all-time favorite movies are Star Wars, The Empire Strikes Back, Superman (1978), Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, the original Indiana Jones trilogy, Die Hard, the Back to the Future trilogy, and more. As for foreign films, I’d say Sergio Leone’s The Man With No Name trilogy starring Clint Eastwood, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and The Seven Samurai.
TV shows…Well, there’s Doctor Who, Doctor Who and oh, yeah…Doctor Who. Okay, maybe you could throw Twin Peaks, The Prisoner, Babylon 5, the BBC version of Life On Mars, Northern Exposure, the first five seasons of Lost, the first two seasons of the Battlestar Galactica remake, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Firefly, the first five seasons of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, the BBC version of Being Human, the first five seasons of The X-Files, and the first five seasons of Mystery Science Theater 3000 in there as well.
Why is Doctor Who so cool?
Apart from bow ties, fezzes and Stetsons you mean? In my opinion, Doctor Who is cool because it’s structured in such a way that you can go anywhere you want, any time you want, and tell any kind of story imaginable. And apart from some of Steven Moffat’s recent episodes, anyone unfamiliar with the series could potentially jump on during any given story, start watching and not feel completely lost. But I think Craig Ferguson, host of CBS’ The Late, Late Show, summed the series up best when he described it as “intellect and romance triumphing over brute force and cynicism.” Even with all the death and destruction that goes on in certain stories, it’s still pure optimism and adventure wrapped up in a dimensionally-transcendental blue box that can travel anywhere you’d like. If that’s not cool, I don’t know what is.
What are your thoughts on the big reveals in episodes seven and eight of season 6 of Doctor Who?
I absolutely loved “A Good Man Goes to War,” but felt “Let’s Kill Hitler” was a bit rushed and needed more time to breathe even though it was still enjoyable. With everything we know at this point about Madame Kovarian and River Song/Melody Pond, and a lot was dumped on us in “Let’s Kill Hitler,” I’m wondering if Melody’s genetic material is the key to the overall Big Bad story masterplan that Steven Moffat appears to be crafting since he took over as showrunner. We still don’t know who that sinister voice was that took over the TARDIS in “The Pandorica Opens” and said “Silence will fall” and I find it very intriguing that the Anglican Marines appear to use an Omega for their identifying symbol. So as an old-school Whovian, I have a theory that Madame Kovarian wants to bring back Omega from the antimatter universe (which, presumably, he still resides in after “Arc of Infinity”) and has used Melody’s timey-wimey Time Lord DNA as the genetic basis for Omega’s resurrection. It’s just a theory, mind you, so we’ll see how right I actually am.
Let's say you could write an episode of Doctor Who. What would the plot be?
Hmmm, I’d love to say but I’m keeping that secret for now in case I somehow manage to write for IDW’s Doctor Who ongoing series or a Big Finish audio adventure someday. Just know that it’ll be very timey-wimey with a good amount of nods to the series’ history.
Who is your favorite Doctor and companion?
Although my earliest exposure to Doctor Who was a few Tom Baker stories, I’m a diehard Peter Davison fan. All of them are just brilliant in their own ways, but I rank David Tennant, Matt Smith, Tom Baker, Patrick Troughton and Paul McGann among my favorites.
As for companions, you almost have to say that Sarah Jane was the definitive companion. Although somewhat limited during her time with the Doctor by the writing, Sarah Jane was allowed to evolve and find an entirely new generation of fans. Other personal favorites include Jamie, Ace, Leela, Peri, Martha, Captain Jack, Charley Pollard and Lucie Miller from the Big Finish audios, and of course, The Brigadier.
How would you describe the writing "scene" where you live?
I don’t really think there is one, or if there is, I’m not part of it. There are a good amount of writers here in Columbus, but apart from seeing one another at conventions or the occasional party, I think it’s mostly social network interaction via Facebook and Twitter. Everyone seems very friendly toward one another, which is great unless they’re secretly talking about me behind my back…
How has social media changed the publishing?
I’d have to say it’s opened up the ability to access writers, artists and editors like never before. Living in central Ohio, I would usually get the chance to talk with comics creators only at conventions unless I happened to know one or two personally. But with Facebook and Twitter, there are so many more opportunities for interaction. You get to know professionals better, for good or bad, and as long as you don’t come off like a complete jerk, they can get to know you better as well. It also gives creators and companies direct contact with their core audience, which only helps spread awareness.
What is your thought process like when you're writing?
It sometimes depends on the type of story I’m writing, but I tend to think very cinematically. I picture scenes in my head as if I was watching them up on the screen, which helps when you’re writing comics and need to describe to an artist how characters are positioned. I generally have music that relates to the story’s tone playing while I write, almost like a soundtrack playing during my “movie” that helps keep me focused on the setting.
You could have any super power. What would it be?
Super-speed. The ability to move, think and react at accelerated speed is one of the most underrated in comics and with the amount of the things I typically do in a given day, is practically a must.
If you could have any first edition comic book, which would it be and why?
Action Comics #1, the first appearance of Superman. This comic defined everything else that came after it and as someone who was also adopted by a kind and loving couple and raised to always do the right thing, Superman became such an identifiable part of my life.
What's your favorite quote and why?
I’m partial to the Ferris Bueller’s Day Off quote “Life moves pretty fast…If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” Yeah, it’s a bit trite, but so many people are wrapped up in their daily existence that they often don’t appreciate the things going on around them. I used to be one of those people, focused solely on my hobbies and interests that I never bothered with the outside world. It took a life-changing event to get me to refocus my priorities and start making the most of the precious little time we all have.
What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?
I’d prefer to see something original instead of going back and remaking everything, but sometimes it’s justified. Take the Coen brothers recent remake of True Grit for example, which resulted in a superior film to the 1969 version starring John Wayne. Sequels, meanwhile, make sense as long as the quality is comparable to the original and especially on the rare occasion when the sequel actually surpasses the original. The Empire Strikes Back is better than Star Wars, The Dark Knight is better than Batman Begins, and Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan is light-years better than Star Trek: The Motion Picture.
What is your opinion on book to movie adaptations?
Yes, there have been a number of films where the film version doesn’t come close to the novels on which they were based, but there are times when the film versions improve upon the books. Anyone who’s sat down and read J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings trilogy and then watched the Peter Jackson films should know that Jackson did a masterful job reworking Tolkien’s saga and making it flow. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix is another good example, where director David Yates took what I feel was one of the worst Harry Potter books, stripped out J.K. Rowling’s indulgent excess, and crafted it into one of the best Harry Potter films. This is just my opinion, but each of Rowling’s last four books could easily lose 100 to 150 pages and become much better novels.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
To anyone who gets frustrated trying to break in as a writer or something creative, don’t give up on your dreams. Yes, everyday life may take over and unexpected things may happen that sidetrack you, but as long as you have talent and the right bit of luck at the right time, things will work out eventually. I was exactly where you are for more years than I care to remember, so if it can happen for me, I firmly believe it can happen for anyone.
In 1999, his first professional short story, “Doctors Three,” was published by Pocket Books as part of the STAR TREK: STRANGE NEW WORLDS II anthology, edited by Dean Wesley Smith. This story was selected as one of “The Top Ten Dr. McCoy Stories You May Have Missed” by Star Trek Communicator magazine and was featured in Voyages of Imagination: The Star Trek Fiction Companion by Jeff Ayers.
Charles’ recent work includes writing several GENERATOR REX stories for CARTOON NETWORK ACTION PACK from DC Comics and writing for the Daily Planet newspaper included with the SMALLVILLE complete series DVD collection set from Warner Home Video. When not obsessing over the television series Doctor Who, he also writes the blog DAMN GOOD COFFEE...AND HOT!, which can be found online at http://charlesskaggs.blogspot.com.
What is the current project you are working on?
Something I’m pitching to DC Comics that I can’t go into specific details about yet, unfortunately. All I can say is, it’s a complete reimagining of one of my all-time favorite characters and I’m really hoping it gets approved.
What inspired you to become a writer?
I just seemed to have an aptitude for it. I took a number of English and creative writing courses in high school and college, but didn’t view it as a true passion until I joined TitanTalk, an amateur press association of fans devoted to DC Comics’ various Teen Titans characters. In TitanTalk, I was surrounded by a number of very creative and enthusiastic fans that encouraged me to write all types of stories.
What is the best thing about being a writer?
The best thing for me is being able to make my own contribution to a property that’s been established or creating something from the ground up. I love coming up with characters and trying to figure out what makes them tick and what they need to do to move the story along.
What is the worst thing about being one?
The worst thing is probably time. If you’re serious about writing, you obviously need to devote time in your day to actually do that writing. If it’s not time that could be spent with your family and friends, then it’s time you could be spending on yourself. This gets even trickier when specific deadlines are involved, but a true professional finds a way to make the deadlines a priority and still keep up with daily life.
What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?
I’ve done countless amateur projects over the years but in terms of being professionally published, I’ve written one short story, four newspaper articles and four comic books with hopefully more to come. I know there should be more, so if anyone has any openings for paying writing gigs…
What advice would you give to someone who wants to become a writer?
Two very simple things – READ and WRITE as much as you can. Read novels, short stories, movie and TV scripts, comic books, whatever you can get your hands on with a plot and study them like crazy. Take note of how the story is structured and how each character’s dialogue flows.
Also, if you’re not working on a specific project, I recommend writing some form of journal on a regular basis. One of the reasons I started my blog DAMN Good Coffee…and HOT! about a year ago was to keep myself in the constant flow of writing. The more you write, the more you’ll evolve as a writer. Oh, and dialogue can be a bit rough even for established writers, so try reading your character’s dialogue out loud and if it doesn’t sound natural to you or someone else listening, then it probably isn’t.
What do you like to do besides writing?
As you might have guessed, I’m very big on comic books and currently read around forty titles from various publishers per month. I’m also a big fan of film and television and as anyone who knows me can verify, I have a very unhealthy obsession with the TV series Doctor Who. I read novels ranging from science fiction to espionage to fantasy and I’m a pretty avid (and perhaps also masochistic) follower of the Cleveland Indians, the Cleveland Browns, the Ohio State Buckeyes, the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Columbus Blue Jackets. Thankfully, I can share some of these with my wife, which makes life a lot easier.
Who is your favorite author?
I’d have to say Douglas Adams, writer of the Hitchhiker’s and Dirk Gently books, who was my first big inspiration as a writer with his brilliant sense of humor and imagination. My other favorites would have to include Neil Gaiman, Grant Morrison, Warren Ellis, Peter David, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Sir Ian Fleming, Joss Whedon and Steven Moffat.
What are some of your favorite books?
With Douglas Adams as my favorite author, it should be no surprise that The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy is my all-time favorite book. I’ve read it at least four times now and still find it as entertaining as ever. Some of my other favorites are Peter David’s Imzadi, Neil Gaiman’s Stardust, H.G. Wells’ The Time Machine, Ian Fleming’s James Bond novels, and Jim Butcher’s first Dresden Files novel Storm Front.
Who is your favorite filmmaker?
Hmmm…Good question. If we’re talking an overall body of work, I think right now it’s probably Quentin Tarantino. Like many people, I was first introduced to his work with Pulp Fiction, but Reservoir Dogs, Kill Bill Vols. 1 & 2, and Inglorious Basterds are just incredibly distinctive, entertaining movies. I’d also rank Christopher Nolan right up there, along with David Lynch, Tim Burton, Steven Spielberg, Sergio Leone, and David Fincher.
How would you describe your education?
Pretty standard. I grew up in the small town of Medina, Ohio, where I received a solid education during a time when you didn’t have to worry about guns or gangs. Then I did two years of college, majoring in business, until my family and I moved down to Florida where I received my Bachelor’s. I could’ve gone for an English degree instead, but I knew that if I didn’t want to scrape by making minimum wage month after month, I needed a degree far more appealing to the real world.
What are some of your favorite American films? Foreign films? Television shows?
Apart from the films I listed above, my all-time favorite movies are Star Wars, The Empire Strikes Back, Superman (1978), Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, the original Indiana Jones trilogy, Die Hard, the Back to the Future trilogy, and more. As for foreign films, I’d say Sergio Leone’s The Man With No Name trilogy starring Clint Eastwood, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and The Seven Samurai.
TV shows…Well, there’s Doctor Who, Doctor Who and oh, yeah…Doctor Who. Okay, maybe you could throw Twin Peaks, The Prisoner, Babylon 5, the BBC version of Life On Mars, Northern Exposure, the first five seasons of Lost, the first two seasons of the Battlestar Galactica remake, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Firefly, the first five seasons of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, the BBC version of Being Human, the first five seasons of The X-Files, and the first five seasons of Mystery Science Theater 3000 in there as well.
Why is Doctor Who so cool?
Apart from bow ties, fezzes and Stetsons you mean? In my opinion, Doctor Who is cool because it’s structured in such a way that you can go anywhere you want, any time you want, and tell any kind of story imaginable. And apart from some of Steven Moffat’s recent episodes, anyone unfamiliar with the series could potentially jump on during any given story, start watching and not feel completely lost. But I think Craig Ferguson, host of CBS’ The Late, Late Show, summed the series up best when he described it as “intellect and romance triumphing over brute force and cynicism.” Even with all the death and destruction that goes on in certain stories, it’s still pure optimism and adventure wrapped up in a dimensionally-transcendental blue box that can travel anywhere you’d like. If that’s not cool, I don’t know what is.
What are your thoughts on the big reveals in episodes seven and eight of season 6 of Doctor Who?
I absolutely loved “A Good Man Goes to War,” but felt “Let’s Kill Hitler” was a bit rushed and needed more time to breathe even though it was still enjoyable. With everything we know at this point about Madame Kovarian and River Song/Melody Pond, and a lot was dumped on us in “Let’s Kill Hitler,” I’m wondering if Melody’s genetic material is the key to the overall Big Bad story masterplan that Steven Moffat appears to be crafting since he took over as showrunner. We still don’t know who that sinister voice was that took over the TARDIS in “The Pandorica Opens” and said “Silence will fall” and I find it very intriguing that the Anglican Marines appear to use an Omega for their identifying symbol. So as an old-school Whovian, I have a theory that Madame Kovarian wants to bring back Omega from the antimatter universe (which, presumably, he still resides in after “Arc of Infinity”) and has used Melody’s timey-wimey Time Lord DNA as the genetic basis for Omega’s resurrection. It’s just a theory, mind you, so we’ll see how right I actually am.
Let's say you could write an episode of Doctor Who. What would the plot be?
Hmmm, I’d love to say but I’m keeping that secret for now in case I somehow manage to write for IDW’s Doctor Who ongoing series or a Big Finish audio adventure someday. Just know that it’ll be very timey-wimey with a good amount of nods to the series’ history.
Who is your favorite Doctor and companion?
Although my earliest exposure to Doctor Who was a few Tom Baker stories, I’m a diehard Peter Davison fan. All of them are just brilliant in their own ways, but I rank David Tennant, Matt Smith, Tom Baker, Patrick Troughton and Paul McGann among my favorites.
As for companions, you almost have to say that Sarah Jane was the definitive companion. Although somewhat limited during her time with the Doctor by the writing, Sarah Jane was allowed to evolve and find an entirely new generation of fans. Other personal favorites include Jamie, Ace, Leela, Peri, Martha, Captain Jack, Charley Pollard and Lucie Miller from the Big Finish audios, and of course, The Brigadier.
How would you describe the writing "scene" where you live?
I don’t really think there is one, or if there is, I’m not part of it. There are a good amount of writers here in Columbus, but apart from seeing one another at conventions or the occasional party, I think it’s mostly social network interaction via Facebook and Twitter. Everyone seems very friendly toward one another, which is great unless they’re secretly talking about me behind my back…
How has social media changed the publishing?
I’d have to say it’s opened up the ability to access writers, artists and editors like never before. Living in central Ohio, I would usually get the chance to talk with comics creators only at conventions unless I happened to know one or two personally. But with Facebook and Twitter, there are so many more opportunities for interaction. You get to know professionals better, for good or bad, and as long as you don’t come off like a complete jerk, they can get to know you better as well. It also gives creators and companies direct contact with their core audience, which only helps spread awareness.
What is your thought process like when you're writing?
It sometimes depends on the type of story I’m writing, but I tend to think very cinematically. I picture scenes in my head as if I was watching them up on the screen, which helps when you’re writing comics and need to describe to an artist how characters are positioned. I generally have music that relates to the story’s tone playing while I write, almost like a soundtrack playing during my “movie” that helps keep me focused on the setting.
You could have any super power. What would it be?
Super-speed. The ability to move, think and react at accelerated speed is one of the most underrated in comics and with the amount of the things I typically do in a given day, is practically a must.
If you could have any first edition comic book, which would it be and why?
Action Comics #1, the first appearance of Superman. This comic defined everything else that came after it and as someone who was also adopted by a kind and loving couple and raised to always do the right thing, Superman became such an identifiable part of my life.
What's your favorite quote and why?
I’m partial to the Ferris Bueller’s Day Off quote “Life moves pretty fast…If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” Yeah, it’s a bit trite, but so many people are wrapped up in their daily existence that they often don’t appreciate the things going on around them. I used to be one of those people, focused solely on my hobbies and interests that I never bothered with the outside world. It took a life-changing event to get me to refocus my priorities and start making the most of the precious little time we all have.
What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?
I’d prefer to see something original instead of going back and remaking everything, but sometimes it’s justified. Take the Coen brothers recent remake of True Grit for example, which resulted in a superior film to the 1969 version starring John Wayne. Sequels, meanwhile, make sense as long as the quality is comparable to the original and especially on the rare occasion when the sequel actually surpasses the original. The Empire Strikes Back is better than Star Wars, The Dark Knight is better than Batman Begins, and Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan is light-years better than Star Trek: The Motion Picture.
What is your opinion on book to movie adaptations?
Yes, there have been a number of films where the film version doesn’t come close to the novels on which they were based, but there are times when the film versions improve upon the books. Anyone who’s sat down and read J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings trilogy and then watched the Peter Jackson films should know that Jackson did a masterful job reworking Tolkien’s saga and making it flow. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix is another good example, where director David Yates took what I feel was one of the worst Harry Potter books, stripped out J.K. Rowling’s indulgent excess, and crafted it into one of the best Harry Potter films. This is just my opinion, but each of Rowling’s last four books could easily lose 100 to 150 pages and become much better novels.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
To anyone who gets frustrated trying to break in as a writer or something creative, don’t give up on your dreams. Yes, everyday life may take over and unexpected things may happen that sidetrack you, but as long as you have talent and the right bit of luck at the right time, things will work out eventually. I was exactly where you are for more years than I care to remember, so if it can happen for me, I firmly believe it can happen for anyone.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Filmmaker D.W. Kann
Darkside Films is an independent film production company founded by D.W. Kann in 2001. We are dedicated to providing top quality content without the studio overhead and pride ourselves on being ‘fiscally responsible film makers’. We create cutting edge material that pushes limits and appeals to specific audiences that Hollywood tends to neglect. We are passionate about independent film and are continuously supporting fellow indie projects to ensure they are able to reach their goals and find success. Currently we are in development on several of our own projects.
D.W. Kann is the founder of Darkside Films LLC. Mr. Kann is a passionate filmmaker who has been working in the film industry for over 20 years. He has held various positions within the industry, starting as a prop master, make-up artist, art director and production designer, before moving into editing, producing and directing. He appears at numerous festivals and conventions every year to promote his work and has a growing community among horror fans.
Mr. Kann has successfully directed, produced and sold two feature films: Ancient Evil 2 (2005) and Prison of the Psychotic Damned (2006). The films were sold to Silver Nitrate Entertainment and York Home Entertainment less than nine months after principal photography.
Over the past several years Mr. Kann has worked in a varied capacity supporting independent film. In 2007, he joined forces with English companies Ironopolis Media/Night Creature Films to produce and edit two feature films that played theatrically in the UK for several weeks and were shown at the 2008 Cannes Film Festival. In 2009, Mr. Kann was on the Board of Directors for the First Annual Bram Stoker International Film Festival and continues to be involved at some degree annually. In 2011 he was courted to be a judge for the Shriekfest International Film Festival located in Los Angeles, CA. Los Angeles, CA. Mr. Kann just finished working with Matt Taylor on his "JAWS: Memories from Martha's Vineyard" coffee table book. Currently he is raising money for his film SEVER and prepping for a gallery showing of his photography work. More details to come."
For more information and a full history of D.W. Kann’s body of work in the film industry, please go to IMDB http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0437770/
You can also learn more about Mr. Kann and Darkside Films at the following links:
Twitter: @darkside_films
Facebook: Darkside-Films
What is the current project you are working on?
- I’m always working on a few things at a time. Currently we’re raising finances for our feature SEVER, a psychological thriller. It's described with touches of Silence of the Lambs meets Clean Shaven with a nice slice of Twin Peaks
How do you handle rejection?
- I have a tough skin, you have too.
Did you always want to be a filmmaker?
- Never thought of anything else
What inspired you to become filmmaker?
- You know, I’ve always tried to think what sparked that moment. As I’ve gotten older, I think it’s a combination of still being a kid inside and wanting the adventures you could never experience in real life.
What is the best thing about being one?
- The happiest day for me honestly is when a project is funded and we can start. It may be a long road after that day. But before you get there, it's a million times longer.
What is the worst thing about being one?
- The the road that's a million times longer.
What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?
- Quite a lot. I run the gambit from commercials to studio pictures and in-between.
Who is your favorite filmmaker?
- Growing up I would always change my favorite until I got older and stuck to a core four that I admire and respect: Werner Herzog, David Lynch, Orson Wells, Stanley Kubrick, Roman Polanski, Alfred Hitchcock, Michael Heneke and Larry Clark. To name a few."
How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker?
- As you get older life some times gets more diverse. So dedication goes into over drive to keep the fire going.
What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants to make it in the movie business?
- Dedication, true dedication if you don't have that, then find something else. Seriously, I can't stress that enough.
What do you like to do besides filmmaking?
- I love the outdoors, I spend a lot of time at the beach, hiking, mountain biking, chopping firewood. It gives you a perspective that you don't receive anywhere else. Letting your mind go to think creatively and to self examine.
Have you had any other jobs before you decided to become a filmmaker?
- To be a filmmaker, you need to be a Jack of all trades.
What are some of your favorite American films? Foreign films? Television shows?
- Man, that's a tall question. I'll just name what comes to mind first, otherwise this will be a long interview. Best TV: Breaking Bad, Mad Men and the 1st Season of Twin Peaks, there is nothing better, those shows are one long movie. No other shows do that. American/Foreign films I'll give you my loose top 10: Aguirre the Wrath of God, Citizen Kane, Apocalypse Now, Jaws, Halloween (1978), Rosemary's Baby, The Shining, Ken Park, Clean Shaven, Blue Velvet.
How would you describe your film education?
- Hands on, nothing is better
What is the casting process like?
- Usually through different social outfits like Model Mayhem or a shout out to friends I know. It depends on the project and who I write the films for.
How would you describe the film "scene" where you live?
- We're growing, but not in a unified way really. We have two film festivals that show a variety of varied genres which is good. We have the rich and famous filmmakers who live here seasonally and local filmmakers like myself who are DYI. Being on an island it's tough, but always someone comes through when you need it.
How has social media changed the independent film industry?
- It's the best Fanzine out there! Seriously, you can have Barbara Crampton or Bruce Campbell following you on Twitter or Facebook. It helps reach fans I never else would have had.
What's your opinion on crowdfunding?
- I love the idea, I think it gives people the power to become apart of a project they believe in. Though I'm switching over to a new site starting up, FunderThunder.com which offers more for it's members and uses paypal! This makes me very happy.
How does independent film differ from the mainstream?
- The amount of MONEY spent.
You could go back in time and see any film being made. Which film would it be and why?
- Ah, man now that's not fair, any of my top ten. Though the closest that I've been there was Jaws, my friend Matt Taylor just put out his book JAWS: Memories from Martha's Vineyard which I helped him on. I got to see images and video and hear interviews before the book was published. That was very special to me.
What's your favorite movie quote and why?
- There's too many, but here is one from Aguirre the Wrath of God: "I, Aguirre, want the birds to drop dead from the trees...then the birds will drop dead from the trees. I am the wrath of god. The earth I pass will see me and tremble. But whoever follows me and the river, will win untold riches." I saw this movie when I was 12, it changed my life.
What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?
- Hollywood has always gone through phases on how to make a buck. Originality was never their strong suit.
What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?
- Some books and short stories have made great movies Shawshank Redemption, Carrie, Jaws for some examples. There are some movie adapts though I would have rather kept in my imagination.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
We are always looking for support, please visit www.darksidefilms.com
Thank you to all our new fan base which is growing every day!
- Keep it Dark
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Rex Sikes' Movie Beat Host
Rex Sikes is an actor (SAG/AFTRA), a producer (EP, creative & line), UPM a director, 1st AD, a seminar leader, keynote presenter and a professional coach for speakers & actors. He looks to add value & contribute to productions in front of & behind camera. Contact Rex to discuss how he can help you.
Rex speaks to the film community on producing, directing & acting. His topics included what to do and what not to do to get your film, TV or web project made on time and under budget. He addresses how producers, directors, cast & crew need to work and interact in order to have the smoothest shoot possible.
Rex Sikes' Movie Beat "Conversations with Filmmakers" is a master class in filmmaking! Listen as Rex talks with celebrities, professional filmmakers and friends on how to make movies and TV. Rex's guests share their goals, challenges, surprises, advice, tips and secrets to help filmmakers get their projects made faster, more easily, less expensively and to advance their own careers. The official website is rexsikes.com - listen in to these fabulous interviews today.
Visit Rex Sikes' MOVIE BEAT "conversations with filmmakers" and tune into live and archived interviews, movie news and blogs. All interviews record live and then are archived at rexsikes.com at the INTERVIEWS blog which stores guest biographies you can read and the links you use to listen to live or archived shows All Rex Sikes' Movie Beat shows are also available as podcasts from Itunes. Be sure to listen today. Video interviews Rex conducts are available here and at his website or facebook profile and on youtube.
What is the current project you are working on?
Rex: First let me say thanks for taking the time to invite me to answer these questions. I appreciate that very much. I’m involved in a number of projects besides, my Rex Sikes’ Movie Beat, which is a website and show devoted to educating filmmakers and performers in the business aspects of show business.
Let me digress. When I was younger I always wished I had a mentor who could guide my career and mold me and educate me in what to do and what not to do. A mentor is necessary and worth his or her weight in gold. In those days when I was a young actor there were no schools or educational outlets offerings teaching the business side to an acting or filmmaking career. Since I had no one to guide me in business I focused only on “the” craft. That is lopsided – we are in show BUSINESS – we need to be good at the show and educated and smart about the business. Not knowing the business side is unfortunate because success leaves clues. If you can find out what others do to be successful and what they avoid doing then you can re-create that effort and apply it to your own aspirations but you need someone or someway to learn to know what to do.
SO I devoted my show to helping people on both sides of the camera learn the business so they can be successful and accomplish their dreams. My pet phrase, and partial title of my forthcoming book is “Movie Making is about more than making movies”. It is about knowing the business, being professional and networking, connecting and developing long-lasting win/win relationships. It is about contributing to others first so that they can contribute to you too.
Now as to what projects I have currently –I have the 1st ever live action, motion capture, animated sit com TV pilot in post, another TV pilot in development and we are shooting a test show, an indie feature in post that I was a producer on and star in, another indie horror film I co-produced and line produced, a short I am about to direct, and three other specific feature projects in development among other things. I have numerous films I star in or appear in coming out or being released on DVD.
Did you always want to be the host of your own show?
Rex: Not really, never thought about it until I decided someone needed to do something. I have been on camera host for some web shows, some TV, and a front person for a few festivals and conventions. I have also been an entertainer since a child, doing after dinner, corporate and college programs and a seminar leader, trainer and coach for professional speakers and actors – so I suppose hosting my own show was a natural transition. The point behind my show is to do what makes one successful, replicate that, follow the formula in your own unique way (no one needs another copy) and don’t do the stupid things (that I did) that inhibit success of make the likelihood less assured. I have no issue with being self-deprecating I did some pretty bone head things as a young talent, I wasted lots of time and energy not knowing what to do and if I can help only one person to do better than I did in that fashion than I have succeeded.
My goal is to hand someone the information, the skills, the football (so to speak) and let them make the touchdown on their own having run with what they know, using what they know, then they make their own successes. I may be the catalyst by pointing the way and providing the necessary skills and or education but it is by them applying it smartly that THEY make the difference and create their own success. SO I love the position I am in as host because I play the intermediary between the listener and the person I am connecting them up with. I am the party host who makes the introduction.
Put another way my ultimate goal is to provide value, to be a resource and connect them up in ways they may not otherwise have access. I do truly enjoy having this show, so many incredible guests and wonderful listeners. PLUS I have some interviews on a YouTube channel and I was asked to put my show on live Ustream by a producer friend, we have talked briefly about that and hopefully we will continue to explore it soon.
My program is available online at the web address at the INTERVIEWS blog page. Scroll through archives, or search guest name. Read biographies and within biography is link to listen live or archived. All interviews are also podcasts available from the Itunes store.
What inspired you to become involved in the independent film industry?
Rex: I have been an actor and filmmaker since a child, as well as a child entertainer, and whether independent or studio projects I love this business. It pretty much is all I ate, drank, slept and dreamt about since childhood. I loved living in Los Angeles because it is the home and it has the history of this industry that I enjoy and love. If I could I would live and work everyday in L A.
What is the best thing having your own talk show?
Rex: One is that I am the person who connects the workers with the hopefuls. My listeners are from all over the world and at all levels of the profession. From A- list listeners to newbie filmmakers and film fans. My show is nuts and bolts what to do and what not to do show. I started it by asking friends to come on and talk about what they do and how they do it. So I get to have friends and acquaintances on my show, professional people who are doing it, making it happen, who have their own successful careers, and celebrity. I occasionally have newer talent or filmmakers on so listeners can hear and learn from their accomplishments and their struggles too. All of us have both highs and lows no matter where we are on our career ladder.
What is the worst thing about having your own talk show?
Rex: That, at this stage, I am married to it, I have to be there when I say I will, I schedule my guests, do the web site and promotion pretty much all on my own and that makes it another full-time job. I’d rather leave the set and do the show having it all already in place and taken care of for me. Some day, some day soon I hope.
What is your process when choosing the guests you want to have on your show?
Rex: Who are they, what have they done professionally, credits, how are they known what is their reputation, do we know each other personally– are we friends. By their reputation ... Reputation and what value they can add to the listener’s experience. My goal, as stated in my materials, is to have everyone from Executive Producer to Craft Service behind the camera, all the collateral people, agents, managers, publicists, etc., and on camera celebrity talent as my guests. I want listeners to hear from professionals who are in the trenches. I want professionals who are in the trenches everyday doing what others want to be doing. I want everyone above the line, the directors, writers, producers and actors but I really want all the below the line crew too – the grips, gaffers, construction workers, PAs. I want everyone to have a voice and to describe what they do and how they do it on air to others. I want to do this with each position. For example, I want grips to be able to listen to another grip talk about what their experience is like. I want someone who doesn’t know what a grip is to be able to find out and I want the person who wants to become a grip to get an idea of what to expect.
Movie making is a collaborative effort and all parts and peoples are necessary. The reason why crew size is as large as it gets, besides union involvement and requirements IS because each person or position is necessary. It evolved – someone one day had to send someone out to get plants for the set and decided in the future it would be wiser, easier and more cost-effective to just have a greens person. Necessity is the mother and father of development and innovation. Hence, each position is a position to be respected – AND – respect the person in that position NO MATTER WHAT IT IS. Everyone on the team from the person who puts it up on the screen to the person sweeping up cigarette butts IS important and to be valued because if you don’t have someone sweeping the butts up – you are going to have to do it so you better appreciate and respect the person doing it for you.
What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?
Rex: I have no idea. Truly, IMDB lists partial credits not all, half I have forgotten, then there are those you work on that never go anywhere or disappear at different stages of development, etc. I don’t know, but there have been many, not as many as some people and probably more than some other people.
Who is your favorite filmmaker?
Rex: I cannot answer. When I was younger I would say this person or that person – now I appreciate different aspects of different individuals rather than simply revering one complete person.
How has your life changed since you became the host of your own show?
Rex: I’m busier all around, I spend more time doing the show and not doing other things and vice versa, and I am enriched and lucky. I have great friends and acquaintances and am delighted and honored when anyone wants to come on the air with me.
People come out of the woodwork too. I get lots of requests for me to interview them. I find that amusing. Someone I do not know or know about will email me and say they would like for me to interview them – now I like that and I find it funny. Now I mean absolutely no disrespect to anyone but the question that always enters my mind is WHY? Why should I interview you? What have you done? What value do you add to the discussions I have? Are you interested in sharing your expertise with others and help them get ahead or do you just want to hear your own voice over the air and say you were interviewed? NOW I know that sounds harsh but I do have to have some objective qualifying standards. Personally, I might like to hear from everyone but I don’t have the time to interview everyone and I have to keep my listeners in mind. SO I have to think about what kind of interview adds value to my listeners AND what kind of interview adds value to my guest. So, it is a fine and tricky balance and if I learn about someone I may include that person in the upcoming roster.
People send me books, CDs, screeners all the time to introduce themselves as possible guests and that is fine. At least I can see their work, written or film and get an idea. Some things I get are very, rough or not very professional, so Id’ have to ask what will my listeners get from an interview with this person – and honestly they might get lots of good things or perhaps not. If the material is outstanding or from a professional who we may know or not but they have been doing it credibly for years – well again they might contribute lots to the listeners or not much at all. Fortunately, I have been lucky in choosing and have enjoyed most if not all of my guests immensely. I think I also have a good sense because my structure is in providing mentors to listeners.
What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who wants to make it in the movie business?
Rex: DO it and do it smart. Listen to my show and find people who are doing what want to do and WHO are already successful and model what they do – copy their efforts while remaining true to who you are. I mentioned this earlier. NO one wants a copy – but a true maverick has a difficult road too. You know that all artists die poor but their estates may become rich because now the artist is gone and their works now become rare. Well, in the same way as unknown talent no one knows who you are, many won’t even care about you – that is just the fact of it. SO follow the formula – use the formula – embrace the formula – because that is what people are already familiar with and want – BUT be unique, be yourself.
What do I mean? Okay a horror film that genre has certain elements everyone expects – they are familiar with how a horror flick is supposed to be – so do it – give them that but make it a great story, different from whatever has been written, novel new, with a twist but fit it into the accepted format. The same is true about westerns, romance, romantic comedies etc. If you say you are doing a TV show shoot it like a TV show is shot – not like a feature film – because they are different. Do what is already working but put your own spin on it, your own signature. Then you have an easier time.
Consider this too – there is no Elvis impersonator who is as famous, successful or rich as Elvis and that is because we don’t want or need another one. We don’t want a copy – we want the original. The copy is amusing, talented but it is a copy. SOOOO be yourself, be original but take the well travel path to success, do what works, while remaining true to who you are. Ta Da! I hope this concept is clear inside this brief description of what I mean. Let your passion, love, and enthusiasm drive you and stay with it. An over night success truly is 10 years or more in the making. Check IMDB credits if you think I am not spot on with this point.
What are some of your favorite American films? Foreign films? Television shows?
Rex: I Go back to – I appreciate different aspects of different shows but I will for the purpose of actually answering one of these questions give you some of my favorites film and TV. Twin Peaks, Casablanca, Buffy the Vampire Slayer TV series, Picket Fences, Rebel Without A Cause, Rescue Me, Entourage, Eureka, The Shield, Man in A Glass Booth, Alien, The Nitwits, Duck Soup, and so many more I can’t begin to name – but if you look into the list perhaps a glimmer of why I chose these may become obvious… maybe not… think quirky, gritty, multifaceted, bizarre, twisted, but good story driven, good acting, good production value (all things considered) … ok
How would you describe your film education?
Grew up loving film, making film, became a professional by 18, took film classes in L A and became a professional acting workshopee – meaning if I was not working on a film or play I was studying or acting in an acting workshop. Most of my experience is practical not theoretical. My degree is in communication not film. The bottom line is I am still learning and my gawd there is so much more out there to learn, I am barely scratching the surface.
How would you describe the film "scene" where you live?
It is a struggle of talents. The downside - It is competitive and fragmented, when it should be a healthy community. It is yet to become that. It tends to be clicky and snobby. People here need to learn to support each other and help each other. As with other locales and people if someone announces a project other filmmakers may be quick to dismiss them, OR to envy and wish them ill.
My goal has been try to help or assist on any number of projects just to help them get done. And in doing that I have had great connections and fun, met wonderful people and enjoyed so much and been benefited while attempting to benefit others. I have also been abused and burned. Sometimes because someone is a novice and doesn’t know any better (although the should) and other times because that was just the kind of person/s they were. Everything we do provides us the opportunity to learn. I have been doing this for over 40 years and I am still learning and still making mistakes. When I take myself too seriously that is a much larger mistake so I try not to do that or hold grudges either.
I believe that you are known by whether you keep your word or not and by who some of your friends are. I have recently trusted people I should not have. NOW I don’t tell you that so you say “poor Rex” but rather to illuminate us all to the idea that anyone can make mistakes at anytime. Could I have avoided these situations, most probably, could I have insisted on certain guarantees, yes but since I did not – I take my lumps and learn to do things somewhat different for the future.
Since this is not an industry state as is California – most people seem to be part-time, and or want to leave and go to L A. People come and go here because there is no professional industry to work in – which is how it is in most of this country’s local areas. Since there is no “real” industry people don’t keep commitments as they ought to in any business. Since many projects are low, micro or no-budget projects some people don’t give their all as they would in Hollywood. There are few to none professional examples here so people just don’t know. Most have never been on a professional set or a union shoot so they don’t know how things operate or can operate.
We had state tax credits that helped attract movie businesses into our state but then the state stopped the program and movie businesses stopped coming as well. Incentives and state politics are area of interest for me which we can discuss some other time.
Having stated the down side of where I currently reside, there are also some incredibly talented, marvelous, wonderful, people here trying to make films or act in some fashion. They struggle to find financing and cast and crew, but they do the best they can. Being in an area of limited professional resources these people become more driven and innovative. So there are some dedicated, creative, insightful, hardworking people. ON the down side we have less summer here than the west coast but we have all four seasons to shoot in. We have rural areas and larger cities. We have forests, bluffs, and a great big lake. There are many advantages to being here and if we had tax credits that invited outside businesses in to work AND were applicable for locals to take advantage of we would be a powerhouse of film, TV and content manufacturing.
So the situation is a mix - upside and downside. We need to build a strong, co-operative community where people help each other, support each other, encourage each other and we need to create more resources and work for everyone. We need to decide do we want a film industry here and if so work hard to create that industry as opposed to just having some filmmakers here. I want to see the industry grow. I'd like to see people treat this as a business whether they get paid or not, instead of as a hobby. We have had people not show up to sets because something else came up and they did not even bother to call. We DO have incredible people here too, and nice people who, if we all work together, can raise the standards and develop something truly fabulous. This is what I would like to see happen and I am doing everything I can think of to assist in this creation. We need to elevate people not bring them down and in doing so we can make our dreams come true. It is actually all about adding value and contributing and sharing more than anything else.
How has social media changed the independent film industry?
Rex: It has emphasized the community aspect of our industry.It has connected us up with big fish and small all around the world in ways we have never been socializing before. It has allowed us access to people, ideas, information and resources that we could probably not ever imagined having two decades ago. It allows us to collaborate with people we would not have known. It levels the playing field, and it allows for two-way communication, it allows us to associate with people we can add value to and who can add value to us.
At the same time it increases the noise to signal ratio. Since anyone can make a blog, a podcast, a wall, a website it has given rise to imitators and quacks as well as legitimate professionals. It has given us outlets for entertainment and communication and provided for us a huge waste of time. It is kind of like when you prepare an incredible meal – there are things you throw out. It is incredible – that which you eat – and you don’t eat everything.
Anyone can now make a movie and promote it through social means. That is fantastic and it means more bad projects get made and promoted along with the good ones. Ultimately, things get sorted out even without an official gatekeeper. There is so much to discuss on this question alone wow.
Social media is an incredible opportunity and not all of it is good. It is up to each of us to monitor how, when and why we use it so that it is the best and most productive use of our time and resources instead of a waste.
The Internet allows us access to more information than ever before – yet sadly the good stuff is buried behind pages of corporate advertising disguised as both pro and con articles. It means we have to become smarter and wiser again – and that is a good thing. It allows me to reach untold numbers of people worldwide and create friendships and exchanges as never before in history – at low-cost in real-time, so WOW how incredibly cool is that? Very cool!
What is the interview process like?
Rex: I ask they answer. I never try to trick or make a guest look bad. We discuss what we will talk about prior to the show. I tell them my wishes and ask them theirs. I want to hear what they have to say – so I try not to talk too much. Some times I talk more than at other times because really these are conversations. The official subtitle of my show is “conversations with filmmakers” so it is an exchange predicated on asking questions and getting clarification. I add to the conversation when I believe it is relevant, or when I can provide an anecdotal example, or if I ask a question from the chat room. The chat is open during the show so people can ask questions they can also email them in – in advance. Not that many people take advantage of emailing questions but some do.
How does independent film differ from the mainstream?
Rex: Well I could go on for quite sometime – for the quick answer - both have different access to funding and resources. Currently, we see a lot of blockbuster CGI animated movies involving super heroes with ultra large budgets and the reason for this is that the studios CAN do this. It is their niche and so they do it because no one else can. It is far too costly. So independent movies tend to be smaller, character and story driven and fewer screens. There are many other aspects we can compare and contrast at another time.
You could go back in time and see any classic film being made. Which film would it be and why?
Rex: For different reasons – Citizen Cane – because it is so myth laden it would be nice to know what really happened. I’d have wanted to be on the set of George Stevens The Nitwits because I love Wheeler and Woolsey. Now for the more current – mostly television, Twin Peaks – I do really like David Lynch and would enjoy working with him at any opportunity. I would have like to have been on the set of a few series – working or witnessing – Buffy the series, The Shield and Rescue Me. Because I think TV has matured and been providing us in some cases with better entertainment than many recent feature films. Nowadays movies are remaking television more frequently and not doing a very good job while television is providing us with some incredible cable series.
What do you think about sequels and remakes?
Enough already in many cases – but I have favorite detective series I read and hope the author keeps writing. Doyle killed off Sherlock Holmes but brought him back due to public outcry. So yes it has its place JUST DO IT WELL. A sequel should be better than the original in my opinion – it should get better not worse – but usually those trying to capitalize on the franchise sacrifice quality for getting it out, or because they think we all want CGI or for whatever reason, other than making it good. My take on this, as I mentioned in the beginning, is that we are in SHOW business. The SHOW people need to learn the business – but the BUSINESS people need to learn what makes a good SHOW. As it is, the show is frequently what the current business people forget all about. They spend their time on packaging, merchandising and ancillary revenue instead of on making it an outstanding movie. It becomes too much about the business deal or package than it is about the show being a great story we’d love to watch.
The studios have been taken over by business people who know NOTHING about good show. You need both – bring back the days of the studio heads whose names were above the doors – not corporate faceless entities without accountability. When your name is on something hopefully that inspires you to seek to provide value – to make something worthwhile and something good. When it is a faceless corporate sales force with no one person accountable nothing good can come of this. Bring back the Mayers, the Warners, The Goldwyns, The Selzniks, The Thalburgs who while not everything was a hit or great, at least they seemed to try – if for no other reason than it was their reputation at stake. Reputation and money should guide us not only money.
What's your opinion on crowdfunding?
Rex: I think it is great. It has opened up avenues that never before existed, it puts interested parties directly in contact with the filmmakers and the project. Crowdfunding generates a new level of interest because people have the opportunity to participate in the project. It is give and give – win/win when done correctly filmmakers return items, limited editions and opportunities to the contributors – it is an exchange – not a donation. Crowdfunding opens the possibility of a dialogue, a two-way street, an exchange of goods or services, a relationship begins so it is exciting at so many levels and we have yet to see what it will evolve into and what opportunities are yet to come.
I have assisted some campaigns in reaching their goals, a few very directly and some others more at the periphery. I try to be supportive of all I see on Twitter or Facebook whenever I can because I know how hard it is to raise money or make movies. That does not mean I am donating to every or any particular campaign. Rather, I am mentioning all the ones of which I am aware, even ones I may know anything about. I am trying to draw attention to them so people can check them out and make the decision to be involved or not. If I do know a filmmaker or their project is worthy I will shout that from the treetops. I have had some filmmakers on my show who were running campaigns who got very near or actually made their goal while on the air with me. That is very exciting.
In examining campaigns, and having been involved even more directly in one particular campaign than I just described I do think there is a great amount of responsibility on the filmmaker to make it work successfully or not. It is like a telethon, a carnival barker – it is how you work it, what you give away, what you offer in exchange, the perceived value in the filmmakers and/or in the finished project, the trust that exists. Again it is the creation of a relationship. One campaign I worked on I do not think it would have been nearly as successful as it was because the filmmakers didn’t do much – they were “busy”. So I tweeted and Facebooked and brought attention to it – and I was involved so some people donated because of me.
I can tell you how much I appreciate those people who did it for that reason. Thanks!
You could be any animal. Which would you be and why?
Rex: Human – I am still endeavoring to be simply human
You could have any super power. What would it be?
Rex: To eat when hungry and sleep when tired.
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
Rex: Yes, I love people, I love movies and I enjoy helping anyone I can. It doesn’t mean everyone I have met I have liked but I try to. I try to emphasize the positive until proven otherwise. EVEN then I try to maintain a learning mode from an abuse rather than merely blame the other for being injurious. There is a knack to doing this and I am not always successful and what I am trying to say is this – I was recently on a movie that was a total cluster f--- a horrible experience for me – and yet all through it a couple thoughts made it more tolerable. One was – “if it is this bad for me how bad must it be for X”? The person whose project it was. This helped me not take it so personally. The other was “we are making a movie! WE ARE MAKING A MOVIE!” I love making movies and sometimes it is tough, sometimes very tough you just have to take the good with the bad. Hang in there and realize you are doing what you hoped to do. Even if the film comes out and is not what you hoped it would be – you worked it and made it happen – whatever your role or position. You are in the movie business and it is not all glamour. Try to be realistic, stay positive, treat people well, be honest, loyal, helpful and add value. There is no one more appreciated than someone who knows what to do, when to do it and does it without being asked. Make yourself irreplaceable by being the person people go to when then want or need something, OR when they want or need to feel better. Inspire others. Never be a door map, respect yourself , honor yourself and respect and honor and like others. Network and build your community – filmmaking is a collaborative effort – no one does it alone so build your community. In this community no one is too big AND no one is too small. Today’s office assistant, or grip or PA is tomorrow’s investor, producer or distributor. Honor others first, invite them into your community, treat them really well, be there for them when they need it – and in return the can be there for you when you need it. Most important – and all these ideas are in my forthcoming book – do these things because that is the kind of person you are not because you want something from others. Do it because you really mean it. Do it from your heart.
People can tell when it is not real. When you do it because that is who you are then it is genuine not obsequious. If you aren’t that kind of person – then you should find another line of work. The movie business is a people business made up of teams working together to get a project completed.
People like and say yes to people that they. SO be likeable and like people. Heck, love them. Love making movies. Have fun and enjoy it. No matter what find the positive side. Find that place inside you that decides you can make it happen even if the going is tough. Inspire yourself and inspire others. Be thrilled and feel lucky that you get to do this because we are truly lucky when we can. Make your movies. Complete your projects and make your dreams come true. That is a wrap!
Thanks for doing the interview Rex. I'm a fan of you and your show. I always visit your site to stay update to date on your show. Keep me posted on the progress of the T.V. pilots, short and features.
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!
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