Susanne And Trevor: A Mother And Son Filmmaking Team

Susanne Swanson-Bernard is a 3 time published author, freelance writer and poet as well as an award winning photographer and activist. She occasionally works on film project, especially if it can help her advocacy causes or if it involves one of her passions. She currently lives in Boise, Idaho.  Readers can learn more about Susanne at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=688596382&sk=info



Trevor Bernard is a filmmaker & poet. Residing in Boise, ID, Trevor has shot various short films as well as a cancer PSA & dozens of stop-motion segments. Drawn to all things artistic, Trevor spends his time drawing, sculpting, writing, playing guitar & of course...filming.

Aside from poetry, Bernard also writes reviews of filmmaking books for Michael Wiese Productions. Readers can learn more about trevor at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001513151604&sk=info

What is the current project you are working on?

Susanne: We are working on a documentary film hybrid about poetry and its effect on the human condition. We hope for this film to be very different from the standard/ordinary documentary, in the way it looks, and the way the information is delivered to viewers. This film will be entertaining to a broad audience and will be of social, historic and literary relevance. We hope to give the topic of poetry the rock star treatment!  Additionally, and sadly, after we interviewed Scott Wannberg, our first poet, we learned that he passed away on August 19th, so we were asked if Beyond Baroque could view some of the footage we filmed (the last footage of Scott), during a send off celebration in Scott's honor on September 17th. We decided to do them one better and edit Scott's footage into a separate tribute DVD for his send off. We've actually finished the tribute film for Scott Wannberg and put it on the market just recently.  It is titled "Meeting Mr. Mumps" after the title of one of Scott's first books.  The short film is now available for purchase at Beyond Baroque in Venice, CA. Early reviews have been outstanding and we've had the film reviewed from as far away as the UK and France and by a poet and award winning filmmaker by the name of Apryl Skies who runs her own publishing house at www.EdgarAllenPoet.com. The project we're working on now that we've completed the tribute film to Scott Wannberg "Meeting Mr. Mumps", is our feature length Poetry Doc "Hold the Line".  We've been stuck in pre production hell, but are ready to launch our Kickstarter trailer and our page for that and move ahead.  Sadly on Nov. 18th, we learned of the loss of another great poetic voice Mike Taylor.  I'm sure that right now he's giving Scott a great big man hug up in heaven where two great poetic voices will have been re-united.  We'll miss him too.

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

Trevor: Actually for awhile when I was younger, I was really into paleontology, this was after seeing Jurassic Park and the thought of hunting dinosaurs was very appealing. I soon discovered however, that it wasn't the films subject that I was in love with as much as it was the film itself.

What inspired you to become filmmaker?

Susanne: For me, it was the ability of using film, i.e. Public Service Announcements to help my causes, for Trevor it was just a natural extension to what he was already doing.

What is the best thing about being one?

Trevor: Having the ability to tell a story that can move the human heart.

What is the worst thing about being one?

Trevor: The seemingly never-ending search for enough money.

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

Susanne:  I'm currently working on my 5th project.

Who is your favorite filmmaker?

Trevor: I draw inspiration from Martin Scorsese, Peter Jackson, Robert Rodriguez...the list goes on...

Susanne: For me I'd have to say Ridley Scott and I love the visuals Julie Taymor used in films such as "Frida".

Trevor: Indeed

How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker?

Trevor: I watch movies in a different way now, everything is a study of the art. Film fulfills me.

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

Susanne: I'll let Trevor field that question, I don't really have any designs on working steadily in film.

Trevor: Do lots of research...in all fields, know lighting, know cinematography and sound. This will make you a better team player and if you ever need to fly solo you will know what needs to be done. Never stop learning and don't loose sight of what brought you into filmmaking.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

Susanne: The arts in general are captivating, I love photography, some multi media art, but I also enjoy language arts, philosophy and travel, and I’m and activist for Ric O’Barry and his plight to save the dolphins and all whales, as well as the battle to save the American Mustang.

Trevor: There is stuff besides filmmaking?

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

Susanne: I've had a variety of jobs that included a career in law-enforcement, a veterinary surgical technician and horse trainer, an author, child advocate and I'm a fine art photographer. My son is the real filmmaker.

Trevor: This and that...but a little more of this than that.

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

Trevor: I love the classics, King Kong ect. most Tarantino films and a lot of independent stuff pretty much everything IFC comes out with. As for foreign...Pan's Labyrinth is a master piece. When it comes to TV, Dexter and nothin' but.

How would you describe your film education?

Trevor: A healthy mix of Guerrilla Filmmaking with an internship that followed a good basic art foundation, online courses and hands-on training mixed with a lot of book-learning.

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

Susanne: Surprisingly vibrant actually. Boise is quite progressive. Most people think that it is very rural and all about potatoes, but it is very hip and edgy and down-town is hopping with artists in all media.

How has social media changed the independent film industry?

Susanne: I think it’s like night and day. I mean with the internet truly anyone can become a star. One example would be the gent that replaced Steve Perry in Journey! He was discovered on You Tube.

What's your opinion on crowd-funding?

Susanne: Crowd funding seems to be the way to go. We've done a lot of research and with a film such as ours, that deals with poetry, it's a topic with which we could go for a grant via the National Endowment for the Arts, but by the time you become a 501 C 3 and pay that fee, sign up and write for a grant, it's too much time waisted. Time is money in this business as in all others. Crowd funding has been highly recommended to us. We'll try to use that method.

Trevor: Yeah, exactly...we will find out in about a month from now, but going into it...I feel it's a great way for the people to support projects they care about and sort of wrangle together the creative community.

What is the casting process like?

Susanne: It is different with a documentary, so rather than seeking a person that has good chemistry with the other “actors”, or acts well, we have a slant, a certain direction for this film. So we look for poets that have written pieces that speak to that slant of social relevance or the present human condition.

How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

Trevor: I feel pretty strongly that independent film has much more heart than what is typically seen in mainstream cinema. With indy films it's not about commercialism of selling a product. It's about the story, the character, the over all message. These things tend to get lost in big Hollywood productions.

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

Trevor: 1933, King Kong. This is the film that set in stone my love of filmmaking and it was beautifully filmed.

What's your favorite movie quote and why?

Trevor: "People look stupid when they cry" - Rain Wilson in Super. I could not stop laughing.

What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

Trevor: This really depends on the filmmaker. If it's an individual who can't come up with an original idea and wants to make a quick buck by copying work than that will translate to the film and it will suck. However, when you have someone that is very passionate about a particular picture then you know that work will be in good hands. The goal with remakes is to complement the original, the goal with sequels is to know when to stop.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

Susanne: I feel they must truly stay close to the written word.

Author Leslie Ann Wright

Leslie Ann Wright is an avid reader and writer. She resides in the Northwest with her husband Terry. When she is not reading or writing you can find her with her daughters and grandchildren in either Tampa, Florida or Scottsdale, Arizona.

What is the current project you are working on?

I am working on several; the focus is an interesting take on the blades used in murder throughout the years, called the Karma Stone.  I am also working on an investigative sister team with paranormal abilities as well. It is yet unnamed.

How do you set your book apart from other books in the genre?

It has been said that there are never any new ideas, and yet I pick and poke until I find something that is unique or just a bit different. I try to imbue a freshness and newness to the work.

What inspired you to become a writer?

I have lived in books my entire life, they have been my passion and my escape, and they have been my adventure and my danger. I know how I felt when life was not at its greatest, and I could pick up a book and remove myself from any outside worries by becoming a part of the story. I think we all need an escape at times, and I hope I can do that for others.

What is the best thing about being a writer?

The glow you feel upon completion, but also the feeling you get when someone likes your work. It is quite euphoric.

What is the worst thing about being one?

The rejection letters and the reviewers that do not like your work is somewhat difficult. It is tough to put your all into something and have it rejected.  It is not always easy to remember that writing is subjective, not everyone likes everything, and we would not want that to be any different.

What advice would you give to an aspiring writer?

Don’t wait. Now is a wonderful time to write, and we are on a new frontier with self-publishing, so even if you don’t get the proverbial brass ring with an agent or publisher, there are more options than ever before.

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

I would say between 12-15 stories, many of them still in the works. I actually have a short holiday story called The Christmas Star as part of an Anthology called Christmas Lites coming out on November 25th, all proceeds from the book will go to charity. Sponsored, and put together by Creative Reviews on Good Reads, the event should be exciting.

What do you like to do besides writing?

I also read and write reviews, I enjoy visiting with friends and spending time with family.

Who is your favorite author?

I am enjoying the work of Laurel Dewey, she has a great detective series, with just a little paranormal thrown in.

What are some of your favorite books?

The Last Unicorn is one of my all-time favorites; I really enjoy the Mist born series, and the work by Kelly Armstrong. I also enjoy the Noah Bishop series.

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

Not very prolific. I have not met or found any writers closer than 50 miles away, and even there they are not yet serious and ready to move into print.

How has social media changed the publishing industry?

I believe it has created a new dimension in reading, but not all the books are done well. I do think it has and will change the publishing community, they are very set in the types of books to look at and work with, and I believe that with both self-publishing and the Social media, those that are great writers can still be very successful without the full trappings of a book contract.

What is your thought process like when you're writing? 

I follow the flow of my fingers. When I am writing I do not follow a process so much. The story flows and I am not sure where it is going. I am usually surprised at where the direction takes me. I have often tried to write work that is more contemporary and yet the paranormal seems to intrude.

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

I would like to be able to fly. I think it would be amazing.

Do you believe in life on other planets?

I do, but then I believe in many things. Do I believe life on other planets is anything like our own, probably not.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptations?

I believe it depends on the book. Some of them adapt very well to movies, and others are a bit more difficult, creating too much of a difference to hold the same fans.

If you could have any first addition book.

Which would it be and why? Call of the Wild by Jack London. Jack London was one of the authors that fired my imagination as a child and one of the muses to my writing.

"Squaresville" Star Kylie Sparks

After getting her start in community theater in her native Tulsa, OK, Kylie Sparks' professional debut came at 16 when she in starred in the IFC Films and InDigEnt feature "Pizza," alongside Ethan Embry ("Sweet Home Alabama," "That Thing You Do!," Showtime's "Brotherhood"), Julie Hagerty ("Airplane!"), Judah Friedlander ("30Rock") and Miriam Shor ("Hedwig and the Angry Inch"), among many others. ...After making the rounds on the festival circuit, including the world premiere in competition at the Los Angeles Film Festival, IFC Films released "Pizza" in theatres, on DVD, and is now available on iTunes and Netflix Instant.

After "Pizza," Kylie recurred on "Complete Savages" and "Desperate Housewives," as well as guest starred on "Melissa & Joey," "Bones," "ER," "Greek," "Traffic Light," and "Campus Ladies," and is currently starring on the upcoming webseries "Squaresville." Kylie also recently performed as part of an all-star ensemble in the Outfest Screenwriters Lab Readings selection "GBF" directed by Darren Stein ("Jawbreaker").

Kylie graduated high school at 16 and after studying French and Music, she graduated from the University of Southern California with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre with a Musical Theatre emphasis. She is also an alumna of the acclaimed 'Broadway bootcamp,' Broadway Theatre Project in Tampa, FL

In her downtime, Kylie enjoys singing, music, writing, travelling, exploring Los Angeles with friends, and relaxing with her two dogs Daphne and Gemma. Her birthday is January 27.

 

What is the current project you are working on?

I'm currently in the middle of production on season one of  "Squaresville" at the moment!

How is doing a webseries different & similar from doing a TV show or film?

It's really not all that different.  The pace is faster than most things I've done (shooting 6 episodes with a few minisodes in 6 days is a lot!) and we have a smaller crew than many productions, but it's the same idea.  I actually like the faster pace because it makes me stay focused on what needs to get done!

What are the similarities and differences between you and your "Squaresville" character?

Esther and I both have a very sarcastic sense of humor and we're both pretty loud, but I'd like to think I'm a little more bubbly and outgoing than how Esther is, and Esther definitely has her own way of handling conflict and crazy situations!

How do you define success?

I think success is subjective-you can make all the money in the world and be famous but if you're not happy at what you do and how you live life, then you aren't successful.  Success really is about how you feel in your life, and I think it always changes based on your goals and desires.

How do you handle rejection?

Laugh.  There will always be haters and people who talk about you and how you may not be pretty enough, tall enough, thin enough, etc., but it's all really silly, so I try and have a good time regardless if it's going to go my way or not.  I have some great friends who have my back and two awesome dogs and my kickass mom who has always supported me in everything I've done, and I can count on them to be there for me!

Did you always want to be an actress?

Actually, I didn't really know I wanted to be an actor until I was about 13 and I started coming out to Los Angeles.  I wanted to be a doctor, an Olympic swimmer, or a meteorologist (or all three....), but I was always in musicals and took dance, voice, and acting lessons outside of school, so when I finally came out to LA to audition for movies and TV, I realized this was the only thing I could do.

 What inspired you to become an actress?

We have this thing in the second grade at the school I went to in Tulsa called the Fairy Tale Tea, where it's basically a bunch of fairy tales put on as little one-act plays.   I was cast as the Wicked Queen in an adaptation of Snow White, and I loved it.  I knew that I wanted to do something like that, but even after getting cast in community theatre roles, it was the idea of something bigger than made me want to be a professional actor.

 What is the best thing about being one?

The fact that you get to step in someone else's shoes for a little bit.  It solves a bit of the mystery behind how people act and behave around others.  Also you get to meet some really awesome people and create a really lovely network of co-workers and friends.

 What is the worst thing about being one?

Being compared to other actors in my type.  I don't really want to be anyone else, I just want to be myself and do what I love, bottom line.

What was your first acting job?


IFC Films' "Pizza," which I did when I was 16 co-starring Ethan Embry and Julie Hagerty, among numerous notable others!

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

Wow, I actually have no clue!  I've done a bit of everything, from commercials to TV to theatre to movies and staged readings...I even sang in my own mini-cabaret a few months ago.  I'm just happy to be working.

 Who are your favorite actors?

I love so many of them that I think we'll be here all day!  My definite top ones are Bradley Cooper, Robert Downey Jr., Gene Hackman, Anjelica Huston, Kate Winslett, Cate Blanchett, Vera Farmiga, George Clooney, Michelle Williams, Meryl Streep (obviously,) Megan Mullally, Eliza Coupe, Alan Cumming, Kristin Chenoweth,  Carey Mulligan, Felicity Huffman (who is amazing, I got to work with her on "Desperate Housewives," and she is so awesome!), Ethan Embry (which seriously made my life complete getting to work with him!), Edie Falco, William H. Macy, Mary-Louise Parker, and so many more.  I am always inspired by any actor doing great work, whether it's a piece of theatre, a sitcom, a TV drama, or a film.

 How has your life changed since you became an actress?

It really hasn't changed much.  If anything, the location changed from Oklahoma to Los Angeles, but other than that it's my job that I do.  I've been so lucky to be able to focus on my career and have people support me, but they always keep me grounded.

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

Tenacity.  It's not easy, but if you really want it and you do the work, it can be the best thing to ever happen to you.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

I don't let grass grow under my feet!  I love working out, writing, exploring (you can usually find me in my car driving around), hanging out with friends, going out and just enjoying.  There's always something you can do in LA, between the museums, the shopping, the restaurants....just taking my dogs to the park is a great time.

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

I have been so lucky and blessed that this is the only job I've ever done since I was 16 years old, even during college.  I have experience in being a personal assistant but it doesn't really count because it's been for my parents, and my parents wanted me to focus on school and career and they would help me out on the rest.  I am just so grateful for that.

How would you describe your film education?

I didn't go to film school; I went to theatre school at USC, but since I've been working since I was 16 and watching movies and TV loooooong before, I feel like I have a pretty nice hands-on education.  However, with every project I've work on, I try to learn something from it so I can make my performance better the next time.  I had NO clue about all the technical aspects on "Pizza" because I had never been in front of a camera before, but I learned so much that by the end of the shoot I knew what to ask, where to stand, how to move, etc.  Each job is so different that I usually learn something about either filmmaking or performance.  With "Squaresville," Matt and I had a discussion about the post-production process, and I learned SO much about the evolution of the post-production process even from five years ago!

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

Films: Empire Records, Garden State, The Hangover, Wet Hot American Summer, Amelie, City of God, Beginners, Midnight in Paris, The American President, Ghost World, Requiem for a Dream, The Social Network, Bridesmaids, Harry Potter (obviously!), Chicago, WALL-E, all of the Christopher Guest movies, all Kevin Smith movies (minus Red State since I have yet to see it), The Motorcycle Diaries, Lost in Translation, The Ides of March was incredible, Never Let Me Go, An Education, The King's Speech....seriously, we are going to be here all day!

TV: Suburgatory, Happy Endings, Mad Men, 30 Rock, Parenthood, Dexter, The Biggest Loser, The Amazing Race, How to Make It In America, Entourage (RIP), the first few seasons of Weeds, Nurse Jackie, and Grey's Anatomy, Freaks and Geeks, Undeclared, Desperate Housewives, ER (back in the day), Kitchen Confidential (which I rewatch on Hulu all the time!), Alias, Sports Night, The West Wing, Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip (I'm a big Aaron Sorkin fan, can you tell?)...I watch a lot of TV.

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

You can't get any bigger than Los Angeles.

 How has social media changed the independent film industry?

I think a lot of films, webseries, and even television shows have been successful because of social media.  I believe Judd Apatow said that Bridesmaids was "the movie Twitter built," and it's so true-it became this huge unexpected hit because of word of mouth.  With so much of our world being interactive and online, a little show people may have not given a chance a few years ago now can become the next big thing.  A good chunk of marketing nowadays relies on social media, so I think as long as you use it to their advantage, you can create successful programming based on a Facebook page or a Twitter account.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

I think sites like Kickstarter and Indie-a-GoGo are wonderful in helping out projects that may not get a chance outside of a major label or company.  Before the "Squaresville" campaign, several friends of mine had launched Kickstarters to get their albums recorded, their short films funded, even their theatre companies launched.  Sometimes we have to take the bull by the horns and do things ourselves, and Kickstarter helps make ideas reality.

 How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

I think independent media has the ability to tell stories that wouldn't normally pass studio gates.  Take a look at some of the films from Sundance this year; I saw "Martha Marcy May Marlene" a few weeks ago, and everything about it was haunting and incredible, but it only saw the light of day because of the film festival circuit helping independent cinema get off the ground.  Independents really do help each other out, and the communal aspect is a major draw for me.

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

This is such a good question!  I think I would LOVE to be either Sam in Garden State or Kathy in Never Let Me Go.  These are two of my favorite roles I've seen in recent years, and they're so unique and challenging in their own ways that it would be an awesome task to take on.

Do you believe in life on other planets?

The universe is so big that I refuse to believe we are the only life that exists.

Do you have any favorite charities?

I really love supporting animal rescue organizations and no-kill shelters (either with money or supplies), as well as pro-women's rights organizations (i.e. Planned Parenthood).  In the past I have also donated to St. Jude and Susan G. Komen, two charities that are vital to our society.

 What's your favorite movie quote and why?

There is a quote in "Contact" that I love that David Morse says-"Small Moves, Ellie.  Small Moves."  I think it just reminds me that we can't rush things.  We have to take our time and do the work, and when we do that, incredible things can happen.

 What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

I think if done correctly, they can be great.  Also, with some sequels, you have to go into it knowing that it's not going to be as good as the original.  If it is, great.  If not, you won't be disappointed.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptations?

They can be hit and miss.  Some are better than the book, while other times the movie will leave major information out which hurts the story, especially if it's widely known.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thank you so much for wanting to interview me!  And watch "Squaresville" when it debuts online in early 2012 at www.squaresvilleseries.com!

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Thanks for doing the interview Kylie.  I recently saw "Pizza". I thought you did a wonderful job. I look forward to "Squaresville" in 2012. You have an open invitation to do another interview for your next project, if you want to.

Cheryl Dunn: Filmmaker And Photographer

Cheryl Dunn is a filmmaker and photographer based in New York City. Her films have played at numerous film festivals including Tribeca, Edinburgh, Rotterdam, Los Angeles and Havana, and on PBS. Her work has been exhibited in various galleries and museums including Deitch Projects in New York, The Tate Modern in London ,and the "Art in the Streets" exhibition at the Geffen Contemporary MOCA. Cheryl was one of the subjects the documentary, book & traveling museum exhibition “Beautiful Losers”. She has had two books of her photographs published - Bicycle Gangs of New York,and Some Kinda Vocation. She is currently in the final stages of a feature documentary "Everybody Street" about NYC street photographers.

What is the current project you are working on?

I am finishing up my feature documentary "Everybody Street " about NYC street photographers.

How do you measure success?

Having an idea and actually making it. Seeing it through. Having the guts to put what you make out into the world.

How do you handle rejection? 

It depends on how it is delivered I think. Rejection is part of life.  Not everything is for everyone. When I think back to all of the times I was rejected it becomes clear that those things I was trying to get maybe were not right for me.  Rejection pushed me in another direction that 10 years later I am very thankful for the path I took because of that rejection was more true to me.

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

I was very open to being anything that would keep my spirit free. That would enable me to have andventures and travel and be physical. When I was under twenty I wanted to be a professional dancer.  A modern dancer.

What inspired you to become filmmaker?

I look back and realize how all the family pictures and movies my mother made of us informed me a lot about having visual records of life and how enjoyable and interesting that was to me. I started taking pictures as a young teenager. In my 20's I starting assisting then shooting professionally. First as an assistant then for myself. Messing round with old 8 mm cams and bolex's. I think I liked the release from the still frame and incorporating many other elements like motion , music , story line .

What is the best thing about being one?

Well I do documentary, so the best thing about that is entering a world and learning so much about something that you didnt know before . The best thing about that is being let into someone's world, someone's head, their trust. That is a big responsibility and I welcome that because I think every human is equally important and their voices should be heard , not just people that are part of celebrity culture which is very twisted and guides a lot of the society. These are not the people who we should be following and learning from. This is not how society advances.

What is the worst thing about being one?

Carrying all the gear and how much it costs.

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

Specifically film projects? Maybe 80 or so ? Don't know.

Who is your favorite filmmaker?

Pedro Almovadar. Les Blank

How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker?

I never get a day off.

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

I dont know. I have not really made it in the movie business. In general, think about why you want to do something. If it is for good reasons, go for it. It will takes years of your life so you should be sure. You can make little things in hours and days and you should always be making things and practicing your craft. You learn the most from mistakes. Better to make mistakes when the stakes are not so high.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

Obviously taking pictures. I love to go to music festivals and take pictures and dance.

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

Photography

How would you describe your film education?

Self taught

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

I live in NYC. It is a creative capital for all things. In NY it is more about independent films. On a smaller scale everyone is making music vids and web films. The technology is so accessable now and print media is dying so it is all about the moving image.  Everyone is in the game.

How has social media changed the independent film industry?

In a big way. More people can make them. You can try to self fund them. You can promote them. It is more DIY than ever before.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

It's a great idea. I'm doing a kickstarter right now.

How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

Independent film is a term used for having things financed out of the studio system. The old models are changing so this definition is changing.

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

Any Fellini film . or early Terrance Malick film . Apacolypse Now, Mean Streets, Taxi Driver, Fitzcaraldo

What's your favorite movie quote and why?

"What's the matter , never scene the sunrise" from the Taking Of Pelham 123

" I'm  walking here." Miidnight Cowboy .

Any thing from Putney Swope.

What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

Don't like them, they should just reissue the first ones with sick sound and new prints. I mean they remade Shaft? Come on .. they do this for current generations as if young people need it to be updated . I think they bank on that the younger generation doesn't really know the earlier film.  I think they are underestimating the intelligence of people and by far they would have greater success just marketing the awesome first one.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

Fine

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Sorry for the misspellings. I'm on a train to Belgrade right now.

Richie Moriarty: Actor, Photographer, Improviser and Writer

Richie Moriarty is an actor (richietown.tumblr.com), photographer (www.richietown.com), improviser (www.improvasylum.com) and writer living in Boston, Massachusetts. Originally from Rockville, Maryland, Richie is a graduate of Boston College. He spends his days working as a professional photographer and many of his nights improvising or performing sketch comedy on stage.

What is the current project you are working on?

I am currently in pre-production on a comedic webseries that I co-wrote with Matt Catanzano, a fellow actor from Improv Asylum. It's called "ETC: Employment Through Craigslist." While looking through the "ETC" section of job postings on Craigslist one day, we realized that there were enough bizarre postings to inspire a series. Each episode of "ETC: Employment Through Craigslist" is based on an actual job posting from the ETC section. We have raised over 50% of our funding for the Kickstarter project for the series (http://kck.st/oG966j) and are planning to shoot the first week in December.

What inspired you to become filmmaker?

My experiences as both an actor and photographer have led me down the path of filmmaking, but I should say that I'm not primarily a filmmaker. I am an actor and a photographer who dabbles in filmmaking. Our Director of Photography, Chris Loughran, is much more of a filmmaker than I am.

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

No, there were a couple of weeks in 1989 when I wanted to be Uncle Jesse from Full House. As you can tell from my headshot, that never panned out.

Who is is your favorite filmmaker?

I'm going to say Terrence Malick, but if you asked me on another day I'd probably give you another answer. I've been on a Malick kick in the last few months. I recently saw Badlands and Days of Heaven after watching Tree of Life and rewatching The Thin Red Line. I really enjoy all of his films.

How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker?

I can no longer watch a film without being distracted by continuity issues. It's annoying.

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

Keep working. Keep creating. It's the only way we get better. I'm paraphrasing This American Life's Ira Glass. Here's his full quote, which I love: "Nobody tells this to people who are beginners, I wish someone told me. All of us who do creative work, we get into it because we have good taste. But there is this gap. For the first couple years you make stuff, it’s just not that good. It’s trying to be good, it has potential, but it’s not. But your taste, the thing that got you into the game, is still killer. And your taste is why your work disappoints you. A lot of people never get past this phase, they quit. Most people I know who do interesting, creative work went through years of this. We know our work doesn’t have this special thing that we want it to have. We all go through this. And if you are just starting out or you are still in this phase, you gotta know its normal and the most important thing you can do is do a lot of work. Put yourself on a deadline so that every week you will finish one story. It is only by going through a volume of work that you will close that gap, and your work will be as good as your ambitions. And I took longer to figure out how to do this than anyone I’ve ever met. It’s gonna take awhile. It’s normal to take awhile. You’ve just gotta fight your way through."

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

I am an actor (richietown.tumblr.com), improv comedian (www.improvasylum.com) and photographer (www.richietown.com).

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

I volunteered as a teacher in Sacramento for a year after graduating from Boston College. I moved back to Boston after that year and worked a few desk jobs before realizing that I just couldn't do that kind of work. I felt trapped and stifled. I left a my job as a fundraiser at a non-profit to work for peanuts at a small video production company that a friend owned. I learned how to edit with Final Cut at that job and learned the basics of lighting, production, storytelling, etc. I had to leave about six months in because I needed money. The appeal of a steady paycheck led me back to an office job. That didn't last long. I now have a great full-time gig as a photographer with an architectural photography company. My schedule is very flexible and I'm able to take time off for acting gigs and other projects. I feel very lucky.

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

Some favorite American films are The Goonies, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Dumb and Dumber, "Trust Us, This Is All Made Up," Wonderboys, The Thin Red Line, The Shawshank Redemption, Good Will Hunting, Saving Private Ryan, Magnolia, When Harry Met Sally, and Rushmore.

Some favorite foreign films are Animal Kingdom, City of God, A Prophet, Amelie, Dogtooth, Bus 174, Y Tu Mama Tambien, Amores Perros, The Lives of Others, and The Diving Bell and the Butterfly.

My favorite television shows are Mad Men, Breaking Bad, The Wire, Friday Night Lights, Modern Family, Community, 30 Rock, The Office, Parks and Recreation, Arrested Development, The West Wing, and The Daily Show.

How has social media changed the independent film industry?

Social media has made it infinitely easier for audiences to find films and for films to find audiences. Some of the viral shorts that I've been in have been viewed hundreds of thousands of times. There's no way that would have been possible without social media.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

We're in the middle of a Kickstarter project that we're getting close to funding in full. I think crowdfunding is really great. It's been amazing to see the support come in from friends, family and perfect strangers that found us through Kickstarter. I think crowdfunding is a great way to really motivate a filmmaker to create high quality work. I think you tend to hold yourself to a higher standard when friends, family and strangers are chipping in to help make your project a reality.

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

The Goonies. Spielberg, Chunk, Sloth, the Fratellis, and Cannon Beach in Oregon? Yes, please.

What's your favorite movie quote and why?

From Wonderboys:
James Leer: Now, that is a big trunk. It holds a tuba, a suitcase, a dead dog, and a garment bag almost perfectly.
Grady Tripp: That's just what they used to say in the ads.

What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

I'm okay with sequels if they tell a new, interesting story. I think remakes are generally lazy and motivated by money.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

We'd love you to donate to our Kickstarter project! Thanks! http://kck.st/oG966j

Dan Founder Of MoviePlayoffs.com

What is "MoviePlayoffs"?

MoviePlayoffs.com is a site for passionate movie fans. On our home page, we run tournaments like Best Movie of All Time, Best Actor of All Time, Best Director of All Time, etc.  The public determines the winners – not the critics. To make it more exciting, all tournaments are in a single-elimination format. We run an annual Best Movie (enter year here) tournament so the public will determine Best Picture for the year, not just an academy with slightly over 5,000 people. This will take time, but if we stick with it, we believe this tournament has incredible potential. Why should an academy choose over the people?

We also have a 10 Minute Movie Contest, where amateur filmmakers can show off their work. This is our busiest page and offers great exposure. One production company is already looking into one of the short films from Season 1.

We also have other games like Movie Unscramble, Movieball, Title Tournament, and Name That Movie. The winner for each contest goes on the Champions Page forever, which our members enjoy.

What inspired you to create "MoviePlayoffs"?

About 10 years ago, I wanted to make it a TV show, but I didn’t have the connections. The idea was on the backburner for a while. After I found out late in 2010 that I was going to be making less money at my job in 2011, I decided I didn’t want to depend on anyone else anymore. I knew it would be a long road, but strongly believed there were hundreds of thousands of people out there who would enjoy MoviePlayoffs.com. That’s when I contacted Joe, the site designer, to see if this would be possible.

How do you define success?

Not having to answer to anyone. :)

How do you handle rejection?

The most talented people in the world always say that you can’t please everyone all of the time. When I get rejected, I just think about that.

Who is your favorite filmmaker?

James Cameron. Genius.

How has your life changed since you created "MoviePlayoffs"?

I have no time to do anything, but I enjoy working on the site. The tough part is working to make money at the same time.

What do you like to do besides running your site?

Travel with family, watch movies, play softball and poker.

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

T2, The Matrix, Field of Dreams, The Breakfast Club, The Big Lebowski. I don’t watch much TV other than the NFL.

How would you describe your film education?

Zero.

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

Almost non-existent.

How has social media changed the film industry?

It has helped the indie community tremendously, which is very cool.

How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

I have noticed that many independent filmmakers are more talented than many professional filmmakers. That’s why people are watching more short films these days.

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

Saving Private Ryan. I want to see how they filmed that incredible opening scene.

What’s your favorite movie quote and why?

“What’s your favorite movie?” “Flowers for Algernon.” “That’s not a movie.” “Haven’t seen it.”

Funny and clever. Adaptation is a clever movie all around.

Do you believe in life on other planets?

Yes.

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

To be able to accomplish three tasks at once. Because you would get three times as much out of life.

What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

I believe quality is quality and garbage is garbage. Depends on remake/sequel.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

Depends on movie/book. I’m not against it.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Yes. MoviePlayoffs.com would not be even remotely possible without Joe’s help. He designed the site and manages a lot of the everyday tasks. He’s easy to work with, intelligent and creative.

Author C.J. West

C.J. West is the author of the thrillers The End of Marking Time, Sin and Vengeance, A Demon Awaits, Gretchen Greene and Taking Stock. Sin and Vengeance, the first book in C.J.’s Randy Black series, is currently in development for film with Beantown Productions, LLC (screenplay by Marla Cukor). C.J. also hosts a Blog Talk Radio show which features interviews of contemporary thriller and suspense writers. Find C.J. at www.22wb.com or at www.cjwestkills.wordpress.com.

What is the current project you are working on?

I'm finishing up Addicted to Love, a thriller about being madly in love. It's a departure from traditional suspense novels, but I really enjoyed writing about the feeling you get when you are so attached to someone that the rest of the world fades away. Addicted to Love is due October 18. I'm also working on a new 5 book series that is more of a traditional mystery series and I'm really excited to take the plunge into writing.

What is the best thing about being a writer?

The early stages of a writing project are for me what it must be like to be hooked on drugs. When I commit to a concept for a new book, I can lock myself in a room and work for days on end and be perfectly content. Plotting a new book, researching science or hobbies or locales, and writing those early drafts are great fun for me.

What is the worst thing about being one?

Poverty.

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

I've worked on 6 books, 5 published and one due this year. I've also worked on one film adaptation (of one of my books) as an advisor. The film adaptation of Sin & Vengeance was a great experience for me even though the adaptation was written by Marla Cukor.

Who is your favorite author?

I really admire Tim Hallinan for his ability to craft lyrical prose.

What are some of your favorite books?

I have really enjoyed: Relic, Through Violet Eyes, Blackhawk Down, Death Troupe and many others.

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

There is no writing scene where I live. I'm in the country where I can find 100 wild animals for every writer I encounter. The solitude makes this a fantastic place to work. I take long walks and soak in the scenery and when I'm finished I'm energized to get back into my work.

How has social media changed the publishing industry?

The combination of social media and electronic publishing have made it possible to make a living as a mid-list writer. I think that is the most important change in the writing community in many years. Readers can connect

with new authors, sample their work, and tell them what they thought of it all without leaving home. This is a remarkable change that is already having a major impact on the industry.

What is your thought process like when you're writing?

As I have matured as a writer, I've begun to think more strategically about my stories. I enjoy exploring my characters' lives and as I learn about them, I think about how to tell their story so it will delight readers.

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

I want to have the power to entertain millions of people with my stories.