Thursday, February 9, 2012

Laura Pizzuti: Actress, Business Woman, Mom, Blogger, Reporter, Host, Print Model



Laura Pizzuti, a graduate of Lynnfield High School and Bentley University, works for her family business in Real Estate. It was while working for the family business that a location scout contacted her looking for space to film scenes for the film Mystic River.  It was during that conversation that he offered her background work on the film. She ended up working as an extra in the film dressed up as a State Police Officer.  This was when she was officially bit with the acting bug. Laura pursued acting for a little over a year before walking away to start a family.  By the end of 2009, Laura went back to fulfilling her dream of working as an actress.  The road has been so interesting and has led to many other amazing and fun opportunities.


Laura has done shoe modeling, print modeling, music videos, hosting, reporting, commercials, voice over, independent films, webisodes and also blogs. Laura is extremely hard working and very professional. She is so happy to find something that has fulfilled her and that she feels passionate about! Laura is constantly out there auditioning, so you never know where you may see her next!


What is the current project you are working on?

I'm involved in a bunch of independent projects right now.

I am "Lil Miss Repo," https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lil-Miss-Repo 135857323182128 Where I play a bad-ass repo girl...

I am Danni in "Pizzer Makers," https://www.facebook.com/pizzermakers  where I play a tough Italian Chick

I play Donna Washington in "Fake This" An undercover FBI agent.

I am working on finishing touches on an independent film called "Disasterpiece" where I play Kim... Love Interest

I play Professor Greene in "Mark of the Dog Rose" https://www.facebook.com/markofthedogrose Obviously I play a professor - but one of my students goes missing.

I work as a reporter/hostess on Dirty Water TV www.dirtywatertv.com Put Laura Pizzuti-Gamache into the search engine on their page.

I also LOVE doing commercials. I hope to do as many as I can!

I am also working on doing voice over work!

How do you define success?

I define success in whatever makes you feel fufilled! I think finding what makes you happy to be a difficult thing... Ultimately, you need to figure out that only YOU can make yourself happy.  You cannot rely on anyone else. Even if you have plenty of LOVE in your life through a boyfriend/husband/children, ultimately each person is different and needs to figure out what will fufill them in order to find their complete happiness. Life is all about balance.


How do you handle rejection?


It is funny, I have pretty tough skin - it barely phases me anymore.  That is why staying busy is so important! That way I can just be like "Next!" and move on.  Why waste ANY energy at all on stuff like that? It is pointless! Of course there are always going to be times where you may be disappointed, but you have to just think there is a reason for this... something bigger or better will hopefully come along!


Did you always want to be an actress? What inspired you to become an actress? What is the best thing about being one?


I don't think I ALWAYS wanted to be an actress... I think I got lucky! I work for my family business in Real Estate and a location scout reached out to me in search for a site for the movie Mystic River. We didn't have the space he needed, but he told me he could get me in the movie as background. I played a state cop, but was never seen in the film. BUT the experience was all I needed to get bit with the acting bug! I pursued it for a little over a year, but then decided I was going to focus on having a family and continue my day job. In 2009, I decided I missed it and wasn't done with acting just yet. I cut down my day job to 4 days to give me more flexibility - plus you can't really make a living off of acting in the New England area! I took off running and haven't stopped yet. Acting is like my therapy... it gives me joy! Plus it is so interesting and has lead to different opportunities! It is definitely never boring and makes me feel alive....
What is the worst thing about being one?

Sometimes you don't get paid!
What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?

Hmmm.. I'm not sure! Probably 30?

Who is your favorite actress? Funny, I don't have an all time favorite!

I enjoy watching Julia Roberts,

Meryl Streep, Kate Winslet, Shirley MacLaine, Diane Keaton, Sally Field, Sandra Bullock, Susan Surandon

I'm probably forgetting some!


How has your life changed since you became an actress?


I'm just busier! I also have to pay more attention to my "upkeep" lol... I need to get my hair done more often and also my nails! I also have a much different and diverse wardrobe than ever before! I have almost every color and I also have clothes that I probably wouldn't normally own, but they come in handy for certain auditions or roles!

I think twice about donating my clothes - you never know if they may come in handy!


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


Get involved in anything and everything! You have to start somewhere! Talk to everyone you come in contact and pick their brain! Take a class...! Network, Network, Network!


What do you like to do besides acting?


I love PRINT work... and hope to do more and more of it! I also have a blog that is also something I am passionate about! www.natickmallguru.com I am the personality and the face behind the largest mall in New England!

How would you describe your film education? I learn a lot just by "Doing" and from watching and taking direction. I have taken a lot of classes through the different avenues available at Boston Casting, CP Casting, Improv etc. It is something that will never end! I plan on continuing my education on a regular basis. When I am not as busy, I sign up for a class.


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


Shows: I was a "Lost" diehard... I was also super into "24" when it first came out but after a couple years got bored with it.  I do enjoy a good reality show in small doses!

I LOVED Titanic when it first came out... I laughed, I cried, I was completely lost in the film...

I also LOVED "The Sound Of Music" as a kid. I remember my mother telling me and my sister to stay up and watch it... I thought it was an old film and no way would I like it... wow was I wrong!


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


It is an interesting network of people! You start to see the same people over and over at auditions. It is nice to have made friends during the process! We all know we can't get EVERY gig, so it is nice to know that one of your friend's may get it... :)


How has social media changed the independent film industry?


It has made people so much more accessible! I think one of the biggest obstacles is letting people know you exist! So for me, I get to learn about so many more opportunities! It is a MUST.


How does independent film differ from the mainstream?


Independent films have such amazing undiscovered talent! They have people who (most of the time) are not getting paid and are doing it for the LOVE of being creative. Which says soo much! I think you can see some amazing stuff in these films... I have worked as an extra in a few major productions and it takes sooo long just to get one 5 second scene done.  In independent films it takes a lot less time! And because independent films are lower budget, the cast and crew is much smaller and intimate.

What's your favorite quote and why?








“Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma — which is living with the results of other people’s thinking. Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.” - Steve Jobs

This quote sums it all up perfectly. Live your OWN life. Figure out what makes YOU happy. We only have ONE life and it is short. We never know how long we have... Life takes courage - don't waste it with regret. Take a chance!

What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

It really depends! Sometimes you need to remake them so that they are more current and can attract a new audience... but it really comes down to how well they are done.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

Hmm... tough. It depends if you are someone who "reads"... if you are, then most of the time you are going to be somewhat disappointed by the film because you have created your own vision for the film in your own head! But, if you didn't read the book, then you are probably going to have a higher chance of enjoying it... Now, at the same time, the producers have a much higher chance of getting people to go see the film if they read or know about how good the book was!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I am extremely flattered that you found me and asked me for an interview! Thank you to anyone who read this interview! Don't be afraid to go after your dreams!

http://www.laurajpizzuti.com/

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Laura-Pizzuti-Actress/142469462468753?sk=info

Twitter: @laura_pizzuti

Monday, February 6, 2012

Filmmaker Nectarios Leonidas



Nectarios Leonidas was born in Rhodes, Greece and went to the University of Connecticut. He moved to New York City in the mid 90s to pursue filmmaking, where he attended the School of Visual Arts.

He is an award winning filmmaker, who shorts, specs and recent feature film, "Black Site," have appeared in numerous film festivals, throughout the world. In the last five years, he has focused more on editing independent films like “Blueprint,” which was nominated for an IFP Gotham award for best film in 2007 and “Salud,” which won Best Screenplay at the 2009 Beverly Hills Film Festival.

Additionally, he has freelance for different clients, including corporate, advertising and non-profit companies, where he has helped shape and manage their videos and media projects.

What is the current project you are working on?

I’m writing a short romantic script right now and will be shooting it, in early 2012. It’s about a girl that goes on two dates with two guys of different economic status.  I haven’t done anything in the romantic genre, so this is a way of me trying to pushing myself by doing something new and different.

How do you measure success?

This is a hard question to answer.  As I get older, If I’m doing what I love and I’m able to pay my bills and have a roof over my head, I consider this a success.


How do you handle rejection?

You have to understand the basis of rejection, anytime you create something, there’s always going to be somebody that going to judge it. Otherwise, you’re creating things in a vacuum.

It used to bother me a lot, but I have become more relaxed about it as I got older. I know not everything is for everyone. For me, as long as I’m happy with the end product or project, I know I did what I set out to do. It’s great when people come along for the ride but you can’t try to pander to audiences. I try to push myself in all of my projects by doing things different than before


Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

I guess the filmmaking bug bit me at a young age, I was 8, we moved to the states in the late 70s, from Greece.  The first film I saw was a James Bond film on ABC “Live and Let Die,” I was hooked. From that age, my focus was on how the films where made. I would buy behind the scenes magazines, videos on all the great movies of the 80s.

What inspired you to become filmmaker?

I guess it was the allure of the whole experience of watching films.   For me, it’s important to tell my own stories and filmmaking allows me to give my take on what’s going on around us.

What is the best thing about being one?

One of the best things is you get to create your own worlds and have your own rules in these worlds. If you do it right, people will be entertained or see something from another perspective.


What is the worst thing about being one?

Sometimes, you finish something that’s a labor of love and audiences are indifferent or dismissive of it.  That’s where you learn to continue by growing and developing your skills and technics to improve your style.

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

In terms of features, I have worked on four films, in terms of shorts films over 40 and countless miscellaneous video project, like industrials, music videos and news segments for different clients.

Who is your favorite filmmaker?

It varies from year to year, I love the Coen Brothers for doing different things and genres.  I love visual directors like Luc Besson, Alfonso Cuarón, Gaspar Noé and Fernando Meirelles and many more. Like this year one of my favorite movies was “Attack the Block” by Joe Cornish.

How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker?

It has opened my world by allowing me questions things around me. I feel, it has helped me be a better person by listening to others and be more of a student and learning from everything and everyone that I come into contact with.


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

Take a page from NIKE and just do it. Start shooting and editing your own projects. I recently read Malcolm Gladwell’s Outliners and he talks about the 10,000 hours.  Basically, the premise is the more you do something, the better you become.  Like anything else, you have to develop your skills sets and nobody is going to give you the money to do this. You have to do it on your own. With all the technology that we all have access to now, there’s no longer an excuse.  Even with out a computer you can use your cell phone to shoot something and edit it with YouTube’s video editor, by going to an Apple Store or a public library.   One of my favorite viral videos last year, was this teen in NYC who goes to the Apple store in Midtown and lip-sings to popular songs.  He gets over 100,000 hits for his videos.


What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

I like to drink, play tennis, bike ride and travel, but not at the same time because I wouldn’t be here, now.

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

Yes, you name it I did it from, retail to mental hospital support staff.  That’s another great thing about filmmaking, you get to meet some great people and get some ideas by being around others that are different from you and the experiences are invaluable to you as a filmmaker.

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

I’ll just focus on the last few years but I love all types of films.

American Films,   - Drive, - Rise of the Planet of the Apes, - Bridesmaids

Foreign Films,     - Attack the Block, - The Skin I Live In, -Shame

TV – Damages, - Curb your Enthusiasm, - Louie

How would you describe your film education?

Well I went to School of Visual Arts to get my training, and watching different movies from around the world. You see what’s possible and how other filmmakers tell their stories.

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

NYC is great. It’s the independent capital of the world. If you want to try something you have endless resources and crews to work with you.  It’s one of the main reasons, I live here.  If you have an idea, you can get a lot of people to help you make your project possible.

How has social media changed the independent film industry?

It’s breaking all the barriers to the industry.  You can now find your crew, money, equipment, cast and create your film. You can even distribute your finish product and let it find it’s audience quicker. Look at Louis C.K., he did a comedy special and sold it for $5.00 dollars online. Not only did he make money, he was able to keep the cost low because he got rid of the middle man.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

I think it’s great but I feel it might be reaching it’s tipping point.  Like everything, if you’re first to the party you get all the good stuff, eventually when more people come, there’s less cake, cookies, dirks and everything else.

How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

In the last five years, you couldn’t tell the difference.  You had major stars doing so call “indie” films but I think with the recession. We are going back to the true indie scene of the 70’s and 80’s.


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

Wow, this is an interesting question, I guess, since I’m the product of the 70’s and 80’s I would choose one of the pivotal films from that time.  I would have loved to be on the set of “Empire Strikes Back.”  That’s the best of the series and somebody (thinking) the director had George in check. Just because you can do something digital, doesn’t mean you have to.

What's your favorite movie quote and why?

It’s from one of my favorite movies of all time, “Cinema Paradiso.” - “I don't want to hear you talk anymore. I want to hear others talking about you.”


What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

It all depends on the stories and who does them.  Look at “Empire” and “Godfather 2” those are great sequels or Coen Brothers’ “True Grit” and “The Girl with The Dragon Tattoo,” are great remakes.   When you have a great story and great directors, they work. But when you have people who just want to make more money from the same material you get things like “Hangover 2,” and “The Thing.”


What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

I’m in favor of them. Books have been around for centuries and most of these stories can be adapted and updated to today’s society.  Look at “Godfather,”  the book was kind of a main stream popcorn novel, but the movie is one of the best films in the last 100 years.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Just if you’re not following on twitter make sure you add me @flippantfilms.

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Thanks Nectarios for doing the interview. I wish you all the best writing your romantic script. I will be following you on Twitter so I will be up to date on your projects. I'm going to see Attack Of The Block at a local convention. I've heard nothing but good things about it.

Sunday, February 5, 2012

Tamara Lowery Author Of The Waves Of Darkness Series


Tamara Lowery is a former maid and current auto industry worker. She is a graduate of Soddy-Daisy High School and Chattanooga State, where she majored in Journalism. She is a new author. She currently lives in Tennessee with her husband and the Rottentots, her cats.

To learn more about Tamara and her work please visit the following websites:

http://facebook.com/pages/Waves-of-Darkness/209264812443773
http://facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001147240611
http://plurk.com/Viksbelle
http://gypsyshadow.com/TamaraLowery.html#top
http://en.netlog.com/tamaralowery

What is the current project you are working on?

Several, actually. The foremost is the reformatting of the manuscript for Demon Bayou, the second installment in my Waves of Darkness series, which is slated for release from Gypsy Shadow Publishing this October. (My publisher has adopted the Smashwords submission style guidelines to make for easier ebook distribution.) I also have three ongoing manuscripts I'm working on: Hell's Dodo, the fifth book in the Waves of Darkness series; A Dream of Water, a YA fantasy inspired by a dream I had last Spring; and The Adventures of Pigg and Woolfe, a Steampunk serial.

How do you define success?

Perseverance.

How do you handle rejection?

I look for the positive. Why was something rejected, and what can I do to improve it? Also, rejection is sometimes a Godsend. Blood Curse, my debut novel and the first in the Waves of Darkness series, was rejected by several agents and publishers before Gypsy Shadow signed me. Last year I saw a lot of stink being raised about one particular publisher that had rejected the MS over their ill-treatment of several of their authors. I figure I dodged a bullet there.

Did you always want to be a writer?

No. I wanted to be a ballerina when I was five. I HAVE always had an interest in the written word and have been an avid reader from an early age. In Junior High, I wanted to go into Journalism, and even majored in this in college. But, as far as I'm concerned, real journalism is nearly dead. Given the choice of tabloidism or writing honest fiction, I'll go with the fiction. Also, "Real Life" side-tracked my writing aspirations for a couple of decades, but it gave me a better perspective from which to write.

What inspired you to become a writer?

Put simply: reading. When I read, I tend to get totally submersed in a book to the point of having to put it down for a moment and "walk it off" when I get too emotionally wrapped up. My mind was writing fan fiction years before I'd ever even heard the term.

What is the best thing about being one?

World building. I love when I sit down to write, and what appears on the paper surprises me. Often it's as if I am just a channel to scribe out what my characters are telling me or are seeing or experiencing.

What is the worst thing about being one?

Organizing my thoughts. That, and having inspiration hit when it's not convenient to write. (I work a full time job to pay the bills, and write during work breaks.) It can be very frustrating when my mind starts scrolling through scenes faster than I can write it coherently.

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

Around 15 narratives, some of which are only school memories. (The MSs were lost in one of my many moves.) I can't remember how much poetry I wrote back in school. Only one narrative has been published to date. Actually, The Adventures of Pigg and Woolfe is a revamping of an old creative writing exercise from High School. We had to pick a nursery rhyme or fairy tale and put our own twist on it. I had taken The Three Little Pigs and made it into a space opera. Rather than try to repeat that experiment, I decided to take the two main characters, Clyde Pigg and Draeger Woolfe, and adapt them to a Steampunk setting.

Who is your favorite author?

I have to pick ONE? Tolkien, Douglas Adams, Anne McCaffrey, Sherrilyn Kenyon, Janet Evanovich, Laurell K. Hamilton, Jean Auel, Michael Gear & Kathleen O'Neal Gear, Elizabeth Peters, Elizabeth Ann Scarborough, Michael Romkey...shall I go on?

How has your life changed since you became writer?

Just in the last year I've entered a world I'd never dreamed I would. Just the wonder of feeling accepted into a community I used to only observe from the outside as a fan is WONDERFUL. It also has given me the access to lessons others have learned the hard way.

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

Write what you like to read. Practice, practice, practice. DO NOT GIVE UP YOUR DREAM...EVER. I went through four years of rejections before finding a publisher. There are others who went through many more years than that. Watch your grammar. If you can find a used grammar textbook at a school or used bookstore, BUY IT. Do NOT rely solely on spellcheck programs. THEN and THAN are NOT INTERCHANGABLE! Make sure your manuscript is as clean and professional looking as possible before submitting it to a publisher. That is one of my biggest pet peeves and is a sure way to mark a writer as an amateur. Your editor will thank you. A sloppy MS is guaranteed rejection. If you aren't sure about a passage, read it aloud, or better, let someone else read it aloud, and see if it makes sense. Do not be afraid to rewrite. NEVER think that what you wrote is perfect; there is always room for improvement. Be prepared for a lot of hard work for very little monetary return. Authors who become multi-millionaires are the exception to the rule, not the norm. If you have a day job, for God's sake, DON'T QUIT! Most of the other authors I know can't afford health insurance, and some of them are big names in their genres. Lastly, build an online presence. Publishers do look at your "platform" of social networks. They are more likely to sign a new author who already has a large potential reader base. Publishing is a business. They don't publish books just out of the kindness of their heart; they expect to make money. They aren't going to invest a lot in something they don't think will give them good returns. Keep in mind, however, that self-publishing has become a very viable options for those who don't fit the current "market" model. If you decide to go this route, however, I would suggest finding a reliable and reasonably priced freelance editor: see comments about sloppy manuscripts.

What do you like to do besides writing?

Draw, sing, read, and once in a while piddle with crafts as the mood hits and time allows.

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

Yes. I have worked retail. I was a maid for seven years. I've worked food service. Currently, and probably until I retire, I build Volkswagens, working in the Body Weld shop. Specifically, I'm part of the team that builds the hoods, fenders and trunk lids for the Passat.

How would you describe your education?

Worth it. I probably would have been a professional student, if I could have afforded it. As it was, I only achieved an Associates of Arts in Journalism back in 1988.

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

To Kill a Mockingbird. (The movie was great, the book was even better.) A guilty pleasure used to be late 70s-early 80s barbarian flicks, swords and sorcery stuff. They were so cheesy. My favorite foreign film would be Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. Besides being fantastic eye candy, it is a very good story with well developed characters. I'm also a Star Wars fan, although Episodes 1-3 were high on effects and low on story, kind of like a huge, beautiful wedding cake that turns out to be all icing with a stale mini bran muffin at the core. As for TV: both seasons of HBO's Rome, True Blood, Boardwalk Empire, Game of Thrones, American Idol (sometimes I think the judges are drinking the blue toilet water in those cups based on some of their comments), and Deadliest Catch. I still miss Capt. Phil Harris.

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

I'm not really sure. I haven't had the time to look into local writing groups or workshops.


How has social media changed the publishing industry?

It has put a lot more of the burden of promotions on the author, but it has also opened the industry wide to independant publishing houses and self-publishing.

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

There was an old, ragged Christmas carol songbook that my grandmother had. I wouldn't have to have a first edition, but I'd love to find a copy. It had two variations of the carol The Holly and the Ivy, one with the traditional English tune you always hear and one with a traditional French tune I have NEVER heard anyone record. Personally, I always thought the French tune was prettier.

What's your favorite movie quote and why?

I don't really have a favorite.


What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

I judge them on an individual basis. Some are good, some should never have been done. Night of the Hunter, for instance, should not have been remade. Seeing the color remake lost a lot of the atmosphere and charm of the original. The original was made in black and white for a reason. Color technology had been available to the studios for decades when it was shot.


What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

Depends on the screen writer, casting, and director. However, if a movie captures someone's attention enough to make them look for the book, then it is definitely a good thing. Which reminds me, I need to add The Color Purple to my to-buy book list.


Is there anything else you would like to add?

Yes, I'm still a bit giddy about my debut novel, Blood Curse, ranking #7 on this years Preditors and Editors Readers' Poll in the horror category. I was surprised to have been nominated, but to finish in the top ten was fantastic!

Blood Curse is the first book in the Waves of Darkness series, which follows the adventures and trials of Viktor Brandewyne, a bloodthirsty pirate in the truest sense. He draws the ire of a very powerful witch after killing one of her favorites in a dispute over a tavern wench. She curses him to become a living vampire: he has all the powers of a traditional vampire, but is unaffected by sunlight or holy items. Given his ruthless nature, one would think this was more a blessing than a curse, but there's a catch. The curse will eventually destroy him, starving him to death regardless of how much he feeds and robbing him of all self-control until there is nothing but his Hunger. To avoid this fate, he has to find the seven Sisters of Power, perform tasks for them in exchange for a portion of their magic, and bring it back to Mother Celie, the old witch (and eighth Sister) who raised him from an orphan, to free him from the curse. He is aided in his quest by Hezekiah Grimm, aka The Grimm Reaper, his first mate, Belladonna, a man-eating siren, and Lazarus, a shape-shifting creature that is sometimes a large black cat and sometimes a raven.

Each book in the series deals with a separate Sister. The Sisters will not be easy to find, nor will they be easy to please.

Blood Curse is available as an ebook from http://gypsyshadow.com/TamaraLowery.html#BloodCurse as well as from Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Smashwords, Kobo, Omnilit/AllRomance, and other ebook outlets. I have posted a book trailer for Blood Curse on Youtube at http://youtu.be/k67QHiYAEA



Book 2 in the series, Demon Bayou, will be available from Gypsy Shadow this October.  Viktor's search for the second Sister of Power takes him to the bayou country near New Orleans. He encounters vampires not made by him for the first time. The bayous and swamps hold their own danger, as well. An ancient demon guards the way to the Sister. Worse, Belladonna starts dying in the black waters of the bayous. Viktor must choose: continue on or return the siren to the sea. Without magic from all the Sisters, he cannot break the curse. Without Belladonna, he will never find all the Sisters.

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Thanks so much for doing the interview Tamara.   I wish you the best with your projects.   Also, I didn't know there was another variation of "The Holly and the Ivy".

Saturday, February 4, 2012

Actor Larry Laverty


Larry Laverty is an actor living in Oakland, California. Larry is known for the wide range of characters he plays and the unique way he brings his characters to life. He's appeared in over 100 films and over a dozen television shows. Most notably, he's appeared in John Frankenheimer's 'The Fourth War,' playing opposite Harry Dean Stanton, Gus Van Sant's 'Elephant,' 'The Hamiltons,' 'The Sanguinarian,' and 'Dead Tone,' playing opposite Rutger Hauer. His television appearances include 'Judging Amy,' 'The Practice,' 'Breaking Vegas,' 'The Tonight Show,' 'The Dating Game,' and numerous soaps including 'All My Children,' and 'Days of Our Lives.' Larry started performing professionally on stage at Oakland's Woodminster Theater playing in a number of Shakespeare's plays and numerous Broadway musicals. He prepared for his acting career by studying with The American Conservatory Theater, the Jean Shelton Actors Lab, The Groundlings, and Second City among others. He holds two college degrees, one in Business Administration, one in Political Science. Competitive in sports all his life, he ran on the track team at Oakland's Skyline High School, and spent 11 years competing in speedskating and bicycle racing. Larry was born in Berkeley, California and grew up in nearby Oakland.

What is the current project you are working on?

Early in my career, I had the great good fortune of working on two films with Irish filmmaker Dermot Tynan who was living temporarily in California at the time. We've kept in touch for the twenty years since that time and finally, we get to work together again, this time in Ireland. Dermot is feverishly writing away and I'm anxious to get a look at the script very soon. He knows how much I enjoy playing oddball characters and he has a dandy in mind this time around. The film will be titled 'Green Star Liner.' We have no dates set yet but it's not too far off, especially since we've both been waiting for twenty years so far.

What is it like working with Gus Van Sant and Rutger Hauer?

I had just taken a leave of absence from Hollywood to focus on independent films all over the country. My agent in Portland, Oregon called to say she had an audition for me for a film called 'Elephant,' to be directed by Oregon resident Gus Van Sant. I went and later worked a week on the film. The timing was good as I'd recently spent a number of years studying Improv which was a good thing as Gus encouraged us to flesh out our characters from the script in our own ways. It was such a pleasure being given free reign by a director of Gus' stature. He's such a calm spirit and very supportive. A few months later, I visited Gus in his downtown Portland office where he was cutting 'Elephant' and I look forward to the day we work together again.

Rutger Hauer is yet another story. I'd grown up watching 'Blade Runner' and a couple of other Rutger Hauer films so I was well aware of his legendary status. Funny thing though, the first day I reported for work, I couldn't find anybody to check in with except a hand full of the salty drivers who move the equipment trucks around. I hung out with them for a few minutes and then noticed that one of them looked familiar. It was Rutger, just hanging out with the Teamsters like I was. Later, on the set, he held court as most veteran celebrities seem to do, fielding a stream of autograph seekers and recalling stories from various well-known films he'd worked.

Did you always want to be an actor?

That's funny! It never dawned on me to even try acting until I was 24 years old and took an acting class on a whim during my last year of college. It just never crossed my mind and I actually thought the whole acting thing was strange. I'd been on a couple of children's television shows when I was a kid and had sung in church choirs all my life but I was far more interested in sports and doing things outdoors. What worked for me was that acting allowed me to explore all sorts of things that people do in life, a pattern that I'd gotten into as I worked a wide variety of jobs to pay my way through college. Never say never, it is said. Now I've been acting professionally for over 20 years, exploring all sorts of careers and many aspects of humanity, and I really can't imagine myself doing anything else.

What is the best thing about being an actor?

I love the art in it all. I love creating these characters I play. I love taking a script, chewing on it, and bringing the images on a page to life. And I get to travel to all corners of town, to every corner of the United States and Canada and later this year to Ireland to do it. I've always fed on challenges in life and it took a good ten years of performing before I actually felt like I'd gotten fully in touch with my imagination and felt justified in calling myself an artist, an actor. Ten years! Along the way, I've worked with lots of wonderful people and animals and I love the collaboration that goes on in making a movie. It's really inspiring when a group of talented people come together to make something. But there are more challenges I'm facing in the works, and that's OK, like re-establishing myself in Hollywood. I trained in Business and worked in business before becoming an actor so my mind's suited to the business side of acting too and its going to take every ounce of what I've got to get back to where I was in Hollywood before I left to focus on indie films.

What is the estimated number of projects you've worked on?

From the early days I started doing this professionally, I became aware that some actors have careers that amount to only a few dozen films or select Tv shows. And then there are others who like to be working all the time and end up working in over one hundred or even two hundred films. I've now worked in over one hundred films and over a dozen television shows and I feel like I'm just getting started. When I was in L.A. the first time, I focused on television, but once I left the establishment to work

only indie films, I had to find work in as many as I could to make it pay financially.

There were times where I was preparing three or four films at the same time. It was crazy-making. I'd spend an hour or two a day prepping one character, take a break, and then go to work prepping the next character and so on. I loved it, I was doing what I loved to do and doing it all the time. But then the economy turned a few years ago and investors backed out of independent films in large numbers. So I'm working in fewer films these days and am aiming to supplement the film work with a few television roles.

How has your life changed since becoming an actor?

When I was working my way through college, I really had no firm idea what I was going to do for a career. At first, I thought I'd work my way up through a corporation like so many other folks. Then, after getting a good taste of the corporate world, I thought I might work in the public sector, trying to positively affect policy toward our environment and animal life. After a thorough search, I eventually drifted into the arts and found acting. I do my best whenever I can to support others who care about our environment and animals but I became consumed by the challenge of being an artist, both technically and financially. About five years into it, I felt I'd never be able to work in an office again. At ten years into it, and having fought hard for legitimacy, I knew there was no turning back. Having experienced all that I have and experienced it so fully, I know that acting has made me a much more aware and sensitive person. Sometimes the pain in life finds its way to my core a little more readily than I'd like.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

I love exploring places with friends. One of my favorite past times is going for a walk in a park, a park like Yosemite, Yellowstone, along the beach, through the forest, with someone I feel close to. I love sharing the sights and sounds of our world with other people. And in the same vane, I do what I can to make our world a little better place. I pick up litter, I help anybody who needs help, and I support those who are doing good deeds also. I'll always love being out on the road on two wheels, on a motorcycle or on a bicycle. And I love hanging out at coffee shops, catching up with old friends.

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

Let's see. I've delivered newspapers, maintained a botanical garden, checked groceries, sold keg beer, worked for a moving company, worked in a window factory, milked cows, worked in a warehouse, driven a forklift, been a telephone operator, a bank teller, stocked women's shoes, and mowed people's lawns. Most of these jobs involved a fair amount of sweat and I have to say that I'm grateful that I don't have to sweat very often as an actor.

How would you describe your film education?

There was that first acting class, during the time I was finishing up my second degree. The two instructors were veterans of New York and thought I had something special. To them, I'm forever grateful. Their comments and support planted a seed that really didn't sprout until several years later. After doing a few plays, I figured I'd better get to work and figure out what acting was really all about so for the next ten years, I was in and out of scene study classes, university classes, and classes about Improv. Then I ran across an interview of Anthony Hopkins in which he described the way he went about what he does and the lights bulb went on for me, there were fireworks. Between having reconnected to my imagination through Improv and realizing that absorbing the dialog of a script could be effortless, it all came together. At the same time, I'd been supplementing my acting income by working low-level crew positions on big-budget films with Academy-Award winning directors and cinematographers. From the hundreds of days on set with those folks, I got a feel for the process of making movies and soon felt just as much at home on a set as anywhere else in the world.

Furthermore...

Acting is just plain great fun, most all of the time. How wonderful to be paid for doing something that you'd almost be willing to do for free! But there's a catch. For me anyway. I'm well aware of lots of nasty things going on in the world and they bother me every day of my life. The pain that some human folk cause to animals. The way some human folk have no respect for the natural world, for their communities, for other folk. I've seen and experienced more than my share of terrible things and I imagine I'll see a bunch more while I'm here. So as a carefree actor, I'm smiling at the pain, laughing in the rain, and keepin' on smilin.'

Two films of mine will be released this year, 2012, 'Treasure State", a wonderful family film, and 'Sisterhood of Death,' an outrageous comedy, despite its title.

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Thanks for doing the interview Larry. Below are some stills Larry sent me from family film "The Wylds" he  stars in:

[slideshow]

Monday, January 30, 2012

Filmmaker Rick Greenwood



Richard (Rick) Greenwood Jr is a writer/director/producer/cinematographer who  earned his MFA degree in filmmaking from the New York Film Academy in Los Angeles CA in December 2010.  Rick was born and raised in upstate New York and came from a hard working background which not only breeds a great work ethic and determination in him and his  work, but the appreciation and value in all he sought s after and obtains.  He received his BFA in Fine Art from the University at Albany in 2008 before moving to Los Angeles in 2009 to attend grad school and begin his life in filmmaking.

With great visual esthetics, strong story telling and deep characters grounded in everyday hardships, Rickʼs films explore the dark places of the mind and society but through strong characters hope is still found in tragedy and loss.

Hinnon Valley is Rickʼs breakout film which has earned “official selection” at over a  dozen festivals and has won four awards to date. Char Hardin film reviewer for Horrorphilia.com gave the film a 5 out of 5 and listed it as one of the top 15 best short  horror films of 2011, while Gruesome Hertzogg gave it a 9 out of 10. Hinnon Valley was also featured before Scream 4 on itʼs opening weekend in a private theater in upstate New York. With the festival buzz and the amazing feedback before Scream 4 it looks  like the feature version of Hinnon Valley may be possible in the near future. Steps have been made to make Hinnon Valley available to the public for rent and sale by mid year 2012.

“Film is a medium which encompasses every aspect of art, from the visuals and dialogue to the sounds and music it IS a world of it’s own. Having the power to bring someone into a world you create and have them invest their heart and soul into it, living and breathing the characters emotions and situations is the most amazing feeling in the world.”

Richard (RICK) Greenwood Jr

nino2169@aol.com

518-322-9449

www.imdb.com/name/nm4091844

What is the current project you are working on?

In January I will be the Cinematographer for a low budget indie horror feature called “The Rental”. It will be shot in LA over the corse of three weeks. I am really excited to get to camera for my first feature. I also have two Feature scripts that I am pitching right now. The first is a dark noir conspiracy thriller called “Origin”. That one is my baby, but also a very high budget project. The second is a slasher/horror feature tentatively named “The Forgotten”. This script I wrote as lower budgeted project, which is something I am hoping to secure the funding for a go to camera on in the spring. I will direct, write and produce it.

How do you handle rejection?

How do I handle rejection?-haha Well, in this business you have to get used to it really fast. Projects will arise and struggle, then begin to look great, then disappear quicker than the first twinkle of the inception of the idea itself. You canʼt let it get you down, you have to just keep pushing and be resilient-only the strong will survive. Itʼs not always about talent itʼs perseverance, passion and drive that makes the difference in the end...and of course if you have the talent to back it up in the end, then your set.

What does success mean to you?

Finding something in life that will not only support you but inspire and motivate you. Success to me is just being happy and comfortable with your life, job and the people you chose to surround yourself with.

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

Actually if you asked me when I was younger what I was going to be when I grew up, I would have said a Rock Star. Iʼve always been drawn to and very good at anything in the arts, drawing, painting, sculpting, writing (poetry, songs and stories),music and of course a love for film. So I guess it just all made sense for me to go into filmmaking, because film is the culmination of all art forms from the writing to sound/music to the visuals, it is the ultimate work of art. Something that is so powerful people can lose themselves in so deeply emotionally, energetically and passionately. It is such an amazing feeling when you can get someone to invest and lose themselves in the world and characters you create.

 What inspired you to become filmmaker?

Itʼs sad, but the catalyst for my move into film was the passing of my father in 2005. My father and I were very much alike, very hard workers, stubborn and willing to sacrifice to get things done. However that sacrifice becomes a downward spiral because you keep putting the things off for yourself to fill the immediate needs of the moment, none of which help put you on the path of your dreams or passions. He used to give me crap all the time to do something with my life and my talents, but I never really listened, in the end he only wanted what was best for me and to not waste myself like he did. The defining message to me was when he died, he died of a heart attack at work, not with his family, not having fun or riding his Harley, but at work- I too was on the fast track of doing the same thing. I was a workaholic, even more so than him and I was wasting my life away. It unfortunately took such a terrible thing to happen for me to finally wake up and do something about my life. So I went back to school and received my BFA in Fine Art and planned on continuing to get my Masters in art as well, that is until I got my hands on a camera some editing software and away I went. I took to it like wildfire and everyone told me this is what I need to do, so I did.  Despite a laundry list of problems I ventured out to LA and went to Grad school at The New York Film Academy at Universal Studios. Things in my personal life were about to get much worse, worse than I could ever possibly imagine, but I loved the school and what I was doing. The average person probably would have given up right at the start, but I am definitely not one to quit. I lost everything, but I persevered and am now at a new beginning in my life. Things are still very uncertain, but at least I am still chasing my dreams.

What is the best thing about being one?

The best thing is that I get to do what I love to do. I mean itʼs extremely challenging, but nothing else can equal the rewards of seeing your work up on the big screen and have people really enjoy it. I am honored that I have had the opportunity to work with and meet some great and talented people, people I hope to continue growing and working with for years to come-and the list grows with every production.

What is the worst thing about being one?

The worst thing would have to be the money. Unless your independently wealthy or have a financial backer of your own, youʼre out there fighting and clawing to get someone to believe in your work, your project and most importantly you. It is very trying and I see how people could take the rejection personally, but you can never give up.
What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?

Wow, including school Iʼd say probably around 50 or so in all different positions- everything from directing to grip, gaffing, acting, AD, producing etc...Iʼve done it all.
Is there a sequel planned for "Hinnon Valley"?

Since Hinnon valley is a short Iʼve never planned any sort of sequel to it, however I would like to do a feature version of it hopefully in the near future with Alexis Zibolis returning as the lead character.

Who is your favorite filmmaker?

I donʼt have a single favorite filmmaker but I like Martin Scorsese, Stanley Kubrick, Alex Proyas, Peter Jackson, Mel Gibson, Wes Craven, Clive Barker, Frank Capra, Orson Wells, Guillermo del Toro, Quentin Tarantino and many many more.

How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker?

The last couple years have been really tough. I have given up a lot for this dream and I am hoping my gamble pays off. I can honestly say though, that for the first time in my life I am doing something that I truly enjoy and it makes me happy to do it.

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

Do it because you love it, not because you want to be rich and famous. It is a very tough industry where the majority unfortunately fail. Talent will only get you so far in this carnival of favorites, friends and favors-hard work, a relentless drive and passion will make the difference in the end. Surround yourself with great people who are as driven and passionate as you and make it happen, donʼt wait for someone to do it for you.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

I love watching and playing Hockey and Football. I also enjoy playing music, drawing/painting, watching movies and am a car fanatic.

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

I have had a ton of jobs. I am a workaholic, so I buried myself in work at a multitude of different jobs. Let me see, I started as a paper boy, then had my own landscaping business, did carpentry and finishing work with my father, auto mechanics, kennel manager and vet assistant, cook, server, bartender, yogurt server, stock boy at a grocery store, free lance art, commercial cleaner, maintenance and a bunch of other things Iʼm probably forgetting. Told you Iʼve done a lot...keeps me well-rounded haha.
 What are some of your favorite American films? Foreign films? Television shows?

Some of my favorite films are Braveheart, Forest Gump, Lord of The Rings (all three), Exorcist, The Shining, Nightmare on Elm Street(original), The Crow, Seven, Double Indemnity and so many more. Foreign films, I loved The Artist, Irreversible, The Orphanage, I Saw The Devil and a lot of the J-hor stuff. I donʼt watch much T.V. but shows I liked were The X Files, that 70ʼs Show and Quantum Leap.

How would you describe your film education?

I earned my Masters degree from the New York Film Academy at Universal Studios in Los Angeles CA. I am truly happy and proud of my experience there. They have a great all inclusive hands on program that teaches you so much at such a quick pace-it is truly a trail by fire. The added benefit of their program is that not only do you learn directing, but ever aspect of filmmaking, from producing to grip work. Of course like any program you get out of it what you put into it, but I know for me I can walk onto any film set and do any position they need me to do, makes me much more employable when the directing gigs arenʼt there.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

Anything it takes to get it done! If everyone is in and excited about a project I am all for it, when power struggles and egos get in the way then itʼs not worth it. Indie Go-Go and Kickstarter have allowed and supported many people who otherwise may have never had a chance to get their work realized, for that I think itʼs a great thing.

 How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

Well unfortunately due to the economy and tight fisted executives everywhere I think the mainstream film industry is suffering in its creativity and willingness to try something new. Studios want a guarantee that they are not only going to make back their money, but also make a large profit from their investments. Thatʼs why they keep banking their money into remakes and book adaptations, stuff that already has a branding or label to it. Even though I love the Lord of The Ring movies they are a prime example of taking something that already has a huge following and fan base from the books and translating it to the big screen. No matter what, the film will get a huge draw because it already has a name. Adversely- independent films have much more freedom, but they too still want to invest in projects that have a greater potential upside, because those who have money want to keep it. The strength of independent films are the people that make them. It is a very devout talented hard working group that can make things happen out of nothing. You have to pull favors and utilize your assets to make it happen, but in the end you still unfortunately need money.

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

Never really thought about that before, but I guess I would say “ Touch of Evil”  by Orson Wells. I would have loved to see that amazing opening shot come together and see a master filmmaker at work.

What's your favorite movie quote and why?

Off the top of my head...”victims arenʼt we all”...”look what youʼve done to my sheets” (The Crow), “I have exorcized the demon!” (Ace Ventura) or “I hate to see you go, but love to watch you leave” (Face Off). When you get my brother and I together all we do is quote movies, so I could probably go on all day-haha. These are the first few I thought of, The Crow because I love that movie and could probably quote the entire film, Ace Ventura cause itʼs hysterical and I use it all the time, Face Off just cause itʼs a great saying...and Iʼm an ass man lol.

Do you believe in life on other planets?

I think youʼd have to be ignorant not to think there is life outside of the planet Earth. We are such a small speck in the large picture, I think itʼs complete arrogance to think we are the only ones.
 What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

Like I brought up with mainstream filmmaking, it is now just a part of the world. On the whole, I am against remakes. Most remakes in my opinion lose the essence of the originals as it tries to take something that was made for a different audience and time and twist, mash and distort it to hopefully appeal to a whole new audience-always dilutes it(Nightmare on Elm Street/Red Dawn/Arthur/Conan the Barbarian-horrible...Girl With The Dragon Tatoo/Dawn of The Dead-good). Sequels can be cool and fun especially  when its continuing a film and/or character in more journeys, but unfortunately they never seem to know when enough is enough. Anyone up for Rocky 87?
What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

Book to move adaptations are tough, you will never truly satisfy all parties. Books are a great resource with amazing stories and characters and often have the potential of making great movies, however you can never fit everything from a book into a movie. So the challenge comes to the filmmakers, especially the writers and directors. They have to pull the necessities of the story out and decide what to leave behind-which will always disappoint a true fan of the book. In my opinion directors such as Kubrick with the Shining and Jackson with TLOR and The Lovely Bones did an amazing job of finding the core and heart of the stories and making amazing movies out of them. Some of the best and some of the worst movies have been adapted from books, I guess itʼs just a matter of who the filmmakers are.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I would like to thank you John for showing an interest in me and my work and for giving me this great opportunity. I hope to have more work to talk to you in the very near future about :) and thanks for everyone who reads this and finds something in it that either intrigues, entertains or enrages you-lol.

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Thank you for doing the interview Rick.   I'm a fan of you and your work. I enjoyed "Hinnon Valley" very much. Keep me posted regarding  HV as a feature film and your other projects. Also let me know when the film  “The Rental” will be available to rent ;)

Sunday, January 22, 2012

Filmmaker Jo Custer

[caption id="attachment_2713" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Jo Custer (right) guest judging the Gulf South Funniest Comedian semi-finals hosted by Johnny Rock with Vince Vance and Terry Jurgelsky."][/caption]

Born in Maine and raised primarily in northwestern Pennsylvania, Jo is currently a New Orleans writer/director/producer, cab driver, photog and occasional journalist and actress. At six she entered a Sunday School essay contest and won: first in her church, then in the region, then in the state. Studying creative writing intensively for a few years at Penn State before ultimately switching to and earning a degree in journalism, she expanded from poetry, short fiction and play writing into film criticism, editing, news reporting and writing for the screen.

Last summer, Jo strung a story for the short-lived Louisiana Entertainment Reporter. She was also hired to adapt fiction for the screen under the auspices of mixer publishing and solicited to write film features for Paste Magazine, but both pursuits have so far had to cede way to her ability to keep herself afloat financially and growing as a filmmaker. Since ’09, she has been whittling away at a short story collection under the pseudonym Jules Alder — and various short films under her more prosaic name, since ’02. Last year, The History Press published her personal essay, Chopsticks, in the journal collection Western Pennsylvania Reflections: Stories from the Alleghenies to Lake Erie.

This year finds Jo’s short film HOTCAKES, an urban Western shot last November, in post-production. The rough cut will be under twenty minutes and test screened in New Orleans and on her Unclear Pictures YouTube channel on January 28.

HOTCAKES represents the first in a series of short film challenges Jo has set herself en route to readying herself to make a first feature film. The second in the Short Stack Series is currently in treatment form and will be produced mid-May or in late September, the determining factor being the success of the HOTCAKES Kickstarter campaign.

What is the current project you are working on?

We're in post-production and pre-marketing, in the rough cut/test  screening/crowdfunding stage, of HOTCAKES, which I originally wrote as a 5 page urban  Western. I liked the concept and characters so much, I expanded it into 17 pages and decided to direct and produce it myself with my editor as co-producer. I had started to shop the 5 pager around New Orleans, then realized there were no producers available who really got or connected with the story. My writing's too subtle for many, producers and actors alike, which is rough because I agree with Gary Oldman, et al, that acting is not a cerebral process; it's an emotional process. But a highly cerebral and intuitive process needs to precede the emotional, something that the uber-talented Gary Oldman maybe takes for granted.

People familiar with Owen Wister's classic Western novel The Virginian will have a clue as to what kind of protagonist HOTCAKES features. Those who aren't should picture a gentleman ranch hand, a real cowboy, surrounded by cowboys and wannabes at a poker table after one of them calls him a son of a bitch. The gentleman cowboy, the Virginian, lays his gun on the table as though discarding it, as though to say he doesn't even need it, and tells the loudmouth wannabe to smile when he says that. Marty, our Virginian, took a lot of layers from there, but that was the kernel of his character. And Burton Tedesco's tough but graceful demeanor pulls it off.

I knew I wasn't ready to make a feature, so I needed to start making longer films with embedded challenges, like making a seated dialogue scene watchable -- something I failed at in my last film, TOLL ROAD -- and finding the kind of actors and department heads who could interpret the characters and the setting as a character. My experience with my HOTCAKES lead was almost spiritual, Burton connected with the character so deeply. Our one on one communication really sustained me throughout the shoot. There were even a couple of times he saved me from making stupid mistakes while in a sleep deprivation coma of sorts. An actor like that is worth his weight in gold, if you're the kind of person who places value on something pulled out of the earth that you can't eat.

The same can be said of our production designer, Cassie Giveans. She's young, just old enough to drink legally, and this was only her second time helming an art department; but she's smart, strong, capable, multi-talented, very handy with the entire range of power tools, most of which I can't even name, and cute as a button. She was my right arm, really. At some point during the shoot, I decided to stop making or taking phone calls. I stopped wearing my producer's hat while on set trying to direct and pretty much just made Cassie my personal assistant. She took it all in stride and we got through the shoot relatively unscathed. This was my first budgeted film and Cassie made it relatively painless in terms of upfront production costs also, not spending a few hundred of the $1200 I allotted for set design. Since we shot all 17 pages in one location, we had to really make it count. We didn't have total control. We had a few different set configurations because of the narrowness of the gallery in which we were shooting. But she made it work, even staying up on set nights to change the scenery despite having classes and two jobs.

And I'm pleased that we're over halfway funded on Kickstarter before we've even test screened the film or released a trailer. It's still a long haul to $2500 by February 3, but I have some hope, which is nice.

Did you always want to be a writer?

The George Carlin answer is: "Well, not in the womb, but right after that." The serious answer is: I couldn't stop if I tried and I know deep down that writing and directing are my universal calling. That's when I'm fully myself.

What inspired you to become writer?

Overcoming illiteracy. I didn't learn to read by the first grade with the other girls and boys. I was diagnosed with a learning disability and it was suggested that I was, to use the language of the day, mentally retarded.

People who know me think that's hilarious in its discrepancy. I'm not sure I agree.

One teacher used to rip up my illegible homework in front of the class. My mother, who has my undying devotion for this, told the public school officials to go fuck themselves and co-founded a private school across the street at a church. I can't say with complete certainty that my staunchly anti-establishment mother didn't become a Christian just for me. We're still sort of marveling at how that all went down. Nixon didn't tear gas my mum for praying.

But the long and short of it is, Mom got me these books on tape and I sat and listened to them for about six weeks, and that was pretty much how I learned to read, after I learned the alphabet and phonetics within a few weeks or so at the new private school. Appears I sleepwalked through that part of kindergarten, too.

Turned out I had mild dyslexia, which was correctable with the audio books and some simple tracing exercises.

Then one day we had a "Sunday school is..." essay contest and I just knew I was meant to be a writer. Winning reinforced that belief. It won in the church, then the region, then the state. Then it went to nationals and was never heard from again, but it was an interesting ride while it lasted.

Something just clicked. This was what I was supposed to do.

What is the best thing about being one?

The worldview you get from it, I think, is like no other. It can be kind of lonely, but in that loneliness, you find a confidence; you learn that the only thing that matters is what we do and say. That's actually a pretty easy place to be coming from. And then you spend all your downtime, on the receiving end, listening to what others do and say. That's an extremely pleasing and peaceful form of existence, to me, constantly processing life as it happens.

What is the worst thing about being one?

It's amazing how many people think I'm stupid or insignificant because I'm motivated far, far more by beauty and a sense of order than money. My running joke is that God herself couldn't get me a date. Only, it's not a joke.

Also, I get tired of non-writers pestering me with ideas. At this point, I've been writing for 30 years. That's 30 plus years' worth of ideas I already don't have time enough in the day to write and they're what inspire me most. Other people's ideas typically don't inspire me. It's so rare that I hear a good one and even when I do, it's just like, Well if you love the idea so much, why don't you go write it yourself? I never really know what non-writers want from me.

I'm not going to write your book or screenplay for you. There are other people who do that. Find them instead. I'm not into bloodless writing. That's not why I put myself through this torture. And if I were, I'd write for television.

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

Film? I think around ten with a direct role -- writer/director/producer or writer/AD. Add another ten for crew, I think. But most of this has been really small, often disorganized stuff -- a lot of student work -- and a lot of it in the last year and a half. I'm an old writer, perhaps, but I'm a young director. Progress in that arena has really only started happening lately. That's why I moved to New Orleans, in fact. Making films in Pittsburgh was too damn hard.

Who is is your favorite writer?

My favorites tend to vary with my mood. In the last year, the mood's included Miranda July, Guy de Maupassant and Martin Amis, three very different writers. On days when I'm feeling glib, I say Salman Rushdie. I adore Rushdie and I've read a lot of his nonfiction, but not a lick of fiction, not yet. Any day now.

How has your life changed since you became a writer?

I think I can honestly say that it has saved my life in a way, though I don't know that I could honestly say how. I'm very sensitive, that's a certainty. Writing -- and facing criticism and failure as a writer -- has helped me develop a thicker skin in some ways while retaining all of the sensitivity that makes me who I am when I'm at my best. At least, that's the hope. It's a constant sifting, deciding what emotions you're going to let yourself be vulnerable to and for what reason. I'm at my best when I'm hip deep in a story with no time to look backward, only forward.

And maybe it's in part a function of the learning disability I was diagnosed with as a kid, but I am constantly trying to make sense of the world. Constantly. And it often just doesn't make sense. So if you want to get on my bad side or be ignored, just throw some confusion my way. I won't come calling, that's for damn sure. I've got work to do.

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

Don't believe anything that will force you to make a major life decision without checking with your inner child first.

What do you like to do besides writing?

If I had my druthers, I'd be horseback riding and picnicking with someone I love. Also, I love swimming. Anywhere but still water. I'm not an attention whore, which makes me question whether I should be in independent filmmaking sometimes. I like to be alone. I enjoy privacy and safeguard it, probably a little too much. But I'm okay with that.

Now that I have two dogs to take care of (not mine, but I love them), I've returned to long walks too. I love to just go outside and commune with nature, wherever I am. Places have such histories. You can feel them palpably.

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

Well, writing came first for me, obviously. Although my grandmother did put a camera in my hand when I was five and declared that I had "the eye" after she developed the prints. But that really came from her. I love photography, but it's not my first love. I tried to publish when I was nine. I sent a limerick to Cricket magazine: Rejected. I think that was my first clue that my calling is a real job and hard. I didn't try to submit anything again until I was a sophomore in college. Sent a story to The New Yorker: Rejected. You learn to scale back your ambitions rather than try and be something you're not. Despite over a hundred odd jobs, I've never been anything less than a writer.

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

I'm pretty much addicted to all things Pedro Almodovar, Sam Ball, and Czech New Wave. Also, The Wire completely reset my rating system. Now, if it's not True Blood, I don't even want to watch TV. Which is good, I guess. Frees up time, especially since I don't get HBO. Or, at least I don't think I have cable. I moved and didn't even bother to check, which should tell you something. [Update: Turns out, I get HBO. And Game of Thrones.]

How would you describe your film education?

Ongoing. All the classroom work was really just a springboard into handling equipment and networking with the film community. It's my communications degree and the time I spent simply blogging about film that's keeping me on a clear course I can plot strategically, not to mention that private school my mother co-founded. You set your own pace and corrected your own work against a scoring key and really, in many ways, were self-taught and self-disciplined. I definitely think a good independent director is a good self-teacher. Like with anything you want to improve at, you set your challenges and rise to meet them. If I succeed, I learn to set greater challenges. If I fail, I gain confidence from correctly identifying my weaknesses and blind spots and apply more energy in that direction.

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

One of the things I love about NOLA is that there isn't really a "scene," per se. There are students who all pretty much run together and there are these meetup groups that try to get a sense of community and fresh-flowing blood, but this town attracts so many individuals and a lot of actors, especially, who come for all the films that are just now starting to hire more principal roles outside of L.A. I think a good way to put it might be that in other cities, you might feel like an outsider looking in at first as a filmmaker. But in NOLA, that's sort of the realm of the old money, and they aren't in film. The rest of us are all pretty much equals, even if competitive cliques still do exist.

That said, this isn't much of an online town. Most people in film here are on Facebook, but not so much on Twitter or anything else. If you see that as an unforgivable negative, then I'll say this to you about NOLA: If you're an artist and you haven't at least visited here, your education's incomplete on several levels.

How has social media changed the independent industry?

I think that question would better be answered by Henry Jenkins and Ed Burns. They should get together and write a new book. I'd read that book, as long as it contained hard data and analysis and wasn't padded with fluff.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

I've seen the pie chart depicting the divisions of wealth in this country, so I'm not as happy about it as I could be. Does it help a lot of people? Yes. Are they for the most part people who need and deserve it? That's up to their networks. It's actually kind of nice because I don't have to evaluate and judge each and every crowdfunding opportunity that comes along. The networks for these projects take care of that. I've only contributed to two projects in my life, and only one of them used an online platform. When I see something I dearly wish I had money to contribute toward, I do what I can to give it a little exposure. In the future, I'm hoping to be able to change my giving to sharing ratio. I think too many people outside of indie film get bombarded with fundraising messages with no good context in which to place them. Hopefully that's not happening on mine. I'm contacting people directly. But that's just a starting point. How it takes shape and rolls beyond those I already know is rather mysterious.

But to get back to the division of wealth, one of the strangest things I've observed is this vein of dissonance running through the indie film community over famous people crowdfunding. The argument seems to be that it should be saved for those who need it. Now, that's not laissez-faire, nor is it kind; more importantly, it's not practical. For one thing, famous doesn't automatically connote rich and even if it did, trying to limit someone else's creative potential over a quality based solely on perception, a quality which can dissipate at any moment, is absurd and, to reiterate, unkind. To get to the practical matter of the issue is that pie chart I mentioned. If famous people can help to redistribute that wealth even a little, then that's a good thing. But I would caution people not to have stars in their eyes. If you want to complain about something, complain about campaigns that keep trying to raise funds after they've made their goals. It's classless and an indication you set the wrong goal in the first place.

For that matter, while we're on the subject of greed, please make sure you fundraise what you need. Not "how much you can get." I worry that people think we're all socialists, when it's only socialism to an extent. Just because a filmmaker gives to others' campaigns doesn't mean that filmmaker can expect reciprocity; the same goes with audience for those films. That's capitalism. I worry about people being misled and exploited, thinking that they're buying into a system that's eventually going to pay off for everybody when obviously that has not been and will continue to not necessarily be the case. It pains me to say it, but most of the people I've met in independent film are pretty thickly mired in middle class values. So I guess I also worry about disillusionment.

An online friend of mine stunned me last summer, to give you an example of mild disillusionment. He hadn't really been using Twitter, just Facebook, and it was clear he hadn't done any real research on crowdfunding before he jumped into it to raise money for a production studio. In fact, he pretty much just asked a random question on Facebook about it and I came out far and away in favor of Kickstarter, with good arguments to back that up, and then he used IndieGoGo instead. Like, a couple days later. His campaign was not going well and hadn't ended before he started a second IndieGoGo campaign to raise money for the production studio's first film. Then that started to founder. I emailed him about it and he said that he was surprised that none of his industry contacts were supportive of his venture. This is the part where I should add that he lives in L.A. I tried my best to break it to him gently that I wasn't surprised. I'm a research hound, though, so I was pretty speechless beyond that.

What is the casting process like?

In this crazy, old city, it's a doozy. TOLL ROAD was the first film I'd ever had a formal casting for, and I have to say that it was worth the rigor I put myself through, to do it in a way that I felt would benefit everyone. I diverged from the norm in that I formed relationships with people online during the course of the process. Not so much before the actual audition night; actors are both understandably skittish of saying too much before an audition and busy. But with all the truly good ones who showed up, I was firm friends by the time I had the film cast. I was making solid foundations and inroads for future filmmaking: The 48 Hour Film Project, HOTCAKES, the next one...

Of course, we still had a few absolute loons show up and put on a show. One of them even got my cell number somehow and left me a half dozen messages about us doing lunch. Like we were going to The Palms or something, like I was Dean Martin and she was going to be the newest member of the Rat Pack. And this was after she turned in an audition that left everyone in the room uncomfortable with its craziness -- craziness, mind you, that included playing with my cookies while she was "in character." There were no cookies in the script, not even any food in the script (it's not that kind of film), and she was moving around my cookies right in front of me during the reading. It also seemed vaguely sexual, in a way I can't really put my finger on. We didn't do lunch.

Since then, I've developed a system of getting to know and then writing for specific people. With HOTCAKES, it backfired in two small ways. First, I wrote a waitress role for someone who had never been a waitress. In retrospect, I should have asked if she had; the physicality of it made her feel awkward. Second, the woman I wrote the fortune teller role for moved the week of rehearsals. I had to find a replacement right quick. But you have to be a dedicated actor for me to write you a role. If you're a stand-in, you're not an actor. If you're looking to make a big break in background work, you're deluding yourself and you're probably not an actor. Try an indie film like Kat Loyacano did and get dirty.

How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

The mainstream ones almost always give me a headache. Or worse, an eye ache. The independent ones often do too, but I guess I prefer better odds of seeing something innovative, or possibly even inventive, and definitely less stuffy. I like it when filmmakers put the real back in realism and that usually comes from the indie camp.

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

Probably 2001: A Space Odyssey. But only if Kubrick promised not to be cruel to me like he was to Shelley Duvall.

What's your favorite movie quote and why?

Honestly, I don't have one. It's about character, not lines.

What is your opinion on movie remakes?

My initial reaction is always to say that I don't watch them, but I've noticed a trend. If I'm not aware of or haven't seen the original and it looks decent, I watch (3:10 to Yuma). If I've seen the original, and especially if I loved it, chances are no power on this earth could get me to see a remake. The studios put them out to make money in "lean" times, and I try to avoid giving money to studios whenever I can.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

Wish we saw more of it, but I also think it could use more diversity. Brit lit has had kind of a choke hold on the industry for a while now. If you look at the Oscar contenders and what films really impacted people over the last couple of decades, you'll find British authors quite a bit. I love Atonement, but it would be nice to see a film of that caliber come out of the independent sphere, only from a new point of view. We need subversion, we need to have our taboos and norms pushed at and questioned and challenged to a proper verbal duel. And we need that from the entire world. Which is all part and parcel of being in independent film and not caring much about Hollywood.

Who is the best vaudeville performer of all time?

I don't honestly know; I can only say that my favorite is Charlie Chaplin. I suspect that I would have loved Vaudeville, though. If I had lived in that era, I might have opted to be a classic stage actress. After work, I would've skipped over to the follies to get my turn.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I'd like to invite you and your readers to the online HOTCAKES test screening, going live privately on YouTube on January 28. All you have to do is subscribe to the channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/filmielady

For the online portion, we may rely on comment fields and analytics, but we do reserve the right to track down your email address so that we can send you a questionnaire, should you be so inclined. It's optional, of course. Also --

Thank you very much for electing to maintain a blog like this that opens up artists' worlds to others. And don't forget what I said about how a hobby can turn into a career. Those words may haunt you yet, John Hoff.

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Thank you for doing the interview Jo. I wish you all the best with your Kickstarter campaign.  I was also diagnosed with a learning disability as both a child and recently as an adult.   I agree I think having an obstacle to overcome can be very inspiring and push a person to do their very best work.

SIDENOTE: I heard that Charlie Chaplin once came in 3rd in a Charlie Chaplin look-a-like contest.

Thursday, January 19, 2012

Filmmaker Arthur Luhn



 

Arthur Luhn was born in Aspen, Colorado and moved to Vermont with his mother when he was 3. In Vermont, he began attending the Austine School for the Deaf. It was at this time he discovered making movies at the age of 7 or 8 through being exposed to a 8mm film camera his stepfather had. It was not long before he was wreaking havoc on the family household, making short movies ranging from horror (which left a front screen door destroyed and his mother furious) to comedy (which took up an entire garage, locking out the cars for a long time).  The introduction of a VHS movie camera into the household only made things worse.

 

With his transfer to the Brattleboro Union High School, the household became a lot more sane, as Arthur’s passion in filmmaking waned. From high school he went on to attend Boston University where he intended to major in Archaeology. He found the mathematic and ethical aspect of the field very tedious and boring. That, along with the death of a close family member, inspired him to change his major to religion and philosophy where he studied extensively and read voraciously in the fields of philosophy, mythology, religion, and psychology, earning a degree in comparative religions study.

 

It was not until a few years after graduating that his interest in filmmaking suddenly surged with the purchase of a drastically marked down video camera at a department store. It was not long before he was making movies at a furious pace, starting with his first short film, “Destination Eyeth” which was featured on PBS’s “History Through Deaf Eyes” that aired nationwide.  He went on to write and direct his first full length feature, “The Golden Legacy” a year later and finished the film in two years. This was followed by “Conned” his biggest and most audacious project to date, taking three years to make.  Arthur now resides on the south shore in the Greater Boston area and is on work on his third feature film, a psychological thriller that takes place in a quiet sleepy town.

What is the current project you are working on?

We just finished “Conned” an action-comedy indie film that’s been making the rounds on the festival circuit with tremendous success. It’s won a few awards- best film, best director, best DP, an audience award for best film, and it’s been nominated for best original screenplay. Right now I’m working on a webisode series called “Lil Miss Repo” and working on the next feature, a psychological thriller that I hope to get going this winter.

How do you define success?

Doing what you love to do and getting paid to do it.

How do you handle rejection?

I just let it roll off my back. I don’t keep count or hold grudges. Getting rejected isn’t a bad thing in my mind, anyway, because it means you’re trying to get somewhere. I think it’s worse to not get rejected because that means you’re not even trying.

Did you always want to be involved with the film industry?

I don’t think I see it that way- I just want to make movies, whether or not that stipulates that one be involved with an “industry.”

What inspired you to become involved with the film industry?

My inspirations are driven by movies and making them.

What are some of the best things about the industry?

I don’t know- I haven’t been involved to the extent to be able to give a satisfactory answer.

What are some of the worst things about it?

I guess I can’t really remark on this either. I’m not really qualified.

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

I’ve done two features, working on my third now. I’ve done almost 10 short films I think- lost count there.

Who is is your favorite filmmaker?

I especially admire those filmmakers who I believe represent the next generation and are always pushing the envelope: Christopher Nolan, Guy Ritchie, to name a few.

How has your life changed since you became involved with the film industry?

I’ve become more broke.

What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants to start a career in the entertainment field?

Make sure it’s something you absolutely love doing and wouldn’t rather be doing something else, because you’re going to pay for it with your life.

What do you to do when you're not on set?

What anyone else would do with their free time, I guess.

How would you describe your film education?

Never-ending. I’m always learning, trying new things, studying other filmmakers, or continually reading up on it.

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

I don’t have a favorite film- it’s like asking me what’s my favorite snowflake.. there’s just so many movies out there that I admire and wouldn’t want to leave out if I had to pick one or even a top ten. I don’t watch TV so I’m extremely incompetent there, I’m afraid.

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

A long stretch of white beach giving way to clear blue seas, somewhere in the Carribean. Two leaning palm trees with the requisite hammock and also a surfboard nearby.

How has social media changed the independent film industry?

It’s given indie films a fighting chance for recognition. Levels out the playing field, it seems.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

I think it’s good- it’s a good tool, but like any other method of raising funds, you have to put in the work.

How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

Well the subject matter is of course far more electic, but I don’t see any particular advantage one has over the other. It all comes down to how good your story is.

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

Star Wars. I know by now it’s beyond cliché, but at the time it was a very ground-breaking film. To paraphrase Monty Python’s saying: “And now for something completely different.” I think that just captures it so well. I’d like to have been there to see how the creative process was coming together and how various people were reacting to it. I know a lot of people were shaking their heads at it at the time, and only Alan Ladd jr. was nodding his head at this spectacular other-worldly vision.

Do you believe in life on other planets?

I believe in Planet Eyeth!

What's your favorite movie quote and why?

I don’t really have one. Too many of them in my head.

What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

Never really been a fan of them except in rare cases where sequels are justified and well-done, and even sometimes better, as in the case of the “Empire Strikes Back.”

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

If it’s done well, then those are fine by me but you rarely if ever see that. The creative space that a book gives you is much more time-friendly and more flexible than a film which is far more constricting because you’ve got a certain time limit, so there’s a lot of compression involved. Sometimes it’s done well, sometimes it’s not. “No Country for Old Men” was done pretty well.