Filmmaker Claire Wasmund

Claire Wasmund is a Midwest raised award-winning screenwriter and filmmaker whose written work has appeared in nationally published journals including film magazine Indie Slate Magazine. 

Claire produced the award-winning, independent feature film The Grover Complex written by, produced, and starring Fernando Noor.   The feature was an official selection of 15 film festivals, earning "Best Comedy" and "Best of Festival" awards as well as a “Filmmakers to Watch” award for Wasmund and Noor.  

Claire is the creator and writer of the web series Partners in Pretension also starring Fernando Noor and Tristan Scott-Behrends, which has over 200,000 views on Koldcast TV and appears on four other online networks. 



Claire has also directed episodes of Diary of a Wedding Planner and is currently in post-production on a fantasy short film with Longlost Pictures and Fernando Noor.

Claire lives in Los Angeles where she works as a filmmaker at T.G.C. Films with Fernando Noor.

What is the current project you’re working on?

I’m currently finishing up a fantasy short film titled, “The Tale of the Heroine and the Cad”, and then going into pre-production on another short film and a feature film.

How do you measure success?

By how many times I’ve high-fived myself.  But really more if I’m happily moving towards the bigger picture.

How do you handle rejection?

I spend a week thinking about how that person is an idiot; occasionally I’ll make a list.  The next week I spend thinking about how I’m an idiot; occasionally I’ll make a list.  The next week I combine those lists and come up with points both myself and my rejecter need to improve on.  It’s okay to be angry, but try to learn.

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

Yeah, there are videos of me forcing my younger brothers to be in my early films.  There is one video of a My Little Pony massacre; another video of me running with my dog to catch some invisible assailant who was chasing my brother on his Big Wheel.  I dreamed big.

What inspired you to become a filmmaker?

An overwhelming desire for immortality.

What is the best thing about creating a webseries?

You don’t have to wait for permission to screen it.  With a short or a feature, when you go the traditional route with them you have to wait for festival acceptance or for distribution to be finalized.  With a web series, when you’re ready to put it up, you put it up. You get faster feedback which means you can learn faster.

What is the worst thing about creating one?

I think they lack respect.  I’ve encountered some great ones who have about a feature’s worth of content and half the time no one cares because “it’s a web series”.  It does seem like you could slap together a real sub-par feature and get a lot of praise for “doing a feature”, and then take your time on a well-put-together web series with the same amount of content and have people scoff because “it will only be online”.

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

Maybe 15?  Thanks for throwing the word “estimated” in there.

How has your life changed since you created your webseries?

I got to work, and continue to work, with some fantastic people who will surely improve every future project they touch.  That is invaluable.

You’re also constantly learning how to better deal with people.  I met some disappointing people on this series and it taught me a valuable lesson in when to get rid of people before they become problems.

What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants to become create their own series?

Please spend time on your script.  Please.  One draft or two drafts doesn’t cut it.  It all begins with the script.

Have you had any other jobs before you decided to create “Partners in Pretension”?

After and during college I worked with the developmentally disabled which teaches you a whole new way to look at the world.  In Los Angeles I’ve worked with the elderly, I’ve worked as a prop master, I’ve written for a web site, and I’ve worked in reality TV.  I add all of those experiences to a list of memories I plan to use in my writing later.

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

I love The Sopranos.  I like Fargo, Grosse Pointe Blank, When Harry Met Sally, Sideways, A Fish Called Wanda, and many more that escape me.

How would you describe your film education?

I went to the New York Film Academy’s one year program for screenwriting.  Before that I was in school for English.  A lot of my film education has come from trial and error and a group of supportive friends.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

If you can do it, you’re amazing… and please make sure you thank your contributors.

How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

I think you work harder for less applause, but at the same time you get to court your own approval more.

What's your favorite quote and why?

“All you need in this life is ignorance and confidence; then success is sure.” ~Mark Twain

I think a lot of us spend time thinking, “why that person?”  Often it’s because they went for it and didn’t apologize or even think too hard.  You can question their talent, but at the end of the day they had the guts to put their work (whatever quality it was) out there for all the world to see and you didn’t because you were sitting at home mulling over the consequences.  Even if you know what could go wrong, stop thinking about what could go wrong.

What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

I wish they wouldn’t.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Two things:

For all creators and performers of any kind: You are great and you are brave.

And finally, please watch “Partners in Pretension” at www.partnersinpretension.com

 

Creator and Executive Editor of "The Entertainment Corner" MireilleMiskulin

Mireille Miskulin is the Creator and Executive Editor of The Entertainment Corner (www.theentertainmentcorner.com), a website dedicated to providing film buffs the inside scoop on all things Entertainment. The Entertainment Corner features reviews, news, and interviews with various established, as well as up and coming talents within the entertainment industry. Those featured include Actors, Directors, Producers, Writers and many more. Miskulin uses social media tools such as Twitter (@EntertainCorner) and Facebook as platforms to network with industry professionals that are interested in having their projects promoted on The Entertainment Corner, and to interact with those who share her passion for entertainment.

What is the current project you are working on?

Other than The Entertainment Corner you mean? Sorry, but I learned early on that it’s best to keep projects “close to the vest”. If something doesn’t come to fruition, it’s not always possible to share why it did not pan out. Once a project is reality then I am always more than happy to discuss it with people.

How do you define success?

Simply put … accomplishing what I set out to do.

How do you handle rejection?

Depends on the situation. I base everything on levels of priority. The higher on my priority list the more self re-evaluation will take place. Everything in life happens or does not happen for a reason. The most important thing is that we learn from both our successes and failures.

How you always been interested in the entertainment industry?

Yes, most aspects of it.

What inspired you to create "The Entertainment Corner"?

The desire to help people I care about combined with my love for certain aspects of the entertainment industry. Plus, I love creating something that is truly all my own.

What is the best thing about having your website?

The opportunity it gives me to connect with people from all over the globe. To be constantly reminded that people are people everywhere and we share more in common than not. It is a wonderful learning experience!

What is the worst thing about having one?

The bad comes with the good. Even though having a website is a wonderful chance to learn and grow as a person, being connected globally also serves as a reminder that some people are capable of being cruel and truly inconsiderate of others.

Who is your favorite filmmaker?

Unable to pick just one, there are many talented filmmakers. I will choose to say the ones that are good storytellers.

How has your life changed since you started your site?

New worlds and new opportunities have opened up to me. I get to do something I love to do and meet wonderful people along the way.

What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants to start their own site?

Do everything with passion, do not give-up, and believe in your self!

What do you like to do when you’re not working on your site?

In no particular order: spending time with the people I love, watching movies, listening to music, reading, cooking, traveling, day dreaming, laughing.

Have you had any other jobs before you decided to become creator of "The Entertainment Corner"?

Yes of course, I actually still have a full-time day job.

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

It’s only within the past few years that I’ve gotten into watching foreign films, so it’s still new territory for me to explore.

Foreign: Amalie; Life is Beautiful; Cinema Paradiso; Slumdog Millionaire; Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.

Just some of the American films I like: Some Like It Hot; the first three Indiana Jones movies; Powder; the original Star Wars trilogy; North By North West; The Method, To Catch A Thief; The Sound of Music; Saving Private Ryan; Suicide Kings, Forrest Gump; Shakespeare in Love; Planes, Trains & Automobiles; Sixteen Candles; Mr. Smith Goes To Washington; The King’s Speech; Meet Me In St. Louis; Run The Wild Fields; The Artist; Schindler’s List; The Good, The Bad and The Ugly; Into The Fire; Space Balls; Princess Bride; The Apartment; Bringing Up Baby; To Kill A Mocking Bird; Back To The Future; Disney’s Beauty and the Beast … I could go on, and on.

As for Television, I watch the History Channel, various movie channels, and occasionally the Food Network.

How would you describe your entertainment education?

I would describe my entertainment education as a mix of “the school of real life” with a healthy dose of I am still in the learning process.

How do you choose what guests to have on your site?

Either I contact people and request an interview, or people/their representatives contact me for an interview.

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

Despite the fact that there has been at least 100-feature films shot in and around this area, it’s very much a “cultural wasteland”. Public arts funding is low compared to similar sized cities. What creative and cultural events do occur here gets little to no mention by the local media. Things are changing very slowly and it is one of the reasons why I am happy to have social media outlets where I can connect with places that have a thriving creative “scene”.

How has social media helped "The Entertainment Corner"?

Social Media enables more people to discover “The Entertainment Corner”, and in turn gives me the opportunity to reach a larger audience. There is also the benefit of meeting more potential interviewees, arranging reviews, and generally just connecting with other people.

How has social media hindered your site?

The saying, “It’s a jungle out there!” applies. Social Media users are constantly bombarded by vast amounts of information, ways to spend/waste time, etc. Every social media outlet and website is competing for the attention of an audience. It’s not enough to establish a loyal following, the true challenge is to remain interesting and dynamic enough to maintain and build that following.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

First, as long as the project is worthy of making, then crowdfunding is a good way to get started. This would be one of the first mistakes I feel some people make, the inability to recognize that their project will likely not appeal to a large enough audience to be successful.

Also, a well-planned marketing strategy must be developed, and implemented. Poor marketing of their project is the second mistake I see being made by some. They potentially have a good project; yet they do not know how to effectively reach out to people.

Promotion of the funding goal should be intermixed with interacting and engaging people. Some of the most successful campaigns do this, whether it’s by making videos for their audience, to making an interactive imaginary town map based on their film.

Creativity should not stop once the director calls “that’s a wrap”, it must continue on until the movie is in front of the audience. Two examples of successful crowdfunding campaigns I recommend people study are: Director Gary King’s “How Do You Write A Joe Schermann Song” Kickstarter campaign, and Phil Holbroook/Kings A Fink “Tilt The Movie” campaign.

How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

Independent films, for the most part, have considerably lower film budgets. They are screened at film festivals before distribution, which usually means in the retail market.

Often the independent filmmakers must undertake many jobs in order for their film to reach audiences. It’s not uncommon to have the writer be the director and the producer, and the editor, etc.

Mainstream, or major studio, pictures have the financial resources to hire entire departments devoted to do everything from accounting, dialect coaches, to hair and make-up.

Independent filmmakers get to have more control over their projects; where as filmmakers who are backed by major studios have red tape and corporate medaling to deal with.

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

It would have to be the first “motion picture” ever made. Eadweard Muybridge is credited with creating the first “motion picture”, The Horse In Motion (1878); if anyone before him made a “moving picture” there is no record of it. Why would I want to go back and see that you may ask, because it would be fascinating to see people’s reactions and to witness the humble birth of motion pictures!

What's your favorite quote and why?

There are many quotes that inspire and hold meaning for me, picking only one was not easy…

“The greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.” ~ Eden Ahbez

Love is universal; it is something every living creature needs and desires. Learning to love and accept love in return is not always easy, but it is worth it.

What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

Movie remakes can be good if the following conditions are met: enough time has passed since the original version has been made, the story is still relevant to today’s audiences, the acting and directing is good quality.

Sequels rarely turn out as good as the first film, there are a few rare exceptions to this rule. Audiences have certain expectations built up, if the story, quality, etc. do not meet the standards set by the first film, the succeeding films will not be well received. Most sequels are done for money and not the love of filmmaking and good storytelling.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptations?

When I read a book, a good book anyway, I make my own movie in my mind. No movie on the real screen could ever be exactly like the imagination. Having said that, I believe that if done properly a book to movie adaptation can turn out well. No matter how good a movie adaptation is, there will always be those who are not satisfied with the results. Just two examples of book to movie adaptations that I feel turned out well are: To Kill A Mocking Bird (1962), and Schindler’s List (1993); there certainly are more examples out there.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thank you for the opportunity to chat with you. I wish you continued success.

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Thank you Mireille for doing the interview.  Thank you for all you do to support film. I'll be doing what I can to spread the word about "The Entertainment Corner".  I wish you all the best. It's been  a pleasure chatting with a fellow entertainment fan.

Composer Laura Olson

Like most classically trained musicians Laura studied piano and cello as a young child and fell in love with electronic music as well as celtic harp in her later years.  Combining the three styles of music seems like a natural extension of her years as a symphonic musician and a music educator.  She resides in the central valley of California and is the owner of her recording label Blue Steer Studios http://www.BlueSteerStudios.com.    Mossflower Country and her latest score for Border Guardians of Ackernon is composed with large scale orchestrations and choir in the scope of a big-budget feature film.   Her current projects include scoring a yet untitled documentary about web series and her upcoming album Gypsy Road.

You can also follow her on Twitter https://twitter.com/#!/BlueSteerStudio and

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/Blue-Steer-Studios/132780693424736

What was it like creating the soundtrack for "Border Guardians of Ackernon"?

Working on an indie project means little to no money so I try to take projects that appeal to me.   I really love fantasy books and movies so I couldn’t wait to start working on this one!  It’s an amazingly well thought out story set in a world with Russian and Mongolian influences.    I’ve had some experience with doing Asian music in previous projects but had never attempted anything of a Russian nature so this was new and fun for me.

I was going to have to work very fast once the filming was done so I started working on themes as soon as I could with the director’s input.  It was definitely a collaborative process all the way.  The director wanted music that was mature and deep to fit the characters and epic because even though they were very short episodes they were to connect together as a larger work resembling a feature film.  Again because there wasn’t a big budget I did most of the instruments myself enlisting the aid of some friends, and sweetened it with sampled sequencing.

One of the more interesting days was working on the “under-voicing” for the scene where Arges speaks telepathically to the camp counselors.  Each scene had to present his voice in a musical context corresponding to their personalities.  It was tricky and difficult to make sure his actual voice wasn’t masked and that the dialogue remained clear.
How do you define success?

When I’ve given the director absolutely what he wanted for a scene.  This can be easier said than done.  This kind of success is a result of good communication and collaboration within the team of people making the film. It also points out how important it is to ask the right questions from the director and if you need to ask questions from the art department too.   It’s so vitally important for the music to enhance the scene and not detract from it and getting just the right emotion.

I also define success in a broader sense of getting to do what I want to do with no restrictions.  (Other than my own self-imposed ones)   For that to happen I need to receive recognition that what I’m doing has value and others want it to be done by me.  I’ll be the first one to admit that usually needs be by selling CD’s, commissions, and contracts for work. If the work pays for the costs of making it then that is a success!  Awards can also be a nice way to show that your work has value.  I also like to use my work in classroom settings to turn kids onto film music and the broader realm of classical music.  That can be very rewarding.
How do you handle rejection? 

Rejection is not necessarily failure.  Art is subjective.  I’ve experienced tons of rejection and even though I’m not happy that my music wasn’t well received I can honestly say it’s made me a better composer. I don’t give up.  Rejection forces me to try to hear my music more objectively and to also address what elements are important for me to get feedback on, and which are not.   Every artist has some aspect of their art where outside opinions just don’t matter.    So, because I want to be commercially successful, I pay attention to these elements and work on trying to give the listeners what they are looking for while still retaining my own sense of style.   But my music has to always be what I want first.  If I don’t like it then it doesn’t matter what someone else thinks of it.

Rejection also happens without me even knowing about it.  And it happens without really knowing why.  It’s like getting a “D” on a paper at school and not knowing what was wrong with it.  I would like to know if it was rejected for something that can be improved like mixing or recording quality or if it was rejected for a more subjective nature.

What inspired you to create Blue Steer Studios? 

I was starting to do more projects of a professional nature and I wanted to present a more business-like image to my clients.  It was also important to me for the community (and my peers) to see that I was taking composing seriously and that it was not just a hobby fun thing to do.  I was also starting to get more corporate and private accounts and making some money and spending it.  My accountant suggested that I start a business for tax reasons so that I could write off my expenses against my revenue.  Great advice!

I’ve worked for a number of years out of spare rooms and apartments and as anyone can tell you who works at home, it is really easy to get distracted by the mundane household chores.  A few years ago I finally purchased the house of my dreams and it came with a 2000 sf barn.  So the barn is being currently converted to my official studio space.  I will have a composing suite, a live recording space, a small dry vocal space and a mixing space. And a couch.  Can’t forget the couch!  I can handle most of what an independent film/tv producer might want including sound design and field recording.  Having my own recording label also gives me something to offer recording performers.  I can make their album for them and have it retail ready.  Now I get to seek out performers who would like to make an album but have never pursued it.
What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on? 
Somewhere around 12-15, I guess. Wait I just thought of another few… I’m only really thinking of my big projects like films or full albums that have actually been published or released. I’ve also done free projects for the experience or as favors. I’m just starting to get to a point where people are seeking me out instead of the other way around.  Of course I love doing the film style scoring the best but one of my favorite projects in the past was a composition I wrote for the Buchanan High School band, orchestra, and choir.  They were to perform the music (in a rehearsal setting) and then be filmed rehearsing it to use as the background score for an ad campaign.  I have to say it was really great to see young students playing music that I wrote just for them.
Who is your favorite composer? 

Do I get to pick only one?  If forced to choose only one it would have to be someone whose work is the most mentally and emotionally stimulating.  Johannes Brahms has got to be it for me.  His work is intriguing in so many ways.  His melodies can be incredibly complex and also simple at the same time.   There isn’t anything he’s written that I’ve heard that I don’t like.  I also like the way he incorporates folk tunes into his work.   His use of instrumentation and tone color are very advanced for the time period when he was alive and I love his orchestration ideas for blending instruments.  Every good composer can use good techniques but much of his work goes beyond that into innovation.

As I listen to a wide variety of music from many different genres I have learned to respect the ideas that go behind that kind of music.  My favorite composer for Irish Traditional Music is Ed Reavy. in electronic music I find myself listening to BT (Brian Transeau), Karl Stockhausen, Kraftwerk, and Brian Eno.  In film music I love listening to Hans Zimmer, Alan Silverstein, Brian Tyler, John Williams, and Harry Gregson-Williams and I frequently listen to the older styles of Max Steiner and Erich Korngold .  They’re a hoot.  Then of course there’s centuries of classical composers…
How has your life changed since you started Blue Steer Studios?

It has actually become more complicated and more challenging mentally.  It’s a lot to juggle and I’ve improved my discipline about working.  Part of running a business means I’m seeking out work if I don’t have any projects underway.  Many times these projects are free but my strategy is to do such a great job that I end up making some great connections with directors.  I’ve become more proficient and active with the social media as well as developing my own website.  I have to admit I’m not comfortable asking people for money so my marketing takes on a more “personality advertising” approach.

Projects have come my way that have allowed me to travel and meet new people so I’m doing a lot more traveling than I used to.  I’ve also had to learn more about the technological side of my studio.  I never realized how much my reading budget of time and money was going to increase!  I’m also finding that many of my peers and friends are coming to me to help them with their projects which I love.  I’m always happy to help and I’m glad that I can be here for them to provide advice and give out the little knowledge that I have.
What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants to become a composer? 

If you’re doing a project for someone else make sure you ask enough of the right kinds of questions.  You don’t want to miss some important detail about a scene or emotion that might completely change how you approach the cue.  Many times directors need help refining what they really want.  I’ve been very fortunate to work with people that have some basic knowledge of music so it makes it easier to discuss concepts like rhythm, melody, and harmony, but so many people out there don’t really even know those terms.   They don’t understand how music works.  It’s like a mysterious magical force of nature.  They know it’s important for their show but that’s all.

Study, Study, Study, practice, practice, practice, and get feedback from as many people you can that you consider authorities on the subject.  There is so much reading that can be helpful as well as people you can interact with through the internet.   Going to a school that specializes in your type of composing is great because not only do you get the study, practice, and feedback you get connections to people in the industry.  You usually have better access to people who can (and will want to) perform your works. Also do as many students projects as you can even if for free to gain experience and insight.  That sort of goes under the “practice” category…
What do you like to do besides composing?

I love gardening and just puttering around on my “farm”.  There’s always some kind of little project that needs to be done.  Fixing fences and repairing sheep enclosures has been high on the list this year.  I’m a voracious reader of everything Science Fiction or Fantasy related.  I like outdoor walks with my doggy friends and I play combat re-enactment games (Vietnam or WWII) that use airsoft equipment with my Vietnam era veteran friends.

I’ve started spending more time volunteering at the Fresno Bully Rescue.  I love dogs (I have my own Australian Shepherd) and want to do more to help those that have made it their life’s work to rescue animals.  This group of people works really hard to rescue and shelter these dogs and get them into forever homes.  They also are great at community outreach to educate people about the bad rap this breed of dog is getting and are working to end breed specific legislation.  So I try to help them. I plan on offering to donate the sales of my newest CD to this organization and others rescues when it gets released later this year…
How would you describe your music education?

Well it was pretty typical for a middle income student growing up in a rural public school system.  My High School was fairly large so we had a good size orchestra and that’s when I started to get really serious about playing the cello.  I had been playing in the local community youth orchestras and State Honor Orchestras etc. and eventually worked my way up to section leader.   My choices, unfortunately, as a career were told to me to be education, therapy, or the performance route.   I wanted a stable career and wasn’t into healing people so I chose colleges that trained for public school music teaching.  I didn’t know you could have a career in music business or composing or even orchestration.   In college the composing majors were mysterious people lurking in the back halls of the school.  The few concerts that I attended were very avant-garde (I even performed a few…) and not at all appealing to me.    I don’t regret my education as it did indeed prepare me to be a great teacher. And now I feel like I have the ability to address being a composer to my students and plant that seed in their minds that they might not have thought of.

Later (about 10 years) I went back to school for a Masters degree in Performance.  But this time I tailored it to exactly what I wanted to study.  It became a historical ethnomusicology based line of study focusing specifically in Irish Traditional Music.  I ended up presenting an over the top, theatrically staged concert with costumes and sets and a ton of friends playing Irish music for over two hours.  It was recorded and broadcast by the local PBS station here and I’m very proud of it.  I had a large audience, somewhere around 100 people I think, and it was very well received by the community.  I was my first experience in marketing on a larger scale and I learned some very useful lessons.
What are some of your favorite American film soundtracks?

Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, and Last Samurai is at the top of the list.  Then comes Rocketeer, the and third Pirates of the Caribbean, the first Narnia, Constantine, the first Tomb Raider.  I confess I don’t watch too much tv unless I can catch it on hulu or Netflix.  Battlestar Galactica (the newest version), Merlin, Deadwood, The Walking Dead.   I love the music for Firefly and MI-5 and the new series Once Upon a Time is pretty good.  The theme song for Castle is really catchy.  Even though they are older series the music for West Wing, XFiles and Lost.   Its hard for me to watch a show and not pay attention to the music.
How would you describe the music "scene" where you live?

The Fresno/Clovis community is primarily agricultural area with an active sports interest.  So local interest in the arts is present but not pervasive.   We have a very good Philharmonic Orchestra, two great University Orchestras, some fabulous magnet art schools with very active teaching staffs,  youth orchestras that run from elementary to high school,  2 community wind bands, and a the standard indie band, jazz, and bluegrass ensembles that play at the local pubs and venues.   Some people say that we are a cultural “black hole” but I wouldn’t go that far. Not every place can be L.A. or the Bay Area.   This area is improving in the way it treats the arts but very slowly.  I see too many bands playing for free around town or for dinners and the like.  Really good bands, not hacks.  Many of the local venues take advantage of the eagerness and need for the musicians to play by not paying fair wages I think, but the musicians put up with it because they are so desperate to play. It’s a tough catch 22 situation that many of us are working to improve. Ok, I’ll get off my soap box now…

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

I firmly believe that art should be supported by the community.  That being said, today’s community is very global and has different ways to show support of their favorite artists.   I feel that people should get something for their money.   The best way they can show support is by purchasing the music that they like and not stealing it. That is in its essence “crowdfunding”.  But I know you’re talking about the websites that market your project to mass “crowds” for lots of little bits of money rather than one or two big investors.

I’m seeing more and more artists and directors turning to this as a source of getting their projects made and it looks like this is a marketing method that is here to stay.  I might try this someday but there are still a lot of legal financial bugs that I want worked out first.   I’m still reading too many horror stories about failed KickStarter or IndieGoGo projects and the implications.  So I’ll wait a little longer and in the meantime keep working the traditional marketing methods.  Here’s my fear…”A big pile of money from a lot of people who won't feel serious pain if it all burns up is a formula for nobody taking the investment seriously”.  Nothing speaks louder to an artist (or interested corporate sponsors) than CD sales or hits/views on a website.

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

Without a second thought it would be “Star Wars”.  I’m acquainted with a harpist who played for the London Symphony at the time when they got the contract to record the score.  (Although I didn’t meet her until after the fact…)  I loved hearing her stories about what it was like to be in a recording session on such a large scale.   Before this score was made, big orchestra music from the 40s and 50s had gone out of style for movies.  Star Wars brought it back in a new grander style with a vengeance!  I know John Williams said that eventually large orchestras would come back into vogue and he doesn’t want to take credit for that happening but I disagree.   It takes a creative team willing to take risks to turn the tide of fashion.   I would LOVE to witness the endless spotting sessions, team collaboration and decisions that went into the making of that particular score.   It was a huge piece of work and nothing has rivaled it until the making of the score for “Lord of the Rings” by Howard Shore.

What's your favorite movie musical quote and why?

I have a few that I’m partial to.  My favorite is If it sounds good, it is good.  Said by Duke Ellington, a very introspective composer who describes the nature of art so perfectly.   Another is the one on my website, less well known but fits my personal philosophies of life and music so I use it.  Life is like music, it must be composed by ear, feeling and instinct, not by rule.  Nevertheless one had better know the rules, for they sometimes guide in doubtful cases, though not often.  Samuel Butler.

Have you been to Ireland? 

Yes.  I have a Masters of Performance in Irish Traditional Music (Ethnomusicology) and part of my research was to study the music at its source.  I spent a week in the east and south of Ireland and Dublin and another week on the west coast and into the Belfast area of Northern Ireland.  It was very educational and informational (not to mention just plain fun) meeting people and playing in sessions in pubs and other venues.  I met so many music makers from academic historians to pub owners (who sponsor and encourage the local music scene) to just your average street musicians making music and maybe even trying to sell it to tourists.  From there I went on to England and Scotland to contrast the music scene there.  I discovered that it was very different from Ireland even though it’s so close geographically.  Even though it was a while ago that I took that trip I still try to maintain communication with some of the people I met there.  I’ve also met new friends via facebook and twitter and I have found some great online radio and tv stations to help me keep current in the “trad” Irish music scene.

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Thank you Laura for doing the interview. I'm a big fan of "Border Guardians of Ackernon" as a series and soundtrack. I wish you all the best with your CD and other projects.

Author Pandora Poikilos

 



International best-selling author, Pandora Poikilos has been writing for more than 10 years for various media which include newspapers, radio, television and various websites.

A social media enthusiast who is passionate about blogging and finding her way around the virtual world, she wills away time in the real world by reading, writing and people watching.

What is the current project you are working on? 

My third and fourth novel, a few short stories and my non-fiction pieces which are titled Dora's Essentials. My third novel is titled "I Am Not You" and features a son who leaves home in disgrace when he is not able to take over the family business and the long road home that he faces. This will be released in April 2012. My fourth novel is "Today, Tomorrow, Never" and is the second book in the Cathy Dixon series.

How do you define success? 

Ten years ago, I would have said success is when you're rich. Now, I say success is when you are happy.

How do you handle rejection?

I keep moving forward. Sometimes it stings a lot but staying in one place mourning about it isn't going to make things any better.

Did you always want to be a writer?

For as long as I can remember. My first article was printed in a local paper when I was thirteen and then I kept writing.

What inspired you to become a writer?

When I first started I had something to get out of my system and in some ways, this is what keeps me going.

What is the best thing about being one?

You get to meet so many different people and when someone says your work helped me through a tough spot, that's just icing on the cake.

What is the worst thing about being one?

Misconception. Some people insist that being a writer is not a way to pay bills. If you're not paying my bills then I think I should be the judge of that.

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

Hundreds. For a long time, I also worked on radio, tv and corporate documentary scripts. I did media junkets, worked on magazine and website articles.

Who is your favorite author?

Charles Dickens.

How has your life changed since you became writer?

 I stick to a routine these days, something I've really done before. Two hours social media networking, two hours writing and two hours editing.

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

Grow a thick skin and keep moving forward.

What do you like to do besides writing?

I love listening to music, making beaded jewellery and sewing.

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

For most of my life, I've been writing. But I've had a string of jobs to pay my bills. I've worked in a cinema, as a public relations executive in a hotel, as a proofreader, a typist to name a few.

How would you describe your education?

I received a BA Mass Communications from Curtin University and I consider myself lucky as some people these days find tertiary education unattainable because of increased fees.

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

I love Curb Your Enthusiasm and the new Sherlock series has me salivating. Other than that some of the series I follow are the Army Wives and the Good Wife.

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

I'm from the UK but travelling through Asia at the moment. Here, self-publishing is slowly catching on but there aren't as many writer cafes or book clubs as I would like.

How has social media changed the publishing industry?

There's Amanda Hocking, Joe Konrath and a host of others who are now paid writers. I think this and Amazon's continuous efforts to improve their services are proof enough that social media has drastically changed the publishing industry. I am confident that more changes will definitely take place over the next five years or so.

How does independent film differ from the mainstream? 

I would like to say it's all budget issue but I also think it's becoming an avenue to discover more talent and to inspire others.

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

Great Expectations. I've always believed that there was a little bit of Dickens in that book and it is one of my favourite books of all times.

Do you believe in life on other planets? 

Honestly, I don't know.

What's your favorite movie quote and why?

Fear can hold you prisoner, hope can set you free.-Shawshank Redemption because it's the absolute truth. I had a VP Shunt inserted in my brain and while the surgery was successful, the pain I felt beyond neurosurgery was out of this world. Most days I was terrified, hope got me through. 

What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

I'm not a big fan of remakes, it usually turns out to be a disappointment because they are now focused on special effects that the story becomes different. Chicken Little fighting off aliens? Hmmm, just not my cup of tea. Sequels I don't mind.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

Some work and some don't. The Notebook was a great adaptation, Great Expectations wasn't.

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Thank you for doing the interview Pandora. I hope to read your work in the future.

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

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.

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".