Friday, June 30, 2006

Kid casting

Casting blonde boys between the ages of 8-12
Casting for "Streaker with Director Lee McCaulla will take place tomorow between 10am-12pm at Berryhills Studio located at 1890 Berryhill Rd. Cordova 38016. This will be a small open call and the boys will read for the director.
Also, I need pretty little girls this age.

Thursday, June 29, 2006

Extras needed for "Blueberry Nights"

Open casting call in Memphis for the movie, "My Blueberry Nights", a film by Wong Kar-wai, Saturday, July 1st, from 1-4pm at Lax's new location, Berry Hills Studio, at 1890 Berry Hill Road, next to Cordova High School. Make sure to bring a photo and a resume, if possible. They're looking for "bar types", people with "great character faces". Those selected for the movie will be used as extras in scenes shot July 17-21 at Downtown's Arcade Restaurant and at the Blues City Cafe on Beale.

'Act One' on DVD

Our latest feature film Act One, which claimed Best Narrative Feature in the hometowner category at 2005’s Indie Memphis Film Festival and screened for two weeks in full engagement at Malco Theatres, is now available on DVD.

The Act One DVD has been mastered through a professional dual-layer replication process – the same method of disc production that has become the industry standard in Hollywood. In addition to the film itself, the DVD boasts an abundance of special features including:
- Motion menus
- Dolby Digital 2.0
- Scene Selection
- Feature Commentary with director Brad Ellis and writer/actor Allen Gardner
- Feature Commentary with lighting designer John Moore, producer Mark Norris, and director of photography Matt Weatherly
- ‘One More Take’ – Behind the Scenes of Act One featurette
- Deleted Scenes with optional director commentary
- Audition Reel
- Outtake Reel
- Photo Slideshow with commentary by photographer Michael Norris
- News Channel 3 “Live at 9” interview with Mark Norris and Matt Weatherly
- News Channel 3 “Live at 9” interview with Brad Ellis and Allen Gardner
- Time Warner TV spots
- Q107.5 Radio Interview with Brad Ellis
- Movie Review by Film Commissioner Linn Sitler
The discs are available at $15 each, a price that includes both tax and shipping. You can purchase the DVD by visiting www.oldschoolpictures.net
, or by contacting mail@oldschoolpictures.net.
We really put a lot of work into this disc and it's filled to the brim with content. As this has certainly been our most rewarding filmmaking experience to date, we'd have it no other way. Thank you to everyone who aided us along the way, and we hope you enjoy the DVD.
- Old School Pictures

LTTM shorts schedule

The last two episodes of the Short's Fest for June air this week on WYPL Channel 18, the Library Channel. Then it's off to the July line up. This is the televised festival that focuses on locally made films and filmmakers. The final two episodes air:
Saturday morning 1:30 a.m.
Saturday night 11:00 p.m.
If you have been procrastinating, this is it! Don't miss these excellent short films by some very talented local filmmakers.
Go to LastTrainToMemphis.com for the latest on the July line up and schedule.

'Heist' crew needed

Seeking Production Crew for Shoot July 24-August 12
Bert Gamboa, Producer
CONTACT: Bert Gamboa Heistcasting@wafilms.com

Location: Memphis (exact location provided to secured crew only)

STORYLINE:
The characters in the movie are chasing after a $30 million diamond bikini.

POSITIONS NEEDED:

--An FX/pyrotechnic artist

--Wardrobe Supervisor (deferred pay) -- Position(s) Available: Two (2) - Some Experience Required.
Work with Director and Make-up Supervisor to discuss vision, feeling and 'look' and develop scene set and wardrobe list. Work in coordination with Make-up Supervisor on set to achieve desired overall design of clothing/costumes and maintain clothing throughout shoot and prepare clothes according to shoot lists/continuity (with Script Supervisor)

--Make-Up Artists (deferred pay) -- Position(s) Available: Four (4) - Some Experience Required.
Work with Director and Wardrobe Supervisor to discuss vision, feeling and "look" and develop scene make-up list.

--Production Assistants (no pay) -- Position(s) Available: Four (4) - Looking to gain experience on set.
PAs will expedite and generally aid the Producer and are assigned, by the producer, to assist others, namely the Director and DP in the performance of their duties. Some tasks may include maintaining props, cable wrangling, unloading of equipment, set strike, etc.

Meals provided per Union agreements - professional shoot/set. "WE WILL FEED YOU"

Friday, June 23, 2006

Monster at the Museum

"Four Eyed Monster" is the story of one couple’s attempt to re-invent modern romance. Arin and Susan’s creative approach to interaction gets out of control as they try to build a serious relationship while not devolving into the “four eyed monster” that other couples around them have become. Called “an Annie Hall for the 25 year old set,” Four Eyed Monster follows the two creative and determined hipsters through their relationship as they try to avoid mediocrity. For more information call 901.544.6208.

Movies at the Brooks -- July

July Film Schedule at Memphis Brooks Museum of Art



Memphis Brooks Museum of Art presents a variety of films next month beginning with the "Rockumentary" series on July 9 and ending with the "Undiscovered Gem" Red Doors on July 25.



The Rockumentary series, inspired by the Annie Leibovitz: American Music exhibition, consists of three films to be shown on consecutive Sunday afternoons. Neil Young: Heart of Gold will screen at 2:00 p.m. on July 9. The following Sunday, July 16, Amazing Grace: Jeff Buckley will be shown, and the final film in the series, New York Doll, will screen on July 23. The rockumentaries will be presented in the Dorothy K. Hohenberg auditorium at the Brooks and are free with museum admission. Attendees will be able to view the Annie Leibovitz exhibition as well as a collection of music photographs by Dr. Ernest Withers, the quilts of Hattie Childress, and the museum's permanent collection.



At 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 13 the Brooks will present Stolen, a film about the largest art heist in modern history. In 1990, thieves disguised as police officers gained entrance to the Isabella Stewart Gardner museum in Boston and stole thirteen masterworks. Among them was Vermeer's The Concert, thought to be the most valuable painting ever stolen. The film takes the audience on a quest with art detective Harold Smith to recover the paintings and in the process to better understand the nature of art itself. Stolen is $5 for Brooks members and $7 for non-members.



Red Doors, the third installment of the Brooks's "Undiscovered Gems" independent film series, will screen on Tuesday, July 25 at 7:00 p.m. Red Doors tells the story of the Wongs, a bizarrely dysfunctional Chinese-American family living in the New York suburbs. Ed Wong has just retired and plots to escape his mundane life. However, the tumultuous lives of his three rebellious daughters change his plans. Red Doors is $5 for Brooks members and $7 for non-members.



Film buffs can look forward to additional screenings at the Brooks in August, including the film Dollars and Signs by local talent Brandon Hutchison, Boy Culture and Say Uncle in conjunction with the Outflix Film Festival, and Whole Hog, the acclaimed barbeque documentary with director Joe York. For more information call 901-544-6208.

Wednesday, June 21, 2006

LFM’s Music Video Showcase call for entries

Live From Memphis™ is announcing a “call for entries” for its 2006 Music Video Showcase.

LFM’s Music Video Showcase is part of the annual Indie Memphis Film Festival. Deadline for entries is September 8, 2006.

Music videos will be screened at Muvico’s Peabody Place 22 Theatre and an award will
be given for “Best Music Video/EPK.” If you are a local filmmaker or local band with a
music video – submit it now! Deadline for entries is September 8, 2006.

This is your chance to ROCK THE BIG SCREEN: the Indie Memphis Film Festival

attracts about 5,000 filmmakers and festival-goers annually.

For more information about LFM’s Music Video Showcase including downloading the
entry form please visit: http://www.livefrommemphis.com/mvs or give us a call: (901)
523-9763.

Tuesday, June 20, 2006

"Heart*Strings"

Check out the trailer at the project's blog or the MySpace site. Morgan Jon Fox and John Tom Roemer are creating exciting work. I say this with perfect objectivity even though my daughter and I are in the movie. And Amber is amazing.

Casting for local short 'In An Instant'

BeAbout It! Productions along with Pittstop Productions brings you the Short Film 'In An Instant' We will be shooting in the next 2-3 weeks. This film will be submitted to Indie Memphis, and other national film festivals. Feel free to visit website www.ArnitaWilliams.com for Demo Reel.

This is a story about a close knit family that all become suspects in the mysterious death of the twin sister's mischievous pro-ball playing husband. Was his sudden death an accident or a planned incident? Suspense Drama, Mystery, Deception, and Murder?

Kyla (Lighthearted Twin)- Already Cast. Lead
Kris- (Stern Twin) -Already Cast. Lead
Devin- Pro Ball Husband, Attractive, Athletic, Very Fit and very tal.l Late 20's early 30's. Must know how to play basketball. Lead
Mr. Cook- Twin's father- African American Male at least in his 50's. Principal
Mrs. Cook- Twins mother- African American Female at least in 50's. Principal
Kris's Fiance- Any ethnicity, Hispanic, Caucasion,etc. Late 20's or early 30's
Tiffany-Scandalous Preganant Girl, Caucasian or any ethnicity
Stacy- Groupie Girls,Sexy, Attractive Model Types. Principal
Kelly- Groupie Girl, Sexy, Attractive Model Type. Principal
Groupie Girls.(2) Young Adult, Sexy, Attractive Model Type Featured
Isaiah- Kyra's Good Male Friend, African American Tall Handsome, Articulate, Fit, Lead.
Judge. Caucasian Male
Attorney- 1 Older Caucasian Male,
Attorney- 1 Caucasian male late 20's, 30's,
Attorney- 1 Caucasian Female- late 20's, 30's 40's
Jury Members (12) Any ethnicity, Any Gender. Featured

Email headshot & resume along with contact info to BeAboutIt@ArnitaWilliams.com

Got a house you're not using for a few weeks?

Filmmaker Bryan Foshee is looking for a house to shoot in for a month starting in mid July or early August. Ideally, it would be empty so actors could be housed there at night and shoot during the day. The project is low-budget, so this is a support-the-arts endeavor for the landlord, not a windfall opportunity. Contact Foshee at 674.8369 or b@brassmask.com

Catch a Running Gag

Who: Running Gag Improv
When: Wednesday, 21 June 2006 from 8-9pm
Where: Jack Robinson Photo Gallery, 44 Huling Avenue (between Front
Street and South Main Street)
Admission: $5
Refreshments available for a suggested donation

Come support Memphis' newest improv group, Running Gag, a division of the Memphis Theatre Project, in its second performance after a successful debut before Memphis audiences last week.

Running Gag was formed in May 2006 as an addition to the landscape of local improv groups because of the growing audience for improv.

This is a great group of collegians and 20-somethings with a love of improv and irreverence.

They were weaned on "Whose Line Is It Anyway," "The Upright Citizen's Brigade" and "Kids In the Hall."

Individually, they have graced the stages at White Station High School, Lausanne Collegiate School, Theatre Memphis, Rhodes College, Christian Brothers High School, St. Agnes Academy, St. George's High School, Morgan Woods Theatre, West Tennessee Community College, the University of the South, University of Southern Mississippi, Opera Memphis, Little Theatre of Crittenden County and University of Memphis Opera.

Come see Ashley, Davis, Josh, Ranetta, Robert and Shaleen ... Improv by people you may actually know.

'Heist' auditions today

Reminder about auditions this afternoon for "Heist," which will begin filming in the Memphis area at the end of July through August.

Heist is a plan-gone-awry crime caper comedy, set to be directed by Waheed AlQawasmi, who has a flair for creating something stylish. Heist promises to be an imaginative story with elements from recently influential genre staples like "Pulp Fiction," & "Trainspotting," the fast pace energy and humor from films such as Snatch, and combines the cleverness in storytelling of "The Usual Suspects."

An open call for actors and extras will be held at The Complex (702 Madison Ave, Memphis TN 38103) from 4pm to 10pm on Tuesday, June 20th. We are looking for people of all ages and ethnicities to portray a wide variety of characters in the movie, including Middle Eastern Americans, African American, and people that have strong Irish and Scottish Accents. No prior experience necessary.

Please drop by to fill out your forms anytime during the day. The casting department will be there to answer any questions you have. This open call will be quick and informative. Casting Director Nicholas Ross has said that the hardest people to find are adult males that can work one or two days during the week and that the production requires a lot of these for the film. If you are interested in participating in this project, please plan to attend the open call. Actors will be called in later for private auditions.

General Contact: Heistcasting@wafilms.com

Monday, June 19, 2006

Acting class with Lisa Lax

Confirm with Lisa if you're coming -- it's getting full. She's at actlink@aol.com
Tonight's class is at 174 Leif Cv. Cordova, TN 38018
Monday 7pm-9pm
Bring a headshot.

Friday, June 16, 2006

As happy as a pig in film


Li'l Film Fest 2 is tomorrow at 2pm at the MeDiA Co-op (1000 S. Cooper in Midtown) "It's BBQ y'all" We will be giving the winner $200 + a really cool trophy!! So, here's the lineup: "The Nine Circles of BBQ Hell" Brett Hanover "Christopher Lloyd's" Erik Morrison "Good Slaw and Good Pork" Jon W. Sparks "Lunch" Nick Ross "The Champ" David Thompson "Pig in a Poke" Morgan Jon Fox and Brett Hanover "The Doctrine and Aesthetics of Pig-Husbandry" Adam and Melissa Remsen "Divine Intervention" Christopher Reyes "Plenty for Days" Eric Swartz "The Guys Who Make the Movie Poster but Never Finish the Script" Valibus "Barb-e-que" Sarah Fleming "What It's All About" Tammy Marqueerius The Fest will be followed by an after Party thanks to Eric Swartz

Beifuss on Li'l Film Fest 2 and "Dollars and Signs"

John Beifuss waxes eloquent about the indie scene in today's Playbook. Here are excerpts:


Independent filmmaking in Memphis comes under the spotlight again this weekend with the eagerly awaited "Li'l Film Fest 2," a mini-festival devoted to short films about barbecue, and screenings of "Dollars and Signs," the debut feature film by Brandon Hutchinson, co-founder of the influential Memphis Digital Arts Co-operative (MeDiA Co-op).

"Dollars and Signs" will be screened twice. Tonight's show is at 8 p.m. at the new Hattiloo Theatre at 654 Marshall; it will be followed by live music from Ron Franklin and the Iron Mic Coalition, who contributed to the film's soundtrack. Admission is $15 at the door or $12 in advance by e-mailing an RSVP to hellokidprojects @yahoo.com.

The movie also will be screened outdoors at 8 p.m. Saturday behind the "2 Chicks and a Broom" cleaning service headquarters at 885 S. Cooper. Admission is $10. Post-movie music will be provided by the Iron Mic Coalition and Valerie June, who also appears on the soundtrack.

"Li'l Film Fest 2," meanwhile, takes place at 2 p.m. Saturday at the MeDiA Co-op theater at First Congregational Church, 1000 S. Cooper. Admission is free. The event was organized by Live from Memphis, a Web site devoted to the local arts, especially film and music.

The popular first Li'l Film Fest, held in March, required participating filmmakers to use footage of the demolition of Baptist Hospital in their entries. This time, moviemakers were asked to produce films about one of Memphis' most popular products, barbecue.

Twelve films were accepted by the Live from Memphis judges, ranging in length from 74 seconds to under five minutes and in attitude from amused to disgusted (vegetarian protest films are included). All the shorts are amusing and several are outstanding, including the angry and primitively animated "Pig in a Poke" by Morgan Jon Fox and Brett Hanover, which pokes fun at such local celebrities as Joe Birch and Craig Brewer before it eviscerates the story's villain, Condoleezza Rice; the faux French "Doctrine and Aesthetics of Pig Husbandry" by Adam and Melissa Remsen, which recommends exposing juicy growing piglets to Baudelaire and Mondrian; and Hanover's "The Nine Circles of BBQ Hell" and Tammy Marqueerius' "What It's All About," which follow in the gory cloven hoofsteps of Georges Franju's 1949 documentary "Blood of the Beasts."

Thursday, June 15, 2006

Flicks at the Brooks

Memphis Brooks Museum of Art will screen the film Four Eyed Monster on Tuesday, June 27 at 7:00 p.m. The film is the second installment in a series of monthly screenings featuring top films from major festivals around the world that have yet to find a theatrical distributor.

Four Eyed Monster is the story of one couple's attempt to re-invent modern romance. Arin and Susan's creative approach to interaction gets out of control as they try to build a serious relationship while not devolving into the "four eyed monster" that other couples around them have become. Called "an Annie Hall for the 25 year old set," Four Eyed Monster follows the two creative and determined hipsters through their relationship as they try to avoid mediocrity.

Audience members will have the opportunity to rate the film after Tuesday's screening. These results will be combined with those of the other participating venues to determine the winning film at the end of the series in November.

Tickets are $5 for Brooks members and $7 for non-members and may be purchased on the day of the screenings. For more information, call 901-544-6208.

'Love of Angels' auditions

There will be two more audition dates for the Film "The love of angels" on July 1st and on the 15th. They will be at the media co-op, 1000 S. Cooper, between 10am-2pm. For more info: timmscalitapresents.blogspot.com

Wednesday, June 14, 2006

My Blueberry Nights

The imdb.com site is here. Wikipedia has this on it:

My Blueberry Nights is a yet-to-be-made film directed by Wong Kar Wai. It is in pre-production, and will most likely start shooting in June 2006 and be made before the long-in-development The Lady From Shanghai. It is supposed to be Wong's first English language film, and will star Norah Jones, Rachel Weisz, Jude Law and Natalie Portman. Participation of Kevin Spacey and Ed Harris is also expected. Although it had been rumoured to be a film concentrating around the events of the Hurricane Katrina, Wong has denied this and says it will be a road movie, instead. Evidence of this is loosely based around his original short film, which follows the character Norah Jones will portray as she works in several restaurant settings and learns of the trials and tribulations of true love. Memphis, Tennessee is being considered as a possible shooting location with a popular local BBQ and soul food restaurant being considered.


Remember that Wikipedia is not official and highly susceptible to error. Not that this isn't interesting.

Attendance is mandatory -- it's the slaw!


On Saturday, June 17 at 2 p.m. at the MeDiA Co-op, you will see the work of some of the finest filmmakers in Memphis, people who I respect and admire. I ask you to come, view their creations, and vote for me instead.

Tuesday, June 13, 2006

About that film company eyeing Memphis...

Nobody in the negotiations are so much as hinting which "large film company" is looking to establish a presence in Memphis (see item below). The Regional Chamber cites privacy and confidentiality during the decision-making process. Memphis Music Foundation president Rey Flemings won't say who it is or when it's expected to happen.

So what is one to do but speculate?

One thing the area could sure use is a dedicated sound stage. And enough equipment so that we wouldn't need to keep trucking it in when major projects locate here. It would also be very good indeed to have some programming originate from around here. I hear the hallelujahs from you brethren, I surely do.

Now we're not privy to the deal-making, so all we can go on is a little history. Last year, you'll remember Craig Brewer's "Black Snake Moan" got a deal to use The Pyramid as a soundstage, a deal that involved the city and county and the Memphis and Shelby County Film and Television Commission.

Back in August, John Beifuss of The Commercial Appeal reported on the arrangement. Included in his story was this:
"We're trying to build a film community in Memphis, so this act of generosity by the city, the county and the Film Commission hopefully will be repaid many times by the films we make here and the filmmakers we attract here by our example," Stephanie Allain - producer of "Black Snake Moan" and "Hustle & Flow" - said ... "We want to shed light on Memphis as a place to work and create, and share that with the world."

Allain and Brewer recently formalized their partnership by forming a new company, Southern Cross the Dog, which has entered into a two-year deal to develop projects for Paramount.

Named for a line in W.C. Handy's "Yellow Dog Blues" that refers to the Mississippi crossing of the Southern and Yazoo railways, Southern Cross the Dog hopes to develop an extensive slate of local projects, including a television series set in Memphis, Brewer said. The company will maintain offices in Memphis and Los Angeles.

... Shelby County Mayor A C Wharton said the deal can only benefit The Pyramid, which has been underutilized since [the] opening of FedExForum.

Wharton said the glamor of a film production could attract other investors to The Pyramid, which is owned equally by the city and county. Asked about its future as a soundstage, he said: "I would love to see it as Paramount East."

The Pyramid also offers offices, dressing rooms and catering facilities.
Now, there aren't that many "large film companies," and the connections here to Paramount are certainly strong. Southern Cross the Dog has supposedly moved into new offices on South Main. And if the intentions of the movers and shakers last year are still in place, then Paramount just might be the one. That's just based on some history. Maybe it's Disney or Universal. But if past is prologue ...

"Eat" this

Check out the trailer for "Eat" at Oddly Buoyant's MySpace site.

Yummy.

LaVita -- a grandmama?

Local actor LaVita Brooks is one of the principal actors in “KATRINA’S WAKE” (a working title) ©2006 by kat scratch films, LLC. The film recently finished shooting and is in post-production.

It's the fictional story of family who seeks refuge in their attic from the rising flood waters of Hurricane Katrina. No food. No water. No escape. And, unfortunately, no one knows they’re there.


Written/Produced/Directed by Kathilynn Phillips
Co-Produced by Jeremy Nocon & Austin Haley (Little Bo Productions)
Executive Producer - Eric Springman

To add unparalleled realism to the film, it was shot over three days in actual old attic (though not in a home) in Tupelo, Mississippi. The cast was also issued only one set of clothing for wardrobe and had to wear the same clothes throughout filming. Just as a real family that might be trapped in an attic during the flood might experience, the cast was hosed down and remained wet for a large part of the first day of filming. The camera rolled for two more days, just short of the time lapse that is actually represented in the script. Filming had to be confined to morning and night schedules, however, with frequent breaks and long mid-day shutdowns in order to avoid heat exhaustion by cast and crew. Still, the temperatures averaged 115°F and hit as high as 118°F during the filming sessions.

The approximately half hour movie was shot in high definition 720/24PN using the New Panasonic DVCPro HD HVX200 camcorder. More extraordinarily, however, no tape media was used to store the footage. All recording was to Panasonic P2 digital data cards and downloaded to a portable “P2 Store” hard drive on set. The stored digital footage was then transported back to Pennsylvania and transferred to kat scratch films nonlinear HD editing suite where it is currently being processed.

One of the principal actors, LaVita Brooks, is from Memphis and has theatre, film and television experience. Though she is only in her early thirties, she portrayed “Grandmama” with such realism that the cast quickly began treating her as such even off set.

Film company eyes Memphis

Here are excerpts from a June 8 story by David Williams in The Commercial Appeal:

A large film company is negotiating to open a regional headquarters in Memphis and spend $250 million on productions over five years, according to Memphis Music Foundation president Rey Flemings.

He wouldn't identify the company, but such a move would be helped by recent film-related state legislation.

The legislation provides a rebate of 15 percent of in-state company production spending, if certain qualifications on the company and its spending are met.

Memphis and Shelby County Film & Television commissioner Linn Sitler said, "The relocation of a major film company would be phenomenal. This would take us from a level of looking to recruit pictures on an individual basis, to an unbelievable place where the company would be here turning out pictures one after another."

Film legislation also included a $10 million appropriation for incentives for movie and TV productions in the state.

Sitler said the film legislation was "the most important thing that our commission and I have ever been involved in." She said it was a team effort whose numerous members included the foundation and Memphis Mayor Willie Herenton's office.

"Fraternity Massacre At Hell Island" premieres June 29

"Fraternity Massacre At Hell Island" new indie film to premier June 29

A new Memphis movie is set to premier on June 29 at Studio on the Square. Call it a comedy with Blood or a B Horror movie; its a fun ride as pledge Jack Jones must battle homophobia and a killer Clown during Hell Night for his Fraternity. Brothers and pledges are learning quickly that things are amiss at the haunted island. The bodies start to stack up and the the killer clown
will stop at nothing to kill off the fraternity. Meanwhile, four college students learn what happens when you trust the wrong leaders and become overly patriotic. (sp?)

A huge cast that includes Tyler Farrell, Billie Worley, Kaleo Quenzer, Corie Ventura, Sarah Ewell and Michael Gravois.

Director of Photography/Editor: Ryan Parker, Written and directed by Mark Jones

**Tickets are on sale now at Burke's Book Store. Cost $5.
Show times are 7 and 9 on June 29. Tickets are selling fast.

Audition June 24 for "Let's Ride"

Memphian Joseph Adams is holding an audition for cast in the movie "Let's Ride," a feature about the annual Freaknik bash in Atlanta. Audition is June 24 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Peabody Place, 2nd floor. Actors should bring headshots if they have em.

No charge for the audition. Adams does have the web site u-meinc.com, that he will charge talent to be listed on that he intends to be seen by casting people, etc. But that's not a prerequisite for this audition.

These people are also looking for a musical act. Demos can be sent in, 10 will be selected and will perform at the Plush Club. One will be chosen to be on the soundtrack.

Number for more info on both is 877 367-7309, a recording that essentially has this info, including the address musicians can send their demos to.

Local talent in S.C. film

Ralph Hatley, who has appeared in "Rookie Bookie," "Divine Manipulation of the Threads" and several other productions, has some family involved in a South Carolina production.

Glenn Hopper and Adam Hatley (Ralph's nephew and son) have written and are producing “The Hanged Man”, a feature film. They have raised a $75,000 budget and begin shooting in South Carolina late next week through 7/3. Adam and Ralph have principal roles in the film. It was written by Glenn (a former Memphian as well). Shooting will last four weeks. Most of the people both in front of the camera and behind the camera are “Hollywood” people, from Paramount who are on seasonal hiatus who have agreed to lend both their talents and connections to the success of this independent film.

=====

Camera Rolls on The Hanged Man this month

Starbox Pictures begins production on their first feature The Hanged Man in Travelers Rest, South Carolina on June 19.

An edgy and haunting tale, The Hanged Man, explores the darker undercurrents of contemporary American life through the eyes of a group of social misfits, who meet online in an Internet chat room. At the urging of their mysterious leader, whom they only know by the screen name "Dwarfstar," they sign a suicide pact and meet in person for the first time on what is to be their last night on earth.

Written by Glenn Hopper, The Hanged Man features an ensemble cast helmed by director and co-writer Neil Weiss. The film is the feature debut for Weiss, who directed the short films ("You're Own Best Enemy;" "Fugue;" and "Leah;" currently in post production.) Weiss is a UCLA film school graduate, and founder of the critically acclaimed Cactus Theater in Chicago. He was a finalist in the 2002 Sundance Screenwriting competition with his screenplay "Modoc."

The film stars Shanola Hampton ("Related," "The Mostly Unfabulous Social Life of Ethan Green," and "Electra Woman and Dyna Girl"), Cliff Weissman ("CSI: NY," "24," "The Shield," "Cold Case," and "Don Juan DeMarco"), TJ Jones, Adam Hatley, Brandon Gibson, Robbyn Leigh, and Ralph Hatley.

Patti Lee ("Bernie Mac," "Pleasantville," and "Maid of Honor") is the Director of Photography.

Starbox Pictures was formed in 2005 by Executive Producers Glenn Hopper of Simpsonville and Adam Hatley, who believe they've found a formula for success outside of the "Big Hollywood" system.

"This film is the culmination of a lifelong dream of ours," Hopper said of the project, which he is co-producing with Hatley, his cousin. "We've both been at this for a long time, and we decided last year that we weren't going to wait for Hollywood to come to us.

We were going to create the best film we could and take it to Hollywood," Hopper said.

Hopper, a former journalist, and Hatley, an actor living in Los Angeles, came up with the idea for the film shortly after 9/11, which they consider a defining moment for their generation. "The Baby Boomers had Easy Ride, The Big Chill, and countless other films that captured the zeitgeist of their generation, while we were at a loss to come up with a film that our generation (Generation X) could really identify with in the past 20 years," Hopper said, adding "The last film we could think of that fit that mold was The Breakfast Club, and that was 20 years ago now."

Hopper notes, however, that in order to reach out to his generation, he'd have to go beyond a blatant melodrama and come up with a more creative way to deliver his message. The end result is "The Hanged Man," which Hopper describes as a supernatural thriller that is part drama, part comedy.

"We're describing it as 'Breakfast Club meets The Twilight Zone,' " he said.

For More Information: www.boxofstars.com

Arkansas film casting

WAR EAGLE Open Call Little Rock

Open Casting Call in Little Rock, AR for Upcoming Feature Film WAR EAGLE to be shot in Northwest Arkansas.

Golden Globe and Emmy Award winner Brian Dennehy to star in coming-of-age story set and filmed in small town Arkansas.

What: An open casting call will be held in Little Rock, AR on Saturday, June 17 to cast several featured roles in the upcoming Independent Feature Film WAR EAGLE, starring Golden Globe and Emmy Award winning actor Brian Dennehy. The story of two friends forced to examine their life-long friendship after high school graduation points them in very different directions. Inspired by a true story, this film is a celebration of loyalty, family and small town life.

Who: Casting directors will be looking for several actors of all ages and ethnicities to populate the community of War Eagle: a 'hot mom'; a diner waitress; a University of Memphis baseball scout and a coach; an African-American preacher; a Blanchard Springs tour guide and a ticket seller; an obsessive-compulsive wood-chopping 13-year-old, and a high school bully. There are also speaking roles for high school baseball players, coaches, and umpires. Casting directors are very interested in finding people who actually play, coach, or umpire baseball. Those who do so, at any level, are strongly encouraged to audition.

When: Saturday, June 17, 10:00 am-4:00 pm. Auditionees can arrive any time during that timeframe.

Where: North Little Rock Chamber of Commerce 100 Main Street (corner of Washington & Main Street) North Little Rock, AR 72114.

More Info: Anyone interested in auditioning for WAR EAGLE should bring a current photo. Shooting for the movie will take place in Northwest Arkansas for five weeks, beginning on or about July 27.

Contact: Kelly Gillespie 501-834-0034

wareaglelocalcasting@yahoo.com

"Tricks" casting

Filmmaker Deaara Lewis is casting for the role of Allen for her film "Tricks."

Allen is an attractive, physically fit, bi-sexual African-American male and who has given his ex-girlfriend HIV. Theatre or film experience is helpful. It is a extremely dramatic role and there is deferred pay.

She's also trying to cast male and female extras at a party scene. These are smaller, non-paying roles.

Anyone interested email headshots and resumes:
DeAara Lewis: lewisgroup1212@gmail.com and/or
Rod Pitts: pittstopproductions@hotmail.com

Serious replies only

New improv comedy group -- Wednesday

Who: The Running Gag Improv Group
When: Wednesday, 14 June 2006 from 8-9pm (THIS WEEK)
Where: Jack Robinson Photo Gallery, 44 Huling Avenue (between Front
Street and South Main Street)
Admission: $5

Come support Memphis' newest improv group, The Running Gag, a
division of the Memphis Theatre Project, in its public debut on
Wednesday evening.

The Running Gag was formed a little less than two weeks ago as an
addition to the landscape of local improv groups because of the
growing audience for improv.

This is a great group of collegians and 20-somethings with a love of
improv and irreverence.

They were weaned on "Whose Line Is It Anyway," "The Upright
Citizen's Brigade" and "Kids In the Hall."

Individually, they have graced the stages at White Station High
School, Lausanne Collegiate School, Theatre Memphis, Rhodes College,
Christian Brothers High School, West Tennessee Community College and
the University of the South, University of Southern Mississippi,
Opera Memphis, Little Theatre of Crittenden County and University of
Memphis Opera.

Come see Drew, Dustin, Dylan, Davis, Ranetta, Shaleen, Josh, Holly
and Ashley as they debut with The Running Gag.

Casting for SAG film "My Blueberry Night"

From Lisa Lax at actlink@aol.com:

I will be casting locally for the movie, "My Blueberry Night" a love story with Norah Jones, Jude Law, Natalie Portman, Rachel Weisz, Kevin Spacey, and Ed Harris.

1st of all- I need alot of really interesting character faces.

2ndly- I will need stand-ins for the following:

Norah Jones-5'1"-height
Rachel Weisz-5'7"
Jude Law-5'11"
Natalie Portman-5'4"

Please submit your headshot via email if you fit the description

Shoot starts the middle of July- This is a SAG film directed by Wong Kar-Wai

"Dollars and Signs" screenings (update)

“Dollars & Signs” is a low-budget independent film written and directed by Brandon Hutchinson, starring Phil Darius Wallace, Morgan Jon Fox, Timothy Morton and Lisa Sanchez. There are additional performances from Ekundayo Bandele, Brian Mott, Barbara Cook-Overton, Helen Bowman, Eileen Townsend, Genny Strain (the director's MeeMaw), and Joanna Isom (the producer's mail lady).

“Dollars & Signs” is a journey through Memphis music, old and new. Hip-hop producer and emcee Fathom 9 and the traditional Renaissance man Ron Franklin provided the bulk of the score. Harlan T. Bobo (currently touring in Europe), Vending Machine, The Iron Mic Coalition, The Tunnel Clones and Valerie June are also showcased.

“Dollars & Signs” is a story about three men who are discovering their own way. One happens to be a black gentleman. The other two happen to be white. One happens to own a small business. The other two happen to hate business. One happens to have a wife and three children. The other two happen to share an apartment with a computer and a fish. All three feel something brewing below the surface. All three live in Memphis, TN. What do you think happens?

FRIDAY NIGHT PREMIERE
Film Screening/ Live Music from the movie/ Cast and Crew Q & A
@ Hatiloo Black Repertory Theater
8pm
654 Marshall Ave.
$12 RSVP / $15 @ door. Limited seating.
RSVP to hellokidprojects@yahoo.com

SATURDAY NIGHT OUTDOOR SCREENING
Film Screening / Live Music / Drinks
@ 2 Chicks & a Broom
8pm
885 S. Cooper
$10 @ door

For more information email: Hellokidprojects@yahoo.com or call 312-330-4969

“Dollars & Signs” will also be preceded by a trailer for another local feature, “EAT”.
“EAT” was written, directed & produced in Memphis by the mad crew over at Oddly Buoyant Productions-- the winners of Indie Memphis’ 2004 Best Hometowner Feature Award for “Automusik Can Do No Wrong”.

(Thanks to LiveFromMemphis.com)

"Act One" on DVD


Old School Pictures is excited to announce the release of "Act One" on DVD. We had 1,000 copies replicated and are now selling them off our website (www.oldschoolpictures.net) through a PayPal link for $15/each, which includes shipping and handling. We've gone all out for this disc to give people a great deal; here are the extra features:

- 16 x 9 enhanced widescreen version of the film
- Motion menus
- Dolby Digital 2.0
- Scene Selection
- Feature Commentary with director Brad Ellis and writer/actor Allen Gardner
- Feature Commentary with lighting designer John Moore, producer Mark Norris, and director of photography Matt Weatherly
- ‘One More Take’ – Behind the Scenes of Act One, a 30 minute featurette
- Deleted Scenes with optional director commentary
- Audition Reel
- Outtake Reel
- Photo Slideshow with commentary by on-set photographer Michael Norris
- News Channel 3 “Live at 9” interview with Mark Norris and Matt Weatherly
- News Channel 3 “Live at 9” interview with Brad Ellis and Allen Gardner
- Time Warner TV spots
- Q107.5 Radio Interview with Brad Ellis
- Fox 13 Movie Review by Film Commissioner Linn Sitler

We were hoping you could, perhaps, post an announcement on your memphis.cool.movies blog to let the general public know. It would certainly help us sell some of these things!!

I've attached our official press release should you want to post it. Revise, shorten...whatever...I guess the most important thing is to direct people to our website so they can make a purchase off PayPal.

Please let me know what you think and thanks for all of your support!

Brad Ellis
Director, Old School Pictures
www.oldschoolpictures.net

Monday, June 12, 2006

Wednesday: Free movies!

We have a special Indie Memphis Micro Cinema Club (IMMCC) program this month!

The founder and tireless volunteer curator of IMMCC, Will O’Loughlen, is closing his tenure with this program and we are holding our annual IMMCC cook out in his honor. Please join us at Power House, 45 GE Patterson (between Main & Front streets) at 6:30 for the cook out. The movies will begin at 7:30 and this month all films featured are directed by or star our good friend Will. Please join us to congratulate and thank Will for all of his time and energy in building what is arguably one of the best programs in Memphis, Indie Memphis Micro Cinema Club!

Ad Man
Hank is a small town guy with big city dreams. Passionate about advertising he decides to move to the big city and make his mark. He hits the streets to drum up new business and eventually starts his own firm training a pack of newcomers to be successful in advertising. 11 minutes, starring Will O’Loughlen.

Tea and Cigars
Is it the missing chapter from Jim Jarmusch's conversational film "Coffee and Cigarettes"? Not exactly! "Tea & Cigars" imitates the style and tone of the original as it finds two men discussing their concern for the lack of good service in this country. 8 minutes,
directed by Will O’Loughlen.

Small Timers
Six Memphis filmmakers set out to produce an independent feature film called "The Big Muddy" with no-budget and minimal resources. The crew tries all kinds of approaches to fundraising, including panhandling in the streets of Memphis only to encounter more problems in the actual production of the film and even more trying to secure distribution. An exploration into the world of no-budget, indie filmmaking. 40 minutes, directed by Will O’Loughlen.

Summer of Youth
A docu-film about the fans of the New York rock combo, Sonic Youth. Sonic Youth have been an institution in the American underground rock scene for more than 20 years. The band has legions of fans around the world and has recorded countless albums over the years. Summer of Youth is road movie, a concert film, and finally a profile of some of the most loyal fans in music. 30 minutes, directed by Will O’Loughlen.


Admission is always free, so is the popcorn!
Power House, 45 G.E. Patterson, between Main & Front Streets in the South Main Arts District

Operation Entertainment is an initiative aimed at collecting DVDs for soldiers stationed in Iraq and Afghanistan. Operation Entertainment will continue until our troops return home.

New and used DVDs (in good condition) can be donated at:
Power House, 45 G.E. Patterson during the Indie Memphis Micro Cinema Club, or at The Mail Center, 1910 Madison Avenue.

DVDs and tax-deductible donations can be mailed to:
Indie Memphis, 1910 Madison Avenue, PMB 632 Memphis, TN 38104

Delta Axis receives generous support for Indie Memphis programs from the Greater Memphis Arts Council, Tennessee Arts Commission, and Hohenberg Foundation.
For more information, please contact Tracy Lauritzen Wright, Executive Director, tracy@deltaaxis.org, 494-6543.

Sunday, June 11, 2006

Auditions: Waheed wants you...

A motion picture titled Heist will begin filming in the Memphis area at the end of July thru August.

Heist is a plan-gone-awry crime caper comedy, set to be directed by Waheed AlQawasmi, who has a flair for creating something stylish. Heist promises to be an imaginative story with elements from recently influential genre staples like "Pulp Fiction," & "Trainspotting," the fast pace energy and humor from films such as Snatch, and combines the cleverness in storytelling of "The Usual Suspects."

An open call for actors and extras will be held at The Complex (702 Madison Ave, Memphis TN 38103) from 4pm to 10pm on Tuesday, June 20th. We are looking for people of all ages and ethnicities to portray a wide variety of characters in the movie, including Middle Eastern Americans, African American, and people that have strong Irish and Scottish Accents. No prior experience necessary.

Please drop by to fill out your forms anytime during the day. The casting department will be there to answer any questions you have. This open call will be quick and informative. Casting Director Nicholas Ross has said that the hardest people to find are adult males that can work one or two days during the week and that the production requires a lot of these for the film. If you are interested in participating in this project, please plan to attend the open call. Actors will be called in later for private auditions.

General Contact: Heistcasting@wafilms.com

Friday, June 09, 2006

LI’L FILM FEST 2 -- Shameless self promotion

LI’L FILM FEST 2


Live From Memphis™ Presents LI’L FILM FEST 2: it’s BBQ ya’ll! A theme-based, mini-festival – the second one ever.

Live From Memphis™ is announcing round 2 of its quarterly film fest “Li’l Film Fest” to take place on June 17, 2006 at 2pm. Sponsored by Churchill Studios HD Production and Post, the Festival will be held at the Memphis Digital Arts Co-operative (1000 S. Cooper Memphis, TN 38104).


The following is a list of accepted films and filmmakers:


"The Nine Circles of BBQ Hell" Brett Hanover
"Christopher Lloyd’s" Erik Morrison

"Good Slaw and Good Pork" Jon W. Sparks
"Lunch" Nick Ross
"The Champ" David Thompson
"Pig in a Poke" Morgan Jon Fox and Brett Hanover
"The Doctrine and Aesthetics of Pig-Husbandry" Adam and Melissa Remsen
"Divine Intervention" Christopher Reyes
"Plenty for Days" Eric Swartz

"The Guys Who Make the Movie Poster but Never Finish the Script" Valibus
"Barb-e-que" Sarah Fleming

"What It’s All About" Tammy Marqueerius


The event is free and open to the public; Live From Memphis and the MeDiA Co-op will be accepting donations. Support Local Filmmakers!

For more information about the LI’L FILM FEST go here or call: (901) 523-9763.
Li’l Film Fest is a new kind of festival, highlighting local talent while showcasing interesting happenings around town.

Here’s how the festival works: Every 3 months LFM staff members announce a new theme to the filmmaking community. Filmmakers then put their own unique spin on producing a short film.
The theme for the second Li’l Film Fest is barbecue, meaning that each film submission must somehow relate to barbecue. The winner(s) will be awarded a $200 cash prize and will also be guaranteed a spot in the next Indie Memphis Film Festival. Additionally, the li'l films must not exceed 5 minutes in length.

Live From Memphis™ is a grassroots organization representing Memphis music, film and the arts. We support and promote local musicians, filmmakers, artists, and industry professionals who are the lifeblood of the Memphis creative scene. It is our goal to connect creatives, grow opportunities, and gain exposure for our creative culture.

Tuesday, June 06, 2006

Monday, June 05, 2006

Molli Benson acting class

LA-based coach Molli Benson will be in Memphis June 23, 24, & 25 for another of her intense acting workshops. Cost is $225 for all three days, an immersion in the craft that could change your acting life.
Her take-no-prisoners approach is not for everyone. But she is fully dedicated to the craft and to getting you to make the most of it. A good acting education includes several approaches from different teachers and methods. You then take what works best for you.
I snagged my best role yet within a month of taking Molli's course. Your results may differ, but you won't know until you try.
Email Molli at: mollibenson@aol.com. Her web site is: http://www.mollibensonproductions.com/

Check it out.

MeDiA Co-op First Tuesday Filmmaking Workshop

MeDiA Co-op First Tuesday Filmmaking Workshop Series-JUNE

* Tuesday, June 6, 7:30pm donations accepted.


Chris McCoy and Laura Hocking of Oddly Buoyant Productions(Automusik Can Do No Wrong) will discuss their new work-in-progress "Eat" with the Media Co-op. Among the topics for discussion will be the writing process, casting and rehearsals, pre-production planning, shooting and editing of their latest project, and those they've worked on previously. Please join us for an amazing evening with these amazing individuals, winners of Indie Memphis' 2004 Best Hometowner Feature award, and leaders of the pack in throwing the best filmmaker parties around town. We'll also be signing up new members at the co-op for use of equipment, and space.

Friday, June 02, 2006

Casting call

For two movies, today (Saturday) at the MeDiA Co-op. 10 a.m., be there.

Thursday, June 01, 2006

Micro Cinema Club

Indie Memphis Presents Micro Cinema Club #19 on Wednesday, June 14, at 7:30 p.m. at Power House

Indie Memphis Micro Cinema Club (IMMCC) is a monthly program featuring short films from around the world. In June, IMMCC presents a line up of short films directed by or starring IMMCC Curator, Will O’Loughlen. O’Loughlen started IMMCC in November 2004 and has been the tireless volunteer curator of the program since its inception. This program celebrates O’Loughlen’s own filmmaking, as a thank you for his hard work in bringing so many filmmakers to the attention of Memphis audiences through IMMCC.

Ad Man
Hank is a small town guy with big city dreams. Passionate about advertising he decides to move to the big city and make his mark. He hits the streets to drum up new business and eventually starts his own firm training a pack of newcomers to be successful in advertising. 11 minutes, starring Will O’Loughlen.

Tea and Cigars
Is it the missing chapter from Jim Jarmusch's conversational film "Coffee and Cigarettes"? Not exactly! "Tea & Cigars" imitates the style and tone of the original as it finds two men discussing their concern for the lack of good service in this country. 8 minutes, directed by Will O’Loughlen.

Small Timers
Six Memphis filmmakers set out to produce an independent feature film called "The Big Muddy" with no-budget and minimal resources. The crew tries all kinds of approaches to fundraising, including panhandling in the streets of Memphis only to encounter more problems in the actual production of the film and even more trying to secure distribution. An exploration into the world of no-budget, indie filmmaking. 40 minutes, directed by Will O’Loughlen.

Summer of Youth
A docu-film about the fans of the New York rock combo, Sonic Youth. Sonic Youth have been an institution in the American underground rock scene for more than 20 years. The band has legions of fans around the world and has recorded countless albums over the years. Summer of Youth is road movie, a concert film, and finally a profile of some of the most loyal fans in music. 30 minutes, directed by Will O’Loughlen.


Admission is always free, so is the popcorn!
Power House, 45 G.E. Patterson, between Main & Front Streets in the South Main Arts District

Operation Entertainment is an initiative aimed at collecting DVDs for soldiers stationed in Iraq and Afghanistan. Operation Entertainment will continue until our troops return home.

New and used DVDs (in good condition) can be donated at:
Power House, 45 G.E. Patterson during the Indie Memphis Micro Cinema Club, or at The Mail Center, 1910 Madison Avenue.

DVDs and tax-deductible donations can be mailed to:
Indie Memphis, 1910 Madison Avenue, PMB 632 Memphis, TN 38104