Move along now -- this way to the egress

Same blog, new name. Go here for local film stuff.

I'll buy your breakfast

But if you want to find out how, go to my newly named site: memphiscoolmovies.blogspot.com

Acting class with Darius Wallace

ACTING FOR FILM WITH DARIUS WALLACE

Come join the Actors Community, Tuesday, October 6th, at Caritas Village from 6:30p to 8:30p to begin work on acting for film. We will be preparing to work with writer, director, and actor; Darius Wallace.

Darius Wallace attended Interlochen Arts Academy where he studied theatrical arts. He then attended SUNY Purchase Theatre Arts School in New York, a school of professional theatre. He wrote and produced a one-manshow on the life of Martin Luther King, Malcolm X and Fredrick Douglas. Darius has toured his one-man shows around the country through mobile productions which has been seen in forty-eight states. The show Malcolm X received rave reviews by the LA Times and LA Weekly. He recently finished shooting the movie Nothing But the Truth with Kate Beckinsdale and Matt Dillion. He is currently in post production on his own movie, 100 Lives, which he wrote, directed and produced.

Directions to Caritas Village are below.

For more information send e-mails to jenneanfarmer@gmail.com.

Directions to Caritas Village
Take Poplar Avenue westbound
Turn right on Merton Street
Turn left on Harvard Avenue
Caritas Village will be to the left
2509 Harvard Avenue

Theater auditions

Auditon Dates and info for upcoming Theatre Memphis performances. All auditions will take place at Theatre Memphis, 630 Perkins Extended @ Southern. If you have any questions, please contact Amy Salerno Hale at ashale@theatrememphis.org or 901-682-0518

Those wishing to audition for both Fallen Angels & Buffalo Gal are asked to audition on separate days.


Buffalo Gal
Written by A. R. Gurney
Directed by Jerry Chipman
performed on the Next Stage February 26 – March 14, 2010

Amanda is a glamorous Hollywood actress returning to her hometown of Buffalo, NY, to guest star in a production of Chekhov’s The Cherry Orchard. Memories and relationships are rekindled, new hope beckons – just as Hollywood calls with an offer will she or won’t she be able to refuse? A Mid-South Premiere.

Auditions:
Saturday, Oct 3 @ 1:45 PM
Sunday, Oct 4 @ 5:45 PM
Monday, Oct 5 @ 6:45 PM Callbacks by invitation only

o Auditions will be cold readings from the script.
Familiarity with the script is strongly advised for all auditionees.
o Scripts are available at the box office and may be rented for 3 days
with a refundable $5 deposit. Rental deposit is forfeited if materials
are returned after the due date.
o Current resume and headshot strongly advised.
o Roles Available: 3 Men, age 30-60 2 Women, age 18-60
o Rehearsals begin January 11, 2010.
o The role of Amanda will be played by Christina Wellford Scott;
all other roles are open. Character descriptions follow.

Available Roles:
Jackie – 30-50; a successful and respected director in the world of regional theatre; she is a personable, honest and confident woman - or as confident as anyone would be about to direct a Hollywood star in The Cherry Orchard.

Roy – 30-50; production stage manager for The Cherry Orchard; strong, reliable, professional and a friend and confidant to Jackie; he is dazzled by Amanda.

Debbie – late teens to 30; the theatre’s intern & assistant production stage manager; energetic, loves her job and is a walking encyclopedia of theatre knowledge.

James Johnson – 45-55; African-American; strong, assured actor, beautifully spoken; had a success the previous season playing Othello.

Dan Robbins – 50s; the “boy she left behind” - he’s now a successful, socially prominent dentist; he’s back on the scene and would like to be back in Amanda’s life.


All auditionees should fill out an audition form in advance and bring it with you to auditions, stapled to resume and headshot. An audition form may be downloaded from our website (www.theatrememphis.org).


Fallen Angels
Written by Noël Coward
Directed by John Rone
performed on the Lohrey Stage February 5 – 21, 2010

Noël Coward's Fallen Angels is a comedy about two married Englishwomen, Julia and Jane. Their husbands, Fred and Willy, take them for granted. Before getting married, each of the women had a romance with the same dashing Frenchman, Maurice. While the husbands are away on a golf trip, Julia and Jane find out that Maurice is about to pay them a visit. What will happen when they meet again?


Auditions:
Saturday, Oct 3 @ 1:45 PM
Sunday, Oct 4 @ 5:45 PM
Monday, Oct 5 @ 6:45 PM Callbacks by invitation only

o Auditions will be cold readings from the script.
Familiarity with the script is strongly advised for all auditionees.
o Scripts are available at the box office and may be rented for 3 days
with a refundable $5 deposit. Rental deposit is forfeited if materials
are returned after the due date.
o Current resume and headshot strongly advised.
o Roles Available: 3 Men, age 30-50 3 Women, age 30-50
o Rehearsals begin Monday, November 30, 2009.
o No roles have been precast.

All auditionees should fill out an audition form in advance and bring it with you to auditions, stapled to resume and headshot. An audition form may be downloaded from our website (www.theatrememphis.org).

Live From Memphis @ Indie Memphis

62 films and 4 Days of Live From Memphis at the 12th Annual Indie Memphis Film Festival!!

Live From Memphis has been partnering with Indie Memphis since 2004, and this year that relationship has truly blossomed. Indie Memphis has reached out to us and we're hanging on for the ride. Please join us in a celebration of this long-lasting relationship at the following showcases all happening at Indie Memphis!! Flipside Memphis (part 2), 5th Annual Music Video Showcase, Li'l Film Fest 11: Musical Horror, and the Best of Li'l Film Fest 2009. We're also throwing the official Indie Memphis opening weekend (aka The Music Video Showcase After-party). There's just so much to celebrate :)

Flipside Memphis (part 2)
Friday, October 9th, 5:30pm at Studio on the Square
Runtime approx. 50 minutes

Flipside Memphis is a project produced by Live From Memphis in partnership with the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau. Initially developed as accompanying material for Craig Brewer's "$5 Cover," Flipside explores and exposes the real-life Memphis, by showcasing cool local talent, unique hang-outs, and all the stuff that is the heart of our city. These fifteen all-new episodes are being presented on the big screen for the first time.

River Arts Fest
Metal Museum
Central BBQ
New Daisy Theatre
Memphis Pops Festival
Zombies Attack!
Folk Alliance
Neosoulville
Five in One
Rock For Love
Xanadu
Revolutions
Memphis Zoo
Paul Taylor
Live From Memphis


5th Annual Music Video Showcase
Saturday, October 10th, 7:30pm at Studio on the Square
Runtime approx. 80 minutes

First launched in 2005, the goal of MVS is to give both local filmmakers and musicians a chance to "rock the big screen!" All the entries in the Music Video Showcase are either by local directors or local musicians. Come support local music & local film all at once!

"One Good Reason" | Sore Eyes | dir. Sarah Fleming
"Frozen Fun" | The Clears | dir. Live From Memphis
"Monster" | Skillet | dir. Andy & John Irwin
"Todo Vuelve A Empezar" | Alfepado | dir. Angel Ortez
"Sun Never Goes" | The Perfect Vessels | dir. Graham Burks
"Hitler Lives" | Mudboy and Sons | dir. True Story Pictures
"16 Hours" | Ohio Briars | dir. Laura Jean Hocking
"America" | 8 Ball | dir. 8 Ball & Joe Gotti
"Tequila Salt" | Taco and Da Mofos | dir. Waheed AlQawasmi
"North Memphis Like Me" | Juicy J featuring Project pat and V Slash | dir. Nathan Black
"Sittin' On Blades" | Bigg Baby | dir. Jonathan Thomason
"Feels So Good" | Muck Sticky | dir. Nathan Black
"Somebody Better Tell 'Em" | Art of Raw | dir. Catina Johnson
"Begin" | Overjoid | dir. Eric Swartz
"Beauty Hunter" | Burning Star Core | dir. Tom Strodtbeck
"Good Luck" | Good Luck Dark Star | dir. Chad Schaffler
"Whatever You Like" | Taco and Da Mofos | dir. Waheed AlQawasmi
"Hero" | Skillet | dir. Andy & John Irwin
"Love" | Snowglobe | dir. Christopher Reyes
"Eighteen With A Bullet" | Fingers Like Saturn | dir. Mike McCarthy
"No Mistake" | Total Savage | dir. Brad Phelan


Li'l Film Fest 11: Musical Horror
Sunday, October 11th, 5:30pm at the Brooks Museum of Art
Runtime approx. 60 minutes

Live from Memphis' Li'l Film Fest is a quarterly, theme-based film festival, designed to encourage and inspire Memphis filmmakers while engaging the local audience in order to strengthen Memphis' artistic community. The theme of Lil'l Film Fest 11 is "Musical Horror," with each filmmaker required to include the secret ingredient: "orange." Each film in the program is 5 minutes or less.

The Tell-Tale Shitty Music directed by Kristopher Steward & Hunter Duesing
Fool Hearty directed by R. Jason Rawlings & Dave Godbout
You Better Behave directed by Geoffrey Brent Shrewsbury
Threnody directed by Jon W. Sparks
Thriller directed by Anupam 'Al' Lahiri
Spacecrane 2010 directed by HG Ray
Orange Delight directed by Donald Meyers
Unstable directed by Wesley Catlett & Justin Houston
Dark Fountain directed by Harmony Stewart
OCD directed by Joe Fragale
Frankenstein vs. Dracula: the Opera! directed by Adam Remsen


Best of Li'l Film Fest 2009
Wednesday, October 14th, 9pm at Studio on the Square
Runtime approx. 85 minutes

Li'l Film Fest is a quaterly film festival designed to encourage and inspire Memphis filmmakers while engaging a local audience. Currently in it's 3rd year, to date Li'l Film Fest has helped to inspire the creation of 131 films and in the process supported hundreds of aspiring filmmakers, crew members, and actors.

From Li'l Film Fest 9: Memphis - Fact or Fiction?
Journeyman directed by Arnold Edwards
An Exemplary Look at Memphis, Tennessee - Free of Charge! directed by G.B. Shrewsbury
El Regalo (The Gift) directed by Angel Ortez
Milhouse & The King directed by Alex & Clay
Weird Tales of Shelby Forst Vol. 1 - Thrill Hill directed by H. G. Ray
Snipe Huntin' directed by Eric Swartz
Chuck, From Craigslist directed by Morgan Jon Fox
CottonBallLand directed by Corduroy Wednesday

From Li'l Film Fest 10: Family
Sunday directed by Val Overstreet
Dinner at the Olson's directed by Don Meyers
Family Heat! directed by Andy Strong
Meet the Grotz directed by Rich Kimball
Son of… directed by J. Lazarus Hawk
Downer directed by Jason Rawlings and Jason Davenport
Monday directed by Eric Swartz

From Li'l Film Fest 11: Musical Horror
Lil Film Fest 11 Jury Winner (TBD)
Lil Film Fest 11 Audience Winner (TBD)

Seeking a cast

From Arnold Edwards II:

I have the pleasure of co-producing and being 1st AD on an upcoming
project titled A Disjointed Proposal. I'm contacting you in hopes you
may be interested....

The talented Derek Steiner, Unwatchable Films, is casting for his
short comedy A Disjointed Proposal:

Hilarity ensues when an unfortunate accident leads a commitment phobic
waiter through a sequence of events in search of his severed finger
while dodging his girlfriend's persistent requests to bond with her
parents who happen to be dining at the same restaurant.

We’re looking for all ages, genders and ethnic backgrounds.

The shoot dates will be Friday Oct 23rd and Saturday 24th from 10pm till 5am.

This is a no-budget student project. This means it’s not a paying gig,
but a wonderful opportunity to exercise your amazing talent, meet new
people/network, work on something fresh and have your work showcased
in festivals around the country!

If interested, send your contact info, a picture and any related
materials you’re interested in sharing that showcases your abilities
to Derek at:

DisjointedProposal@gmail.com

Indie Memphis Films in Focus, etc.

Indie Memphis 'Secret Screening'
Get a free sneak peak at one of the 2009 Indie Memphis
features -- one so cool that we can't tell you which one it is!
Your only hint: Musical. Space. Western. (No, not that one.)
7:30 pm, Wednesday, Sept. 23 @ Malco's Studio on the Square
Admission: Free and open to the public.

Other Special Screenings:

Jim Esposito's THE OUTSKIRTS OF HEAVEN
7 pm, Wednesday, Sept. 23
@ Memphis Mary's Stop 345 (345 Madison Ave.)
Admission: Free and open to the public.
Food and drink will be available at the cash bar.

2 MILLION MINUTES: THE 21st CENTURY SOLUTON
7 pm, Thursday, Sept 24 @ Malco's Paradiso
Admission: $7 / RSVP at orders@2mminutes.com or call 888-705-5324

MANHATTAN SHORT FILM FEST
presented by On Location: Memphis
7 pm, Thursday, Sept. 24 @ Malco's Studio on the Square
Tickets on sale at the door, beginning at 5 pm the day of the show.

Mike McCarthy's CIGARETTE GIRL - Gonerfest Matinees
1 pm on Thurs. 9/24, Fri. 9/25 and Sat. 9/26
@ Brooks Museum of Art
Admission: $7 at the door / $5 with Gonerfest ticket or Brooks membership.


In Theatres:

WORLD'S GREATEST DAD @ Malco's Ridgeway Four

IN THE LOOP @ Malco's Ridgeway Four

ADAM @ Malco's Ridgeway Four

THE HURT LOCKER @ Malco's Ridgeway Four

You judge the short films

On Location:Memphis is hosting "Manhattan Short" on Sept. 24 at 7 p.m. at Studio on the Square.

Filmgoers here are joining audiences in 172 additional cities across five continents to view and judge the next generation of filmmakers when the 12th Annual MANHATTAN SHORT Film Festival screens at Malco’s Studio On The Square Theatre on Thursday 9/24 at 7 pm. “We are excited to be the only organization in the state of Tennessee to be given the privilege of participating in the Manhattan Short Film Fest for the 2nd year,” said Lisa Bobal, President On Location: MEMPHIS.

This year the festival received 428 entries from 36 countries around the world from which 10 short films – all 14 minutes and under in length – were selected. Countries represented this year include the USA, Australia, Mozambique, UK, Israel, Spain, France, Sweden and Italy in what festival organizers describe as a “Cinematic Olympiad.”

Filmgoers will be handed a voting card upon entry and asked to vote for the one film they feel should win. Votes are tallied at each cinema and forwarded to the festival’s headquarters in NYC where the winner will be announced Sept. 27.

With some of our past finalists achieving the highest recognition the industry has to offer by going on to be nominated for and even winning an Oscar in the short film category, including two finalists in the past two festivals, the Manhattan Short has come to be known as one of the best launching pads for filmmakers in the world today.

Tickets to the event in Memphis, on Thursday, 9/24/09, will go on sale at 5 pm that day at Malco’s Studio On The Square. Contact Lisab@onlocationmemphis.org for more details or questions.

Elvis at The Shell. Really!

"Historic return of Elvis Presley to the Levitt Shell for 12th annual Indie " on Friday, October 9 at 7:00pm.

Erik says, "Mark your calendar & spread the word! Elvis and outdoor movies are returning to the Levitt Shell with a free screening of the "Elvis: '68 Special" on Friday, Oct. 9 as part of the 12th annual Indie Memphis Film Festival. Hooray! http://www.facebook.com/l/89be3;www.indiememphis.com".

Event: Historic return of Elvis Presley to the Levitt Shell for 12th annual Indie
"Free screening of "Elvis: '68 Special" on Friday, Oct. 9th"
What: Performance
Host: Indie Memphis
Start Time: Friday, October 9 at 7:00pm
End Time: Friday, October 9 at 9:00pm
Where: Levitt Shell

Filmmakers: The clock's ticking...

The National Film Challenge, the 48 Hour Film Project's sister competition, is coming on October 23rd through 26th!

http://www.filmchallenge.org

Regardless of where you live, this is your opportunity to write, shoot, and edit a short film in three days. Just like in the 48 Hour Film Project, you'll receive a character, prop, line of dialogue, and a genre at 7pm local time, October 23rd. Then you'll have to mail the film in on October 26th. In the following weeks the top films (determined by a national panel of judges) will be available for viewing (and voting!) on the NFC website. The winning films will screen with the 48 Hour Film Project City Winners at the next FIlmapalooza at the NAB Show, the 48 Hour Film Project's end of year event. In addition there are cash prizes for the winning films!

SO WHO PARTICIPATES IN THE NATIONAL FILM CHALLENGE?

--48HFP Filmmakers who have a need for speed and want to make another film before the 48HFP returns to your city in 2010.
--Filmmakers who either missed your city's 48HFP or who did not register in time to make your city's team limit.
--Filmmakers who live in cities that do not have a 48HFP yet. (Please forward this to your friends and relatives who might be in this dire
situation!)

HOW DO I SIGN UP MY TEAM?

Registration is now open on our website. The number of teams is limited to 300 and registration is on a first come first served basis.
The Early Bird Entry Fee is $115 if you register on or before September 23, 2009 and $135 if you register between September 24, 2009 and October 22, 2009. Teams can be anywhere from 1 person to 30 or more people. Read all of the rules of the contest here:

http://www.filmchallenge.org/For-Filmmakers/

Do you have any questions about the National Film Challenge? Please check our FAQ page and then use our web form to submit questions you still need answered.

http://www.filmchallenge.org/For-Filmmakers/general-faq.html

Wondering what your competition will be like? View the winning films from the last four Film Challenges in our on-line screening room:

http://www.filmchallenge.org/Films/

The National Film Challenge is a non-profit event brought to you by KDHX Community Media and the 48 Hour Film Project.

http://www.kdhx.org/mediaarts
http://www.48hourfilm.com

Every second counts! (Even when you have a whopping 72 hours to make your film.)

Understanding Shakespeare

UNDERSTANDING SHAKESPEARE - THE ACTORS COMMUNITY

One of the difficulties faced when learning Shakespeare is language accessibility. We simply have difficulty understanding the words, and so we miss the meaning of his plays and sonnets. LaVita Brooks will be taking on the responsibility of helping The Actors Community understand Shakespeare's language in order to appreciate what the plays mean.

Lavita trained with Shakespeare & Company in Lenox, MA and has been teaching Shakespeare for two years. She has a Bachelor of Fine Arts and has been acting professionally for four years. During her first scene study, Lavita will go over Self Awareness which allows the actor to block out the things around them with voice and body exercises. This will be a lesson in acknowledgement of self.

The Actors Community helps adult actors who want training the chance to train without wondering about a lot of fees. It also helps in keeping the acting muscles warm so that when an opportunity for an audition approaches; the actor has been working on their craft that can be applied to the audition and possibly get them the job.

For more information, send inquiries to jenneanfarmer@gmail.com.

Scene study group will meet Tuesday, September 8th at Caritas Village from 6:30p-8:30p. Directions are below.

Caritas Village

Take Poplar Avenue westbound

Turn right on Merton Street

Turn left on Harvard Avenue

Caritas Village will be to the left

2509 Harvard Avenue

Lou Gossett! ... Outflix! ... Live Animals!

Lou Gossett is starring in a local feature ... Outflix begins Friday ... Live Animals is out on DVD Tuesday.

Fiddler on the Roof: Tough guys needed

Amy Hanford needs a couple more guys for Fiddler at Harrell Theatre. Small part, limited rehearsal. I need guys to play Russians to come kick some butt. Any interest? Omggal123@aol.com

AFFT mixer Wednesday

The Association for the Future of Film and Television Memphis Chapter Membership Event

If you are interested in increasing work opportunities in our area, come and find out what you as an individual and we as a group can do for the future of the entertainment industry.
Refreshments provided by Just Catering, Blue Moon, and MGD! Music provided by Brian Sharpe.
Wednesday, August 26th, 2009, 5:30-7:30pm
Opera Memphis 6745 Wolf River Pkwy Memphis, TN 38120

Members and non-members welcome. Members (existing and new) will be entered into the raffle for some great prizes.
Join at the door for only $25 or become a member online at:
http://www.affttennessee.org/joinafft.htm

Some raffles include: Malco Movie Tickets, Playhouse on the Square tickets, Itta Bena Restaurant gift certificate, BB Kings Blues Club gift certificate, Indie Memphis subscription, Indie Memphis Movie passes, Be a pyrotechnician for a day from High-Tech Special Effects, Inc.

We look forward to seeing everyone there! Bring a friend!

Thanks to our sponsors: Running Pony Productions, Elzemeyer Talent Agency, Eliza Tate Event Design, River City Sound, Chad Mellon Photography, Memphis Cool Movies and High Tech Special Events.

Wednesday: Help boost filmmaking in Memphis

AFFT Memphis Chapter Membership Event

If you are interested in increasing work opportunities in our area, come and find out what you as an individual and we as a group can do for the future of this industry.

Wednesday August 26th, 2009
5:30-7:30

Opera Memphis
6745 Wolf River Pkwy
Memphis, TN 38120



Members and non-members welcome. Members will be automatically entered into the raffle for some great prizes. Refreshments will be served. To become a member click the link below.

http://www.affttennessee.org/joinafft.htm

More event details to come.

On Location: Memphis call for entries

The Call For Entries for the 11th Annual On Location: MEMPHIS int'l film fest is underway! The festival will be held April 22-25, 2010 at Malco's Ridgeway Four.

Screen your film in the birthplace of Rock N Roll, the home of the blues and land of great BBQ!

In addition to all the great things Memphis has to offer, the one thing that filmmakers have told us that sets our festival apart is our rich southern hospitality.

From the moment your film is accepted into our festival we will work to make it easy for you to come to Memphis to share your experiences with us and our audiences.

We host a filmmaker's reception where you will have the opportunity to meet OLM staff, sponsors, jurors, vendors, and even an occasional celebrity. Opening night ceremonies are held at Morgan Freeman's own blues club, Ground Zero, just a block from historical Beale Street. One of our traditions is to take attending filmmakers out to a Memphis-style BBQ lunch (vegetarian dishes available too!). Then there is the Saturday Night Bash to live Blues and Rock&Roll. There will be plenty of opportunity to network with other filmmakers and industry professionals throughout the festival. We do the best that we can to help you arrange for accommodations (cheap to beau coup) transportation and tours of famous Memphis landmarks.

Past festival attendees include: Richard Gladstein, Morgan Freeman, Holly Hunter, Isaac Hayes, Caldecott "Cotty" Chubb, Cybill Shepherd, Alan Bloomquist, Leo Fitzpatrick, Robert Mugge, Don Hertzfeldt, Marilyn Atlas, Craig Brewer, Ira Sachs, Andrew Deane, Jon Glascoe, Joseph Pierson, Del Shores, and Leslie Jordan.

You've worked hard on your film (Music Video, Documentary, Shot Film, Feature Film, etc). Now come and have some fun with us and other filmmakers in one of the most continuously growing and musical of cities. You may even spot a certain elusive fellow last seen in a white rhinestone-studded jumpsuit.

Visit our website at www.onlocationmemphis.org or Click here for our Call For Entries submission form

Local film 'Glass' premieres online

"Glass," a 20-minute film in competition in The Doorpost Project is on view today at thedoorpost.com.

The film, produced by Paul Skidmore and directed by Dan Baker and Christopher Pollock, is the team's second effort for Doorpost. Earlier this year, the short "John Gray" was selected as one of 10 finalists among 600 entries. With that selection came an award of $30,000 to create "Glass." The 10 finalist films are being screened one-a-day on the Doorpost site. Anyone can vote but you must register and you must see all 10 films for your vote to count. The winner, to be announced in Nashville next month, will be determined partly by the online vote and partly by a panel of judges.

For more infomation, go to thedoorpost.com and parabolos.com

Bearden's 'One Came Home' wraps shooting

John Beifuss writes in The Commercial Appeal about the Willie Bearden-directed film "One Came Home" that just finished shooting in the Mid-South. Here's an excerpt:

Scripted by Bearden and Memphis writer David Tankersley, “One Came Home” is the story of a con artist who takes advantage of a proper Mississippi family by pretending to be the wartime buddy of the family’s son, who was killed in combat in Europe.

“One Came Home” was produced with what Bearden called a “core” crew of about 25 people. Some scenes — including a church service and a traditional Southern outdoor party — required 30 to 40 extras.

A longtime filmmaker and event producer, Bearden makes a living creating commercials, corporate and educational films (for the Elvis Presley Birthplace Museum in Tupelo and the Cotton Museum in Downtown Memphis, among other clients), and by staging such productions as the annual Blues Music Awards.

“I’ve always said my job is to make sure I have a balance between art and technology. The craft of filmmaking is leading your viewers to exactly what you want them to see, and, hopefully, to what you want them to feel.”

Actors Scene Study Tuesday

FREE ACTORS SCENE STUDY

The Actors Community

Join the Actors Community where producer/director, Jay Jackson ("Lucky", "Empty") will be critiquing each actors work. Come out to participate this Tuesday, 6:30pm-8:30pm at Caritas Village. Directions to Caritas are listed below.

The Actors Community helps adult actors who want training the chance to train without wondering about a lot of fees. It also helps in keeping the acting muscles warm so that when an opportunity for an audition approaches; the actor has been working on their craft that can be applied to the audition and possibly get them the job.

For more information, send inquiries to jenneanfarmer@gmail.com.

Directions to Caritas Village
Take Poplar Avenue westbound
Turn right on Merton Street
Turn left on Harvard Avenue
Caritas Village is to the left
2509 Harvard Avenue, 38112

Indie Memphis meets the challenge

Indie Memphis, the force behind an event one national magazine recently named one of the world’s “25 Coolest Film Festivals,” has successfully met a $20,000 challenge from ArtsMemphis – an accomplishment that has allowed the non-profit organization to reach more than half its goal of raising $80,000 by December.

The challenge grant from ArtsMemphis, made in May through an anonymous donor, stipulated that Indie Memphis raise $20,000 in new funding by the end of June to receive the $20,000 grant. Indie Memphis not only met the challenge, it exceeded it. Thanks in part to the launch of its individual membership program, the non-profit organization surpassed its June 30th goal by $16,000 and, with that amount plus the $20,000 challenge grant from ArtsMemphis and $10,000 in additional funds raised in July, is now only $14,000 short of its December goal.

“The generosity of ArtsMemphis and its anonymous donor served as an inspiration to the community at large, who stepped up to support Indie Memphis with donations as small as one dollar,” said Erik Jambor, executive director of Indie Memphis, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. “Meeting our December goal will leave our organization well-positioned for the future and help ensure its long-term financial stability.”

Jambor said the accomplishment is even more gratifying because it comes during today’s difficult economic period and goes against the recent trend that has negatively impacted established film festivals and area arts organizations.

“We are extremely happy to have a part in strengthening one of the most powerful artistic forces in our city: the Memphis independent film industry,” said Susan Schadt, president and CEO of ArtsMemphis. “Indie Memphis masters the art of film by capturing the Memphis vibe in a very unique way.”

Indie Memphis, which connects and inspires though year-round programs of independent feature films, documentaries, short films, animation and student work, will hold its 12th annual Indie Memphis Film Festival this year from October 8 to 15.

The current issue of MovieMaker, a bimonthly magazine that covers “the art and business of making movies,” named the Indie Memphis Film Festival as one of the world’s “25 Coolest Film Festivals.” The New York-based publication, which has a circulation of 165,000, cites Indie Memphis’ “unique creative landscape that is the home of the blues and the birthplace of rock ‘n roll.”

Earlier this year, film director Craig Brewer kicked off the fundraising campaign with the World Premiere of his made-for-MTV film “$5 Cover” at the Malco Paradiso. This benefit screening raised over $12,000 for Indie Memphis.

Jambor points out that Memphians can support the organization and help it reach its December fundraising goal by becoming an Indie Memphis member for $50 per year ($30 for full-time students; $40 for filmmakers with at least two production credits). Memberships provide year-round benefits including special discounts at the annual Indie Memphis Film Festival. Corporate sponsorship opportunities for the October film festival are still available as well.

Those wanting more information about Indie Memphis can visit its Web site at www.indiememphis.com.

Promote film in Memphis

AFFT Memphis Chapter Membership Event

If you are interested in increasing work opportunities in our area, come and find out what you as an individual and we as a group can do for the future of this industry.

Wednesday August 26th, 2009

5:30-7:30

Opera Memphis

6745 Wolf River Pkwy

Memphis, TN 38120

Members and non-members welcome. Members will be automatically entered into the raffle for some great prizes. Refreshments will be served. To become a member click the link below.

http://www.affttennessee.org/joinafft.htm

More event details to come.

Local film blogsite

Memphis Film Works -- a nice blog about local film with a useful listing of crew resources.

On Location: entries being taken

The Call For Entries for the 11th Annual On Location: MEMPHIS international film fest is underway! - Monday, July 27, 2009

The Call For Entries for the 11th Annual On Location: MEMPHIS international film fest is underway! Screen your film in the birthplace of Rock N Roll, the home of the blues and land of great BBQ!

In addition to all the great things Memphis has to offer, the one thing that filmmakers have told us that sets our festival apart is our rich southern hospitality. From the moment your film is accepted into our festival we will work to make it easy for you to come to Memphis to share your experiences with us and our audiences.

We host a filmmaker's reception where you will have the opportunity to meet OLM staff, sponsors, jurors, vendors, and even an occasional celebrity. Opening night ceremonies are held at Morgan Freeman's own blues club, Ground Zero, just a block from historical Beale Street. One of our traditions is to take attending filmmakers out to a Memphis-style BBQ lunch (vegetarian dishes available too!). Then there is the Saturday Night Bash to live Blues and Rock&Roll. There will be plenty of opportunity to network with other filmmakers throughout the festival.
We do the best that we can to help you arrange for accommodations (cheap to beau coup) transportation and tours of famous Memphis landmarks.

You've worked hard on your film. Now come and have some fun with us and other filmmakers in one of the most magical and musical of cities. You may even spot a certain elusive fellow last seen in a white rhinestone-studded jumpsuit.

Click here for our Call For Entries submission form

Scene study

Looking to do scene study work amongst other actors once a week?

Come join The Actors Community where you will have the opportunity to work on your craft with a partner for free for two weeks and be critiqued by a professional for two weeks.

This is an adult actors group work that you can participate in every Tuesday. The first class will be Tuesday, August 4th from 6:30p-8:30p at Caritas Village located at 2509 Harvard Avenue.

The group helps those who want training the chance to train without wondering about a lot of fees. It also helps in keeping the acting muscles warm so that when an opportunity for an audition approaches; the actor has been working on their craft that can be applied to the audition and possibly get them the job.

Feel free to pass this evite along to other actors who might be interested.

For more information, contact Jennean Farmer at jenneanfarmer@gmail.com.

Performance art in Memphis -- discussion

A Panel Discussion on "Articulating Race and Power through Public Spaces" is being held this Thursday from 6-8 p.m. at the Power House Memphis (45 East G.E. Patterson Ave.)

Inspired by Richard Lou's recent performance art event in Nathan Bedford Forrest Park, ReCovering Memphis: Listening to Untold Stories, the discussion will focus on the often controversial realm of public art and how art, space, and place can reinforce or break down the racial (cultural) divide in Memphis and beyond.

The panelists include D'Army Bailey, Ernestine Jenkins, Richard Alexander Lou, Lee Millar, Wanda Rushing, and John Weeden.

A boost for Open Five and a party for Memphis indie films

This Thursday's "Love Letter to Memphis" is a fundraising party and concert for Kentucker Audley's film OPEN FIVE, and it's a celebration of independent film in Memphis.

The event is at 7 p.m. at Minglewood Hall (1555 Madison) and tickets are $12.

Music is by Star & Micey and there's a Silent Auction of Memphis items.

Come support Kentucker's project and local indie films all in one excellent party.

Here's more info on OPEN FIVE.

And here's info on Audley's critically praised 2007 film TEAM PICTURE.

Reminder: Book signing and film fundraiser

Ronald Baldridge was a gang member in Memphis in 1985 when he was shot twice while participating in a robbery at a Frayser skating rink, leaving him wheelchair bound. He would be shot three more times in 1986, 1987 and 1988. With the help of Memphis police officer Steve Grisham, Baldridge found God and renounced the gang life. He has since been a community activist, youth counselor and written "From Gangs to God." A book signing will be held at Java Cabana, 2170 Young Ave., on Saturday July 25th at 7 p.m. Baldridge has been trying for years to get funding for his movie, "5 Shots", so he and a few other people can get this story off the ground. The proceeds from the book sale will go to his organization called P.I.A.N.O. which stands for "people in alliance needing others," and toward funding production of the movie. For more info, contact Marguerite at daisyscreations57@yahoo.com

Paper Moon Films: Ready to create

John Beifuss reports in the CA that Paper Moon Films is launching three projects:

Two filmmakers have teamed to form Paper Moon Films, a Memphis production company preparing to launch three low-budget features, including one from buzz-generating local director Kentucker Audley and one co-starring Memphis songstress Amy LaVere and New York-based singer/actress Ann Magnuson.

"A lot of people talk about making movies, but we're not interested in talking about making movies, we're interested in getting these movies made," said Nick Case, partner in Paper Moon with Ryan Watt.

Read the full story here.

Extras needed Wednesday

Extras Needed: Wednesday Night, July 22, at Davies Manor

Time 6:30 p.m. to Midnight (at the very latest)

One Came Home, a feature film by Willy Bearden and David Tankersley, needs extras for this Wednesday night at Davies Manor. Since this is a period piece - Mississippi 1946 - men can not have facial hair and should be dressed in simple white, splayed collar (no button down collars) shirts and khaki or dark dress pants. Hair should be short or slicked back. Shoes should be simple work brogans or solid dark. Women should have hair pulled back or long. If you have appropriate period costume, that is great. If not, there will be limited period dresses at the set. The scene is a country yard party. Those who love to do a little country two-step dancing are encouraged. All ages welcome, but children and young people, only with parents please.

Have no doubt, come on out.

You may contact southernvoice@hotmail.com for questions or for more information.

Disney Train to Memphis Aug. 4

Disney is coming to Memphis on Aug. 4 as part of a 40-city interactive train tour including a 3D sneak peek of film footage from the upcoming movie “Disney’s A Christmas Carol." This family event is for guests of all ages and is free to the public. Opening ceremonies are 8:15 a.m.; the exhibit opens to the public at 9 a.m.

Starring Jim Carrey and directed by Academy Award®-winning filmmaker Robert Zemeckis, “Disney’s A Christmas Carol” opens in theatres November 6 in Disney Digital 3D™ and in IMAX 3D®.

“‘Disney’s A Christmas Carol’ Train Tour will introduce families across the country to the holiday film. Among the highlights of the tour are authentic artifacts on loan from the Charles Dickens Museum of London; artwork, costumes and props from the film; demonstrations of performance capture technology; and a chance to morph your face into one of the film’s characters. At each stop, a state-of-the-art Disney Digital 3D Theatre will be erected, where guests can get a sneak peek of “Disney’s A Christmas Carol” and see other exclusive behind-the-scenes materials from the movie. The latest details about tour stops and scheduled events are available at www.christmascaroltraintour.com.

Featuring four custom-designed vintage rail cars full of behind-the-scenes attractions, entertaining demonstrations, and fun activities, the tour started in LA in May and ends at New York’s Grand Central Terminal over the weekend of October 30th through November 1st.
At every tour stop, Radio Disney will invite kids to enter for a chance to become a Movie Surfer representing their hometown. Each Hometown Movie Surfer will get a chance to appear on Disney Channel by filming their very own Movie Surfer’s segment! They’ll also receive a prize package of exclusive Movie Surfer and "Disney’s A Christmas Carol” gear.
ABOUT THE MOVIE
“Disney’s A Christmas Carol,” a multi-sensory thrill ride re-envisioned by Academy Award®-winning filmmaker Robert Zemeckis, captures the fantastical essence of the classic Dickens tale in a groundbreaking, performance-capture 3D motion picture event. Ebeneezer Scrooge (Jim Carrey) begins the holiday with his usual miserly contempt, barking at his faithful clerk (Gary Oldman) and his cheery nephew (Colin Firth). But when the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come take him on an eye-opening journey, revealing truths Old Scrooge is reluctant to face, he must open his heart to undo years of ill will before it’s too late. Through the magic of performance-capture technology, Jim Carrey tackles seven roles, including Scrooge and all of the Christmas spirits.

'Murderous hillbillies descend on Memphis'

One of the best headlines ever takes us into John Beifuss' story on the MTV project "Savage County" to be filmed in Memphis next month. Craig Brewer is executive producer:

Created by David Harris, a producer with MTV New Media, the 15-webisode program will employ many of the local crew members who worked on Memphis filmmaker Craig Brewer's similarly Web-based "$5 Cover," which made its debut online and on MTV in April after being shot here last summer.

For the full story, go here.

Memphis film goes international

What happens when a German intern comes to work for a summer with the Memphis and Shelby County Film and TV Commission? It could be the seed of something big.

Read John Beifuss' story here.

Local films at Black Film Festival this weekend

The Black Film Festival 09 at the Hattiloo Theatre is this Friday and Saturday.

Friday's Schedule:
6pm: Kickoff reception
7:30pm: "Tricks" by DeAara Lewis
10:30pm: Afterparty

Saturday's Schedule:
10am: Workshop: Acting for the Camera
12:30pm: Workshop: How to promote your film
1:30pm: Workshop: How to finance an indie film
3pm: Workshop: Nuts and bolts of indie filmmaking
5pm: Shorts by William Westbrook
5:30pm: "Just the Two of Us" by Keenon Nikita
7pm: documentaries by Marcellous Lovelace
8pm: Film by Rod Pitts

$8 Admission per film or $35 for a 2-day pass
Workshops: $15/each
To buy tickets online: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/71678

Hattiloo Theatre, 656 Marshall. Call 525-0009; hattilootheatre.org

Reminder: Book signing and film fundraiser

Ronald Baldridge was a gang member in Memphis in 1985 when he was shot twice while participating in a robbery at a Frayser skating rink, leaving him wheelchair bound. He would be shot three more times in 1986, 1987 and 1988. With the help of Memphis police officer Steve Grisham, Baldridge found God and renounced the gang life. He has since been a community activist, youth counselor and written "From Gangs to God." A book signing will be held at Java Cabana, 2170 Young Ave., on Saturday July 25th at 7 p.m. Baldridge has been trying for years to get funding for his movie, "5 Shots", so he and a few other people can get this story off the ground. The proceeds from the book sale will go to his organization called P.I.A.N.O. which stands for "people in alliance needing others," and toward funding production of the movie. For more info, contact Marguerite at daisyscreations57@yahoo.com

Casting for 'The Glass'

Memphis-based production company Parabolos will hold a casting session for the short film "The Glass" Tuesday, July 7 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm in room 201 of the Community Life Center on the campus of the Church of Christ White Station, 1106 Colonial Rd.

Those wishing to audition are asked to contact directors dan baker and chris pollock (901.361.9189 or e-mail: dan@danwrotethis.com, cpollock@parabolos.com). scripts will be provided for cold readings. headshots and resumes are appreciated, but not necessary.

production dates are july 13th - july 21st, 2009. roles are unpaid, but actors will receive a copy for their reel. this film is part of an international film contest and will be seen by thousands of online viewers, including many top-tier film and television industry producers, directors, actors, agents, etc.

characters
Tim Stendal (male, 11) - adventurous son of missionaries Elliot and Olive Stendal.
Elliot Stendal (male, late 30’s) - American missionary in Chile.
Olive Stendal (female, mid-30’s) - Elliot’s wife, Tim’s mother; nurse.
General Seve (male, late 40’s/early 50’s) - Chilean guerrilla leader.
Lt. Chimo (male, 19-25) - Chilean guerrilla.
Carlos (male, 40-50) - native Chilean; informant to Gen. Seve.
Pepe (male, 16) - Chilean guerrilla; new recruit.
New Recruit (male, 16) - shaky Chilean guerrilla kid.
Worship Leader (male, 35-45) - Elliot’s devoted partner; native Chilean.
Little Boy (8-12) - story-loving friend for Tim to play with; native Chilean.
Little Girl (8-10) - native Chilean; separated from her family.
Chilean Military (men, 20’s) - young men; pawns in the military’s efforts
guerrilla fighters (men, 16-25) - young men who fight with General Seve.
townspeople (mixed, all ages) - people of Morado village; native Chileans.

'Cigarette Girl' goes Down Under

Cori Dials and the boisterous JMM

John Michael McCarthy -- the Godfather of Memphis indie film -- leaves town Tuesday for an almost three-week tour of Australia that includes the premiere Friday of "Cigarette Girl," at the prestigious Revelation Perth International Film Festival.

John Beifuss reports in the CA that:

"Cigarette Girl" tentatively is set to have its Memphis premiere on Sept. 10 at the Malco Paradiso, in what would be the first collaboration between the Indie Memphis Film Festival and the On Location: Memphis International Film Fest.

After Perth, McCarthy said, he will screen "Cigarette Girl" in Sydney, and will show some of his past films, including "Teenage Tupelo" and "Elvis Meets the Beatles," at various cinemas, clubs and taverns in Australia. He said he plans to use his off time in the Antipodes to write a Western.

Indie Heaven for screenwriters - sign up now

From John Beifuss' story in the CA:

A pair of lauded movie makers will be in Memphis this month to host free screenings and workshops for aspiring local screenwriters.

The filmmakers -- producer Mike S. Ryan and writer-director Barry Jenkins -- will review and discuss script "treatments" in afternoon workshops on July 18-19. Attendance will be limited, to keep the groups manageable, and is restricted to residents of Shelby County. Treatments for review must be submitted in advance, and will be selected by the filmmakers.

Organized by the Memphis and Shelby County Film Commission, the effort is an attempt to help the city's many hopeful writers, said film commissioner Linn Sitler, who has labeled the weekend "Indie Heaven."

Treatments must be submitted to the film commission at info@memphisfilmcomm.org. Examples of the requested treatment format can be found on the commission's Web site.

In addition to the film commission, sponsors of the "Indie Heaven" weekend include Malco Theatres Inc. and MemphisED, an economic development organization.

The event is a sequel of sorts to last year's film commission more job-oriented workshops, which focused on film crew positions.

Read the full story here and check out the info at the Film/TV commission's web site here.

Casting Call for a short film

Writer/Director: Rob Winfrey
The story calls for a female who can play an age range of 22-32, no specific ethnicity, to play two parts. One is a vulnerable, scared woman and the other is an in-control lawyer-prosecutor type. It will be a full day of shooting.
There is no pay but the actress will receive movie credit, a copy of the finished film, and will be taken care of and fed on set.
Auditions will be held July 6, 2009 at 6:30PM-8:30PM at Carita's Villiage located at 2509 Harvard Ave, Memphis, TN. 38112
Contact Monica c/o monicasummerfield@comcast.net with any questions

"Taylor Made"

The CA's John Beifuss on a film exhibition at the Center for Southern Folklore:

The most significant filmmaker in this city's history might be a man who never worked with movie studios or stars.

He was inspired by the Bible and the black neighborhoods of Memphis, not by fictional screenplays or the glitter of Hollywood.

"He was a one-man CNN of the community," said Dr. Beverly Bond of the University of Memphis, speaking about the subject of "Taylor Made: The Life and Work of the Rev. L.O. Taylor," a new "online exhibit" that can be found on the recently launched Web site of the Center for Southern Folklore at southernfolklore.com.

"The Conversion"

It's not what you thought it was going to be: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iM7-zIIyfow

"Night" trailer

Slick trailer for a scary film, coming soon.

Wanna be a Millionaire?

Saturday June 13
Nashville, Tennessee
(NOTE NO MOVIE TEST WILL BE GIVEN IN NASHVILLE)

HILTON NASHVILLE DOWNTOWN
7AM TO 11AM
(call back interviews from 12:30PM to 4:00PM)

The lights…heart-pounding music…the chance to win 1 Million Dollars...It can only mean one thing: America’s favorite game show, Who Wants to be a Millionaire, is back!

We’re on the lookout and we’re going on the road to cities across America!

Go to http://www.millionairetv.com/special/roadauditions/nashville.html for more information.

Li'l Film Fest: Family

Live From Memphis™ Presents LI’L FILM FEST 10: Family

Live From Memphis proudly announces its 10th LI'L FILM FEST, June 13, 2009 working with a theme we all have something to shout about: Family. The screening for this showcase of independent, local film will be held at The Brooks Museum of Art inside Overton Park at 2pm.

LI'L FILM FEST remains true to its goal of supporting local filmmakers and promoting film as art. Thanks to our partnership with the Memphis Tourism Foundation and collaboration with Indie Memphis, the festival has strengthened the film community of Memphis, giving aspiring local film artists small, manageable projects to work on and complete. Please join us in honoring our dedicated filmmakers.

On Saturday, June 13, the screening will include the following works:

“Dinner at the Olson's” directed by Don Meyers

“Downer” directed by Jason Rawlings and Jason Davenport

“Family Heat!” directed by Andy Strong

“Meet the Grotz” directed by Rich Kimball

“Reunion” directed by Pandora

“Some People's Families” directed by Jessica Sprenkle

“Son of . . . “ directed by J. Lazarus Hawk

“Sunday” directed by Val Overstreet

“Until Death Do Us Part” directed by Carl E Walters

“Wes' Hypothesis” directed by Daniel Felts

"Monday" directed by Eric Swartz

Our “Grand Jury Award” will be accompanied by a customized, thematic trophy and $500 in cash prizes presented by The Memphis & Shelby Co. Film & Television Commission and Indie Memphis. The “Audience Choice Award” will come with a trophy and the prize money is cash from the door, so the more people that come to the festival the bigger the pot!

Indie Memphis has put together an out-of-town jury of industry professionals for the “Grand Jury Award:” Joanne Feinberg, Director of Programming for the Ashland Independent Film Festival in Ashland, Oregon; Ted Speaker, Associate Producer of HUMPDAY (opening in theaters this July) and juror for the 2008 LFM Music Video Showcase; and Gabe Wardell, Executive Director of the Atlanta Film Festival.

All films submitted to the Li’l Film Fest will automatically be placed into consideration for the Annual Indie Memphis Film Festival, and any and all submission fees will be waived. (Li’l Film Fest winners will still have an automatic slot in the festival as part of their prize package).

Tickets for screening are $5 at the door. For more information about the festival, please visit www.livefrommemphiscom

The Short and Sweet:

Theme: Family

Secret Ingredient: Heat

Duration: 5 minutes or less

Festival Date: Saturday, June 13th, 2009 2pm

Festival Location: Brooks Museum of Art

Awards: Grand Jury Award ($500) | Audience Choice (door $$)
Li’l Film Fest is a quarterly, theme-based film festival, focusing on highlighting our local talent while showcasing interesting happenings around town. Our goal is to encourage and inspire Memphis filmmakers while engaging a local audience in order to strengthen our artistic community.
“How does Li’l Film Fest work?” It’s pretty easy. Basically, we here at LFM will pick a theme, then we’ll announce that theme to you, and then you get to go out and make a short video (or film if you want to be fancy) using that theme – the rest of the content is up to you.
“Why is it a ‘li’l’ fest?” Two reasons: One, we have one every quarter – that’s FOUR festivals a year. How fun is that? And two, when we say “li'l” we mean it - your film must be 5 minutes or less.
“Is there anything else I should know?” Geez, you ask a lot of questions, but the answer is “Yes.” There are 2 awards given at each festival, the “Audience Choice Award” and the “Jury Award” both of which receive a trophy and a CASH prize!! And if that’s not enough incentive for you each winner has a guaranteed spot in the next Indie Memphis Film Festival! So keep that in mind when you’re rolling those cameras.

About Our Sponsors

The Memphis Tourism Foundation
The Memphis Tourism Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the Memphis Convention and Visitors Bureau. The pursue a mission targeting workforce development, positive self-image, and advocacy for our city.

Indie Memphis

Now in its 12th year, Indie Memphis utilizes Memphis’ rich cultureal history to serve as a connecting point for regional filmmakers from all corners of the country – and provides a showcase for films celebrating Southern stories and storytelling.

The Memphis and Shelby County Film and Television Commission
The Memphis and Shelby County Film and Television Commission is committed to making every facet of your film project go smoothly. They posses a solid track record in the industry and have been widely recognized and honored for their efforts.

AudioGraphics Masterworks
AudioGraphics Masterworks is the source in Memphis for all of your CD and DVD manufacturing, mastering, design, and printing needs.

The Brooks Museum of Art

The Memphis Brooks Museum of Art is the oldest fine arts museum in the state of Tennessee, located at the heart of Memphis in historic Overton Park. In association with Emerging Pictures, a New York-based film company, the Brooks screens award-winning independent films every month in the Dorothy K. Hohenberg Auditorium.

Indie Memphis fundraising

Indie Memphis gets a challenge grant -- from a story in the CA by John Beifuss.

Donate to Indie Memphis or become a member of the organization by June 30 and your contribution will be matched dollar for dollar, thanks to a challenge grant from ArtsMemphis.

The $20,000 grant, from an anonymous donor, is at the forefront of what Indie Memphis executive director Erik Jambor describes as the organization's most ambitious fundraising campaign ever.

Jambor said Indie Memphis hopes to raise $80,000 by December to ensure the group's "financial stability and long-term sustainability."

Dedicated to the promotion of independent cinema and local moviemaking, Indie Memphis is probably best known for hosting the annual Indie Memphis Film Festival in October and the monthly Micro Cinema Club short-film series at The Power House near South Main. Indie Memphis also hosts various events in support of local filmmakers and is co-sponsoring a series of screenings at the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art.

This year's Indie Memphis Film Festival is set for Oct. 8-15 at Malco's Studio on the Square.

Susan Schadt, ArtsMemphis president, said the challenge grant offers "an outstanding opportunity for the community to get behind one of the most powerful artistic voices in our city -- the Memphis independent film industry."

She said "the spirt of Indie Memphis" is "young" and "energetic" and "gives our emerging leaders ... a reason to call Memphis home."

The grant follows the most successful single fundraising event in the 12-year history of Indie Memphis: the April 30 premiere of Craig Brewer's "$5 Cover" project at the Malco Paradiso, which raised $12,000.

Starting at $30 a year (for students), Indie Memphis memberships allow free and discounted admission to various screenings, among other benefits. For more information or to become a member, visit indiememphis.com.

Red West in the acclaimed 'Goodbye Solo'

Red West -- actor, teacher and influence for many local film people -- stars in the critically acclaimed indie "Goodbye Solo" premiering in Memphis Friday at the Ridgeway. I saw the film and Red at the Toronto Film Festival last September and he and the film by Ramin Bahrani are terrific. Here's John Beifuss' story in the CA with a link to my video interview.

After a half-century in movies and television programs, Red West probably is better known as a longtime friend of Elvis and key member of the so-called "Memphis Mafia" than as an actor.

That perception is changing, however, thanks to West's new movie, "Goodbye Solo," which opens Friday at Malco's Ridgeway Four.

West will introduce the film before its first evening screening (7:25 p.m.) and will answer questions afterward.

An independent production that has earned rave reviews (The Washington Post this month dubbed it one of the "Top 5 Most Anticipated" movies of the season), "Goodbye Solo" gives the former Memphian top billing and the first lead role of his career, at an age when other actors are considering -- or being forced into -- retirement.

For the full story, go here.

Kudos for local documentary

Memphis Documentary Wins Film Festival Grand Prize

“I Am a Man: From Memphis, A Lesson in Life” received the Best Documentary award and Grand Prize at the Cape Fear Independent Film Festival held in Wilmington, North Carolina, last weekend. The modern-day look at the legacy of the Memphis sanitation workers who went on strike in 1968 is a Memphis Tourism Foundation project produced in partnership with Running Pony Productions and Old Bridge Media. The documentary has aired locally on WKNO-TV, and can be downloaded or ordered on DVD at www.iamamanthemovie.com. The website also contains additional material, and will soon include a companion curriculum guide for educators who wish to use the film as a teaching tool.

The 9th annual Cape Fear Independent Film Festival was the largest to date. The festival received more than 100 entries, and screened 54 films. “’I Am a Man’ is a powerful and moving film,” says Festival Director Jenn Goodman. “Before I saw it, I was completely unaware of the Memphis sanitation workers’ strike. So it’s a film I’m definitely glad I got to see.”

Since its completion in March, "I Am a Man" has begun appearing at film festivals nationwide. Besides its screening in Wilmington, the film was also an official selection at last weekend's Marfa Film Festival, in Marfa, Texas. Its next scheduled screening will be on Saturday, June 13 at the Breckenridge Festival of Film in Breckenridge, Colo.

Seeing the Truth

Here's John Beifuss at the CA on the DVD release of Memphis-filmed "Nothing But the Truth."

Rod Lurie, writer and director of "Nothing But the Truth," rejects the increasingly prevalent notion that watching a movie is an activity that's somehow more enjoyable after one has "turned off" one's brain.

"You definitely have to turn your brain on when you see my film," Lurie said from his Hollywood office. "I don't think that's such a bad thing."

Read the whole story here.

Weekly acting classes

Weekly Adult Acting Classes

Rooted in the Meisner technique and Michael Shurtleff’s Guidepost this class will use both scene study as well as industry sides to strengthen the actor’s skills. Through working on scenes and sides of different genres actors will be able to discover their strengths and weaknesses. The class will also focus on the process of the entertainment industry from picking a headshot to auditioning.

A few key skills you will learn:
‐creating real emotion (laughter, crying, etc.)
‐relating to your scene partner
‐character
‐script

Classes will be held at House of Talent, 714 N Germantown Pkwy, Cordova, TN 38018
Phone 901-527-9263
Tuesdays 7:00-8:30

Actors must sign up for classes the Friday before
$35 per class or $120 for 4 classes
Minimum class size 4
Ages 16+

Instructor:
Abby Elzemeyer: Attended Interlochen Arts Academy, NYU Tisch, and University of Alabama as a theater and film production major.
Worked in the education department at the Denver Center for Performing Arts.
-Has taught in the Theater Department of the University of Memphis as well as the Extended Education Program.
-Works locally as a talent agent & casting director for ETA.

For more information and to reserve your spot in the class call ETA at 901­527­9263

Extras for music video

Johnny Lee will be shooting his first music video and needs extras.

When: Sunday, May 10
Time: 10pm - until
Where: TGI Fridays
7733 Winchester Rd and Hacks Crossing
Attire: Nightclub Chic

For more information, please contact Johnny at
901-336-8206 (Cell)
901-752-1369 (Fridays)

Filmmaker workshop

Attention Filmmakers!!

LFM's Filmmaker Workshop #1 - Saturday, May 9th, 2009

Basic File Preparation and Exporting your Film for Festival Submission.

Register NOW: http://www.livefrommemphis.com/component/rsform/?formId=4

This workshop will be led by Jacob Abart, a video production and multi-media specialist, and will focus on the following subjects/issues:

aspect ratio

converting from HD (or HDV) to DV/NTSC

frame rates

letter-boxing

title-safe

If you've ever had a hard time exporting your film, or even if you just want to learn more about the process this workshop is for you! Subjects will be addressed on both Mac and PC platforms.

The workshop will be held Saturday, May 9th from 2 to 4pm at Powerhouse Memphis. The fee is $20 per person, but ONLY $10 if you've submitted a film to Li'l Film Fest before.

For questions please contact me!

Sarah Fleming

Co-Creator

Live From Memphis

==================

URL: www.livefrommemphis.com

EMAIL: sarah@livefrommemphis.com

PHONE: 901.523.9763

Memphis Music, Film and the Arts.

We support and promote local

Memphis musicians, filmmakers,

artists, and industry professionals

who are the lifeblood of our city.