"Nobody" screenings

"Nobody," the terrific documentary by Lance Murphey and Alan Spearman, just screened at the San Francisco Frozen Film Festival. Next up are screenings at the River's Edge International Film Festival in Paducah, Ky., Aug. 14-18.

Arts funding in Memphis

ArtsMemphis recently added 500 donors contributing the the local arts funding agency. But there's still a way to go. From a story in the CA:

According to figures from Americans for the Arts, about 26,000 donors contributed $7.9 million to Louisville's Fund for the Arts in 2007. ArtsMemphis, meanwhile, received about $3 million from just 2,300 donors.

"Our peer-city analysis is showing we are lagging behind not just in dollars ... but in number of donors," ArtsMemphis president and CEO Susan Schadt said. "That's something that needs to be underscored."

Since completing its rebranding last September, which included a new Web site, magazine and ad campaign in addition to a name change, ArtsMemphis [formerly the Greater Memphis Arts Council] has attracted an additional 500 donors.

Full story is here.

Craig Brewer's "$5 Cover" starts shooting July 18

From the CA:

Local movie-maker Craig Brewer says he has joined with MTV to create a "groundbreaking episodic serial" set in Memphis and cast entirely with Memphis musicians and actors "as they fight for love, inspiration and the money to pay the rent."

Shooting begins July 18 on "$5 Cover," a 15-episode -- or "webisode" -- online program funded by MTV that will be made available to viewers later this year via personal computers, cell phones, iPods and other digital devices that offer an alternative to watching films on TV or in movie theaters.

Full story here.

Tonight! You should go!!

Wednesday, July 9, 7:30 p.m.
Power House Memphis
The 42nd Meeting of the
Indie Memphis Micro Cinema Club
"Scenes from the Film Festival Circuit"

Join Indie Memphis' new executive director, Erik Jambor, for a special screening of some of his favorite shorts from the film festival circuit. Don't miss this rare opportunity to see what's in his head, and get a glimpse of what may be in store for the 11th annual Indie Memphis Film Festival this October 9-16.

The program will feature an eclectic mix of animation, comedy and drama, including:

THE CLIMACTIC DEATH OF DARK NINJA (13 min.) - Peter Craig's crowd-pleasing comedy about a frazzled auteur, struggling to shoot the climactic scene of his self-proclaimed martial arts masterpiece.

SCRIPT COPS (7 min.) - Scott Rice's hilariously irreverent parody about cops who arrest people for bad screenwriting.

EVERYTHING WILL BE OK (17 min.) - The latest film from Academy-award nominated animator Don Hertzfeldt (BILLY'S BALLOON, REJECTED), in which a series of dark and troubling events force Bill to reckon with the meaning of his life, or lack thereof.

And more!
Admission is FREE!
Refreshments will be available
including Beer, Wine, Sodas, and Popcorn.
Donations are appreciated.
Power House Memphis
45 GE Paterson
(between Front St. & Main)
Memphis, Tennessee 38103

Casting male indie lead

From Brad at Rusted Sun:

Rusted Sun Films and Last Train to Memphis Entertainment is looking for a white male between the ages of 20 and 35 for the lead male role in a fun and humorous vampire film. The perfect person for this role will be a short, small framed guy in good physical shape. Must have a good sense of humor.

If you fit this description or you think you have what it takes, send me a couple headshots and your resume including height and weight. If your headshots are huge, please shrink them to a decent size before sending them.

Cheers,
Brad
brad@rustedsunfilms.com

Disney's High School Musical 2 @ Collierville

WHO: Collierville's Harrell Theatre
WHAT: Disney's High School Musical 2: Live Onstage!
WHEN: July 17th- August 3rd

Everyone's favorite Wildcats are taking Collierville's Harrell
Theatre over beginning July 17th. The Wildcats are a rambunctious
bunch, as they sing, dance and swim in the upcoming world premiere of
Disney's High School Musical 2: Live Onstage!.

At each performance of Disney's High School Musical 2,
audience members can participate in a raffle, with one lucky person
winning every night. The winner will have the chance to be featured
onstage in the musical's rousing finale number. Proceeds from this
raffle will go to Madonna Learning Center.

High School Musical 2 tells the story of Troy Bolton, a basketball
playing singer, and his girlfriend, Gabriella Montez, a brainiac who
also has a knack for singing. The only thing standing in their way of
a perfect summer is the biggest diva of them all, Sharpay Evans. When
Troy, Gabriella and the rest of their friends get jobs at Sharpay's
country club, it is clear that Gabriella might have some competition.
As Sharpay begins to sink her claws into Troy, Troy's world is turned
upside down.

Disney's High School Musical 2 runs at the Harrell Theatre from July 17th to August 3rd. The theatre is located at 440 W. Powell Rd. in Collierville. The show is directed and choreographed by Amy Hanford and Music Directed by Angelo Rapan. Cassie Thompson is the assistant director and Megan Homas Campbell is the assistant choreographer. Holiday Ham is the corporate sponsor. Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for students and senior citizens. There are no group rates for this show. To order tickets, call the Harrell Theatre Box Office at (901) 853- 3228.
www.harrelltheatre.org

Extras needed Thursday 7-10

Award-winning filmmaker Kentucker Audley's new film is in production and extras are needed for a scene. The particulars:

Needed: Fifty (50) extras for "Law School Grad Party"

Ages: Early 20's to Late 30's
Attire: Semi-dressy (e.g. Sun Dresses, Ties)
When: Thursday, July 10, 2008. 6PM-10PM
Where: The Power House Gallery, 45 G.E. Patterson (West of S. Main)

There will be free drinks and food provided.

Kentucker is the award winning filmmaker of Team Picture, and Bright Sunny South. He was recently named to Filmmaker Magazines 2008 "Top 25 New Faces of Independent Film".

For additional information, please contact: sawedoff@sawedoffproductions.com

Art show recommended

Filmmaker and artist Eric Swartz is having an opening reception for his exhibition of photographs and paintings Saturday (7-5) at 6 p.m. at Republic Coffee, 2924 Walnut Grove.

And Saturna will be playing. Excellent!

So go, go, go...

Measures of success at the box office

Interesting article in Slate that points out that the usual box office figures come up short when measuring a film's popularity. The author discovers that, "Far from being elitist, movie critics are actually a pretty good barometer of popular taste."

Indie Memphis entries

Only a couple weeks left before the deadline submission for the Indie Memphis Film Festival. On Wednesday, Eric Jambor, executive director of IMFF, encouraged local filmmakers to get their works in and pointed out that Memphis directors can waive the entry fee on their first submission.

Submissions must have been completed after January 1, 2007 and may not be publicly exhibited (including being on TV) in Shelby County, Tennessee prior to the 2008 festival dates (excluding other Indie Memphis screenings). Films previously submitted to Indie Memphis will not be reconsidered.

Jambor said a limited screening not open to the public -- just for cast and crew, for example -- would not affect eligibility. The idea is that the film will have its premiere at Indie Memphis.

A film that has been screened for the public may be submitted if it has been substantially changed. "It would have to be a different work if re-edited," Jambor said, where the changes go beyond minor edits and tweaks.

Films will be categorized in competitive and non-competitive categories at the sole discretion of Indie Memphis. Films with theatrical distribution may not qualify for juried competition, but would still be eligible for audience awards. Instructional films, industrials and promotional videos are generally not appropriate for submission.

Submissions will be notified of their selection status on or around Sept. 8, 2008.

Reminder: Indie Memphis deadline

Film submission deadline for October's Indie Memphis Film Festival is tomorrow, although there's an extended deadline:
Regular Deadline: June 16
LATE DEADLINE: JULY 1
WAB Extended Deadline: July 15

Music Video Showcase call for entries

The 2008 Live From Memphis MUSIC VIDEO SHOWCASE announces a Call For Entries!

MEMPHIS (July 27, 2008) – Live From Memphis™ is announcing a “call for entries” for the 2008 Music Video Showcase.

This is the fourth annual Live From Memphis Music Video Showcase. Music Videos and EPKs (not exceeding 6 minutes in length) will be accepted through September 26, 2008.

In addition to our traditional “Best Music Video/EPK” award, we are happy to announce the addition of an “Audience Choice” award. If you are a local filmmaker or local band with a music video – submit it now! Deadline for entries is September 26, 2008.

This is your chance to ROCK THE BIG SCREEN!

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) 278-9077.

Actress 21-28; extras needed

From Timm Scalita:

I am seeking an intellegent and attractive actress between the ages of 21 - 28 for the lead role in my new feature length film, "Chelsea".

It is an abstract/surrealist/horror/suspense film about a young woman who finds herself in a living nightmare and must find a way out of the Dark road that she stumbled on to.

This project is written and directed by myself (Timm Scalita-Smoking Gnome productions) and is accociated with King productions, Knight entertainment and Falling For Grey.

If you are interested please contact me either on myspace.com/scalita1 or you can call me @ 901 281 3982.

I hope to hear from you soon.

Timm Scalita
Writer/Director

We will also need some extras for some key scenes where in you will get some face time and some small speaking parts.

Free film training workshop

The Memphis & Shelby County Film and Television Commission announces the scheduling of its second fee-free city/county-funded crew training workshops, “Inside the Production Office: How to be an Office Production Assistant: 101.” The Benjamin C. Hooks Central Library is an additional sponsor. The two-day, intensive workshop will be held at the Central Library all day Saturday, June 28th, and Sunday afternoon, June 29th.

The Commission Selection Committee will offer 30 class positions to legal residents of Memphis or Shelby County. Immediate availability to become a crew member, proven prior interest in film and television through studies and/or production work, and computer proficiency will enhance applications. A strong letter of recommendation is essential. Deadline for submission is the end of the business day June 20th. Those interested in applying should go to www.memphisfilmcomm.org to download the application form. (Minimum age for application is 18 years of age.)

The workshop will offer an introduction to what is really the hub or “nerve center” of any movie or large television show – the production office, where a team of close-knit office workers provides the support which holds a production together and moves it forward, day by day. Positions ranging from office production assistant to office production coordinator will be explained and illustrated against a general context of the workings of the film industry.

The workshop leader will be industry veteran Anne (“Andi”) McCaffrey, production supervisor on 20th Century Fox Television’s “Southern Comfort,” shot in Memphis in 2006. McCaffrey came to know Memphis well during her months living here while filming. According to McCaffrey, “I feel as though I started training Memphians back then … on the job … as I found the production office personnel available in Memphis to be inexperienced, although very eager to learn. I welcome the opportunity to return to what has become one of my favorite production cities!”

Successful graduates of “Inside the Production Office” will be qualified to receive a listing as an “office production assistant” in the next Memphis & Shelby County Film and Television Commission Production Directory. Moreover, graduates will be given priority consideration in selection for hiring through the Commission’s crew trainee program which provides partial refunds of crew trainee’s salaries to major film employers.

For more information, call The Commission Offices at 901-527-8300, ext. 3 or email linn@memphisfilmcomm.org

Willie Bearden doc

Wednesday, June 18, 7:30 p.m.
Indie Memphis
&
The Chickasaw Group Sierra Club
present
Willy Bearden's
"Overton Park, A Century of Change"



Overton Park has been the stage for much of Memphis' history for over 100 years. In its earliest incarnation it was the shining jewel of the Progressive Movement in Memphis, it was the public's backyard and front porch. In its boundaries lies the only old growth forest to be found in any urban setting. By the 1960s, efforts by powerful federal and state government agencies nearly spelled its doom with a plan to split the park with an interstate highway system. "Overton Park, A Century of Change" is the story of the park's founding, its brush with disaster, and its renaissance. Filmmaker Willy Bearden will be on hand to discuss the film. Old Forest Steward and surveyor, Don Richardson, will discuss some of the threats still facing the Park after 100 years.

Admission is FREE!
Refreshments will be available
including Beer, Wine, Sodas, and Popcorn.
Donations are appreciated.
Power House Memphis
45 GE Patterson
(between Front St. & Main)
Memphis, Tennessee 38103

Incentives, Tennessee-style

Theo Emery of the Tennessean in Nashville has a story on how the state landed "Hannah Montana," an instructive look at what it takes to make the most of the state's incentives. The full story is here.

Here's an excerpt:

Disney Pictures, which is producing the $28 million movie about Miley Cyrus' fictional alter ego Hannah Montana, almost didn't shoot in Nashville, or anywhere else in Cyrus' home state.

The movie is being made here because of the feverish efforts of the state Film, Entertainment and Music Commission and its executive director, Perry Gibson, to entice Disney with incentives that could be worth more than $3 million — without which the movie would have instead been filmed in Louisiana.

The Tennessean reviewed hundreds of Gibson's e-mail and text messages through a request under the state public records law. The correspondence illustrates the lengths to which state officials must go to attract movies, which have become prizes in an escalating competition between states to offer tax breaks and rebates for film studios.

Personal ties and the power of handshakes played a role in bringing Disney to Tennessee. Records also indicate that the commission sent bundles of potential crew resumes to Disney, with names flagged for special attention, to convince executives that there was enough experienced labor in Tennessee for the company to qualify for the state's incentives.

Gibson, whom Gov. Phil Bredesen appointed in early 2007, also helped smooth over questions about whether out-of-state cast and crew — including Cyrus and her family — qualified for incentives and personally provided Disney with resumes of Tennesseans in the industry.

In an interview last week, Gibson said every production gets the same treatment, but Disney could set an important precedent in persuading other studios to film big-budget features in Tennessee.

"We needed one production to come here and do really, really well. If they come to a state, and it goes really, really well, they tell everyone," she told The Tennessean. "Disney is so tough, and productions like NBC-Universal say, 'If Disney comes here, we'll be second.' "

As states increase incentives, competition for movies has become fierce, said Bill Lindstrom, CEO of the Association of Film Commissioners International. He said Gibson's efforts demonstrate what must be done in the fight for attention from Hollywood.

"She's a perfect example of the sort of work that a film commission does to do that job right and go the extra mile to make sure it's done right," he said.

Seeking your vote

From Arnold Edwards II of Cowboy Up Productions:

It is official! Our NIN music video has been accepted by the NIN group (host of the NIN music video festival). Please check it out again, encourage your friends and family to look at it, and vote for us!

http://youtube.com/watch?v=JtltM5Q3_60

Training workshop 1 a success; No. 2 about to be announced

Very shortly, Linn Sitler, Commissioner of The Memphis & Shelby County Film and Television Commission is going to announce the next film crew training workshop. Here's her wrapup of the one held last weekend:

The Memphis & Shelby County Film and Television Commission's first technical training workshop last weekend was a huge success! We've received an overwhelmingly positive response from the 40 graduates of "Memphis Movie U: How to Be a Set Production Assistant." Written responses from our first graduating class include such descriptions as : "inspiring"..."fantastic educational experience"..."a magnificent endeavor." We're even getting thank-you letters from parents.

This brand-new city/county-funded training workshop series is patterned after several of the most progressive workforce development crew training programs in the U.S. and Canada. What's different about this publicly-funded training program? First, applicants must compete for a place in the workshop; secondly, it's free to the successful applicant -- no fees! And, as it's funded by local taxpayer dollars, only legal residents of Memphis or Shelby County can be accepted.

Also, the make-up of our first workshop's student body was truly representative of Memphis & Shelby County --- a diverse group of women and men of all ages from throughout Memphis, Bartlett, Germantown, Lakeland, Cordova, Collierville, and Arlington. Some had production experience and/or training; others had none. Educational levels ranged from a G.E.D. diploma to an M.A. from Harvard--all in the same class of 40. Finally, workshop graduates will have priority consideration for real production jobs --- from those employers who wish to take advantage of incentives offered by the City/County/Commission to hire them!

Like our first workshop's teacher, film and t.v. producer James Spies ("The Contender"..."Commander-in-Chief"), the instructor of future workshops will always be a nationally-known industry veteran. Besides spending time with Spies over the two days during the 10 hours of intense instruction, students were also thrilled by a surprise lunchtime visit from Memphis filmmaker Craig Brewer. Long-time local crew members Ty Coke (Gaffer: I.A.-Studio Mechanics) and Talent Agent Lisa Lax also spent time answering students' questions about their respective fields.

Indie Memphis update

A few things regarding Indie Memphis:

The festival, which will run Oct. 9-16, needs volunteers and now is not too soon to get in on it. Hit up its Web site and connect.

Also, the call for entries has been out for a while now and local filmmakers should keep in mind that Memphis directors may take an entry fee waiver on their first submission to the festival. Incentives rule.

Note that this week is the next Indie Memphis Micro Cinema Club #41: RURAL ROUTE TOUR - Encore Presentation. It's at 7:30 pm Wednesday, June 11 @ Power House Memphis. Created to highlight works that deal with rural people and place, this year's Rural Route Tour features both fun and serious films from all around the world. Including, arctic owls in Montana, Canadian lawnmower races, a film about light pollution, dancers in the snowy Norwegian tundra, a man's search for his ancestors in Lithuania and some good, 'ol banjo playin' at a Kentucky old folks home. Total running time is 97 minutes.

And here's an item from Film Festival Secrets blog on Erik Jambor who has taken on the role of executive director of Indie Memphis.

Memphis Belle doc wins recognition

From Ken Axmaker:

We were informed today that our documentary (that gets no respect in our hometown of Memphis) about our lost icon, The Memphis Belle, has won 2nd place at the BareBones Int'l Film Festival. After being turned down by several local TV stations and film festivals because of controversial content, we are glad to see that the "Memphis Belle -- The Final Chapter in Memphis" is being seen by people outside of Memphis as a true story of what happens when a city's icon is taken away because of a lack of interest by the community.

Watch the (newly) award-winning film, "The Memphis Belle -- The Final Chapter in Memphis":

Part 1:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wKzpTZSpUgE

Part 2:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f9Z_nONG7x8


Ken Axmaker, Jr
www.LastTraintoMemphis.com

Another local indie film in west coast fest

Brian Pera's Memphis-filmed "The Way I See Things" has its World Premiere July 12 at Outfest 2008 -- the 26th annual Los Angeles Gay & Lesbian Film Festival.

Synopsis: After the unexpected death of his longtime boyfriend, Otto’s world has fallen apart. Hoping to snap him out of his funk, his buddy Rob drags him on a cross-country road trip, but Otto escapes and winds up at a new-agey commune where members are encouraged to get in touch with their “authentic self.” Understated and quirky, "The Way I See Things" is a deeply satisfying emotional journey about processing grief, self-discovery and moving forward.

New LTTM's Shorts Fest this month

LTTM's Shorts Fest is all new for June starting this weekend!

Episode 18 is one of the best yet. Hosted by Memphis' own super starlet, Monica Summerfield. The films are a classic mix of vintage Memphis films, to Memphis natives making films in LA, to future projects to be shot in Memphis.

We would also like to thank all those that came out to the FABA Bash at the Hi-Tone to support LTTM's future project, 5 Shots. It was a big success and it was good to see the local support for Memphis film!

THE PREVIEW:

5 Shots- The Ronald Baldridge Story: A future project by LTTM directed by Ken Axmaker, Jr. and written by Wasabi Jones

THE FILMS:

"Extra Extra"- directed by Matthew Goodman and produced by Bartlett native Dawn Higginbotham.

Extra Extra is the story of Heather who's just come to Hollywood in hopes of breaking into showbiz. She realizes that even being an extra is competitive as she witnesses the ultimate battle for coveted a "union voucher." In her quest she learns the lengths people will go to; she learns how to stand up for herself; and she learns that true love can happen even behind the scenes.

"Flipping Coins"- directed by Tony Bloodworth.

From the Last Train to Memphis Indie film archives, Flippin' Coins is a 5 Takes of Nothing Picture and starring, Allison Christian, Joel Pope and Memphis film icon, J.W. Williams.


MUSIC FOR ENDING CREDITS:

"Missed Parker" sung by Matt Isbell and Rock Lotto from the Rock Lotto album.

THE TIMES are always the same:

Sunday- midnight
Thursday- 2a.m.
Thursday- 10:30 PM
Saturday- 1:30a.m.
Saturday- 11pm
This is a weekly schedule that will begin this weekend.

Be sure to tune in all June long to see some great Memphis talent. We are accepting entries again! If you want info on how to enter, email: info@LastTraintoMemphis.com.

Indie Memphis Micro Cinema Club #41

Rural Route Tour - Encore Presentation
7:30 pm Wednesday, June 11 @ Power House Memphis
Admission is free, donations are recommended.

The Rural Route Film Festival was created to highlight works that deal with rural people and places. This year's "Rural Route Tour" program leans towards the artistic and documentary films, with both fun and serious pieces from all around the world. Arctic owls in Montana, Canadian lawnmower races, films about light pollution, a Ukrainian poetic peasant masterpiece, dancers in the snowy Norwegian tundra, plastic lawn deer lost in Brooklyn, a man's captivating search for his ancestors in Lithuania, and some good, 'ol banjo playin' at a Kentucky old folks home. Total running time is 97 minutes.

Remember My Blueberry Nights? Oh yeah! Here it is...

From John Beifuss in the CA:

Did you participate as an extra or crew member during the shooting of "My Blueberry Nights" in August of 2006 in downtown Memphis ?

If so, you’ll at last have a chance to see your work or yourself (if you made the cut) on the big screen on May 30, when the latest film from acclaimed Hong Kong auteur Wong Kar-wai opens in Memphis for a run of at least a week, exclusively at Malco’s Studio on the Square.

Wong’s first English-language film and his first to be shot in America, “My Blueberry Nights” is a romantic road movie set in Memphis, Las Vegas and New York that stars Norah Jones, Rachel Weisz, Jude Law, David Strathairn, Natalie Portman and Tony Award-winning Memphian Adriane Lenox. The movie debuted in May of 2007 at the Cannes Film Festival, to mixed reviews; with distribution in the U.S. by The Weinstein Company, it opened April 4 in New York and Los Angeles, and has been slowly expanding into other cities since. (As of this weekend, it has played in a total of only 69 U.S. theaters.)

Reposting: Deadline extended for free workshop

Announcement from The Memphis & Shelby County Film and Television Commission on a tuition-free film/TV workshop June 7 and 8:

James Spies, nationally known film and television producer ("Nothing But the Truth," "The Contender," "Commander-in-Chief"), returns to Memphis to lead the first of The Memphis & Shelby County Film and Television Commission's long-awaited crew training workshops.

Spies will lead the first workshop at the University of Memphis, June 7 and 8.

"Breaking into Film and Getting Your First Job," is a two-day, 10-hour intensive workshop covering everything from using a walkie-talkie to set procedures and protocol to learning about gripping and gaffing.

Applicants must possess proof of residency in Memphis and Shelby County (driver's license preferred), be at least 18 years of age or 18 on the next birthday, and be chosen by The Workshop #1 Selection Committee. The workshop application process is competitive; space is limited to thirty (30) students.

Applications can be downloaded from The Commission’s website: www.memphisfilmcomm.org and faxed along with proof of residency and a letter of reference from professor, teacher or work supervisor to: (901)-527-8326. All questions should be emailed to info@memphisfilmcomm.org.
Applications must be received by the end of the business day on Monday, June 2. Successful applicants will be notified.

To graduate, workshop attendees must complete with a passing grade a final on-line test, covering topics discussed during the two days of class. Workshop graduates will be eligible for priority consideration for jobs through The Commission’s wage refund film trainee program on future qualified productions based in Memphis and Shelby County. Additionally, graduates will qualify for listing as “Production Assistants” in the next edition of The Memphis & Shelby County Film and Television Commission Production Directory.

This workshop is part of The Memphis & Shelby County Film and Television Incentive Program and as such encourages the active recruitment and training of women and Memphis & Shelby County citizens of diverse ethnicities.

Casting call

Casting Call ...... Female lead role for a FUN film

We are looking for a talented, hardworking and VERY dependable actress to play lead in an upcoming feature film. We would like someone in her 20's or 30's, attractive, athletic, medium to small build. Must be willing to train or must know some martial arts. Must be willing to be topless briefly in a couple of scenes. Contact me for more info.

This is a fun vampire/comedy film being shot by a local production company in Memphis that has produced 3 feature films, 8 short films 4 documentary films (a couple have been aired on national television.)

If interested, please send a headshot and resume to:
brad@rustedsunfilms.com

Tricks World Premiere June in LA

DeAara Lewis' "Tricks" has its World Premiere at the Hollywood Black Film Festival on June 5 at 8:30 p.m. in Laemmle Music Hall in Beverly Hills.

From the HBFF site:
"She thought she played her cards right, she quietly left the city, and she quietly re-emerged, years later. Opening up a massage parlor and with the business tact she inherited from Doug Sullivan, she knew how to increase her revenue quickly - offer massages with 'happy endings.' It was a clever idea that quickly took off, yet still remained secretive enough to only reach the ears of those who understood the language. The parlor also brought in the women, each with her own reasons for wanting to work, each fiercely devoted to Donna in one way or another. Yes, Doug Sullivan taught her well.But then there was still Sebastian Crump, who believed Donna was responsible for the death of Doug Sullivan and the theft of over two hundred thousand dollars of Sullivan's money. Sebastian wanted her to repay the money that was stolen. Donna had to figure out a way to raise that kind of money in a short amount of time without bankrupting her business. She concocted an idea - host an after party for a famous artist who had a concert coming through town. Crump reluctantly agreed, but warned her if anything went wrong, he was shutting her down. As the event approaches, each woman has to make a tough decision. But the decision is not at all about leaving the business, but in her own way, learning how to be loved and accepted with no apologies in the world's oldest profession."

omg/HaHaHa World Premiere June in NY

From Morgan Jon Fox:

Sawed-Off Collaboratory Productions' feature film, omg/HaHaHa, written/directed by Morgan Jon Fox, is having its WORLD PREMIERE Saturday June 14th 8:30pm at the AMC LOEWS 34TH ST Cineplex in NewYork City.

I don't know if any of you were at the sneak preview of the film in late '07, but this will be the first screening of the final version, which is almost 20 minutes shorter, with many changes to the edit.

The film was selected to be apart of NEWFEST, the 20th Annual NewYork GLBT Film Fest. We are very delighted to have such a prime time slot in a well respected film fest.

As a result, just in the last week we've received invitations from 12 other festivals to screen the film, and 3 different US distributers and an Israel-based international distributer have expressed interest in obtaining the film. HURRAH!

From the NEWFEST website: "Cleverly reflective of today’s YouTube/MySpace generation, and shot in an improvisational, documentary style, OMG/HaHaHa opens a window to the lives of several young people in Memphis, TN. A teenager’s video blog frames the various stories, as he introduces his circle of friends and their troubles – from unexpected pregnancy to homophobia, break-ups to dying parents. From its attractive and talented actors’ naturalistic performances to its perfectly chosen soundtrack, OMG/HaHaHa impresses with a unique and inviting charm."

Link to our new ads for the film: Front and Back.

Many of the actors will be making the trip to represent. Just spreadin the word...we are excited. Keep updated on all sawed-off's projects by checking our website: www.sawedoffproductions.com

FABA -- Saturday -- don't miss it

HBO's "Recount" -- the Memphis connection

Michael Hausman, who did four films in Memphis ("The People vs. Larry Flynt," "A Family Thing," "American Saint," "The Firm") is producer of "Recount" that's on HBO Sunday. The film is a look at the events in Florida following the 2000 election -- you remember the lawsuits, the hanging chads, Katherine Harris, yes?

In addition, Gerry Byrne was production supervisor and post-production supervisor (he did three of the four films in Memphis with Professor Hausman) and Scott Ferguson who is unit production manager on "Recount" did all four films in Memphis with Hausman.

And we'd love to have you guys back, anytime...

Free 2-day crew workshop: A must if you want to work in productions

Announcement from The Memphis & Shelby County Film and Television Commission on a tuition-free film/TV workshop June 7 and 8:

James Spies, nationally known film and television producer ("Nothing But the Truth," "The Contender," "Commander-in-Chief"), returns to Memphis to lead the first of The Memphis & Shelby County Film and Television Commission's long-awaited crew training workshops. Spies will lead the first workshop at the University of Memphis, June 7 and 8.
"Breaking into Film and Getting Your First Job," is a two-day, 10-hour intensive workshop covering everything from using a "walkie-talkie" to set procedures and protocol to learning about "gripping" and "gaffing."
Applicants must possess proof of residency in Memphis and Shelby County (driver's license preferred), be at least 18 years of age or 18 on the next birthday, and be chosen by The Workshop #1 Selection Committee. The workshop application process is competitive; space is limited to thirty (30) students. Applications can be downloaded from The Commission’s website: www.memphisfilmcomm.org and faxed along with proof of residency and a letter of reference from professor, teacher or work supervisor to: (901)-527-8326. All questions should be emailed to info@memphisfilmcomm.org.
Applications must be received by the end of the business day on Thursday, May 29. Successful applicants will be notified Monday, June 2 if chosen by The Workshop #1 Selection Committee.
To graduate, workshop attendees must complete with a passing grade a final on-line test, covering topics discussed during the two days of class. Workshop graduates will be eligible for priority consideration for jobs through The Commission’s wage refund film trainee program on future qualified productions based in Memphis and Shelby County. Additionally, graduates will qualify for listing as “Production Assistants” in the next edition of The Memphis & Shelby County Film and Television Commission Production Directory.
This workshop is part of The Memphis & Shelby County Film and Television Incentive Program and as such encourages the active recruitment and training of women and Memphis & Shelby County citizens of diverse ethnicities.

Indie Memphis deadlines

Entry Deadlines: May 20 / June 16 / July 1 / July 15

The 11th annual Indie Memphis Film Festival is now accepting submissions from independent filmmakers across the country, in any style or genre. The festival utilizes Memphis' rich cultural 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. Indie Memphis builds bridges that inspire filmmakers and film lovers to collaborate and connect amongst the unique creative landscape that is the home of the Blues and the birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll.

Indie Memphis doc presentation

Indie Memphis is presenting a special screening of the Big Muddy Film Festival award-winner CONSIDERING DEMOCRACY: 8 THINGS TO ASK YOUR REPRESENTATIVE at Malco’s Studio on the Square (2105 Court Avenue) on Monday, May 19 at 7 pm. Filmmaker Keya Lea Horiuchi will be in attendance to answer questions and lead the discussion. Tickets are $5 at the door.

Have you ever wondered about what the rest of the world thinks about the United States? More importantly, what is true about the things people say? CONSIDERING
DEMOCRACY seeks to stimulate discussion and move the American debate toward
finding solutions. Based on interviews and scenes from outside of the United States, each section of the film playfully explores the views with statistical comparisons. It looks at seemingly different topics while creating a tapestry of tantalizing information that becomes interwoven and interconnected, while providing concise information and a question to further the debate.

CONSIDERING DEMOCRACY brings refreshing points of view to the political
discussion, while bringing a new meaning to the term of independent filmmaking, the
filmmaker having traveled across 10 countries by herself, and produced, directed, shot,
and edited the film. The rest of the world is a source of intelligence that acts as a
beautiful, yet pragmatic reflection of political power in the United States.

For more information, please visit indiememphis.com or consideringdemocracy.com.

Live From Memphis

The Flyer has a story on Christopher Reyes and LiveFromMemphis.com. Check it out here.

Excerpts:

"We didn't want to just go out there and do things by ourselves. That's the whole idea of community — working together. But people don't want to work together; they want their own little corner, their own piece of the pie."
--Christopher Reyes

"With a minimal staff and totally self-funded, Live From Memphis is an exhaustive central location to listen to bands, find out about bands, buy music, and find out about events around town."
--Goner Records' Eric Friedl.

Highly recommended

May 14, 2008 @ 7:30 pm

Power House Memphis in association with Indie Memphis present:

The Indie Memphis Micro Cinema Club #40

A Selection of Turkish Short Films

in Honor of this years Memphis in May selected Country

A selection of the award-winning Turkish films representing the best in Turkish cinema will connect you with the progressive movie scene in Turkey.
These cutting-edge shorts are selected winners from the Ankara Film Festival featuring animation, drama, humor and thought-provoking subjects.

Films will begin promptly at 7:30 pm @ The Power House

45 G.E. Patterson
(between Front St. & Main)

Admission is FREE!

Refreshments will also be available

including Beer, Wine, Sodas, and Popcorn
donations are recommended!

Mississippi incentives

LEGISLATION CREATES NEW INCENTIVES FOR MISSISSIPPI’S FILM INDUSTRY

Jackson, Miss. (May 13, 2008) – Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour has signed HB 1351, creating new incentives for the motion picture and television industry. The rebate program applies to feature, television, documentary and commercial production, and is effective immediately.

“The film industry is important to Mississippi, as it is an industry in constant growth,” Governor Barbour said. “We consider ours a long term commitment to community and economic development and to the creation of jobs in all sectors in every corner of our state.”

The new program creates a 20% rebate on a production’s local spend in Mississippi. There is already a sales tax exemption of 7% on most production items and a sales tax exemption of 5½% on most production equipment.

It also creates a 25% rebate on the salaries of Mississippi residents and a 20% rebate on the salary of non-resident cast and crew. The rebate applies to the first $1 million of any individual salary.

There is a $20,000 minimum spend, an $8 million per project cap and a $20 million annual cap. The rebate is issued within 45 days of completion of production in Mississippi.

“The changes this year clarify and streamline our rebate program, said Gray Swoope, Executive Director of the Mississippi Development Authority (MDA). “We worked very closely with the Film Office and with the State Tax Commission to assure that it works smoothly.”

Presently, Mississippi is building workforce training programs at both the private and community college levels and enhancing the long-standing film program at the University of Southern Mississippi with a new campus on the Gulf Coast. There is sound stage and support service development in the works in several areas of the state.

“Through this incentive program, combined with the variety of our locations, the support of our communities and the commitment of the Barbour administration and our Legislature, we are looking forward to a long history of filmmaking,” adds Ward Emling, Director of MDA’s Mississippi Film Office.

Over the last several years, Mississippi locations have been seen in O BROTHER, WHERE ART THOU?, BIG BAD LOVE, WALK THE LINE, BLACK SNAKE MOAN, and the Sundance winning, BALLAST.

Association for the Future of Film and Television in Tenn.

Just received this press release:

The Association for the Future of Film and Television (AFFT) recently announced their formation and plans to begin a membership drive across the state for individual members and corporate partners.

“An organization of this kind is vital to the growth and well-being of the film and television industry in Tennessee,” said Jan Austin, former Deputy Director of the Tennessee Film, Entertainment & Music Commission as well as founder and Executive Director of AFFT. “The industry has never had an organization like this to represent them and to work on their behalf at the legislative level. In this climate of relentless competition nationwide for film and television projects, it is imperative that we make every effort to keep our state and it’s entertainment industry attractive to potential projects.”

The Association for the Future of Film and Television will focus on three goals:

1. To affect legislation in the State of Tennessee that benefits the film, television and video production industries and those associated with it.

2: To inform and educate those in the film, television and video production industries about proposed, active or unsuccessful legislation affecting the industry.

3. To promote the common interests of the industries at the legislative level.

“We expect to use funds raised through memberships and corporate underwriting to drive the Association and to hire a lobbyist to help with our efforts within Tennessee’s General Assembly,” says Roger Hodges, Executive Producer of Firefly Film & Video of Nashville and President of AFFT. “AFFT is also forming a political action committee (PAC) to support state and local candidacies of those who are supportive of our industry in general and of our individual efforts.”

The Association requires that two Directors from each of four areas – East Tennessee, Middle Tennessee, West Tennessee and Chattanooga – serve on the Board. The Board of Directors for 2008 – 2010 are as follows:

East Tennessee: Michael Samstag (Knoxville Films); Juanell Walker (Talent Trek Agency)

Middle Tennessee: Gael Armstrong (Ground Zero Post); Scott Hallgren (Scootman Music Productions)

West Tennessee: Pam Branham (Younger Associates); Rod Starns/Jonathan Epstein (Running Pony Productions)

Chattanooga: Bob Hotchkiss (Cornerstone of America): Dave Porfiri (Mindflow Media, LLC)

A one-year membership in AFFT is $25. Membership is open to everyone in the film and television industry as well as anyone who is interested in the future of the industry. For more information about or to join the Association for the Future of Film and Television, please visit the website at www.affttennessee.org or call (615) 797-4333.

Morgan Jon Fox film premiere

Hannah Montana extras

EXTRAS needed for a Major Motion Picture based on a hit television
series starring a well known Pop Teen Sensation. We are filming in the
Goodlettsville area in June. We are Seeking adults age 18 - 99 years
to portray extras in the film. No experience necessary. Types needed –
Adults who can portray Townspeople, Upscale Shoppers, Wait Staff,
Farmer Types, Beverly Hills Types, Blue Collar Types & Civic Types.
Men - All ethnicities age 18 years to 99 years. Women – All
ethnicities age 18 years to 99 years. No additional children or teens
are requested at this time. We are especially interested in minorities
& age 50 plus. Saturday, May 10, 10 am - 2 pm, Rivergate Mall - Center
Court (in front of JC Penney), 1000 Rivergate Parkway, Goodlettsville,
TN 37072. Note: Please do not call the mall for information. For
directions, please go to: www.rivergate- mall.com. Everyone MUST bring
a recent snapshot no larger than 4" x 6" & a pen. (photo is not
returnable). If you do not bring a photo, you will not be considered.

Acting and dance classes

Graham Cooper's Teen/Senior Acting Class is moving from Sunday at 2:00Pm
to Saturday at 2:00PM. He is helping with the Poplar Pike Playhouse's
current musical.

We have added an Adult Hip Hop Class with Maxx Reed on Tuesday evening
6:30 - 7:30 PM!!!!!

* The above classes are effective immediately.

Deanna
H.O.T.
714 Germantown suite 1
Phone: 755-6878
http://www.houseoftalentmemphis.com/Contact.php

Acting classes at TM

What is the job of an actor? Can acting be simplified?

In this intergenerational class students discuss, practice, and observe the art of acting with the goal of establishing a system tailored made for that individual actor. Basic Acting is a fit for students at every level of skill. Students will work alone and in groups searching for “a way to live truthfully under imaginary circumstances of the play.” This is a discovery and working class, so students are up and doing a good percentage of the time and should come ready to move. Combining youths and adults in the class allows all students to approach a wide variety of roles and conditions. Ages 13 and up are welcome.





Saturdays 10- 11:30 AM

Starting June 14th

Ending July 19th

Price $100

Instructor: Henry McDaniel



Please contact Davanna Jared for more information or to register: djared@... 901.682.5261

Screening party Wednesday

Actress needed, mid-20s

From dan@greenbeetlestudio.com:

I'm looking for a lead for my 10 minute short Plain Jane. I need a young woman in her mid 20's, brunet preferably, for the role of Jane. The character is supposed to be plain, so no crazy hair, tattoos, piercing, etc... She will need to commit to 4 full days of shooting (or 5-8 partial days, schedule is somewhat flexible), at least one rehearsal, and an ADR session.

Shooting will likely take place mid May.

Auditions will be by appointment, they can e-mail me at dan@greenbeetlestudio.com, Submit photo.

Indie Memphis names director

John Beifuss in the CA reports on the appointment of a director of Indie Memphis:

With the enthusiasm of revival-tent evangelists preaching the good word about the power of the movies, a Memphis millionaire and a filmfest veteran from Alabama have joined forces to try to elevate the Indie Memphis Film Festival to a "world-class level" as it enters its second decade.

Erik Jambor of Birmingham has been selected as the first-ever salaried executive director of Indie Memphis. The position is being funded by investment capitalist Bob Compton as part of a $100,000 grant that will help the festival triple its operating budget this year, as Indie Memphis becomes a fully independent entity.Compton says the Compton Family Foundation grant is an investment in Memphis and the Mid-South, not just in the Memphis film community.

"Memphis is talent- and creativity-rich and leadership- and capital-poor," said Compton, 52, who has earned national attention recently with his own film, "Two Million Minutes: A Global Examination," a documentary that advocates U.S. education reform. "I want to help develop the filmmakers and get them more exposure, which will help the city.

"I've made my fortune, and now I want to make a difference," he added. "I want to help make this a 21st century film festival."

Jambor, 37, says he wants Indie Memphis "to build connections and community, and that's both on the audience side and the filmmaker side."

For the full story, go here.

Indie film showcase Monday

Local indie filmmakers will have a screening of their works this coming Monday, April 21 at
7 pm at Malco Studio on the Square.

Here's the info:

YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO THE TENNESSEE LIMOUSINE SERVICE FILM MAKERS SHOWCASE FEATURING MEMPHIS INDIE SELECTION "ZOMBIEZ," DIRECTED JESSICA POWERS, "PLASTER BABBLE," A ONE-MAN NARRATIVE BY JOHN FUESS, "L'Hippopotame Vert FTW!," DIRECTED BY EDWARD VALIBUS PHILLIPS, "OUR ATTIC," A SCARY SHORT BY DON MYERS, ROB WINFREY'S ADAPTATION OF EDGAR ALLEN POE'S "THE TELL-TALE HEART," AND THE PULP FICTION FILM, "CHERRY POPPIN," DIRECTED BY JOHN SIMPSON.

ALL THE DIRECTORS PLAN TO ATTEND AND WILL ANSWER QUESTIONS FROM THE AUDIENCE. YOU WILL ALSO SEE THE WORK OF LOCAL CINEMATOGRAPHERS, SOUND, LIGHTING AND EDITING ENGINEERS. PREVIEW THE TALENTS OF LOCAL ACTORS AND MUSICIANS. WE HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE AND LET'S HAVE SOME FUN.

THANKS
DORV ARMOUR

PLEASE, NO ONE UNDER 17 ADMITTED WITHOUT PARENT OR
GUARDIAN. VIOLENCE AND STRONG LANGUAGE.

Film tonight

“Blue Vinyl”
Wednesday, April 16, 7:30 p.m.

Presented by

The Chickasaw Group Sierra Club

@ Power House Memphis

45 G.E. Patterson

(between Main and Front Streets)

When filmmaker Judith Helfand’s parents decide to replace the rotting wood siding on their suburban home with cheaper, more durable blue vinyl, Helfand embarks on a quest to find out whether it's possible "to make products that never hurt anyone at any point in their life cycle." Toting a slab of siding, Helfand travels to Lake Charles, Louisiana, the vinyl capital of the United States. What she uncovers there, and in another manufacturing center, Venice, Italy, is enough to convince even her stubborn parents to take the vinyl down. Nominated for two Emmys, the film won the 2002 Messenger of the Year Award from the Environmental Grantmakers Association.

Last chance to vote

Here's an item from John Beifuss in the CA:

To quote Snuffy Smith: Time's a-wastin'! Because five video finalists now await your view and your vote at the ArtsMemphis Website in the "Our Vibe. Our City. On Film" contest, which ends Monday.

Selected last month by Web site voters from 12 semifinalists, the five short films are "Indie Dreams," by Donald Meyers; "Shredder," by Jon W. Sparks; "Blues," by Harmony Stewart; "The Warble Atelier," by Andy Strong; and "I Am Art" by Billy Worley.

Each under five minutes in length, the films are intended to promote the idea that Memphis is home to a vibrant art community with its own special "vibe."

On April 30, ArtsMemphis will host an awards celebration and screening of the top five films at Malco's Studio on the Square. First prize is $2,000, and a slot in October's Indie Memphis Film Festival. Second prize is $750; third prize is $500.

To view the films and vote, visit artsmemphis.org.

LTTM is back!

LTTM's Shorts Fest is back!

(corrected schedule)

After many pleading emails (and some threats) to bring back the show, LTTM's Shorts Fest has returned with a vengeance with some terrific films. The host for this episode is the always lovely Memphis actress, Melissa Walker.

THE FILMS:

'Central Garden'- directed by Kaleo Quenzer and the guys at Find Grind Films.

'On The Road'- directed by Matt Isbell. Follow The Daddy Mack Blues Band on tour from Memphis to L.A. and back.

MUSIC FOR ENDING CREDITS:

'Jump On' sung by Kim Richards from the True North album.

THE TIMES are always the same all April long:

Sunday- midnight
Thursday- 2a.m.
Thursday- 10:30 PM
Saturday- 1:30a.m.
Saturday- 11pm


Thanks to all entrants. Remember, just because your film was not selected for this month, it does not mean it won’t be shown in a future episode. This is a monthly program.

Scheduling times are as follows and are subject to change. Check with the Library Channel, (18),
website or our website for changes. This is a weekly schedule that will begin on Apr 4 .

http://www.lasttraintomemphis.com/

On Location: wrapup

From On Location:

The 2008 On Location: Memphis international film fest is a wrap! 93 films from 20 different countries and the U.S. found new audiences and fans during this 4 day annual fest! More than 100 filmmakers, producers, directors and actors converged on Memphis, March 27-30 to celebrate independent filmmaking with 4 days of films, workshops and networking opportunities. Among those who came from around the globe was Adrian Belic, whose movie, "Ghengis Blues," was nominated for an Academy Award. Belic was in Memphis for the showing of “Ghengis Blues” and his newest documentary, "Beyond the Call," which he wrote, produced, directed and filmed.. "This is one of those wonderful local regional festivals that filmmakers and fans come to just have fun, for the sheer pleasure of independent films," Adrian said. "I'm astonished how many filmmakers are here. That's rare."

Awards were given out on Thursday, March 27, at Malco’s state-of-the art Paradiso Theatre just before the Opening Night film, “Delta Rising”, the Clarksdale, Miss.-centered music documentary filmed at Morgan Freeman’s Ground Zero Blues Club. "Low and Behold," a movie about a young insurance claims adjuster unprepared for the physical and emotional wreckage of post-Katrina New Orleans, was named Best Narrative Feature. "Knowledge Is the Beginning", about an orchestra of Arab and Israeli young people, was named Best Documentary. "The Second Line" another Katrina-inspired film, was award the Best Short. The Best Animated Film was the short, "Raccoon and Crawfish" with the Music Video award going to "Falling from Mars" by singer Alyssa Campbell. In a special presentation, Jimmy Tashie, SVP of Malco Theatres, was given the first OL:M VISION Award – presented to those in the community who have shown tremendous support and vision for the filmmaking industry in Memphis.



Standing room only workshops included industry professionals such as Linn Sitler of the Memphis and Shelby County Film & Television Commission, James Spies director of “Nothing But The Truth”, actress Renee O’Connor from “XENA: The Warrior Princess”, Brent Heyning from ToyShoppe Productions, Jeffery Clanagan, CEO of Code Black Entertainment and legendary composer Dennis Lambert ("Ain't No Woman Like The One I've Got," "One Tin Soldier", "Nighshift", and "Rhinestone Cowboy.

" Lisa Bobal, OL:M Programming and Marketing Director says, "We are already planning for the 10th anniversary On Location: Memphis international film fest - in fact, I've even asked Dennis Lambert to write a song for us!"

TV/Film acting workshop

There are still 3 spaces available in Theatre Memphis’s Acting for Film and TV workshop.

For more information or to register please contact Davanna Jared. djared@... 901.682.5261



Instructor: Suzanna Leigh

Assistant: Stefani Everson

Mondays, 5:30 to 7 pm

Mar. 31 to May 19, 2008

Cost: $120

Craig Brewer adds another project

Chris Herrington in the Flyer reports on Craig Brewer's latest venture as mentioned in Variety:

... Paramount Vantage, the studio that produced Brewer's last film, Black Snake Moan, has optioned the rights to Columbia University professor Sudhir Venkatesh's book Gang Leader for a Day: A Rogue Sociologist Takes to the Streets, with Brewer attached to direct.

Sopranos writer Michael Caleo has been tabbed to handle the script, with Stephanie Allain, Brewer's partner in his Southern Cross the Dog production company, set to produce. ...

Go here for the full story.

On Location: Memphis starts tomorrow

From On Location: Memphis international film festival:

This year's ON LOCATION: MEMPHIS international film fest promises to be one of the most talked about events in Memphis this year! From filmmakers and producers to celebrities and musicians, everyone's coming to Memphis for a great selection of film and music! More than 90 films representing 20 countries and most of all the US will be screened starting this Thursday, March 27, 7:30 pm at the Paradiso with a sneak peek at the new blues doc, DELTA RISING, filmed at Morgan Freeman's Ground Zero Blues Club in Clarksdale, MS.

If you have a Film Fest pass or purchase a membership, you can join us for the after party and get a sneak peek at Freeman's not-yet-open-to-the-public Ground Zero Blues Club Memphis! Fest passes are just $60 and are on sale NOW on-line at www.onlocationmemphis.org - after tomorrow the price goes up! So get your fest pass now! Don't wait, don't hesitate, don't stand in line! Get it now! Memberships will be available at the door on Thursday night for just $20!

www.OnLocationMemphis.org

Extras needed tonight

Attn: all actors, and agents: For everyone!

Needed: Caucasian only for tonight

If you want to be an extra tonight or have people that want to be in Soul Men, email Lisa Lax (actlink@aol.com) with your name and she will give it to the casting director and you can work tonight. Then once you've done that you call this number:

1-318-673-4567 to get all your info-call time tonight/wardrobe and parking details. Does pay
You do not leave your name on voice mail you just listen to it for your info.

Must be done quickly-pls be aware this is an all night shoot. Probably running around 5pm-5am.

Doc screening at On Location next Sunday

From the producer:

My name is Teresa Hagen, and I recently completed a documentary film, "To Touch the Soul," which follows Brazilian-born California State University, Long Beach Professor of Art Education Carlos Silveira and 27 students, among them several Cambodian Americans, who traveled to Cambodia to create art projects with children impacted by HIV/AIDS. The film is scheduled to screen on Sunday, March 30, 1:10 p.m., Malco Studio on the Square, as part of the On Location: Memphis International Film Festival.

Cambodia's HIV/AIDS rate among it's 14 million population is the highest in Southeast Asia, and the dire circumstances of the country's poor children leave them the most vulnerable to this unforgiving disease. 15,000 children are infected with HIV/AIDS or have lost their parents to the disease (77,000, a number which is expected to increase an additional 108,700 over the next five years.) But there is hope.

Our film team was privileged to follow Dr. Silveira and his students as they worked with two groups of children who are reaping the benefits of care and medicine provided by non-governmental organizations, in this case, Maryknoll Mission’s Little Sprouts and Little Folks. Seeing these children happy and joyous despite their or their parents’ HIV status was wondrous to behold, and our story became more about how these children, some abandoned by their families and all by society, taught the Americans about life, love and happiness. They became the mentors who empowered the Americans to turn outward from themselves and realize a global need for their energy, passion and new ideas.

Because of this focus, the story is told primarily through voiceover diary entries, written by the students themselves, as well as interviews and interaction with the children as Silveira and the students create art projects with them, forming an emotional bond.

You may wish to visit www.totouchthesoul.com. The film has already won seven awards including Best Documentary at the Wild Rose Independent Film Festival in Des Moines, Iowa, an Accolade Competition Best of Show award and, most recently, an Honorable Mention at the Byron Bay (Australia) Film Festival.

I will be arriving very late Friday night, the 28th, for the festival to attend the screening.

Workshops/panel discussions

ON LOCATION: MEMPHIS
FREE WORKSHOPS AND PANEL DISCUSSIONS
WITH HOLLYWOOD MOVIE INSIDERS
AFTER PARTIES OFFER MORE NETWORKING OPPORTUNITES

MEMPHIS, TN (March 17, 2008) – In conjunction with the 9th annual Memphis International Film Fest, On Location: Memphis will present a series of free workshops and panels discussions with Hollywood insiders and industry professionals. On Friday, March 28th and Saturday, March 29th , these workshops and panel discussions will take place at the French Quarter Suites Hotel located at 2144 Madison Avenue in Midtown Memphis, Tennessee. On Friday, 6 pm, join Special Effects expert Brent Heyning as he discussions the nuances and special tricks of the trade of animation and special FX. Heyning, a native Memphian and graduate of the University of Memphis, serves as the principal of Toyshoppe Productions. With nearly two decades experience in live and theatrical production design and construction, his most recent projects include DIE HARD 4, RESIDENT EVIL 3, STARSHIP TROOPERS 3, TRANSFORMERS, XMEN3, MATRIX 2&3, TEAM AMERICA: WORLD POLICE and STAR WARS 2. Brent is currently building high end effects and props for a film named G-Force while designing three major productions with the AMO Studio team.

On Saturday, March 29th , two special panel discussions will take place featuring Memphians who have made their way in Hollywood and Hollywood Professionals who have made their projects in Tennessee. Titled MAKING IT IN HOLLYWOOD (10 am) and MAKING IT IN TENNESSEE (11:30 am), these discussions will feature industry professionals such as Ren′ee O’Connor (XENA: THE WARRIOR PRINCESS), Jeff Clanagan (CEO/President, CODE BLACK ENTERTAINMENT, films include THE BOX, DIRTY LAUNDRY, WHY WE LAUGH), and James Spies (Executive Producer, NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH). These experts along with Memphis and Shelby County Film & Television Commissioner Linn Sitler; Tennessee Film, Entertainment and Music Commissioner Perry Gibson, Actor and Judge D’Army Bailey, and screenwriter Dawn Higginbotham will discuss how to make your way in Hollywood and the benefits of bringing your film project to Tennessee.
-more-
Page 2, On Location: Memphis
Later on Saturday at 2 pm, Mike McCarthy, the Godfather of Memphis underground cinema, will present MAKING IT WITH YOUR FRIENDS (AND NO MONEY) - a discussion with director McCarthy and fellow collaborators as they discuss just what it's like to work in McCarthy's 'Elvis meets Warhol' world.
Festival Passes are now on sale on-line at www.onlocationmemphis.org. Festival Passholders receive admission to all films and parties and advance seating at all screenings. Each night of the festival, parties are planned to showcase Memphis music and offer more networking opportunities.
FESTIVAL PARTIES:
Thursday, March 27 – Opening Night Party at Ground Zero Blues Club Memphis featuring the Queen of Beale Street, Ms. Ruby Wilson. Showtime, 9 pm. Tickets are $20 in advance only (free with festival pass) – call 901.626.9685 to purchase or purchase at the opening night film screening of DELTA RISING at Malco’s Paradiso, 7:30 pm.

Friday, March 28 – Rock ‘N Roll Blood Bath at Earnestine and Hazel’s. Step into the world of Mike McCarthy – a full interactive music/video show! 9 pm til ? $7 cover at the door – free with festival pass!

Saturday, March 29 – Big Bubba Bash at BRIDGES, 9 pm til Midnight featuring The Mudflap Kings. $20 at the door or free with festival pass.

Festival Passes are a great deal at $60 per person/$30 for students and on sale on-line only www.onlocationmemphis.org until midnight March 26th. After that, you can only purchase a pass at the door and the price goes up to an additional $10! Individual screenings are $8.50 each; tickets will be on sale at www.malco.com the week before the fest and at the Paradiso and Studio On The Square box offices. Approximately 100 filmmakers, directors, producers and actors are scheduled to attend this year fest which will also include a trade show featuring products and services from around the country.

On Location: Memphis is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of education, economic development, and cultural diversity through the cinema arts.

www.OnLocationMemphis.org

Two films in town

Here's an excerpt from John Beifuss' story in today's CA:

Memphians may see stars this week as dueling road movies starring Justin Timberlake, Samuel L. Jackson, Bernie Mac and Jeff Bridges roll into the Bluff City for a few days of filming.

Jackson and Mac play estranged Stax-style rhythm-and-blues veterans heading to Harlem's legendary Apollo Theater for a tribute to their late lead singer in the cantankerous buddy comedy "Soul Men," directed by Malcolm D. Lee (cousin of Spike), whose latest film, the Martin Lawrence family comedy "Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins," is now in theaters.

Bridges and Timberlake are an estranged (there's that word again) father and son making a pilgrimage to the bedside of a dying woman played by Mary Steenburgen in "The Open Road," a modestly budgeted independent production from writer-director Michael Meredith, son of football great "Dandy" Don Meredith. Kate Mara ("Brokeback Mountain") comes along for the ride as Timberlake's girlfriend.

"The Open Road" is scheduled to shoot here today and Wednesday, while "Soul Men" shoots Wednesday and Thursday and next Monday and Tuesday, after a break for the Easter weekend.

Unfortunately for the local economy and local film crew members, both movies are based primarily in Louisiana, to take advantage of that state's generous and well-publicized financial incentives for film production.

Tennessee recently enacted similar tax breaks, but film companies remain more familiar with Louisiana, which has provided a base for low-cost filmmaking for years. Said Sitler: "Now that we have our first 'poster child movie' for our incentives, 'Nothing But the Truth,' we hope to be able to capture these film companies on their next movies." (Set mostly in the Washington area, "Nothing But the Truth" was shot in Memphis last fall with Kate Beckinsale, Matt Dillon and Alan Alda.)

Open casting call for Soul Men

OPEN CASTING CALL FOR MAJOR FEATURE FILM

“Soul Men,” a feature film scheduled to shoot mid-March in Memphis, is hosting the Mid-South’s only OPEN CASTING CALL on Saturday, March 15th, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Directed by Malcolm Lee, “Soul Men” stars Bernie Mac, Samuel L. Jackson, and John Legend.

Actors and Extras interested in participating in the movie should grab their photos and come out and meet the Casting Directors!

The open call will be held at:

THE PEABODY HOTEL ---GRAND SALON “E” (Mezzanine Level; Go to Breezeway)

149 Union Avenue --- Downtown Memphis

Those unable to attend should go to: www.Myhollywoodconnect.com and sign up for a free account and to submit your photo.

For further information, contact: Casting Hot Line: (318)-673-4568

Free listiings in Film/TV directory -- deadline is Friday

OnLocation Memphis: International Film Fest

On Location: Memphis

When:
Thursday Mar 27, 2008
at 7:30 PM

Where::
Paradiso and Studio on the Square
584 S. Mendenhall; 2105 Court Avenue
Memphis, TN 38104
United States
View Map

International Film Festival MARCH 27-30

RSVP not required

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ON LOCATION: MEMPHIS - international film fest - March 27-30, 2008

Opening Night Film Screening - 7:30 p.m. at Malco’s Paradiso

Thursday Night After Party at Ground Zero

Friday Film Screenings at Malco’s Studio On The Square - 1 pm - 10:45 pm; Special Effects Workshop with Brent Heyning at 6 pm at French Quarter Suites

Friday Night After Party at The Blue Monkey on Madison Avenue

Saturday Film Screenings at Malco’s Studio On The Square - 10 am - 10 pm; Life and Liberty Film Series at Brooks Museum - 1:15 -6:30 pm

Saturday Workshops and Panel Discussions at French Quarter Suites: Making It In Hollywood, 10 am
Making It In Tennessee, 11:30 am, Workshop with JMM - John Michael McCarthy, 2 pm

Saturday Night Festival Party and Awards Ceremony - 9 pm til? - TBA

Sunday Film Screenings at Malco’s Studio On the Square - 1 pm - 10:30 pm; Life and Liberty Film Series at the Brooks Museum - Noon - 7:30 pm

Tickets will be on sale on the MALCO website and are currently on sale at www.onlocationmemphis.org

On Location: Memphis Intl Film Fest needs volunteers

This year's On Location: Memphis International Film Festival is going to be bigger than ever!!! With 85 films from 20 countries and 63 film makers en route to Memphis - we are going to need your help!!!

If you are interested in volunteering for the upcoming festival do not hesitate!!! The festival is March 27-30th and this year we are in 2 venues. Great films, good times, and great people make our festival a destination!

If you are interested in helping out for a few hours, or a few days, contact Shandra Blackwell, Volunteer Coordinator for the On Location: Memphis International Film Festival at shandra@shea-noel.com You may also visit www.onlocationmemphis.org for more information on screening times, volunteering, purchasing festival passes, festival parties, and OLM swag!

Deadline for volunteer registration is March 10th.

On Location: Memphis international film festival

Festival Passes are now on sale for On Location: Memphis, the 9th annual international film fest. A Festival Pass is the best way to get full advantage of all the fest has to offer. Four days of films and music, educational opportunities, interaction with industry insiders and parties! A Festival Pass offers entry to all events at one low price and offers exclusive access to meet & greet filmmaker receptions and parties, as well as all 83 films from 20 countries, 2 workshops, 2 panel discussions and after parties every night of the fest! This year the pass also includes admission to our special 2-day Civil Rights film series at the Brooks Museum of Art on Saturday, March 29 and Sunday, March 30. For those only interested in attending this special series, a Liberty & Justice pass is available for $30. A student pass is available for any student with a valid high school or college ID for $30 but does not include the parties.

Festival Passes are a great deal at $60 per person/$30 for students and on sale on-line only www.onlocationmemphis.org until midnight March 26th. After that, you can only purchase a pass at the door and the price goes up to an additional $10! Individual screenings are $8.50 each; tickets will be on sale at www.malco.com the week before the fest and at the Paradiso and Studio On The Square box offices. Approximately 100 filmmakers, directors, producers and actors are scheduled to attend this year fest which will also include a trade show featuring products and services from around the country.

SPECIAL SCREENINGS FOR SPECIAL PEOPLE!
New this year is SENIOR CITIZEN DAY, Friday, March 28 – all films from 1 pm to the 4:30 pm screenings are just $5 per session for adults 60 years of age and older. Tickets may only be purchased at the Studio On The Square Box office.
FROM THE 50 YARDLINE – a special documentary screening offered FREE for area middle school and high school students on Thursday, March 27 at 9:30 am. Reservations must be made by calling 901.626.9685 no later than March 15, 2008.