francine locke

Family Law- Screening & Party!

2010-04-13T22:25:00.000-05:00

Family Law Join the Cast, Crew and FANs of "Family Law" for a private screening, Q&A with writer/director CJ Powers and producer/actress Francine Locke, and live concert by Vanessa E. on May 1, at 8:00pm.

To attend this special VIP party go online to order one of the following:

A $12 DVD of "Family Law" includes 1 free screening/party pass
A $12 CD of "Meant to Be" includes 1 free screening/party pass
A $20 DVD/CD Bundle of "Family Law" and "Meant to Be" includes 2 free screening/party passes.

https://www.ticketturtle.com/index.php?theatre=ppdbo

When you get to the website for purchases, you have to scroll down and find "Family Law".

Special Screening/ Cast, Crew and FAN Party

Time:8:00PM Saturday, May 1st

Location:Cutting Hall 150 E Wood St. Palatine, IL 60067

Family Law-ready to roll!

2010-04-07T20:12:00.000-05:00

After weeks of preparation the time has come! Family Law is ready to be launched. In just a few weeks, we will have our official release & party! On Saturday, May 1, 8pm at Cutting Hall theater in Palatine!

Family Law is a great story told in under 10 minutes, the characters are real, the story, powerful. You'll love how much is packed into every minute. When you have seen it once, you've got to go back & suddenly it becomes so much clearer. Every step of the way, writer/director CJ Powers crafted the words & emotions to draw you in & then….a twist! Emotions are raw, but sprinkled with tenderness.

This will be an evening you should not miss! A concert by VanessaE who wrote and performed an original song "Whisper" just for Family Law, an interview with CJ, and me, introductions to the cast, and naturally, the film itself! Be the first to see it on the big screen & take home your copy to share & watch again & again.

See you there!

Fast & Furious Film Festivals

2010-03-22T20:56:00.000-05:00

So much to do to stay on top of everything, who knew the "convenience" of "social networking" could take so many hours? Well, no more grousing, if you've been staying on top of me better than I have, you already know what's in the works for Family Law.

First off, with our entry and acceptance into the USA International Film Festival, we now have an IMDb Page. Bare bones basics are up, more info to follow. The nice benefit is for the folks who weren't on IMDb yet, now have a credit and can continue to build their resume.

Next, today we entered into several festivals. There's the Brantford Film Festival, a niche market, with an October 15-16 date. Then there is the Reno Film festival, with a Family Friendly division, and announcements will be 5/14 to see if we have been accepted into the competition. Judging is 6/13!

Still working on the artwork for the dvd cover & promo poster. Aiming to get it off to reproduction by the end of the week, enough of a reprieve, time to move again….wait a minute, that's why I am so late on this post, I've already run out of time for the month!

Almost forgot, the premier for Opportunity Jones was Saturday in South Bend Indiana. There was a nice turnout but unfortunately, I was not in the audience. As is wont to happen in Illinois, it snowed all day on the first day of spring! Sheesh! Global warming, yea right!

Ah well, what doesn't kill only makes you stronger! Stay strong & let's get it done!

Family Law Takes off!

2010-03-05T07:31:00.000-06:00

Family Law is off to the races! So much is happening! The Family Law facebook page is being updated and more interesting content is being added a few times a week, behind the scenes, interviews, etc. CJ Powers gives an on-camera interview and a funny story about his involvement with the project, also one with me wearing the Producers hat! And don't miss the great article Sarah Bachtold rote after interviewing my co-star Gavin Hanson.

Family Law has been submitted to the USA International Film Festival, the receipt of which entitles it to Imdb credit. More on that in the next 2 weeks. Also on it's way to the Edinburgh Intenational film Festival and the Gideon Film Festival.

Currently being worked on is the art work for the cover, dvd menu and poster AND planning a great premier party! Entertainment, film screening, maybe even a few door prizes, a fun evening for all! Checking into a location & availability in the northwest suburbs, I hope to see every one of you there!

In the meantime, we are up to 369 fans, soon to be 500! Let's go guys! Invite your friends & family! Let's get some buzz happening! See you there!

Family Law and CJ Powers

2010-02-27T01:14:00.000-06:00

The Facebook fan page for Family Law has 200 members, and new content being added every few days. Today, CJ Powers put up his take on the process of creating the story & directing the scene for the film. You can watch it either on the fan page or at CJ's Corner.

Seems there is so much to do yet. It was a great feeling to get the film in the mail, but after catching our breath now there is the advertising & publicity to deal with & researching various festivals. Who know there would be over 700? Pays to be discerning!

As to those 200 fans, I was surprised to see the distance involved, there is my friend from South Korea, another from New Zealand, but Eritrea, Pakistan, Italy & Slovakia? The world is a very small place!

As to this brief blog, short & sweet, time for sleep! If you haven't checked out the fan page, please do & leave a comment for me & CJ! Check it out!

PS I can't figure out how to get photos on this now that I have a Mac! Help

Family Law Fan Page is up!

2010-02-22T19:45:00.002-06:00

The fan page for Family Law was created today! There will be ongoing updates, photos, links to actors reels & bios, and perhaps even some contest details! Too soon right now though!

To bring everyone up to speed, the 168 Project is a faith based film competition. Entrants are given one week, 168 hours to create a short film, that means script writing, casting, filming, editing, scoring, everything! To add to the challenge, there is an overall theme, this year it is "Hearing God", what a great theme. Entrants are also assigned a bible verse that should be incorporated into their film, the actual verse does not appear in the film, but it is illustrated.

Our verse was 1Kings 19:11-12. Elijah wants to hear from God and finds that He is not in the wind, earthquake or fire, but in the gentle whisper. In Family Law , law firm partner Carol Peters fights to keep the legal sharks away from a teenage boy who wants emancipation from his oppressive home life. Cornered by the boy’s choices, and fiery temperament, Carol risks disbarment, unless she can find the deal-changing answer in a gentle whisper.

This year there were 85 entrants from around the world! Most of course are from California, but this year there are 21 US teams NOT from California, and teams from Nairobi, Great Britain, Jerusalem, even Indonesia. How incredibly exciting!

This is my first venture into a film from inception to completion via production! Starring in the film is me! Francine. The aforementioned teenage boy is played by Gavin Hanson, a very talented young actor I've had the pleasure of working with on several other occasions. Also in the film is Walt Sloan who I have been paired with many times in the past few years, most recently & continuing, the Ambassadors Series. He is always a joy to work with!

Rounding out the cast is Suzanne Doubet an incredibly talented stage actress who I met at the Gideon Film Festival last year, David Sanchez, and Dan Bredesen, in addition to a few extras to add realism. The writer, director & editor was the exceptionally talented CJ Powers. How we came to meet was an interesting story for another day. Add to the mix a group of ernest and talented young film makers and you end up with a great product.

The films are currently being prescreened, and in the next 2 weeks we will learn which ones make it to the first cut, the top 35. After that, the top 20 & the nominations and then California, here we come! I hope you will visit the fan page for Family Law often. We'll keep it interesting, you'll be the first to know the updates & updates there will be! Please support us & invite your friends too!!!

168 Film Finished!

2010-02-20T23:12:00.002-06:00

What a week it was. 2 weeks ago was a frenzied planning week, getting ready & calling in cast & crew to make the short film. Although I had registered months ago, due to countless problems that arose, it became apparent that "Francine wasn't going to be able to make her little film"…and that's when things changed. I got a different perspective on the whole project & suddenly things just seemed to happen. I went from having 2 confirmed people to work with, to a cast & crew of 22, within a week!

Although filming only lasted a day, CJ had his work cut out for him in the edit suite! Great material to work with but some real challenges too. One thing he could count on with Walt, was absolute consistency, making for easy cuts. However, scenes that had quite a bit of movement, were a different story. Add to that changing light when working against 2 walls of windows, you get the idea!

Once CJ had put together a directors cut, Jim came into the picture with the music & a song Vanessa E had written & recorded the day before. Again, the speed with which it came together was amazing. Jim had described the film to her the best he could, sight unseen. Vanessa also got the fire & after coming up with the chorus, wrote 2 verses then & there! To add to the incredible way things were fitting together, the music & film "just happened" to hit the crescendo at the exact same time! Wish I had been there to hear it, but CJ & Jim both were pretty overwhelmed with how it all fit.

Would you believe saving the film seemed to present the most stressful challenge? Instructions were a bit vague on the format (there were so many variations on the codecs) and after waiting 40 minutes to save one version, it would only play on one computer, not the other. Several trips & purchases and hours later a few versions were saved & off to the post office we went. The film was to be mailed prior to 2:00 PM local time, we got it in at 1:52…and that was after the Post office employee spent several minutes looking for a stamp that would actually show the time!

And so now we wait. The local films were turned in Friday. During the next weeks, the films will be viewed & narrowed down from 85 to 35. The next step will be a couple weeks after that when we are notified which films are "award eligible" & the nominations….& then the big night! Que sera, sera!

It's a WRAP!

2010-02-14T17:54:00.001-06:00

But now, even more work begins! We had a great day of filming yesterday, had some wonderfully humorous moments, there should be a GEAT blooper roll….sponsored/starring "yours truly!" It's funny, to have a word on the tip of your tongue, but it just doesn't come out…but something else does! makes you appreciate the good takes!

It was such a humbling experience to be surrounded by dedicated people, working together for a common goal, not for their own glory, but for the project. From novices to semi pros to pros, we all worked side by side & I think everyone learned a bit from each other. I could not have asked for a better bunch of people, folks who put their heart into what they love, film. And not just any film, but film with meaning, a message that will touch hearts, open eyes.

The day started bright, cold & early. How wonderful to have a great location for filming, lots of room to just spread out….& get lost which I did for the duration! (Where's the make up room? bathroom?) My role of producer was put on hold once everything was at the location & set up, then CJ took over. Thank heavens! Producing takes up LOTS of brain cells! Much to organize & keep straight, thankfully I had great people that took over once things were under way.

The first scene was a well orchestrated piece, several different setups to seamlessly draw the viewer in & create the opening mood & ongoing conflicts. Wonderful to see how each piece will fit together and how intricate the steps are. In addition to having the vision of how things should look overall, CJ took each actor & explained the emotional journey they were on, and how they would fit together. If one actor wasn't quite "there", he would draw out what he wanted from the other actor, all the while keeping each performance true & honest. A tremendous experience for all of us.

The opening scene was a breeze compared to the office scene as we were then battling changing light issues and much more confined quarters. However, once again, the crew simply made it happen. I know we were all tired, but all focused & I think we all agree the footage was great, now it's up to the edit! No pressure there!

I cannot say thank you enough to this great group of people, I am confident the end result will have each of them saying it was time well spent!

If it's thursday it must be Milwaukee?

2010-02-11T20:32:00.001-06:00

Well, here I sit in the hotel room, many things to do, but not getting much done. The past couple weeks have been tremendously busy, so a little reprieve is a good thing! Got here this afternoon for a fitting for a commercial tomorrow morning. won't get famous on these spots, but they are short days & it's really not too bad to have a quiet day. …except for the people in the hall who SLAM the doors, sheesh!

Things seem to be pretty much on target for Saturday's shoot, so how about some details? The project is a short film, up to 11 minutes with credits. Cameras began to roll today at 2:00, but we start Saturday at 7, and will just film one day. The film must be postmarked by Feb 18 at 2:00, & so it begins!

Our scrip was written & revised & revised & revised……byCJ Powers. Of course I cannot tell the story, but suffice it to say that it'll draw you in right from the first beat. Great characters, of course there is me, once again, not the most likable person, but I've got my good points! Then a young actor, Gavin, who I've shared the stage with several times at church & even a couple film projects.

Naturally I had to cast Walt sloan as the serious lawyer, then there is Suzanne Doubet, David Sanchez & a couple wonderful extras, and a great crew! 22 people, plus musicians, who are sharing in this project, each with a little piece of the puzzle and together we will do great things!

None of this would have happened if it had been on my own, its obvious "someone else" wants this film to happen & I'm all for letting Him work through me!

So now that I'm back online & able to keep up with the blog (terrible when you switch too many things at the same time!) I'll post add'l photos & get you back up to speed! I can't wait for Caleb to finish with the last couple episodes for the Ambassadors series, they are really good! Even though I obviously knew what was going on, I've got to say, "poor miserable Liz" brought a tear to my eye when I watched.
'nough for now, bedtime!

168, counting down!

2010-02-09T22:33:00.000-06:00

Unbelievable, all the pieces are here! From no team & no ability to commit 2 short weeks ago, to a great script, full characterizations, super location, wonderful selfless people committing to making this film. I never knew it could "just fall in" like this.

Several months ago when I self assuredly (cocky!) said "I can make a film, how hard can it be", I really had no idea. My turning point was when I realized I absolutely could NOT make a film on my own. At that point, i was able to walk away from the whole concept, it was no longer "Francine's Film." Since then & most assuredly because my attitude changed, every piece I could ask for has wonderfully fit into the puzzle.

To some this would be a frustrating process, & had I discussed the countless times it was on , then off, I would have appeared completely distracted, with no goal in sight. Because I stopped trying to push my agenda, every time one area dropped out of the equation, within days, another popped up to take it's place, me doing nothing, just knowing something would happen! Viola, it did!

In brief, the team consists of 18 people, all giving their time & talents for this project, how humbling. Sally Field will never live down her "you really like me" acceptance speech, but I understand, you never really, sincerely in your heart know if you make a difference & if others sincerely care, until you are forced to reach out….& there is a hand offered to you.

So now I begin to ramble, there are countless things to do still. There's an audition for a film tomorrow morning, in the afternoon to Milwaukee for a fitting, then the commercial shoot Friday morning, & then suddenly, it's Saturday! Call time is 7:00 AM! Yikes, time to go!

168 film competition

2010-02-08T19:02:00.000-06:00

168 Film Competition And so it begins, actually it began months ago when I entered the competition, but through a series of events, it has been on and off so many times in the past 2 months that I was dizzy just trying to have a conversation about the whole thing.

Initially lined up 2 DP's with identical equipment, sweet! Writer, director, producer (ME!) and some actors. The first hiccup came when one of the DP's dropped out when he heard we had been discussing genre & he hadn't been included. hmmmmm, well, still go ahead. Then during discussions, was determined the other DP might be away, not looking too good.

In the interim, realized we all had additional ideas of projects to shoot, maybe just take a pass, write off the entry fee & work with no time limitations. BUT what about shooting a short, short, unscripted, get it done in a day, have fun & just get 'er done! I was all for it, but didn't go over so well with the asst producer. So, then the writer, comes up with a great idea, but again some disagreement. Then the music guys are leaving for a vacation…sound guy wants to retire….the usual issues, right?

The most serious concern was when my mom had a serious health complication which put everything on hold. One week later, she is better, I'm feeling good, it's a go again! Now it's serious 'cause we are into the writing stage. Script one was fine, but not what that pesky producer wanted, script 2 was great, but then changed so it's not what the writer wants, script 3, or is it 4? is now being worked with & that's that!

During all this on & off time, each time something was taken away or there was some dissension, suddenly a door would open & I just had to walk through. That's why we are doing what we are doing! Now, is everything perfect, no, but what is in life? The thing is, this film is being done because it is just so obvious is has to be done! I'm rather nervous about the whole thing now I started the ball in motion & have to make sure it stays on track. All the pieces are steadily falling into place, definitely through outside intervention, & I'm just going along with it all!

Looking for a camera, Sandy's just came back from the shop, Sound guy? Scott said yes! Lights? Yea Joe! DP? back to 2! Actors all on board, food coming along (did lose my kitchen asst but I know another will show up!) a few extra bodies are around & I am so thankful!

And now that I have my new computer & figured out how to sign on again, I'll even get the blog back up to speed! wonderful things are happening! Stay tuned!

CNGM Awards Night

2009-12-20T07:23:00.002-06:00

Awards Night for CNGM Pictures! Until a year ago I was completely unaware that there was a small group of independent film makers, right here locally. Well last night was their first real fund raiser/screening/awards night & what a success it was! Cass Winery was there, wonderful tasty d'oeuvres and great friends I've met over the past year form various film projects, and held at Cutting Hall in Palatine.

That's Walt Sloan on the left, I played his wife in our first project together, a web based series we filmed last fall. Currently, he has been working on the Ambassadors series we've been involved in for the past 4 months, and in January, we'll again be a husband/wife team, albeit in a rather dysfunctional family. David Grelck has written & will direct "Seething Civilities", a 10 minute festival bound short. David is also a great photographer in Schaumburg, click on his link for samples of his work. If you need portrait, family, or actor/model shots, he's the one to go to! Local, talented, quick & fun to work with, you will get exactly what you need from him!

On the right, is Craig Sunderlin, I first met him when he played the lead in an independent film-"Utopia" and he too is currently filming with me in the Ambassadors series. Both these guys have done quite a bit of independent film,but unfortunately, sometimes it takes forever, if ever, for the end product to actually make it to market. These two have experience that will eventually be recognized as they continue to slug it out, doing what they love!

As to the evening, I saw many friends which is what makes any evening great. What was especially fun, was watching the trailers, & seeing all these people that I didn't know had a connection, together on screen! Imagine a movie and you know half the cast members, what fun!

A last note, everyone is using any number of different digital cameras these days, Canon, Nikon, the RED. This last photo is simply a capture from the last time we were shooting, using the Canon 7D, impressive quality, no? Thanks to Caleb for sending it to me! Until next time.....!

Ambassadors-the shoot goes on....and on!

2009-12-14T09:39:00.002-06:00

"The Ambassadors" strikes again!

No, I mean we filmed another day. So there we were at 3:00 in the afternoon, and it was discovered that sound was not being recorded! The first couple takes had been checked and were fine, visually it appeared everything was good, then all came to a crashing halt! At least it was discovered before breaking everything down and carting it all to the lower level for the next scene. And how very well rehearsed we were by then! No one had to worry about missing a line, but really listening became that much more important.

It seems like a simple thing, but ofttimes, you don't really hear the line being said before yours, you know what is supposed to be said, and you can just go on with the next line regardless. There must be recognition in your face that something was said, you have to hear it as if for the first time, each & every time, & the next time and the next time, we had a lot of those times yesterday!

Thankfully we have a great crew & work well together, because now there will be an additional day to film what was supposed to be the second scene yesterday. The only downside is going to be finding a day that everyone can fit this into their schedules with Christmas around the corner and the 168 Film Project right after that! We know it will all work out just how it's supposed to!

Anyhow, 2 new characters were introduced Maggie & Mimi, aka Roz and Joan, Liz's antagonistic friends. Luckily, in a sense, the day's shooting was messed up, this way we get to work together another day! Have to make lemonade out of lemons! Liz still has a bit of a quick temper, but is really softening & listening to George now, his words are really beginning to hit home, which concerns her girlfriends.

Later today a photo shoot at Steve Ewert Photography and then this evening another class at The Green Room. Each session has been great & a super reminder of so many things that have been forgotten or glossed over along the way. Long day but a fun one!

PS Thanks Brittany from HOSFU, now you can see I have learned how to insert a link! Woo Hoo!

The Green Room-week 2

2009-12-10T08:57:00.008-06:00

Great class at The Green Room again on Monday. More on-camera time and the chance to see the rut I've fallen into. Many years of practice to give a pleasant read, likable & professional. Well, it becomes more challenging to just be real! As Murphy said, "mess it up a bit". Now I understand why some castings call for only real people. I look real and act real, but way too polished, we'll change that soon enough!

One topic was the uselessness of asking for your framing on camera before the taping begins. Why is this useless? Because 9 out of 10 people do nothing with the information. If a semi wide shot, why not use the whole space? Don't stay rooted in one spot, take over, this is your audition! And if you are moving, it is up to the camera operator to follow you. Not to say you should be jumping all over the set, but give some indication of when & where you are going to move.

Spent some time working on one-liners, those almost throw away lines, sort of mid-stream thought. Often, you deliver them in groups of 3, giving 3 separate & different renditions of the same line. What is important is to create a distinct 3 dimensional character who is actually saying the line. This in not a stereotype of a type of person, but rather an actual person. It is not simply using a fake accent, but adopting the mannerisms that this particular person might use. And pull out 3 different ones, with a pause between.

The Pause, that is a very important aspect! Pause if powerful! It can serve as an emphasis, a time to collect your thoughts ("they" won't realize this is what you are doing). A pause will keep you in control and give your reading power, make your delivery believable, and that is after all what we are after!

What's next? Back to filming for the Ambassadors series on Sunday. That's Craig Sunderlin and me from the last shoot, he's bugging me (not in real life, but his role!), and I'm recuperating from a night out on the town. Walt Sloan is in the background with Scotty, the sound guy! The upcoming script introduces a couple new actresses, my "girlfriends" in the script, with a more comedic bent to it.

And on Monday, a print ad for Restasis! I'm a happy camper! A bit chilly (1 degree!) but happy!

Until next time! Be natural, be prepared, be real!

Walmart Shopping/ shooting...I mean filming!

2009-12-06T09:26:00.000-06:00

Church, dinner, a nap & off to Walmart to film a commercial! I remember the old days of Sears & Meijers commercials, we started after the stores closed, & had to get out before opening. With the current operating hours, it gets a bit tougher! Way back when, we would have a call time of 9 PM, tonight, it is midnight! Does that mean we will be out early? One can only hope!

Only downside, it is nonseasonal, so supposed to look like the temp is 50-60, but we were advised to bring something warmer to put on between takes....does that mean outside in the 30's? Yeesh, I remember those days too! Doing a photo shoot & the camera would freeze after several minutes of being exposed to frigid temperatures, not to worry though, the talent had warm blood to keep on going! Hah!

Behind the scene from the other day at Miller Stadium, doesn't look as cold as it was, but at least my jacket was team colors which meant I got to keep it on!

Time to get off & get on with the day!

Oh, & now we wait to hear back from Trost & HOSFU about their casting decisions for A Christmas Snow. Whatever the outcome, it will be an incredible film, a wonderful story!

Stay Tuned!

A Christmas Snow Audition

2009-12-04T12:13:00.002-06:00

My wonderful friends Maiko & Ziggy met me to tape my audition for A Christmas Snow. We filmed at the home of my co star from Monster Ballad, (I wanted Anna to audition for the role of Lucy) and Walt Sloan, one of my angels, agreed to meet us there to read with us. Unfortunately, he is not available for filming the month of Feb, so he was just so thoughtful to come out just to help us.

Anna is a great little actress & she handled her character well, she has such a nice personality, & a great spark, plus she is so smart & fun to work with!

Now for anyone who has not kept up, A Christmas Snow is being filmed in Oklahoma during the first 3 weeks of February. It is a wonderful Christmas story that will be released next Christmas. It follows Kathleen and Lucy & new friend Sam through a few days, with a journey that crosses 20 plus years, and incredible heartbreak, sorrow, joy & forgiveness. No, it is NOT a sappy Christmas story, it is beautiful, charming, imaginative, REAL & so much more.

I must admit to only having read the scenes we would be filming & I also watched Tracy's character description. I made certain choices about my portrayal, which I just felt right about ( of course I can be directed to other levels!!!) What a surprise that as I finished reading the entire script this morning, I still felt right about it. As I mentioned in my opening, each of us has been injured in our past, we all deal with those injuries in our own way. I felt for Kathleen on such a deep level. I do know exactly where she is coming from. These are personal thoughts and memories and a blog is not the appropriate venue to relive them.

TMP will be filming this, the casting has been handled for the first time by HOSFU, and online! As I mentioned to all my friends, not a crazy get everyone to vote for you scam, but a professionally done online audition. Now the waiting begins & the doubts creep, should I have redone it? Is this what they are looking for? Just have to trust, all things happen for a reason!

Stay tuned for updates, or better yet, pop on over to The Christmas Snow on Facebook, or Christian-Movie.com and see what all the excitement is about & check out the auditions online!

The Green Room

2009-11-30T23:16:00.000-06:00

Started class at The Green Room this evening, taught by Dave Murphy. What a great start to an 8 week commitment. There are 10 of us in class, a good mix of backgrounds, a few SAG, some brand new, several with theater backgrounds.

The requirement at the Green Room is that you all must start at level one, no matter your background or experience. Initially I balked at that, after all, I've been doing this for years!...but I'm very glad they have this policy. There are always things one has forgotten or simply never learned, depending on how you got into the business. Murphy put us all on tape, did a small interview which will be posted online so we can view & critique.We are a mismatched bunch, with one thing in common, the desire to act; mostly in film, some theater, and hopefully get paid for it!

Sort of a long night, left the house at 4:30, got back at 10:30, but after tonight I know it will be well worth it, we will all be at a significant advantage both in terms of ability, confidence, and creativity at auditions and running our business like a business! Chatted about every topic, and sensitive issues will remain behind closed doors, trust me when I say it was enlightening! Heck I may even post my work to get add'l input! One more brick for the foundation, great choice I made to sign up!

More on A Christmas Snow!

2009-11-28T09:00:00.000-06:00

In addition to the Casting info from yesterday, here is where you can send an email with your area of expertise if you are interested in other positions!

"Crew@trostmovingpictures.com Or. volunteer@trostmovingpictures.com. Please send resume or any past experience. If you have none, then list area of interest.
Break a leg guys! What a great opportunity!

Casting Opportunity!

2009-11-27T18:32:00.000-06:00

We're having an open on-line casting call for actors/actresses for our next feature film, "A Christmas Snow." There are 2 lead parts, 1 supporting part, and 4 day player parts for which the casting call is open.

Production Details:
Filming Location: Tulsa, OK
Prep Dates: January 28-29, 2010
Shoot Dates: February 1-20, 2010

Actor Details:
Actor Union Status: Union or Non-Union
Compensation: Paid
Rate: SAG - Modified Low Budget
Benefits/Credit: Travel, Lodging, Meals, Hard Copy of Completed Project, & IMDb Credit

Watch this video of Director - Tracy J Trost as he shares his vision for our casting call and gives you a brief overview of the process:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QzRG6STVqt4

Then Follow these simple steps to try out:

1. Read the character description and see if it's the part you want to audition for.

2. Download the script pages from our website:

http://www.AChristmasSnow.com

3. Watch the video of Director - Tracy J Trost as he shares his vision for the character and the pages you will be reading.

4. Record yourself reading for the part and upload the video using the following guidelines:

A. We need to be able to see and hear you. Take your time to make sure we can.
B. Start the video by giving us your take on the character.
C. Have someone else read the other character’s parts to you.
D. Focus on staying in character and not on the person reading to you.
E. Title the video: TMP's - A Christmas Snow, "Character Name"
F. Add your name to the description & anything else you want us to know.
G. Tag yourself in the video, so we can find you on facebook for a call back.
H. Upload the video to: facebook.com/TMPics for us and our fans to see:
Use the "Video Camera" icon under the status update box on our wall to upload
your video to: facebook.com/TMPics and remember to "Tag" yourself.
I. Email your resume and head shot to: casting@trostmovingpictures.com

Thanks and be sure to let everyone know about our casting call and check back often for important updates and more news.

Joe Jestus
Trost Moving Pictures

A Christmas Snow-Casting Call!

2009-11-27T18:25:00.002-06:00

Christmas is around the corner, and what could be a better gift than a fantastic casting opportunity? There are 2 leads, a supporting & several day players-1 woman, men & a young girl. The best part is this is a real opportunity, not one of those online auditions that you post & then get everyone you know to vote for you multiple times. A real casting, great folks, a redemptive story, it gives me chills to see this happening! Click!

http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=215058710378

Hope to see you there!

Thanksgiving day after

2009-11-27T10:35:00.001-06:00

Thanksgiving, a fantastic day of giving thanks. A wonderful day, lots of hard work, but so much to be thankful for, and now that the planning and feasting is over, there is time to be still & be thankful!

I have been blessed with a terrific, albeit somewhat dysfunctional family (who hasn't!) and even tried to tell them so last night. Talk about having a tough audience! My parents cannot handle, well actually my mom, cannot handle nice words, makes her very uncomfortable so she teases & makes faces. Sheesh! My heartfelt & little tears (sorry) and she is crossing her eyes at Clay! She would have scolded him if he had done the same as a young child....which he reminded her of!

Anyway, to my dad, thanks for making me think, figure things out. That doesn't always work out for the best, but the process is fun & challenging! Like when I dismantled every piece of my mom's crystal clock, but when I put it back together I had a couple extra pieces! Oh well! And I reminded him of the time he assumed I had gotten the car into an accident, because "someone" had taken it upon themselves to remove the 1/4 panel, pound out the ding & repaint it, I was the only one in the family that would have done that! Hah, wasn't me! Anyway, thanks Dad.

Then there is my mom, she is something, always helping, teaching me so much. She is creative, full of common sense, takes on way too much, always helping others, compassionate, caring. She was always there, every day. We (sister and I) used to wonder why she didn't do more for herself, even scolded her for that. Finally, as a single mom, I understood. She has a sense of adventure (like when we got lost in China, jumped off the boat in Yalapa to swim to shore, or found our way around Lithuanian back roads), is curious about life, yours and mine, takes an authentic interest in other people. She loves nature, all Gods' creation, animals, it's tough to love your fellow-man, but she does her best at that too.

My son Clay, grew up with no dad, I did the best I could, with mom as the other parent. He is charming, strong willed, loving, fun to be around. The best gift God could have given me. We have our differences, mostly because we are so much alike, and I am just so blessed that God chose to give him to me to raise. I cannot imagine life without him, he was my anchor, had incredible insight as a child, and gave me direction.

And my loving husband Jim. I cannot imagine where we would be without him. He is my support, my encourager. He came into our lives 7 years ago & willingly & faithfully took on the role of father, husband & supporter. I never knew a man to shoulder the burdens he has & I am so grateful for that. He has taught Clay so much, how to be a good father, warts & all (no he doesn't really have warts, just a figure of speech!), a man of integrity, a good husband & best of all, he does it all with God. We are together by God's grace & no other reason, neither of us were where we would have considered a relationship 7 years ago, but God had other plans!

And finally my sister & her family, although they were not with us last night, they are enjoying God's creation at the Grand Canyon. My sister has always been there, she is devoted to those she loves & I am lucky she has forgiven me all my dumb things over the years! I wish she could have been there with us, but I am so glad they were having a great family togetherness time instead, they so deserve it! I just missed them!

I just had to share, my family is like no other, makes me crazy sometime, but how blessed we were to be able to spend a relaxing evening together, talking, laughing & even playing pool! My dad the shark! I do believe he let me win!

A wonderful day, Thanksgiving. Let us all give thanks!

Late, but still here!

2009-11-12T23:12:00.000-06:00

Well, I've lots of interesting news, a new film studio is set to open, I've attended a couple Meet ups here in Chicago, one for film makers, the other for working actors.

First, as to the studio, it was announced 2 weeks ago that a person with 3 studios in Toronto had bought a property on the south west side of the city, the old Ryerson steel mill. He has considerable connections & experience so the news was received with great joy.....however, a week later, it was announced that the deal hadn't actually closed, the grant hadn't gone through, the buyer was merely acting as broker for a local group who was purchasing the property....questions.

I'm guessing the property was probably slated for the Olympic village that we didn't get (gee I wonder why not?), and at this point any buyer will be given some great incentives. Now I may sound a bit negative, it's just that my concern is for the way this deal seems to be coming about, Chicago style politics at work? Let's hop NOT!

Of course all Chicago will be thrilled at a film studio, said to be second in size only to Hollywood. Especially as it would seem likely that Oprah will be moving out soon & with her, many jobs will be lost, all the infrastructure she has kept busy will now be scrambling for work. She bought a home out in CA quite a while back & now seems pretty inevitable that she would go where she can continue to grow.

So, on to personal & professional things, local Meet ups! What great networking & learning experience. the Film Meet up was about incorporating sound into your project & I learned much that I didn't know....of course I really don't know too much about sound, so now at least I have a foundation to build upon.

And the other was a private Meet up for working actors. 'There were 2 guest speakers, Sharon King who used to work for Oprah ( when she had two names) and Chris Charles of Beverly Ridge Pictures. Grace was the moderator, asked all kinds of pertinent questions, all in a safe environment. What gets said there stays there! Nice! This is a really vibrant group, has been growing consistently & is pretty much bursting at the seams. How great that folks are taking it upon themselves to get us & keep us all connected.

I have my 2 demos, one for dramatic, one commercial/industrial. Can you believe the trend is to shorten them to one minute! I was so pleased with my 4 minute film demo, I had tried to create a cohesive story with my clips, now to add acouple new pieces & chop it all down to 60 seconds! Gives me something to work on!

So now it is time to do like my Little Bits, the "Frappe-Cat" is doing....how is it he makes everything seem comfortable?!?

Weekend relief in Mid Week -Stillman Style!

2009-10-30T18:08:00.001-05:00

Just returned from a lovely couple days, the first was spent with Clay in Iowa, the second in Galena with Jim! What more could I ask for?

Our first trip to visit Clay in his apartment and he has done a super job of putting it all together. He gets along with his roommate, did the decorating, has next to nothing to eat in the fridge, & is very happy. Of course I fixed the freezer situation, lots of burgers & steak now!

Had a great dinner with him, good conversation about dreams, hope & aspirations, wandered around town & then back to the Sheraton which is 1 street over from his place. Convenience was great with the Sheraton, BUT...most expensive hotel in Iowa, by far, (though only ranked as 3.5 stars), had to pay add'l to park, $10.00 to use their wireless in your room (free in the lobby ) & another $30.00 if you wanted to have a nightcap in the lounge! Sorry Sheraton, the bed may be wonderful, but the add ons are ridiculous! Never again!

Then, on to Galena, & the Stillman Inn. It's owned by a wonderful couple, Dave & Bernadine. They bought it 10 years ago, & have put all their love into it & it shows. So personable, they make you feel so welcome without being overbearing. Actually Dave does most of the "guest stuff", poor Bernadine does the clean up, but it works! They have 8 rooms, all decorated in the old style, the home was built in 1858 & added on to several times over the years.

Many rooms have both a fireplace & BIG jacuzzi tub, 4 poster beds, all have private baths, fridge, coffee, robes...just beautiful! Grab a bottle of water on your way out to the shops, an ice cream bar or chocolate chip cookie when you get back for a snack! You can walk to town, but it's so quiet! It's right across the street from General Grant's house, just think, he most likely walked those same halls at one time!

On our way home we stopped at the "Wedding Chapel" in Elizabeth, some guys were working inside so we popped in to look....How sad, it has been sold & is being turned into a restaurant! Not only the, but the new name will be "The Holy Mackeral". That stinks! I can understand, perhaps it didn't make enough money, maybe a restaurant is the way to go, but there is no respect in the name, I find it rather degrading & insulting. Of course it is only a building, but still.....

Ahhhh, well, now back to focus on work at hand, pulling together the team for the 168 Film Project. Time to get down to it! More on that later!

See you round town!

Commercial Contest-$10,000 prize-Microsoft!

2009-10-26T10:35:00.002-05:00

Microsoft is in need of talented Filmmakers, Actors & Digital Artists
Filmmakers, Actors and other creatives are wanted now for Microsoft’s Real Life Tools campaign.

Spark your creative juices by producing original videos and print ads for Microsoft. Top entries will be paid $10,000 (Contest ends November 20th, 2009).

Join the Zooppa community by clicking the link below and start building your reel for more campaigns and contests for cash prizes!
http://zooppa.com/signup

Zooppa is an active community of aspiring independent filmmakers, graphic designers & digital artists who have the opportunity to create ads for the world’s top brands.

Over $500,000 has been awarded to Zooppa members for their work.

Tieing up loose ends...

2009-10-23T13:16:00.004-05:00

Busy, busy, and suddenly a screeching halt! Well, not really a halt, but I have gone from having no breathing room to being able to do the things I have let go, and that's not such a bad thing!

Wrapped: True Tale Monsters, Opportunity Jones, The Discarded
Filming "Zero Count" tomorrow, back to work on the Ambassadors series in a couple weeks, audition today for Chicago Area Lecet, on the horizon, WNOL (When No One's Listening) filming in the Caimens, and Finding Josef, springtime in Poland.

Lucky me, my friend Craig Sunderlin was able to get a clip from a film we worked on almost 2 years ago, great to have fresh material to update the reel! Plus, scenes from The Discarded, I'll get something posted, but takes me a while! I do make a rather nasty stepmother, why do I get cast in these roles? Hmmmmm, but I like it!

Then on non-acting days, installing blinds, fixing roofs, leaking skylight, garbage disposer & door knobs. Lovely! But actually, I really enjoy doing these things so not so bad to have a "slow down" spot! I've really hit a slow down time with the blog posts, but will do my best to stay on top of things now.

Now, truth be told, I kind of got knocked up side the head when I posted my opinion on a "controversial" matter on FB! Took the wind right out of my sails! It took some time to get used to the idea of posting my thoughts, opinions, goings on etc, and to get such a negative response stunk! But hey, toughen up, right? If this is the way to communicate, I'll just have to deal!

So to brighten up this post, check out the Monster Ballad site: atruetaleballadofmonsters.weebly.com Lots of behind the scene photos, info about the project, fun stuff!

PS. My "friend" in the photo at the start of this blog, was just looking for some treats in my car! And was in no hurry to leave even when Jim tried to shoo him out! I don't have a problem with that, but I didn't appreciate the teeth marks in my door frame the day when the window wasn't opened wide enough for him to get in! The one is the video is just very cute!

Monster Ballad.....It's a wrap!

2009-10-14T21:57:00.008-05:00

Peek a boo! This is one of the scenes from the beginning of the film & is a really nice affect. The way this whole thing has come together is just great! All personalities meshed, it was just a great experience, weather not withstanding!

So apart from some rain & really cold weather, it all came together wonderfully. The start was a bit shaky as several shots were missed (rain et all) but by day 5, back on track!

So this is not just a sweet film about a little girl & her fears, it really goes much deeper than that, as was shared by Maiko the writer/director. Chelsea (Anna) is a little girl with no self esteem but a special necklace which holds a secret. Sarah (Francine) has a troubled past but eventually finds a kindred soul in Chelsea. We all learned about opening up & the wonderful transformation that can take place when we allow it.

The next step is the clay-mation which will add such a special layer to the film. I was thoroughly enthralled by Ross Creen, in addition to playing one of my monster friends, he is playing the music, what a gifted artist!

We won't be abel to see the final project until spring when Maiko has completed it, but I am anticipating at least a short clip to put on my reel. Now let's see, do you use the one where I am ripping into Chelsea for thinking life's unfair, or Sarah's look into her own hurt past.

So this has been a great project, some very late days into nights, but one that I feel so glad to have been a part of. If more folks were making films like this one, the world would be a better place to live in!

Monster Ballad, A True Tale

2009-10-09T20:58:00.005-05:00

There is no possible way 10 days have gone since my last post! Someone must be messing with the calendar on this computer! Must be since I've posted photos & notes from Monster Ballad that I think I've been on my blog. So, here I am, somee downtime between scenes. It's 9:00 & I think we just have on scene left.....I hope!

Great setups today, the last scene was sleeping with a quick day break, but the one prior to that was done in reverse. Very cool effect, paper is falling down, but when the film is run in reverse, it appears to be flying up & looks like I am walking into the scene & sitting down, rather than getting up & walking backwards!

This group is the best, kids from Columbia and they are so professional, organized & really know what they are doing! This is a senior Thesis project so it won't be completed until spring, but hopefully I will be able to get a scene to post or at least add on to my demo.

Just got my 5 minute warning, Later!

Ambassador : Liz lies, George opens up

2009-09-28T15:33:00.017-05:00

The third day of filming for the Ambassadors series, and what tremendous growth there has been in the production. Not under such a tight time constraint (4 sessions under our belts, this will hold until mid Nov.), we get the opportunity for Guy Silagi (director) to work with us. The change is overwhelming!

Our characters are coming alive, real 3 dimensional people with defects, but willing to share. There is real humanity under Liz's thick crust (my role). Walt Sloan blew us away with his performance Sunday. You could feel his pain and wept along with him.

We start out on our way to opening day at the local ball field, Liz is pretty cocksure of herself, having done this for the prior 3 years.

Sitting out a rain delay, Liz finally begins to question George, trying to figure out what make him different. He decides to share his story, the pain of his past. Far from the picture perfect story Liz was anticipating.

Lest you think all was emotional & tearful, there were some fun spots in creating some of "ambiance" for the scene. Liz & George are waiting out a rain delay & I'm in charge of the rain department!

Opportunity Jones!

2009-09-28T14:46:00.005-05:00

So here I am on the set of Opportunity Jones, a spoof (or is it) on the end times! I play the part of an infomercial host, selling the viewer a GREAT opportunity to make some extra cash before the total destruction of the Earth! Opportunity Jones will is a short film based on the feature length Niles Mustache. It is set in the not too distant future in a small town. Business "opportunities" abound (much worse than swamp land in Florida!), and threaten the town's very existence.

My co-host is played by Ed Ernstes, the real life the channel 2 Elkhart reporter. He was impressed with my skill with the ear, I, however, was blown away with his memorization! It made for an interesting set up, and a great day of filming. Supposed to be edited by Nov & will be used to create a buzz & stimulate investors.

The film company is headed up by Paul Stearns and Steve and Joe Bencsics, who created the Wicked Lloyd Show, broadcast in South Bend in 1990. They have some pretty big names associated with Niles Mustache from the production end of things, William H. Birch, Dov Simens, and Steven Ivcich. This looks to be a great opportunity with names such as these attached to the feature.

Stay tuned!

CoeD Baby Shower

2009-09-21T21:07:00.002-05:00

Here we go, finally.... I have been rather remiss, but forgive me, things happen. How about a silent film, well, not quite silent, you can here our thoughts if you listen very carefully! This is what can be done with a $100 HD camera & an iPhone! Really!

Craig Sunderlin is my "hubby", CJ Powers the writer, director, producer, grip, gaffer, editor, sound guy....yes, we are talking a VERY small crew!

Wit back, listen & enjoy, short & sweet & it may put a smile on your face. Tell, me truthfully, haven't you & your other half had the same type of conversation????

Ciao!

First video for Ambassadors series-wrapped!

2009-09-11T08:50:00.006-05:00

What a whirlwind this has been, less than a month ago I ran across Linda Caseletto, drama director from AHEFC, now The Orchard. She had recently begun work on a project for a series of workshops that will be held at The Orchard over the coming 8 months, and suddenly there we were, meeting for the first time in 8 years! Some basic sketches have turned into a video series, complete with professional actors, director, crew, the works!

We filmed the first of 13 sketches yesterday, Guy Silagi, directing, Craig Sunderlin, Walt Sloan & myself the actors. The set up is that this is going on at a radio station. My character, Liz, has been filling in as on air host for the past year, & suddenly management decides to hire George, played by Walt Sloan, rather than promoting me to a permanent spot. Liz's producer, Paul, played by Craig Sunderlin, knows George will be a better person to fill the spot & Liz is really not happy about it. To make matters worse, both George & Paul are Christians & Liz has had her fill of all that from way back.

This series will demonstrate how one can share their faith without offending, how living your life is a better display than forcing your way on someone. Perhaps we will be able to post the episodes as they become available, but as we are not shooting in sequence it may take a while to catch up!

Shooting went really well, we shot at the church, so it was fun to see familiar faces. I met Guy many years ago at the Karitos film conference, have worked with Walt & Craig previously, and I know Linda from way back AHEFC-days. I was quite involved with the drama group, taught Kindergarten Sunday school & did a lot of growing there. Everyone was so relaxed & fun to work with, really a pleasure!

Saturday will be another audition, then the screening of Craig's film "Your 2 O'clock Appointment", and the book release party for Richard Mack. Zero Count, the short film I'll be in has been rescheduled due to an upcoming birth! Me thinks that is a pretty good reason to hold off for a few weeks!

TTYL!

Auditions, Producer meeting, Callback & more!

2009-09-09T08:44:00.001-05:00

OK, I've been bad, very bad, Eric, I've neglected to write but Lieber eine schlechte Entschuldigung als gar keine. Hah, who can translate? Now I've got you!

Enough silliness, well, maybe not, but here's a recap of the past week. Thursday, had a print booking for the ADA, went great, did a dozen shots, stopped to look at the images, client said "Great!" So what's that mean? "You're done!" Can I do something else, "Nope, you gave us just what we wanted!" Cool, that's how it should always go!

Later that day went back to Chicago for an audition for a short film Zero Count, then out to Harper to audition for Diary of Anne Frank.

I booked the role of the doctor for Zero Count, shoot next week. I also got a call back for Mrs. van Daan for Anne Frank. 82 auditionees, 15 called back. I was up against Madeline Franklin, my acting coach for the role. It was great to be called back and having only Madeline & myself up for that role was even better. I'm tall, she's short, light hair, her dark, different ages, and we had very different reads. If we would have looked similar, it would have felt somewhat uncomfortable, but this was great! I loved that I was called back with her, she is a great actress, rules on the stage! Me, I prefer film, and go out for theater to get out of my comfort zone & expand my horizons, and wonderful, she got the role! I couldn't be happier, my accomplishment was getting the callback, I will love seeing her in that role!

Another audition on Friday, very busy Labor Day weekend, I did LOTS of labor! And figuring out scheduling for this week, starting to get confusing!

Last night went to a Producers Panel Meet up, was very informative & met several interesting people. I have registered for the 168 in LA for 2010, (10 minute short film made in 168 hours) so I need to learn all I can about the production end of things. Lots to prepare for, much to learn!

Thursday we film the first Ambassadors segment for The Orchard (AHEFC,) I'll be working with Craig Sunderlin & Walt Sloan again! It's great to maintain relationships! This is a series on sharing the message of Christ, the right way & not so right way! It takes place in a radio station, I'll fill you in on the details later! Linda Caseletto, friend from way back, is tackling writing & producing, her first endeavor of this magnitude, and with a great script, we'll go far!

Coming up: Clay coming into town Friday-Sunday is his birthday, audition Saturday, Craig Sunderlin & Joe Caballero film, 2 O'clock Appointment, Richard Mack's book release, rehearsal for Zero Count....busy weekend!

Story over Stuff! CoEd Baby Shower!

2009-08-30T20:51:00.006-05:00

Click on the title for a glimpse of the short that I did with Craig Sunderlin & CJ Powers. It will be entered in the Elgin Film Festival. Even with just this quick bit, not bad for a $99.00 Camera! Should be interesting!

Naturally it will be posted in it's entirety once i get it.....

Church video update, it's a go! Woo Hoo! Plus, Walt Sloan & Craig Sunderlin have agreed to be a part of it! There will also be a few cameos by other locals, I'll let you know as we put this whole thing together.

I have gone from an "accidental" meeting with Linda to now we are going to put together the most professional video we can for an 8 month training program! And it appears all the pieces are rapidly falling into place! Yea God!

So what a great time. Clay was back for the weekend, church was great today, poor Pastor Dave asked me & Mark to come up & help with a demonstration... we helped! Super music, then Clay & I went & worked on the house, home for dinner, now he's out & I'm getting caught up.

PLUS, I have signed up to make a film for the 168 Project in California! Now I am committed! (or should be committed!)10 minute film, based on a scripture verse, made in exactly 1 week! What a way to break into film making!

At ICVM it was prayed over me that I would march boldly forward, going through every open door, & that rather than God open the doors for me to go through, He would simply close the ones I should NOT go through! Open door, here I come!

Biting off a big chunk! Watch what you ask for...

2009-08-29T08:00:00.002-05:00

How great when things just "seem to fall into place." A week ago I "happened" to run into Linda Casaletto at a doctor's appt for my mom. She was the drama director at E-Free, hadn't seen her in 6ish years. It was a great opportunity to get reacquainted, AND, turns our she was in the process of writing a script for a program the church will be hosting during the coming 9 months. I used to do a lot of drama sketches at the church & she was actually wishing I was available for this one. Bingo, we meet at the doctors office! Now how did that happen, I wonder?

We made plans to meet & get caught up, turns out they were going to need scripts & actors for the duration of the project, a long time commitment. So my thought was why not video tape the whole thing, several presentations could be done the same day & the time commitment is short term, lots of good reasons to go this route rather than live actors. Well, they have given Linda a green light, so now it's time to rock & roll!

At the onset this was just a script Linda was going to be responsible for, to now, they want the most professional product we can come up with, from a mustard seed..... Now as to my involvement, I've been wanting to do something with the talents God has given me, to make a difference with my acting, to touch someone, make them think, encourage them to think about things.....well, this is a program about how to share Christ, with your co workers, your friends. It's a teaching program. Hmmmm do you think "Someone" has listened to what I've said I want to do & now....here it is? Be careful what you ask for!

Well, now there is MUCH to do, hopefully the workers will not be few!

LIve like geese! From Walk the Talk

2009-08-27T08:26:00.003-05:00

A Lesson from ... GEESE!

If you ever happen to see (or hear about) geese heading south for the winter – flying along in “V” formation – you might consider what science has discovered about why they fly that way. As each bird flaps its wings, it creates uplift for the bird immediately following. By flying in “V” formation, the whole flock adds at least 71% greater flying range than if each bird flew by itself. Any goose that falls out of formation suddenly feels the drag and resistance of trying to go it alone and quickly gets back into position to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird in front.

When the lead goose gets tired, it rotates back in the set and another goose moves up to fly point. And the geese in the back honk to encourage those in front to keep up their speed. Finally, when a goose gets sick or is wounded and falls out of formation, two other geese fall out with that goose and follow it down to lend help and protection. They stay with the fallen teammate until it is able to fly or it dies. Only then do they launch out on their own – or with another formation – to catch back up with their group.

This was written as a leadership guide for business, but can you imagine that this behavior just accidentally happened? How incredible!

New Technology

2009-08-26T22:27:00.004-05:00

Ok, CJ has sold me on a camera. I purchased the $99.00 HD Vado that he used on the shoot last weekend. This morning it was $117 on Amazon, BUT I bought a pink one for $89.00! This way I know my son will not try to take it to college with him when he comes to visit!

I missed out on an audition opportunity as I didn't have a way to get myself on tape the other day, the person who was going to do it got an unexpected job, yea him! And although my camera does take video, it makes me sound like I have a dreadful lisp, not a good trait when filming an audition! Thus the new camcorder!

In a couple days I'll be letting you know how simple it is to operate (hopefully) & what a great thing it is! I did see some of the footage from the short with CJ & was thoroughly impressed. I also read a few reviews & comparisons & this one seemed to hit the mark. Now I could think about it forever, then I'd still be rushing around to get someone to help me out in the short term, so Hey I'm a big spender, I dropped a bundle!

Spent lots of time entering data into my new tracking program, really like it so far, little things that I'd change, but the tech help is so great that outweighs any of the downside. The scary part is seeing just how much I spend on things that generate NO income. Theater is pushed so strongly in Chicago so I take every opportunity, but what a drain on the finances! it's a negative ROI!

OK, I have been reminded that I have been on this box too long today so off to dream world with me! More tomorrow!

My Journey

2009-08-25T19:31:00.005-05:00

In the past several years, I’ve come to realize I have a talent that has merit & value, and should be used for more than to just pay the bills, and that has redirected my purpose in pursuing this career. I know what I do is a skill and it is a gift that has been given to me. I want to take that gift & use it to affect others. I’m not just talking about roles that are stereotypical “happily ever after” but real characters, with real challenges & real issues. Even the “bad” characters, if their quality is that they make someone think, is worthwhile.

One of my more negative roles was as a mother dealing with her daughter’s interracial marriage in The Bell Tolls. My character had preconceptions, viewed her daughter's future husband with stereotypical eyes, filled with prejudice, and finally realized those notions were false. Unfortunately, my character never had a chance to come full circle, but she was shown how wrong she was.

A similar role in Take This Job, a web series, came with similar prejudices. Obviously these are even in this day & age, real issues that must be dealt with & film is the perfect medium.

In The Discarded, (set photo) due out in 2010 (I hope!), I take an even deeper step into darkness. My character is the quintessential evil step-mother in a dark noir fairy tale reminiscent of Hansel & Gretel. She is pure evil, completely self absorbed & controlling but the bottom line is that the audience knows she is bad, her character is not glorified which is the case so often in film these days.

Even in Smoking Apples, the 48 Hour Film, I was once again the bad guy, but in the end, a mother's love came through, just a little bit too late.

All this goes to show that no matter the character, there can be a positive outcome, a moment of redemption or simply the audience knowledge that this persons character has a defect, is bad, wrong, evil and hopefully they will not sympathize with the negative, but instead look to a higher redemptive solution.

That is my desire, to put forth a performance that will cause one to think, to look beyond the obvious. To NOT want to be the bad guy with all the fun stuff. Not to glorify self focus, obsession, "he with the most toys wins" attitudes, but to be a catalyst for growth.

Just some thoughts, how about yours?

Short Film & Fan Page

2009-08-25T08:49:00.003-05:00

Well, as to the short film Co-ed Baby Shower, I spoke with CJ on Sunday & at that point he was pretty pleased with how it was turning out. He was able to work the ending so that Craig & I didn't have to come in for ADR, that was great, so now I'm just waiting to see how the whole thing comes out. There are so many different levels things can be great or go wrong. Script, actors, delivery, lighting, editing, sound, each one important, some can offset deficiancies in other areas, so now it is all up to CJ! His script was great, lighting, sound & location were somewhat problamatic, the acting is over, it's all in your hands, CJ! Edit away!

As to the new fan page, it seems I must now put my money where my mouth is! The numbers are slowly growing, and I hope they continue to do so. The posts become more important, who is interested in me rambling.....not even me! So out of respect, time to get on the ball! More projects, more postings, more photos! coming right up!

PS Thanks for your prayers for my mom, her leg is healing nicely although still quite painful.

Short Film Shoot-Story or Equipment

2009-08-22T08:53:00.003-05:00

So what is more important to a film, the high tech (expensive) equipment being used, or the story. Can one make a piece that will interest the audience using equipment from the lower end of the spectrum? How about a $99.00 HD Camera?

I was honored to work with Chicago actor Craig Sunderline and award-winning producer, writer & director CJ Powers, on just such a project yesterday. What adds another variable is that most of the dialogue is voice over! How do you grab & keep audience attention with what could appear to be insurmountable obstacles.... well just you wait!

It is a great story, every person will feel a connection....that is if you have some brainwave function! I jumped at the chance to work with CJ, wanted to get to know him, and then when I read the script, wow! It is so simple & it's just beautiful, the way the whole thing works, of course I don't want to give away any of the story, so you'll just have to wait & see!

We had our challenges. I offered my son's car to use as it seemed there would be more room to film the driver & passenger in a convertible, not just any convertible, but Clay's red convertible, '96 Mustang! I picked up Craig, backed into his driveway & then couldn't go forward, really! I tried everything, no good. Jim was driving Clay to college and I got them on the cell phone, problem solved.

Almost to CJ's & I asked Craig to call him to let him know we were almost there, Craig who has never spoken to CJ says "Good morning CJ, Craig here, Have you heard from Francine? She was supposed to pick me up a half hour ago....." Aiiiiii, I'm sure CJ needed that first thing in the morning!

As I said, it is a perfect script, perfect weather-overcast, & the streets had been recently repaved, nice concrete, perfect! Some discussion, rehearsal, characterazation & off we go! Did you know that concrete is really not smooth? That all sorts of lumps & bumps are built into it & every 20 ft is a manhole with another seam in the road....& most of the roads in Glen Ellyn that are not new concrete are under construction? We do, now! Add that to a car that has been modified to be low to the ground and is manual transmission, makes for interesting filming, can anyone say steady-cam? How about shock absorbers!

Luckily, CJ knows the area well and we found a couple streets that were good old asphalt, & how nice, the cloud layer starts breaking up & the dappled sunlight came streaming...no glaring into the car! We want slow thoughtful expressions, let's see the transition between thoughts, but hurry before the sun comes out, and the cement wall will be here any second and now it's the part of the road filled with patches....challenges!

Follow all that up with a great lunch, then sound recording, wonderful conversation, getting to know CJ & Craig and all in all a pretty great day! Sunday ADR & we'll see what magic CJ has done with the film......& the day wasn't over, but my time at the computer is! More later!

Starting the week out right!

2009-08-18T00:09:00.002-05:00

I started the week right, Mom did not! I started in Milwaukee, put on tape for 2 clients, Constant Contact & BonTon, then took Mom to the Dr. Didn't like what we heard, have to go to a surgeon tomorrow, her injury is too severe for her internist to handle-30 stitches in her lower leg, very VERY ugly & deep. Tomorrow we'll see the surgeon.

This evening went to an audition for Pride & Prejudice with GreenMan Theater Troupe, could tell the show ought to be really fun, director will be very good. Lots of young girl parts, a few men & 2 women, so we'll see what happens, will get a call by Friday one way or the other.

Have an audition on Sunday for the Citadel in Lake Forest & that one sounds like a great show too, Murder in Green Meadows, so who knows?

Plus, lucky me, I'll be doing a short film for CJ Powers this weekend. I'm really looking forward to it! It's really an experiment (format) , but the script is great.

As per usual, it's late, bed time & more detail later. It's so exciting seeing what my friends are doing in this crazy industry, I love being a part of it & when I get my schedule filled up I can just keep going ! Nitey nite!

Facebook Fan Page, Loads of updates!

2009-08-12T23:01:00.003-05:00

Ok, I have a fan page, it's official! Thank you David Grelck, a great photographer, creative, producer type (at Cabernet Studio in Schaumburg) He is so knowledgeable, does this stuff in minutes instead of me taking hours to figure things out. OK, so maybe I'm the only one who struggles, but there you have it, I may know what I want, I just don't know how to get there!

So now the website is also updated, all but the Demo reels, the new versions will be up tomorrow. From the website are links to the blog, Imdb, Linked In, Facebook, now how did all that happen? That would be David Grelck again!

So if anyone knows how I get from my original FB page to the fan page, let me know, I've copied the address & have to go to it that way. I think there's supposed to be a link from the home page but I can't find it!

Lost my tenant, but they left the house in very good condition. 2 months early so unless a new renter shows up I'll have to keep the security deposit. I'll be up all day cleaning tomorrow, well, since there are no auditions, at least it will keep me out of trouble!

I'll continue with my story that I started the other day in the next day, until then,

"May the road rise with you,
and the wind be at your back;
And may the good Lord hold you
in the hollow of his hand.

Sleep well!

Rondinas Rock!

2009-08-08T22:47:00.002-05:00

What cool siblings! I had the nicest evening with Anthony & Jessica, they are such great people! They are focused, love the Lord, have a great family, & spent the evening with me! Yipee! (Note: the picture is from ICVM!)

I have a tendency to blather on and on, but this was great, EVERYONE talks! Who knew Pizza & Woodfield could be so much fun? Well, take it from me, it can be! They are another great reason to go to the Gideon & ICVM, you could meet them too, & who knows, by next year there could be another member to their (film) family!

Yes, not only are they super cool & fun to hang with, they are filmmakers too! Haven't seen Jericho yet? What are you waiting for? Oh that's right, it's not out yet...SOON!;-)

Hey Wendy, way to go! & get the guest room ready! I've got an invite!

xoxo Francine

Where does time fly to?

2009-08-06T22:25:00.003-05:00

Time flies, how time flies! I think it has to do with a kid going away to college ...again!

This week has been spent on the computer so far, lots to do & it takes me FOREVER! but just imagine if I was doing it all by hand, staying in contact with so many folks, on top of what's happening in the world, etc. Of course, sometimes I think it might be better NOT being as informed as we all are! Not the best stuff out there!

So lets see, rather than think about where this week has flown to, how about a few words from our sponsor.....or maybe me instead!

Where I came from:
I have been acting and modeling for over 25 years and don’t believe in overnight success as you can see from my longevity! I started out in Chicago, but then expanded into the Toronto & Montreal markets. I had a lot of fun traveling the Midwest until settling back down in Chicago.

I wasn’t actually in “the biz” all that time; I took a break in 1998 to complete my long awaited Bachelor’s degree (in Criminal Justice) and another “sabbatical” when both SAG & AFTRA were striking in 2000 & 2001. With a mortgage & a child, a paycheck was a necessity, so I accepted full time employment as a business administrator in of all places, an office environment! All things happen for a reason, however, and it was during that time I met my husband and found the strongest supporter of my dreams & ambitions!

I’ve always enjoyed this business, it was not only my financial support, but also provided my social network. As a single parent, you don’t just go out at the drop of a hat, so to work in an environment with fun people who enjoy their jobs was an additional perk. Also, when my son was little, the inevitable unemployed days enabled me to chaperon field trips with my son’s class, or volunteer. I loved that I could make decent money for a few days work & then not worry about the mortgage. That was reason enough to be in this business.

Enough of my start, it's time for bed, to begin this all over again tomorrow! G'nite!

Argentum Special

2009-08-02T08:22:00.001-05:00

http://www.argentum.com/2004/specials.shtml

Photo Printing Discount!

2009-08-02T08:18:00.003-05:00

During the month of August, Argentum Photo Lab will offer 2 for 1 photo printing, good on everything! Order 100 headshots ($90.00), get 200. Good on ALL their photo printing! They do a GREAT job! Highly recommended! Go for it!

Itching to go...

2009-08-01T18:37:00.003-05:00

Well, last week was great, ended with a bang! Had a booking in Grand Rapids, MI. Lovely drive, whirlpool was the client. Nicest folks , very laid back studio even though there were some problems with their internet & camera. Modern tech, when it works, it's great! One simple shot, but because of the distance I was guaranteed a 1/2 day booking, nice!

Tomorrow is the 48 hour Film Screening, should be interesting! Never been in or seen so many shorts, being on the last day of screening is good as that is when the awards are handed out. Wonder about the competition...?

Next week, I feel it's time to get things happening. That's what happens when I have too much time. I try to stay busy (built the shed last week!) when not on auditions or working, but now I'm itching to get a project going! I've spent the afternoon on the computer, this thing is supposed to make life easier, but it REALLY takes up time!

I've been updating the various sites & links & staying on top of what is in the mix, it does get confusing at times, how does Britt keep it all together? Help!

I think I inadvertently offended a director/casting person last week. I asked about casting opportunities for the principle roles in an upcoming project. He replied that all roles are worthwhile, other directors would be at the audition, this is how they get to know who is prepared & professional, etc. I apologized & ate crow & explained I had had quite the week & seemed to have misplaced the audition info & would he be kind enough to refresh my memory...but I have not heard back! Now really, that would not be out of the question, I thanked him for his response & thought I phrased it well, but all's quiet......so I assume he be a bit perturbed! Ah well, can't please all the people all the time!

Sooner or later I will get around to some really interesting stuff to post.....! Guess I'm just getting my feet wet & comfortable with the whole process! Hello?!?

That's life!

2009-07-28T22:35:00.002-05:00

Aiii, the life of an actor! Last week I had no time to catch my breath, this week, pffft! Apparently someone made a mistake or changed their mind about me & Lyrica, no CB! & I was ready! Ah well, next time, cie la vie! (If I had taken french I would know how to spell that!)

Today was spent pulling weeds, tomorrow more of the same as well as building more of my shed & rebuilding the flower box that also holds up the trellis & the overhang on the patio, is that called a portico? Not sure, but it seems to be drooping so I will take advantage of the down time & work outside.

This is only quick (duh) so off to bed & up early & out to work! Sometime I wonder....

Goodnight!

48 hour film-Chicago

2009-07-27T23:11:00.006-05:00

Wow, what a fun shoot! 48 hours to write, film, edit, score, EVERYTHING, & get the film turned in by the deadline. Yea team, they did it! 45 original entrants, 30 completed on time. Our screening is Sunday at 5:30 at the Portage Theater, Milwaukee & Irving Pk Rd.

Our genre: super hero, word: apple, Name: Louise Grimes, Phrase: How much is it gonna cost? It was a long day of filming, but SO much was accomplished. Learned how to fake fight, it really looks real! But I must admit to having some bruises..... Also had to fall, that was tougher, slipped on the gravel & landed before the sheet of drywall, right on the gravel!

Costuming was fun, I was the super villain, my daughter the super hero. I play a pretty nasty character, but in the end have a change of heart, too little , too late!

So come out to the Portage on Sunday at 5:30 for the screening & to vote for your best film & actress (hint...who might that be?) At the corner of Milwaukee & Irving Pk, then stay for the after party & mingle with "the stars"

See you there, ok? PS, it's called "Smoking Apples"

Auditions & 48 hour Film

2009-07-24T17:16:00.005-05:00

What a week, just like it should be...like it used to be! I hope this is how things will continue! I auditioned for Lyrica, Harris Bank, MGM Grand, Nexis clothing, Columbia College SR. Thesis project. I was at O'Conner Casting again today & was told I will have a call back for Lyrica. Now I can prepare better, have to do the announcer VO with the medical warnings as well as the regular copy.

Last night was the agency party, I had forgotten how LOUD a club/bar/lounge could be. It has been a LONG time since I've been in a bar, thank heavens there is no smoking at least, bad enough to have to yell to be heard! Saw a couple people from way back, so that was fun, and chatted with a few folks from the agency & then took Katherine home. A very long day, I was nuts enough to drive back & forth between home & Chicago, 3 times! As it happened, first audition was at 9:00, then 3:00 & the party at 8:00 so I really didn't want to sit around Chicago all day & get exhausted by evening.

Today was fun, back to O'Connor. Mac told me about the Lyrica callback & gave such a nice description of what to do for the audition. He really just wants each of us to do our best, that's a nice feeling. Have to remember when on film that so much is just in the nuance, facial expression, conveys so much. He helps you to not over act, it isn't a sitcom!

Tomorrow is shooting for a 48 hour film. Looking forward to it, I'll find out the genre & character sometime this evening. We have an actor coming in from Madison, 2 from Indiana & me, should be fun!

I'll let you know! Have a great weekend!

Rockin' & Rollin"

2009-07-22T22:02:00.004-05:00

Hmmm yesteday's blog was entitled "Peace.." well for tomorrow it's Hustle & Bustle!
10:00 Flax Design audition-clothing line, print work,
2:00 Audition at O'connor Casting for Harris Bank,
3:00 Columbia for a Sr. Thesis film audition,
8-10:30 Grossman & Jack Agency party for their new print division!

I try to figure out how to push some of them together since it is an hour drive downtown, initially I was just due to be there at 9AM & 8PM so I would have easily gone home, now I'm not so sure! Good problems to have!

More photos of The Discarded were put on FB. Fun pictures, they tell a good story. I am anxious to see the footage edited together that we shot over the weekend. Interesting fairy tale, & I'm glad Kevin gave me footage for my reel.

Still haven't heard anything back from Monday's Lyrica audition, I would love that one! Go to LA for filming & then I could visit some friends! Well, what will be, will be! It's gonna happen, I just have to trust "Someone Else" knows when!

Ginny had her surgery to remove her other breast, last night was not a good night & lots of pain today. Please keep her in prayer for strength & healing!

Blessings,
Francine

Peace.....

2009-07-21T22:29:00.002-05:00

Well, peace I love, but now it seems eerily quiet! Audition & agency visit yesterday, worked in the shop with Jim today & came home to continue working on my shed...the only things film related (other than the piles of emails) is how sore the knot on the back of my head still is from the "cops" knee as he dragged me down the stairs! That and the stiff neck & shoulder muscles.

You know, it's fun being scary! I'm not much into Halloween, but this (The Discarded) was as good! I am (my character is!) a very evil person & it's nice to be able to put on the role, & then leave it all behind!

There are some fun photos on Facebook, but they are not mine so you will have to go to my page & then to my pictures to access them. When I get copies, I'll post them!

Tomorrow will be a good catch up day & prep day. Thursday is another audition & then later an agency party, they (Grossman & Jack) are starting a print division.

Well, off to finish my book I got from the ICVM, Like Dandelion Dust, by Karen Kingsbury. What a sweet lady! You must see the movie when it is released!

Nitey, nite!

Audition & I'm Wrapped....I think

2009-07-20T08:28:00.005-05:00

Audition for Lyrica today, at Oconnor Casting! FIrst audition through my new agent, Grossman & Jack Talent. First of many I hope! I'd love the trip to LA for filming, be able to visit new friends & be paid for it!

Plus, last night we may have finished my portion of filming for The Discarded...maybe! Arrived at 8:00 PM, started filming just before 9:00 and finished at 11:00! They were productive hours, way to go Kevin-writer/director & actor! Lots of hats to wear, no?

The Discarded is a modern-day dark fairy tale, Hansel & Gretel in nature. I am the evil step-mother "Not all step-mother's are evil you know", hah! Carol Bartlett is! "We'll just take the kids to the forest & leave them there, they'll find their way out & become stronger in the process, plus it'll teach them some respect, it'll be good for them!" Sure, it will! But what about the tree witch?

That's right, the Tree Witch has another scene to shoot. I talked to Joe, the makeup guy who did her makeup, it is awesome, so ugly & real looking! He said the makeup takes about 6 hours to apply! Glad that's not me! When I say I'm putting on my spackle, I'm only kidding!

This film is an independent project, started out as a short, but has evolved into a feature length film. Hadn't counted on this when I signed on to my role, but things happen in film that are not always predictable. Kevin & Kay will eventually finish the film & then need to get started on marketing. My role is finished & now it's time to focus on additional projects...like my Lyrica audition! Time to put my spackle on! Ciao!

Who Am I? Casting Crowns

2009-07-19T10:58:00.003-05:00

What a lovely video presentation, another perspective on who we are, & why we are!

Click on the title!!! You will be glad you did!

sleepy time?

2009-07-19T00:47:00.001-05:00

I sure would like to write all about the film shoot today, but 14 hours later, I'm not really up for it.....& I have a rally noisy keyboard, so will have to wait until everyone is awake! Kinda silly to be out this late....

G'nite!

Friday

2009-07-17T08:49:00.006-05:00

So what's the big deal about it being Friday? Just another day! But the weather, that's fantastic, but I'm working at the shop so I'll just think of how nice it will be when I'm not working, but then I can worry about NOT working! Sheesh, does it never end? Oh yea, it will, and after reading the news online, I think it may happen sooner than we think....

So I understand that on the day of MJ's funeral, when the world was obsessed with the "occasion" the pope declared the need for a one world governing body...how come that is not on the mainstream press? Does anyone see the significance of this? Am I misreading something?

Seems the adoption of the Euro was pointing to one currency, then there is one government, then one church and then???? Am I over simplifying?

OK, business at hand, Sat & Sunday I will finish (I think) filming for "The Discarded", an independent film I got involved with over a year ago. I get to play the role of a sick, evil step-mother, a la Hansel & Gretel. I am pretty much evil incarnate. The role does not bother me from a moral standpoint because she is evil, and gets her just rewards. So often the bad guy becomes a hero of sorts these days, but not her! The footage to date looks great, but there have been issues along the way that delayed it's completion, so here's hoping! If you've looked at my reel, there is scene from The Discarded, when I am telling my "hubby", "we have to do something", & believe me it's not very nice!

As an actor, one of our jobs is to create the character & history, come up with a back story so to speak. I decided why my character is like she is & then went a bit further to see how her past impacted her current actions. Someone has died in the film & I "decided" my character helped the process along. Concerned that this might not be true to the directors intent, I thought I'd better ask how the other person had died so my acting did not conflict with the message. Turns out I was right, although those words were never spoken! So, imagination, as well as the plot as laid out led me to believe what was in fact in the writer/director's mind all along! Good job!

Ok, enough for now, xray stands are calling!

Jury Duty

2009-07-14T21:41:00.002-05:00

Funny, when in University I was called up for jury duty. I went to the court and explained I was a student, and my date was during midterms so I was told I get a pass, but when I get called up next time I better show up! Ok, next time just happened to be...during finals! Now I was a criminal justice major, I actually wanted to serve on a jury! They just weren't making it very easy!

About 20 years later I get called up again, this time I am out of the country! And how about that 20 year gap? I voted, isn't that where they pull the records from? Anyway, I once again received my notice and was to call today after 4:30 to see if I was to show up tomorrow or not....well, it's a not!

At this point I am really quite disgusted with our criminal justice system, more criminals either go free or abuse the system in countless ways, so I don't mind not serving. However, isn't it unfortunate that the government is so inefficient?

OK, so how about business related things instead. I have recently joined Grossman & Jack Talent. I knew Mickey Grossman from way back, and also had a bit of contact with Linda, but as she specialized in VO, I didn't have too much to do with her. Now it's like old home week, they just started a print division and Katherine from Ford (Suzanne's, A-Plus), and Marie from Aria are heading it up! This feels good, I have a past, don't need to bend over backwards to be acknowledged and there is even a party next week so hey, hey, great timing!

Now, lucky me, I get to work another day at the shop with Jim, it's only fair after taking the week off last week to revel in the fellowship at the ICVM! This weekend, I'll be shooting the final (hopefully ) scenes for "The Discarded", a dark fairy tale, reminiscent of Hansel and Gretel, I am a not-so-nice step-mother, REALLY not so nice! But at least you know I'm not nice, you will have no sympathy for me!

"K, that's it for tonight! Sleep tight!

Better than the Art Gallery!

2009-07-13T16:52:00.002-05:00

Now I'm learning how to do this artistically!

So incredible, nothing staged, nothing planned. Taken from the bus!

After Pikes Peak

2009-07-13T16:49:00.001-05:00

Yes it was brutal at the top of Pike's Peak, 38 degrees, 30 mph wind, snow, sleet, hail. Then we drove back to the hotel & were treated to a magnificent ever changing work of art!

ICVM

2009-07-10T23:42:00.006-05:00

Wow, time to say goodbye to new friends, see you next year. The sessions were incredible, the way God was moving through the entire conference was overwhelming. Never have I been so in awe of what is happening in the film industry.

It was less than year ago that I began researching who was producing, directing, casting the good films that were coming out, those films that had a Christian perspective. 7 months ago I was invited to audition at the 168 Project in Burbank, and since then I feel I've just taken off and now I'm accelerating!

After completing Stealing Home & getting nominated best supporting actress, I went to a "faith based acting" seminar in Charlotte. Bonnie Johnson and Gary Moore told me about the Gideon Film Festival and the ICVM, and now here I am!

Gideon far surpassed all my expectations and so I was bit concerned about the ICVM. Here alone (Mom & Jim were with me in NC), Bonnie, Ted & Torrey weren't going to be here, and I was hoping for not sure what, but I didn't want to be disappointed. I wasn't!

This afternoon was the peak, after the final film, The Bill Collector, went for prayer and never have I experienced anything like this. We were in small groups, one by one individual concerns were expressed, and then the group prayed for the person. To say the hand of God was upon us would be an understatement, He was everywhere, encircling, enmeshing, loving us all. I must have lost a quart of fluid, I was offered a kleenex, but needed a towel!

I will remain enthusiastic, focused, empowered by the Holy Spirit and loving prayer. I could not have predicted nor asked for the gift I was given this afternoon, thank you my friends, thank you Lord!

International Christian Visual Media

2009-07-09T01:21:00.003-05:00

What a day! Incredible speakers, phenominal films, support, encouragement, prayer, just not much down time! When "Like Dandelion Dust" is finally released in theaters, it is a MUST see film. I will be sending out reminders, it is just so powerful. Karen Kingsbury was one of the speakers & the author of the book which is the first film made of one of her books....but not the last!

It was draining watching, but so engaging, the good & the bad were both on display in all the characters. Just gut wrenching. The casting took a year, but each actor is perfect. You hate the bad guy, cheer for the "good" guys, fall in love with the litle boy.....EVERYONE needs a kleenex at one time or another!

Tomorrow, Pikes Peak, long day & then another great film. g'nite!

Denver & ICVM

2009-07-07T23:51:00.004-05:00

Ahhh, Denver, finally. Ever have one of those days/weeks/months that things just keep coming at you? I have, but can finally breathe a big sign of relief.

This is my first ICVM conference, the first of MANY. The theme is "Refresh the Call", how appropos. We need to refresh the call to bring Christ to the forefront, of our thoughts, actions, words & intentions. To refresh our relationships with like believers. And just to be refreshed!

Time also to rekindle relationships! I got to see Eric & Brittany (HOSFU), Barb, Gary, Jessica, what a great beginning to the week! The only downside is that it's late, movie night just ended & we have a packed day tomorrow: Tim Mahoney, Dr. Tson, Scene workshop, Karen Kingsbury, Dandelion Dust, etc.

There are so many great things happening, many projects in the works. It is wonderful to see God working in so many ways and to have all these folks involved & wanting to do all they can for Him! I pray to be used, to be touched & to touch someone else. To use my gifts for Him, to walk through the doors He opens!

g'nite!

Happy 4th of July! & my work week

2009-07-04T08:38:00.006-05:00

As I sit to put a few thoughts to screen ;-) I'm thinking about last week & the fun job, but then I get jolted into remembering last week was at the shop & it was the week before I had fun! Sheesh does time fly!

Well, the week before was FUN! I had a week of shooting a video for the Arl Hts Pk District. Industrial video, walking & talking on camera, that's always fun...even outside in 95 degrees & with kids who have never been on camera, and are told "You have to have fun now!" Ahh the challenges of making things appear real!

We had to display the many facets & advantages that the AHPD offers its residents, swimming, parks, tennis, golf, sailing, woodshop (my fav!), ballroom dance, yoga, yes the AHPD has it all & I got to do it all...& got paid to do it!

It's great to be in the position to be able to do this, but it does take some skill. My mom has always, & I mean always told me to just be myself. You know, that's just what I did, I had fun being myself. When you are on camera, you have to know how to make being yourself look very natural while at the same time being aware the camera is seeing everything you are doing. That comes from years of doing something & then getting to see youself & analyzing what does and does not work. When you write something, you re-read it & can make changes. When you are on camera, many times you do not have that same opportunity to make changes. You only see things after the fact so you had better know up front what works & what doesn't! That's why this whole process takes time, and why someone with years of experience makes it all look real and natural.

So often stories are told of how someone is "discovered" & it's as if the person appears out of nowhere but is just great on camera, a "real natural". Surprise, that person has worked in front of a camera for years at becoming natural! There are the exceptions, but there is no better teacher than experience! So now I can segway into how do you get said experience....?

Church dramas, student productions, make your own film, independant film, extra work. All ways to gain experience. If you've never been on set, you work as background or an extra. Then keep your eyes and ears open! Watch everyone (but always be aware of what you are supposed to be doing), see what their jobs are, what they are looking at, how lights are tweaked, how to get the best sound, mike placement, etc.

Whew, now that I'm warmed up I could go on & on, but this is getting wordy & the day is short! It is, a bit shorter than yesterday!

To all our service men & women & their families, thank you! You give so much to all of us here in America, you set such a wonderful example to our citizens and to the world. I am so in awe of your sacrifices, thank you so much. Your lives are not your own, to you this must seem perfectly natural, & we are so blessed you live your lives for the benefit of others. Thank you for your service!

Getting Started.... Down to business

2009-06-29T23:31:00.004-05:00

Ahh, back in business! Last week was great, worked on a video all week for the Park District. Hot as could be, but still was a great time. And the sailing was fun, if only there would have been a bit more wind! Probably worked out for the best though, that way there was plenty of time to get the shot form the shore!

I quit this business for about 9 years, one union was on strike in 2000, the other was planning on 2001, so at that time I took a (sigh) "real", by real I merely mean that there was a paycheck every 2 weeks. What I thought would be a wonderful, supportive work environment was anything but! Not all the time, but much of the time. I was blessed to have met some really wonderful people, still maintain those ties & have been able to put the others behind me for the most part.

After working there for 3 years I left & worked with my new husband, Jim. It's been fun, hard, dirty work, satisfying & frustrating, but now, I get to get back to the business I have such fun at. Yipee!

I started my career as a model. Fun job, travel, some glamour, but really, more hard work than the public thinks. You always have to be prepared, can never be late, but are always late on the other end, family dinners, holidays, etc! Just when you need to be somewhere, a shoot would run over & there is no, "I have to get home for the sitter", or "my family is having a dinner". You work until the shoot is over! And no, you don't go to all sorts of parties, well, I guess some did, but when you have to get up early, dark circles under the eyes just won't do!

And talk about glamor, we would have to arrive at the studio with our hair in rollers! You knew the models by how awful they looked & how much "stuff" they were schlepping. I've always had closets full, not of fancy clothes I'd wear to look like the top of fashion, but to fit a certain persona-young mom, business casual, executive, casual, etc. And all those clothes had to be clean & wearable! My right shoulder is still a bit lower than the other from carrying heavy garment bags!

Modeling was fun, that's when i got to do quite a bit of traveling, but it is a different beast from doing commercials, which is different from industrials, which are different from film. The transition from modeling to commercials was not too difficult, but there was a stigma from being known as a "model", that was a step down from being an actress! So next time, perhaps more about that?

I hate to be so disjointed but there is so much to say (see, I'm getting the hang of it!) & really so little time right now! I'm getting ready for ICVM next week in Denver, and have to get all sorts of things prepared as well as work at the shop. So more tomorrow, or so. G'nite!

Oops, almost forgot, please go to www.Christian-Movie.com I am the featured actress for July. Brittany has done a tremendous job of putting my samples together in a cohesive order. Eric Highland is a lucky person to have found her! I can't wait to see them both at ICVM!

Back to the Blog!

2009-06-25T15:44:00.000-05:00

Well, a storm knocked out the internet for a day or so, then an errant button push (standby) on the modem kept me from having internet access!It did give me an opportunity to clean out the fridge & do laundry however & get more info to Britt for the Christian-Movie.com site. Remember to check them out & also me as I will be the July featured actress!

Not much time to post just now, running out the door but will be back this evening & get back on track. Please bear with me....whoever may be listening/reading, & I'll make it worth your while.....yeah right!

Anyway, back in a bit!

Film Contest!

2009-06-19T14:27:00.000-05:00

http://www.bet.com/OnTV/BETJShows/lensontalent/lensontalent_filmmakerschallenge

Here you go, Johnson & Johnson are the sponsors, looking for a film, no more than 20 minutes, to be aired on BET. If it is aired the filmmaker gets $500, BUT the grand prize is $100,000 to make another film! Deadline is Nov 30!

How cool would it be to have a Christian Film win?????

Get going!

It seems the link doesn't work so Google Johnson and Johnson Lens on Talent for details & entry form!

Best!

The beginning, sort of!

2009-06-19T13:19:00.000-05:00

Goodness, time flies! I've been busy compiling pictures, video, etc for Christian-Movie.com. I will be the July featured actress, so be sure to go to the site & learn more about ....me! Funny, being in front of camera is fine, great, I love it, but talking about myself? Tough!

Well, tough, I've never been one to shy away from difficult tasks...(except paper/office work!) so time to get on with it.

It's funny, I've been reinventing myself, well, no not really, just clarifying me & my objectives & what on earth I'm here for. For many years I've been here to be a mom, that was my most important task in life, still is, but I'm relying on other help now, not just me, myself and I. I guess that all has to do with this whole clarification thing.

Right now it seems I'm about to go down an introspective path, a journey of sorts, and I'm not sure this is where I want to start. This whole blog thing is new, and the reason behind it is for more than to tell the entire world (ok, my 2 followers!) who I am & how I got here. I think rather than starting at the very beginning ...Once upon a time at 4:57 on a Wednesday afternoon, a cry broke the still air... No, that is not the way to go. How about from a professional standpoint instead?

Yes, I began by saying I had to compile all sorts of photos, videos, time lines, etc. That has brought back some memories! It's hard to believe I've been acting (or modeling) for over 25 years! Wow, where has the time gone? Looking at the old commercials & industrial films, finding my old resumes, there is so much I had forgotten (now I'm sounding like my mom!). I have done many things, had lots of fun, & have a few things I'd just as soon not remember, but this is life!

Like so many actresses, I started out modeling. You'll find that out when you check out Christian-Movie.com, and see a snapshot of my journey. Which brings me right back to why I'm doing this! Eric, the face behind Christian-Movie.com! I met him and Brittany at the Gideon Film Festival in NC a month ago, as well as so many other awesome people. With his guidance I am coming to realize I have a story to tell. Yes me!

Now one of the things he said was not to make blog entries too long, so I'm about at my limit! How's that for coming full circle & not getting too much out at all? Well, this will be a fine starting point for my next entry.

Till then!

Blogging & Facebook

2009-06-17T10:15:00.000-05:00

A bit confusing, but here we are, advancing along in spite of my hesitation! I will do my best to keep this updated with various film festivals, helpful hints, words of wisdom & try to keep the rambling to a minimum!

There is so much going on that it will be difficult, but with the help of modern technology, we shall see what we shall see!

Last minute photo contest: http://www.testifymag.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=107&Itemid=93

$1500 for first prize! Deadline is June 18th, so click on the link for info and enter today!

2009-06-11T21:51:00.000-05:00

Eric Highland, HOSFU CEO, is a wonderful, energetic speaker, very knowledgeable, enthusiastic. Please check out his PowerPoint files, you will be informed, enlightened & starting to get on top of the world!

At the 2009 Gideon Media Arts Conference and Film Festival, Eric taught a two-part workshop series entitled "Networking: A Cord of Three Strands."

Below are the PowerPoint files for his workshops. Please contact us with any questions, or if you have issues with the files.

Networking: A Cord of Three Strands, Part One
Networking: A Cord of Three Strands, Part Two

2009-06-11T06:43:00.000-05:00

Short Film and Art Design Festival in Puerto Rico

Don't wait too long to get your short film entry in for the upcoming film festival in Puerto Rico, especially since there is no cost to submit a film. This year's special guest is Stephen Baldwin. Eric S. Highland, HOSFU Co-Founder and CEO, will also be on hand as a special guest.

For more information, visit this page or contact festival director Lester Rivé.

http://www.christian-movie.com/short_film_festival.html

2009-06-11T06:25:00.001-05:00

http://christian-movie.com/film_production_companies.html

Check out these companies! The link says it all!

2009-06-11T06:23:00.000-05:00

http://christian-movie.com
A great site for all things Christian film!

Film Workshop

2009-06-10T21:16:00.000-05:00

I'll post the links I run into for various workshops, opportunities, conferences, etc. Check out this workshop held by the Advent Film Group.

This will be an intense 2 days from a solid Christian group that has been blessed by God and is extremely knowledgeable about the craft of film. All aspects of bringing your film (carreer) to market! Please check out the link if you are interested.

Workshop

Source: adventfilmgroup.com
Just one of the breakout sessions:

4:30PM - 5:30PM-Planning Your Film Career - From Children, Teens, Young Adults, Adults (Step-by-step guidelines across various age groups)

Getting Started....

2009-06-09T22:15:00.000-05:00

Ok, so this is it, a Blog! My blog! Strange, who would have thought I would finally succumb to the draw, be taken in by the necessity to tell the world......what? What can I tell the world? Hmmmm, well I'm bound to come up with lots to tell, I've never had a difficulty with that! Know what's scary? Not what I may have to say, but all the things I've forgotten! As I continue to "professionalize" my marketing, I realize there is so much that has slipped between the cracks, never to be thought of again....except for this here blog o mine!

Now, lest you think I will bore you with useless rambling, I say neh, nae, neigh, ummmm, well let's just say I won't do that! This is better than mere note-taking, except that spell check does not automatically tell me I've messed up... Now I also have to be sure brain is engaged!

Ok, as this is but an opening thought, I've thought enough & now believe it is time to get my beauty sleep! What fun this is going to be, memoirs, memories, momentous moments, yes, the time has arrived!