“Be real and get the deal”

Again I want to take this moment to thank of all you who take the time to read my blog and share it with those who are trying to make their way in this artistic industry of ours. It was one heck of a week and I will try to update folks on some of my adventures. I will say the garden is doing great save the fact our puppy decided to chew the garden hose in half. Today will be a day of getting the yard and garden cleaned up for Father’s day tomorrow. We are having him over and so with the exception of rain possible it should be a good day.

Last night I went to my 1st ever poetry reading. It was to see my girl read with several others in their group to honor their mentor. Mentors are very important in our business and working and getting advice from those who have lasted is so needed. I’ve talked before about some who want their 15 minutes of fame. I see social networking is full of LIKE this and LIKE that and people whose egos ride on a star meter or number of friends. None of this will be as helpful as seeking out those that have been there and done it. To get those gems of wisdom on how they got their foothold and the secrets to longevity. The power of the art will and should outshine the popularity contests at functions and now online. In casting we never look at number of friends or the often corrupt star-meters on IMDB. If you have little to no credits save glorified extra work and no reel to show do not expect to get treated like a star. Many of these massive mutual LIKE groups just come across as desperate computer hackers. Non-working actors who spend more time trying to find an easy path versus the real path of work hard to get the work. Followed by work that begets work. We use the database to show cast/crew lists to distributors but the once great database has lost so much credibility to real producers that it is kind of sad. So I say, focus on the work and the PR buzz comes second. Don’t be in the “Fake it to you make it” club as 99% of those folks will fail in their endeavors. “Be real and get the deal” that is the motto I would replace the previous with.

It was a very inviting reception in Saugatuck, MI for “7 Stones” which I’m very appreciative of. A welcome on the signs with my name was appreciated but a touch odd as I am only one of many great artists on that film. I was not blown away by the projection system but appreciative that it was donated. Also the film still needs some major audio mixing before it is sent to distributors but that is part of the learning curve for the new young company that CDI associated with. Overall I think my co-stars home town enjoyed the drama unfolding on-screen and I am proud of the product.

Early that same day the Philippine horror film “Darkest Night” played for a handful of distributors in Hollywood and more had screeners sent. We will see now where the offers come from but I think it was a success in that the interest is there. What deal is to be made is yet to be seen but I’ve heard that it gave some good exposure to some very talented Philippine actors/crew. I look forward to returning this fall for the launch of the theatrical run and in the Spring to shoot “The Beast”.

One of the best Bday gifts might be the funding of a film slate where I sit as a Production head with CDI there to help execute production. They chose a handful of properties to put on their slate and the first SOUL EATER could get full green light at month’s end. That would see MASON from “The 8th Plague” back in action in a prequel.

Dean Teaster’s next feature “Long Road Home” is also close to launching after a deal was put on the table for distribution. This Faith Drama will be a good next feature for Dean Teaster and I fully expect that to shoot late Summer/Early Fall if schedules allow.

A TV Division has been developing and we will soon be announcing some updates here. A couple of projects are in development and one series has Jeff Kennedy’s name all over it. He and I need to sit down and discuss so until I do I cannot put too much out there. All I can say it that it will be way cool and the path to production is clear.

I’m told we are closer to a start with the “Henry Ford” project as they attach the director. I would say that this directors is relatively well-known and worth the wait:) CDI is handling all the behind the scenes materials and so it will be a good project for me on both sides of the camera. I’m slated to play a major supporting character opposite an A-List talent that many will know. I’m looking forward to throwing down in this powerful drama.

I’ve got 4 directors and 1 producer call lined up for today so even while working about the Bluetooth will get some usage. My plan is to solidify these films so I can move out of the business phase and into what I feel I do best.  That is, bring the character to life! I’ve had some communications with folks this week about the SHOW vs the BIZ and how they intertwine with one another. It is a delicate balance but once you get that balance you will see more doors open.   I’m going to hop off here and get to my personal and work business. That is another balance that we all must achieve in our lives to be successful.

I want to thank Brother Max again for his sponsorship product. His hot sauces and BBQ sauces get much use and exposure at my various grill N chill meetings and personal hangs. So if you like natural ingredients in your sauces look at http://www.gourmetfoodandproducts.com/ .

Enjoy your weekend one and all!

DJ