MBF Updates plus ICFF Results
The sun is out on this 5th of May and I’m sipping some hot coffee and looking forward to reviewing the week. Let’s start outside of film. I put a first mow on the yard and did several improvements including to the new garden shed. Organization up in the office with the addition of a new shelf unit which I picked up at a sale by nuns. If you think the India market hagglers are tough try negotiating with a nun, or several of them. No. It was a fun 30 min and I left with a few neat items including two shelf units. I had my first soccer match in the new 40+ league and despite the rain had fun game. We lost when our goalkeeper broke his hand early in the game. My childhood love of Chewbacca was well known and it sadden me to hear that Peter Mayhew, the actor passed away. I had him attend a screening of a comedic fan film “Unconventional” some years ago. That was more exciting for me than meeting Will Smith or any number of celebrity encounters. RIP.
Onto the film updates. I’m getting reports that THE CHRIST SLAYER which just played the ICFF in Orlando, nominated for…
WON runner up for Best Film. I’m curious what won because it must be an awesome film. But congrats to all the nominated films and winners. I wanted to win ‘Most Inspirational’ and round out the trifecta since we won that award for FORTY NIGHTS and CHASING THE STAR. I’m happy that audiences in Orlando got to watch the film – thank you to ICFF. Now I hope that you all can find a series of nights or a marathon day to watch all three films in the trilogy.
WILD FAITH – the domestic home video run is exploding. A simple google will find various sources to stream or purchase the DVD. Amazon is now taking pre-orders
https://www.amazon.com/Wild-Faith-Shane-Hagedorn/dp/B07QZV2H2R
I know many of you have waiting to see this film. Make the effort to see this film and you won’t be disappointed.
MBF: Man’s Best Friend – This powerful film will be evaluated on Friday as a work in progress with our theatrical distributor. We’ve done a first pass on sound design and the dialog has all been balanced. VFX and color correction is underway and we are to deliver on June 30th. I think the screening is just a formality before their marketing team can dig in. The artists doesn’t want to show a work-in-progress but the business is that it will help the film. It speeds up the timelines and should allow for a stronger release. With both The Christ Slayer and Wild Faith, both films already had the domestic home video set up so the theatrical had to work around that. With MBF and upcoming LOST HEART we want to work them into the mix proper like.
Speaking of our next project LOST HEART, we are just three small steps from moving into official pre-production. Also my talks with one of our targeted co-stars went great and once we move into pre-production, we’ll secure her schedule with an offer. I’m so excited about the film and it looks like camera roll in July is becoming the real possibility. If we have a good week we could be moving officially into pre-production.
Other things of interest this week include on-going talks on representation for acting and writing with some production opportunities mixed in. I did get an offer recently on a film but thought it best to do a polite pass. You have to appreciate anyone who approaches wanting to secure your artistic talent. While the role could be another film and residual check, the role didn’t grab me. I don’t do projects unless I connect with the material and the role. I see people who accept things that maybe they should have said no too. You will be defined by what you say NO to. I do hope to work with this particular outfit just on a different project with a character I can truly get behind.
Today will be some prep for the week ahead. We are also going to prepare something Mexican (food) to celebrate the Cinco de Mayo day. I hope each and every one of you have a great day and productive week ahead.
Be good to one another.
DJ
5. Ongoing work on the WILD FAITH home video deal and beyond deal. But I’m also hearing that we got invited to play at a cool Hollywood-based film festival in the fall. More info soon.
6. MBF is officially in post-production and file organization is underway. Also discussions for a first teaser trailer. I’m going to be talking with a few people about BTS promo videos this week. First look stills – soon:)
7. I took a story concept from an old script – adding a few great elements and I’m writing a new script. Mainly changing the shooting location while tailoring some of the roles. I’m excited about this story that will likely be our fall film for CDI. Follow 
Happy Holiday and New Year 2016
It is wet and cold in Michigan as the Christmas activities come to a close. It was an enjoyable season despite the lack of a white Christmas. Right up to Christmas eve we were hard at work on “40 Nights” and now the machine has to start back up. We’re trying to deliver the film that first week in Jan. 2016. I’ve seen things I really liked about our flow and a few things that certainly need to change on the second film. “Chasing the Star” is the next film on deck. I had a wonderful Christmas despite a sinus cold that has been chasing me for a week. I think also when I let my guard down and relax some of that internalized grind manifests and well, I’m a little sick.
We had a relaxing Christmas eve and our day was nice with family. It was the first Christmas dinner with my divorced parents since that event. It has been over 15 years not sure how long exactly but it was enjoyable. I use to be more of a lone wolf – workaholic. I’ve rebuilt my home stone with my girl and the pack. We’ve got a lot of love in the household and we saw that over the last couple days. I’m a twice-over uncle thanks to my brother and wife and watching them is always fun. I guess the oldest said my name for the 1st time when I was running out to the car. She was banging on the screen door and saying my name. I look forward to when I actually do hear her say my name.
We had a nice dinner with some of my old school friends from my childhood. My one good friend is looking to RETIRE back to Michigan. I don’t see retirement in my future as I think I will need to create until the end. My mentor Rance Howard is in his 80’s and still working steadily along. That will likely be my path.
DJ Perry at waters edge while shooting “40 Nights”
As stated “40 Nights” is almost done. As always it is a great undertaking with lots of communication. One of my keys has not done a great job on communication. Usually people don’t want to communicate when they don’t have the right words to say. Usually because they are behind schedule and they don’t have a good excuse for that delay. I continue to create opportunities for new people who have the artistic skill set. The idea is to see if they can operate in the real world. Not fun fan films and such but in the real world where many artists are all working hard to follow the blue print. Well, a few more days and we will see how that all ends up. The work I’ve seen has been wonderful. We will see – a tribe needs chiefs and followers. Some people are not equipped or yet ready to be chiefs.
BTS of “40 Nights” – the camp of John the Baptist
Let’s talk about one of my challenges. Walmart is placing a big order for “40 Nights” and that is the main reason for our deadline. Walmart created some artwork they liked based upon past success of their marketing team. It shows a Jesus-like figure walking in the wilderness but does not reveal the face. They used a model/art they had which A) Is not me B) Is not our wardrobe – long short is that this will be Walmart’s exclusive cover. I had to accept business over art in this matter. Once the DVD is bought and put in a player or downloaded – we present our art, our story. I also think this will be the first of many, many movie covers over the lifetime of this project. But this one order alone will likely shoot this project into success.
The storm cometh
I’m fighting the holiday slow down to see if I can get our “Chasing the Star” up and running in time to shoot before the desert of Yuma becomes unbearable. That is the desire and goal but everything has to happen in an order. Our LLC is formed, our paperwork done and now we have to get the bank account open. No rest:)
John the Baptist and Jesus
As we prepare to enter the new 2016 year it will be many releases – DONORS, ASHES OF EDEN, BESTSELLER and 40 NIGHTS. A couple of films I acted in DIVISION 19 and DEAD QUIET might release in 2016.
I did get some writing done and I’m closing in on finishing two scripts. I’ve enjoyed my few moments with you this morning. My apology for not blogging yesterday. I had a family event and was a little under the weather. I’m going to be back on the horse trying to finish up projects and prep the new ones. I also love to look at my 2015 goals I made in Dec. 2014 and see how close I came. I do this every year and it is good to focus the energies.
My alumni school
I hope you all had a great Holiday season and I wish you a Happy New Year!
Go MSU!
DJ
The Development Storm Cometh
I love this sandstorm picture. The last few weeks I’ve been working on the follow up film in our biblical series with Lightworx Entertainment. It will be announced in some official development PR soon. The script is called “Chasing the Star” (working title).
Casting has been on-going and I have to say I’ve seen some great talent from around the world. This film is gearing up for an early 2016 shoot.
Staying on the topic of development – it’s an exciting and challenging time. I know what follows the casting, financing, scheduling and development work – PRODUCTION. (Battle Drums) I really take these opportunities serious. A successful project brings continued prosperity for all those involved. It’s a team of people making their artistic mark within set business parameters. If you don’t agree our “tribe” is not for you.
Development…
We’ve had exploratory talks (J.M.) that yielded good financial news. This week we’ve had several productive talks with certain keys on some of our upcoming projects. These films have their worldwide distribution deals in place. It’s a new experience working with the distribution studios in advance but I like it. It means no shopping required after the fact which increases production flow. With a good deal that means less financing effort and with worldwide rights pre-assigned – it means moving into development on something new sooner.
Biz Topic…
REPRESENTION-
I’ve had representation of many types from small local agents to Hollywood big 3. I’ve had managers from many different walks – all with their own ideas of how to promote. Many wanted to mold or change you – following some trend. I think most artists fight to be understood and respected in our business. RULE #1 for someone representing – that is they have to believe in what they are selling. You NEED someone who really GETS YOU. Are you a character actor? A lead? Do they understand why you say YES or NO to a gig? Many agencies are shotgunning talent aiming for anything and everything. I recall years ago when starting out, I asked Bruce Campbell at a sit down with director buddy Mike Kallio, “Any advice on finding a GOOD agent?” to which he responded “Good agent? Good luck with that one kid.” I think he meant finding a good agent was like finding Bigfoot. At another dinner I asked actress Lana Wood the same question. “I’m still looking honey” was her response. I’m saying, if you find that person who believes in you treat that like gold. How many actors would be lured by the grass being greener seduced by bigger agents or opportunities? Be loyal if it’s working. Col. Parker, Peter Grant and others played a large part in the overall success. Art and Business.
My Manager
She recently had my work put before a well known director. I was presented exactly as I should be and without any BS spin. I think in our faced-paced world just getting someone to stop long enough to see your talent is half the battle.
Other Updates
I will be working to get the release dates on “Donors,” “Bestseller” and “The Terrorist” . “Ashes of Eden” is gearing up for the 13th of October US release. I think we might have a theatrical ASHES OF EDEN re-run just before the DVD/VOD release. Stay tuned.
“I didn’t hear no bell” – Rocky
40 Nights
“40 Nights” is now undergoing dialog polishing. VFX work is underway and sound design/music on deck.
CDI Films
I’m very proud of the last three CDI associated films cast and crew. The Michigan reputation has gotten better with west coast executives but the truth is we have been seen as backwoods. Hey, I love the outdoor association to backwoods. We have our pines, birches, oaks – Michigan is full of breathtaking nature. I’m told, We’re Southern Canadians in many ways. They believe that in Canada because it helps soften the blow when the Red Wings kick on them.
Back to the backwoods and how that relates to the former incentives – let’s be truthful, our cast and crew got fed mostly scraps. There exists exceptions and if you’re an exception – GREAT! Only love. But for most – the jobs offered were much below their true skill level.
The State of the State Now
I think we’ve got great talent in Michigan. We produce good players but often bad teams. I think the competitive in-state nature doesn’t always allow the best collaborations.
– To bring this full circle
Kudos to the crews from the previous three CDI features. But if I’m going to do that I can go all the way back to CDI film one. We’ve always taken filmmaking serious. I knew what Hollywood thought of us even then. We often get labeled as inferior but I know we’re NOT inferior. But to say that isn’t the best way. To show them now that’s the way. I’m pleased by what I’ve seen in the wake of the film incentive death. Some cried and left and others are finding their grit again. As the eye of TMZ moves away from Michigan, so does the vast amount of people wishing to be celebrities versus those working to have their art revealed.
In Summary…
I’ve been filled with compliments recently by “Hollywood” insiders on not only the final product but our dependability. That is something that is such a secret to success. If you cannot keep a timely/on-budget production or post a film within a timely turn around -you’ll likely NEVER make it in a studio system where production funds are granted. They are investing into dependability that a marketing team can work with in unison.
CDI – The Brand
We’ve built a BRAND (Collective Development) that represents diversity, quality and dependability. And we’ve been able to do that because we hire people who take great pride in their work. Hire people who are truly talented, accept accountability and maintains a professional respect amongst peers. I’m just very proud because all these films are built largely upon the Michigan talent pool.
DO IT. DO IT RIGHT.
REPRESENT MICHIGAN.
WE WILL ALL WEAR THE FAME OR SHAME OF OUR UNITED ACTIONS
BE THE CHANGE YOU DESIRE
DARE TO BE FAIR
SAY NO VERSUS GO IF THE SHIP AIN’T TIGHT
ONE STATE TO RULE THEM ALL (Sounds Lord of the Rings)
A STATE OF WINNING (Okay this fun exchange just went Charlie Sheen on me – I’m out-E)
Have a great weekend everyone. HOPS are almost ripe. Maybe time for a warm up cup of coffee.
DJ
DJ Perry's Official Blog 'Clawing My Way to the Middle' 