‘Take Care of Our Global Crew’ and CDI Updates!
(Mom on her Bday with my niece)
The coffee is flowing nicely. I had to get it early again because our furry babies do not like the fireworks. Once those big booms start they will not go outside to do a final potty. And when usually they go out just before bed it results it early morning potty breaks. At least this one was only an hour before I normally rise. I want to wish my mother a happy birthday. We all went out to dinner last night and to her house after. It was fun to be with several family celebrating her day. I had coconut shrimp which was nice. I haven’t had that in quite a while. My father’s birthday is tomorrow and we are having a party for him today. My sense of days is all messed up and I’ll be happy to be back on a schedule tomorrow. But I’ll enjoy another day of family and friends before I’m back at the movie tasks. I again want to thank all our readers from around the globe. We had a lot of new readers and from new places which is always nice to see. I like something I read recently that said every 100 years we have a new batch of us humans living upon ole planet earth. They stated this is our crew, almost like your high school class just on a global level. Be good to your crew. In a 100 years a new group will be running the show. This is our time to make the best of things. As I enter my 3rd decade of storytelling I already feel this turning of the wheel. So happy birthday to my mom and dad and I even recently added a new year onto my age. But age is just a number.
(Big daddy who’s Bday is tomorrow but celebrating today!) * On Set Wild Faith
When I return to filmmaking work this week it will be back to the funding stage. I’m not as good at raising capital as I am managing a film crew. I do okay because we have a strong track record. We get things done on schedule, on budget and with good quality. We have all the films in the marketing earning and that allows us to keep moving forward. This year we’re doing two smaller endeavors as we prepare for a few larger endeavors next year. This is allowing some who normally cannot invest to invest. It is a unique thing to be part of storytelling, something that will outlast ourselves. I’ve been putting together ROM COMS MUST DIE, a funny slasher that is clever in the examination of stereotypes and the trails and tribulations of artists. The other is a Christmas sequel to our successful WILD FAITH. We have given the prior backers the first opportunity to be part of the second film, which some did. Now we’ll be opening it up to new investors. The original film has many fans in the tens of millions and so we’re going to bring them a new story with some of their favorite characters. While the sequel is smart because of the ready made audience it is not a money grab. The script and story live up to the first and will be a great second chapter in this saga. We have been doing casting on both of these and I’m happy to say having some success. CDI consists of actor/producers and so we take that part of the process very serious. With the first project we’ll be announcing the director Travis Hayward and director of photography John McGraw this week. I’ll be sitting down with them this week and we’ll be discussing schedule. We got some great news on the WILD FAITH sequel on a location and we’ll be returning to Alpena, MI in November if everything stays on course.
This leads in nice to my updates on Harsens Island Revenge. First the official trailer has released and the response has been wonderful. I’m happy to say that the sound design first pass was almost complete as of Friday. This week will be a review session with our director and more music plotting. The post process is moving along nicely due to the software improvements. That is where AI can assist in guessing where an artists is going. Now we will not ever use AI music as I believe the human touch is best here. I use to say stock footage is like a suit you take off the rack. It can fit good but seldom if ever great. An AI is just stock footage created for your footage. So again AI can increase the speed at which an artist can perform his or her task. But AI will change our industry just like the digital revolution did as we transitioned from film. Actor/Producer Shane Hagedorn has been in Alpena over the holiday exploring options for the premiere. We will access the film at the end of the month and try to rough in some dates for a premiere. VFX and color correction work is underway and even a new poster of the director’s choosing. This will be a great story added to the CDI collection. You can watch the trailer below.
Harsens Island Revenge trailer: https://youtu.be/EC8_9S58nIk?si=6kcN–qsuwEhP0QW
THE MAKING OF Harsens Island Revenge: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wvvof3U4Sss&t=21s
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA started a run on UP FAITH & FAMILY and can still be bought on DVD or streamed on many platforms. PREVIEW HERE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s03pzBaG3rs&t=30s
(Jackson Kennedy with the special edition Blu Ray)
CDI’s first feature film KNIGHT CHILLS is celebrating 25 years plus and recently released on Blu Ray. It was fun to read all the positive comments about the film on the distributors site where the special edition sold out in 6 days. You can still get the classic Blu Ray but it showed me how a cult following has truly grown. So it will be coming to streaming late this year and we’ve cut a new promo trailer. Great job by our Adam Towner! WATCH IT HERE: https://youtu.be/00bNxQ84b-I?si=ngvS1z-w2xc2SDpA With all the growing success we might see Sir. Kallio ride again one day soon!
(HD DVD coming this month!)
Knight Chills is not the only classic CDI films heading back into the market after restoration. AN ORDINARY KILLER will be heading there with a HD DVD release this month and a wide streaming release in December. That deal will sign this week! This film will be the next trailer that we likely put Adam Towner’s talents on next.
(Badass Blu Ray “IN THE WOODS”)
The IN THE WOODS, Blu Ray is now shipping so google it up and order it from your favorite online retailer!
(Giddy up to Ghost Town!)
Already back into the market is the CDI smoky mountain western GHOST TOWN or known as Dean Teaster’s Ghost Town due to it being about family history. Watch it on TUBI or various other platforms. Watch the new HD trailer by Brett Frame here: GHOST TOWN TRAILER: https://youtu.be/Z1eubAgHvOY?si=U1wjIwP6Zg5BGmle
We are still experimenting on the restoration of FROM VENUS, HEAVEN’S NEIGHBORS and FIGURE IN THE FOREST. A film look filter but on the early films soften the pixels and and when we up-rez them now it blurs them our so we need to sharpen or de-noise the films before we up-rez which is taking us a bit to get that correct. But as you can see the entire CDI catalog is being addressed. I love the job that Steve Young did making our PATCHWORK GIRL OF OZ film HD. Watch it here: https://youtu.be/qLaw6zOAsw0?si=wgtuG7svTpRPwFTz
In other development new a GOTCH film is in development spinning off from the documentary FOR THE LOVE OF CATCH which you can watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GLjMjIxZuk0
I was also so pleased to hear from fans over the long holiday who enjoyed our trilogy THE QUEST TRILOGY (Forty Nights, Chasing the Star and The Christ Slayer) and MAN’S BEST FRIEND, LOST HEART, WICKED SPRING, Best Years Gone and WILD FAITH. I truly appreciate all the fans who reached out with kind words. The films all have an ever-growing audiences and if you like one film from the CDI Tribe try some of the others. We put the same heart and soul into all our endeavors.
(Just me- 2024 headshot)
We’ve been approached about producing another feature film next year which is being evaluated. Again if you have your funding this is something we’ll consider. I look forward to reading a rough draft of the script and see where the project is at. It sounds unique from other CDI properties and I love that. I also got approached about acting in a TV pilot being filmed and I’m excited to read that. Plus add in the two CDI projects coming together for 2024 and I will be artistically fulfilled. I did see another project casting in Michigan that had a role that jumped at me. I sent off an email requesting sides and we’ll see what becomes of that. I’ve been playing around on instagram doing promo videos and like I said in a recent one IT’S NEVER EASY:) It connects back to Facebook and you can watch it here: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/mYsJiRqwwcviM6ia/
I’m going to refill the coffee cut and get a few eggs going. I might even put a mow on the yard if it has dried some. I’m looking forward to the BBQ and seeing my brother and friends this eve. Tomorrow it is back to budgeting, scheduling, casting, funding and promoting – all the fun work that goes with the business! I hope you all got a recharge with family and friends and you’re ready to get back at chasing your dreams and goals. I’m also looking forward to soccer on Thursday. I’ve been enjoying watching the matches on TV. In a few short months it will be football time! Go LIONS! Remember that every person walking the earth right now is part of our crew. look out for our crew and be kind to them all. Yes, even if they have differences of opinions. I appreciate you all!
DJ
Focus and Persistence While Working Your Personal Puzzle
Hazelnut Coffee Cheers! A happy Sunday to you all out there. It is a warm yet rainy day in the Michigan. I got the lawn mowed and to kick off May did several things in the yard. The life is springing up everywhere for Spring! Dandelions are everywhere and a powerful plant they are indeed. Don’t poison them or any of the plants unless using vinegar or something natural. Everything eats something and that food chain can be affected including beloved pets. Dandelion is a powerful plant that is edible. It has many powerful compounds in it and can be made into several things medicinal or enjoyable. Culinary herbs add taste to food but they too possess many powerful compounds and that has been my study for many years. But at 50 years old I made the choice to focus my studies even more. A good many of the first 50 years were learning to be a warrior and now I’m focusing on being a healer. I maintain my warrior practice to unify and keep mind, body and spirit in flow with one another. I’m happy to say that on the soccer grid we’ve started our season. A beautiful day whereas everyone was happy to be out doing what we love. My running was in good shape but early second half my legs felt a tad heavy. The last week days have been great as my whole body is tight. You get such a complete workout with soccer because of all the directional changes. Our goalkeeper almost broke a finger but after an X ray it was just a bad sprain. At the end of the day it is a battle with rules. I’m already excited for next Thursday to battle once again.
I also had a great dad day whereas we went out to MSU (Michigan State University) our alumni school to look at discarded items for sale. After a few estate and garage sales and lunch. I often find wardrobe and prop pieces for the movies and often discover classic movies and books at a great price. I even occasionally find our own movies out there and that always makes me smile. The balance of the week was desk work on the films. I’m finishing up a script that might get a green light on funding soon versus later. That is the real trick any filmmaker will tell you. It is about budgets and momentum. But also it is not always about just sales it is collections during a certain quarter. We want strong returns to help us fund new endeavors. I usually distribute funds every two quarters to allow it to build up slightly because it is a lot of check writing. I have new checks coming in this week and we’ll look to process those over the next couple weeks. Before these distributions I like to give update reports to our backers. Again our business is hard because there is often riskier but better places to put your money to get bigger or faster returns. But faceless stocks that rise or fall or even bottom out don’t match the beauty of a film that can bring a story to life. That story could keep something from disappearing or bring a new literary classic to life. I’ve been enjoying the reading of Sherlock Holmes myself. What an iconic character.
We’ve also been working on funding several upcoming projects. We still have a ways to go with HOT ROD LOVE which lost its place in the line last year to Harsens Island Revenge which funded itself faster. We could end up in that situation again this year pending some developments in the next few weeks. HOT ROD LOVE might turn that corner and complete funding but we have another project that could jump in front of it. We also have several projects gaining momentum to shoot next year and so we’ll see what is the fastest horses in the race. Speaking of that what an exciting Kentucky Derby yesterday!
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA – This film had a strong independent push by us on the theatrical scene. Now we’re just starting to roll into the home video. DVD and streaming is moving well and just off the DVD sales we’ve flown past our marketing costs. In the future our streaming revenue will kick in and we’ve got a good TV license ahead of us for this Summertime. The momentum from all these sales could be useful now but with so many platform and different billing cycles it all comes in at different quarters. We just had another great screening at the International Christian Film Festival in Orlando FL where the film was recognized with nominations for Best Actress Cassie Dean, Best Supporting Actor Shane Hagedorn and Best Score by Dennis Therrian. The SVP executive there said the movie played to a great buzz and was well received. This will push additional people to seek out of story. I think we’ll be creating a new version of the final film to do some theatrical event showing this forthcoming Christmas. This film is showing the potential for a long and strong run and perhaps cement itself as a classic of Christmas viewing. It is also just a Great War time drama to be enjoyed at any time of the year. If you haven’t seen it I encourage you to do so and if you have seen it – enjoy it again.
Harsens Island Revenge – The film officially was picture locked and music, dialog and sound design work has begun. We even watched some exciting first draft music for a few scenes. Some early teaser poster work is now underway and scenes for the film trailer have been pulled and just need to be edited together. This story adapted from Karl Manke‘s book of the same name is just wonderful. It has such a great message to it. Also taken from a great piece of history in our own state. I think this film will be unique as all CDI films are and should take audiences on an exciting journey. I was just so moved by all the performances and the hard work of all our artists. IF you want to see another film made by CDI, directed by Shane Hagedorn -from a Karl Manke book HOPE FROM HEAVEN watch BEST YEARS GONE here: https://youtu.be/U4lxhZ2CQkc?si=eI9uDVwgC50UVoln
Mother’s Day is approaching and we might suggest LOST HEART or The Quest Trilogy (Forty Nights, Chasing the Star and The Christ Slayer) or even THE PATCHWORK GIRL OF OZ.
Memorial Day is approaching and several of our films deal with military themes such as MAN’S BEST FRIEND, WILD FAITH, WICKED SPRING or FOR THE LOVE OF CATCH.
Soon I’m happy to announce that The Red, White and Blue Project a non-profit that raises money for veterans and their families will be raising money by offering a new HD DVD of AN ORDINARY KILLER thanks to Two Average Joes a podcast that works on true crime cases. Sales will directly benefit military family needs and bring this film back out in a remastered version for a good cause. We might also explore other ways to use the film to raise money for veteran affairs but to begin with this DVD will be something you will not want to miss.
The entire CDI Classic Collection is undergoing test remastering to try and bring you the best versions of these films. We have technology available to us now that was unheard of all those years ago. KNIGHT CHILLS was already remastered and released on Blu Ray. BUY HERE: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJ5WBSZR?ref_=cm_sw_r_mwn_dp_S8VVQGSK0SGEMD085ZGJ&language=en_US&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR1ezSQmyVp55OyHIm-Wg6SxYlI1McptQ-3jPPjefpWB5ptMEBLYVAUr-7U_aem_AQRqoW18ZuONMJ7L8KTJ9uSR1DzxalcJZaVSVso_GL2Kz1oQqBXq2Hh5BOOZXRZFfyU4frqOqQWVoYOo5SCkZf6P
We are working to cut a new trailer and some fresh poster art for a streaming release this Fall! Beware as I think I hear Sir Kallio coming! To the land of shadows I will ride…
So please have some patience as we try to figure out the best way to move these films into the HD realm. GHOST TOWN our Smoky Mountain western is also being prepped to return to the marketplace. A new trailer is cut and soon we’ll start making some announcements about this exciting story. Being that the film is returning after 15 years is creating a lot of work on my end but I keep telling myself it will be worth it in the end. I have more meetings over it this week. A new generation will enjoy this powerful story. As we prepare this new release campaign enjoy this music video from the very talent Paul Proios. WATCH HERE: https://youtu.be/ixEmKwLwg1U?si=LhV3JYMCbGioijdf
WRAP UP:
I’m rolling with the momentum and while I have things I want to happen faster I have to keep that patience state-of-mind as I flow. Often it would be easier to do nothing in certain situations but the payoff for taking action is often greater. Trying to do things that others would not or could not because of the numerous steps. I’m grateful to have a tribe of artists who are all willing to work towards the same goals. I’m going to keep working at our goals daily and because of the consistent work things get done. Every project is thousands of steps. A 5000 piece-puzzle plus that requires focus and persistence. Keep working on your own personal puzzles. Make the time to step away and breath in life and a good dose of nature. When you sit back down you just might find your focus sharper and your clarity better. Thank you all for spending a few moments with me and I hope within these words are something that will inspire or help you on your own path. Until next week. Be good to one another!
DJ
Seeking Balance Amongst the Lions, Lots of Snow and Loss of a Friend (Again)
I want to welcome our new readers from Hungary, Belgium and Finland. It is feeling like Finland here in Michigan with us getting what some call an arctic bomb. In the 70’s we called in winter but we really did get a good amount of heavy wet snow that iced up and now we’re getting frigid temps and some Lake Effect snow. That said, the Great Lakes are protecting us from the brunt of it all causing some cold air to go around us. I love living in Michigan but also realize how precious it is here and we need to protect our water. That can be said for everywhere in the world. Water, food and air supply and not sure why many folks can’t understand that. We are getting smarter with chemicals but many big companies would rather just pay fines versus proper disposal. I’m always trying to better my eating habits and I’ll keep refining that process. I drink Apple Cider vinegar every day and last year my Mexican Style Chili Beer was very popular. I saw a group that creates various ‘Fire Ciders’ which is a variety of ingredients consisting of fruit, herbs, roots and veggies in a vinegar mixture. It is meant as a preventative and to attack any oncoming sickness. So last night I put mine together and I’m looking forward to trying it in several weeks. I’ve been diving in deep on my study of herbal teas and that is fascinating to me. I’ve said it so many times on here that health is wealth and I’m feeling great in these first weeks of the new year. Detoxing the body and mind and stepping up my workout routine. I’ve been in martial arts since 7th grade and I was a gym rat for a long time even managing a health club for a couple of years. I’m not sure if I’ll start back at the gym versus my home workouts but I’m always exploring new arts. My flexibility is good which is what many people start to loose. I’m really looking forward to soccer season in the springtime. I might jump on an indoor soccer team to get my conditioning up to speed if our team assembles one.
All the above has me feeling great with even more energy. I’ve attacked my end-of-year to do’s and I’m ahead of where I was last year. I’ve got most all the business info submitted to our accounting firm on my end. My personal tax info is all assembled and I’m just awaiting docs that will come in this month to submit them. I am just thrilled at where I’m at energy and focus-wise moving into the new year. I was pretty depleted at the end of 2023. But the much needed family time of the holidays gave me the recharge I needed. The Christmas tree just went down and the boxes and wrapping paper recycled or used to start the wood stove. I’ve been having various beginning of the year meetings and I have a good plan in place. Let’s update you all on some of the develops with our projects.
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA – Now past the holiday we’re starting our mainstream PR starting with Iowa and moving to national. Our cast and key crew are now open for interviews. We’re also working to get some reviewers involved also so if you have a blog, vlog or review site please do. If you have not seen this based on true events WW2 drama please do so.
Seeking Balance-
Most of the reviews for our films have been overwhelmingly positive. But as we know that will draw out the occasional negative person who has to try and poop in the punchbowl. Twenty years ago I felt those reviews personally but now I feel for the reviewer. If I don’t like something I will limit or not comment. What did momma use to say? If you don’t have anything nice to say don’t say anything at all. I live by that. But when someone who has faced rejection sees the success they wanted, hate for that success can be born. What they don’t understand is they create that failure with their attitudes. When I see people complaining and bemoaning how everyone and everything is keeping them down they fail to self realize. Who wants to have a ‘Debbie Downer’ or a woe is me ‘Charlie Brown’ on their team? And they wonder why they didn’t get cast or asked to be part of a crew or team. People complain publicly about their inability to raise funds for a project or endeavor and that in itself is a signal to potential backers that this person is not stable. Stable can mean in many ways. Spewing your personal issues without accountability signals mental instability. Screaming financial woes can show a lack of stable self management that could result in the misuse of funds and ultimately a failed project. The opposite can happen too whereas people try to brag up their lavish lifestyles and wants investment dollars. True wealthy people do not tend to be flashy. They don’t need a Rolex to tell people they are successful. High flying lifestyles can be a prison. A level that must be met at all costs or you could lose it all. I have always kept it simple. When struggling it was out of necessity and when successful it was out of wisdom. What I drive, wear or the size of my castle doesn’t make me a better manager, creator and artist. Keeping things simple allows me the freedom to make sacrifices needed for success at times. Boasting success or lamenting failure both show instability. Balance, zen and harmony is the stability that breeds success. Social media is not many people’s friend. Quite the opposite, it harms them most of the time. Think on these words as they might help you to get where you want to go.
Harsens Island Revenge – We are in the final stretch of our edit on the upcoming film we shot in 2023. Shot in Alpena and on Harsens Island this story is set in the 1920’s and centers on bootlegging in Michigan. Our director will be back the first week of Feb and we’ll do a producer’s watch through and plan the films opening scene. We’ll also start our sit downs with our composer and sound designer Dennis Therrian. I LOVE that process and that will mean some great meetings out at the sound studio set within a pine forest. I’m meeting tomorrow to discuss the ‘behind the scenes’ and I know that theatrical poster and a first teaser trailer are also in development. I’m as excited as all of you! We also have some great things in the works with Pepsi that could effect our theatrical release in a positive way. Fingers crossed!
KNIGHT CHILLS – During these cold months if you’re part of the great circle that plays fantasy role playing games like Pathfinder, Dungeons and Dragons…I sincerely hope that you’ve been flagged to CDI’s first movie that was released late last year to Blu Ray. We’re working to get it streaming in 2024 and much more. Rumors of a sequel have been swirling for years but we are getting close. ROLL THE DICE and add this bad boy blu-ray to your collection!
DEVELOPMENT – As noted above a sequel is in the works to Knight Chills and the hope is that we’ll see that happen this year. HOT ROD LOVE is being tuned up for a 2024 filming. We brought on another backer this past week and we’ll keep pushing. PEPSI is on-board and we’ve got some great marketing ideas with them. Shane Hagedorn is slated to direct this 1970’s drag racing comedy. It promises to take us back to an earlier time. A few other features are in development with me working on a couple scripts. Additionally we’ll be looking at other CDI classics to bring back into the marketplace. I’m looking forward to new meetings over SPIRIT LAKE MASSACRE and WILD FAITH: HASTINGS. If your not amongst the tens of millions worldwide who’ve seen WILD FAITH, take a watch. We recently went over 8 million views on our distributor’s Encourage TV.
WATCH FREE WITH ADS WILD FAITH: https://youtu.be/g0LCdlq-BK0?si=zrJyM5iAQSKs5zmq
We’ve also been enjoying a surge in audiences watching our film that highlights the plight of adoption dogs and wounded veterans MAN’S BEST FRIEND just soared over 2 million views on Encourage TV.
WATCH HERE FREE WITH ADS MANS BEST FRIEND: https://youtu.be/afDYPOiL5pY?si=X2qVoXehNkdrG8vJ
I plan on touching base with a director friend Lynn Drzick working to put together one of two horror films we’ve discussed last year. He was in hopes of a Jan. funding commitment and so we’ll see where we are with that endeavor. I do know we have a new director’s cut of IN THE WOODS and we’re looking for a theatrical run followed by a Blu-Ray and streaming release. I still need to get my scan for my Alex Kerwood action figure.
WRAP UP: After 30 years the Detroit Lions are in a playoff game at Ford field and I’m so excited. I’ve said it before, I’ve had many relatives pass away waiting for a playoff game. Speaking on passing away I wanted to give a RIP tribute to a filmmaker friend. I found out that on Christmas Richard N. Bailey passed away. He was a filmmaker who was developing a project IN OUR TIME, a retelling of the Jesus story in a modern world. It was after I had done BOOK OF RUTH and as Benjamin I had received many comments on how I looked like Jesus in that film. That led me to submit to this film (I read for Judas) and they came back and wanted me to read for Jesus. The worldwide casting led me to being one of 7 possibles. And from there I won the role. I was also offered roles in two other studio films one about Madam CJ Walker and the other Henry Ford. I still have the contract faxed to my LA attorney at the time. Health issues hindered the slate of films and IN OUR TIME went into turn around aka Development Limbo. But I had already started my deep dive into the life of Jesus and noted a very important part of his life waxed over by most. That was the 40 nights Jesus spent in the wilderness. This inspired me to write about this self exploration and the temptations thrice by the Devil. Hence the movie Forty Nights came to be. While I did not play Jesus in the big studio film that would have been my largest to date it did set me on my path to THE QUEST TRILOGY. I want to thank Richard Bailey for believing in me and my thoughts are with his family who lost this man who was always such a well spoken and kind gentlemen. If you want to watch the journey of those three films you can do so on Encourage TV again FREE with Ads.
Part 1-FORTY NIGHTS: https://youtu.be/E52EV2FPT2I?si=UjNqo6VdonX7lP2O
Part 2-CHASING THE STAR: https://youtu.be/em6JOnNDC9c?si=BV-WG_aj6WkGUALi
Part 3-THE CHRIST SLAYER: https://youtu.be/Jd5z9yJ5hVw?si=8wkFOFJV_AENin72
Richard I’m sure was proud of these stories. He was a deeply religious man who always only had kind words. He was such a refreshing change from the shark pool you’ll often find. I’m gonna sign off here to go make some oatmeal and get ready to cheer the Lions on tonight. Stay warm if you’re in the cold zone and we’ll talk next week. Thank you all again for your support and stopping in to have a coffee and a read. Be good to one another!
DJ
NEW ‘CDI’ FILM UPDATES! – November 19th, 2023
This is a truly chilly Michigan morning. Thankfully I was able to get a hot pot of hazelnut coffee flowing. I want to welcome my new readers from India, Philippines, Bangladesh and Canada. I’ve been busy getting things rolling in promotion with SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA and we’re also chugging along on HARSENS ISLAND REVENGE post-production. I’ve had several meetings over the course of the week. MSU, my alumni actually won a close football game yesterday and we’ll see in the Detroit Lions can keep their momentum.
This week I kept up with the winterizing of the yard. We’re going up North on Thanksgiving so we’re having a holiday gathering at my dad’s today. We enjoyed watching the SILVER BELLS holiday tree lighting fest here in Lansing. From our house we could watch the drone show and the fireworks show put on by one of our “Harsens Island Revenge” sponsors, ACE Pyro Inc. It was a great display.
- Met with our BMG Global team on the roll out of PR leading up to the December 1st DVD and streaming release of SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA. I know Amazon Prime and Vudu are a couple of the streaming sites that will carry the film. Many more streaming platforms will be releasing it I just need to track those links down. It will make a great gift and shared watch with family. PRE-ORDER the DVD here- https://www.amazon.com/Silent-Night-Algona-Anthony-Hornus/dp/B0CL7DFYSK/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2OKCPJN0M4XQ&keywords=silent+night+in+algona&qid=1700399845&sprefix=silent+night+in+algona+%2Caps%2C94&sr=8-1
- I met this week with an old friend discussion charity work with CDI. It is something we’ll move into more of as we continue to develop and grow the company.
- I also had a meeting with Adam Towner this week over our CDI back up RAID that is being assembled. Once that is active we’ll have easier access to our footage for promotional work. One of the the things I want done is a Behind the Scenes video for Harsens Island Revenge to release in December and a CDI highlight reel to drop on Jan 1st, 2024.
- I also took a meeting over a possible CDI associated TV show. It was more consulting at this point but it could turn into something more solid leading into 2024.
- Met with our production designer GW Burns over CDI merchandise. One of the cool first run items is a collection of Christmas cards featuring locations and vehicles used in Harsens Island Revenge. You can view the cards and order from GW directly at https://www.facebook.com/GregWBurns
- I also met with our John “Tiger” Mashni, our fellow producer to prep for end of the year tax work and also film dispersement to our backers either in Dec or Jan. This also includes state filing fees and other business to-do’s.
- A beautiful thing is that BMG Global/Encourage TV has created a PLAY LIST for those wanting to watch one CDI film after another. We will be adding The Patchwork Girl from Oz to the list also. Here it is! https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2Tn2MhKrkFOCsmKZaxoZCT1R5GEOEL3E&si=KgpKfZOfJOAc91Ne
- And while a tad different, the animated CDI associated film THE PATCHWORK GIRL OF OZ is a wonderful watch for the entire family. It features many of your favorite characters. WATCH NOW! – https://youtu.be/qLaw6zOAsw0?si=ThELZd33DsDJqXJv
- Climbing in the ranks of films is CDI’s maiden voyage film KNIGHT CHILLS. It actually has a YULE time plot line which I will not give away. The film has been brought into high def and the audio has been remastered. Also many great extra features old and new. Give the gift and maybe a red rose;) BUY NOW! https://www.amazon.com/Knight-Chills-Tim-Jeffrey/dp/B0CJ5WBSZR/ref=sr_1_2?crid=BFQA5294BLA6&keywords=Knight+Chills&qid=1700401692&sprefix=knight+chills%2Caps%2C133&sr=8-2
- HERE is the final SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA home video release trailer from BMG Global – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_D35qZCUlc
WRAP UP: So as you can see from above it was a busy week. While all this is underway we’re taking a hard look at development. It is nice to just have a clear head without any character building currently happening. I do love that process. But right now after months of keeping myself more or less clean shaved, I’m enjoying the wild beard. Plus it is helping with the cold for sure. I’ve been getting after log splitting and tonight I’ll have the wood stove kicking.
The fort’s fireside provides a great place to brainstorm and to move business along. I’m looking forward to many more over the winter as we find the spark for new upcoming projects. We have several properties in development. We’ll seek to capture that momentum from our upcoming releases and exciting post production updates. Who is excited to see a Harsens Island Revenge behind the scenes video or teaser trailer? They will be coming. In the meantime you watch follow us on Facebook and watch all the great photos rolling out.
As it gets cold it is a great time to revisit your CDI favorite films like The Quest Trilogy, Lost Heart, Wild Faith…If you want to watch director Anthony Hornus’ last film before SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA releases watch MAN’S BEST FRIEND. I’m going to finish off the coffee and look at getting into some bacon and eggs. I hope you all are having a great harvest season. We are reaping the rewards of past efforts and it feels great. I want to once again thank all our backers, cast, crew and sponsors and most of all, our fans. Have a great week and we’ll chat next week. We might actually get some snow mid week so get out those warm clothes.
Coffee Cheers!
DJ
‘Happy Easter’ Updates and ‘Movie Easter Eggs’
Good – eve – morning! I have a very busy Sunday with flea-markets, family and friends and so I’m doing my update now. I love this picture above from our upcoming SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA because it shows courage in the face of uncertainty. That is the world that we’ve been living in with its challenges and the tolls it has taken. We’ve managed to stand and face these obstacles and still manage to create our stories and hope and enlightenment. To add some humor and escapism to the lives of millions. Tens of millions and when adding all of the audiences of all of them together the totals are humbling. At CDI we are committed to telling our stories highlighting the best aspects of ourselves. I’ve had fans of THE QUEST TRILOGY, MAN’S BEST FRIEND and WILD FAITH reach out over the last week. I’m reminded of what we do for people and I cannot even begin to tell you the appreciation we as artists have for those who support the arts. Our backers, our sponsors and our audiences – the STORY that needs to be told and YOU are why we take time away from our families to film. I just wanted to take this fine Easter Eve to express our appreciation.
HOT ROD LOVE is a CDI film in active development that has a few great themes woven into a great 1975 small town drag racing world. We’ve been preparing to present this project to several of our past supporters. This is coinciding with the BEST YEARS GONE kick off to the home video campaign on July 5th. We’ve been having a great time looking at different tracks around the country.
We are all seriously excited to see how the world responds to BEST YEARS GONE. The theatrical response was very strong and I was happy to see how the German actors also received the humor well. I hope it translates around the world. We’re nominated for ‘Best Comedy’ in an upcoming –
This week is going to be exciting on many fronts. COLLECTIVE DEVELOPMENT INC. expanding into music videos. We are excited to announce that the OFFICIAL VIDEO for DEEPFALLS first single “Revolution” will premiere on April 19th! 
This week will be the SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA teaser trailer post production work on color correction, music and sound design. We’ll also start some theatrical poster designs along with a special VFX featurette. The 1st cut of the movie itself is done and now director Anthony Hornus is working with our editor on the second cut of the film. From there it will be honed down to a final picture in a third cut.
BESTSELLER the dark and moody thriller from the twisted mind of Christopher Knight arrives on home video on May 31st. We’ve been dripping PR out at the films Facebook. We worked very hard making this intense film that showcases absolutely beautiful Northern Michigan.
This past week I had four different meetings over possible CDI associations. An association is where a group has their funding and not the experience. When you are entrusted with funds you need to succeed or the well will go dry. Many films never get finished and when that happens it hurts the artistic market. But I also have to look at all the variables and decide if a collaboration will be beneficial. Sometimes it’s easier to just fund it ourselves controlling those variables but we are open to discussion. I’m proud to say that I’ve secured one of the next screenwriting/producing endeavors. I’m not ready to announce it yet but I will say that I’m extremely excited by the opportunity. We have our TV series based off WILD FAITH being evaluated by a few solid companies. With two new platforms requesting WILD FAITH just this week I’m inclined to feel that this TV spin off project will soon go into production. If it is meant to happen it will!
This week will also start the delivery of the elements on FOR THE LOVE OF CATCH documentary to DeskPop Entertainment. We will be meeting this week to further discuss the premiere. We might talk festivals as some of the large ones want to host the premiere. We shall see. We entered SMOKE & MIRRORS into a few fun festivals to go enjoy the spooky season. I got my start as a monster hunter. I will have some exciting announcements on several of the CDI library titles including KNIGHT CHILLS.
I’m going to wrap this up. I’ve been enjoying soccer which has been indoor but outdoor starts next month. But the great news is my running is getting back on point. I’ve done some great clean up in the yard but still have some to go. The chickens have been kicking out the eggs. I’ve had to work with outdoor loving Luna (new doggie) who has a passion for squirrels. I’ve finally got her to stop jumping on the fence. I’m looking forward to warmer breezes so we can do more outdoor meetings. I hope you all have a wonderful day with your loved ones. I am going to recharge and tackle the week ahead with enthusiasm.
Happy Easter! Coffee Cheers!
DJ
Feb 25th – Ten Updates “Keep Climbing”
The coffee is nice and hot as the chill wind in Michigan really blows hard this morning. Last night I got to take a few hours to go down the road to the opening of an art gallery. The Meta Collective (they like the Collective title also:) -did a wonderful job showcasing the art of many of the local artists. Music, food and drink just added to the experience. After we went and got some Thai food and called it a night with X Files. We’ve been watching the entire show from season 1 onward. We’re close to watching the new shows that will feature some friends like Rance Howard. Thank you to all of you who reached out with your kind messages about Rance.
Many times I’ve written on here about my focus on the path ahead. While others prepare to celebrate our achievements I’m always seeking that next project for the tribe. One step in front of the other – the climb. Friday was a busy day to top off an already busy week. My TO DO list almost always carries over to the next week. I did knock a few things off the list yesterday and have a few more things to do today. This industry tends to be a series of planned advancement like ‘Rocky’ running up the steps. Can you go the distance?
Let’s try random 10 film updates-
- The big news that has people buzzing is our announcement of the first theatrical run at Celebration Cinema in Lansing and Grand Rapids of “WILD FAITH”
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Watch our social media for new showing sites – click belowWILD FAITH MOVIE SHOWTIMES – March 16- 22, 2018.
Celebration Cinema Lansing, MI:
https://celebrationcinema.com/film-info/lansing/wild-faith
Celebration Cinema Grand Rapids, MI:
https://celebrationcinema.com/film…/woodland-mall/wild-faith
2. We are having serious talks about the TV series in additional to final talks on our home video. The home video release is looking like fall into winter/Christmas push. It doesn’t work to talk to all of you about the TV series until you see the film. I can say our distributor LOVED the film and could see the vision for a spin off TV series. So pitches are being made and the TV series is one of my goals for this year. Production for the series would likely be 2nd half of 2019 in Michigan.
3. Just to prime you all – our past 1800’s classic WICKED SPRING * (getting a major release 18 years later is a “classic” status to me) is rolling out. This film will start appearing in March on various digital platforms and DVD. I think Christian Cinema is already playing it. Amazon and others should be available on or around the 5th of March.
https://www.christiancinema.com/digital/movie/8055
4. MBF (Man’s Best Friend) – We had a great week working development on our next film. We’re now down to talking with our final potential backers. About the cost of a good new car to go and we’re rolling into pre-production. Also our distributor is very excited about this project and will be participating early in the process with a few nice perks. I’m excited about what that means but I cannot share that information just quite yet. In the meantime I’m working hard with our team to gather the already committed funds which at times can be like wrangling cats. Meow!
5. “Forty Nights” and “Chasing the Star” are being licensed into other foreign territories. I’ll enjoy announcing these new releases as they happen. Part 3 of the trilogy “The Christ Slayer” released their theatrical poster art last week. The trailer is about to undergo color correction and the music and sound design is being polished. The feature is also in post audio and will be there for a few months. This Christmas season audiences can see this powerful final chapter in the theaters before the Easter 2019 home video release. Also congrats to our director Nathaniel Nose and his wonderful wife on the arrival of their new baby:)
6. I had a good talk with Chris Wright/Knight, the author/EP of “Bestseller” and we discussed the new marketing of this film. We also discussed future endeavors – but it’s always a joy talking with another great Michigan artist.
7. “Ashes of Eden” as noted before has been assigned to a new distribution company. The film was delivered last week and so we should have some exciting new ways to see this film in the coming months.
8. The distributor talks this week did include CDI’s production slate of the next biblical adventure trilogy. I’ve been outlining and researching as I prepare to pen the next trilogy. It seems that they are very happy with the writing and production of these past films. It’s a nice place to be with set distribution after countless months shopping films in years past.
9. Screenwriting is creating many new opportunities. I’m back on a good weekly writing schedule and enjoy seeing with my imagination. I’ve been asked about screenplay writing for hire. Make an offer and if the story connects with me and the business is right a deal could be made. I will not take on a story that doesn’t connect with me. Again that lesson of knowing when to say NO. Actually you cannot afford NOT to say no in some situations.
10. Last week I was happy to present a character reel that my amigo Shane Hagedorn edited for me from my “Forty Nights” work. You can see it on my IMDB page or my social media sites. I am looking for that next project to act in after we complete “MBF” this Spring. I do have a western in Colorado that wants me to co-star as the Sheriff. Playing an 1800’s lawman would be a first for me and they have a strong cast forming up. So again that question of acting was brought up to me. Same answer as above. I am more selective with my acting because of my time spent in producing/screenwriting – but right script, right role, right business – maybe. Make an offer and we’ll see.
A great week of business and now some down time preparing for the week ahead. It was nice to do a bit of raking and yard clean up before the rain hit. We did not have any flood water here but other places were not so lucky. Water can be a bitch so I’m sorry for all those that had to contend with water issues. If you want to see “Wild Faith” on the big screen get your tickets online. I will be there on Friday in Lansing to greet a few people at the two kick off shows. I think some of our Grand Rapids cast/crew will attend the Woodland showing on Friday. I sincerely hope that you enjoy the hard work of many Michigan artists. For all you artists not involved watch the film and see if it is a world you would like to ‘play’ in if the series moves forward. I am always open to spending 2-3 min watching a reel of talent out there. I’m watching:)
Congrats to other filmmakers in the State of Michigan showing their art. I’m so happy to see the developing industry post-incentives. “Keeping it home-grown after the carpet-baggers have flown” – Keep dreaming. Keep creating.
Have a great week ahead!
DJ
‘Chasing the Star’ Release, Behind-the-Scenes and the NEW CDI Project INFO.
A little peanut butter toast and coffee to greet me on this fine morning. Last night I got to toast my longtime friend and film associate Dean Teaster for his 60th birthday. His property was looking just amazing. You can tell he’s put some serious time into it and it’s a very zen place to chillax. The tree fort is amazing and the cleared forest around it with the strings of lights, looked magical. A classic rock band, catered BBQ and a HUGE bar fueled the gathering into the night. I released my first burning Chinese lantern (pretty cool) and also watched the BIG fight to end my night. I hope my buddy will enjoy many more trips around the sun. A great time was had by all.
This week was full of film developments on many fronts.
The Quest Trilogy –
THE CHRIST SLAYER continues to move down post production looking to release next year. Meanwhile most of the attention is currently on CHASING THE STAR. The official release date is 9/5/17 but a few retailers have released early. Here’s the first Faith and General Market sites that you can rent/buy from.
Simply Grace magazine will run a featured story on Chasing the Star in November and Television On Demand becomes available Oct. 2nd – additionally were once again invited to attend the International Christian Film Festival 2018. We’ll see if we can follow our great 2017 run we had with FORTY NIGHTS. Here are a few of the recent reviews.
https://www.facebook.com/WildFaithMovie/
MBF
So this week we’re getting our summary for our new project MBF out to our past backers. We’re also going to be approaching our many sponsors that have supported our past projects. If you’ve got an interest in learning more on investment and/or sponsorship for your product or service, reach out to me directly at perrydj@aol.com
Additionally we’ve got first paperwork for a new deal on an older film in the library. Can you guess which film that might be? HINT: We’ve had the main theme of the film in our news headlines. Stay tuned!
This week business will continue to charge forward. At home – Our beans are slowing but the tomatoes are coming on fast and furious. My one pumpkin ‘Jack’ that was attacked has turned orange and so we do have one! The rhubarb/mulberry wine is ready to rack to the secondary. After a time in the secondary it goes to bottles. I’m also going to look at when we can do the shake siding on the office/fort. I really put in some time on the yard this past week which included discovering a large ground bee nest. I only got stung three times but now that’s been taken care of. Our furry boy Luke is on the mend and I hope that trend continues. Also today we have one of our last soccer games of our season before play offs. We’re looking like we might have low numbers today but we will battle with whatever warriors show up. Time to refill the coffee cup. Have a great week ahead.
DJ
DJ Perry's Official Blog 'Clawing My Way to the Middle' 