Movies, Life and Everything In-Between- CDI Updates!
Ah…the sip of the hazelnut coffee. It was actually a chilly morning. That means fire season is not too far behind. Today is also my furry son Finn’s 7th bday. It is hard to believe that since he still acts like a puppy often. I’m sipping the coffee and thinking back on my week. We’ll get into the movie biz developments soon enough. In the yard the berries are finally coming to an end so I’ll be trimming back those trees. The apples are getting ripe but most are squirrel food. We are still harvesting veggies and herbs. Today should be the last day of stain and seal on the deck. I did the touch ups and now a finally coat on the steps and we can call it done. The new gazebo will be going up once we find an outdoor rug we like. The chickens have been kicking out the eggs which is always good. The outdoor zen has been in full effect.
We had our first play off soccer match and won 1-0 in another epic match. The other team fought right to the last seconds. I was a tad stiff in the legs yesterday but I’ll be ready for our next match on Thursday. I love the intense workout and I’m in really good shape here at the end of the season. I really do love the game and so happy I am still able to play at the level I am. My next big work out will be log splitting, moving, stacking and such. I’m also looking into having the outdoor rafters at the fort enclosed to keep birds out and finish it off properly. Okay, now onto movie updates!
- Harsens Island Revenge (HIR) is now playing both the Emagine Macomb after they had some first night tech issue but that has been resolved. And the Riverside Cinemas where those from in and around the actual Harsens Island can watch this throwback in time movie of the Purple Gang trying to put their thumb on a group of WW1 vets. We hope that Emagine will move it around to other theaters in September we will see.
- Home video release for Harsens Island Revenge will be 10/6/25 and we have a marketing meeting this week. Also in the planning are a few event showings w/ dinner and mixer after the home video release. We will have some cast on hand to sign DVD’s posters and such. These will be fun to put together. We will keep you posted on when and where.
- HIR will be playing one night only at the Forest City, Iowa location on September 19th where part of SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA was filmed. We are still trying to lock down a booking for Algona at Fridley’s so CALL the theater and request Harsens Island Revenge. If you did see the film please feel welcome to go to our http://www.imdb.com page and VOTE (10 is best) and leave a review of what you enjoyed in the film. This helps us overall.
- Wild Faith Christmas is in the final polishing stage and once we do a big screen check we’ll master it for the theaters. We are looking to start rolling it out in November starting in Lansing, MI and up to Alpena, Owosso and across the state before expanding to other states. The film is exciting and heartfelt and it just might be the jump start we need to produce the eight shows for season 1 already written. Again we will see.
- ROM COMS MUST DIE the dark comedy about filmmaking has headed into the studio in the pines to start work on the musical score. I think we might do an end of the year premiere or two before we start rolling to theaters first of the new year. This film is a true joy to watch and I think it will be well received. The trailer was meant to be out by now but the last few tweaks are being done on the preview trailer.
- We are in pre-production for THE SECRET OF THE KINGDOM CHIP. We are still assigning the final investment units and bringing on board sponsors. We have some great brands joining us in telling this story. Many are following the FB page and watching the art team developments and the addition of cast and crew. We just added a great talent after she read and loved the script and that would be Mary Badham, nominated for an Academy Award for playing ‘Scout’ in the classic To Kill a Mockingbird. I enjoyed our conversation over the story which is unique and powerful. I loved when she compared my writing to Rod Sterling of The Twilight Zone. So this week will be more follow up as we pull all the resources together to film later next month. If you want to explore getting involved as a sponsor or backer please do reach out. Beyond production there is always marketing and various ways to assist.
- I love to write especially in the winter time but I did get inspired and I’ve been working on a first draft to the sequel to MAN’S BEST FRIEND. I get asked about this film often and what happened to Paul the lead. It is probably the most requested sequel behind Wild Faith, which fans will get in a few short months. I don’t have any immediate plans to film MBF2 but I’ve had the story for a while and so I’m getting it out of my head. I have some other writing projects looming for the winter.
(Inside Emagine Macomb sent by one of my cousins)
WRAP UP: I want to thank all of you who help support these film endeavors. Funding is not easy. Production is not easy. Delivery is not easy. Promotion is not easy. But if it was easy everyone would do it. A phrase we’ve used and I recently had told to me. I have to keep seeking storytellers at heart to help us move these stories along. We have a few remaining weeks to hit it hard and pull everything together for The Secret of the Kingdom Chip. We’ll be positioning Wild Faith Christmas to follow HIR into theaters right after HIR has moved into streaming and DVD. It is a wheel or creating art and keeping it moving. I was having a day where I wasn’t happy with the productivity for the day and I realized how well we are truly doing. Three films moving down the pipeline with another soon to film. Everyone of them a handcrafted story made with love and care.
Today I’ll do a bit of work on the film stuff along with some property work. Tomorrow I’ll be hitting it first thing and ready to have a great week ahead. I do have a funeral to attend for someone in our family circle who went too early to a horrible disease. That is why I don’t take any of it for granted. It can all change fast and for now I’m doing what I love and what is in my heart. I hope I can do it for many more years. But do use the losses in life to help yourself be fearless. Don’t fear failing fear never trying. I love our tribe of people and we’ll keep on telling the stories. I hope you keep after your dreams as well. As these last days of summer draw to a close embrace them. Soon the leaves will fall (some already are) and the cooler weather will be upon us. Until next week, be productive and be kind to one another.
DJ
Theatrical, Post Updates, Development and More…
Good morning my friends and fellow artists. I’m sipping ye ole hazelnut coffee and again I have Scooby Doo cartoons going on while I type. I had a great week which I’ll be happy to share on here including an end-of-week trip to the Henry Ford/Greenfield Village. We focused on the craftsman part of the village and enjoyed seeing the art of working with your hands and materials to create glass, pottery, weaving and more. A good lunch and company there and back to Lansing. I see that Ireland is where my second highest viewership is after the USA. I’m a good dose Irish so that is nice to see the support.
Last week we were shooting the final pieces of ROM COMS MUST DIE. I’ve already seen that scene added in and it was everything and more we had hoped to get. Next is a BIG screen viewing to lock picture and to make notes of sound fx adds and music cues. Travis Hayward and a team participated in the local Capitol City Film Fest winning Best Picture and the Audience Award. I will see it this week but I’m not surprised and it is what helped us decide to give him the feature film directorial opportunity. We will discuss future opportunities at our meeting this week. I’m also going to be meeting with Adam Towner who also deserves a congrats as part of that festival win. It is what also helped give him the opportunity to co-star in the feature film. But Adam is talented on both sides of the camera and we’ll be discussing the RCMD poster and first trailer. Always a fun meeting!
Harsens Island Revenge has been delivered and we’ll have some discussions this week on home video release plans. But that is happening in October and we’re kicking off the theatrical release on April 25th in Alpena, MI. We have a 1st showing for main cast and crew plus a handful of VIP’s as the Sanctuary Cinema theater is smaller. I’m told the second show is sold out and the 3rd that night will likely be sold out as well. The film should play strong in that area for several weeks. For those who cannot make the trek to Alpena the next premiere showing and run will be early May in Owosso, MI with the NCG theater. If you have an NCG in your area call and request the film with the manager. We are finalizing all that and we’ll be doing that with a nice afterglow. Our book author Karl Manke is from there as is CDI producer/director/writer/actor Anthony Hornus.
Speaking of mister Hornus (Tony) his last directorial film SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA is having a special one night theatrical showing at the Iowa Farm to Film Festival tomorrow. If you go to the film’s FB page you can listen to two great interviews by Tony. It is always worth seeing on the big screen but you can buy/rent on Amazon and other retail sites. It will go to free with ad watching this summer and I’ll be sure to let you know more about that.
Speaking on Iowa, I did have a great talk over another Iowa story SPIRIT LAKE MASSACRE that has been developing slowly. We have a second developing project from the Iowa area and that is the Frank Gotch story. He was the Catch Can world champion and hailed from Iowa. A real life Rocky story. It really takes people who want to see these stories immortalized and not forgotten. Every story happens in it’s own time I like to say.
Wild Faith Christmas is now being color corrected and undergoing music and sound design. I LOVE the characters from this franchise starting with WILD FAITH. As we get closer to a holiday release I’m going to start talking with some folks about the TV series. If you run a TV station or network and want a family friendly series with 20-30+ million previous viewers feel free to reach out. I have a few good meetings ahead that could move the needle on this TV series.
Speaking on sequels I was asked twice in one week about a sequel to Man’s Best Friend. I also had a dear lady say she had to stop watching for a few because of her crying. The film hits hard in the feels for dogs and veterans. I do have a full sequel outlined (One for Lost Heart also) and I might kick these out at some point.
Speaking on scripts I did finish my first draft of my latest THE KINGDOM CHIP. It is a real thought-provoking script that will lead to much needed conversation. It deals with many of the real challenges that lie ahead when it comes to technology. This project was written to loosely fit in with The Quest Trilogy. That is our series of biblical adventures filmed in the desert of Yuma, AZ. This script would possibly shoot in Yuma again with our friends there.
I’ve been approached about another possible script in addition to the couple books I’m looking at for adaptation to screenplay. I’m in a good place to write now and so I’m trying to lock in a deal on my next writing endeavor. I love earning from writing. Just me, my imagination and a cup of tea or coffee. Some of these projects might have CDI producing and some are for other talented groups to produce. It all requires a strong blue print.
On the development tip the proposed schedule is looking like a possible attempt to launch HOT ROD LOVE again which is our 70’s drag racing film. I’m talking and gathering a few verbal commits from people who love that sport. This fall/winter is perfect for our feature version of SMOKE & MIRRORS. (See CDI Youtube Channel) It is a ‘who done it?’ turn of the century piece. I love the writing of it and I’m doing a breakdown on that. And THE KINGDOM CHIP would be early Spring in Yuma, AZ if everything worked out. There are a few other projects in early development that could replace on the slate but the three above have a good strong start. I have not forgotten about a Knight Chills 2🙂
Misc Updates:
The NEW music video that CDI produced with Weyant Ent. from SHALLOW RISING was delivered and should release soon. The song is called BLIZZARD. I’m thinking we might also film another in the not to distant future. I’m also talking to a few others about more music videos (Mark Owen:) which I really do enjoy.
I do have some voice over work for a movie 4:26 that Carl Weyant directed after ours. I will likely knock that down in the next two weeks along with some VO work for ROM COMS MUST DIE. I am looking at a few outside acting gigs but it just has to be a right fit. I play a range of roles but the key is the connect. I have plans to try and do a new 2025/2026 reel. I get so busy and that often gets lost. But that can be good if you are working.
WRAP UP:
My office organizing has been going great. So has my property clean up from a long hard winter. I’ve been doing some tree trimming and also getting pots ready for planting. I’m still slowly deconstructing the wood shed and might replace it with a greenhouse. I will still need a place to process wood but I’m looking at some new ways of storing it. A deck sanding and staining is also right around the corner.
Soccer starts in May so that is right around the corner. I’ve been kicking the ball around trying to get my touch back. I’m also getting ready to go to my first flea market of the season! I love them. I find so many props and wardrobe for films. OK. I’m going to go make a few eggs and get showered up for my day.
I hope you all are having a great start to your 2025. Stay informed but don’t dwell on negatives. Listen to music and see how you can enact positive change around you. Laugh daily and keep checking things off that TO DO list. I’m anxious to see how the rest of the year unfolds. I’m sure there will be ups and downs as that is the way of life. Twelve days before the first audiences see Harsens Island Revenge in the theaters.
Have a wonderful week and a happy 50th Bday to my baby bro. I look forward to celebrating later!
DJ
New Premiere/Theatrical Showings and CDI Film Updates!
Good morning! I’m up and at it a bit earlier this morning. I have my trusted hazelnut coffee beside me and Scooby Doo playing on the TV. It takes it back to my childhood. What a week. First a big RIP to Val Kilmer who was such a talented actor. Gone too soon after too many challenges. That is why everyone should count their blessings. Health is wealth and remember that while we all deal with the ups and downs in life. This week went by quickly ending in a bday gathering for my niece yesterday. Today we film the last piece of the Rom Coms Must Die movie. We need a change of season look from our previous Fargo heavy snow look. This will be my last scene for Amos Edison and that will officially wrap that character. That film is edited save the opening and insert footage we will film today. The color correction is about 60% there and dialog and some sound design has been done. Once this footage is edited in we’ll lock it and watch through for sound design and music cues. I think I’ll be able to better focus on development once this is finally put to bed.
Harsens Island Revenge released a new hype trailer we call “Dark Days” that shows the darker aspects of the film. It leaves the romance alone and focuses more on the tension and intensity. The film will release April 25th in Alpena, MI with one cast and crew afternoon showing followed by two public showings. It will play likely for two weeks minimum. We have already started working on the other premiere showings and theatrical runs. The Owosso, Michigan showing is about set up and we’ll be announcing it this coming week. It is early in May at the NCG chain and we’re trying to get more theaters involved. We’ll focus on Michigan first and start spreading out from there. This film will place well on the big screen with all the action. We also will start looking at select film festivals to show at as well.
Wild Faith Christmas has locked the picture and color correction is in full swing. Also dialog is about done and music and sound design is underway with the talented Dennis Therrian. This film has so much heart and just like the original should really hit a spot with audiences. We are looking to land it in theaters in November of this year. I was looking at a picture the other day of me with the Ben Lily beard and I was amazed at how big it was. That is what is so much fun doing the character transformations. I might have noted this last week but once I put Amos to bed today I’m characterless.
I’ve read one of two books this week that I was approached about writing considering. By that I mean turning a book into a screenplay. I’ve done that for several books and it is a good service to offer. On some of the books the author/publisher also paid for CDI to produce the film. So I’m looking at three such possible book to screenplay writing gigs. The first book I really liked and it would make a good movie. The second book is more action and we’ll see how that read goes. I’ve got a detective story I’ve already agreed to do I’m waiting to evaluate and work out the fine details on that project. I did finish the script I was working currently and I’m half way through a solid polish on it. This script project could take CDI back to Yuma, AZ in the “window” when Michigan is frozen and Yuma has not yet become a scorcher. I talked with one of our producers there this week to touch base and catch up.
Yuma, AZ is where we filmed our three biblical adventures in THE QUEST TRILOGY. If you are fans of the CDI storytelling treat yourself to these three films. Forty Nights, Chasing the Star and The Christ Slayer and do watch them in that order to grasp the greater story being told. The script I just finished and I’m polishing somewhat fits into that “universe” of films. I had some good talks with Carl Weyant who starred in the third film The Christ Slayer and who just directed Harsens Island Revenge with us. He wants to be one of the first to read the new script. These films are inspirational without being preachy or forced. If you just need an uplift take a watch on the trilogy and again let me know what you think here.
A Christmas Seance and Hot Rod Love will both be looked at an evaluated as possibles too. I’ve been having key conversations about these projects. Like I was saying once we wrap today it will focus more of my attention on development. Writing and organizing have been a good amount of my time. I’ve still got a few end of year business loose ends but almost there. There is always so much work to do with the films but it is worth the end result. In a few weeks we get to treat audiences to our next story. But there are many films to enjoy in the CDI library. For lovers of film in our town of Lansing, MI the local fest is underway. I was going to attend the opening mixer but I was just so tired at the days end from dealing with movie business.
WRAP UP:
Outside of the films the yard clean up is going well and I’ll be planting more clover. The chickens are doing well kicking about 5 eggs a day. My wood shed dismantle prep is going well and I’m filling the bins. I’m still having fires at the office in the wood stove. Soccer season is around the corner and I’ve been doing some training for that. Always something but keeping that balance of working in nature and desk work is healthy. I’m going to fuel up well for todays filming likely with some of those aforementioned eggs. The sunshine and warmer weather is really helping my motivation and mood. I’m going to wrap it up here. Keep working towards your goals and keep your smile if things don’t always go exactly as planned. Usually it is just patience and persistence that you need to practice a bit more of. Alright my artist friends keep on keeping on!
DJ
SECRETS of the ‘TO DO’ and CDI Updates for March 2025!
Good morning. I see new readers from Sweden, Switzerland, Poland and more. I want to welcome you here as I sip the hazelnut coffee and reflect back on the week of an artist. Actually a tribe of artists who are working to stay the course while the world evolves. I like to say that if the world went to “hell in a hand basket” Tribe CDI would be pulling a wagon doing puppet shows for can goods. The world just like ourselves could benefit from better communication skills. You see it on the highest levels and it trickles down to the smaller more intimate exchanges.
This past week was extremely productive and I plan to have this new month follow in those same footsteps. One of the SECRETS I use is to truly use a checklist of TO DO’s for each endeavor. I have some that still show up without a legal pad, notebook or even a tablet. Things are fresh in the moment but can easily be lost in the static of life. I have multiple things going past, present and future and my lists help keep it all in step. If you don’t use a list maybe try it for a week or two and see if your productivity increases. You can prioritize what needs to be done and when. It becomes satisfying to cross things off your list. Try it. You might like the results.
UPDATES!
- Harsens Island Revenge (HIR) master file was delivered and I’m told that our theatrical file was done as of yesterday. We are looking to see if it can be delivered digital or if it has to be in person. Shane Hagedorn is communicating with the Alpena theater to see if they can accept a digital send. He is also looking to set up our premiere and theatrical date. So if you are reading this and you’re from the area now is the time to start calling and letting them know your interest. End of March or start of April is looking like our kick off.
- HIR – More We are looking to pen our deal with our theatrical partners this week and discuss all the other venues. I know we’ll be moving around Michigan and I think folks will really enjoy the film. It is slick with some great action and romance all woven into some cool Michigan history. If you want a preview you can read Karl Manke‘s book of the same name.
- HIR – has a few new trailers that will be rolling out to audiences. We are also discussing a music video as a possibility for one of the participating artists. The theatrical tour will be from March to Sept and we hope to open our home video on 10/1/2025 whereas you can buy a collectors DVD and stream the film.
- Wild Faith Christmas – The 1st solid cut of the film was shown in the studio on Friday and we had tears from one of our test subjects. We are looking at a few some tweaks to be done with our final polishing pass. But those few tweaks aside we have a powerful and emotional follow up to WILD FAITH. I’m very proud of the entire team led by Shane Hagedorn our director.
- I’m polishing the last show of 8 in the first season of the proposed TV series WILD FAITH: HASTINGS. It was such a joy to revisit these stories and adjust them to take place after the second film versus the first one. If the right deal emerges that allows us to keep the creative control we could bring audiences back into the Wild Faith world for eight 44 min shows. If the interest is there the shows will be ready. So my first writing assignment of 2025 is about to be checked off my list.
- Monday we’ll be getting together with Director Travis Hayward and reviewing the first cut of ROM COMS MUST DIE. This dark comedy was filmed in February and thanks to the dedicated editing by DP John McGraw we have a first cut. We’ll look at beats and ideas to tweak and strengthen the film for edit pass two. That said, the film is already so fun to watch. Some sound design and graphic work is already done and I’m very pleased. I had a chance to really cut loose with Adam Towner as a co-star. I’m also extremely pleased at how the story presents itself. It seems twisted and silly on the surface but really has a lot to say about acting, filmmaking and chasing artistic dreams. I think fans of the genre will really be happy with the project.
- We have some concept art for ROM COMS MUST DIE but I’m excited to see a few posters emerge. I’ve also seen sneak peeks of some of the Wild Faith Christmas posters and I’m very excited on that front. We like to have the theatrical poster be a version that pleases the director because once it passes to home video they will create what they feel will connect and sell to audiences best. Ultimately I LOVE lots of poster versions but the first one I like to be one that the director ultimately approves.
- As I come out of the end of the year work with accounting and taxes I’m looking ahead. Development has been underway for a while but I’m starting to zero in on projects. Some already have some momentum. Others are looking to build their foundations. It is a process and like my talks some some good friends who produce at a higher budget level – a film sometimes happens in that story’s own time. I am going to get much more focused here as we get ‘Harsens’ rolling out into theaters also.
- Going hand in hand with what I was writing on above with development is writing. I have a meeting next week on a script for hire. I have a few others circling but it only becomes real with pen meets paper and currency is exchanged. We had one project last year that looked very promising but when it was time for rubber to meet the road – no dice. It happens. But you have to be careful about your time. Some people just don’t work at my pace and that is just fine. But I don’t have the time to take 10 years dancing around and taking meetings for things that don’t evolve.
- Acting. I love acting it is why I go through all the producing work. I’m still behind on getting new reels cut and such. I did finally get some headshots last year but I’m always in motion. By that I mean that I’m often quite busy creating characters. I’ve also been busy filming so even if I had many offers coming in I would still have to be highly selective. I’ve always asked that one role gets me one more role. Maybe that means put your everything into a performance and that should draw you another beautiful opportunity. Audiences are about to meet Axel and Edison and spend time again with ole Ben Lily. What is next? That is a good question. I don’t have an immediate answer so that is really quite exciting.
WRAP UP: You can feel spring in the air and I spent a good amount of the last blog talking about that. Today is going to be quite special because I’m getting a special behind the scenes tour of our local zoo. I’ve always loved that place and I went with my grandfather since I was a toddler. We still enjoy it for birthdays, holidays and such. I had an otter steal my sunglasses before so I might get to see that rascal again. I’m told we’re going to meet the rhino so that will be pretty cool. I would like to explore ways to work with the zoo in the future. I’m so glad that it keeps growing and evolving.
It is still chilly outside and so the wood stove will get a work out tonight at the office. But we’re getting close to that getting a good yearly clean and go silent. I love the crackling of the fire and I pull inspiration from the dancing flames. As noted above we’ll have some great development and production meetings in the weeks ahead. I bottled up the Paw Paw/Rhubarb wine and it was pretty good. We tried it on my dear friends birthday. It takes kind of like a Pineapple Lemonade with a mild punch. I do have an Irish Stout that will be on deck for a late Summer brew and will be enjoyed when the wood stove fire comes alive again.
I’m going to get after some eggs here for breakfast before my zoo adventure. I hope you all are having a great Sunday. I hope your weekend gave you a recharge and leaves you ready to attack the new week. Try using the TO DO lists and see what that does for you. I so appreciate you all stopping here each week to catch up. It is not easy being an artist always but it is always rewarding. I’ve seen the world and met wonderful people all in the name of storytelling. Until next week!
Coffee Cheers!
Formation, Communication and the Art of Victory!
Hazelnut coffee cheers to each of you. It is again a very snowy morning here in Michigan. I’m excited to sit down and reflect about the journey and the accomplishments. Recently I was reading one of the many versions of THE ART OF WAR and one thing jumped out on this read. FORMATION AND COMMUNICATION. Now I’ve spoken many times on communication and that being a key to success. Formation was a new concept to ponder. As a lifelong martial artist my goals are to bring out the best in each individual and when placed in a proper “formation” victory is achieved. The soccer player and coach in me allows two perspectives of teamwork that I also find helpful. My camp counselor training helps best when we are off filming. Because you have people living outside their comfort zone pushing their focus and artistic abilities to the max.
The enemy of most artist lie in-between the gigs, campaigns, adventures. Any organization thrives by having a strong core and for our group that is the producers. They don’t work per hour, task or under salary. They work to develop properties and do the hardest part of it all, fund it. Once up that big hill is when the next stage of hard work begins which is putting the plan in motion. When you look at all the work that goes into it you might be lucky to make a penny an hour. (Maybe less) Why do we do it? When you see all the happy artists working like ants, all knowing their task, it is a sight to behold. When you see that story that started on a page flicker to life in a dark room it is truly magic. When your name arises to say that you worked with this team and created something that would have never existed. Furthermore will continue to exist after one passes from this lifetime. I have an ever-growing list of filmmaking friends no longer with us and I would like to think that they are happy that they created with their friends as they look us still living.
Financially for a large % of artists you make very modest wages if lucky enough to make wages at all. We take pride in the preserving of history both in story and the artists that told those stories. Kathryn Combs, award winning wardrobe supervisor. Actors like Randy Godwin, Bill McKinney, Rance Howard, Pappy, Russ Stine, Popcorn Sutton and Dan ‘Grizzly Adams’ Haggerty just to name a few who brought characters to life. Sound operators like Eric Holloway and Josh Holloway. I could unfortunately go on and on but at least their names are still spoken with a laugh and a good story. I task myself with the funding of these projects and collectively it is made a bit easier. I work to earn and justify larger budgets to help ease the life of our artists. But the truth is I only take a few weeks of the non-producers life each year. I always say, if the 3-6 weeks I work with someone paying modest wages fumbles up their year someone is doing something wrong elsewhere. I would love to be at the level where 3-6 weeks working with us could be a good part/all of that person’s yearly income but I’m not there.
But I can say that I’m getting closer every day. Because I work towards that goal every day. I often joke when someone addresses the modest wages that unless they rip off their ski mask and hand me a bag a money, I’m doing the best I can. I think what I’m saying is you get zero bonus points for pointing out the obvious. I like to say, I pay problem solvers not identifiers. Why? Because problems have been identified. So the team works hard to obtain the funds for a new story endeavor. At that point we evaluate the crew. (* See that ART OF WAR ‘formation’ talk above) And offers of “date, rate, do you wish to participate?” is presented. First right of refusal usually goes to the previous crew member who did a job to their very best. I will say that in the few times that someone is passed over it is almost NEVER because of their skill set. It is almost always because of their attitude. Negativity is a cancer on a film set and there is nothing wrong with not being cut out for feature filmmaking. Some thrive much better in short, controlled environments like commercials and/or music videos… So if production or the artist aren’t happy they just pass on a project. A new hungry, enthusiastic person will be given an opportunity. NOTE I did not say young. Those attributes can come from anyone with their race, age, sex, religion or politics not disqualifying them. At CDI we have the entire spectrum. You leave those personals at the doorstep and come to collectively tell a story. The only thing we own is the ability to collaborate with one another and if both parties agree to collaborate a mutual artistic bond is forged.
Heat and pressure are applied to the coal and some will burn up and others will become diamonds. Over time you will have a handful of diamonds. Pressure can be external and internal and that is what you control and what you process. We always have artists under pressure and they will either burn out or diamond up. Many great artists have burned up and retired from the hardened journey and they are still celebrated for what they did. I always try to share stories of CDI’s journey as we are built now on multiple generations of artists. Others will march on and fight until they are carried out on their shield. That is their story. I often try to tell people if you can do anything else and your spirit is at peace, do it. But if not you better find your tribe. The journey is hard alone. I know because I started that way but I’ve got an army of artists now. I want to give my sincere and heartfelt appreciation to all the artists at CDI. Enough of the hardships let’s talk about the results.
FILM UPDATES:
- https://mmw.news/2025/02/15/harsens-island-revenge-signs-home-video-deal/ The news is spreading that ‘Harsens Island Revenge‘ has signed their home video deal for DVD and streaming. It will release on Oct 1st, 2025 with theatrical play running from March-Sept 2025. The film is being brought to the Lansing, MI studio to start mastering for delivery to home video and to create our theatrical film. Once in hand we will set up the screening in Alpena, MI if the theater management is open to it. So start your call in campaign now:)
- Sticking to the Harsens Island Revenge film, I’ve seen a new trailer recently mastered by Dennis Therrian. It is one of several new marketing pieces that will start rolling out. We already have other theaters starting to inquire about the film playing so that is a good sign.
- WILD FAITH is one of CDI’s most popular films. We have worked for years trying to launch the TV show HASTINGS. Being such a large step which could have happen but I refused to let go of creative control. So our in-between step was the sequel feature film WILD FAITH CHRISTMAS. I’m so giddy with delight because I’ve been the recipient of so much fan mail from fans who love the original film. They are why I could not sell out the creative control. What will have now is a sequel that matches all the magic of the original. I literally get goosebumps watching the film and I think fans will love this next installment. The distributor was pushing us for Christmas content and so this film made sense. Not the run-of-the-mill romantic comedy silliness this has all the adventure of the original. BEST NEWS is that on Tuesday which happens to be both our director Shane Hagedorn and senior producer Anthony Hornus day of birth we will be dropping the trailer. This morning one little end credit correction but it is ready to roll. We are all so excited for you all to see it!
- Just as Harsens Island Revenge finishes the film’s theatrical run on Sept 30th, Wild Faith Christmas will be releasing Nov 1st into theaters for the holidays and into the new year. The film trailer will release on the CDI Youtube Channel and be shared to social media on the CDI/Wild Faith Christmas Facebook page. In 2026 after the theatrical run the film will be prepared for holiday 2026 home video release!
- Let’s take a hard left turn to ROM COMS MUST DIE. This dark comedy was an awesome challenge to shoot in a few days with some of those days being bitter cold. The others in the studio with our partners at McGraw Multimedia. CDI is going to be producing a series of feature films that are shot both on location and in-studio. The first experimental film was a HUGE success! The shoot went very smooth and I’ve already seen a rough cut. The film is everything we had hoped for and more. I found myself impatiently tuning in daily to see editing progress because I wanted to see what was next. I knew what was next as I wrote the screenplay but to see it come off the pages it a thrill only writers know. Zany, funny, smart and highly entertaining is my first response to watching it. Director Travis Hayward will start refining the cut with the editor John McGraw. But what I’ve already seen has me excited. Poster and trailer talk as well as I’ve seen a BTS underway. The BTS has a few spoilers so we might have to hold on that but it captures the fun we all had.
- Behind the scenes I’ve spent two weeks behind the desk working with legal and accounting getting end of the year and new year business all completed. We had a payout to investors at the end of December and so that was completed. We’re looking at ways to streamline our business even more as we are growing and producing more content. This is the unsexy part of our business but needed to move ahead. Special thanks to COO Dean Teaster, legal John Mashni and the staff at Davison & associates and my bankers.
- As I’m almost caught up on the business I’m looking ahead. We have a few projects gaining momentum and developing. I’m excited to start looking ahead. We have so much going on now and it is only Feb! I don’t want to get too much into development today but know it is always happening.
WRAP UP: The chickens have been increasing their egg laying as the light returns. Now if only the warmth can return. I’m already looking ahead to gardening and the new improvements to the property. A new firewood rack is going to be put together. I also might replace the old firewood structure with a little greenhouse. The new deck is going to be fun to work on and under. A new retaining wall and either pavers or a bottom deck will be added. At some point a sanding and staining will also take place.
I also have some ideas for inside the office to help organize better. I have a corner shelf unit I want to install. I’m just trying to wait until it gets a touch warmer. But I might go ahead and order it soon. I do hope each and everyone of you is having a good start to your year. I know everyone has challenges and the key is coming up with a plan and moving in that direction. I’m thankful that a loved one who gave us a recent health scare had good news. I know a few others awaiting good news and I hope they get it. This world is always changing especially with technology. We are embracing that technology and those changes. We are going to keep doing our thing and we hope our stories bring a little joy and laughter to your lives. I’m going to go make some breakfast and refill ye ole coffee cup. Until next week!
Coffee Cheers!
DJ
Into 2025! Here We Go!
A big hazelnut coffee cheers on a VERY bitter cold morning. And WELCOME to 2025! We are off and running in the new year. This past week was some good prep and progress on projects. We are starting to collect our paperwork and funds for our ROM COMS MUST DIE comedy we will be shooting with Travis Hayward directing. I’ve been slowly morphing into this new role and working to get stuff prepared to film at the end of the month. We had two end of the year Christmas gatherings with my parents and family. Good food, fun and laughter. We are preparing to send over info to the accountants for issuing 1099 and K1’s on our last film WILD FAITH CHRISTMAS. On last briefing with our director Shane Hagedorn the edit was at the 70-72 min mark. We are in the final act of the story and Shane commented how enjoyable it was spending time with those characters.
Harsens Island Revenge has been in final color correction and clean up. I watched the most recent version yesterday. It was beautiful and sounded just incredible. The added days for the color mix were worth it. We noted a few end credit format fixes and a handful of small fixes that would make the film even more complete. That is noticeable out of period things that appear in the film. Only noticeable to a few folks perhaps but if we can fix it we will. So we’re taking another 3-4 days to correct and another 19 hour render for our lower resolution film file. The 4k takes almost two days to render out. But my plan is to show the nearly complete film file to our potential distributors. These fixes have dragged our timeline by about 2 weeks. But thankfully we are not in a crunch. But it is looking like the 1st premiere might be end of February as it takes time to set up and market these events. But I promise the slight delay will be worth it when it hits the big screen.
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA has been being enjoyed by families both on select big screens and streaming on most platforms with Amazon Prime being most popular. This year in June/July we’ll see the film move onto even more platforms for ad based video on demand. If you have not seen this CDI wartime film set during WW2, do so. It is a great piece of true history and one that will touch your heart.
KNIGHT CHILLS our 1st CDI film is going to get its first streaming release on 1/31/25. We’ll be doing some more PR on this as we get a bit closer but I am excited to have it play streaming. Buy the book on Amazon too now!
Looking Forward into 2025–
- As noted we’ll be rolling cameras on the comedy ROM COMS MUST DIE.
- End of February will likely be our first Harsens Island Revenge premiere.
- End of February will also be the targeted month to move WILD FAITH CHRISTMAS into music and sound design. We are still targeting a Nov 1st theatrical release.
- Projects are under development that could have us filming a feature in the Summer and one in the Fall. Script feedback and funding are always factors so we’ll see how that works out.
- More merchandise will be finding its way to the CDI Store which you can get to via http://www.cdiproductions.com
- More literary work will be coming out in 2025 on Amazon joining the IN THE WOODS (script/making of & novel) and the KNIGHT CHILLS novel.
- We have plans to try and remaster the remaining 3 films in the ‘CDI Classic Collection’ FROM VENUS, HEAVEN’S NEIGHBORS and FIGURE IN THE FOREST. The last two can be bought as a DVD double feature on the merchandise site. We are fighting against old format and a ‘film look’ filter applied all those years ago.
- I’m going going to finish the last couple of the WILD FAITH HASTINGS TV series scripts that need to be adjusted to take place after film two. I’ve got a few other pet projects and possible work-for-hire scripts to write. I do love to write and this cold weather is perfect for allowing one to focus upon this task.
- I do want to get a CDI Highlight Reel and also an actors reel for myself showcasing some of the more recent performances. I got some new headshots late last year but I need a few new showcase pieces. But the roles keep coming so I guess that is a good excuse for not getting new materials together. But still…
- Lastly, I’m looking ahead to warm weather and the new endeavors on the property. I’ve got a new log rack and want to rebuild the wood shed. The above and below parts of the new deck will be fun to “deck out” to coin a phrase. I harvested and gifted a lot of tea this year. I’m going to bottle a new wine made with paw paw fruit. I also have an Irish beer to make sometime this winter. It is always nice to pop a few bottles over a good meeting. So it will be fun to revitalize the property and that always takes some planning.
WRAP UP: As the news said, a horrible way to start the new year with the attach in the French Quarter, New Orleans. Someone stole the new year optimism and lives from a handful of people. Others forever changed by injury and the poor families. I’ve spent time there in the French Quarter and it is heartbreaking. I’m more low key these days having already done the crowds and crazy in my youth. Now I like quiet contemplation going into the new year. I’m ready to create projects, moments and memories with fellow artists, family and friends. I’m looking forward to the journey and will work to keep the energy bright and positive. Enjoy the challenges and the rewards. There are many who are unable to meet challenges beyond day to day survival. But each day and breath is a reward. I love nature and use it to rejuvenate myself. I had a moment the other day with technology, one of the few things that can disrupt my zen. But thankfully I have talented friends with some patience. I do try to learn new processes and technologies but it doesn’t always come easy.
I’m going to wrap things up here to go to bday gathering for a family member. Later I will get to see my brother and a few friends for the first time in 2025. Stay warm. Stay safe. And we’ll talk next week. I hope you all are enjoying your first days of 2025. Look ahead at what you want to accomplish and start moving in that direction. And for our Detroit Lions (football) let’s hope for a victory tonight. Coffee cheers to you all.
DJ
Final Countdown to Filming – Other CDI Updates!
A wonderful morning to everyone out there. I’m sipping on the ole hazelnut java and looking forward to spending a few moments with all of you. Next week this time will be day one of pre-production on WILD FAITH CHRISTMAS (WFXmas). I want to welcome all the Latin America new readers as well as Ireland, UK, France and more. Again I’m proud of our circle of artists. I want to explore how to promote the blog a bit more but I’ve been so busy with tasks at hand. Last night we had a bday gathering which was nice and I look forward to Friday pumpkin carving with my mom and brother’s family and kids. I hear my nephew wants to be an orc like in Dungeons and Dragons or Lord of The Rings and my niece wants to be a scary clown. I’ve been doing yard prep for winter in-between all my film prep work. I’ve been cutting up wood for the wood stove because I had my first fire last Sunday. I was happy that I was able to take down a modest sized tree that was rubbing the house during windstorms. I dropped it without hitting the house, gutters, deck or power line and so I was well pleased.
Working with the other WFXmas producers we almost have everything in line. I’m still crossing a few things off the TO DO list. I’ve been waking up each morning to look into the mirror and see ‘Ben Lily’ staring back. It will be great to play ole Ben again and next to Jesus he’s the only role I’ve played in two different films. Again the season is upon us for the biblical adventures and so do watch FORTY NIGHTS, CHASING THE STAR and THE CHRIST SLAYER. Ben and Jesus both require the epic beard but they are quite different from one another. Wardrobe, craft service, guns, basecamp items have all been handed off to the correct departments. I’ve been working on landing a few new sponsors for WFXmas and even some release sponsors for the upcoming Harsens Island Revenge. I’m really trying to get FORD involved for the Harsens film. It is all Fords in the film and I would love a special event at The Henry Ford Museum. I have a few upcoming meetings with some great potential national/international sponsors this week to join those we’ve done business with. I think these films are a great showcase for many brands and products and have many great promotional possibilities. If you have a brand or company small or large and want to join us please do reach out.
Let’s do a good old TOP TEN of new developments in no particular order!
- Meeting Monday about laying the foundation of some new studio development projects. We might be able to get funding directly from a source studio for the right projects. We will see how that goes but I’m optimistic. I’m in that active 2025 development phase.
- It is nice to have one feature on deck for Q1 2025 which is the comedy horror ROM COMS MUST DIE. Once we get to the other side of WFXmas we’ll lock down some hard dates. I would love to get some strong teaser art going over the holidays.
- I think I have all the deliverables in place for the KNIGHT CHILLS streaming release. I just need to await laugh dates. We also have a theatrical release run for it in the NYC area which I’ll supply information once I receive it.
- The CDI Literary division is kicking off with Katharsys Media who previous released the MAKING OF IN THE WOODS (Hard & Soft Cover) and the IN THE WOODS novel. All these plus my script for PANDEMONIUM (ITW prequel) are all on Amazon. The KNIGHT CHILLS novel proofs are being sent and will be going up for sale soon. The book after that might be the Script/Making of Knight Chills and/or Ghost Town and An Ordinary Killer. They make great gifts.
- I told you all that I’ve been a contributing writer to several true short stories that include animals. I’ve been involved in the Baker Books collections on cats, dogs, horses and now birds. These books are internationally distributed but usually found at airport bookstores I’m told. The new book releases on Dec 2nd and so I’ll pass along the info once I get it.
- CDI Merchandise is being set up as a fundraising tool for veterans and animals via The Red, White and Blue Project non-profit. It will go active end of November! Every purchase will benefit good causes and we are all thrilled by that.
- Speaking on the benefitting of the veteran non-profit above- AN ORDINARY KILLER will soon be releasing as a fundraising tool also helping Two Average Joes Media that works on cold case files. The HD DVD and Streaming film will be available in time for Christmas.
- We are prepping things for a few event screenings of SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA (SNIA) back into select theaters. We’ll be working with our new partners at Dreamscape Productions. That deal should be in place this coming week. This film is an excellent watch for the holiday season either in theaters (a great way to see it) or at home with family. It is also still playing TV and mid next year will start playing free with ads streaming. This based on a true WW2 story is very touching.
- Harsens Island Revenge music is done and the film will start to be mixed and mastered with our Director Carl Weyant and our post audio supervisor and composer Dennis Therrian. We will be using the SNIA theatrical as a template for the Q1 theatrical. When we return mid Nov from Alpena shooting we’ll sit down for a producers watch of the full film. Once locked we’ll start planning the series of premieres and plan what festivals and events will be treated to this gem. I’m very proud of this film as it showcases where we are as a company. I’m glad we slowed the roll on the final mastering as it will allow a more careful mix. This is the 2nd book by Karl Manke turned into a film. The previous book HOPE FROM HEAVEN became BEST YEARS GONE. Seek that film out and take a watch. This is director Carl Weyant’s first CDI directing job in feature film but he can be seen acting in THE CHRIST SLAYER (Part 3 of The Quest Trilogy) and the above mentioned SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA. Carl makes a cameo appearance in Harsens Island Revenge but go back and watch Carl in action as an actor. He’s a talented young man I’m proud to call a friend.
- I’ve been slow in finishing my rewrite on the remaining 6 shows of WILD FAITH HASTINGS the proposed TV series. I’ll use my momentum from the sequel to come home and finish those up. I’ve been looking to see what I will write on over the winter months. If I don’t have a set writing project I’ll turn my attention to a few of the unfinished ones I have as work in progress. A great SciFi piece, a few comedy pieces and more. It is always about the funds behind a project but you always need a blue print first. But to get good at writing you just need to keep doing it.
(Anthony “Tony” Hornus in BEST YEARS GONE)
WRAP UP: I’m going to wrap this up. We’re going to go visit the last flea market of the season and I’ll look for any final props or gifts. I found a good gift for my amigo Tony Hornus the other day. I love giving gifts to people. They say you are wealthy but what you can give away not what you have. I’m blessed with good family and friends. I’m comfortable with my needs and only have a few wants. I live simple and spend much time in and with nature. The Detroit Lions play today and they have been doing very well but my heart goes out to one of our players who suffered a bad leg injury last week. As an athlete myself I understand the risk and reward of sports. They are not 100% safe. Life is not 100% safe. You want to be smart, cautious and thoughtful but life is too short to be 100% safe. Especially when it comes to following a dream. I’m caught in that often in business because I feel honor bound to play it safe especially with other’s money. But often big profits lie in risk. I often choose modest profits because I cannot afford the big risk. I would rather keep doing what I love versus reaching too far and having it all come to a grinding stop. But I am working hard to get better budgets so I can compensate our incredible artists better and market our films further into the world at large. Step by step. I might even do a few video updates from on set versus writing or I might move the blog day to Saturday which is the off day for production. Maybe both:) Thank you all for stopping through. Find me on Instagram to see some cool reels of our films my personal one is officialdjperry and the CDI one is tribecdi – enjoy! Have a wonderful day and a productive week!
DJ
Youth, Experience, Wisdom and Loss
(Finn waiting for his buddy Jake to race)
Hazelnut coffee cheers from your artist friend DJ Perry enjoying a cool non-humid morning. My furry boy woke me early to go do his races with his buddy Jake. A lady walks her dog daily and they meet at the fence and do a series of “bop and go” runs. That is one barks GO! And they both bop the fence with their snout and run down and back along the fence line. I was proud of him because he hates fireworks, even the word. But even after a morning barrage set by some young yahoos likely not even to bed yet, he still returned to run. Usually it was one BOOM and he’s done. Let’s follow this conversation with yahoos.
I was once a yahoo which is a young foolish, self-centered, invincible-acting youth. We use to have a massive 4th party at my buddies house whereas so many fireworks were set off. This was not a country house but in a neighborhood and I can’t imagine the amount of distress we caused homeowners pets. And now I live in the karma. Also since last Monday my week has had a sad background to it all. Dear friends of mine that I actually introduced and who celebrated 30 years together recently lost their son. I knew this young man since he was a baby on up. He was like a nephew before I had a nephew. He had a ultra loving home and he was a well mannered, kind and humorous soul. But much like myself and many other’s he occasionally sought a BUZZ to be more social. Not all buzz’s lead down a dark place and for many it is just a phase. For some it can lead to a tragic ending and that is what happened here. This new generation seems to have much more dangerous substances too readily available. I’m not saying alcohol isn’t destructive because it surely can be. It can cost friendships, marriages, health and life either in bad decisions or eating your vitality. I will mourn this loss for a lifetime because it came way too soon.
I use to drink too much in my younger days but it was by choice, boredom and to deal with some of the early setbacks and failures of trying to get ahead in the film industry. I see the battles many young actors and filmmakers are going through. I feel for them because their passion is like a disease. It can be devastating to believe you are meant to do something without the means to do it. But keeping a clear head and trying different avenues is slowly revealing a path to success. After several wrong turns through the maze you start to gain ground. Experience teaches you and prepares your emotions for rejection. I told someone recently, you know me for my 30-40% of success but not of my 60-70% of setbacks. I’ve been dealing with those setbacks even now. I get something in place and it unravels. I put a piece in place and another falls off. But that is the way.
My belated birthday trip to Greenfield Village on Friday gave me many of the same inspirational insights to success only after many failures. Henry Ford didn’t fall into success. Nor did Thomas Edison, Walt Disney or Milton Hershey. Poverty. Fires. Bankruptcy. Ridicule. The greats all faced it unless handed down the money and those individuals were usually a pale version of the visionary who suffered to create. I’m thankful to be alive with the opportunity to try to climb the mountains.
I’m ready to get back to work tomorrow and try to get the new projects on better ground. We have some amazing wins this year already but I’m trying to prepare to do that again next year. We are fighting to film more stories this year and do it proper. Let’s look at some film updates-
- The first Harsens Island Revenge trailer is almost done. I’m awaiting the final version so I can upload to CDI Films Youtube site and we can premiere it. It is really good and only a reflection of the powerful film but it will be a great teaser to get folks ready. I wanted to release it on my birthday (June 23rd) but we were waiting on new voice over. And I wanted to try and have it released by week’s end or even today/now but the full audio was being remixed with the new narration. We have artists who deeply care about the story and final product and it shows. I would not be surprised to see if come across my desk today sometime and if it does we’ll all have a glorious Monday kick off! Additional trailers and poster art will follow!
- This week I’ll also be sending the new HD trailer of KNIGHT CHILLS, CDI’s 1st feature film, to a few distributors. Adam Towner did a bang up edit job and it is such a joy to see the work from all those years ago being presented again. And with the popularity again of Dungeons and Dragons and fantasy role playing games I believe it will be a hit. The Blu Ray sales on the special edition were wonderful. Now we want to bring it right into people’s homes. Follow the film on Facebook for all the new updates including the new trailer!
- AN ORDINARY KILLER sales link for the special edition HD DVD is still being put together. The streaming deal on this dramatic and touching film will be signed this week. It will stream in December! Now that Adam Towner has finished the new Knight Chills trailer the AOK streaming trailer might be next on deck.
- Dean Teaster’s GHOST TOWN is now streaming and kudos to Brett Frame for his trailer for the new release. Go to TUBI to watch free with ads and it should start appearing some other platforms also.
- Work on “De-Noise” and Up-Rez on the other classic CDI films is underway. I want to get a sales site up for the double feature DVD’s of HEAVEN’S NEIGHBORS and FIGURE IN THE FOREST. FROM VENUS artwork is being worked on and I’ll be having more talks on that film also.
- FOR THE LOVE OF CATCH the documentary on Catch-Can wrestling and the world champion Frank Gotch is being developed as a feature film biopic. We are making some ground there with UFC champion Randy Couture attached to play the famous trainer Farmer Burns, ironically related to our production designer GW Burns. We are working hard to try and align the financing on this story.
- Also in development is ROM COMS MUST DIE, a parody on the state of art in this day and age. Also the much awaited and anticipated sequel to WILD FAITH is aligning its financial pieces. It is a Christmas adventure with many of your favorite characters. If all goes as planned we’ll film in November of this year.
WRAP UP: I’m sure there are a few more updates I’m missing. But with the weather so nice and cool I have a list of things I want to get down on the property. I’ve been harvesting berries, mint, sage, red clover and more. I was given as a gift a beautiful metal owl that blows in the wind. I think I’ll attach a picture of it on here. The chickens have been gifting us eggs and they’re still a joy to watch strut around looking for food.
(Bubo the Owl)
I think I have an interviewer for a book coming to the fort/office tomorrow to discuss a past project. So I’ll go do a bit of straightening up there also. As noted above, this has been a hard week for many people who knew the young man who passed away. Our time here is limited and so make the most of it. Chase dreams and help others. You unfortunately can’t help everyone but that is why I love our stories. They reach tens of millions of people and spread that positive good energy. I’ll wrap this up here but I’ll look forward to chatting again with you next week. It will be the 4th of July weekend ahead so please do be safe. Until next time we meet, coffee cheers!
DJ
(Wright Brother’s homestead – true dreamers)
Tuesday BLOG Catch Up from SUNDAY NC Trip!
(The man, the myth, Robert Bradley)
Hazelnut coffee cheers! I’m sipping the java and decided to give you a brief update. On Sunday instead of the blog I posted several videos from our trip to Maggie Valley, NC. It was to surprise our dear friend Robert Bradley on his 80th bday. I met Robert when we were in development on what is now known as “Dean Teaster’s Ghost Town” the Smoky Mountain western. We were reconnecting with the old gunfighters from the theme park and scouting locations. It is on this trip that I met Robert Bradley known widely across those mountains as ‘The Apache Kid’ by most. It is there that I met Raymond Fairchild, Little Rufus, Tick Rich, Popcorn Sutton, Harry Valentine, Herbert ‘Cowboy’ Cowards and more. All colorful unique characters to be sure. But Robert and I kicked it off right away. He was much akin to the 10 year old in me and he would have been one of those after school buddies to come over and build a fort or explore in the woods. Even after Ghost Town filmed and released he stayed with the CDI Tribe working in the art and transportation departments and often being the armorer when needed. With 80 being the new 60 we plan to have Robert riding along with the circus for a while. Dane Deford our head of transportation has been working close with Robert for the last several films even rooming together. He and I decided to to a surprise run and attend a surprise party they were having for Robert. We did surprise him! Below is the first link of Dane and I on the road to Maggie Valley.
TRAVEL TO Maggie valley
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1188767748797303
The next video link was Dane and I on Sunday morning driving the Maggie Valley strip and visiting the theme park entrance and monument. When we arrived there was a young man there with his motorcycle parked nearby. I thought maybe he was a groundskeeper and he looked very comfortable in the place. Come to find out he was a local from a few towns over who had gone to Ghost Town in the Sky as a boy. He said he comes there to find peace and collect his thoughts. This place left a strong impression on people. He told us of a movie they made and that he had just watched it and how much he and his friends loved it. He said the town was captured perfectly. The new owner had taken him up before and the town is in need of serious work. When he realized I was ‘Will Burnett’ from the movie he was tickled and was sure he was meant to come there that day and meet me. We took a few pictures and I tried to get a movie review but he was a touch overwhelmed I think. He has an ankle tether on and said we didn’t want his review. I said our films are for all people lawbreakers or not. We talked about how for some the heroes in a movie are as close to mentors that some get. It was a great experience. This next video is a mix of photos and footage from the lodge where we surprised Robert. A band led by Blake Anthony Ellege was rocking with several Blues Brothers classics mixed with old country. They had cloggers and a special presentation and it was truly a beautiful day.
WATCH HERE: https://www.facebook.com/reel/830934611796514
For those that want to see the new remastered Dean Teaster’s GHOST TOWN streaming free with ads click here🙂 https://tubitv.com/movies/616519/dean-teaster-s-ghost-town
I’ll keep an eye out for new platforms. We’re also signing a deal this week that will have AN ORDINARY KILLER streaming end of the year December 15th and also the Two Average Joes Media HD DVD Special Edition will be released. Proceeds benefit veterans and their family’s via The Red, White and Blue Project. I’ll have that link for you soon! Do not miss out on owning this one!
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA – A release to UP Faith & Family is coming soon in July. This powerful drama is going to be reaching even more audiences as we start to flow out into broadcast and more streaming. Thank you to the thousands who purchased DVD’s. This is one you want to have on your shelf. DVD’s on sale here for $10 BUY HERE: https://www.amazon.com/Silent-Night-Algona-Anthony-Hornus/dp/B0CL7DFYSK Also you can stream if that is how you want it.
Harsens Island Revenge – The music and sound design are underway in full. The trailer is getting closer to being released. The music is being composed and narration is being worked on. Also we’ll be on the look out for a new theatrical poster. I’ll be talking with our director Carl this week and getting the latest and greatest. The MAKING OF VIDEO: https://youtu.be/wvvof3U4Sss?si=Lr95A2kWpr41DNdE
KNIGHT CHILLS – I’ve been working on the new trailer and artwork for a fall streaming release. I hope to lock that up this week. The Blu Ray is an awesome special edition which all fans should own. I love the documentary film that they did. BUY KNIGHT CHILLS Blu Ray: https://vinegarsyndrome.com/products/knight-chills
IN THE WOODS 25th anniversary PRE ORDER NOW! https://www.terror-vision.com/store/in-the-woods-1999-blu-ray
DEVELOPMENT: We have two projects lining up that we plan to shoot this year. One is a comedy horror film called ROM COMES MUST DIE and the other is WILD FAITH CHRISTMAS a heart-warming side adventure in the Wild Faith world that takes place 5 years after the last adventure. We have roughly half the commits we need to make these two films and this week I’ll be talking to others. I’m excited to have these two projects coming together. We have already started some scouting and casting and we’ll be doing more as things come together.
WRAP UP: I’m going to wrap this up and finish unpacking. The heat is getting up there so if it is affecting your area be safe. I do have a soccer match Sunday in the heat. Sunday is my bday and I plan on being quite chill. The following Friday I’m excited to do a belated Bday trip to Greenfield Village in Detroit area. We went to the museum part inside a few months ago and it was so inspiring. I’m looking forward to the old village and seeing the craftsmen.
I’m also going to use the heat outside to keep me focused at the desk. I’ve got disbursements to get to this week and as noted above development and post-production work. I hope everyone had a great Sunday with their father’s or in memory of their father. I got together with my daddy on Friday before leaving town. I’m so appreciative to have him here to still guide and give his opinions on things. I love him very much.
Until Sunday when I’ll be back on my normal schedule, be good to one another.
DJ
Advanced Casting Notice and More CDI Updates!
(CDI’s John Mashni and I at a development meeting)
Coffee cheers my friends! Yesterday we had a nice family reunion before the rains came. I’ve been doing a spring harvest on herbs as I noted before. We also are part of a program whereas we get fresh and sometimes exotic veggies each week grown out at Michigan State University greenhouses. I had a week off from soccer and really missed the battle. I spent some time assembling some trellis planters that will live on the new deck once that is done. My hops harvest might take a hit with the new deck build but they are hardy and will return. I’ve also got an abundance of hops from previous years. My deck prep has also included some tree-trimming which had me on a ladder with a pole saw but happy to report no falls. As I’ve noted before, I LOVE my breaks to walk amongst nature and maintain and/or harvest breaking up my desk work. I’ve been grinding out the film development work in addition to restoration and re-release or older films and working on our present film. Where to start?
(An action sequence from Ghost Town)
Our Dean Teaster’s Ghost Town film is riding back into the market and is now on TUBI with more to follow. We are in talks to bring AN ORDINARY KILLER to streaming but the Two Average Joes Media‘s version of the HD DVD is about to release. I saw the 4k restoration and it looks beautiful. We are targeting December for a streaming release maybe with a special weekend screening of the film in the theater where it was filmed. (Owosso, Michigan) I want to cut a fresh new trailer from this film and we’ll do that soon.
Speaking on new releases and fresh trailers. KNIGHT CHILLS was released last October on Blu Ray by Saturn Core who did an awesome job. I’ve seen the new trailer now being polished up and it is really cool. I want to see if we can increase the resolution even more for a Fall streaming release. A new poster has also been in the works for the streaming release.
All the “CDI Classic Collection” is being worked on but we want to not just get it better but excellent. So FROM VENUS, HEAVEN’S NEIGHBORS and FIGURE IN THE FOREST are being worked on. The source cameras were not of the same quality as say AN ORDINARY KILLER and GHOST TOWN so that is proving to be more of a challenge.
The current film we are working on is Harsens Island Revenge. I got to see the edit of the trailer and it is exciting to say the least. The dialog clean up will be finished this week and music and sound design will become the new focus. A few pieces of music are already roughed out and it really brings it all to life. We will also see a theatrical poster and even a music video possibly. I hope to have the trailer release no later than June 23rd my birthday so we’ll see.
(Travis Hayward and Bart Ketner at a development meeting)
DEVELOPMENT – We don’t have all the pieces in play for our 70’s racing film HOT ROD LOVE so that is going back on the shelf. Instead we have two smaller scope films we are looking to do. The first will shoot in July/August time frame and is a parody comedy/horror feature called ROM COMS MUST DIE. It will be the first directed feature by Travis Hayward. Travis has been with CDI since traveling to Las Vegas to film the CDI associated WASTELAND film in the Valley of Fire. He has worked on several CDI films working his way up the ladder. We are scouting and will be doing a casting search centering in the mid-Michigan area. I’m going to give you all an advanced breakdown here and if you think you have the right fit send your pics, resume and reel link here. Yes. This is paid and has distribution as it is a http://www.cdiproductions.com film.
(WE NEED YOU:) CASTING NOW!)
ROM COMS MUST DIE-
(These are all actors playing actors in the film) * Comedic experience
WES and LACEY – A Barbie and Ken type- Highly groomed with trendy style, killer smile with a touch of fake.
NICK and SUGAR – Nick is a musical DJ with street style and swagger and Sugar is all attitude and personality with ‘Housewife of Atlanta’ appeal.
KIP – Mildly Feminine young man
AIMEE – Country girl type with a great smile and looks good in flannel or sporting a cowgirl hat
ADVANCED CASTING for NOVEMBER western-
BLACK little girl and boy 12 or under in age
NATIVE AMERICAN boy 12 or under in age
These are both supporting roles and experience is needed! PAID and this film does have distribution in advance. Likely, a week-long commitment to filming and virtual tutor will be involved. Again a http://www.cdiproductions.com film.
There you have it. An advance casting notice as we prepare to end the year strong with a couple of productions.
WRAP UP: Going back to the family reunion it was nice to chat with folks. Many I only see once a year during events like this. They often have questions on “what is next?” or “what am I working on?” What I love is how everyone has different favorite films. Pictures of my clean cut Col Lodell from SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA were looked at because my hair is getting long again. Some love WILD FAITH and several MAN’S BEST FRIEND. Once said his favorite was AN ORDINARY KILLER and yet another likes the scarier films like IN THE WOODS. The Colonel. Ben Lily. Paul Landings. Let. Lynn Kendall. Alex Kerwood. It is fun to just have people appreciate the different characters and roles. And now I’m creating a new character for this ROM COMS MUST DIE. People look forward to watching what you create so there is always a good pressure to create. The second film developing is a sequel so I know the character. Maybe that is a hint;) So while doing all this business of bringing on the biz backers, actors and the crew I will also be creating this new role to bring to the screen. It is always fun and this will be no different.
I’m also starting to look at props. I’m going to have art start to do a breakdown on the western so we can start looking for those hard to find items. I’m off to a flea market to see if I can find any treasures. Wish me luck! I’m looking forward to a great week of communicating and processing checks back to previous investors. We’ll see who wants to hop back on board for a couple great projects. Some are already onboard and so once we get that all finished the creative hard work begins. We are also making some strides on projects for next year but I don’t want to jinx anything by talking prematurely. Have a great week and we’ll talk next Sunday. I hope a few of you match the casting breakdown and reach out. That would be great to cast a few of you via my blog. Invites others to follow along. I’m also on insta-gram under officialdjperry so seek me out and follow me there also.
Be good to one another!
DJ
Memorial Day Weekend 2024 – TEN FILM UPDATES!
(Wounded vet Paul Landings tries to readjust to life working in an animal shelter)
Hazelnut coffee cheers! Above is a list of where some of our new readers are from. Please do invite folks and subscribe yourself. This has been a very productive week. Our soccer team dropped a match but I’m loving the work out and feel as if I’m playing good. I also got to end the week with shooting some primitive archery. Some people love guns and go to the range to blow off stress. The loud aspect and ringing ears even with protection makes shooting something for hunting or self protection but not fun. But slinging arrows is something I really enjoy. My main bow is a compact recurve made by Bear. It is a classic and shoots extremely well. It was a great time and I’m going to make that more of a regular activity. I have several others bows that I want to try out for fun.
(True story of WW2 home front soldiers watching over German PW’s)
Outside I’ve been doing lots of work keeping the mowing up. But also added a new arbor and chainsawed a lilac tree of some dead branches. I chipped up the medium sized branches and the large are cut to season for burning. I wonder if they smell good while they burn? On the full moon also did some harvesting of red clover, chive and sage blossoms for tea. Many herbs have great medicinal properties in addition to food flavoring. The hops is growing great and we’ll see how they do after the new porch build which is slated for July. It will create a much bigger deck area and create a nice under deck area as well. I need to start cleaning out the space under the deck and get it ready for the build. I have at least one tree that needs a trimming to get some branches off the house. A few tree trims might need an expert. The berries are getting ready to pop with raspberries looking like they will be a bumper crop. Today we’re having the mother’s over for a grill. Venison and buffalo burgers and chicken with mushrooms and wild onions. Okay, shall we get onto some film updates?
(Civil War veteran Emmett Murphy readjusts to life after the War of the States)
UPDATES
- I think last year I expressed my sadness at the passing of my book editor at Revel/Baker Lonnie. I had written a story that had accepted for our 4th collaboration this one on birds. The new editor Katelyn reached out and the book is moving forward. I’ll promote that when the book releases nationally.
- Staying with literary – It is time to buckle-down and get the first of the CDI books rolling out under our new publishing deal. Knight Chills and Ghost Town books will likely be the first ones up. I need to get on the artwork and create an action list.
- More literary – I’ve been doing a lot of screenwriting as of late and working on a few properties that were smaller in scope meaning fewer locations and characters. This means few company moves hence fewer shoot days and lower budget. Of the three scripts we have we might elect to shoot two of them versus the HOT ROD LOVE which has a larger cast from all over the USA. I will say that the 3rd film script that I’m closing in on is a sequel to a popular film of ours. It has been a joy to write for some of these characters in the world we previously created. My only hint is – giddy up.
- Our Dean Teaster’s GHOST TOWN has been signed with Ammo Content and can now be seen on TUBI at https://tubitv.com/movies/616519/dean-teaster-s-ghost-town (FREE with ads) and will be licensing to many other platforms. I’m also told we will be releasing in the UK so please let me know my friends if it starts to show up there. We’ll do some PR on that next week but you got the intel here first!
- The true-crime film AN ORDINARY KILLER starring myself, Terence Knox, Terry Jernigan and Dan Haggerty is now being used to help the non profit The Red, White and Blue Project thanks to a fundraising effort by Two Average Joes Media who runs a podcast on true crime. They’ve remastered the film and a special HD DVD is going to be sold. Once the purchase site is up we’ll share that. We are looking to put it into the streaming market just before Christmas. I want to cut a new trailer but we’ve remastered the old one for the time being. That will be releasing soon.
- KNIGHT CHILLS which is enjoying a remastered Blu Ray release with Saturn Core/Vinegar Syndrome will be entering the streaming market this Fall. CDI’s own Adam Towner has been working on a new poster and trailer. We’ve had several meetings and I hope to see some updates this weekend.
- I got a sneak peek at some Tom Miller artwork for FROM VENUS. He did the cool artwork for KNIGHT CHILLS used in the Blu Ray release. It is looking great! We have to discuss how we want to deal with the duel format of the film – outside the comic book is letter box and inside the comic book is full screen. Unique in concept but now we have to decide what to do in the remastering. Maybe a matte of the comic book old old school TV matte.
- Remastering tests continue on FIGURE IN THE FOREST and HEAVEN’S NEIGHBORS. I do want to get the double DVD featuring the two films for sale. Both are great films directed by CDI’s own Jeff Kennedy.
- I got to see the first cut of the music video we just did with SHALLOW RISING and it looks great. The previous video is suppose to release this month and when it is we’ll promote it on here.
- I had a great meeting with my friends at McGraw Multimedia where we are discussing some exciting collaborations. We also had a great meeting discussing pulling together various artistic companies in the Lansing area. If it all gels it could be BIG for Lansing. Stage, screen and video games all under one roof. I’m in talks with them for future supervision of production which I’ve discussed with various companies out west but I had/have no interest in leaving our state. This facility would be exactly 7 minutes from my house which makes it ideal.
(WW1 veterans deal with the Purple Gang of Detroit in the roaring 20’s)
I feel as if I have a few additional updates but I’m going to wrap it up here. I have some breakfast to get after and I have to get the grill ready. I’m looking forward to a day of friends and family. I love catching up on some of the TO DO’s around the property. This forthcoming week I’ll finish the script I’m working on and we’ll have some developmental talks. I will say that we’re discussing a return to the Alpena area to work with some of the fine folks we’ve already met and worked with on Harsens Island Revenge. SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA is preparing for it’s TV debut on UP FAMILY & FAITH channel and I’m anxious to hear if the film did some licensing in Cannes, France. Harsens Island Revenge is having sound design, dialog and musical score all worked on. We overcame the few tech issues we were having with software. The reports coming in on dialog are wonderful and I’m told will be some of the best yet. That is technology for you both in source capture and clean up. A long ways from our small DAT players. The trailer and theatrical poster are being worked on and I hope to have a first draft by end of the month. My goal would be to release a trailer on my June 23rd Bday. We will see if the team can make that happen.
(Making plans for 2024/2025 and behind with John Mashni)
I might have a Knight Chills trailer by that time also. Our 1st film and our most recent film side by side. That is growth. We’ve learned so much from set back and success. We’re excited to move into new territory. We’ve been planning some big things for 2025 production-wise. I had a great meeting with John Mashni, one of our producers and our legal consultant. We were preparing breakdowns to release $ back to investors on the current films. Additionally we’re discussing the future which has some very promising opportunities. Many more stories to tell my friends. Do me a favor and enjoy your favorite CDI film(s) with some family and friends this week. Recommend one of your favorites to someone new. I’m also told next Friday we might get some exciting news finally on IN THE WOODS, my first starring film returning as a remasters Blu Ray and even to select theaters. I’m just so grateful that I’m allowed to do what I love and that so many people are touched by the stories. Thank you for all the little notes and fan mail, it is appreciated. Have a safe and fun Memorial Day and remember those who served and died to protect our freedom and liberties. Enjoy a few of our film clips in this promo for ENCOURAGE TV– https://youtu.be/HKVI4ONZ4Dk?si=p3u50jdleuSG60HU
Until next week! Coffee Cheers!
DJ
A DOZEN UPDATES JUST FOR YOU!
(Springtime is arriving!)
My coffee cheers on a sunny yet still a tad chilly Sunday! I want to again welcome all of you here to sit a spell and discuss life, art and everything in between. It has been a very full week but one that I found to be very productive. I welcome some of our new readers from Germany, Canada and Iraq. The last being a great land of art and traditions. Every land has its storytellers. If you are one of them preserving stories and helping humanity to think of the greater good and our interlinking web of life, kudos. Mother Nature was at it this past week with storms and even an earthquake on the US East Coast. I feel for the Asian quake that caused immense damage and recovery efforts are still ongoing. We have to try and live in harmony with nature because that is the only way. I recall an old saying “He who goes against the way meets an early end.” That is why in all business we should factor in the safety of our air, water and food supply as it extends and effects us all. Transitioning into new energy will take time and not be perfect but the striving must continue. I live in a place cold for a good part of the year and I don’t want an electric car that will have issues charging and keeping a charge but that doesn’t mean to stop pushing. I think once energy is easily made and utilized at low/no cost to customers it will free up money to be spent and gathered in other ways by companies. Imagine if cars just ran and gas was not required because the cars were powered by the magnetic field around the earth. Houses had multiple year generators that ran everything. Roads that gather kinetic energy are in the works. I am curious to see where technology takes us in the coming decades. We’ve talked about AI on here and I think for another 10 years it will be a great tool for the arts. After that will it replace many spheres are art? I don’t know. People already enjoy animation since Walt Disney and others starting animating pictures. Billions have falling in love with characters created around human performance voices. The day may come where it is all created and we’ll just have to bravely see what that world is. In the meantime, we’ll continue to tell our stories. Let’s look and discuss some of those updates.
(Producing up some updates at CDI)
UPDATES-
- The audience for SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA is going strong and soon it will be releasing to UP FAMILY & FAITH TV in a month or two. We’re setting up a few interviews and stories to help widen the awareness of this powerful film. I was happy to hear that Randy Couture (Former UFC Champ) whom was involved with our doc film FOR THE LOVE OF CATCH really enjoyed it. He too was unaware that we had German PW’s here in the midwest during WW2. If you haven’t seen SNIA or the doc for that matter please do so. Just google either of them up and take a watch.
- Harsens Island Revenge is now in post-production and we’re about to watch the 2nd edit of the film. It will have the new pick up footage inserted and have the film tightened down around the voice over. We are close to a picture lock which is what we do before starting music, VFX and sound design. The VFX meeting happened last week and there is 61 VFX shots to be included in the film. We are all excited to see this project move to the next step.
- The Making of Harsens Island Revenge– This first peek into what went into the making of the project and some first seen footage is done. The CDI logo is being put on the front and the plan is to release that tomorrow. This was done by Adam Towner who worked as cast and crew on the film and he captures the joy of filmmaking. Stay TUNED! Next up will be work on a theatrical poster and a trailer.
- KNIGHT CHILLS was CDI’s first film and was released last Oct on Blu Ray and soon we’ll be licensing it out to several select platforms for streaming. A new trailer is going to be cut and a new poster is in the works. It is fun to return to where it all began. We might take the newly remastered film and see how it does when uprezed to a full 4k.
- AN ORDINARY KILLER was a superb movie when we shot it in like 2001 and released in I believe in 2003. We just passed the 20 year anniversary of the release and the film. At its peek it played on ABC and was the longest cold case file solved after 28 years, solved by DNA. The case has new interest with new facts coming to light. It was recently featured on a UK TV show with writer and co-director Anthony Hornus interviewed. And even more recently the film’s subject matter is the topic of several podcasts by Two Average Joes. A special presentation of the making of will be released with the podcast this week and we’ll be sure to alert you. The film’s lead detective played by yours truly is an ex Vietnam veteran. That also plays into the story and this led to a great idea for the film. A great military non-profit The Red, White and Blue Project has helped many military families with projects like OUTSIDE THE WIRE, The Forgotten Children of Afghanistan and STANDING POST. Now AN ORDINARY KILLER is going to be part of a series of donation driven screenings. This will give a second life to the film to be seen once again and also help many good military folks in need. The investor who has since passed away, will have his son be the spokesperson to gift the non-profit donations to the causes and individuals chosen. It is a beautiful way to give a second life to an old CDI film that has just been sitting on the shelf so to speak. I will say that the film has undergone an uprez to HD 4k and looks just incredible. It looks like it could have been shot last week and the performances and product values show that CDI has been doing quality work for sometime.
- HOT ROD LOVE – This fun and meaningful story showcases a time in the 70’s when women were thought to be unable to handle/drive drag racing cars. This was proven to be inaccurate and our story showcases that period of time. We had new steps this past week on securing our funding and might be able to finish it up in a couple of weeks with a little hardworking. Pepsi is again onboard as a sponsor and we’ve got some great retro and tie in marketing planned. I’m looking forward to a location scout late this month or early next month.
- WILD FAITH Hastings, GOTCH, SPIRIT LAKE MASSACRE are all in development with moving pieces. Also a new untitled project is being packaged for submission to an interested funding source and if we get the green light on that I’ll be very happy. It is a great acting piece for all involved! We have some amazing stories ahead for our fans worldwide. For those developing projects you MUST do something everyday to advance your development. Many sit by the phone waiting for someone to ring with their interest. While that does happen on occasion it is usually off the success of something prior. Artwork. Proof of Concept. Great script. Network. It all is required and some quit when success is right around the corner.
- LITERARY CDI projects are also about to launch. Several bound scripts and making of’s and also novelizations. I had a good meeting over that on Friday and we’ll be launch into some of those soon. Once I’ve inked that deal we will give you a better idea of what projects. What scripts would you like packaged with other production info? The Quest Trilogy book will be one of them I can assure you.
- CDI MUSIC VIDEOS/Commercial – we’ve done a few and have another due out this month. I will await for the band management to announce and release. But once it’s done we’ll be sure you all get to see it. We have two more music videos planned ahead of us and a couple of pilot shows for a different endeavor.
- I’ve got the next book in Ronnie Lee’s book/audio book series FOR GENERATIONS TO COME (Google it up) to narrate this month. If it wasn’t for all the heavy construction in the nearby park I might have already finished it.
- I’ve got my new acting agent looking over some photos that GW Burns snapped off on our recent pick up shoot. Once they pick their choice ones that put my face up there for you to consider me so I can consider you and if we all consider it a good fit- we might collaborate on something.
- This week I’ve got some meetings, banking, birthday parties, studio previews, dentist and a short trip out-of-state. The trip is to support my amigo Shane Hagedorn as his plus one at a charity screening of his new western WAS ONCE A HERO. I will get to see some old friends Darby Hinton, Rebecca Holden and some past acquaintances like Dan Searles, John Carter Cash and Robert Carradine. This week is also the kick off party for the CCFF in my town. It is at the RE Olds Museum and I want to attend but it is the night before we depart out of state. I might take the time instead to pack and spend time at home before an early start the next day. I might try to do a short visit to give my support. They do a great job so if you like movies look to attend!
(I look forward to soon being able to work from the patio)
I’ve had my eggs and ham from our chickens and 4H pig. Yes we’re part time farmers over here. Okay not really but we do try to stay away from processed foods and stay natural. I was building a trellis for the raspberry plants yesterday but it was still a tad chilly. I might go do a few things outside today but I’ll still need to build a fire in the wood stove. I’m sure I missed a few updates as my weeks stay crazy busy but that is enough for you to chew on. I am enjoying seeing the trees start to bud and colorful flowers bursting forth. Almost mushroom season too. I went with a buddy to a farm market and bought some mushroom jerky which I still have yet to try. I hope you all have a safe week. Don’t look right at the eclipse. Organize your dream TO DO’s and give your best efforts this week. I might be doing a video update next week from the premiere event or on the nine hour trip home. I will arrive home just in time to attend a family gathering next Sunday. So I have again a very full week but I’m sure it will open many new doors. Thank you all for stopping by (Coffee Cheers) I’ll stop in next week to say hello and give you any new updates.
Be good to one another!
DJ
A Look Back at Past Birthdays and Movie Updates!
(DJ Year one)
Good morning! I’m officially another year older and I have to say it was a nice transition. June 23rd is my actual birthday and I often get to pondering at this time. I remember most of my childhood and college bday celebrations. One of my best friends from the neighborhood had a June 18th bday so we often had parties together. I could write an entire book on the adventures of our upbringing and just might one day. We had a wooded area that provided all kinds of fun activities from tree fort building to BB gun wars and capture the flag. We had a large enough group to play some great backyard sports. Dungeons and Dragons was a favorite from about 3rd grade onward. It is fun to see some of these things making such a come back into todays culture.
(Bday in the 70’s)
I did have a soccer match on Thursday that was likely my best of the season. I really wanted to win going into my Friday bday. It was hard fought and we did emerge victorious. You are always a little more sore when you lose. I’m appreciative that I’m still able to run and compete in the game I love. Friday was a good day starting with my brother and nephew visiting. I got a cool Conan the Barbarian tee-shirt and the chickens got some good attention from my nephew who also just had a bday. We ended with a dinner with the moms where I got one of my favorites, an olive burger. I also got to see one of my high school buddies in town and enjoyed a visit over one of my new beers. I’m happy to say from all my testers that it came out great. My high school buddy’s quote was “I normally don’t like beer but this is really good.” This is the Diego Jose’s Mexican Style Chili Beer and I’m happy to report the Rockin’ Rhubarb Wine is bubbling and fermenting like crazy. In a few months it will be ready and so when Fall comes we can enjoy Springtime in a bottle.
(More 70’s Bday)
Saturday was beautiful and I was enjoying the day both in the yard and running around seeking a few Estate Sale treasures. After we had a nice dinner with my dad and his wife where I got prime rib. It was such a big cut and I’m use to more modest portions so now we have leftovers for some steak and eggs. Speaking of eggs the chickens have been going crazy eating up all the mulberries on the ground. Yes, the berries are in full force and I probably eat about 20 or so a day right off the trees. The raspberries and rhubarb are ripening and I will pick and freeze some for the next batch of wine. We had the heat and humidity finally arrive yesterday and so now the air conditioner is kicking. I don’t mind heat as much as I really dislike humidity. Arizona or Las Vegas type heat suits me better versus Florida or Atlanta heat. The most humid place I’ve been was likely Costa Rica rain forest where you learn to live damp.
(More 70’s Birthdays)
I got a new magnetic iPhone car holder and charger since June 30th they have a law in Michigan of no hands on the phone. I use to hold it with the pop top while Siri helped GPS me drive to my destinations. Overall I think it is a law that will save many lives. I see daily distracted drivers and worry especially for motorcycle drivers. A few other little love gifts completed the bday weekend. I even got a nice bottle of rye whiskey from my high school buddy. Gifts to share are always good ones. I will see a few other friends and my brother later tonight and tomorrow I’m ready to attack my TO DO’s a year older.
(Rocking the ‘Star Wars’ Tee -shirt so likely 1977/78)
Let’s take a look at some of the things ahead-
- We have to review the new schedule draft for Harsens Island Revenge and look to lock it this week. We had a great meeting Weds with our director and 1st AD with the producers sounding in. Once we lock the script we can move to securing several other aspects of production.
- As we finalize some final fixes on SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA home video delivery, we hope to get final release dates soon. I know they are starting to work on home video poster/DVD art. Many are awaiting the streaming and DVD home video release and it will be exciting to meet that need. We will be bringing this story to millions.
- I’m going to start organizing things this week for dispersement to our backers of the various films. It is a task with so many films and a lot of check writing but I do enjoy it. Many of the films are really picking up and being viewed by millions worldwide.
- We have been working to restore and upgrade CDI classics and also working on some tie-in’s like Making of books. It is important to remember where you came from and it is fun to see how humbly we started. We have lots of fun extras from over the years and if I can get that all pulled into a few coffee table books that will be a great keepsake.
- Video game spin offs are also part of what we’re pulling together and once the ink is dry I will have more to discuss on this new emerging market. This is all part of the merchandise push I want to see continue. Only so many hours in a day.
- DEVELOPMENT is always underway and we’re making some strong headway in laying the foundation on many new endeavors. We are already working hard to see what will follow Harsens Island Revenge. We have several possibles but it is still too early to predict what will be the follow up film or TV series.
- Speaking on development – a meeting last week might have us doing the next music video. I really do like the medium and so I’m excited about the possibilities. More as this becomes more solid but I’ve heard the demo track and it ROCKS.
- Sponsorship and Product Partners – we’ve had many great brands associated with our films over the years. We have some great ones lining up for our next film. If you have a company and want your service or products highlighted via sponsorship please do reach out. I’m trying to feature some Michigan based companies and even better if they were around in the 1920’s.
(Shogan Warrior Bday gift)
WRAP UP: I’m going to wrap this up here soon and get on with my Sunday tinkering and getting ready for a productive week ahead. For me that is printing out certain documents to reviews and organize my TO DO’s. I want to once again thank each and every person who reached out to wish me a happy birthday. I appreciate you all and the journeys we’ve taken either in life or as fellow artists in our wonderful storytelling endeavors or as fans who invited us into their homes and let us entertain you. Thank you. Thank you. How far I’ve come off just a dream is amazing to me. I hope health and longevity will allow tribeCDI and I to keep bringing you stories for many years. Because one day we will all ride off into the sunset and the stories will be all that remains. Even now much of the music and movies I enjoy feature folks no longer with us. No longer dealing with life’s hardships. My hope for this next trip around the sun is more love, understanding, unity and acceptance. When you live with hate you ruin your own happiness. You deserve happiness and you will receive what you put out into the world. I hope you all enjoy the balance of your Sunday and start the week productive. I look forward to us meeting here again next week. Until –
Coffee Cheers!
DJ
‘Silent Night In Algona’ Release Talks and More…
Good morning. I’m sipping my hazelnut coffee and enjoying this brisk morning. A welcome change from the 90 degree days we’ve had lately. My soccer game on Thursday resulted in a loss but the battle was good in the scorching heat. I’m worried that I might not have drank enough water. It was 92 degrees and I have to say I play much better in the cool Fall from my school days. My whole system felt off for two days after the game. Add day two soreness to the equation and poor sleep one night and I had a rough go Friday night. Usually I sleep very soundly and I’m a person who must get at least 5 hours to perform properly but usually get about 8 solid hours. Saturday was as close to a sick day I’ve had in a long time. But most of it was the sleep deprived from the night before. So I’m going to ramp up my water intake for sure. I slept good last night and things seem almost back to normal. But rest and hydration is a much needed element to being productive on the highest level. I use to be a night owl but now I’m a 11-7 sleeper and I enjoy the early rise. We have roosters in our neighborhood that helps with this early wake.
The property has gone full blown with everything growing and blossoming. I’ve started a batch of Mexican-style beer which I’ll be bottling this week. I’ve been harvesting rhubarb and almost have enough to do a batch of wine. I’ve been doing a run of beer and wine each year and it makes for a fun sip at meetings. The hops are growing like crazy and we’ve got several plants gifting us herbs and soon veggies will follow. I love tending to all this while still carrying on my creative duties. I’ve been cutting freshly cut logs to dry and splitting older logs to fill the bins for the coming Fall/Winter. The wood stove is getting a rest from its duties of heating the office. All of this is a good connection to nature and trust me that throwing the axe and hammer around is a hell of a work out.
June is now upon us and that is my birthday month (June 23rd) and I’m not sure if I will do anything special. I am often fine with just a nice meal and the company of family. I can’t believe how the years have gone by. But I feel very blessed to be able to do what I so love- storytelling. Shall we look at a few film updates? Okay we shall.
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA- The film and elements have been delivered and are being checked by our distributor. We are still in that process so we don’t have solid home video release dates yet but the talks are going on now. It was proposed to release the DVD and transaction digital around Labor Day (Sept) with subscription video on demand and ad based video on demand around Thanksgiving. We are approved to return to the Fridley theatre in Algona for a FOUNDERS DAY run. So if you did not see it in the theatre, here will be your opportunity or if you want to see it again. The home video version has added sound design and visual effects and so that will also be a great new way to enjoy the film. We’ve had many people want to purchase a keepsake DVD and share this film with family across the country for the Christmas season. People will surely have that opportunity. I’m thinking that the museums in Algona might start carrying the DVD’s also. The current theatrical is just ending but with another showing run in July I guess it is not done. In theaters from Dec 9th to July is a pretty good run.
HARSENS ISLAND REVENGE is heating up with the official production script now formatted and we’re awaiting the schedule for producer approval. This will also give us the day-of-days which tells us what actors, boats, cars and such are needed on what day. This will allow us to move to the agreement phase with talent. I’m going to be putting our VFX deal together this week with McGraw Multimedia. I’m looking forward to working with old friends Eldon and John McGraw on bringing a handful of VFX scenes to life on screen. This will include a cool WW1 scene, two boat scenes and a plane sequence. I’m excited to bring this story to life. We’ve been working on the hard parts of the production which is lodging and catering. I’ve also been in talks with several companies about sponsorship aligning their brand with this film. In Sept/Oct we’ll capture this story and have the Fall/Winter to put it all together.
MISC. DEVELOPMENT
As noted in previous blog entries I’m working to bring some of the older films into the new age. This will include HD enhancement on some. Others will have extras such as ‘Making of’ books and merchandise. And in a few situations it could include a sequel or reboot. We’ve also got some serious development underway on a new Iowa-based film and the WILD FAITH tv series HASTINGS. It is a balance of past, present and future endeavors. I don’t feel like going too far in depth right now on development but we do have many fun projects underway.
ACTING – In part because of the new acting role in ‘Harsens Island Revenge’ and part because of soccer season and the heat, I gave myself a haircut. About 8 cuts of the shears and I’m now sitting much cooler with shorter hair. It was about to the middle of my back. It grows like a weed. This next role in a hardened and experienced ex-officer from WW1. I was watching a doc show of actual life at the front lines in the trenches during WW1 and it was an eye opener.
I found myself thinking about an opportunity to work with an agent again and I’m conflicted. When I was actively seeking roles I had a high booking rate. But taking outside roles does take away from my development of CDI projects. But it is nice to sometimes just go an act versus running a circus. I’m not against considering roles but it has to be something special. At this point in my career I’ve played a lot of roles. I demand a lot from a story/script. Many regional castings are poorly presented and if unpaid have to be a pass. I’m not against those doing unpaid films as it will allow some new talent a chance to showcase on passion alone. I’m just at a place where I cannot sacrifice my routine of doing for free. Also I need to read an entire script. I turned down one project this year because free and fun are just not enough as I mentioned above. Another turned down my inquiry because they were eyeing another name talent. But I do have a great role ahead of me and I’m excited to become this man. I believe in the overall rule that I will do the projects I was meant to do. I know that I still love it though. I could not just produce without the acting. I could write without either of them for someone else but I would still miss acting and producing. Again, I will do what I’m meant to do. The thing about working for others just acting is when the character becomes lost because a story is never finished. I have 5 films I’ve acted in that never finished and four of them were features. I was paid for my time and it took me to places like Miami and Las Vegas but the hard work has never been seen. This always makes me think hard when taking on an outside project. All actors have these stories.
WRAP UP-
My growling stomach is telling me it is time to feed. I see eggs and bacon in my future. Today might include getting some veggie plants and flowers. I’m going to stay better hydrated and get ready for a great week ahead. I hope you all have a great week also. Brick by brick – build towards your goals.
Coffee Cheers!
DJ
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA Teaser Trailer Releases and MUCH more…
I want to welcome our gathering of new readers joining us from around the world. I give you all a big hazelnut coffee cheers. Thank you all for taking the time to join us.
Yesterday was the first absolutely beautiful day in Michigan. With temps reaching almost 80 degrees with flowers blooming, birds building nests and much-needed sunshine warming everything. I spent a good part of the morning with Luna, our new dog, unpacking our patio set. The deck now has the table, umbrella and chairs all set up. It is one of my favorite places to work on scripts and do business. But yesterday it was working in the yard all morning until getting cleaned up for a family bday dinner at a local Italian restaurant. After that it was back to all hang on the patio. Luna has been fascinated? obsessed? with you guessed it, squirrels. Yesterday as we all visited Luna decided to use a broken tree to try and escape the fenced in yard. She struggled with all her might and got her heavy load over the fence. She was quickly re-captured but I had to bust out the sledge hammer, axe and chainsaw – ending with securing the area with a higher heavy fence around the tree. She was a tired camper and while she was proud of her climb we hope it was a one time thing. I’m sure it was a first for her.
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA – Let’s get right into the news of the hour. I’ll actually let you read it all right here.
Teaser Trailer PR Link: https://www.prlog.org/12914549-collective-development-inc-gives-audiences-silent-night-in-algona-first-look-teaser-trailer.html
Other Updates-
Even before the PR hits next week I’ll fill you in on a few new updates
- The deal for the BluRay of KNIGHT CHILLS is done. For those not in the knowing, Knight Chills was CDI’s first movie shot on Beta back in the 90’s. It was a huge learning curve and the PG-13 thriller had Dungeons and Dragons like role playing at the heart of the story. Plans are for a streaming release and actively we have a video game in development. I’ve seen some of the test work and it is pretty amazing.
- I mentioned above that I’m excited to be sitting on the patio doing some writing. I’ve signed a deal to write my next adaptation of a book to screenplay and produce the film. Right now I’m ONLY concerned with writing a great script. It will likely film 2023 but pending it could be late 2022. I’m going to hold off on any details until the PR release but it is exciting to have a new writing project.
- FOR THE LOVE OF CATCH documentary is prepping deliverables and we’re still exploring where we want to premiere it. We are also looking at large premiere festivals so we’ll see. We are also discussing the next documentary film in our FOR THE LOVE OF CATCH series!
- In the next month of MAY 31st, we’ll be promoting the release of the CDI associated thriller BESTSELLER, which previously only had a DVD release. Deskpop Entertainment is releasing it worldwide and we are excited to see it launching.
- BEST YEARS GONE will be firing up its marketing campaign in the coming weeks with the film releasing JULY 5th! This film brought lots of laughter in the theatrical play and we’re excited to bring this fun romp to all of you.
- I hope you all had a chance this holiday season to watch THE QUEST TRILOGY, our unique take on these stories have been enjoyed by an ever-growing world audience. I met with Carl Weyant (The Christ Slayer) over a few new projects. We just finished a DEEPFALL music video that CDI produced and that he directed, shot (with Travis Hayward) and edited. Here is the music video link- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xtlc7GQvr70 – Carl and CDI have several projects in development including other music videos. Interested in a music video and have a budget, reach out to me.
- WILD FAITH and MAN’S BEST FRIEND look as though they might be heading to Peacock streaming. We’ve had major efforts underway to turn our highly popular Wild Faith into a TV series. When speaking about on-going stories I’ve had many people ask about the fate of ‘Paul Landings’ from MBF. Currently ‘Paul’ is serving time and will there be a second story, never say never, although there is no active development on that front.
- We’re about to make our push on HOT ROD LOVE, a female empowerment story in the world of drag racing in 1975. We’ve been preparing to approach our backers and sponsors. Prepare to start your engines!
- This past week we’ve been awaiting follow up materials from a few discussions on film collaborations. Many folks talk but don’t follow up properly mainly because they engaged in talks prematurely. But if things are delayed you should reach out to communicate that. One project was pitched and I was suppose to see materials last week, but they did not arrive. It reminds me of past film mixers of having your time dominated by someone who talks a good game but next presents any follow up materials. So they wasted my time talking about something not ready to roll. Casual conversation is fine but I’ve had an hour plus wasted in the past. So don’t go into things prematurely or unprepared.
- I do believe this coming week we’ll know the outcome of the BareBones International Film and Music Festival results. BEST YEARS GONE is up for ‘Best Comedy’ and there might be an opportunity for folks to watch a one time virtual showing. I will have to explore that more with our director Shane Hagedorn.
I hope you all have a wonderful week ahead. I’m excited to see how folks react to the first peek at SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA. We have another indoor soccer match this week after a close win last week. All of this is in preparation for our outdoor league. I plan to get more trees trimmed and other prep work that will give us a garden zen in a few short months. Cheers to more dreams, endeavors and doings. We had a few great wrap ups this week as we all worked very hard. We make it look easy at CDI but it’s really hard work. It looks easy because we’ve gotten more and more efficient with but it’s still hard work by lots of artists. We ask for people’s best and they give it. Thank you.
Be kind to one another! Coffee Cheers!
DJ
July Summer CDI Updates
This Sunday morning is a near perfect temp with a touch of cool and low humidity. I want to welcome our new readers/subscribers from Ireland, Turkey and more. I’m sipping some coffee and this morning will include some eggs from our ‘girls’ laying almost daily. I’ve had a relaxing weekend that started with Shepherds Pie at Pizannos a bday gift from my good friend Johnny D. Saturday had us run some fun errands including a stop at the Blue Gill for a wonderful Perch sandwich. Today will likely be a bit of grilling after the flea market. I’ve got venison steaks ready to go – steak and eggs? Maybe:) While I might take a relax physically my mind is always working. Last week we had many great moves on the chessboard. I’m so very happy about the way things are progressing and I’m excited for what lies ahead.
As for life lessons or insights that apply to our artistic endeavors- enthusiasm. A skill set is needed but how you apply that skill set is what really counts. I’ve encountered a lot of jaded artists in my journey and it doesn’t matter how qualified if they cause people to always walk on eggshells. It’s easier to give an opportunity for growth to someone who is enthusiastic and excited to participate. As we get closer to locking up cast and crew on the next CDI endeavor SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA – I’m thrilled by our team. We producers will work hard to give everyone a great experience in return for their hard work and skill set. It all shows on the screen when the final story is complete. Our scout trip for next month is set. I was organizing our lodging and transportation needs and also made several steps trying to open certain product placement deals. Our film gives several opportunities to highlight great products that were in use in the 1940’s and are still in use now. IF you have a product you would like to align with our WW2 Christmas film don’t be shy. I’ve started working my character in the film and I’m thrilled to play such a stabilizing role. I play the camp commander and while many characters have arcs that drastically change due to circumstances, my role is the steady backbone. My hair grows like a weed and even with my recent haircut it its again starting to look long. Trust me I’m appreciative that I have a full head of hair. I will be getting the Robert Conrad haircut soon and I’m enjoying hunting up a few good props. We will be announcing a few new actors this week. We’re working on filling a few new departments and soon we’ll be working vendors. Aside from the prepping for our next adventure lets look at some of the top updates from last week.
- I started the week with a belated bday hang with dad who was homebound with his ‘Sadie’ who had recently been fixed and was recovering.
- I had a great call with a literary management company over properties. I’ve had projects in the Hollywood development system which can be slow and if the execs in charge move on your project can also get swept. I’ve also had a script given the “Hollywood rewrite” and it was gutted of much that made it special. But it also paid a few years of option payments. I use to call these properties “sacrificial scripts” but I have seen good studio/indie hybrids that were very good. So I’m going to comb through the scripts and see what I don’t plan to produce and sign them over for sale. In the days gone by I would try to keep actor/producer attachments and that makes it too heavy. These properties will be free and clear and we’ll see if they sell. I’ve had a few script sales and it’s not an easy process but with some of the awards the writing has brought – maybe.
- Speaking of writing I did work on the SMOKE & MIRRORS feature script some. The short film is about done and we’ll be rolling that out soon. It is a humorous/spooky steampunk-type story. I’m excited to show folks and it will make a great extended feature film.
- I had a meeting for HASTINGS, the Wild Faith tv series planned for midweek but had to reschedule. But I did get a bit of feedback on the interest level of the parties evaluating the series. I’m smiling. Let’s leave it at that for now.
- Thursday was a good day of business calls and also had a great soccer match. My slight injury from game one has improved greatly and my strength and conditioning is now almost where I want it.
- BEST YEARS GONE sound design is about done and music is close behind. Our winners of the battle of the bands will be shooting a music video in the near future. I have to go in Friday and do some Voice Over work which will be a blast. The deal for the Sept 11th event is being passed back and forth but it is happening. We hope to release some PR end of the month once we put pen to paper. Also an Owosso, MI two showing theatrical premiere is in the works. The trailer has been getting great feedback and I cannot wait for people to experience the entire story.
- MANS BEST FRIEND fresh off our Crown Award win has been getting some additional attention. I want to thank all the fans again who take the time to reach out and tell me how the film has affected their lives. With all the unfortunate animal abuse and uncared for veteran stories in the news this film hits home for many.
- THE QUEST TRILOGY has its own share of fans. The biblical time period is a great world to weave a story within and I think at some point we will return to this genre. We do have a few great stories to tell it just is about time and funding. Do you have a favorite biblical era film we’ve done? Do you have one you think we should consider?
- BESTSELLER is coming to audiences via BMG general market and I’ll be having more conversations about other films in the CDI library being released. Ashes of Eden? Figure in the Forest? An Ordinary Killer? The Patchwork Girl of OZ? We will see…
- I’m about to start work soon on another audio book in a series that I’ve been narrating. You can take a listen to book 1 and if you are a Civil War or history buff you will really enjoy. https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Diary-and-Memories-of-a-Civil-War-Soldier-Part-1-Audiobook/B09237FGF8?ref=a_pd_The-Re_c13_moreAuthors_0&pf_rd_p=722bd3f0-0234-421b-a023-824edcd1a86b&pf_rd_r=1QFZM61E421TDVR7TGY5
So as you can see I’ve been just moving right along. This week ahead will consist of meetings, in studio Voice Over and more. Several big developments underway but until they blossom no need to go into it all. The doc ‘For the Love of Catch’ released the trailer where over 20k saw it in a few days. The feature length doc is in full edit mode and we hope to have a cut soon. The 2nd half of our soccer season starts this Thursday and I’m looking forward to that. To all my artistic friends keep planing seeds and nourishing ideas. The harvest awaits those who put in the work and so get out there and start creating. Again we thank all of you friends, families and fans who have helped us get this amazing stories out there. I’m going to wrap up here and in a short while it will be time to fire up the grill. Until we get together next week. Coffee cheers!
DJ
CDI Updates Galore and Tips on Managing Time and Energy
Good morning my friends. Coffee cheers. I want to welcome all our new readers from Brazil, Norway, Sweden, Russia, China and more. I love that this is a place where artists of the world can come together. I hope my words can inspire, inform and/or assist each of you on your own journey. It was a productive week with my mind grinding a bit on several things. Last weekend brought the news of several people who’s travels here have ceased. The week brought more news of pets, parents and friends who passed. That is the other side of social media and up to the moment news. It use to be a random encounter with an old friend or associate would reveal news from the past few years or months. But now we deal with news daily that can remind us that our time alive and living is finite. Our minds are trying to learn to compensate for this daily bombardment of unsavory news. I feel bad for people who cannot moderate that and self feed themselves more sadness than they can healthily handle.
I have pondered activists of various causes and I think that is a hard road. There is little rest – their minds fixated on the cause without rest. Politics, racial injustice, domestic violence, animal cruelty and poaching…the list could go on and on. If you try to take a rest -others could accuse them of slipping, losing focus leading to overall judgement. Good intentions can quickly turn to near madness. That person(s) can quickly become part of the problem contributing their own hate. This is like a passive mob mentality that while not as intense can be a slow peer pressure burn. “I don’t see you upset, do you still care?” – I’ve dealt with that years ago in some of the film business. My composure was taken for lack of caring and that was not true. I just know when emotions take over (Oh look how passionate someone is) that they don’t always make the best (efficient) choices. I often agree with causes but not the process of pushing an agenda. I’ve recently talked about how I like to speak with my art. I feel I can reach more people with the medium of film and don’t have to live in a manic state. Tell a story with a lesson and drop the mic and go boating or grill out with family and friends. Just because you don’t live in some unbalanced state of mind doesn’t mean you don’t care. It means you have learned to work smarter versus harder. Smarter for the health of the self and smarter for the cause you are trying to enlighten people to. So self evaluate and see if you are working in a way that is best for you and ultimately for your cause. Life is a marathon and so don’t burn yourself out. I’m also going to note my parents both had a birthday one day apart. I’m just blessed to still have them both here on this journey. My furry boy Luke who passed a few years back would have had a bday and several people had some nice things to say. Appreciate each day and try to lay your head on the pillow each night having done good deeds and a sleepless night will be rare. Except where dogs and fireworks exist a few less restful nights might follow.
FILM UPDATES
Let’s stay with MANS BEST FRIEND, which after the wins at the Crown Awards seems to have brought even more viewers. I want to thank all of you who have taken the time to watch the film and either send me your beautiful comments and/or posted reviews on IMDB, Amazon or whatever streaming platform. My cousins in Detroit finally got around to a watch on the film and sent me these pictures. I love them because it shows that our audience is not just you humans.
Thank you. If you want to watch yourself – please do.
WILD FAITH/HASTINGS has some exciting developments underway. In the sake of not getting ahead of myself I’ll leave this project for now. But this film which has endeared so many to the Murphy family just might launch in 2022.
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA
While ‘Wild Faith’ is storytelling in the 1870’s our upcoming WW2 drama will take us to the 1940’s. Our producers scout trip is booked and our team will go in August to lock in the infrastructure of our next film. Our casting and crewing is about 85% in place with a few departments ands castings still to be set and announced. Our German actors are going to start being announced soon. Here was last weeks cast announcement.
We also hope to start announcing some of the sponsors very soon. I’m just loving this entire era but the hardships endured are pretty amazing. I’m excited that one of my past co-stars will be joining us. Another opportunity to “Watch and learn!” – some of you know exactly who this amazing actor is. You can see all the cast and crew here and follow along as more are announced.
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt13608086/reference
BEST YEARS GONE released the first trailer and the reaction has been great. You can see it here:
We have two September premieres coming together. Sept 11 will be the race and outside premiere event and we’ll also be announcing an Owosso, MI premiere soon at the NCG. Plans for the music video shoot with Vertical Bridge are underway. The film has had the first pass on sound design and the music is almost there. I will be going in at the end of the month to add voice over. I’m excited for audiences to see this film and I think many will enjoy it. I’ve had several say it had a FARGO vibe to it. I’ll take that as a compliment.
LOST HEART/BIGFOOT, UFOS and JESUS – This film continues to march forward gathering audiences who love this story. It matters not if you watch the family/faith or general market release – just watch it. I love that both the A and B story are getting their own pushes in marketing.
OR
Same film that has all this within it. It was smart for the distributor to go at both these angles of marketing. Which marketing do you like better?
Speaking on trailers – how many of you saw the July 4th release of the trailer for our documentary ‘For the Love of Catch’ ? If you missed it here it is along with the PR. 20k+ views is just a few days tells us the audience is there.
https://www.prlog.org/12876107-for-the-love-of-catch-first-official-trailer-drops-to-fireworks.html
The steampunk, turn-of-the-century tale SMOKE & MIRRORS is also closing in on being complete. I’ve also been reworking the feature script for future production. BESTSELLER should be looking at a new fall release with BMG Global. We’re looking at several films to re-release with a new campaign. Which films would you like to see? FIGURE IN THE FOREST? KNIGHT CHILLS? AN ORDINARY KILLER? ASHES OF EDEN? With BMG opening a general market division it opens up possibilities for more films to release.
WRAP UP
OK. I’m going to wrap this up. We’re going to go visit one of the Sunday flea markets where I love to seek out curiosities and WW2 props. I’ve got a busy week ahead of meetings and such so I’m going to relax and get ready to attack the week. I’ve been having fun slowly rehearsing and building more character for the WW2 film. I’m currently reading a book written by the actual PW camp commander that my character is loosely based upon. I seem to be past my slight knee injury from soccer after a fun game Thursday. It feels good to be able to walk stairs without issue. That means might kicking drills on the new outside heavy bag can start in full. I’ve enjoyed doing my heavy bag punching outdoors. The mosquitos are making my punches even faster. I should be trying to catch them with chopsticks. I hope you all have a safe weekend and a productive week ahead.
DJ
Happy Father’s Day and Sunday Updates on CDI Film Projects
I’m sipping the coffee but in the early eve of the 19th. I have another busy day tomorrow with some family activities and such but I wanted to give you a few thoughts. I just read something about Chadwick the Black Panther actor not getting the part of Drax in a Guardians of the Galaxy film but it exposed him and opened the ‘Marvel’ doors for the future casting. We are getting down to the last few castings in SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA. This is hard because you are trying to build the right chemistry. We’ve had some requested reads that just didn’t make the grade. Sometimes it is nerves. Sometimes it is too much confidence, perhaps they don’t fully commit or make interesting, unique choices. I recall when we were casting WILD FAITH we were reading many actresses as Hester the half Native American tracker. Some good attempts but the mark kept being missed. Melissa Anschutz who is an amazing actress, could have played any of the roles because of her commitment level. She is the only one who found the bullseye. But convincing her to take a role where she says a dozen or so phrases was…interesting:) But the pay off was most excellent. You can get tired when casting but the focused work will show in the end product.
WILD FAITH (Free with Ads)
Almost 5 million viewers on Encourage TV. We are in a few conversations about the HASTINGS TV series. So if you have not watched the film please do. If you’ve enjoyed it before show your support for this film. If you would love a TV show based on this film let your voices be heard.
WICKED SPRING – We got some great practice at reproducing the Civil War era with our 2000 film. This was done when CDI has a sister company Lionheart Filmworks. The feature is now managed by CDI and Lionheart went to the films director Kevin Hershberger. I’ve been proud of all the TV work he has done. He LOVES history and it shows. Anyway, for streaming we now have an HD version of the film. The distributor did a high res version and from what I’ve seen it looks really good. It is just amazing what new technology is allowing us to do. This success could give new life to some of the pre-HD films.
Speaking of pre-HD much like last year when we released the CDI Classic Collection Double Feature #1 Heaven’s Neighbors and Figure in the Forest. This year my goal is to do Knight Chills and From Venus. Also I might explore a full HD campaign with Knight Chills. We have had two great companies approach about a special BluRay release and so I will be circling back to those discussions.
BESTSELLER is not from as far back as the classic collection but a few moons ago. It will be rolling out with a full campaign this fall.
NEXT week we have two of the films, MANS BEST FRIEND and LOST HEART, of 5 finalists in the Crown Awards in Dallas, Texas next week. They announce on my Bday (June 23rd) the Gold, Silver and Bronze winners. I love both films like children. I just hope whatever attention the films garnish pushes more audiences at these two powerful and heartfelt stories. This month also saw the beginning of the ‘Lost Heart’ roll out under the name ‘Bigfoot, UFOs and Jesus’ for the General Audience. I love the enthusiastic response that I received from so many of you. So it doesn’t matter what title you watch the film as – just enjoy it. Both of these films can be watched. Which is your favorite?
BEST YEARS GONE team has been putting the final touches on the first official trailer. The plan is to drop the trailer on Tuesday or perhaps Weds, perhaps. We are going to start having Travis Hayward start planning the music video once the trailer color correction is done. We are in the process of setting up a couple of premiere events for September. The films sound and music is roughly half done. I will be meeting with Dennis Therrian this week and get a better update.
FOR THE LOVE OF CATCH – This awesome doc film will be releasing its official teaser July 4th and I’m proud of all the hard work that has been going on with this project.
DEVELOPMENT
I’ve been doing some script work on a few projects that I’ve been meaning to get back to. Even just a little creative writing a day can be really refreshing. We discussed HASTINGS previously and there is some development happening with the post work on SMOKE & MIRRORS. I’ve been doing a lot of scene work on this feature script. We have several great things developing but they are not ready to be spoken about. Somethings are left best for when the deal is done.
WRAP UP –
Tomorrow is Father’s Day and I’m so thankful to still have both my parents here to love and guide me. I know my father worked very hard and that is where I must get some of that tenacity. I got to see my dad yesterday and I hope to see him tomorrow. If I don’t it is because he has a funeral for a classmate. Unfortunately, even at our age we are starting to see the occasional alumni obituary. This can only get harder as you travel down the path and lose more friends. It pains me to even think of that so I’m just appreciate them all. Even now I still owe a few calls. I do try to stay up and check on people. I look forward to a few nice sit downs and catch ups this week around my bday. For those asking I will likely pick a patio on Tuesday for a few hours in the afternoon/early eve and on Weds celebrate more chill with family.
Aside from this the chickens are producing eggs although we’ve had two Finn escapes whereas he chased the chickens. He seems to have shown restraint having caught two but not bit them. I’ve been harvesting some herbs and rhubarb and the berries also are ripening. So I need to bottle up the aging ‘berry’ wine into bottles and prepare to put another 5 gal in motion.
Rolling Into JUNE! CDI’s TOP 10 Updates from Last Week!
Morning has recently left us for afternoon and now after some reheated grilled chicken and salad I’m ready to blog with you all before I go give the yard a mow. When soccer season started about a month ago I overused my tendons outside me knees. It is the back and forth motion without having them conditioned for that strain. With weekly games it has been hard to get a full recovery but they are getting stronger. That Covid time off did not do me any favors.
We have had a few days of heat but luckily some storms have blown cooler air in on several days sparing us humidity. The raised garden beds now have the veggies and herbs planted. The chickens have been kicking out the eggs allowing almost daily egg breakfasts. I’ve had a great week of productive moves on the board. Maybe we should do a TOP 10 Updates on this fine Sunday.
- Our sponsorship program for SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA is being looked at by several major brands for alignment. If your brand feels like exploring marketing with our Christmas Homefront WW2 drama please reach out.
- Last week we had a great SNIA meeting with art department and looked at all the challenges that lie ahead. This week will be calls with Jesse Aragon our director of photography. We will look to start locking in our camera, grip and electric team in the coming weeks. Our first schedule is being looked at and soon we’ll pow wow over that and start to make moves. It is so interesting how it all starts to gel and come together.
- This week I’ll be seeing the polished draft of the teaser trailer on our doc FOR THE LOVE OF CATCH. It will release on July 4th and give audiences a glimpse at the amazing grapplers we have assembled to discuss their passion.
- Speaking of trailers, the official trailer for BEST YEARS GONE is in sound and music with Dennis Therrian and it will release soon. Rumor has it might be on the run up to June 23 someones bday;)
- The BEST YEARS GONE film itself is in serious music and sound design. We’ve started assembling the end credits. Color correction should be almost complete. We’re already looking at two premiere events in Sept. One a race and showing at the Springport Speedway Sept 11th and the Owosso, MI premiere date TBD.
- The General Market ‘Lost Heart’ release (BIGFOOT, UFOS and JESUS) is underway appearing on amazon and several other platforms. I love the new poster, trailer and movie as a whole. Released to the faith market ‘Lost Heart’ is up for ‘Best Film’ at the Crown Awards this month.
- Also one of the 5 ‘Best Films at the Crown Awards is MANS BEST FRIEND. A uniquely powerful film which feels like pineapple to a beet when you put the two films next to one another. Vastly different tone but proud to have both recognized.
- I want to give a congrats to VERTICAL BRIDGE who won the ‘Best Years Gone: Battle of the Bands’ and will have their song OFF TO THE RACES in the film. Additionally CDI will be shooting a commercial with the band with Travis Hayward directing, shooting the video. I’m excited for all the artists involved.
- We have some interested people looking at the WILD FAITH/HASTINGS TV series pitch this month. That would make a great bday present. If we get the green light we will be shooting next year.
- I’m starting to work into some creative script writing. I had a great call about the possibility of writing a screenplay for hire. We will see how that turns out. I have lotta possibilities and the things that are meant to be will come to be.
I’m going to wrap this up without a lot of chit chat because I have quite a bit of yard work to attend to before I have people arriving this eve. The berries and hops are getting closer to fruit. The catnip, rhubarb and several other things are already giving. We’ve been enjoying getting into the wines granted to us from previous harvests. I hope you all enjoy some time with family and friends. We had another out of town family get-together seeing some family we have not seen in over a year. Tomorrow I’ve got a big list of things to get through and I’m excited to get after it. I hope you all have a good weekend followed by a productive week.
Be good to one another.
DJ
New Nominations, Post-Updates and Prepping for a WW2 Story
Hazelnut coffee cheers! I see new readers/followers from Jamaica, Ireland and Ecuador, welcome. It is a beautiful day that started with having my niece and nephew over to visit ‘chicken land’ before we all went down to the local flea market. I did not find any treasures but that is how is goes, sometimes yes, sometimes no. But this weekend has been mainly yard work clean up. The lawn garden bags are by the curb for pick up and I also shored up the raspberries. The rhubarb is growing strong and the apple blossoms are full which might mean hard cider this fall. I’ve shared the brown ale with the few meetings we’ve had. To me it taste like NEWCASTLE. Just amazing what fruit, veggies and/or grains can become with a little fermentation magic.
This week went by quite fast with the main tasks being making moves on BEST YEARS GONE post work. SMOKE & MIRRORS post work is also finishing up. (Almost complete) And we’re entering post with the documentary ‘For the Love of Catch‘ which is exciting. Additionally, we’ve been busy with the pre-production tasks associated with our WW2 drama SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA. We’ll keep announcing new cast and crew over the next several weeks. Everyone is excited about storytelling in this time period. many of us have been immersing ourselves it the 1944 culture. I’ve enjoyed digging more into my grandfather’s WW2 service.
This week we’ll have talks with our art department over the script. They will break down props and we’ll address more major challenges. Period films are a great endeavor that requires artists to be at their best and research is a key. I’m going to do a new photoshoot soon showcasing the new look I’m moving towards. I have a great WW2 coat that was a find last year. Preparing for a role can be a bit like preparing for Halloween at least by way of look. More on this fine film as it develops.
Proud to announce that two of our films both qualified as one of the five finalist in the prestigious ICVM awards given on June 23rd (My bday) in Texas. MBF got much of its theatrical and festival run squashed by the Covid outbreak but it has been gathering momentum. The two films are both very different in tone but I feel like we won just by having two of the five films. Congrats to all the CDI artists involved and thank you to the audiences accepting these stories. We are all very appreciative and thank you to ICVM.
Final 5 Random Updates
- BEST YEARS GONE – battle of the Bands still ongoing on our FB page. We added the bio for Celebrity Judge Joe Pullin and we might have more to announce. We are loving all the submissions – thank you!
- BEST YEARS GONE auto stickers are available and soon we will have more. I think shirts and hats are next up!
- BEST YEARS GONE trailer is being worked on by Nathaniel Nose. We should have something in a few short weeks.
- https://www.tudosobreseufilme.com.br/2021/04/melissa-anschutz-7.html?m=1 a great interview with Melissa Anschutz on her career and ‘Lost Heart’ (You can look it up in English)
- FORTY NIGHTS which plays with CHASING THE STAR and THE CHRIST SLAYER on Encourage TV is also creeping towards its first million views. If you did not watch these three films, which should be watched in order, enjoy.
A great pic of Erika Hoveland and I filming on BEST YEARS GONE. Seen here in Dane Deford’s boat. As the cold gives way to warmth and Michigan is defrosting, I’m looking forward to gathering again. I’m happy to say I’ve had both doses of my super serum and feeling just dandy. I look forward to some cookouts and such in the near future. Enjoy the rest of your day and the week ahead. Every day has been full of emails, calls and meetings but all worth it as the projects keep moving down the line. We have some very exciting things developing at CDI and I know that steady ahead can get you there.
Keep channeling your energy into steady ahead and soon you’ll find things happening.
Be good to one another. Coffee Cheers!
DJ
The Virus of Hate and CDI Updates
Welcome to July! I’m sitting here sipping my hazelnut coffee and just finished watering the garden and yard. I’ve harvested some additional rhubarb and the berries are starting to pop. I’m going to make some ‘ROTHGA WINE’ short for “Return of the Hoppy Grape Ape” which was very popular. I’m also going to do a run of dark beer which I’ve never done. We’ve had several days of grilling and today we’re having a bday gathering at my father’s for several missed and upcoming bdays including his own. This week we’ll also celebrate my momma’s bday with a cook out. The outdoor goal for the week will be to put down some cedar mulch.
I’m a true optimist so I’m sincerely wishing we start a truck back to being a healthy state? nation? world? I’m a tad concerned because so many want to just ignore the situation and I get that. But for every person I talk with who thinks things are overblown I hear about another death due to the virus effecting some family. No they are not all elderly but even so how does that make it any better? But what makes it worse is the virus of hate. I’ve seen so much nasty attitude being thrown about which seems to be a combination of highly stressed people needing to vent off and tribal anger. The political system has weaponized nearly every platform of life. People plugged into 24/7 news are living in a “Breaking News” state of panic. People in SOP (State of Panic) are offended easily and over-reaction has become the norm. With the virus where people could be accountable for lives over-cautious can be a good thing. But over-reaction to partial, incomplete or the pushed message has created something greater than the virus it has created hate. When you start hearing people wishing people of another stance of thought dead, something is wrong. As I said before and I’ll say it again – in the process of condemning hate don’t join the ranks as one who also hates.
Again after getting a dose of the news (this includes social media) I would recommend putting some music on or escape into a nice movie. Put on the Steve Miller Band and write that book or script. Speaking of…
BEST YEARS GONE – Recently we announced more cast for our next CDI film. We have moved primary filming into that last window before Thanksgiving. We will be doing some VFX, B-Roll and beauty exteriors prior. We met recently with our DP Travis Hayward and I’m excited about some of the ideas we have. We have engaged in talks with various companies about sponsorship and have some great partners lining up. We’ll be making a few more cast/crew announcements as we get closer to rolling cameras.
LOST HEART – This film is just about complete. A few of the color corrected shots need a quick tweak and we’re wrapping up the last few things biz-wise. The credits have been gone over and gone over and it’s agonizing because with all the effort still some mistakes are made. When I see a studio film and all those names I cringe as that is a huge task. This will be a big week and as badly as I want to share some exciting news I’m going to wait until the ink is dry. Please do follow us on Facebook and of course the CDI website at http://www.cdiproductions.com
THE QUEST TRILOGY: FORTY NIGHTS, CHASING THE STAR, THE CHRIST SLAYER – In the often confusing world of biblical storytelling apparent by the multitude of denominations that all claim some sort of pedigree over the others – we distilled the parables to the heart of a teaching. We tried to fill in the gaps to have it make sense to those who require logical connection. A good story can enlighten us to new lessons, ideas and actions within our lives. These films don’t participate in the “our denomination is better than yours” mentality. These are stories that anyone can take something away from if they have never stepped foot in a church or cracked a bible. I listed to a bit of a mainstream podcast that for the most part made fun of the films. But he kept encouraging the other reviewer to watch it so they could make fun of it together. They watched them out of order and went into the watch with their cup full. That is a term we used in martial arts and refers to the zen idea of emptying your cup so you are open to learn and listen. Not to what the other person tells you is true but what you “discover” and “feel” to be true for you. Anyway I get the “rip it apart” mentality trying to be funny (I was 20 before) but these films have a good dose of “CIRCLE OF IRON” to them. That was a film of a spiritual journey written by the late, great Bruce Lee. If you are picking apart small things you are missing the story. Bruce said something about focusing on the finger instead of where it’s pointing to the moon. What is missed is all that heavenly glory. Something to that effect. If you like films that make you think you might enjoy these historic fiction films.
WILD FAITH – This week brings me back to the develop of the ‘Hastings’ TV series. Of our distributor’s films WILD FAITH was again the top viewed on several platforms. I’m speaking with possible TV networks to commit and have several more to explore. If you have not seen this film please do and see what everyone is talking about. The TV series will have many of your favorite TV stars from past years. This type of family programming is in demand and we hope to help fill that void.
MBF: MAN’S BEST FRIEND – This film continues to engage and create discussion with audiences. I’m so proud of this film and I hope we get to showcase it in LA this fall. I want to thank all our men and woman who proudly serve.
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA – A handful of years ago I worked with Rance Howard (Ron’s father) as my consultant on a powerful story about WW2 German POW’s in one of the many small mid-west prison camps. The project had many up’s and down’s that can happen when too many cooks are in the kitchen. I left the project and it stalled out but now several years later with our script, plans are being made to shoot this in 2021. MBF’s Anthony Hornus will direct. We have over half the budget officially committed as of last week and we’re putting together our presentational packages. I’m excited to see CDI tackle the WW2 era. We’ll be doing some upcoming PR on this but like always you get it first here.
THE HISTORY OF CATCH-CAN WRESTLING – As a lifelong student of the martial artists I’m fascinated by all the warrior arts. From ancient times to present day the art of wrestling has continued. Now CDI in association with The Red, White & Blue Project is helping to produce and distribute a documentary film with current world champion Curran Jacobs as the host. Some will remember him from MBF as the young defense attorney for Paul Landings. If you have any interest and want you or your company to support this doc-film please do reach out. I’m excited for this collaboration!
I’ve gotta refill the ole coffee cup and get something to eat. Keep working on your art, your dreams and be kind to your fellow humans. I hope July is a kind month to us all and I’ll look forward to speaking with you all next week.
DJ
Turning 50 and Exciting Film Updates
So I want to give a welcome to our artistic minded readers from around the globe. This past week was a good one with a few milestones. I think the most recognizable one is that I had a bday. I turned 50 years old. I find that kind of hard to believe as I feel as young as ever. The occasional knee or lower back issue will remind me once in a while I’ve got mileage. I had a great quiet day visiting with my dad in the morning and dinner on the patio with the moms. My surprise gift was a beautiful fountain that flows down in three falls. It is part of a new lawn area for relaxing and soaking up some nature. The patio is also a very serene place to do some work. The hops have grown up around it giving some wonderful shelter.
Speaking of hops I’m close to putting a run of beer and wine in motion. I’m also about to start picking some mulberries and I’ve been harvesting rhubarb. The garden strawberries are getting stolen perhaps by a lucky rabbit. We have some much wildlife about it is just a joy to watch them all each day. I know one of the other belated bday gifts and I don’t want to drop it here but it is for the entrance into the back yard. The stone path that that leads to the fort office. Speaking of office today I will be installing a high end air purifier. I’ve started taking some small in-person meetings at the office and so safe is a good thing. Let’s look at some film updates.
WILD FAITH continues to grow an audience and we’ll be having additional discussions on ‘Hastings‘ the TV shows. I will return to work on some of this now that my Movie Magic software is updated to my operating system.
THE QUEST TRILOGY (Forty Nights, Chasing the Star, The Christ Slayer) keeps widening the audience. In a few short months we’ll be hitting our prime window again. We are working to have a cool trilogy trailer.
MBF: Man’s Best Friend – Thank you to all our fans of this heartfelt movie. We are working to see if we can get a few more festival showings out of it also.
LOST HEART is almost complete. We are mixing the audio and doing the final paperwork on a few drop songs. Early feedback has been just wonderful. Soon audiences will get to make up their own mind on all that.
BEST YEARS GONE – A new version of the script is being reviewed. We spent a few weeks punching up some dialog and highlighting the ‘Racing’ theme in the film. I’m excited by some of the developing deals. Music. Rock & Roll. Drop the beat! It is going to be a fun film. We have pushed the film to our last window of 2020 to try and put some distance between us and the virus. Plus it is giving us time to put a few great things into play. It has been giving me ample time to put together my next personality I’m bringing to the screen.
DEVELOPMENT continues and the ink is nearly dry on two other CDI projects. Also we’ve reassigned three CDI associated films to a new distributor and we’ll be doing some PR on that as we head into the fall season. Overall just so many possible new avenues to explore and develop.
I’m going to end this here so I can likely give the lawn a mow and do some mulching. I also need to pick up and install the office purifiers. In our town of Lansing we are seeing how one viral hotspot can from from zero to eighty plus in just days. I see many gatherings and even shoots taking place with little or no precaution. I just hope that these outbreaks don’t send us backwards into a more restrictive situation. Masks are not political they are just a common denominator of health. Help knock this virus back by doing your part.
Stay safe out there and be kind to one another.
DJ
UPDATES: Pre-Production, Post Production and Everything In-Between
The hazelnut coffee is here beside me on another beautiful day in Michigan. Let me again start by thanking all the readers we have in our artists circle. Here are just a few from last week –
This past week I had some of my first in-person meetings over CDI merchandise which will be “COLLECTIVE COLLECTABLES” and over a new documentary film CDI is assisting in producing. Also this week I did some major yard upgrades which included power washing and staining the deck. I love to work out there on nice days and today we’re having the mothers over for a first cookout. The yard is all trimmed up and cut and I will be adding some privacy screening this coming week. Also we’ve entered my Bday month – the countdown to the 23rd. It will be a good month as many wonderful updates are unfolding. Let’s take a look.
LOST HEART – The music and sound design is almost done and we’ll be starting to mix. VFX and color correction should also be almost done. We’ve been slowed a touch by weeks of not being in the same room/studio. The film is just the right amount of funny comedy and inspirational drama. I think they want an early fall release which means we might do a theatrical or I hope…a drive in run! How fun would that be and it was a goal prior to all this virus stuff. Along with Roanoke’s music we’ll have some music contributions from a very famous musical family. More on that soon. Plus we might have a great uncredited cameo:) Just so much fun with this film.
BEST YEARS GONE – So much fun we are about to do it all again. We announced last week the addition of Victoria Jackson to the project making this the second time she has joined the CDI family. The film also has a layer of small town race car culture in it. Director Shane Hagedorn and I have been tweaking some dialog to reflect that. We once again have some really cool cars that will play into the film. I’ve started dealing with sponsors for the film and we’ll start announcing those also. We’re aiming to roll cameras in August and right now we are looking at clearing those dates. We’ll still be making some major forthcoming announcements on cast. This film will be a fun one for sure! Find our Facebook page and follow us along.
THE QUEST TRILOGY – The films are marching forward into new territories. South Korea looks to be next following Mexico, Brazil and Latin America. So audiences will continue to adventure with FORTY NIGHTS, CHASING THE STAR and THE CHRIST SLAYER. These films can be enjoyed by anyone and are surely to create discussion and dialog.
MAN’S BEST FRIEND – This beautiful film was recognized with nominations by the International Christian Film Festival for screenplay, filmmaking, most inspirational and I was nominated for an actor award for playing Paul. I did not watch the online awards so not sure if we won anything or not but it was an honor to be recognized. I hope we can attend at least one festival this year but we will have to see what opens up. Again if you have not seen this film please do. It has some powerful themes in it and will surely move you.
WILD FAITH – In a time of much strife I’ve been pleased to get so much positive response to this film with racial harmony at the heart of it. I’ve gotten some great fan mail from people around the country who are drinking in this film and the truth it lies out. Nothing is forced but it effectively illustrates that knowing and understanding go hand in hand. We are working to bring this world to audiences as a TV show. Just working on the financial part which is always the hardest. Take a watch and let me know if you see a TV show in there.
WRAP UP
This past week also included investor dispersement on certain films. Also putting a new batch of actor residuals in motion which most will see just in time for Christmas when the union sends them forward. We’re putting materials together on our 2021 WW2 drama and excited about that. I have a few new proposals to help produce other projects that will come with their own money. But even those need to be weighed out because they all take time.
I hope everyone out there stays safe as we re-open and start to interact once again. As you move out into the world do so with a new found appreciation of one another. Allow people to have different opinion and ideas. Try to communicate better and also learn to listen. A common middle ground is what most will need to find as the world moves forward. The attitude of all or nothing is not exactly reasonable as the world is not black and white but a great spectrum of colors that flows between. The GOLDEN RULE of do unto others as you would have them do unto you, would work well as a guiding principal.
Be good to one another.
DJ
DJ Perry's Official Blog 'Clawing My Way to the Middle' 