Updates from Yuma
It is a glorious sunny Saturday in Yuma, AZ. Last week our pre-production team on the upcoming feature film “40 Nights” flew in. Working with our Yuma based team we quickly got our departments underway. I’m so happy with how everyone has just been peacefully moving through their days doing what needs to get done. Morning meetings followed by work, work, work and post day meeting and meals. The people here have been so nice and we are getting huge support from the community. Once again I’m super proud to have the Collective Development Inc. name out there. Not only do we produce films in our home state but other states and countries.
Today secondary crew is starting to come in as we build towards the first day of principal photography. We had an amazing day of camera tests yesterday in the desert that yielding some amazing B Roll footage. I also got to see my character in full garb existing in the world we are creating. Budgetary reasons had us bringing in some keys and also using some west coast production folks. New family joins with the old family and as I said prior – making me proud.
Also the same goes for talent. Today Mr. Rance Howard came in with his wife. It has been a few years since I worked with Rance and it was a pleasure. We had a nice lunch and we’re running lines for a few before he has a wardrobe fitting.
I have many old friends coming in with the cast and I’m looking forward to meeting a few new artists. The last week flew by and I’m sure with me working every day these two weeks of shooting will also fly by. We will also have some exciting news in regards to distribution very soon. We had multiple parties interested in this film. I’m sure audiences will enjoy it. Also official .com website going up this weekend.
The new WICKED SPRING website is also up now. http://www.wickedspringfilm.com
ASHES OF EDEN and DONORS will be having more announcements as they move towards release.
BESTSELLER composing has begun and the 5.1 mix is complete. Color correction is 95% done and the FX have all been completed. May premiere!
Speaking of FX the work on WASTELAND our Sci-Fi is also completed and that film should finish up this month.
THE TERRORIST is completed and I’m hearing great stuff about that film and so I’m excited to see the final version.
I know I’m missing a few things but I have to get ready for my read so I will say goodbye for now.
Happy Saturday!
DJ
Spaceship is on the Launchpad & Select Updates
I know I should have a coffee sponsor out there for as much as I talk about it. Many know my love of hazelnut but I’ve also been adding cinnamon on the top for some time. It’s supposed to be good for digestion but also is just GOOD tasting. It has been a busy week of prepping for this role in Nevada playing a space pirate in what I can describe best as a Sci Fi western. WASTELAND Tales From the Desert Part 1. I’m looking forward to a return trip to Las Vegas which as far as cities go I do enjoy. I’m looking forward to seeing a few movie friends inside my hectic film schedule. I’m looking forward to trekking about the location of our filming which will be the Valley of Fire State Park. I’ve noted before that I’ve gone there as a child but I can’t really recall much. I know from what I’ve seen that the place will look great on camera.
I’ve been working on two scripts that are looking to shoot in 2015 – one is a long-awaited sequel to our original 1st CDI feature “Knight Chills”” and it’s fun and exciting to be creating here. We were very green when we did that 1st film and despite the great exposure here in the US/Canada and in several countries it was a major chore to complete. Now with all that we know and the better equipment for filmmakers this movie will be great and a smooth ride. It has a few appearances from original cast but will star two newcomers in the soon-to-be franchise. It will feature our famous villain and I look forward to having him on the big screen. A novel based on the 1st film script is in the works and will join a new re-release of that film to prep audiences for the sequel. Also we are looking at TV and other foreign sales for the old/new films. I’m excited by this and it will be fun.
I’ve also been working a powerful drama that has strong military and animal rights themes. It has been fun to bounce between these two scripts based on my mood for the day. I do enjoy writing and take great enjoyment in the process. I might have yet another script job after these two and again just a great pleasure to change gears from business and just swim in the imagination and create.
I’ve been working with graphic artists and distributors in getting new marketing materials around on “In the Woods,” “Donors,” “Ashes of Eden,” and “Wicked Spring” all coming out 1st half of 2015. On the re-releases it’s fun to go back into these great projects. On the new projects releasing – even more fun as you prepare the 1st looks for audiences out there. 2015 will be a busy year with releases and I will keep my promises to my foreign friends to get these films out there further so they can be enjoyed in your countries.
BESTSELLER – WOW! The FX work I’ve been seeing out of DNA Design has been wonderful. Soon we will be laying the FX plates into our time line along with the music beds being composed by Dennis Therrian. This film will be great to see all together. Those who have seen the early clips are raving about the suspense and intense nature of this film.
We have also been working development as noted by some of the script work. Additionally we have more than half the funds committed on another soon-to-be announced feature. Actually come Jan. we should be fully funded and we will make some announcements. It is a powerful script and role and we are working out our deal with distribution now. I plan to perhaps announce this film on or around Christmas.
Outside of all this I’ve been in talks with management on over a dozen projects where some TV series I’m looking at guest starring and some perhaps a regular role. We are targeting some of the casting on these studio films and at least one I’m already slated to be part of the cast. These are tens of millions of dollars and so they move at their own pace so I get to keep on doing my thing until they role into pre-production.
I got most of my Christmas shopping done and everything is wrapped and under the tree. I am not a “wait to the last minute” person – must be the producer in me. This weekend I will enjoy the family life here before I go do my movie thing for a week. I will come home to be thankful for the past year. Thankful for all of you who make this journey worthy. Thankful for family and friends who give love and support without care of what role I’m playing. I’m happy to be doing what that teenage boy was doing with his friends and camcorder so many years ago. It’s times like this that I just feel incredibly grateful.
I hope all of you have a wonderful weekend and productive week ahead preparing for the holidays. My next blog will come probably late on Saturday once I return home from Las Vegas.
Happy Holidays!
DJ
Closing the Year Strong & The Year Ahead
Good morning to all – likely afternoon when I post this. Yesterday was just a perfect Halloween day. I had lunch with my father and we had the mothers over for a Mexican theme Feast of the Dead. The rain/snow cold kept most of the trick or treater’s away. We ended the night watching a Halloween themed film and it really was perfect. I didn’t partake in all the craziness of years past and I was just fine with that. I had things I needed to get done today and business to attend to. As the midnight hour came I ended it all by finishing Christopher Knight’s book “Season of the Witch” – perfect. I see many stories within that would also translate nicely to the screen. If you don’t know the author immediately he is also known as Johnathan Rand, author of the popular children series American Chiller. He is also the author and client we have been working on with the thriller “Bestseller” (also a book). RE: Bestseller – We had some tech meetings on Friday and this week we have a great creative meeting coming up. This film will be done early 2015 and already has some distribution interest.
Speaking on distribution, we will be making an announcement on “Ashes of Eden” this weekend at the East Lansing Film Festival. It’s great that our inspirational crime drama is back playing for a home town audience. We may have a few more theatrical runs before the wider release but I do have TV and foreign talks underway. Not just with these two fine films (Ashes of Eden & Bestseller) but the entire CDI library. I have some important talks with some large territories. Many of our films have released to multiple foreign territories but that release is going to get wider and wider. Stay tuned as our films could be reaching billions. Yes. I said billions. Movies are loved all over the world and we want to introduce ours. Numerous deals are underway and I’m excited about the possibility of new 2015 releases.
We are gearing up to shoot “Wasteland” in December and the props under construction are really looking good. It also looks like a few of our films may be moving forward into production in early 2015. I don’t want to jinx anything so I’ll limit what I say here. Additionally, a pair of follow-up pictures behind “Book of Ruth” look to be coming together also. I’m excited about a pet project of mine that looks like it’s moving forward to shoot this Spring. It actually could turn into a slate of films. The business paperwork on some of these will be coming together in the weeks ahead. I’ve had numerous development meetings over the last few months with a few filmmakers that I see have the right combination of artistic talent and willingness to work within a business model. So we may be bringing a few filmmakers into the fold of the CDI tribe to develop them into feature film directors with international distribution set ups.
As a front-of-the-camera talent, I’ve had a few projects that were in holding patterns approach me this week with positive updates. My management contacted me with developments on my possible involvement in a few large scope projects. If scheduling is the issue I have to deal with in 2015 – I can work that out. You always want projects to go nose to tail so you can do them all. But as typical in life, things often overlap or all try to happen all at once. I don’t stress. I go back to the ole “cross that bridge when you get to it” mentality. Things do have a way of working themselves out and I sincerely believe that I end up doing the projects I was meant to do.
This next coming Sat I will be attending the showing of STANDING POST, directed by my friend/associate Anthony Hornus. It features the acting work on Steven Sutherland (Ashes of Eden), Mary Jo Cuppone (Figure in the Forest) and Dean Teaster (Ghost Town) and so I’m greatly looking forward to it. Please do come out and support the Red, White and Blue non-profit and their work with our US Military. It should be a great night and lots of fun.
I’ve also been getting some writing in and that feels good. I’m still a touch behind on my reading (Sorry) you all know who you are:) I’ve been trying to get these “Wasteland” scenes in the old memory banks. Financed projects with offers have to be read first and I’m sure is understood by all. I’ll wrap this up – guacamole might be calling me. I still have a few domestic things to do getting ready for winter here. I might try to pop into the East Lansing Film Festival tonight (maybe) but I do plan on being there tomorrow for the 4:30 showing. I think they might also have ‘Ashes of Eden” merchandise on hand. I’ve been wearing my ASHES OF EDEN sweatshirt due to how COLD it’s been in Michigan.
Enjoy the rest of your day. Be good to one another.
DJ
Going Space Cowboy & Other Fine Fall Updates
A beautiful fall day to be sure. After a stretch of perfect days that included a day trip to Hartwick Pines – we got to see the logging museum. Interesting to see how people lived and worked in the 1800’s as lumberjacks in Michigan. Talk about some hard-working individuals. Since that trip we’ve had some rain causing the dogs to want to den inside. I’ve been bouncing between winterizing duties and film work. Sometimes both happening at the same time – thank you bluetooth zen:) Our last harvest of beans and tomatoes was gathered this past week. The eggplant and sweet potatoes are all that remain in the garden – WAIT! I take that back. And hops. I will use them in some winter beer that I plan to make. Speaking of – I bottled up the Tropic Thunder (Banana & Coconut wine) and now have plans to make a batch of Berry/Hard Cider this week.
The cold chill outside makes me want to write…
I’ve also been putting some attention on a few script properties of mine. Some folks are likely not aware that I’ve done quite well with my scriptwriting. I’ve got a good stock of scripts that I’ve written over the years. I’ve written in many genres and really enjoy the overall process of creating. I’ve been paid to turn several books into screenplays and other scripts are originals. Some I’ve seen produced and others have been sold off to third parties.
Which ones do you sell DJ?
Good question. If I don’t see them as an acting vehicle they are often open game to sell. Some require a larger budget and will provide me with a good vehicle later so I’ve kept those on the down low. I’ve recently been letting a few be read here and there and that has led to a few option/buy offers – which at this time, I denied. A couple of my scripts I really know how I want to see them executed on-screen. Those I’ve held back to be worked with later. Anyway, more business is developing from the script side of things and so I’ve decided to finish up a half-dozen or so scripts that I’ve still got in process.
ASHES OF EDEN will play at 2014 East Lansing Film Festival. I was involved in the early days of the ELFF. Earlier this year we were approached at the Capital City Film Festival after we had sold out and asked if we were submitting to ELFF. I’m not a huge festival person but I surely do owe Susan Woods, their festival founder, for such great past networking. A good example is Taylor Nichols (Boiler Room) who we just had act in BESTSELLER. I met him back in 1999 and just last year was my first time working with Taylor. So long short is we accepted and we’re proud to be bringing one of the most exciting local projects back home and to my alumni campus. GO MSU! We will be making an announcement at the festival concerning the film’s national release. Also we might have a few foreign release announcements. I’m very proud because this film used many artists from our local Lansing area. Your work will be seen internationally.
Other Collective Development Inc. associated projects underway include the thriller BESTSELLER. The film is now having music composed by the talented Dennis Therrian. I’m appreciative of the fan support this film has had already. I can promise a tense nail-biting story. We’ve already had some great professional comments about the film trailer thus far. Once again, this film will also find a great distribution sprawl thanks to all the artists involved on both sides of the camera.
What’s NEW?
Other big news includes a new CDI Associated project called “Wasteland, Tales From the Desert” that will shoot Part 1 this December. The film is a series of woven stories all set on a harsh alien world. I’ve signed on to co-star/co-produce in the film. With the spotlight on me I’ve been able to showcase several great actors to the director that I’ve worked with on past projects. (Good reason to keep your reels up to date) Pre-production work is well underway. I’m excited to be shooting in the Valley of Fire State Park in AZ. CDI has already been involved in a few films shot in AZ. I also co-starred in a Las Vegas film a few years back and so that is helping. Bottom line. I’m excited to go play space cowboy for a few in December.
Lastly, I want to thank my management for the hard work I’ve already seen underway. I’ve got some great business underway for the last quarter of the year. I think the most exciting thing is that despite all the good things that unfolded in 2014…2015 is going to be even better:)
Have a great Saturday and go MSU!
DJ
Filmmaker Advice and Announcements
I’m sipping some strong coffee due to a slight malfunction in the back up coffee maker. It goes perfect with Fall which has arrived here in Michigan. The chilly air and leaves that are slowly starting to change signal this new push towards the harvest. I’ve had a few great sit down meetings this week with associates old and new. I’m a private person who really likes to focus on goals and stay far away from the drama or distractions. To isolate these elements from your life circle allows you to truly add as much creative into your business as possible. I’ve talked about people who tend to use the same variables and are surprised when they get the same results. If you are happy with your direction – great. But if you are not you have to look at your variables and see what is not working. Adjustments in attitude, time management or collaborations can greatly effect the outcome. I’m writing this week within the framework of this – 2 weddings and one funeral for a 18-year-old girl connected to our 4H yearly activity. To see someone who lived fully without any thoughts of a near end and two pair of individuals making a go of it in life can be rewarding. More so when you realize you still are alive and get to meet life’s challenges. It won’t always be so. One day be it tragic or peaceful – your journey here will end. Your children, your art, your words – what will you leave behind? Let’s move to our discussions on film and entertainment…
ASHES OF EDEN – I was proud when I saw the 42 new show dates for our film in Canton and Novi. (See pic for dates) I try not too let pride take hold to often but in this moment, I was. We are not 4 walling or renting the theater – we’re in a partnership much like the major studios. CDI sales team has a new head of theatrical which we will announce. This team will be pushing “Bestseller” and other films from the CDI library out to market. This is a new revenue flow that previously did not exist. A handful of showings were done in days past to avoid the label of DIRECT-TO-VIDEO but it is now a true avenue. Why? The technology and the quality of the product is at a studio level. (Distributor words not mine) Hiring professionals is not enough it’s the focusing of these artists efforts towards telling the best story possible. At the hobby level of filmmaking this is hard because some scenes stay in the film or aren’t cut because someone loved the scene performance, so and so would be mad, the camera shot is great BUT does it serve the story. I’ve seen much growth in this area and I’m humble enough to say I’m always learning both as a creative and as a businessman. You cannot walk around with a full cup or you cannot accept anything new.
I thought I would share some information that was presented recently to a rising filmmaker I sat down with. IF you have some backing and you want to showcase yourself stronger than you have you need good associations. Until you see a department run as it should it is hard to hold yourself to a certain level. We’ve opened ourself at CDI to associations but first it is with whom. Making films is a lengthy process and requires a lot of close collaboration. If your personality runs against this grain of respecting work flow, non-defensive discussions, openness to options – we will pass. I will not argue or deal with big egos. We PR films on a regular schedule but we also don’t attach any entitlement. It is marketing. If you have successfully done certain things you are entitled to an opinion but even that should be done with caution. I see many people not only marketing but believing their own fable. Now I believe that you must have faith in yourself but nothing says confidence like quiet at times. I had someone once ask me after conveying some negative comments about me – if I care? They were surprised that I wasn’t mad but sad for that person. All someone has to do is usually look at the accomplishments of the doer and the complainer and it quickly becomes apparent who is better at using their energy. The sad is for the wasted energy. That circle of negativity can envelop a person or a group. That old “birds of a feather flock together” saying. Seek something better. It doesn’t matter if you are a hobby artist or professional. Who would keep going to a scrapbook club that was plagued by negativity? Play for a team that is chaos and drama? Same in the workplace – people move on from bad work situations or there is a change in leadership. Decide if you want to be a flocking feather or soar with positive doers. Your choice always.
To circle around again to ASHES OF EDEN – we’ve also signed our National deal for home video and digital. We will be announcing more about that in the coming weeks. In the meantime Shane Hagedorn and I have been busy discussing what will be our next collaboration. If you don’t know Shane he is a salt-of-the-earth, hard-working man who I’ve taught and learned from. That is what a positive collaboration is all about. It was also brought up in a recent meeting (Not with Shane) about the divisions existing in Michigan. East-side, West-side blah blah…I say, we are Michigan. I’ve worked in all corners of Michigan with cast and crew from wherever. I’m looking at their art and attitude not their zip code. Lansing doesn’t usually doesn’t get involved in those film turf wars talks. I mean locally aside from CDI only Jeff Burton and maybe our Ahptic friends have worked at that international level. Still it doesn’t matter. It can be done. Our films can compete just like our cars, wines and other MI products. But to do so you have to make product people elsewhere want to see. You have to make it at a quality level that meets quality control. You have to have all legal aspects tied up so you don’t end up with a big home video for family and friends. This is the reality. If you tried to sell and market an unappealing (subjective) car that couldn’t meet safety codes and compliance – who would buy it? You could cobble together some off-road mud buggy for fun or a zippy little go-cart but you can’t expect it to be highlighted in the car industry. Some films are like Go-Carts and their makers think they can enter the Indy 500 and win. This is not a Pixar cartoon with nitro powered snails:) So be realistic. Set realistic goals. Execute with maximum pre-production so you can handle problems you can’t plan for. Don’t cut corners. Don’t allow your ego to trump the story. Keep modifying your process and watch the success start to grow. Good mentors and associations are also key to success – so if professional is your goal – take the realistic steps.
BESTSELLER – We had a great meeting over this thriller with the book creator Chris Wright/Knight aka Jonathan Rand. He is a self-made man like myself enjoys the journey to success. We made some solid decisions on our distribution flow that I’m quite excited about. If you don’t know him your children likely do may from his AMERICAN CHILLER, MICHIGAN CHILL, ADVENTURE CLUB books and much more. This film is now moving into the sound/music stage with Dennis Therrian and we will have a fun go at finishing this thriller. The 1st trailer has created huge buzz for us in the distribution circles thus far and so in 2015 we will see this film presented on the big screen, small screen and everything in-between. Great job Chad Ice on getting that final edit locked up. He had only done shorts when he approached me during our film shoot about the possibility of editing. I do know lots of editors but in this case having someone already invested in the material was a huge bonus. I think he discovered that a feature is very different animal from a short film. I’m proud that we were his first feature film and I think he gained some great experience and insight while we benefitted from his artistic talent. Much more information on this film will be flowing in the coming months.
THE TERRORIST is on a second pass of music and so they are very close. I really enjoyed this NYC based film and can’t wait to have this finished and in the collection. I think many people around the world will benefit from the messages within the story.
We are funding on a few films currently and with pre-set distribution and some great attachments we should be rolling camera again in the near future. If you have your own funding and want to be considered for an association reach out. If you are a new director without money chances are slim to none that we will slide you into a film that is financed on our end to direct. But if you have your $ support and want to create something that will help you move up the professional ladder feel free to reach out. We do say NO more than YES but it’s all case-by-case basis and much of the decision lies in how collaborative the person is. If you’re NOT a budget-minded/producer friendly director you will not work well in our camp. Same for aspiring actors – know your craft and be production friendly. Actors who have had or tried to produce tend to have a much better respect for the company and work flow. When PR was going around on ASHES OF EDEN announcing the new Canton/Novi screenings – one Detroit-based actor responded to one of our staff that he would support the film ONLY if the actors were paid.
NOTE: We’ve paid our actors since our second CDI film in 1999. It wasn’t much back in the day but it was a wage. It is like this actor was policing productions. The truth is we were likely paying our actors when this fellow was still playing a cloud in his middle school play:) But these jaded mentalities wouldn’t exist if not for shady production companies. We’ve all been there but don’t carry that negative with you from project to project or it will paint you in that negative light. To see what happens to “negative nellies” go back up and read the start of the blog. Okay I’ve enjoyed the chat with all of you. G’Day to our Aussie friends who have been tuned in to this blog. I hope you all have a great day and maybe a line or two of this word spewing can help you.
Keep clawing your way to the middle!
DJ
End of Year Wrap-Ups and New Film Updates
The year is underway and many business endeavors are moving. It has been a good week of organizing and prepping for new business. I’ve also been getting some good training in for the new year. That is mostly for the soccer field but doesn’t hurt for camera work either. I know many of you are putting your new year resolutions into play. Let’s look at some of the new actions in motion.
1) We are about to PR “7 Stones” now available on VOD.
2) Discussions are underway on a few new biblical films after it was reported that we have the highest grossing biblical film with our distributor. We had some good talks over this property.
3) Our director Shane Hagedorn is in studio doing a music check today on “Ashes of Eden” and we are excited as this film nears the finish line. Early distribution talks have started and many are just waiting to see our full story.
4) “Bestseller” is now officially in editing and we should have a rough cut in about a month. We are all excited to see this film moving to the next phase. I’ve had several good talks about what will follow “Bestseller” and soon we may have a sure direction. I am getting distributor input on all these ideas.
5) I’ve been having some literary agent talks after a recent option/purchase agreement on one of my script properties. I think that scripts that I do not see as an acting vehicle I may consider selling. There will be more PR on this as it develops.
6) We’ve had some interest in possible financing on “Soul Eater” my prequel to “The 8th Plague” so that was submitted last week and now we wait.
7) New foreign territory and TV Network talks started this week. We will see what develops from all of that.
8) I need to get new updates on “Donors” and “The Terrorist” but I know both are very close and will be coming to market this year.
Aside from all this I have been prepping some of the end of the year business work for taxes and such. It is the less exciting aspects of filmmaking but so very important. I hope you all are staying focused and enjoying your first month of 2014. It was a week of steady business and that always leads to something exciting.
Happy Saturday!
DJ
Harvest of Fall and Filming
Another Saturday here in the beautiful area of N. Michigan. We are a few short days from camera roll and I’m a proud producer. We’ve got a hardworking team that I ‘m confident will show the talent here in our state. This is not a “just get by production” this is truly a get ahead production. You can have fun but that is secondary and a result of good work. This morning is our last pre-production meeting with department heads. It is a meet N greet for the new crew coming in and a point check of all week one scenes. I’ve got to hand it to everyone once again. Some of you know that this project is a reboot after some hired guns tried to “wing it” with production. To each their own and I wasted enough time talking about those who don’t do it right. That is why I’m so happy with what we have here on both sides of the camera. I’ve worked with crews around the state and in a few different countries and I think we have a good team built here. I’ve fought the Michigan backwoods reputation my entire career and I always take a step forward and elsewhere others put us three steps back. Investor wells run dry and those filmmakers contained to the state dry up and die on the vine. So as these years have clicked by it is good to share some of the gathered experience. Many of these good folks will move into other positions over their careers to director of photography, producers and directors. As they do I hope they recall fondly the production(s) we’ve shared and seek to create in a similar fashion. Most know that I’m an actor first and so I produce things that I see as a good vehicle and feel strong about. Many at CDI come from that camp of actor/producers. I have to give Melissa Anschutz a lot of credit on her second producing gig with me as her energy is inspirational. Many people want to work hard and have pride in the work. All that starts at the top and the example carries through down to the pride in a craft service table or tweaking that last look on make up or set dressing. I’m happy that we are able to provide such a good experience to our crew and cast due in part to the many sponsors we have on board. You can see some of them on the BESTSELLER website. http://www.bestsellerthemovie.com
Our crew are staying in beautiful condos that are several thousand dollars a month. No tents, campers or Motel 6 on this one. Yes, some major extra work by the staff but at the end it is a great way to show them how much we appreciate them all. This and many other extras were not achieved by throwing money but by representing ourselves well and creating a win-win for both parties. We even have a soccer field that may result in a day off match but somehow I see beer drinking and watching the Lions more likely:)
I’m excited to be flying in a few famous friends to help tell our story. All seasoned vets of our industry that I’m proud to have in our cast. Their work speaks for them and they loved the story and know the commitment of CDI and its partners to telling a story. I love the excitement just before we roll. The beautiful thing is we have not had one panic moment and everything has been calm and orderly. When you walk in the office you hear just the tap-tap of laptops and the sipping of water and coffee. I’ve also had a major fill of seafood since I’ve been here. Thank you to the local Native Odawa Casino for a couple of great “All you can eat” crab leg prime rib pre-production meals.
“Ashes of Eden” is getting close to finalizing sound design and what a difference that makes. WOW! We’re taking our time to put these last elements together perfectly. It is a great film and soon we will show the world.
“Donors” is also finalizing sound design and that is all that needs to be completed.
The same is true with “The Terrorist” formerly “Benjamin”. After a recut of the film that made it much edgier they just have to polish up the sound before a 2014 release.
“Darkest Night” has launched on HULU and that is exciting. So if you have that platform please do check it out.
Well, I’m in need of another hazelnut coffee to get ready for this 10 am meeting. I’ve had a great treat last night and tonight as my girl is up with her cousin visiting and shopping in the area. They brought my furry son Luke and he was so happy to see me yesterday. He is having a great time as they are staying outside of town at a B&B that allows animals. He met his first horses yesterday and was completely interested in them. I think he saw them as the largest and most unusually smelling dogs he has ever met:)
Until next Sat when I will have a 1st week rundown. Depending on our schedule it might have to happen on Sunday which is our day off. I hope everyone has a great productive week and enjoys the harvest of fall around them.
DJ
Bestseller 2.0, ASHES Trailer, Tomatoes & TV Series
Good morning to all of you EST readers and for all others hello! I’m excited that this blog has really got to be international reflecting the great brotherhood and sisterhood of artists world-wide. Many years ago I stared this blog on a DJ Perry fan page created by well, a fan Pepper and it has grown into this blog over the years. It is a place where you can tune in and read about my journey and maybe gather some unique insight into your own situations. I’ve been a bit tough over the last few weeks because if you really want my comments on issues unfolding around me I’m going to state the facts. I’ve never been a real sugar-coated type person. I’ve had issues with people in power who think they demand respect vs earn it. I’m many things outside this business of ours and so a title means little if I don’t respect you. I look to actions vs words and truly look at the person and their potential. I would rather have someone with less experience and the right skill set to nurture and develop. Know that your actions are always being evaluated and in our business evaluation and accountability are king.
We’ve made some great structure changes to the upcoming BESTSELLER film. It has been a time of evaluation and accessing and I have to say that I’ve not seen such potential squandered in some time. That has almost all been corrected. As legal and accounting clean up the past um… camera tests? Acting rehearsals? We’re preparing an entirely new ship to launch – BESTSELLER 2.0. New management, new director, script clean up, new locations, new battle plan and accessing cast and crew. For those who saw the PR last week, I did accept the offer to play a lead in the film. I’ve been enjoying “finding” that character within and I look forward to working with my “7 Stones” co-star again. Stay tuned for a new website that will also be launching with our new campaign. This movie is going to be an exciting ride.
If you want to see what film our team previous managed I invite you to watch the official theatrical premiere of ASHES OF EDEN. It premieres tomorrow Sunday at 8:00 pm EST at
https://www.facebook.com/events/396047207183814/?ref=3
ASHES OF EDEN dialogue edit is now about complete and sound design and music work is about to start. Color correction work underway. They had an event last night and played the trailer sneak peek for a few hundred people to a great reaction. More promotions are going to be heating up as we make our way towards a late fall premiere. We also did a Lansing area radio show that broadcasts to 30 countries and that can be found on the http://www.ashesofedenmovie.com site.
This week has also been filled with other notable news
A drama that may or may not launch in Detroit next week – I’ve been consulting on since about December and we have a production contract sitting out there. The company needed some LOI from us and wanted us to work out the legalese later. STOP RIGHT THERE! You want to know why so many projects become a cluster ##$% is that you need to define and work out legalese ahead of time. Too many people have carts pulling horses. It seems to be a reoccurring issue with some people and it always spells trouble. Good business starts with a good foundation and that means have a solid groundwork of agreements. This venture has had some major issues in communication whereas advise given is just flatly refused. I’m trying to give advice to protect an investment and give the chance for the best film possible to be made. But at the day’s end they want to push forward despite warnings and so what do you do? Script changes, creative suggestions that help budgetary issues – all given and ignored. Now I’m not use to going at something as just a JOB. I run on passion and art with business being woven throughout. Some of what I warned about is coming into play because at the end of the day – hard work in the wrong places and good intentions will not solve pre-production issues. I’ve had to look at the idea of checking my own ego and pride and just making the best possible film with the resources available. So the contracts are out there and the requirements known so if it happens – I will go at this like I do everything – with BEST EFFORTS. If they don’t agree to our most basic requirements – pass. I’ve passed on several projects this year including another acting offer yesterday. It just has to make sense. My issue here is saying NO can mean a financial loss to many people BUT there will always be another. Until the ashes are spread I will always have the need to create and engage in storytelling but I refuse to be ruled by SHELLS & BEADS. Now time will decide – I had to kill all effort and communication – time for talk is done and now only action remains. TO DO or to DO NOT!
There is interest that came from left field on helping to produce and co-star in a TV series for a major network that I watch often. A pitch last week, which by the way was thought to be a bust – resulted in a call that evening sharing their interest. Never overlook the poker face. I hear it from many actors who think they tanked an audition and that is the one they landed. Now this project here is of course under non-disclosure but it is one of the few projects that I have said yes to as a regular. (Should it go) So as soon as I get off this I have a story meeting as now they need their written pitch to move up the line to get green lit. It may or may not work out but it is another growing experience. Also in sharp contrast to the previously discussed project – good communication is what has this project moving.
Word is that a couple of films recently licensed may be dubbed into Spanish for distribution. I’m still working the final pieces of the Germany license deals.
Great Skype meeting over “Darkest Night” and the 2014 follow-up shoot of “The Beast”. They have hired a director and the UPM and so movement is beginning on that front.
“Supermodel Showdown” TV series is moving right along. Some teasers for this will soon be heading to distributors and audiences.
Outside of all this movie stuff – a great soccer tie last week against former league champions. Tomatoes are now ripe in the garden. I did some good work on the office this week. We did some good grilling and chilling a few evenings and today will also have us grilling some pork steaks. I’m off for a story meeting before enjoying the day. I hope each and every one of you have a great weekend and productive week ahead.
DJ
Summer Saturday Rundown
It is another Summer Saturday in the Michigan and I’m sipping the morning java and writing you a few of my thoughts of the past week. I will try to bring something forth that might help some of you others walking this path. I do have a few story’s from the week and I will perhaps pick one of them to try to teach a lesson.
The Oversell – I know in films about filmmaking you always see the slick Willie producer trying to tell everyone what they want to hear and keep their stories straight. This may be funny in the movies but those people aren’t real and once you burn bridges it rarely ends up happy ever after. Be honest and let it roll from there. I know various projects that worked in half-truths at best and I can’t stress enough that once you lose that credibility you are really in trouble. So don’t paint castles in thin air saying you have so and so on board if you don’t. I had a few situations where things were being said to try to appease someone and after a simple communication the jig was up. FALSE INFO. So someone comes across as either A) A liar or B) Clueless to the Truth. I don’t think either of these things play well into the perceptions of how someone runs their business. So if packaging something be honest and don’t oversell. Because that person may be able to pick up a phone and directly confirm your story and if it doesn’t vet out, you lose.
I also had a situation this week where someone claimed that my schedule was in conflict with a project that wanted me to work on it. Right now I speak for myself. I know my schedule and what conflicts or does not. To have someone put words in your mouth screams agenda. I’ve seen people in casting positions (not experienced ones) try to push one talent over another. In this case someone had someone in mind for a lead because they thought somehow it would better their standing. So other options to that same role were buried. It is just a sad disservice to whomever hired that individual but that was all exposed and now this individual has that little check next to their name. Checks against someone don’t erase easy because someone rarely changes who they are or how they operate. I honestly don’t put too much energy into such matters because if someone placed these unqualified people in power that usually means a series of bad choices will be made. Too many bad choices equals a bad movie. If I’m asked for materials and I take the time to send them all I expect is for them to be seen by the right people. I don’t mind being turned down if something was truly evaluated. I lost another role a while back because I just won’t pass for a gaunt lab assistant. Not without a large paycheck to just focus on that and I shudder to think of what it would do to my soccer game:) You might look like another character or be the wrong age or race, all acceptable. But I book off my reels all the time and to hear someone say, “they don’t want to see reels.” WRONG. I’ve produced many films and reels are the best sell. Like if you were looking at hiring a PRO player on a team. Try outs are great but game footage is golden! Agents with a stable of actors without reels shy away from sending reels.
OK. Onto the more positive. Serbia media was blowing up on inventor TESLA’s birthday and the film I’m attached to officially changed the name of the film from THE MAD SCIENTIST to TESLA. I think it was a great move and I’m excited to be part of the movie telling the story of my favorite inventor.
We saw the PR release this week on the German, Austria, Switzerland deal going down with WICKED SPRING, DARKEST NIGHT and LOCKED IN A ROOM.
DARKEST NIGHT is now on VOD (Amazon Instant) and releases on DVD on the 16th of July here. You can see a sneak peek and so take a watch and leave a review of your experience.
http://www.fangoria.com/new/exclusive-clip-darkest-night/
This month we also have WICKED SPRING and FIGURE IN THE FOREST playing on Parables TV!
ASHES OF EDEN marketing is firing up and in the weeks to come we will have new posters, trailer and other exciting updates. The film is in post and is just way beyond my expectations.
SUPERMODEL SHOWDOWN series has been in editing and is truly a fun watch. We are starting to look at marketing for this project as well. I think lovers of reality TV will enjoy this show.
Other than that it has been doing yard improvements – and attending the 4H auction, picking berry’s and working the new driveway. I’m also happy to report the garden is producing the 1st beans and tomatoes will soon follow. I’m greatly enjoying my summer as I finish these projects up and develop new ones. I know I will be back in front of the camera again when the time is right. But until that time I will keep on with the business work and enjoying my day-to-day. We also start the second half of the soccer season on Sunday and I’m excited for that. I get to put my new gear into action! I wish you all a great weekend!
DJ
NEW DJ Perry Reel & REcap for the Week
JUNE 1st! I woke up this morning and got the fresh pot of coffee going. I did the 1st of 3 interviews for the upcoming release of “Darkest Night”. I’m excited that this story is going to finally release here in the US/Canada. I won’t go on and on about this film as you will soon have many interviews to read and also the film itself. The end of the week has been rain, rain, rain which is great for the new plants in the garden. Let’s get right to some FILM NEWS!
ASHES OF EDEN rough cut is done and we are doing a producers watch on Tuesday to make final notes before Shane Hagedorn makes his final passes on the film’s edit. I’ve seen the scenes individually and I’m beyond excited. The scenes are POWERFUL and I’m so proud of all the artists involved.
DONORS is almost done with the music and so that film is closer to being ready for release!
CDI Distribution team is closing in on several deals for films in the CDI library. It looks like “Darkest Night,” “7 Stones,” “Locked in a Room,” and “Wicked Spring” are heading to Germany. We will be working to finalize that deal this month! Stay tuned for other territories!
“Wicked Spring” and “Figure in the Forest” should be releasing this month on Parables Network my contact is saying.
“Supermodel Showdown” TV series is also looking great. I think it gives a fun, honest look at what goes into a REAL reality show.
This week was great on the development front. I read a few scripts as an actor and I should be making some decisions on summer filming here soon. The picture is getting more clear as I go. On that note – David Gries is working into the tribe here at CDI. I’ve explored his on-camera work this year and we’ve been working on a few projects together. I’m most appreciative for his opinions and work in helping me put together a 3 min sizzle reel that I wanted for a few opportunities. I sent the reel along to a few professionals yesterday and I will share it first on here. Enjoy. This is what actors use to showcase themselves and their diversity. It gets so hard because you end up with so much material. What stays? What goes? So I want to thank David for his help with this.
DJ PERRY 3 min sizzle reel
Maybe this will also inspire you to watch a few of the films showcased. Anyway this is my Birthday month and I’m kicking it off with the new reel. This month will bring great growth and I will continue to move forward on this journey step-by-step. I encourage you to do the same. Don’t look at how far you have to go and let doubt sink in. Just take that step. Take that next step. Soon you will realize how far you have actually gone. Life is a journey and not a destination so enjoy it. You can’t enjoy a breakthrough without setbacks. You can’t have satisfaction without some frustration. You just want to try to keep your balance and tackle each issue as they come. From the struggle always comes growth.
Have a great weekend!
DJ
Owosso Event, Editing & Enter Spring
We finally had a few days that were Spring-like in nature. I worked at the biz in the morning and spent a couple of afternoons working in the yard and new office. The dogs loved spending the 5 to 6 hours playing, sleeping in the yard. I build a compost bin after doing some on-line research as well as some yard grooming. The construction of the office really tore up the lawn. We also fired up the grill last night with the 4H pork chops and it was wonderful. I’m ready for another season of grill and chill. Also soccer season will be starting. I’ve done a good amount of strength training but I need to keep working the flexibility. I can see a few sore post game weeks ahead.
On the film front I have some good announcements and a few big meetings ahead. First is TONIGHT! I will be attending the event surrounding a fallen soldier from Owosso with our Afghanistan doc and country music acts. So I will be attending and I look forward to visiting Owosso once again.
We’ve been digitizing and editing on “Supermodel Showdown – Beauty Within” the TV series that is leading the new CDI TV division. I’ve also been reviewing work on “Donors” music score and “Ashes of Eden” editing.
Also we have the national release of “Darkest Night” this July and I’ve been reviewing some key art for DVD release. I’m excited to get that out to audiences. “Deadly Renovation,” “Locked in a Room” and upcoming “Darkest Night” – safe to say I’ve been working to bring you horror fans some new work.
Development work continues with some financial contributions on certain films. We don’t have a full go yet but I think very soon. We are in talks with many new companies/studios over licensing current films and participating in new films.
I’m excited to be in front of the camera again but it has to be the right project – by right I mean both business and artistically. I’m waiting to hear on one film that I really like so we will see what happens with that.
I might be missing a few topics but I have to go to an event with MSU Vet school this morning and then Owosso event tonight. Family birthday gathering tomorrow… BUSY WEEKEND.
I hope everyone had a great week and I wish continued success to all of you in the weeks to come. Be good and don’t look for short cuts. Hard work in gets results.
DJ
DJ Perry's Official Blog 'Clawing My Way to the Middle' 