A Great 2013 Ahead – What’s in Motion, Read On!
Happy 2013 to EVERYONE!
The Holiday season was a good one and we are wrapping up the last of our festivities this weekend. I’ve already been at some work this past week getting done what I can with most of Hollywood out for another week. That said, we’ve had several good meetings on post work for “Ashes of Eden” and not only has editing started but we are just a week maybe from releasing the 1st teaser! I think the artists will all be excited. I’ve had meetings over CDI commercial division and the development of certain projects. We’ve been getting deliverables around for two of our films going to TV this past week also. I had to strip off and re-load Skype on my Mac so I can be ready for some meetings. Several are over “Darkest Night” and the other Asian-based projects. We have some work underway with S. Korea and others for distribution and development.
“Deadly Renovations” announced some new artwork and that it would be releasing into Denmark, Sweden and other territories in that region. “Donors” released its first trailer and is moving into sound/music phase. We also hinted at one our next collaborations entitled “E & Me” which is a story I wrote and started the script a few years ago. I worked work Charles & Ace from the “Deadly Renovations” project to finish the script. We have a battle plan and so 2013 will see a new film finish (“Donors”) and a new film shot. (“E&Me”)
This week we should be making an official announcement about the upcoming release of “Locked in a Room” domestically in the US/Canadian markets. There has also been some development talk about what project will shoot next with At Risk Entertainment. I know some camera tests have happened and the script is being worked on by Larry Simmons.
“7 Stones” will likely see some more Michigan TV play while we shop it to the world TV networks. I had some early interest and we will see what lies ahead for this little film that packs a big emotional punch! “Realizism” another featurette will release in limited theaters and on DVD in April. “Benjamin” after playing Egypt is now gearing up for a limited theatrical before a wide release. Carlucci Weyant and I have had talks about other potential collaborations and we will see what develops.
“Book of Ruth, Journey of Faith” continues to sell well and we are preparing to launch into pre-production on another pair of biblical era films. Speaking of bible – I’ve been growing the beard and a teaser/trailer for “In Our Time” could be at hand. This powerful script is moving down B4Tyme’s production slate. I’m really looking forward to “Henry Ford” which if things line up will shoot in 2013. Besides my acting involvement CDI is going to handle the “Making of” on these films. Due to the fact that we’re a Michigan company the idea of doing something on Henry Ford is very exciting.
I had the pleasure of going through the holidays without some character screaming to get out of my head. But now that we’re into 2013 and I’ve started to look at a few roles. I’ve been communicating with a few directors out there and so we will see what happens. I’m ready! Write, Act, Develop, Produce, Post, Distribute… All good work and so let’s prepare to story tell once again in 2013!
Best success in the New Year!
DJ
DJ’s Holiday Recap (It was a busy one)
SNOW, beautiful white snow now covers the ground. Our 4H hams are defrosting for Christmas dinner and old friends are now in town. I’ve about put the business aside so I can fully focus on the holidays. My shopping is about done and I’m looking forward to just relaxing into the holidays. There are many things winding down for the end of the year and several new things ready to go in the new year.
A nice recap and some 2013 teases
– “Book of Ruth” is the 1st of a series of biblical films. We have two more films that have committed finance and we plan to shoot them in the 1st half of 2013. If you haven’t seen this film it makes a good family watch.
– “Deadly Renovations” has its 1st foreign distributor and we will be doing a PR release about whom and some new promotional art. The talks of sequel have once again been thrown about.
– “Donors” will be releasing a first teaser trailer around the 1st of the year on the http://www.donorsthemovie.com website.
– “7 Stones” had a good Michigan TV showing. They want to submit it for a Michigan Emmy. Anyhow you cut it it was a great experience and is a story full of drama.
– “Locked in a Room” is signed, delivered and I hear the artwork for DVD release is really cool. Better yet the film is really cool. I enjoyed watching the theatrical showings with people clutching each other and yelling at the big screen.
– “Outside the Wire” is suppose to be launching its full site and DVD sales the 1st of the year. This CDI associated project makes me very proud and a big congrats to Tony Hornus and Dennis Therrian putting in the long hours.
– “Benjamin” had several NYC theatrical showings and just played in Cairo, Egypt. I got emails from new fans there in Egypt and that was heartwarming to me. It is due for a few more festivals including Michigan. After that limited theatrical and mainline domestic distribution.
– “Darkest Night” the dark Christmas tale will release in the USA on March 22nd. A few theatrical showings may go on 1st and I know some foreign distribution is underway.
– April will bring the release of “Realizism” which I fully enjoyed shooting. My character Manny was fun to play in a Robin Hood kind of way:) It will have a local theatrical run followed by DVD sales.
“Ashes of Eden” that powerful drama we shot at years end here will release a first look in Jan. 2013 so audiences can get a peek. We have had some serious distribution interest and it will be looking at the best deal for the film.
“Figure in the Forest” and “Heaven’s Neighbors” are suppose to enjoy a national DVD release finally:) It has been a long journey. “Heaven’s Neighbors” is a very good theme film in light of all the mental ill talk going on now in our nation.
Many projects look like they will birth in 2013. I will proudly try to entertain you working with the bevy of talented artists I’m so blessed to work with. Venison steaks for a few of the amigos as I’m making room for the new processed deer.
DJ
The Ship Into Port
Today will be the last day of our ASHES OF EDEN journey. It has been an incredible journey filled with one powerful performance after another. It has also been captured by a very talented crew. I’ve had my patience tried once or twice over minor issues but all those things fade. What we will be left with is a story that is a testimony to what we cast & crew did this last quarter of 2012. I was surrounded by some of my old warriors and new ones. We attacked each day riding on the enthusiasm from the day before. What is great is that now the holidays are upon us and we can all rest knowing a job well done. The post process will begin with editing and move into music and sound with my supervisor Dennis Therrian. This will be a great experience putting this story together.
The VOD (Video on Demand) sites for “Deadly Renovations” are starting to pop up. “Book of Ruth” in Meijer stores now and I think Wal-Mart also. Tonight is a big showing of “Benjamin” in NYC at the Big Apple Film Festival. I thought it was last week but that is because I was in some odd time warp and got my days mixed up. I’m excited for that whole team of artists that busted in the record NYC heat to capture that film. I wish I could be there with all of you but I know it will be well received.
The old FORT/office is sold. The new FORT office is built and most of the furnishings are there now just packed up. This week it will be about organizing everything. We are still doing the walls in a few places so that limits what can be placed but by 2013 it will be a fully functional Deathstar:)
I’m off to go prep the final payroll today and off to set to hand them out. After that I’m back to Ionia for the night to help breakdown and oversee the production breakdown. The ship will be in the port and it will be time to secure it and unload our precious cargo.
Have a great weekend!
DJ
Autumn Film Updates
So this has been a wonderful week of prepping for the “Ashes of Eden” shoot. I’m actually writing this Sat. night so I can actually catch some of you up on the events as of late. We assembled an excellent crew – so much that for the last two nights I’ve looked to my phone for texts or emails with fires to put out or issues to address. It has been quiet. The office today was just a relaxing atmosphere. We’ve got a great cast and a powerful story to tell. We’ve got a few major studios tracking us and I think this film will be a classic. It has been front and center but in no way is it the only thing moving forward.
“Locked in a Room” completed final mix and was delivered to the distributor. More announcements there very soon. “Darkest Night” had its first US showing where it announced that it will release in the USA on March 22nd, 2013. I’m told that the S. Korea deal is now underway and I’ve very excited for US fans to see this film. It also took home a contribution award for the bridging of East/West at the FACINE festival in San Francisco. As for “Deadly Renovations” it opens on various VOD networks on Nov. 1st so look for it there or buy at amazon.com, rent at Blockbuster but enhance your Halloween experience:)
Speaking of that I want to thank Nancy Gideon for the wonderful interview she did for her Haunted House online site. It was good to talk about film past, present and future:) Thank you Nancy.
I’m waiting on release dates nationally for “Heaven’s Neighbors” and “Figure in the Forest” after a deal with our rep went South last year. It has been reset and will finally be coming to you on DVD. Also some TV play looks to be at hand so stay tuned there as well.
I’m told “7 Stones” will be done Nov 15th and will play TV in December and I do hope that it does. Also I got to see a rough cut of “Realizism” and it is one funny film. Joe Andersen is one funny man:) “Donors” is in fine editing before moving to music and sound design. I will be releasing the new poster here soon that showcases Dr. Savior on the poster as well as our female lead Niki Saletta.
“Benjamin” is playing a few more festivals internationally and will be heading for theaters in early 2013. I’ve seen working cuts but I’m anxious to see the final film. Jon Osman was a great director to work for and I think he might just have something special. My buddy Carlucci from “Karma” and “Benjamin” is onboard “Ashes of Eden” and so it will be cool to see him in a few days.
The NEW fort office is structurally sound and while I’m working the AOE production office the inside wiring and walls will be worked on. I’ve been packing up the old fort office and soon the transition will be complete. A new chapter will begin and I for one am ready to attack 2013. We have another paid of biblical era films and Dean Teaster’s “Long Road Home” looks close to financing. I have several other film partnerships underway and I hope they get to be told in 2013.
Well, I’m happy that I had a chance to really fill you all in on my endeavors as of late. I’m a person who loves fall and this thinning of the veil.
Dance ye round the balefire:)
DJ
“Darkest Night” Announces US Distribution Tonight & More…
It is the end of a long day and I’m tired. I’ve been doing some major moves on three different fronts. I’m packing up the old office, finishing stuff on the new office and prepping to go into high gear next week before we start filming Oct 29th. Today the final window went in and so it is all enclosed. Oak staircase being put in now and it looks great. I love the rustic and it has that charm. It has been odd packing up all the things at the old Fort but the new office is a big improvement. All day it has also been back and forth on casting, crewing, accounting, flights and prepping for day one of the production office. There will be some PR releases on new cast. We have some new sponsors coming on board as well. More ASHES OF EDEN updates soon.
Tonight in San Fran at the FACINE festival we are having the 1st public US screening of “Darkest Night”! There will be an announcement there which should excite the fans following this film. Next week a PR release will go out on this as well. Also look for some news on “Donors”! “Locked in a Room” also will be announcing our distribution very soon! So excited to have this rolling out to you.
Also it looks like a pair of our biblical films will be rolling into production. A lot of back and forth on that and I still need to read the most recent draft of one of the scripts for “Rachel” (working title). We are locking the “Ashes of Eden” script and it goes to printer tomorrow. It is great to now be able to read and visualize many of the actors. Boy! We have some real talent stepping up on this film. Watch IMDB.com to see who our in front of and behind the camera team consists of.
I’ve had many small trials and tribulations over the last week or so but I am flowing. I’m just trying to do what I can – where I can and not be unmotivated by what I cannot effect at this time. I’m excited to be riding out the year in and around my home town. I’m excited for the holidays that will soon fall upon us and allow us time with our family and friends.
Okay I’m off to catch a few Zzzzzzzzz’s!
Enjoy the weekend!
DJ
Egypt, Ashes and All Kinds of Updates…
It has been a week of many things in motion and working hard to close them down. It has been a year of assigning distribution and moving things along. I’ve shot a few new films and we have a slew of new films about to launch. This home office has been one of the more challenging things I’ve taken on in many a moons. I’m a tinkering person when it comes to handy work but not a builder. Working with someone who knows what they are doing has been really a great thing. In many ways I’ve said it is like making a film. Smaller crew for sure but many things remain the same. The new FORT will be the hatching place for many new films. Let’s look at a few updates where I can provide one.
First on “7 Stones” they are revamping the sound that was in dire need. It was simply not going to pass any distributor quality control. The drama, the look all great but that sound was lacking. Now they hope to have that all done by mid November and a TV showing/premiere is planned for December just in time for Christmas. Ho! Ho! Ho!
We should have VOD (video on demand) dates for “Deadly Renovations” here soon. “Locked in a Room” is delivering to distributor. “Darkest Night” is negotiating a deal as we speak and so look forward to announcements. “Benjamin” is getting accepted into many major festivals including one now in Egypt. I heard “Realizism” has a rough cut done so that is moving nicely. “Donors” is in post and about to enter sound design/music. I would say we have quite a bit going on.
“Ashes of Eden” has been #1 on the list as of late. We have been doing some heavy castings and are about to announce some new cast members. Behind the scenes work is underway and we are soon to enter our official pre-prod phase and we hope to roll cameras end of Oct. and finish just before Thanksgiving. Our team can go eat large and get to work in post production. This is going to be one powerful film! The film is also on IMDB so feel free to follow along with that.
Soccer season is now over and so film work and winterizing has become the priority. I need to create another wind break/insulate the California Red Wood tree we have growing. We use to bring it inside during the winter but it got so big we had to put it in the ground. It survived last winter and is thriving but it needs the help. The garden has only yielding a bit of a harvest here and there but it is still something I enjoy.
On the acting front I’m excited because we did cast the actress in “Ashes” to play opposite myself. You have to watch for the next PR but an amazing talent. I’m being talked to about a role in Grand Rapids/Holland as well as a line up of 2013 projects. That is in addition to what we have lining up and so I’m excited to end the year strong and get ready for another. So have a hot apple cider and enjoy the season!
Go MSU:) Go Lions:)
DJ
“Darkest Night,” “Darkest Night,” “Ashes of Eden”…Updates
Ahhhhh… The first days of fall and my first morning sips of hazelnut coffee taste so good. I have to say we are entering my favorite time of the year. I like to rise to that little chill in the morning and as of late I’ve been rising earlier and earlier. The year of work has been steady with the finishing and distribution of projects. I’ve still got a series of films in post production and so step by step. I’ve been happy that in this season “Deadly Renovation” made it out so that those who enjoy a slight fright can enjoy.
We have been very busy prepping “Ashes of Eden” and I think we are getting close. We have been in talks with talent and crews and this week added Mayra Leal as our young female lead. I love the work I’ve seen from her and look forward to seeing her perform. Our SAG paperwork is underway , locations being scouted and we hope to set official dates very soon.
I’m proud to say that we have a signed deal on “Locked in a Room” and once all materials are accepted At Risk Entertainment will announce the details of the deal. Also I’m happy to say we have an offer we like on “Darkest Night” for domestic (US/Canada) release and we are working to put all that paperwork together. We will be doing an official announcement at the FACINE film festival in San Fran. That showing will be our 1st official US release to audiences. Stay tuned for ticket info and more on the distribution.
I got to hear that the 40+ minute cut of “Realizism” is looking great! “7 Stones” is still plodding along. “Donors” will soon be moving into post sound/music. Other news is I just got hit with a slew of scripts to read. I got the newest scripts for “Rachel” & “Rahab” that will be our next two biblical era films. I got a script from actor/producer Michael Walton to read with an offer to act. Also several other films working down the development line are looking really good.
I thought about ranting about a few of the lower points of the week in business but they were really small issues actually. I’m having a great morning and so we will pass on pointing out obvious issues in our business that need to be worked out. On another front, the home office is looking great and I’m looking forward to having a new zen place to work from. It will have all my files gathered and organized. I can only see things getting better and better as we enter into the new year. To each of you I hope you have a great weekend.
DJ
NEW Michigan Film Opportunities “Ashes” and More…
The last few days have been beautiful in the Michigan. My time has been spent on prepping the new home office and working development on “Ashes of Eden”. Our PR announced the project last week. (See http://www.cdiproductions.com to read story) We’re locking in many of our leads and talking with key crew members. More cast announcements will be forthcoming this week. We will be setting our firm start dates here in the next two weeks. The locations, scheduling and other pre-prod duties are being knocked down now that may allow for a shorter official pre-prod time. As for the other task of building my new “Fort Perry” it has been a wonderful experience so far. I’m excited to have the new space to store old files/paperwork and having a place to meet with all the artists I do business with. It will serve a few tasks just like the old “Fort Perry” did. I want to thank all those who have given a hand in the process this far.
“Deadly Renovations” had the start of its release on the 21st of August and I think a good many folks are checking it out. We’ve had DVD signings in Yuma, AZ that went very well. I’ve had friends say they rented it at Blockbuster and are having watch parties. Others have added to their collection buying it off Amazon. I’m not sure if Netflix has it up yet but they should soon. (Just call the number they provide and ask) Also what would be a release without the haters:) You have to love those fans. I saw someone with the 50 accounts trying to throw up their (1’s) and a something that passes for a review. (barely) With a little closer of a look that account shows it is just another frustrated film school grad that gets in the real world and can’t make a film. What? No school to give me lights and grip equipment? No school to provide a sign out camera? Nobody to believe in their script/story? BUCK UP CAMPER:) Welcome to the real world:) You have to sell people on you. Your passion has to push the story. It is like the new STARFLEET grad who thinks they are going to get the command chair on the USS MOTION PICTURE. I guess they’re stunned when they are handed a red shirt and assigned to shuttle crew duty. It’s that “I’m owed something” mentality of many young people today. NOT ALL! Many. I just note that many of those people who carry that negative attitude seldom get a project off the ground. Their personality does not inspire investors to get behind these folks. Investors are thinking, if I don’t like this persons outlook others likely won’t either and chances are the project will fail. Those negative people of course think the investor is stupid and all those who get their projects made are inferior artists. They spew- if they had done it…STOP. You did not do it. And with a certain bad attitude you will not do it. They are reduced to slamming others work in hopes that the feelings of failure will go away. So try some respect in your life and see where that gets you. I respect “doers” even if I don’t LOVE their work. I also understand “subjective” which is something many artists fail to grasp. Many times things are not better just different. Some will like this and some will like that. So it was almost fun to see some of those negative folks again like the crazy uncle at the family reunion. Don’t be that guy/girl:)
I want to give congrats to Gabrielle Stone who GPI has chosen to be my co-star in the 2nd Philippine feature “The Beast” to shoot in 2013. She and I have met on another set and also I know her momma. I’m looking forward to working with her and telling some good story.
“Benjamin” is playing the LONG ISLAND FILM FEST INTERNATIONAL
So check out the times and catch it before worldwide distribution!
Same with “Darkest Night” that will play the FACINE festival in San Francisco this fall!
“Donors” and “7 Stones” is post. I have a final ADR session for “Locked in a Room” before we send mixed master to distributor. I can say the deal is signed and it is a great mini-major studio. I’m happy about all this and I hope to have some exciting news to share over many of the other films. I think many of the foreign fans will soon be very happy.
I’m looking forward to shooting “Ashes of Eden” because it will give me the core of a Michigan crew. We’ve got other film projects launching both inside and outside of Michigan. If you have interest in seeing a sponsor package for “Ashes of Eden” let me know. I’m off to look at doors and windows this morning. Last night was a recharging (blue) full moon and I feel great and ready to go forth into Sept. and ride out 2012!
Have a great day and thank you for your continued interest!
DJ
“Green Goblin” and NEW “in associations” for CDI
The rain has been falling like crazy playing catch up for the poor crops here. The garden will surely drink all this up and we should have more harvest soon. We’ve been having a few tomatoes ripen here and there and so those are being enjoyed. We broke into the first bottle of the “Green Goblin” our fall harvest wine from last year made with green tomatoes and ginger root. It was a hit at our dinner party save for my mother. She’s picky – what can you say:) As I was told recently – at least I know where I get my brutal honesty.
I’m here to announce that CDI has entered into “an association” deal to develop and produce a feature film with local Lansing filmmaker Shane Hagedorn with his New House Entertainment. The working title is “Road to Eden” which may or may not remain – but we’ve been having all the foundation meetings to put key elements into play. This project will provide a chance for a mix of old CDI guard and new upcoming folks to work together. I will be producing and playing a role in the film. I was not expecting to dig on this one character as much as I did. Sometimes a character jumps off a page and right into your head. So we will be doing an official PR release this week but you heard it here first.
I also did a read on “Kinship of Death” the TV pilot to shoot after Thanksgiving and before Christmas in the Philippines. I was so surprised and really excited about bringing the character to life in that show. He is a cool antagonist and I think it will showcase a new side of me while also playing to my strengths. If network numbers are strong we will shoot an entire season early 2013. I hope to have some updates on “Darkest Night” here very soon for fans out there.
“Deadly Renovations” in 10 days – August 21st so get your copy on any of the various retail outlets. Blockbuster is one of the newest additions. I’m also hearing that an in-store signing will happen at THE HASTINGS video store in Yuma, AZ with director and producer. Here is a good interview I did last week that centers on “Deadly Renovations”.
Interview Link
“Locked in a Room” has isolated a distributor deal they like and are doing some back and forth to get all parties happy. It is a good company and will get a strong push. This will announce very soon so hang in there.
I’m hearing the wildly popular “Benjamin” has been invited to participate in another major festival – 29th annual LONG ISLAND FILM FESTIVAL. September 18, 2012 to September 29, 2012. Stay tuned….”7 Stones” is still in final post, “Donors” still in post – “Realizism” now in post – some good pics coming forth now. I still have had a little drama from certain members of that team but I’m trying to just write it off as just inexperience and leave it at that. These kids will find out that the world doesn’t owe them and everyone doesn’t always win. Things aren’t always followed by juice boxes, cookies and pats on the head. A few of them I will likely see on film sets, maybe even ours – but more than most will realize the harsh truth that few will work in this industry of ours.
I still have the new draft of “The Beast” to read and another Philippine script with an acting offer attached. I also have some work to do on “Road to Eden” pre-prod. so I think I will draw this to a close and get back to some work. Thank you one and all for sharing your morning with me.
DJ
DJ Perry's Official Blog 'Clawing My Way to the Middle' 