Birthdays, Premieres and Battle Plans
Jerome the Birthday Gnome sending birthday wishes!
Hazelnut Cheers! I want to again welcome all our readers from around the world. I’m pleased to see readers from a new country Curacao. Come to find out it is a Dutch Caribbean Island. So I bet you have some great views while sipping your coffee or rum drink and reading these updates. I have been to the islands a few times and have always enjoyed it. Imagine all the great stories to be told on that island. Everywhere has great stories worthy of being told and you all are the storytellers. It has been another whirlwind week of personal and professional. I want to take a moment to wish a few of our beloved tribe members a happy birthday. My relative Doug Emerson to start with. CDI long time collaborator and master of all things music mister Dennis Therrian aka Tricky T. Ian Griffin another CDI talent on both sides of the camera is also celebrating another candle on the cake. Fellow filmmaker Rich Brauer. And the immensely talented actress and businesswoman Melissa Anschutz. The last on that list I get the pleasure of working with again this Fall on WILD FAITH CHRISTMAS as Ben and Hester ride the trails again. The original script had Hester being the sidekick but anyone who has seen the first movie knows that Ben is the sidekick.
WILD FAITH CHRISTMAS is knocking off the things on the TO DO list daily. We have a read coming in today for one of the two main castings still open and I’ve got my fingers crossed. More props found including my original Ben Lily harmonica. Wardrobe is fun and that continues to come together. The official first script and schedule was posted for our key crew. Which this week I’ll be starting to put cast and crew paperwork together. I’m a week behind on that due to some construction work here on the property. I’m still working on a few sponsors for the film. We have to work out catering and a few final logistics but things are coming together great.
Harsens Island Revenge – This upcoming week we’re going to be focusing some energy on the Alpena premiere which is targeting November 1st. We are having some of the same initial issues we had with Silent Night in Algona’s premiere. The one theater of modest size questions the selling power of the film. Fridley did as well in Alpena before it starting blazing sales and expended in number of screens, locations and kept adding weeks. It outsold many if not most of the studio competition. We might have to explore a one night screening at the college campus but in Algona it was them not having the right equipment. If the Alpena tries to give us just the small screen it won’t even seat our sponsors, investors, cast and crew. In Algona we had to do multiple premiere night screenings (Like 3 shows in two theaters) for nine showings total opening night. We will do the very best with the cards we have. That is the hard part in trying to do a screening in the beautiful small towns we shot in. Too cold likely in November to plan an outside showing. We tried that with LOST HEART and it had to move inside due to winds in the small town there. The films finished first draft is targeting an Oct 1st date. My plan is to deliver that so we can start planning around a solid date. This will give the post team a few more weeks to mix and polish and we can replace the files the week before when we are up there prepping Wild Faith Christmas. We have sponsor friends waiting to get involved but much of that will have to do with how negotiations go next week. The plan is to have official announcements at the end of the month. Just know that we are doing the best we can to bring this film first to the community we filmed in. Screenings for the public will be out of our control but again we will do our best. Next week I’m working to put our theatrical rep in play. The film is looking and sounding great and I’m so proud of everyone’s work. WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP OUR EFFORTS IS TO CALL YOUR THEATER ESPECIALLY IN ALPENA AND REQUEST THE FILM. The previous film shot and released in Algona flooded the theater with calls and show it did for weeks on end.
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA is on home video to rent or buy including the DVD. I think we might work an event screening in theaters into the meeting with the theatrical reps. I know many in Iowa would love to have the film run a weekend/week on the run up to Christmas. The film is selling quite well on the home video market and next year will enjoy even more success when it moves to ad based video on demand. That is free with ads where filmmakers are paid by advertisers. But right now it is available on broadcast and transactional (rent/buy) platforms. This beautiful ‘based on a true events’ has put this film right into the spotlight for the world to watch. In this time of division perhaps this film is just what we need to remember united to stand.
CDI CLASSICS-
This week we’ll start to deliver KNIGHT CHILLS to Twin Engines Global/Deskpop for streaming release. I won’t have dates until they get everything but you all will be the first to know. In additional to Knight Chills, An Ordinary Killer HD DVD is looking like an October release with streaming in December. Dean Teaster’s Ghost Town is already streaming and by popular demand we’ll be starting to sell the Ghost Town in the Sky Collectors DVD that was sold at the actually park. The new CDI merchandise site will be hosted on EBAY and this week started with several overstock items being prepped for sale. CDI will also be doing charity % on every purchase. We will be focusing on military/veterans and animal shelters in need. We’ll have a few bundles also being offered and some free give aways with purchases. We’ll also be listening to all of you on what you might want to see for sale. Some great artwork is being adapted for the re-release of the KNIGHT CHILLS novel which will be followed by the Making of/Script. This is the new poster art for the new Knight Chills release. It was built by our talented Adam Towner who also cut the new HD trailer!
WRAP UP –
I’m going to wrap this up soon as we have a flea market again down the road and I want to go prop hunting. I’ve been finding some great stuff for sure. This coming week will be the finishing of the deck improvements. I want to thank Bart, Towner, Curran, G$ and Shane for helping clean up and stacking the old planks which will be repurposed. To recap-
- Happy Bday to all you wonderful people born on this day especially the CDI folks.
- Thank you to all the efforts already put into the prep of Wild Faith Christmas.
- Start calling the Alpena theaters and requesting the Harsens Island Revenge film.
- Enjoy some of the CDI films you haven’t seen or enjoy your favorites again!
- Get ready to enjoy An Ordinary Killer in HD as well as steaming Knight Chills!
- Have a great weekend!
Yes. I want to give a big congrats to my step bro Shane and his new wife Jordan. We have a nice day celebrating that on Friday. I want to encourage you all to find your own tribe in your corner of the world and create. You’ll be surprised what even two people with a dream can achieve. And that energy can attract other dreamers and more dreamers and soon…you get the picture. I was just an artistic dreamer from what many considered backwoods Michigan. This was way before we had any of the industry we have now. And for folks that say we don’t have any you should have been here in the 1990’s if you want to take about few opportunities. I know several people telling stories as we speak! It is a great time to be alive and telling stories. No excuses. If you want to do it just do it. Until next week my friends!
DJ
Casting, Pre-Production, Premieres and More…
Good morning friends from Germany, India, Brazil, UK and more. Again I love that our weekly circle is international. I want to welcome everyone to Sept 1st and hope the month is a great one for you all. I was walking about the property and enjoying the cool morning that has fall in the air. My college alumni started their American football season will a close win. Our state team the Detroit Lions will start their season next week. I do enjoy a good game on TV while multitasking. I watched a great soccer match yesterday that had me missing my favorite game to play. I am already looking forward to next year but this time off is allowing my body to recoup. I’ve replaced some of that workout with some heavier yard work as I prepare for the new deck build. I approved the paperwork and so materials will be purchased this coming week with the build soon after. It will be nice to have a new improved deck to relax on and enjoy morning coffee and dinners at dusk. I might put a mow on the lawn today or tomorrow. Yesterday I had a nice fire outside and was burning sticks from the storms all day. I also did another harvest on all the herbs growing. I’m thinking of a good crockpot of root veggies if this cool weather remains. Always something to do on the property but I enjoy it between business phone calls.
This past week saw the opening of the account for the new film, the sequel to WILD FAITH. (Wild Faith Christmas) I’m happy to announce that the crew is in place and our cast is getting close. Our director is up in Alpena, MI where we will be shooting and has scouting the final locations. This coming week we’ll lock the shooting script and schedule. Official breakdowns for departments will be issued. We finally got lodging all set and will be working on catering. Along with the mine set the building of an explosives shed also began. It all plays into the story. I’ve started work on bringing ole Ben Lily back and that was a hoot. I did some wardrobe work with Shane for Emmett and again too much fun. I have a tote that I call ‘Ben in a box’ and inside was all of Ben Lily’s gear just waiting for a sequel. It was fun to open it and go through all his wardrobe and props. Our main casting is still looking at reads for two of the children actors. We also brought on some additional sponsors this week that will assist with some of the flights and lodging costs. We so appreciate all the support we get from these businesses who want to be part of something so heartwarming as this film. I LOVE that this is a Christmas story and I think the fans of the first film will too. I will work on updating a few more of the TV series this forthcoming week. I’ve been enjoying that process as well.
ROM COMS MUST DIE our comedy slasher will remain inactive until Jan 2025 so we don’t have to do any end of year work on a film just at the ready. But once this Wild Faith sequel is done we’ll go full on with the Travis Hayward directed film. We are still casting for an actor that has the KEN from KEN & BARBIE appeal. Also a stereotypical country girl actress. If you fit either of those roles feel free to submit something to me.
Harsens Island Revenge – This is the wrap up month for this exciting film. Dennis Therrian has been hard at work on the music. The director Carl Weyant says the VFX should be about done and we’ve been mixing as we go. Once everything is in a final color tweak and mix will be done. We’re about two start looking over the end credits that Anthony Hornus is compiling for review. We’ll take a week or two to review all those to TRY and not miss anyone or misspell anyones name. Sometimes that comes down to the extras handwriting. We are planning a cast, crew, sponsor and investor screening on Nov. 1st in Alpena, MI. We want to have a premiere in Owosso, the book writers hometown and Lansing as well as Detroit near the island itself. A full on theatrical is being planned for the 1st Q of 2025. This film is full of romance and excitement and I think audiences will really love it.
Sept 1st is also the start of the window for some of the fall favorites of the CDI films. LOST HEART also known as BIGFOOT, UFOS and JESUS. BESTSELLER, BEST YEARS GONE (For Race Fans), WILD FAITH, MBF, SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA and The Quest Trilogy! I started a new instagram account for CDI and I’ve been adding CDI and CDI associated movies. To be a true fan you should see them all. And for fans, NEWS! A new CDI Merchandise site will be going up on EBAY managed by Bart Ketner. I want all sales to have a donated % to charities and we’ll have some great items going up on there. Maybe even some one-of-a-kind props that can go to fans. A lot of asking for the old Ghost Town in the Sky collector DVD’s of Dean Teaster’s Ghost Town movie. We have some posters available but might start printing up more plus even 3D printing. Anyone down for a KNIGHT CHILLS, Sir Kallio statue?
Speaking of KNIGHT CHILLS, the ink is dry and a streaming release is coming from our friends at Twin Engines Global/Deskpop. To go with is we’re going to re-release the novel and I’m prepping for the script/making of book. AN ORDINARY KILLER collectors HD DVD is also coming. I’ve held the DVD in my hands and it is a worthy additional to the shelves of CDI and True Crime fans! This year which is not over, will see the re-release of three CDI classics. In 2025 I plan to have the others restored and re-released.
WRAP UP:
I’ve already got my two pages of TO DO’s for the coming week. I have to order checks. I’m getting our software set-up ready for our next film. More deposits and collecting of paperwork. We have some new poster work being done. New trailers being cut including a CDI Highlight Reel which I would love for Jan 1st, 2025! We’re working to get our backup RAID working properly. Additionally premiere work for Harsens Island Revenge needs to be set. A theatrical poster for the premieres also should be done this week. I’m going to check on that this afternoon. The list keeps growing and we keep checking things off and once in a while you look back and notice how far you’ve come. There will come a day of rest but while you still have ambition and dreams, keep going!
I look forward to speaking with you all next week!
Coffee Cheers, DJ
PS: Having issues with pics so there will not be any this week.
Dare to LIVE! Read, Write, Paint, Draw, Laugh!
Hazelnut coffee cheers! I’m fresh back from the flea market where I walked away only with a few trinkets. We went early because of pending rain. We’ve had quite a bit the last two days but at least today cooler weather and a breeze came with it. This week we ended our outdoor soccer season. In our play off match we lost 2-1 in the last few minutes. It was a great game that could have gone either way and a great season. I will miss my Thursday workout on the field. It really pushes me to the max and I love it. I’m in strong running shape and I credit that to this sport that I love. The best part is playing with my brother and friends. I love the physicality of it all smashing into other players fighting for space and possession of the ball. I’m already looking forward to the next outdoor season.
The heat has been more taxing due to the sizable ‘Ben Lily’ beard I’m sporting. In two months and change I’ll be stepping back into that role from WILD FAITH in our sequel. Our crew is about set minus one or two individuals. Our cast is growing as we announced a few more actors this past week. We just cast another co-star this weekend and we’ll be announcing them soon. The actor was pretty touched by getting the role. I remember the joy of getting those first couple roles. I don’t take it for granted but I’ve grown to a point of confidence that I don’t ride the highs or lows when it comes to casting. I’m a believer that the right roles will happen but you still have to do your own part.
We have been adding sponsors onto the WILD FAITH CHRISTMAS project and we’re so appreciative to all of them. I distributed all our business paperwork and the first returned sets of them are coming in. I’ll be opening the bank account this week and getting things rolling. Again we’re so appreciative to all the investors on these stories. Art is a special investment and often there is better ways to make bigger returns faster but the payoff in being part of a story can be priceless. This story has such beautiful themes and moments and will be a worthy follow up to the original. This has led to me doing a 2024 polish on the eight shows in the TV series. I’m working on show #3 and it is so wonderful to revisit this season one of shows. Not sure how I feel about carrying this beard for another year if the series launches but I’ll cross that bridge later.
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA is getting some high profile play on some of the platforms. We were looking at something to watch on Amazon Prime and there it was right up there with the studio films. I’m looking forward to a discussion on the holiday push for this film. It is such a beautiful true story and an important piece of history.
Harsens Island Revenge is full speed ahead on music and I’ll be getting a full update this week. We’re closing in on plans for a premiere in November in Alpena, MI and we’ll do a few other premieres also. Looking at Owosso, Lansing and Detroit near Harsens Island itself. After we’ll be looking at a full 2025 theatrical run followed by home video. We’ll be having a sit down planning meeting on this very soon. I’m in hopes we’ll have a theatrical poster soon as well.
Re-mastered and re-released versions of Dean Teaster’s Ghost Town, An Ordinary Killer and Knight Chills are planned. The first above is already released to TUBI. AOK and Knight Chills will be releasing info soon but Knight Chills can be purchased on Blu Ray and AOK will soon be releasing the special HD DVD. NEW poster art for Knight Chills streaming and for the Making of book and script is underway. AOK will be getting a new trailer and we’re still doing some tests on the remaining classic CDI films.
We still have some casting underway for ROM COMS MUST DIE which will film the first of the year. We are going to be tweaking the schedule in the coming weeks and that will give us our shoot dates as well. 2025 sequels also being discussed include a KNIGHT CHILLS 2, IN THE WOODS (Now on Blu Ray!) sequel and a long form feature of SMOKE & MIRRORS, a Victorian comedic who done it. Several other projects are working on development including GOTCH and SPIRIT LAKE MASSACRE and another project that we’ve not released any info on yet.
WRAP UP:
I will look forward to some script writing over the winter months. I recently did a small harvest of hops which the inchworms got into and I let them because the vines have to come down for the new deck. I’ve been harvesting tea herbs on a regular basis and drying them. I’ve been enjoying the variety of veggies as of late including eggplant which I really like. I might get outside here in a bit and do some more organizing on the property to get ready for the new deck. I’ve decided to re-purpose the old deck and put my handy man skills to the test. I might rebuild the compost bin and try my hand at a few planters. As it cools I’ll be doing some more log splitting and might put a polish on ye ole wood stove. I’m thinking of having a chimney sweep also done to it. I love when the wood stove starts crackling.
I will be unpacking my ‘Ben Lily’ garments soon and breaking in my trapper boots again. I will look to see what needs improvements upon. I know from speaking with Hester (Melissa Anschutz) she might have to rebuild some of her outfit as part of her outfit is buried in storage. I know Shane Hagedorn who plays Emmett, is looking at hats but I love my old Ben Lily hat. (Thank you Austin Two Feathers) We’ve been centralizing all our breakdown sheets and taking inventory. I’ll also be bringing down some of the craft service stuff and seeing if that can live with our hospitality and health department head.
I wanted to say a little prayer for our friend and my co-star (Lost Heart, Best Years Gone) Victoria Jackson, SNL alumni who announced that she has a cancerous tumor on her windpipe that she cannot have operated on. She will be taking some medication to slow the disease but how awful. I’ve been much love being given but also some hate do to her politics. As an artist and as a company we’ve tried to be inclusive to all as artists. An individuals priorities and what box they check doesn’t matter. We are all flawed and have hopes, fears, dreams and can all be led to a more positive place but good storytelling. We have folks that would possible be opposite sides of an issue stand shoulder to shoulder to help create a story. I’m proud of that. As we get closer to November elections I hope that people will try to be kind to one another. I’m going to keep doing what I do despite who wins. The sun will still come up. The moon will still sit in the night sky. I would never want to be a politician. Would you? With everything they put those people through. Every misstep or mis-communication thrown up in your face. Every bone in your closet used to club you with. I’ll stay with being a storyteller. But back to Victoria, my best wishes for healing and comfort. Also for my buddy Ronnie Lee’s loved one recovering as well.
With the context of people I know passing away as of recent it really gives me courage to tackle the difficult tasks. In the end we all rest and all this day-to-day stuff means nothing. Again I say, write that book. Start that small business. Get up on stage and sing. Read. Paint. Draw. Laugh. Live. Celebrating 25 years plus with some of our art is humbling. In another 25 years (If lucky enough) how old will I be? My beloved dogs I love and cherish now will be a memory on a wall. How many more family, friends and loved ones will have gone quiet in that peaceful rest. Will my body allow me to run or kick a soccer ball still? I had to stop for a moment and compose myself. I wasn’t trying to make this a sad post I swear. It is just a reality and a plea to not poison your joy with doubt, fear and insecurities. I’m going to call this good for the week because I allowed it to get a little heavy. But I love what I do and who I get to do it with. I love the journey I’ve had, I’m on and the mystery of where it might lead. I appreciate that I have all of you from around this incredible world to share these thoughts with. Until next week!
DJ
Focus and Persistence While Working Your Personal Puzzle
Hazelnut Coffee Cheers! A happy Sunday to you all out there. It is a warm yet rainy day in the Michigan. I got the lawn mowed and to kick off May did several things in the yard. The life is springing up everywhere for Spring! Dandelions are everywhere and a powerful plant they are indeed. Don’t poison them or any of the plants unless using vinegar or something natural. Everything eats something and that food chain can be affected including beloved pets. Dandelion is a powerful plant that is edible. It has many powerful compounds in it and can be made into several things medicinal or enjoyable. Culinary herbs add taste to food but they too possess many powerful compounds and that has been my study for many years. But at 50 years old I made the choice to focus my studies even more. A good many of the first 50 years were learning to be a warrior and now I’m focusing on being a healer. I maintain my warrior practice to unify and keep mind, body and spirit in flow with one another. I’m happy to say that on the soccer grid we’ve started our season. A beautiful day whereas everyone was happy to be out doing what we love. My running was in good shape but early second half my legs felt a tad heavy. The last week days have been great as my whole body is tight. You get such a complete workout with soccer because of all the directional changes. Our goalkeeper almost broke a finger but after an X ray it was just a bad sprain. At the end of the day it is a battle with rules. I’m already excited for next Thursday to battle once again.
I also had a great dad day whereas we went out to MSU (Michigan State University) our alumni school to look at discarded items for sale. After a few estate and garage sales and lunch. I often find wardrobe and prop pieces for the movies and often discover classic movies and books at a great price. I even occasionally find our own movies out there and that always makes me smile. The balance of the week was desk work on the films. I’m finishing up a script that might get a green light on funding soon versus later. That is the real trick any filmmaker will tell you. It is about budgets and momentum. But also it is not always about just sales it is collections during a certain quarter. We want strong returns to help us fund new endeavors. I usually distribute funds every two quarters to allow it to build up slightly because it is a lot of check writing. I have new checks coming in this week and we’ll look to process those over the next couple weeks. Before these distributions I like to give update reports to our backers. Again our business is hard because there is often riskier but better places to put your money to get bigger or faster returns. But faceless stocks that rise or fall or even bottom out don’t match the beauty of a film that can bring a story to life. That story could keep something from disappearing or bring a new literary classic to life. I’ve been enjoying the reading of Sherlock Holmes myself. What an iconic character.
We’ve also been working on funding several upcoming projects. We still have a ways to go with HOT ROD LOVE which lost its place in the line last year to Harsens Island Revenge which funded itself faster. We could end up in that situation again this year pending some developments in the next few weeks. HOT ROD LOVE might turn that corner and complete funding but we have another project that could jump in front of it. We also have several projects gaining momentum to shoot next year and so we’ll see what is the fastest horses in the race. Speaking of that what an exciting Kentucky Derby yesterday!
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA – This film had a strong independent push by us on the theatrical scene. Now we’re just starting to roll into the home video. DVD and streaming is moving well and just off the DVD sales we’ve flown past our marketing costs. In the future our streaming revenue will kick in and we’ve got a good TV license ahead of us for this Summertime. The momentum from all these sales could be useful now but with so many platform and different billing cycles it all comes in at different quarters. We just had another great screening at the International Christian Film Festival in Orlando FL where the film was recognized with nominations for Best Actress Cassie Dean, Best Supporting Actor Shane Hagedorn and Best Score by Dennis Therrian. The SVP executive there said the movie played to a great buzz and was well received. This will push additional people to seek out of story. I think we’ll be creating a new version of the final film to do some theatrical event showing this forthcoming Christmas. This film is showing the potential for a long and strong run and perhaps cement itself as a classic of Christmas viewing. It is also just a Great War time drama to be enjoyed at any time of the year. If you haven’t seen it I encourage you to do so and if you have seen it – enjoy it again.
Harsens Island Revenge – The film officially was picture locked and music, dialog and sound design work has begun. We even watched some exciting first draft music for a few scenes. Some early teaser poster work is now underway and scenes for the film trailer have been pulled and just need to be edited together. This story adapted from Karl Manke‘s book of the same name is just wonderful. It has such a great message to it. Also taken from a great piece of history in our own state. I think this film will be unique as all CDI films are and should take audiences on an exciting journey. I was just so moved by all the performances and the hard work of all our artists. IF you want to see another film made by CDI, directed by Shane Hagedorn -from a Karl Manke book HOPE FROM HEAVEN watch BEST YEARS GONE here: https://youtu.be/U4lxhZ2CQkc?si=eI9uDVwgC50UVoln
Mother’s Day is approaching and we might suggest LOST HEART or The Quest Trilogy (Forty Nights, Chasing the Star and The Christ Slayer) or even THE PATCHWORK GIRL OF OZ.
Memorial Day is approaching and several of our films deal with military themes such as MAN’S BEST FRIEND, WILD FAITH, WICKED SPRING or FOR THE LOVE OF CATCH.
Soon I’m happy to announce that The Red, White and Blue Project a non-profit that raises money for veterans and their families will be raising money by offering a new HD DVD of AN ORDINARY KILLER thanks to Two Average Joes a podcast that works on true crime cases. Sales will directly benefit military family needs and bring this film back out in a remastered version for a good cause. We might also explore other ways to use the film to raise money for veteran affairs but to begin with this DVD will be something you will not want to miss.
The entire CDI Classic Collection is undergoing test remastering to try and bring you the best versions of these films. We have technology available to us now that was unheard of all those years ago. KNIGHT CHILLS was already remastered and released on Blu Ray. BUY HERE: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJ5WBSZR?ref_=cm_sw_r_mwn_dp_S8VVQGSK0SGEMD085ZGJ&language=en_US&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR1ezSQmyVp55OyHIm-Wg6SxYlI1McptQ-3jPPjefpWB5ptMEBLYVAUr-7U_aem_AQRqoW18ZuONMJ7L8KTJ9uSR1DzxalcJZaVSVso_GL2Kz1oQqBXq2Hh5BOOZXRZFfyU4frqOqQWVoYOo5SCkZf6P
We are working to cut a new trailer and some fresh poster art for a streaming release this Fall! Beware as I think I hear Sir Kallio coming! To the land of shadows I will ride…
So please have some patience as we try to figure out the best way to move these films into the HD realm. GHOST TOWN our Smoky Mountain western is also being prepped to return to the marketplace. A new trailer is cut and soon we’ll start making some announcements about this exciting story. Being that the film is returning after 15 years is creating a lot of work on my end but I keep telling myself it will be worth it in the end. I have more meetings over it this week. A new generation will enjoy this powerful story. As we prepare this new release campaign enjoy this music video from the very talent Paul Proios. WATCH HERE: https://youtu.be/ixEmKwLwg1U?si=LhV3JYMCbGioijdf
WRAP UP:
I’m rolling with the momentum and while I have things I want to happen faster I have to keep that patience state-of-mind as I flow. Often it would be easier to do nothing in certain situations but the payoff for taking action is often greater. Trying to do things that others would not or could not because of the numerous steps. I’m grateful to have a tribe of artists who are all willing to work towards the same goals. I’m going to keep working at our goals daily and because of the consistent work things get done. Every project is thousands of steps. A 5000 piece-puzzle plus that requires focus and persistence. Keep working on your own personal puzzles. Make the time to step away and breath in life and a good dose of nature. When you sit back down you just might find your focus sharper and your clarity better. Thank you all for spending a few moments with me and I hope within these words are something that will inspire or help you on your own path. Until next week. Be good to one another!
DJ
POSITIVE UPDATES, PRODUCTIVE PONDERINGS and POWERFUL PODCASTS
(The Journey South)
Coffee Cheers! I’m sitting down with all of you on a Monday versus Sunday due to a trip to Roanoke, VA. A charity test screening was happening for a western film WAS ONCE A HERO. We met the writing/producer Dan Searles when we were at The Wild Bunch Film Fest in Wilcox, AZ with WILD FAITH. I was invited as a VIP guest with Shane Hagedorn who has a powerful supporting role in the film. I got to met and visit with many great folks from this film family and it truly is a family with many working on the film. I got to support some other friends and fellow actors like Darby Hinton who was the lead, Robert Carradine, John Carter Cash and Rebecca Holden. As I said, I got to meet some wonderful folks including Mary Badham who took a break from her Broadway schedule to attend. She was once the youngest nominee for a supporting actress Academy Award for playing ‘Scout’ in To Kill A Mockingbird which now I’m going to rewatch.
(Stepping back in time)
We had several great meals and attended a wonderful event to benefit the non-profit Healing Strides. They use horses in their healing process. We stayed in a beautiful pre-Civil War home that had been added onto in the early 1900’s and has since been modernized without looking like it is. I LOVED the spring water both to drink and shower in. It was so beautiful as the house sits amongst pecan trees set against rolling hills. We also got to hit a few farm/craft markets and explored the historic town. Such wonderful history and tradition and the mountains can be truly so very rejuvenating. We have some associations in the works and this was a great step beyond the zoom calls to really get to know folks.
Other CDI Updates-
AN ORDINARY KILLER – This past CDI film is getting a new life as a fundraising tool for another non-profit that benefits military families. A good fit since the lead detective was a veteran dealing with his own issues while trying to solve a case. The ‘based on a true event’ film has new facts coming to life due to the efforts of real detectives that work on cold cases. Their podcast Two Average Joes just released a special presentation of our making of that film brought current in preparation for a re-release of the film to select avenues. Watch here and follow with interest all the new facts coming to life! WATCH HERE: https://youtu.be/JAEjJFQ77N0?si=ZlyjgZVkkk-JjiL_
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA – This amazing piece of history preserved in this motion picture continues its march into new circles of distribution. In a few months the film will launch onto UP FAMILY & FAITH TV . The film continues its release on transactional streaming platforms like Amazon, Googleplay, iTunes and more. DVD sales are proving that the medium is not dead and actually growing as people once again realize that value of ownership in physical media.
(In Studio working on Harsens Island Revenge)
Harsens Island Revenge – We had a watch last week on the second pass of the film with the new pickup footage added in and it was powerful. The voice over was dropped in and the WW1 footage just added a wonderful layer. EPIC! The 61 VFX shots are being added in and we are looking to have a locked picture with completed VFX next week. We had a great in-studio meeting over sound design and music. That will be another great phase that might include some grilling:) Our director Carl is back on schedule releasing some of the screen capture portraits. JOIN our Facebook page and don’t miss any of the updates. Like the Making of- just released. Edited by our wonderful Adam Towner! WATCH HERE: https://youtu.be/wvvof3U4Sss?si=GkHLHBgN6DQ0gmXh
The CDI CLASSIC COLLECTION– From KNIGHT CHILLS, CDI’s 1st feature to GHOST TOWN, our 6th feature and the last of the CDI Classic Collection. All the films are being prepped to re-enter the market. This includes literary, new streaming HD, blu-ray, retrospective interviews and more. The first 6 features make up the classic era of CDI when we were just starting up and learning our craft. We’ve been doing test runs of the new HD versions of the films and I can say it is quite amazing. Kudos to the technology that is giving us this gift. The 1080 version of Knight Chills is beautiful but 2k, 4k? AMAZING….We already discussed AN ORDINARY KILLER and the new releases will include theatrical for some of them if not all of them. WHY? Because we can;)
WRAP UP: Again this weekend I was reminded how blessed I am to be doing what I love. To be working and laughing with such talented and passionate people. Lining up the business ($) on a project is always a chore but the resulting art always makes it worth it. I’m motivated to get back after it and seal up the deal on our next film HOT ROD LOVE and a series of projects working to be able to film next year. I’ve got to keep moving pieces on the chess board but we have a great team working towards our goals. I’m looking forward to new concept art on one project and some meetings on others. I’m excited about the warmth. We left in cold rain that lasted until we were 30 min from our destination and arrived to sunshine and warmth. Now it feels like we brought it back with us. I’m eager to start doing some outdoor stuff as well. My first mowing might be at hand and that is always rewarding. I’m going to be planting some fresh clover and already we have things budding. I’m ready for soccer season and outside meetings. Until we chat again next week on our regular day of Sunday, keep dreaming. Keep doing little things to move closer to your goals. In the meantime, be good to one another!
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
An ‘Official Wrap’ on Harsens Island Revenge and More Updates!
Good morning new readers from Portugal, India, Philippines, Denmark and the UK. Maybe my Indian friends can help me – what is the S. Indian coffee secret? I had that brought to my room every morning in India when filming KARMA. I want to seek it out here and see if I can find some. Yes. It rivals my hazelnut coffee I’m so fond of. So this morning I am well rested but yesterday eve I was pretty exhausted. Why?
For several weeks I’ve been prepping for what would be about 3 min on the screen but it was worth it. After watch the first cut of the film we knew we needed the close up shoots of our pilot and lead attacking some ‘Purple Gang’ property. The 1927 plane was far from Alpena where we filmed and so we needed close ups to match with our other footage of the flight. Movie magic in full effect starting at noon on Friday had us capturing our sequence and establishing shot of the plane that will be seen outside the hanger scene we shot at the Alpena Air Force base. Our crew had to travel in a snow storm but all arrived safe and we had such generous hosts that helped us get what we needed in a 2.5 hour period.
After the plane shoot it was traveling downstate to some beautiful property belonging to our transport captain Dane DeFord. This was the sit for our opening scene to the entire movie. It takes place in WW1 whereas a group of German soldiers are awaiting mechanics to come fix their tank. When I wrote the scene I always envisioned a cold miserable day where the poor soldiers are trying to stay warm. Our film’s hero is sent to deal with these Germans in hopes of capturing a tank. Let’s just say that after several temps of 60’s+ degrees that threatened to give us a very different day we ended up getting exactly what we wanted! Beautiful falling snow that just made the scene so cinematic.
These snowy conditions look great on camera but are hard on cast and crews. But with our scaled down team we got the perfect scene. And we had such a great time all together filming it. Great re-enactors to bring our German’s to life with Mark E. Holmes (Silent Night in Algona) playing our lead German. Mark Balko and his Pepsi team really came through with catering and craft services. Thank you Mangos from Alpena! We had campfires going in the woods and we were storytelling again. The magic of it all and after weeks of hard work it was all worth it.
I want to thank everyone involved. GW Burns our production designer was in from Florida and got a wake up call on Michigan snow. After nine hours trucking through heavy snow I was beat at midnight when I finally started my trek home. I had 4 deer run in front of me, 1 beside my car racing me and 1 huge buck who almost came in front of me but decided against it. I see why Dane who likes to hunt lives there, deer city. I had a restless night because my body felt beat up like after a soccer game and I drank too much coffee later at night. My furry son Finn had been under the weather with upset stomach and was restless and so that night gave me little sleep.
Up and more coffee before off to the sound studio with David Reardon our young lead. With Dennis Therrian and our director Carl we got all our narration. I even laid down a line of two for Axel on the phone in the film. A stop to drop off our rented US “doughboy” uniform and I was home. My Finn was doing better and last night was a peaceful sleep. Again none of this is easy and at CDI we work hard. There is no half ass here as my dad would say. So we need to enact a refund on one hotel in Jackson that did not live up to its pictures and a few expenses to report but the film is now an official WRAP. All the pieces of the puzzle are complete. We’ll have a few weeks to tweak and add these shots into the film but soon it will be locked and music and sound design will start. Adam Towner should be finishing up the Behind the Scenes and we are now working on a theatrical poster and first trailer to likely release end of April.
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA– Curran Jacobs is going to be doing a meet-n-greet in Algona and the film is an official selection at the upcoming ICFF. We have our own Cassie Dean, Shane Hagedorn and Dennis Therrian up for honors. The film will start playing on UP FAMILY & FAITH this Summer which is exciting. The DVD’s are still selling and streaming is giving many a peek at the film.
THE QUEST TRILOGY – With Easter right around the corner I’m asking our fans to enjoy a watch of our biblical three films. It is a good time to stop and reflect on family and life. TRAILER HERE: https://youtu.be/HOiLSFiL9es?si=LfwGuUoncew5UktH
HOT ROD LOVE – I just did a fresh read on our Summer film HOT ROD LOVE. We picked up another investment piece this week bringing us to about 35% financed and climbing. With this pick up shoot in the rearview mirror I can devote even more energy to the next film. So starting Monday more sponsor and investor talks. We want to get the business behind us so we can focus on the creative.
Additional Development-
We also have funding talks starting up on SPIRIT LAKE MASSACRE and GOTCH. I’m looking forward to a read on the updated Gotch script end of next week. I’m also happy to say that the Victorian/Steampunk script I was working on is finished and I’m extremely happy with the final story. I’ll send that around to a few of the producers this week to take a read. We’ve also been doing some organizing and updating of the quality of some of the older CDI films by converting them to HD. I’m going to be doing some checking on those this week and it will be fun to watch in the new vivid form.
I’m not going to go much further with updates as I like to get things complete before reporting on them. But I know people are anxious and want to know what is next so I try to keep you all updated. When GW Burns was in town I had him snap a few new headshots for the new agent so I’ll be looking into those. I’m going to try and recharge a bit before hitting it hard again starting on Monday! I hope each and every one of you have a great week. I know the Capital City Film Festival mixer will be coming up. We as a company usually try to participate and support the kick off. Until we speak again next week, be good to one another!
DJ
A Sunny ‘Spring-Like Day’ Recap
(Easter is coming as is Springtime)
Good morning! So here in Michigan the weather has been quite the rollercoaster with a porch-sitting warm day followed by a bitter stormy couple days and now we are moving back to the 60’s in February. Yesterday was a multiple mile nature hike at a park called Sleepy Hallow but luckily no headless horseman was enter counter. That was a Washington Irving reference for those not knowing. I want to welcome all the readers from various countries including one I’ve never seen Brunei. I need to research that to find out more about it. Signs of Spring are everywhere from robins to budding plants and trees. I’ll take the shorter winter but I do worry about too much change. But we’ll adapt to it and more on.
The cold days were put to use with a lot of desk work. One of my proud accomplishments was the finishing of a first draft on a new/old script. I had started a script years ago and after doing a short based upon it (Smoke & Mirrors) I deconstructed it and did a page one rewrite. The result is a unique film script that is set in that Victorian time period in the tradition of KNIVES OUT or CLUE. It has a touch of that STEAMPUNK flavor to it as well. This is looking to film next winter season if everything plays out right. I will know more in the coming months. But I was very happy with the draft and now I’m polishing. Adding to the description and working dialog. I’ve been reading Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes stories also as an inspiration. It helps me get into the time period, the world and the language. This is all based on some feedback from our distributor and it will make a great little film.
Tax work for the movie’s is almost to a conclusion. Once I get all that paid out it will be moving to prepping for more investor payouts once second quarter is received and processed. We are going to be working to streamline some of that business this year as we are growing and growing. We’ve been steadily working on putting funds in line on our Summer film HOT ROD LOVE. We took another couple steps towards our goal this past week. Still many irons in the fire and folks interested to speak with. We will also be going to look at the track in the coming weeks. I just want to get a little further down the road on funding.
And a bit more development-
Developing film SPIRIT LAKE MASSACRE will be announcing its intent this week in PR. We’ve attached Iowa local Jim Brockhohn to work with our team. He’ll be assisting with our funding meetings and locations once we are moving forward. We have a few forthcoming meetings and with the support of some good folks we’ll be telling this story. Staying on the subject of development and Iowa, a script is being polished on the life of Frank Gotch, a turn of the century Catch-Can wrestling champion. Curran Jacobs is working the script based off the book and 1st draft script by Mike Chapman.
Post Production work-
This past week also ended with Shane Hagedorn and I doing a little video for the “behind the scenes” of Harsens Island Revenge. I talked script and he talked location since the actual island is quite modern and Alpena possesses many period buildings in their original state right down to the tables in the lodge. Adam Towner has been working on this and we’ll get to see a work in progress on Weds of this coming week. We’ll also be watching the first cut of the film by Carl Weyant fresh back from Brazil and excited to show his hard work. It will be everything save the opening WW1 scene which we’ve been prepping to shoot later this month. We will also be meeting Weds with Dennis Therrian to discuss the score and sound design. I love that part of the process.
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA is continuing to march deeper into home video release territory. We are working to expand our foreign sales for this powerful story. I can’t say enough how much all the positive feedback has meant to us all as artists. The film will be at the International Christian Film Festival coming up and we’ll see if it gets any further recognition from our peers but the audience reaction is what means the most to us.
I’ve been thrilled to see WATCH PARTIES going up for THE QUEST TRILOGY our biblical three films as we head towards Easter. Forty Nights, Chasing the Star and The Christ Slayer keep growing in audiences views. Audiences are finally realizing that the films interconnect as a trilogy. People who watched the 2nd film first became highly curious of “who was that old man at the end?” “what happens to the boy”….WATCH THEM IN ORDER and all will be revealed and more. Encourage TV and several platforms have the films for you to watch.
The CDI Library – without going into detail which I’ve done in previous blogs, I’ve been working hard to prepare some of the older films for a new life going forward. A new theatrical trailer for Ghost Town will be forthcoming and we’ll be looking at theaters to run the film in likely this fall. A new Knight Chills trailer will be cut from the new remastered HD footage after mister Towner gets down with the “making of” he’s working on. NEW “From Venus” artwork is underway for a new Blu Ray release package being put together. Any day now IN THE WOODS will get a Blu Ray release date and I’ll be heading to Kalamazoo for a special theatrical release. An Ordinary Killer is also working on some artwork for new physical media and streaming releases likely following a theatrical run. I’ve been going through boxes trying to dig up more materials but it takes time. I need to find a merchandise manager who is fluent in one of these online sales sites and can fulfill. We have some great merchandise and such we just need to work on our delivery system. Literary and Music is also on that long list of mine.
(Some of the many faces of DJ Perry)
WRAP UP: The sun is shining and I’ve got a list of things I want to get done today. I’ll be back at it hard tomorrow morning. I hope that the coming of Spring is awakening some new motivation in all of you. Write. Paint. Sculpt. Perform. Or do that business needed to elevate your craft from hobby to your bread and butter. I’m very pleased with how 2024 has shared up thus far. I’m focusing on my health and happiness which balances with my goals at hand. Soccer season is right around the corner and I’m really looking forward to that. The idea of shooting a 70’s drag racing film this Summer with my friends excites me and motivates me to have another productive week. Once I finish this script I’m polishing I think I’ll keep my writing habit going although maybe from the patio in the sunshine. I’ve got a few other partially done passion project scripts I want to finish. The flea markets will soon be starting which I love seeking props at for the films. I’m beyond happy with the projects and endeavors. I love balancing the work with my nature endeavors and we’ll be getting the garden beds going. My new stick eater works well creating some nice mulch. The fruit harvest will be strong this year I’m sure. I’ll be moving some of the older logs towards the processing area where axes do swing. I’ve got some aging oak which will move into the back yard to be used to decorate until it dries enough to split. The chickens are giving eggs again and even now I smell our 4H bacon. Bacon and eggs are a good way to start the day…and coffee:) hazelnut cheers my friends, hazelnut cheers. It makes me think we went to an estate sale where they had a brand new coffee bean roaster for sale only $12,000 – DOH! I’ll keep buying for now. Until next week be good to one another!
DJ
Birthdays, Reunions, Releases and More…
(Happy Birthday Tony!)
Hazelnut cheers my friends! Welcome to our readers worldwide including new readers from Argentina, Kenya, Ireland and India. I love that our circle is wide. We may be from different places where the lines on a map are drawn differently and various languages may be spoke BUT we all have those same artistic calls. I’ve had a very artistic filled week with a good dash of business. Michigan got another cold snap but unseasonably warm weather is coming next week. I want to also give a BIG shout out to two of my generals in getting things done. Our own Tony Hornus and Shane Hagedorn, both masterful talent on both sides of the camera both were born on this day. So a HUGE happy birthday to them both. Shane is getting a well earned few days of rest in the sunshine state of Florida including a visit with GW Burns, our new CDI production designer. Some good talks over our next film endeavor will no doubt be happening. Dennis Therrian is excited to watch the cut of Harsens Island Revenge and start bouncing music bed ideas off our director Carl Weyant. Carl should have gotten back from Brazil on Friday and I’m looking forward to connecting with him this week. Where to start on my update or maybe this just random format fits the energy.
(BIG 50 Happy Bday to Shane Hagedorn)
Lots happening-
(Me, Stuart MacDonald, Lynn Drzick and Jim Greulich)
OLD SCHOOL – I’ve spoke several times about my humble beginnings in the film world. I struggled for many years to the point of many saying I should let go of my pipe dream. Persistence is a key in this business and without you will likely fail. Patience is another key and is hard for many to grasp. It is a lesson in discipline. My first feature film was a creature feature called IN THE WOODS. I starred as rookie firefighter Alex Kerwood. It is the manifestation of some young hungry artists forcing their way into the industry. We wanted to just get into the game and that we did. The film was not without flaws as inexperience and budgetary restraints were met with passion and enthusiasm. The film was released heavily into the US market and into many countries around the world. It put us on the map so to speak. The film had critics but also fans. I recall the Adrian MI the film playing in conjunction with The Haunting a once major Halloween attraction. The town was plastered with IN THE WOODS on fliers at McDonalds, billboards, news, radio and more. I remember when the line to get signed autographs was 400 strong. That showed the power of the medium. Hard-core horror fans had some issues because the film flew against the formula of the time. Annoying victims, cool villain and when and how would they die. This was a bit more of a soap opera with firefighter drama and ADD in monsters. The two factors that played heavily maybe not seen at that time was- women like scary films too but they like character development. Women also like firefighters. So the positive fans of the film tilted heavily with the lady-folk. While men wanted their “boobs and blood” women seemed to like the blood too but could use a dose of men in uniform. The fans were there then and now 25 years later we’re giving them a new polished up version plus a new director’s cut with added footage and more streamline editing. I traveled to Kalamazoo where we filmed on Friday and we saw the new cut and did commentary for the blu-ray that will feature both films. A new release campaign is rolling out this year with BluRay, DVD, VHS (Yes), streaming, new book releases (which I will list) and even soundtrack and toys. A great reunion with director/writer Lynn Drzick, Stuart MacDonald (Al Fargo), Jim Greulich (Wayne Higley) and me (Alex Kerwood). After the fresh watch and commentary we had several hours by the fire discussing plot points for the planned sequel. Yes. IN THE WOODS 2 is in active development. We all agreed to go back into the woods again to have round 2 against the creatures who will also be getting upgrades. The plot points and story threads are pretty exciting. It will be fun to bring these characters back to the screen. It was fun even doing a bit of Alex Kerwood audio work for the new release. We did try to launch a sequel a few years after the first film but it was too soon. We even did a teaser trailer years ago that I’ll share but this new film will be one for the books. The chemistry was there when we sat around the fire playing out some scenes in character – the magic was back.
So lets see how you can get ready for the new release and new sequel.
The Making of IN THE WOODS– a great guide and inspiration for young filmmakers- https://www.amazon.com/Making-Woods-Lynn-Drzick/dp/B0BXMTJS9C/?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=EIFE0&content-id=amzn1.sym.d0ebfbb2-6761-494f-8e2f-95743b37c35c%3Aamzn1.symc.50e00d6c-ec8b-42ef-bb15-298531ab4497&pf_rd_p=d0ebfbb2-6761-494f-8e2f-95743b37c35c&pf_rd_r=F4JNGGVESM0FJA761F4V&pd_rd_wg=tBSKE&pd_rd_r=ed96e755-a343-4af2-9fe4-85ea6b0837e7&ref_=pd_gw_ci_mcx_mr_hp_atf_m
The reissue of the IN THE WOODS Novelization by Nancy Gideon giving lots of back ground info- https://www.amazon.com/Woods-Nancy-Gideon-ebook/dp/B00SEKIHYE/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3HFATMYW8WKF&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.QiukYlBgrJ9AF41sf-Su3_63yJLoZiXgXSz_dB5yDKc.Z0HnzSRNumwrvQu5MidJPiDYLfTiRyaJ-UcoU9VNQeE&dib_tag=se&keywords=In+the+Woods+novelization+by+Nancy+Gideon&qid=1708267999&sprefix=in+the+woods+novelization+by+nancy+gideon%2Caps%2C91&sr=8-1
My big-budget sword and sorcery movie script prequel that tells the Origins of the Beasts titled PanDEMONium! – https://www.amazon.com/panDEMONium-Woods-Origin-DJ-Perry/dp/B0CV8F73D6/?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=EIFE0&content-id=amzn1.sym.d0ebfbb2-6761-494f-8e2f-95743b37c35c%3Aamzn1.symc.50e00d6c-ec8b-42ef-bb15-298531ab4497&pf_rd_p=d0ebfbb2-6761-494f-8e2f-95743b37c35c&pf_rd_r=F4JNGGVESM0FJA761F4V&pd_rd_wg=tBSKE&pd_rd_r=ed96e755-a343-4af2-9fe4-85ea6b0837e7&ref_=pd_gw_ci_mcx_mr_hp_atf_m
This will get you up to speed before the major release on the 25th Anniversary Blu Ray!
HERE is the old sequel trailer for many years ago- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WVDnyNGY6mE&feature=youtu.be
CDI’s KNIGHT CHILLS is getting the Remastered treatment with the Blu-Ray for sale now HERE – https://www.amazon.com/Knight-Chills-Tim-Jeffrey/dp/B0CJ5WBSZR/ref=asc_df_B0CJ5WBSZR/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=680424942453&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=14483042912564000939&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9017262&hvtargid=pla-2260223998064&psc=1&mcid=08fc0b8d3ebc3af99b43436fce7530fa&gad_source=1
The BluRay is full of great extras and we’re working to set up the HD streaming on some select horror film streaming sites. Also the book and script will get the literary release treatment very soon. It’s in the works! A sequel has been talked about for years and we have various scripts and have interviewed many filmmaker teams. We’re still working to get that just right but in the meantime we’ll introduce a new generation to Sir Kallio, Dark Knight of the Red Rose.
(Terence Knox, Terry Jernigan and Dan Haggerty in ‘An Ordinary Killer’)
MORE OLD SCHOOL:
CDI’s Second film FROM VENUS has some Tom Miller (Knight Chills) artwork underway and we’re discussing the Blu Ray deal. FIGURE IN THE FOREST & HEAVEN’S NEIGHBORS will eventually get the HD treatment and we’ll look to make those available. We have a DVD double feature which we’ll work to make more available. The genre films are a touch easier to set up right now.
AN ORDINARY KILLER and GHOST TOWN – Our true story crime drama and Smoky Mt western are also getting a planned new release campaign. These two films will start with a planned theatrical release. Both will be getting a new remastered theatrical DCP film and a Blu Ray release. The collector’s edition DVD from the Ghost Town in the Sky theme park will also become available perhaps at the theaters concession that plays the film. Lotta ground work to do but technical-wise it’s all underway including a new theatrical trailer for Ghost Town. These two films will likely do a theatrical release around where they were filmed to start with. But CDI’s theatrical division is getting stronger in the wake of SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA.
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA just played another theater in Cherokee, Iowa and we’ll keep processing requests of folks wanting to watch on the big screen. Meanwhile I’m happy to announce that people who subscribe to Up Family & Faith will be able to watch our WW2 drama starting July 1st and it will run there for a year. It’s still available to rent on many platforms at will. Thank you to those who are watching and referring it to friends and family. The DVD’s are selling well also and so again thank you. Some of the proceeds from sales are directly helping the two participating museums in Algona.
As Easter approaches THE QUEST TRILOGY is seeing a good draw. This trilogy of stories interconnects and leaves one to ponder and be inspired. No heavy handed stuff here just the distilled down beauty of the parables. So watch FORTY NIGHTS followed by CHASING THE STAR and THE CHRIST SLAYER. Make them part of your yearly watch or anytime you need a good dose of positivity. All free with ads on Encourage TV (Youtube, Roku)
LOST HEART, WILD FAITH, MAN’S BEST FRIEND, BEST YEARS GONE – all of the CDI films have some great lessons or awareness woven into the storytelling. Treat yourself and tell others about your favorite story.
COMING SOON!
Harsens Island Revenge was talked about earlier and those anxiously awaiting will be treated at the end of the month to the ‘behind the scenes’ video showing the hard work and fun of making a CDI film. Next month my plan is to release the first teaser trailer and soon after the theatrical poster.
HOT ROD LOVE – We have more funders interested in getting behind this movie. We are awaiting to see to what degree and we’re in talks with many other parties old and new. This 1970’s story will be a blast to film. Our director Shane Hagedorn will be meeting with our production designer in FL to discuss some elements of the film. We’ll be doing a location scout soon at the race track location. Too early to sound the battle horns but we’re getting there. Also we’re getting some sponsors on board joining Pepsi and so if you have interest of getting your company involved please do reach out to me. It is a unique marketing opportunity for sure.
MISC. DEVELOPMENT
Monday I have another development meeting and we’re close to signing and announcing on it. Also I’m bringing on a local Iowa artists to assist us in the funding of SPIRIT LAKE MASSACRE. Additionally, I’m 1/3 of the way through a new/old script that might be filmed next winter. It is a cool stylized piece and will make a great feature film. I’m looking to have some talks next week that might put some fire under the WILD FAITH: HASTINGS TV series. Steps. Steps. Steps. I’m ready for some eggs so I’m going to bring this to a close. Keep your roots planted and remember where you come from and where you started. CDI is multi-generational and I’m proud of that. I’m off and we’ll chat next week same place and time. Be good to one another and have a productive week!
DJ
Artists Helping Artists- Updates and Insights
Good morning!
Happy Chinese New Year of the Dragon! Happy Super Bowl Sunday or whatever you want to attribute the day too. I just will say Happy Sunday! I’m sipping the hazelnut coffee which is really tasting nice this morning. I’ve had a good week and I hope to give you a few updates to our projects and endeavors. I want to thank everyone once again for joining me here. This format here helps me to summarize my progress on projects and to plan ahead. It also serves to update the interested parties and for other artists it can help, artists helping artists. Where to begin- I had a great talk this past week with an author John Farkis doing a book on Old Tuscan/Mescal studios in Benson AZ. If you do your research it is where countless great films were shot. TOMBSTONE being one of the most famous. I was privileged to have worked there myself. A producer Thadd Turner, well known for his passion of westerns was doing a new film there. His son who was young at the time loved Civil War films and WICKED SPRING (You can watch free w/ ads on Encourage TV) was his favorite film. And his favorite character was mine. So what a cool father to reach out to hire me as an actor. He knew I had experience in producing and I wanted to really study how others produce. I had not yet produced Dean Teaster’s Ghost Town or Wild Faith yet but they would require more wrangling of horses. So I jumped at the opportunity to produce the behind the scenes for the film. We ended up with an epic hour and a half or more of content that was shown at the Lone Pine Film Festival. (Another famous place for filming western TV series) I was thankful to be able to be on set and meet some many talented and wonderful people on both sides of the camera. It is the set where I met Rance Howard, who would become my mentor and co-star in another four of our films. One of my childhood heroes David Carradine (Kung Fu) whom I got to know quite well. Wes Studi, Irene Bedard, Mark Rolston, Buck Taylor, Michael Parks, Francine York, Brian Libby – and the list goes on. The film’s lead Tim Abell and I would forge a friendship that would lead to several collaborations like playing my dad in MAN’S BEST FRIEND. It was fun to bring back all these good memories. That is what each film is like. The experiences of making the film. Tommy Dippel was always a hoot and took time to really explain the wrangling aspect. Jon Proudstar coordinating in the office but was happy to see him acting in Reservation Dogs recently. Wes Studi on Finding Your Roots. Watching TV and film becomes a different experience when they are your friends and co-workers up there. John the author and I had a great talk and now he’s another to add to the circle. He enjoyed watching WILD FAITH and will be doing a review for which I’m honored to have.
(Lone Pine me, Tony Hornus, John Saxon, Thadd Turner, David Borowicz)
Speaking on literary – recently I talked about the new campaign for my first starring film IN THE WOODS. A cult film that was the resulting passion of a couple young filmmakers trying to earn their way into the industry. So soon they’ll be announcing info on the remastered film and the new director’s cut. End of this week I’ll get my first watch on the new director’s cut and we’ll be capturing commentary. To prep for this new campaign a making of book (Now also in hardcover) filled with the story of the struggle and original script released late last year - PURCHASE HERE: https://www.amazon.com/Making-Woods-Lynn-Drzick/dp/B0BXMTJS9C/ref=sr_1_1?crid=36RJZKN42LZ5G&keywords=In+the+Woods+movie+lynn+Drzick&qid=1707660674&s=books&sprefix=in+the+woods+movie+lynn+drzick%2Cstripbooks%2C85&sr=1-1
Coming soon is the new special edition In the Woods novelization by Nancy Gideon. I had penned a prequel script the told the full story of the creatures in the movie. An epic sword and sorcery tale that sheds light and answers all the questions viewers of the film had. We cut some of the flashbacks from the film due to budgetary issues as we discussed previously. But if you read this you will get the full story. I was proud to add to the world created by Lynn Drzick and if you enjoy a good story of warring kingdoms this might be just for you! PURCHASE HERE: https://www.amazon.com/panDEMONium-Woods-Origin-DJ-Perry/dp/B0CV8F73D6/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1WENU3ERCKDAR&keywords=In+the+Woods+DJ+Perry&qid=1707661064&s=books&sprefix=in+the+woods+dj+perry%2Cstripbooks%2C92&sr=1-1
All this is preparing for the new release of the classic and new version of IN THE WOODS on Blu Ray! The question that lingers in the aftermath is SEQUEL? PREQUEL? Only time will tell but I will say that there is an interest by all parties. Wayne Higley? Al Fargo? Alex Kerwood? Or Prince Freeacus? Lentar? Captain Hur? We will have to wait and see what is to unfold in the forthcoming-
LITERARY –
Staying on the subject of literary with books being a close second in my favorite medium next to motion picture/TV. We are looking to release several books/screenplay combos where the materials exist. Plus cool interviews with key folks about the making of that particular film. One such book I’m exciting about is THE QUEST TRILOGY, our 3 films (Forty Nights, Chasing the Star, The Christ Slayer) * Also on Encourage TV – all in the biblical realm. A coffee table book with the three scripts and essays by the three directors and key members of the production. I have to get after the essays as that can be like wrangling cats.
Re-Issues: All the CDI films are now being loaded onto the backup CDI RAID which I’ll name HAL. Once there we’ll be digitally remastering some and creating new DCP files (For theatrical) as some films like GHOST TOWN and AN ORDINARY KILLER will be getting a special new release into theaters as a first step. Blu-Ray deals are being looked at for all the films as a superior way to preserve and view physical media and lastly streaming. From the CDI Classic Collection – FROM VENUS is going to be pushed behind CDI’s first film KNIGHT CHILLS, which released in Oct. 2023 on Blu Ray BUY HERE: https://www.amazon.com/Knight-Chills-Tim-Jeffrey/dp/B0CJ5WBSZR/ref=asc_df_B0CJ5WBSZR/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=680424942453&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=10081684957020523845&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1019404&hvtargid=pla-2260223998064&psc=1&mcid=399dd8121370380c8b97cdbf876e05c6&gad_source=1
Knight Chills streaming in Oct 2024 is a goal and we’ll be talking to various horror streaming sites. FROM VENUS Blu Ray in Oct. 2024 would be great also. But things sometimes move at their own speed. But we keep pushing forward.
All of these CDI library films getting new life in the HD age is exciting but we have many films living in that world now.
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA – PR will be forthcoming but as always you get the news here first. While the film continues to be available on DVD or play on a growing number of transactional platforms available to rent or buy like on Google Play, Apple TV, Vudu, Youtube and Amazon Prime– WATCH HERE: https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CN1KYNNT/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r - The film will be going to subscription video of demand on the UP Family & Faith tv this Summer! Our distributor will continue to work hard to bring it to the various countries around the globe! Thank you to all you have enjoyed this movie and if you have some positive feedback feel free to leave it on our http://www.imdb.com page!
Harsens Island Revenge – Our director Carl Weyant is back this week from Brazil. The following week we’ll be looking to have a sit down and watch the film minus the opening scene yet to be shot. We’ll be discussing music with composer Dennis Therrian who has been “sketching” musical beds to play for Carl. We’ll also be discussing the first teaser trailer which scenes are being pulled for. And the theatrical poster plus by the end of the month we plan to release a behind the scenes video by our own Adam Towner. To say I’m excited to sit back and see the flow is an understatement.
DEVELOPMENT:
HOT ROD LOVE– Our next Shane Hagedorn directed comedy drama set in the 70’s made some more steps this week in funding and sponsorship. If we can lock up funding in the next 6-8 weeks we’ll be looking at July/August timeframe to prep and film. Schedule could slide if funding takes any longer but we’re in talks with several parties and have faith we can keep our timeline.
We have another feature in development that I cannot speak on until development paperwork is signed but that should happen this week. It is another historical drama based upon a real person. We’re very excited about this project which the goal is to fund in 2024 and shoot in 2025.
SPIRIT LAKE MASSACRE is another true event film in development. It is the state story of Iowa’s early days and will be a great story to preserve the history.
WILD FAITH: HASTINGS– We keep putting piece after piece into place on this TV series that would be the spin off from the pilot feature seen by tens of millions around the world. Step by step!
SCRIPTWRITING: I’m also 1/3 of the way through a script that could film next winter. Smaller in scope but a great piece of acting full of intrigue and interesting characters. The script is the blueprint as I like to say so it is important to have a tight script.
WRAP UP: You can see that various projects are underway. This past week we the help of a few amigos we got the remaining logs cut up into kindling for the wood stove so we’ll be ready for the next snow and…the first podcast “Fireside Chat with DJ Perry” which we hope to do the 1st one this week. I’m happy to report that our chickens are starting to produce eggs and even some of the plants and herbs are getting a head start with the warm front we’ve had. My cousin handy Bart gave my newly acquired wood chipper a once over and so stick clean up will be more productive. The end result will be much needed wood chips. I’ve been still immersed in my study of herbs and I’m looking forward to a good growing season. More clover will be going down in the yard that is loved by both the chickens and leprechauns. We’ll see if things align for the new patio deck this year. I also want to look at better privacy fencing in places but one thing at a time. It is all a work in progress. Just like we are. I hope you all have a great week. Keep those 2024 goals firmly in mind and work towards them. I’m exciting that soccer is right around the corner and I’m ready to lace up my cleats! Until next week-
Be good to one another!
DJ
PS: I lost a few pics and all my tags trying to upload and I luckily had my recent draft so I’m just going to upload “as is” as I’m out of time.
The ‘Artistic Perception’ and Several Updates!
(On set ‘Lost Heart’ Premiere – getting ready for ‘Best Years Gone’ as Gil Gilles) * LOVE my coat!
Good morning my friends! I’m sipping on the coffee and looking forward to again sharing a few thoughts, updates and insights. This blog has been getting even more followers as friends share the blog with others. The artistic spirit can feel like a curse when you are unable to live it fully. But know it is a spirit that can manifest in all that you do. How you write a memo. How you lay our a display. Art can manifest at any job you do and often inspire outside of work art, if you do not get to do art full time (yet). I had a great meeting with our friend Mark at Pepsi and let me tell you the man possesses an artist’s spirit. It has taken him a bit to see that but every gardener is an artist and more. Every leader who uses creative endeavors and programs to nurture the best from his employees and co-workers is an artist. Leadership is an art to be sure. Art is to feel and ultimately to care, because you have something to say. That art can cause or stimulate the artistic receptors in others like when looking at a painting or a sculpture. Thinking of you Greg Zivic. Back to Mark who we met because of good people networking starting with Graham Turner, a health and fitness trainer friend. He started sitting in on meetings and was my martial arts partner when working out the action sequences for Man’s Best Friend with John Lennox. He brought his expertise in one area to CDI’s health and hospitality. This is our expanded version of craft service. Now he’s worked up into the office as a production coordinator. He’s an artist. True artists attract other artists who can sense sincerity and intent.
(Creative meetings at the office/fort are powered by Pepsi)
Full circle to Mark Balko at Pepsi who is more than just a contact he is a tribe member. He found a group who understood his artistic urges and did not feel odd or outcast but accepted. ART is the secret to doing great things. Anyone can follow instructions and bake but those who take it to another level is art. Grilling – we can all but flame to meat but for a true grill master it becomes an art. You should look for the art in all you do and some are already fully aware of it. ART is EVERYWHERE because it is a PERCEPTION! It can make your smaller market distributor a top in the country, GO Alpena Bears! It can make melt-in-your mouth pork and cakes that are almost a shame to cut into. Sometimes you don’t have to seek out a different circle of artists sometimes it is just being the one who stimulates that in others. Thus the art of leadership. All interconnected. I hope this helps a few of you to look at things differently. But I want to thank Mark at Pepsi for their sponsorship of CDI and our films. They were a sponsor on Harsens Island Revenge and we have some fun ideas for the Alpena, MI premiere end of the year. Even more exciting is their involvement in HOT ROD LOVE that we are working hard to shoot this year. Let’s move to that film to discuss for a few.
(Thank you to Pepsi, save the Coor’s Light which is thanks to Adam Towner)
HOT ROD LOVE 2024 – We’re pushing into new talks with potential investors and sponsors on our 1970’s dramedy with drag racing at the heart of it. We had more commitments this week and have additional meetings next week. We are taking steady steps forward to get the business foundation in place. It is a 90% business and 10% creative until we get all our financial ducks in a row. That is what the producers at CDI do is work to get those things in place. This film will be a blast to produce and I cannot wait to go location scout. With nicer weather we might do that sooner vs later but again I don’t like to get to deep on all that until we are a full go. We call that a GREEN LIGHT. Ironic isn’t it with a racing movie. The official start of pre-production. I’ll keep you informed as we move forward. Right now we are focused on those two things funders and sponsors. Thank you to those who have already committed and we look forward to telling another great story.
Harsens Island Revenge (HIR) UPDATES! I had an almost two hour talk with our director Carl Weyant while he is still in Brazil. He returns Feb 14th and we’ll get together soon after. He was working on the final 20 minutes of the film edit. With end credits and the opening scene we still have to shoot we are guessing 1:45 min runtime. Once Carl has landed back here we’ll plan our final scene shoot and also do a watch on the cut before tweaks and a picture lock. The Behind-the-scenes is being worked on and I’ll get a better ETA on that but my goal is end of the month. Once our director is back we’ll be working the theatrical poster and trailer. The trailer will help us now if a 3rd party theatrical will be getting involved in booking or if our theatrical division at CDI will handle. We had a good run with our previous release and I think we can do even better second time around. So either way, it will be a successful run. More on HIR next week but exciting things ahead.
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA – The film just went back into Cherokee, Iowa’s American 3 theaters for a run last week in January. I know we’ve had some additional requests and I met with Shane Hagedorn end of week to pass along some returned DCP files for theatrical play. The home video release is still going strong and I’m just so happy that this story is growing each week. I’ll know second quarter how strong the film is doing since it released 4th quarter of 2023. It is all a process and the wheel turns. We still have broadcast TV and ad-based video on demand later in the year. Plus foreign sales should start appearing as the film travels to the film markets and gets picked up. The two museums in the town of Algona are already benefitting from the film just off our theatrical thanks to The Donald Tietz Foundation. Preserving history and helping the community! We should all strive to do such things.
(A beautiful scene from part 3 of THE QUEST TRILOGY – The Christ Slayer)
THE QUEST TRILOGY – As the sun and light starts its return and will slowly bring us out of winter we’ll soon be approaching the spring season of Easter. These three films have become a gems of the season and we’re so appreciative of all the fans who’ve made them a tradition. If you want to take some time for deep contemplation and to feel inner happiness take a watch. I watch them at least once a year and they always make my day better. Part 1 is FORTY NIGHTS, Part 2 CHASING THE STAR and Part 3 THE CHRIST SLAYER. Don’t let the title of part 3 throw you as it is a lesson unto itself that will make since once you watch the film. For you fans of Harsens Island Revenge, it stars our director Carl Weyant and he does a great job. If any of you on here watch them please do leave your comments here but also on http://www.imdb.com on the individual pages or Amazon‘s page if you rent/watch from there. They can be watched FREE with ADs on ENCOURAGE TV on YOUTUBE.
MISC: I could write a nice bit about each and every film but I will not take your time with that. But I want to thank all the fans of LOST HEART, MAN’S BEST FRIEND, BEST YEARS GONE and WILD FAITH who’ve reached out. I also want to thank all the people who reached out about my new agency for acting. I put my everything into the #tribeCDI and often neglect myself because I’m very fulfilled. I’ve been on the posters, the physical media art and so on. I really do enjoy seeing my fellow artists spotlighted.
I’m feeling good about by decision with Treasure Coast Agency because I like how they treat people. I got to experience that as the producer approaching them and dealing with them so I know first hand. So again thank you and soon I’ll be listed on their site. I’m looking into some new pics of ME not any of my numerous characters. That is hard because I’m always creating. Even now ‘Woody Jr.’ from HOT ROD LOVE is starting to form:)
In addition to my actor materials I’m trying to polish up my social media. I love the instagram mainly because of them allowing little musical snippets with your postings. So if you want to follow me there my new handle is officialdjperry so join me there. I do have two Facebook pages because the home page Richard Perry (DJ Perry) is limited two 5k and I’ve got about 2k in folks waiting so I started a DJ Perry run over page. It is also helpful when I have lots of PR that I don’t want to collide. So I’m trying to get my social media stuff up to par but I know it is lacking somewhat. I’m excited to meet this week over my FIRESIDE CHAT WITH DJ PERRY podcast that Adam Towner will be producing. We will be filming the first one this month and we’ll see how that goes. Many of you enjoyed the little video snippets I’ve done when my WordPress here was giving me trouble.
Speaking of podcasts my good buddy Dean Teaster is now working with “Two Average Joe’s” a cold case team, investigating the death of Dawn Louise Basom from Ypsilanti, MI in 1969 The link can be found here- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=srOWdtME-y8&feature=youtu.be
Aside from all this film and marketing work I’ve been preparing for spring. I love the nature around me and I’ve been in deeper study of my herbs and fungi and the beneficial properties. I’m looking forward to the herb gardens and we’re going to plant more clover around the yard. The chickens are slowly starting their egg laying again which for that we’re happy. This year we’ll be making several upgrades to the yard. I’m going to rebuild our compost bin and maybe add a few rain barrels. This week will probably have me do some more log splitting with the new set of axes. Last go around with Adam Towner and Graham Turner we killed two of the axes. But this warm spell will let me do a final round of splitting to be ready for the last blast of winter. Also soccer season is right around the corner and I could not be more excited.
I’m going to call it good here because I have to go eat and do some reorganizing to the office/fort after getting the new fridge in there. I’m looking forward to spending time with my brother and a few friends later in the day. Might do a run to a farm supply store to get a new snow shovel. My U shaped handle wide shovel is the best one I’ve ever had. Eliminates back pain and gives a strong arm and chest workout. It got a bit of a crunch with my cousin Bart Ketner stopped over. I should have had it in a better place. But on the positive he helped me string new lights up in the office/fort including a customized one he built. Plus he’s gonna get my yard chipper working. He’s a ‘Handy Andy’ as I like to say. I appreciate having him when my skills reach an end. But each year I get a bit better at my tinkering thanks to my handy friends. I am a work-in-progress:)
PS: RIP to Carl Weathers a great on-screen talent. I never met him but his loss felt personal having grown up loving his work.
Until next week. Be good to one another. Keep that artistic perception.
Coffee Cheers!
DJ
Secrets to Success – Starts With Attitude
(Color test on ‘Harsens Island Revenge’ footage)
Coffee cheers to all of you out there. I want to once again thank all the readers who stopped through last week. We had some readers from different countries joining us including Ukraine. My sincere hope is for peace and for issues and misunderstandings to be settled by words not war. We had a slight reprieve from the arctic chill but it is back this weekend. I had an eventful week both business and personal. On the personal it included helping a buddy out on a couple afternoons and engaging my love of herbal concoctions by making my first batch of ‘Fire Cider’. I already take a shot of apple cider vinegar everyday. This mixture is comprised of maybe 20 ingredients infused over several weeks in apple cider vinegar. Ingredients like garlic, ginger root, turmeric, orange, lemon, thyme, cinnamon bark, honey and more. I’ve also been enjoying my ongoing study of the individual ingredients also including many teas. I’ve been into wild crafting for a long time but I’m just being more disciplined in my approach. I’ve got a journey that I’ve been using to record and review my studies. A great external salve something that medieval medics have used for centuries to treat battle wounds is ‘garlic honey’ or honey infused with raw garlic cloves. For years I’ve studied the natural pharmacy on our property. The sap of the white pine is also great for wounds. The needles make a great tea with lots of vitamin C. Many of the herbs, fungus, roots, barks and berries hold great beneficial properties. Knowing what is edible and what isn’t is a good knowledge to have. For those that don’t know I use to be a camp counselor at a nature center and I love that connection with nature. So if this filmmaking doesn’t work out you’ll find me running DJ’s Potions & Lotions. But seriously, many minor health issues or the strengthening and reinforcing of ones constitution can be done with natural properties. This was part of my New Years resolution to take my casual interest and study and make it a daily routine. I’ve spent many years of my life to the study of the warrior and this phase of life has me becoming the healer. I touched on that last week talking about haters. Where a decade or two ago such remarks would bring out the warrior I now see the negative mental anguish of someone and I feel sorry for them. The healer in me wishes that find a filter of happiness to start looking at life through. When you have those dark negative filters in place everything positive in others sparks those negative traits. Sadly that negativity only draws more negativity to them. Use bad reviews that are not just stating something is not their cup of tea but digs deeper – click on their profile and most all their reviews ring negative. For them even sunshine is too bright. Stars twinkle too much. Roses smell too sweet. Some only create a profile only to spread negativity. That is giving a lot. I follow my mother’s advice if I don’t have something nice to say…you know the saying. Wise words. I just go on to something else. I watch programs all the time whereas some don’t do it for me. But I don’t spend any energy discouraging someone else. I will on occasion when something leaves a very positive effect recommend it. A film, a restaurant, a band or song or a place to visit. Because I want others to possible have the same positive intake of energy that I did. It is a way of living. Mental illness can stem from living in that negativity. Be careful what you say about or to yourself. A few weeks ago we talked about broadcasting unbalance. To put into filmmaker terms – a person lamenting about their unbalance and bemoaning a lack of funding is like a babysitter broadcasting their lack of attention and/or responsibility and bemoaning nobody wanting to hire them to watch their kids. Hence no money and the negativity circle continues. You must be first seen as capable and earn that reputation by following through. No big secret just common sense. I really do hope that these simple words help a few folks out there.
(‘The Actor’ was a NYC film I did with director Jon Osman – seen here with actor James Russo)
Another simple lesson that I use and has resulted in many positive outcomes. When you aren’t sure what to do next or what your next destination is – organize and prepare. When a ship doesn’t have an immediate destination the captain will order the barnacles to be removed. The hull to be tarred. The sails to be mended and for rations to be restocked. Prepare to play. An athlete doesn’t wait to be put in the game to prepare to play. They’ve spent countless hours running or strength training or coordination drills. Whatever they need to be when the time comes they’ve prepared for. Slow times for your acting career- polish your resume, get new promo materials and get yourself feeling and looking your best. I have been quite satisfied by my acting work and even turned down a few opportunities due to timing. I aways have ‘working on a few outside acting projects’ as a yearly goal because it’s fun to just create a role without all the added production responsibility. In my past I’ve been with several small agents in various markets and I’ve been with one of the big three agencies also. The shingle of the agency can get some respect from some but it is really about the integrity and character of the agent and agency itself. I’ve had a few deals in the past wrecked by agents playing hardball or just leading with their ego. So for many years I’ve just handled my own business with my legal team. Over the past several years we’ve brought in many talent from a certain agency and agent and they’ve always been a joy to deal with. I’ve seldom said that about previous agents we’ve had to deal with. But that has been different with Treasure Coast Talent Agency. And so I’ve decided to align myself with them. I’m picky about my projects but I’ve built a relationship with them over the years and realized I like the way they present, conduct and handle their business. So I’ve been updating my Actors Access page which I’ve not touched in years. I’m going to cut a new reel for 2024. Maybe some new pics although I do have many great ones but mostly in character. I’ll be doing some PR likely next week announcing this new partnership.
But, don’t think that is going to replace production work. We are only picking up steam on that front. Let me run down some bullet point film updates.
FILM UPDATES–
- CDI has done a variety of “in association” films whereas they were funded by others so they are the managers of the property. One of these was a “found footage” horror film shot in the Philippines entitled DARKEST NIGHT. For being a dark horror film it was such a joy to film. It was the first film by author/producer Russ Williams and it recently just celebrated over 300,000 views! Congrats and if being scared is your thing, take a watch HERE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PZtiDrLfRM
- Staying on the subject of scary films KNIGHT CHILLS, CDI’s first film from 25 years ago enjoyed a BluRay release in Oct of last year is looking to expand its new release campaign with streaming and a book release of the novel and the screenplay together with fun BTS pics. The Blu Ray can be purchased HERE: https://www.amazon.com/Knight-Chills-Tim-Jeffrey/dp/B0CJ5WBSZR/ref=asc_df_B0CJ5WBSZR/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=680424942453&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=10064638097126313670&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9017262&hvtargid=pla-2260223998064&psc=1&mcid=399dd8121370380c8b97cdbf876e05c6&gad_source=1
- IF you want to see what kind of book we’re talking about see the link for my first feature film I starred in IN THE WOODS, as Alex Curwood monster hunter. It is now in hardcover! BUY HERE: https://www.amazon.com/Making-Woods-Lynn-Drzick/dp/B0BXMTJS9C/ref=sr_1_7?crid=2OOFTD9VKNH5U&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.CxQQRxhTMPJogT4O2O30vsyJcCJ3gFeJ-fI7WGXy4ho2tAPbZc4IS5HYIpTwheQuUqatHw6OBsjqeoAEi9J67L5vFCUCK35bd8ghehGN5rysnRWhjxiW1FDmn-PFjcv3B9dIQKqtp1dlZAbu39VB3LrXCUkVmr4tRlraeuuj0onZ9dJITDj_ldwUwu2tj5l6edYa0Q1hXXembWYic6ujeO7GVGQ8l899XbAGFljpGJg.eFyhsOAOm9yBoXDimPiE3Qq6D-4Ho0z-gvBFVZjYoRw&dib_tag=se&keywords=IN+THE+WOODS+screenplay&qid=1705849771&s=books&sprefix=in+the+woods+screenplay%2Cstripbooks%2C94&sr=1-7
- Furthermore with IN THE WOODS, the film has been digitally remastered plus we also have a new director’s cut that is much more enriched. I’m waiting until the theatrical premiere to see it. But we shopped the film and have had a few good distribution offers. I think we know which one we want to go with for BluRay and merchandise. The novelization by Nancy Gideon is also going to get a re-release and perhaps even the origins script I penned many years ago. It is fun to see these classic films get remastered and enjoyed and appreciated by a new generation.
- Following KNIGHT CHILLS, CDI’s second film was a nod to comic books and the pulp SciFi entitled FROM VENUS, directed by Jeff Kennedy. New art work is being assembled/painted by Tom Miller the fan artists who did the amazing paintings for the Knight Chills Blu Ray. Once I have this packaged we’ll shop it to a few of the companies that focus on these films. It is an honor to have these films appreciated as classics. I want to preserve them and allow them to be seen by upcoming filmmakers. We are started somewhere.
- Jumping 20+ year ahead let’s talk about the films front and center. SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA is really doing well on home video. We’re still getting theaters asking to have the film play on the big screen. We are able to do that so we might start having some select big screen showings. But the DVD and STREAMING has been strong and I hope to have more specifics on how strong very soon. This WW2 home front war drama is a must see if that time period interests you at all. DVD and STREAMING can both be bought or rented HERE: https://www.amazon.com/Silent-Night-Algona-Anthony-Hornus/dp/B0CL7DFYSK/ref=asc_df_B0CL7DFYSK/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=680424942453&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=7946069189314477119&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9017262&hvtargid=pla-2260853923386&psc=1&mcid=a5b5ef0d428739e98e194c62143ee272&gad_source=1
- Harsens Island Revenge editing is still going strong and our director Carl will be home in a week and change. The film is really coming together and beyond the intensity of the characters and story the footage is just beautiful. Carl was also working on a few settings for the color correction and it made the beautiful footage even more amazing. I cannot wait for us to sit down with Dennis Therrian our composer and sound designer. He’s been sketching sound and score samples to discuss with Carl. Also we’ll be bringing the producers together for our one opening scene shoot to kick off the film. It’s WW1 and will be quite exciting to film. If we shoot in Feb or March will depend on the snow, the military base and how quickly we can pull it all together.
- HOT ROD LOVE – This is the next feature film looking to shoot this Summer. It will be directed by Shane Hagedorn and is a drama-comedy set in the 1970’s with drag racing being the back drop. I think we’ve found our track partners but need to do a formal scout. We’ve got some of the first commits to funding and will keep on those. Following Pepsi we have some other sponsors landing and this will be a fun one for advertisers. The race track, cars and racing suits and such will allow us to really capture some great brands. If you or your company want to know about involvement feel free to reach out to me.
- Additional Development – I had a few nice calls this past week about CDI coming back into Iowa to film again. I had a good meeting with Curran Jacobs, who we’re looking to work with again and we think we’ve got the right project. Some development paperwork will be put into play and once done we’ll talk more about that project. SPIRIT LAKE MASSACRE was discussed this week and we have some forthcoming talks that might move that piece on the chessboard. WILD FAITH: HASTINGS has some interest but patience is in practice as we await a few developments.
- If you’ve not watched the CDI library many of them can be found on Encourage TV on a Playlist so please do enjoy these film. WATCH HERE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g0LCdlq-BK0&list=PL2Tn2MhKrkFOCsmKZaxoZCT1R5GEOEL3E
I’m going to wrap up this blog update so I can get some breakfast, shower up and be ready to cheer on our Detroit Lions football team. I had a Lions helmet as a child and I’ve been a lifelong fan along with many family members now deceased who would have loved to see this game. Win or lose we will all be proud of this team but we’re all looking for a win. I know we’ll get their very best. GO LIONS! I’ll look forward to sharing with you all again next week. Stay warm for those in the arctic zone and be good to one another.
DJ
2024 is Underway and Here We Go!
Coffee cheers on a snowy day in Michigan that is actually looking like winter. I want to welcome our new readers from Sri-Lanka, Philippines, Brazil and more. Note all those places are warm. Speaking of that last one Brazil, I had a chance to speak with our director of Harsens Island Revenge in Brazil via FaceTime on my phone. What an amazing jump in technology from just a few years ago where I would have given anything to say hello to loved ones at home when in the Philippines or India. It was occasionally jerky but clear as day we had a good meeting over the film progress. We might as well jump right into that but I hope you all are having a great start to your new year.
First our director Carl Weyant will be staying an extra week and coming home the first week of February. The edit so far is at 1 hour and ten minutes and moving quickly towards the end. He’s over the moon with the performances and the film even before color correction looks great. The film really sucks you in and keeps you engaged as the story progresses. The relationships are strong and we just really talked also about our journey getting to this point. He credited the script strength and the performances and I acknowledged his positive attitude, preparedness and his creative eye. Carl and I first met above the cloud line in India in a place called Ooty. A place unlike the hot and humid lowlands. A place high above set in the mountains where great pine forests lie. Here the British built palaces and the tea fields grow vast fields of the precious stuff. We stayed at the Holiday Inn Gem set at the top of the mountain. The film was called Karma: Crime, Passion, Reincarnation and is a great spooky thriller that is just beautiful. There is talk of trying to bring the film to the USA. We tried several years ago but what they wanted $ wise did not match want distributors wanted to pay. But maybe this could be the year. It really is a gem of a film. I loved the experience save the getting in and out of the country itself. The airports are a bit chaotic and communication was not what is is now. From there, Carl who was the leading man and I was the supporting detective became fast friends. Over the years we’ve guested in each others films. I went to NYC to play an FBI agent in THE ACTOR (On Amazon) and he acted in ASHES OF EDEN (Also available to watch). After that he was our lead as the blind centurion in part 3 of our biblical adventures in THE QUEST TRILOGY entitled The Christ Slayer. (All three can be seen and should be seen in order Forty Nights, Chasing the Star and The Christ Slayer) CDI had some exciting short form projects like music videos opening up to us and I paired he and Travis Hayward and it was magic. Those two work so well together and we’re soon to start another music video. Carl was invited to Iowa and played Lt. Grant in SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA and from there he was awarded the drivers seat on Harsens Island Revenge.
Relationships are everything in this business. I use to ponder that statement in our business of “it’s all who you know.” While really it is “who do you trust.” Trust to give 100%. Trust to appreciate all the effort before they came onboard. Trust that they will be that sail not an anchor to a project. To trust requires one to know. That is a big part of my job to look at a story and the pool of trusted creatives and pull together the best trusted team. When I’m successful I build that trust with my team. I’ve surprised people on several occasions with my outside the box ideas or the choosing of a certain person for a certain role or position. Bret Miller as the director of Chasing the Star was a surprise to some but he was the right person. Josh “Ponceman” Perry as Albus in The Christ Slayer. Carl Weyant was one of those surprise choices as the Harsens Island Revenge director but I dare say in all three of these examples the right choice was made. I’m so damn proud of our always growing tribe of creatives. I encourage you to watch all these films and follow the history of CDI. One day I do want a doc made on the company and now that we’re about top have easier access to the films footage it will happen eventually.
One of my goals I think I failed to mention was to become more present in a few of these industry mixers and open myself to discovering new talent. I’m a bit of an introvert by nature loving to listen to music, ponder and write. To take and make phone calls and in-person meetings. My days of “partying” are truly behind me having been there, done that and got that tee shirt. I like being productive and creating. But I can socialize and I do love getting to know people’s stories. I’m easier to get to know when I’m not on set with lots of responsibilities in producing and performing. So I’m going to make more of an effort this year.
Active development is underway for 2024 and 2025. Some projects like SPIRIT LAKE MASSACRE and WILD FAITH: HASTINGS are large and require more time and larger budgets. These two will be working towards rolling camera sin 2025. Active development in 2024 looking to shoot this year includes HOT ROD LOVE and a KNIGHT CHILLS follow up. This coming week we’re going to be approaching our pool of past investors with HOT ROD LOVE. A great film with much to say as most CDI films do but wrapped in humor and set in the glorious 1970’s drag racing world. Shane Hagedorn (Best Years Gone) will be directing and we hope to film late summer/early fall. We already have Pepsi signed on as a sponsor and will be talking with many others with this exciting film. A few of the film’s investor units are spoken for and as noted we’ll give first opportunity to those with seniority. After we’ll open it up any remaining opportunities to those new folks wishing to journey with us.
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA had a great Christmas season and will continue the roll out march into our new year. This war time film can be enjoyed at anytime of year. We’re starting our marketing expansion and I hope many other countries get to experience the film. We had a very strong November and I’m sure December was even stronger. And this time next year I would imagine it available in many countries and playing on broadcast TV. Fans of free watching with ads will likely be able to see it in several months and with certain subscriptions. I would love to see it on HBO, which was always my go to for historical fiction.
BEST YEARS GONE, MANS BEST FRIEND, LOST HEART, WILD FAITH…so many good watches. It might be a first watch or just a chance to watch again and meet up with old friends like Hannah Sweet, Paul Landings, Chip or Emmett Murphy. We have so many films on Encourage TV that they gave us our own playlist so make it a watch marathon – WATCH HERE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2Tn2MhKrkFOCsmKZaxoZCT1R5GEOEL3E
WRAP UP: I’m going to work to wrap this up. I have eggs and corn beef hash awaiting me. I’ve been getting lots organized for end of year taxes both personally and the films. We broke an axe and sledge hammer while splitting logs last week and so I need to get replacements. We winterized the chicken coop just in time before this heavier snow flew. We still have our Christmas stuff up which I love but the tree will come down soon and Christmas lights will go into storage.
Our back up RAID for film storage is built and so we’ll be loading films onto that in the coming weeks. We’re looking at what older films from the CDI classic collection to remaster and get out to market. The re-release of KNIGHT CHILLS has been very fulfilling. To see where you started makes you truly realize how far you’ve come. One moment you’ve taking a rest at the Peacock Tree Farm in Bath, MI waiting for the fire department so you can blow up a car on Knight Chills and next moment you’re at the Old Lighthouse in Alpena, MI capturing magic hour for Harsens Island Revenge. 25 years plus in a blink of an eye. Don’t put off any dreams you might have. This past week a friend lost his dad after a full life and tragically I read about a 50 year old friend of friends who passed way too early. Don’t wait. Don’t be afraid to fail. Failing is learning. Learning is growing. Growing is what makes us truly feel alive. If you’re 80 years young and always dreamed of writing a book, do it. You’ve always dreamt of leaving the hustle bustle and have your own food truck, do it. You always wanted to share your music, do it. Okay, I’m off to eat and enjoy this wintery day. I so appreciate all of you for taking your time to stop by and read these words. I hope they offer you some insight and inspiration to your own endeavors.
Be good to one another!
DJ
‘Harsens Island Revenge’ One Week In the Can! And Other CDI Updates!
Good afternoon from beautiful Alpena, MI where we are shooting our newest motion picture HARSENS ISLAND REVENGE. We had a strong start to our week finishing early every day but it is not a sprint but a marathon. We have some new department members that are getting their first taste of set life. You need to keep your mind clear and your body healthy. We’ve had a swing of temps from chilly to warm and back to nighttime chilly. My sinus have felt it on some days but that is part of the game. We’ve had wonderful views every day and each new and exciting locations. It is always exciting to see new actors arrive or new vehicles make their appearance. It gives a look into the revolutionizing of the world as we moved from horse and buggies to horseless carriages. From speakeasy’s to lighthouses we have been capturing just amazing footage. And we are making some new friends which is always a joy.
Co-Producer Tony with our sound team Travis and Cody
Tomorrow we are back at it filming at some rustic cottages from the 20’s. That is the amazing thing about the town is that many of the buildings are from that time period and new owners are just to restore them to their former glory or just preserve them as they were. We hear stories here from everyone about the Purple Gangs involvement. This is the same coast as Harsens and has the same rugged look and channels. We’ve heard of hitman living the low life here amongst the townspeople. This area was mainly lumber trade. And the performances have been just on point. That is something that our crew has been really happy with. The organization and the performances adding in all the locations and props.
DP Travis Hayward with Shane Hagedorn on screen
This doesn’t happen by accident. It is the hard work of our producing team and keys. Today is our day off but we were working up until 4:00 and Tony Hornus is still in the office lining up extras. He takes such care in the faces he brings to the screen and works hard to bring them into the story. It’s not policy but when I can I like to write paychecks out on the off day. I was really quite exhausted last night after filming but got up early to write cast and crew payroll. Today we also gave away a pottery piece from Reinert Pottery, one of our sponsors with the checks.
Me with Don Most and director Carl Weyant
We have two more weeks to go but we are getting into a groove. Folks have to get some sleep and take their vitamins today and let’s get after it.
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA– I cannot recall if we talked about winning Best Screenplay and Best Film at the Red Letter Awards. We know have our home video release date of Dec 1st and I was told we’ll be one of four films highlighted at AFM in a few weeks. We are so excited to share this film with folks from around the world.
KNIGHT CHILLS which was CDI’s 1st feature film has been released on Blu-Ray and the special 1000 piece slip cover version sold out in a week. The classic edition can be still purchased at Vinegar Syndromes website. On Oct 30th several online retailers will start carrying it. We are in talks about some merchandise. Also discussions are underway to give FROM VENUS the same treatment.
WRAP UP:
My alumni MSU is not having a good game today I hear. I hope the Lions can kick it into high gear. I’m looking forward to capturing all the pieces of this film. And we’ll release SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA for the holidays. I’m going to lie low for a while and go to bed early for a 7am call time. I saw Randy Spence (My daddy in BEST YEARS GONE) a while ago and we have Garry Nation and Terence Knox in Alpena for the week ahead. It is nice to see these amazing artists. Melissa Anschutz is also on camera tomorrow bringing scenes to life. I will be excited to watch them work. Until next Sat! Coffee Cheers- yes coffee can be had at all hours on a movie set.
DJ
NEW Nominations, Updates and Announcements
(Above some of the CDI Tribe supporting the Capital City Film Festival Mixer- almost time again)
Hazelnut coffee toasts to you all on this sunny yet chilly Michigan morning. It has been a very busy few weeks and last week was no different. The best news was the completing all the film taxes and that was submitted. I’m awaiting my personal taxes to finish being prepared. It is important to stay up on all the BIZ with reporting cash movement every year. This year was quite smooth and we had a few bad weather days that are perfect for chaining yourself to the desk to ‘get R done’ and I did. We got an ice storm in Michigan but we were lucky and kept power the whole time. No big tree breakage which is good. We were teased with Spring and we are said to have a few more icy blasts coming but the birds are moving back in and the early signs of Spring are starting to slowly appear. Let’s take a look at some of the updates from the week.
- SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA, we’re still in our theatrical phase with several screens playing the film. We are looking at festivals and events. I don’t like these events where you pay to enter every category. I like one fee and look at everything and if it is nominated so be it. One event the Red Letter Awards which recognizes films with faith themes and certain recognitions to individuals. Here is what we were nominated for – BEST FILM -(Everyone!) BEST DIRECTOR – Anthony Hornus, BEST SCREENPLAY – DJ Perry, BEST ACTRESS –Cassie Dean, BEST ACTOR – Curran Jacobs and Bodhi Rader, BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR –Samuel Peterson and Shane Hagedorn. Congrats to all the nominated. It was cool to see the other films/people nominated. Many of the films are from studio and with budgets much higher but our own story rings through with the power of the story, performance and production. Jim Caviezel and Kelsey Grammar are among the other nominated talents. This is the first of a handful of festivals and events we will show at. We’re still filling theatrical play requests from bookers after you the people reach out to your theatre managers and request the film. Home Video talks will continue this week as well as exploring any other major theatrical expansion.
- Harsens Island Revenge, is starting to heat up. We’re getting in some requested acting reads. I did say that actors could post their reels to our CDI Facebook page but none arrived. That is okay. We like to look first within our inner circles of actors who we’ve worked with and had no issues with and were impressed with their performances. One of the actors we attached was Don Most (MBF, Lost Heart) and we’ll be announcing via formal PR in the coming weeks. I will announce today a few more from the tribe. Shane Hagedorn and Dean Teaster will be playing a great onscreen duo. I’m excited to see these roles come to life. On the crew side we’re in multiple talks but I’m happy to report that things have come full circle for us to add an amazing artists to our ranks. Several years ago I worked in Costa Rica on a TV show with the talented GW Burns. Very well known in photography circles not only for his powerful photos but creating amazing sets to capture. He is our new Production Designer, and we give him a major welcome to the CDI Tribe. We’ll continue having talks with proposed cast and crew. I look forward to watching several more reads this week during our production meetings. We are all excited to film this amazing story this Fall.
- SHJ– Supernatural Thriller associated film is developing nicely. We hope to put something more formal together in the coming weeks. A teaser poster is being developed and once this is all locked we’ll be casting and crewing for this. CDI would be the production company.
- FOR THE LOVE OF CATCH and II- The first one is out there and expanding its audience. The next film is being pulled together and is looking to film Spring/Summer. More on this soon and also look for our teaser poster in the coming weeks. We’ll be putting the foundation into this project and prepping for another great doc film in our series.
- SPIRIT LAKE MASSACRE – The first production draft of this script is done. Now we will start to do production breakdowns to see what it will take to film this. And lastly, we’ll move to the funding stage. Everything is a process of development and we’re excited to move this one to that important next step. The script is in the hands of some Native American associates to read over. Our Iowa historian did not see any mention-worthy, coloring out of the lines historically. This project is larger and will require some additional development, but will make an amazing story told on film. This film will be shot in Iowa.
(Easter ahead- Cool photo from Part 3 of The Quest Trilogy entitled “The Christ Slayer” – The Tomb)
I could go on about DEVELOPMENT of many new projects as the development process starts years in advance. I’m beyond excited to be once again building a team to tell this story. We’re prepping some of the older films in the CDI library to make a new entrance into the marketplace. I’m looking forward to a strong week of meetings and putting more blocks in place.
I’m excited to enter into discussions from various companies looking to align their brands with our upcoming projects. If you are interested in aligning your company as a product partner or sponsor please do reach out. We’ve had some amazing ones over the years and I’m looking forward to many more.
I’m going to work on getting a few things done around here and get ready for the new week, new month and new projects. I’m also very excited that soccer season is right around the corner. Our ‘old man’ team will be defending their last season championship win. I’m looking forward to the running and competition. Our league is very tough and I sincerely appreciate the work out I get win or lose. I’m coming into the season healthier, having worked out issues with a tweaked back. I’ve been training to be ready for battle on the pitch.
Until next week my friends. Thank you to all who stopped by last week and subscribed.
Coffee Cheers!
DJ
Premieres, Casting, Birthdays and More…
Good afternoon! I’m sitting here about to watch our Lions play football while filling all of you fine people in on the new develops. Last night we watched my alumni school Michigan State University fall short against Washington. Man, they had a hot quarterback who had his career best game. I hope todays outcome with the Lions is better.
FOR THE LOVE OF CATCH is having its premiere at the NCG Theaters in Owosso, MI on October 1st at 6pm ands 8:15pm with an afterglow that will likely be at Romas next door. This awesome project started with discussions around the table about the fighting arts and our director Curran Jacobs competitive runs both in MMA and twice capturing Catch-Can World Championships. What is Catch Can you say? That is why you need to watch and find out the common ancestry of many of the arts. You’ll learn about legends by legends of the grappling arts themselves. I’ll be attending with several of the CDI tribe to support the launch. If you want top see this on the big screen and meet the filmmakers, please do join us. Tickets will go on sale soon at the NCG Owosso. If you are unable to attend, the film will stream on Amazon Prime and likely Google Play, iTunes and more. CHECK IT OUT! Let us know your thoughts on our http://www.imdb.com page – See you there.
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA – Following the 4th release this year (For the Love of Catch) our WW2 Christmas film will premiere. The film is coming along great. We watched the second half of the film with the cleaned up dialog and the start of sound design. Music is going to start this week and that is one of my favorite parts of the process. The new theatrical trailer will start this week also. The premiere set up in Algona is coming together. They are limited in the area for places to show several hundred people at once. The one place that does seat a sizable number is lacking the right projection and audio equipment. The theatrical run will happen very soon after the Iowa premiere. We’ll be having a Michigan premiere also – we’ll focus on that once we get the Algona one finalized. It is all very exciting!
TOP TEN UPDATES
- A PR release will be going out about the slate of historic films CDI is involved with. Silent Night in Algona isn’t our first period film by any means but it will start a string of productions taking place at different times in our history. HARSENS ISLAND REVENGE is up next for CDI in 2023 taking audiences to the roaring 20’s smack dab in the middle of the prohibition. We’ve already started breaking in down and we’re starting select talks in advance of meeting with our keys. We’ll be posting casting notices later this year. It is a very cool time period to bring to the screen. I enjoyed adapting this script from the book of the same name.
- I’ve started writing on SPIRIT LAKE MASSACRE, which tells of the true events surrounding on-going conflict between the Iowa pioneers and the local Native Americans. I love writing in the 1800’s and I’m approaching this project with great reverence like all my stories. Between now and Christmas I’ll be writing this powerful drama. I LOVE this time period and couldn’t think of a better fall/winter project.
- SMOKE & MIRRORS, is our short concept film derived from the feature script. I think our plan is to put this up on CDI’s Youtube site for free as a thank you to all our fans. We’re looking at the autumn equinox Sept 22nd as a possible release date. It is so much fun and it shows how fun the feature can/will be. SPOOKY FUN
- BESTSELLER and BEST YEARS GONE going to Roku and Tubi has already increased the fan response. DOUBLE FEATURE! Enjoy! And thank you for all the great comments.
- I did a great interview with Bay Ragni last week talking all the films – please do take a watch/listen – https://youtu.be/GS7kg9Nf6fo
- The season of THE QUEST TRILOGY (Forty Nights, Chasing the Star and The Christ Slayer) lie just ahead. We’re soon to be celebrating one of the platforms Encourage TV racking up 2 million views.
- We are starting to put things in order for a special release of Ghost Town next year with Desktop Entertainment. The film is being digitally enhanced and we’ve got some fun things planned for the new release. Filmed at the world famous Ghost Town in the Sky.
- I need to circle back and see how progress is coming on the digital enhancement of KNIGHT CHILLS which will have a special Blu Ray and first streaming release in 2023. The video game is moving slowly but it’s moving. With all the 3D printers I need to see if I can do a 3D print of Sir Kallio from the video game.
- I’m happy to report that on the home front I was able to harvest all the hops. We also just brought in all the squash although a few got taken by the squirrels. I trimmed up the apple trees and have started in on the mulberry trees. I also got after some logs with the axe and my hammer/blade set up. What’s that, you say? It’s a large iron ring that surrounds a wide blade. You but a log down inside the ring on the blade and hammer it down like THOR! Let’s just say, I got one hell of a workout. My hammer and axe skills are better because of it.
- Last week we had a pair of birthdays we celebrated, Dennis Therrian and Melissa Anschutz who share a birthday. Fun note: Shane Hagedorn and Anthony Hornus share a birthday also. I had a few close childhood friends (Q, Big J) get a bit older. We are busy and that’s how we persist to push forward but we do take the time to enjoy the journey. Laughter is healing and health is wealth!
I’m going to work in the yard some more once the Lions finish their game, which so far they’re ahead 15-0. Go LIONS! I’m going to re-organize, re-charge and re-focus so we can have another great week ahead. We have some great meetings this week and I’m looking forward to a few scouting trips. I also know a few folks out there going through some hard times. We all take turns dealing with the hardships of life. So try to have more patience in dealing with people in your day to day. If you’re not dealing with anything heavy at this time be grateful. Pay attention to driving NOT your phone. I’ve seen way too many people way distracted. It totaled a neighbors vehicle but luckily did not badly injure or kill him. Leave earlier or arrive late but no need to push it. It can have bad repercussions. Okay. Enough warnings and sounding old- get off my lawn! Talk with you all next week.
DJ
Hear Ye! Michigan Renaissance Adventure and Movie TOP TEN Updates!
Happy Labor Day! So for those that did not get my message Saturday night, I went out of town Sunday to the Michigan Renaissance Festival with family. I had said that I would blog today so I can reflect on the festival. IF you ever go to one you should get their early as you can. By early afternoon every vendor has lines and the town looks like zombie attack in ye ole’ village.
Some things have changed over the years like the DED BOB show no longer running due to the passing of the performer. But many things have stayed the same. I started my morning with my first ever ‘scotch egg’ which is a hardboiled egg wrapped in sausage. A cider slushy while walking about looking at all the people and art. It is so cool because so many people are engaging their imaginations. It reminds me of Halloween in that way.
I thought for a moment of doing some dressing up for ‘Viking weekend’ but instead went for comfort. I have lots of rugged boots but ye old Sketchers won the footwear contest. We watched a tightrope walker and a joust which was fun. The niece and nephew had never been and they enjoyed themselves. A few rides and activities added to their fun. Soon as we all became hungry for lunch, the lines became longer than Odin’s beard, so we opted to leave and go to Ye Ole Buffalo Wild Wings.
Last week was a busy and exciting week in the world of movies. Let’s do a TOP TEN for the week and see where that takes us.
- Horror Film Lovers blog FIRST TIME WATCH FRIDAYS did us the joy of reviewing BESTSELLER, watch it here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bTnYvuI3gjI
- BESTSELLER has also started arriving at TUBI and other AD based video of demand – https://tubitv.com/movies/685420/bestseller
- Joining on TUBI is our recent release of BEST YEARS GONE – https://tubitv.com/movies/685418/best-years-gone?start=true
- You can read the PR about the above releases at https://www.prlog.org/12931464-best-years-gone-races-to-tubi-as-bestseller-stalks-right-behind.html
- This week we approved the billing block and art on FOR THE LOVE OF CATCH feature-length doc coming from Deskpop Entertainment. We’ll be releasing the artwork this week and we hope to officially announce a premiere date this week. We are waiting on an answer from the NCG in Owosso, MI. Once we get that approval we’ll do an overall PR release and start an event page. It will be available on streaming on Oct 4th and DVD 11/1/22.
- We have been prepping elements for GHOST TOWN to get a new push to the marketplace next year. New pictures are being enhanced as is the movie file. A new trailer will be coming along with updated artwork. The film will go out with a new deal underway with Desktop Entertainment.
- BMG Global is going to be launching FAST or Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV whereas watchers can watch films playing in rotation. Forty Nights, Lost Heart and Wild Faith have been chosen for their first line up of films. More as we get updates on this program.
- Shane Hagedorn has started lining up SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA theatrical to run after our Iowa premiere. We’ll also be doing a Michigan premiere and the films will play several theaters. How many exactly is yet to be seen.
- SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA is progressing down the post production line. We’re suppose to see the color corrected version of the film any day now. VFX continues and we’re also putting a new theatrical trailer together that will show at AFM. The German translation is also being worked upon and if all these things come together we’ll soon have a finished film.
- I’ve been researching my next script writing endeavor even while waiting on final paperwork. I’m anxious to do some PR on this exciting project once the ink is dry. But I will give way this one little hint- it takes place in the 1800’s a favorite time period of mine.
I think we’ll do some grilling and chilling today. I want to make time to watch the new ELVIS movie. Also the new RINGS OF POWER Tv series pilot is on my list. This week I’ve got an online interview set up on Thursday and I’ll promote that in a day or so. I’ll be talking all the new film releases and anything that comes up. I’ve almost harvested all the hops. I have some end of season tree trimming that needs to happen. Also the yard is about ready for a mow with all the rain. I’m excited for football season to continue. MSU won their first game and they look like they’ll have a good year. I’m going to go refill the ye ole coffee cup and get on with my day. Until next Sunday, be good to one another.
DJ
HELLO CLEVELAND! Updates From Indie-Gathering and More…
I’m back in my comfy chair sipping on some hazelnut coffee having just returned from a dentist cleaning. I’m writing on this fine Michigan Monday after returning late last night from Cleveland, Ohio. Some of our BEST YEARS GONE team traveled for the 27th Indie Gathering International Film Festival. It was nice to be around storytellers and talk our craft. It was extra special because we were joined by Detroit filmmaker Harley Wallen representing ASH & BONE, a cool horror film that is a true tip of the hat to some classics. I have to say that actress Erika Hoveland gave a funny, disturbing performance in ASH & BONE and does an incredible job in BEST YEARS GONES, as Sylvia. It was cool to have Michigan filmmaking represented and Erika co-starred in both films. Shane Hagedorn, directed and co-starred in BEST YEARS GONE and also had a supporting role in ASH & BONE. Amazing to watch these films almost back-to-back and to see the range of Erika and Shane’s performances. I only appeared in BEST YEARS GONE but I’m humbled to say I received the festivals ‘Best Actor‘ award, for my Gil Gilles performance. Gil, Gil, Gil…he is truly a character and if you have not seen either of these films you can watch BEST YEARS GONE now on Amazon Prime, iTunes, Google and more. ASH & BONE releases in October. Congrats to Harley and his team. Congrats to all the folks at the Indie Gathering. We had some great Mexican eating also. Thank you Melissa Anschutz and Deskpop Entertainment.
Soon I will unpack and likely take a nap. The above film event in Cleveland kept me up past my bedtime. I’ve got a good sleep pattern down and closing down a bar mixer was already over my sleepy time but we had to pass on the 2am to dawn tailgate with grilling and games. If I was 24 I would have been there but…and I’m still tired. We talk about that often. Sleep. Many like to impress folks with how much midnight oil they burn. How hard their grinding. But I can say, that experience and life has shown me that good rest results in better quality use of time. You can say, I worked eight hours straight but how productive were you. Some can do the same work in three focused hours with good rest behind them. Even those meditations, sleep shut down for even 15-30 min can reboot you. Sometimes when flustered people will say, I don’t have the time to take a rest. What results is often mistake-ridden, half-ass work versus taking a few moments and getting better results.
I’ll get my rest on soon enough but I wanted to get some updates out to all of you. BEST YEARS GONE, might have 1-2 more special events planned but it’s now spreading out to different areas of the world on home video.
OTHER UPDATES:
- Going to PR the release dates and info on the premiere for FOR THE LOVE OF CATCH, once locked in.
- VFX, Color Correction, Music and Sound Design on SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA is in full swing. Interested theatre chains are starting to give their interest. We have to lock down details on the Algona premiere this month. A new theatrical trailer will also be coming in advance of the premiere.
- HARSENS ISLAND REVENGE development work will continue in full. We’ll be looking to lock our dates for next year. Some scouting will happen this year also – so exciting to be able to tell this story. This is another epic period action/drama and it will be one fun ride.
- I am debating a few moves on SMOKE & MIRRORS, our short concept film. We might just post it for everyone to watch. It’s a really cool, stylized piece and I think folks will really enjoy it. We will get around to this feature script in the near future.
- BESTSELLER, the thriller from the mind of Chris Knight is playing to home video audiences. We have a few reviews and interviews coming up. This film really keeps you on the edge of your seat once things start rolling. If you enjoy these kind of spin-chill films, take a watch.
I’m not going to carry on and on today as I need to unpack and catch up on a few things, rest being one of them. I’m glad that I’m making the effort to slow down and enjoy some of the wins. God knows we’ve had our losses. But I’m really starting to realize that these things happen in their own time. I’m trying to be better at being happy for the personal wins. I’ve found in the past that personal recognition often came with resentment and some form of negativity from others. I found it interesting that after winning that ‘Best Actor’ award which was a nice metal medallion on some olympic-like neck strap. Without thinking about it, I just slipped it into a pocket and carried on. I did not wear it around. It wasn’t a decision with myself – should I wear it? Yes? No? I never thought that. I believe I was thinking about the second half of my burrito that the lunch waiter accidentally threw away instead of wrapping up. My acting might be good but my hand communicating isn’t. “Wrap it up in foil please,” came out as “toss it out” please. Okay, I’ve wandered. My point is, that if my getting recognized gets more eyes to watch our collective art or help projects get made, I’m happy. Does my ‘self’ need the personal recognition? It doesn’t appear that way but maybe deep down, I’m sure it does. The writer in me is really proud of all these stories. I’ve had a few nominations on my writing and I do recall that feeling good. Honestly, I did not expect to win. I mean, come on, it’s Gil Gilles. BUT, folks do seem to like ole, Gil. So from Gil and I, I want to give one more whole-hearted thank you. I’m going to go unpack and try to get my flow back in order. I’ll be back with you all on Sunday, our normal day. Until- Coffee Cheers!
DJ
Happy 4th of JULY, 2022- Weekend: BEST YEARS GONE Home Video Premiere and More…
Good morning, hazelnut cheers and thank you to all the new international readers from S. Korea, Ireland, China, UK, Brazil and more. Here is the USA we’re about to celebrate our independence day (July 4th) from the good ole UK. I’ve been super busy on many fronts but I’ve been able to balance it with some wonderful nature. For my recent bday I got some large wind chimes that go nicely with the sounds of the water fountain. (A 50th Bday gift) The plants have all been watered and the dogs tended to. The chickens are enjoying the morning clucking about. The hops, berries (mulberry, raspberry and blueberries) have been exploding. The apple trees are doing pretty good. One of them struggled a bit with the past heat and seems to be doing better now. Let’s go ahead and get into the news.
BEST YEARS GONE – This movie was made during the hardest time of the pandemic and brought our cast and crew much joy. We saw the film bring much laughter and a few tears in the limited theatrical run. The theaters were still trying to get back on their feet during that time. But now, on JULY 5th in two short days you will be able to buy the DVD or stream it. Amazon, Best Buy, Vudu and so on. Just google us up or follow the Facebook site for updates. One of the first major reviews was by Film Threat, link below.
You never know how the mass market will take any film, but they seemed to really like it and we think you will too. I also want to acknowledge the praise they gave me but say that if I did not have the awesome cast around me, the film doesn’t work. I love the music (Dennis Therrian) with added songs by various great bands including our BATTLE OF THE BANDS winner Vertical Bridge!
Watch the music video here –
IF you decide to take a watch visit our page at http://www.imdb.com and you can VOTE for your self and leave your own review.
LOOKING FOR A DOUBLE FEATURE or something to watch tonight/tomorrow on the run up to our release?
BESTSELLER, a spooky thriller just released on May 31st. Melissa Anschutz leads a great cast with myself, Ralph Lister, Terence Knox, Lana Wood and more…
Read about it here –
Watch it here!
These two films releasing is very exciting and represents a lotta hard work by our artists but we’ve got so much more happening.
- The first festival that invited SMOKE & MIRRORS was Michigan’s own MOTOR CITY NIGHTMARES. It is a weekend of convention fun, celebrity signings (I was asked but, no I’m not doing any official signings, but if you track me down with a pen I will and the cost – ZERO:) You cannot ala carte the screenings so the cost might be too costly if planning to just go see the 16-17 min film. We play at like 5:20 in a block and I plan to try and arrive at 5pm. I’m solo with the dogs so I’ll be just doing a 6-7 hour trip with drive time of 45 min or so to Novi. I think they have a party but it’s later in the eve so the post party will likely be back at home:) But this short film is so much fun. We filmed this concept film taken from one of my feature scripts in one day as part of a commercial project. It will likely play a few more venues this year so join the Facebook page and make sure to catch it where you can. David Gries and Melissa Anschutz and brilliant in the film and it has some fun supporting characters. I just might play one of them but if turn of the century/steampunk is your jam, this might be for you. July 30th! NOVI! MOTOR CITY NIGHTMARES.
- I will also note being from Lansing, MI that another fine artist/filmmaker, Michael McCallum/Rebel Pictures, has two short films playing right after SMOKE & MIRRORS. One is CHOICES and one is PHOTALGIA. So if you are watching our film you can stay a few and watch a couple other films. I’m sure the entire day has some great films to watch.
- SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA, the rough cut is done and our director has been feeding notes back to our editor. We’ll review the rough cut with our director changes soon and by months end will have a locked picture. Here is a great video showing some of the VFX/model work being done. WATCH THE VIDEO here – https://fb.watch/e1nJ7CbDvg/
- We also have a new SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA poster being worked on and the new theatrical trailer work will be starting soon. We are looking to have the first showing in Algona on Dec 10th if everything stays according to plan.
- FOR THE LOVE OF CATCH has made the final fixes and tweaks working with Deskpop Entertainment on quality control. We should have our home video release dates soon and by next month (Aug 3rd) we should know about the TORONTO FILM FESTIVAL.
- I’ve finished the first draft of HARSENS ISLAND REVENGE, slated to shoot in 2023. I have my producers taking a read and if all comes back good without any problem areas to clarify it will go to the publisher. WW1 Veterans vs The Purple Gang during the prohibition. But this is what I call passive pre-production. It has committed funds but doesn’t shoot until later next year because of the script/story.
- HOT ROD LOVE, is in active development – and reunites director Shane Hagedorn and Director of Photography, Travis Hayward from BEST YEARS GONE. We are in talks on an amazing attachment that true fans of drag racing will love. Also a few amazing sponsors are being courted so with a little bit of hard work and some final commits we will look to film in October 2022, in a few short months.
- HASTINGS, the developing Wild Faith TV series spin off had more productive discussions this week. WILD FAITH, which just released with MAN’S BEST FRIEND to PeacockTV which could assist in the ordering up of the first season. We’ll see. We have several parties in talks and something will give. It is nearing 6 million viewers on just our distributor’s platform ENCOURAGE TV. Many of the CDI films can be seen here free with ads.
- I’ve noted that our Civil War film WICKED SPRING, now presented in HD is getting love on Amazon and the platforms it plays on. This film is 22 years old and still getting new audiences yearly. I know many classrooms that have used the film as a teaching aide. If you want to watch something about America’s history this might be for you.
- We’re working hard to plan and fund the next several years of CDI films. We are having some good traction in that department but I will wait as always to the ink is dry. I don’t do the mysterious teases on social media for hype. Okay, maybe once in a great while but I like keeping the cards close until we show our hand. Four Aces:)
I’ve just finished some eggs and toast and I’m going to do a few tasks around the yard. A short trip to the store to take back empties from our meetings. And I plan to fire up the grill today and tomorrow. Maybe even bottle up the HOPPY GRAPE APE wine. I have a beer mix up next which I will put into motion for this fall. As I’ve said before, I might even do another go on the hard cider. Next week we’ll be attending the 4H where we assist young people in their college studies by purchasing their livestock. That and the venison make up most of the meat eating around here.
After a loss, our soccer team was back in form last week in a hard fought victory. My body has adapted to the hardships of the weekly battles, and now only experiences some mild stiffness versus the first quarter of the season where I felt like I was hit by a truck weekly. Whatever your outdoor activity is, get out there and do it. I’m going to end this here and go get a few things down in the yard. Have a safe 4th of July weekend. I hope you hit the ground running next week and get things done. Coffee Cheers until next week.
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
CDI Top Ten Updates and Coffee Talk on World Events.
I’m sitting and sipping the hazelnut coffee with “Luna” beside me. She is the rescue that we’ve been working into our family mix. Right now she and Finn our co-existing nicely together yer still apart. Finn has had a few small issues but Luna is so laid back she just ignores him. She wants to go full into play and such with the handsome Finn but we’re taking it slow. We’ve been taking them on some good walks together which is helping them bond.
In other news, this entire deal with Russia and Urkraine is very disheartening to see. I don’t think the Russian people and soldiers are all about this conflict. But the Russian people are limited in how much they can protest. I think we as Americans are being reminded of what patriotism, bravery and unity looks like. Having just emerged from studying and immersing myself in WW2 it’s interesting the differences. Up to the moment broadcast media, social media and the closer communication of the world is showing a major difference. Now social media shaming isn’t going to stop a die-hard dictator bent on conquering. The Ukraine isn’t going to lie down and so winning a few battles versus holding captured ground is gonna be near impossible. I hope this resolves quickly and doesn’t spread. I’m not sure Putin planned to stop with taking Ukraine. The world isn’t going to stand by while this happens. Let’s hope world peace is restored soon.
While things are playing out on the world stage in our film family circles some are still fighting the last lingering Covid. Our own Greg Mason, who has been with CDI since film one “Knight Chills” has been fighting Covid in the hospital. He was in a serious bad way in ICU where they almost put him on a vent. But he improved and if it continues he might be downgraded to a room today. Also one of our hometown (Lansing, MI) artistic duos Michael and William McCallum need your well wishes as William is in the hospital. There is a tragedy torch that is passed around from person to person losing loved ones. We’ve all had our turns and we’ll all have several more. So be kind to people and challenge yourself daily to be grateful. I’m wishing the best for any that are facing such hardships. UPDATE: just got word Greg Mason has been moved to the step down unit and is sleeping and improving!
Let’s do a ‘TOP TEN updates’ from last week-
- The BTS promo for ‘SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA‘ was released this week. It was edited by Adam Towner who worked with our crew. It shows the hardworking CDI cast and crew working to tell our WW2 Holiday story based on true events. Watch here: https://youtu.be/KdcpzV9Ex5Y
- We have a new expended distribution deal offer on ‘Darkest Night,’ a found footage in association horror film that was produced in the Philippines. I will keep you all up to date on new releases. It is my only found footage film and I play the male lead in the film. It was such a great project to film and promote and I made lifelong friends on that set.
- HOT ROD LOVE has assigned the first investor units and we are in discussions with several others. Also we’re starting talks with sponsors that will align their brands with this upcoming film.
- With the business developments on HOT ROD LOVE, we’re moving along nicely and so we’ve started our initial development meetings with our director Shane Hagedorn on cast and crew. Part of this is evaluation of past performance. In this situation most all our crew are up to task and very talented in their roles. What we’ve looking for is overall positive attitude and those that “play well with others,” respectfully and with some gratitude of how hard our job is. CDI is not some faceless corporation but a multi-generational company of artists who have built everything with blood, sweat and tears.
- I can say that one of the upcoming castings for this film will be for Native American actors. We have two co-stars we’ll be seeking. We’ve already been looking at several Native American comedians also. Do we have any Michigan based Native American actors and comedians? We are going to find out.
- FOR THE LOVE OF CATCH is about to sign our worldwide distribution deal. This wonderful and educational documentary is being hailed as the best of its kind. Once signed this week we’ll be directing our attention at the official premiere. For our enthusiastic director Curran Jacobs this has been a slow process but things take time. And the wait will be worth it and I think this will be the go to watch for all wrestlers and enthusiasts for many years to come. Better yet, the non-profit that produced this with CDI’s guidance will be helping many veteran programs and wrestling programs all across the country for many years to come.
- Here is another great article on our friend Don Most and the movie LOST HEART. Read here – https://bestlifeonline.com/ralph-malph-happy-days-don-most-now-news/ If you have not seen this film please do on Amazon Prime, Encourage TV and more!
- CDI’s performance video for the rock band DEEPFALL came out great and the band loved it. It was shot by Carl Weyant and Travis Hayward and Carl served also as director/editor. I think this is the first in a series of videos. As soon as the video is released we will share the link.
- CDI Commercial Division is also ramping up. In the past I’ve let several commercial opportunities go by as we wanted to focus on feature film. We have several production units and can use our expertise to pick the right creative team for your commercial endeavor.
- I hear rumor that the new BESTSELLER artwork is forthcoming. Our distributor DESKPOP ENTERTAINMENT will start presenting to licensors in March. I think now that the film is getting a full home video release that it will find a great international audience.
I’m going to wrap this up and prepare to take the dogs on a walk as we work to get them use to one another. Again I hope all of you have a great week at whatever you are working upon. Think of those having some hardships and be kind to one another. I might have one more coffee before heading out into the cold. But spring is coming you can feel it!
DJ
A Sudden Loss of a Loved One Teaching the Lesson of Living Full
A light snow falling on this Sunday, making the hazelnut coffee taste oh, so good. So we shared a wonderful morning last week and the day was nice with us hunkering down and riding out the snowstorm. Little did I know that later that eve, maybe 10:30 pm , our oldest fur daughter Daphne had a spell of weakness while going potty outside. I had to carry her into the house and she sat for an hour on her daddies lap. She wasn’t in pain just weak and we all gathered and spent time with her on the couch. She later got a touch hot from all the cuddles and blankets and wanted to lay on the floor. She stayed at our feet and rested. We decided to all sleep down with her and before drifting off to sleep I watched her sit up and walk into her create, spinning into her favorite position. We gazed at one another – those old eyes that held the puppy playfulness even at dinner just hours earlier. She was relaxed and peaceful and I drifted off to sleep watching her drift off. She passed in the wee hours maybe around 4:30 am or in her sleep. She has been one of the joys living in the background of my life for the last 14+ years and her loss was deeply felt. But she had gone on her terms as she always has, surrounded by her pack and without any suffering. She is now home, her little wood box joins her brother and sister who had passed before her. Our Finn is doing well to adjusting and we’ve made a point of keeping it upbeat and happy after our day of remembrance and grieving. It is now truly the age of Finn and we plan to give him many loving adventures. That will likely include a new brother or sister to romp and play with. Daphne was 11 when we brought Finn into our home and so he never got that dynamic. Luckily Finn’s neighborhood friends have been here to play and race, giving him some of his normal joys. Anyway, RIP to our baby girl she brought so much joy to us over the years. Things can change just like that so be grateful and never take time with friends and family for granted.
FILM UPDATES:
Read about our new film and the announcement of the director and director of photography.
https://www.prlog.org/12904790-director-named-for-collective-development-incs-film-hot-rod-love.html
This is HOT off the first wins for BEST YEARS GONE at the Maverick Film Awards.
We are going to start circulating our business proposal on our next CDI film looking to shoot in June with a May prep. We are returning to our home turf of Michigan and the time period will be 1975. That means some far out wardrobe and groovy music. I’m beyond excited to return to a much more simple time and tell this story. If you have a business that might want to align for brand with ‘HOT ROD LOVE,’ feel free to reach out.
I also had some great development talks this week over WILD FAITH: Hastings and more. We are on the cusp of some great business that will have the tribe hard at work for a few years. The amazing feature which serves as a pilot WILD FAITH, is going to get featured for Black History Month and is a great watch. It isn’t heavy handed with agenda just a good story that has natural lessons woven throughout much like LITTLE HOUSE ON THE PRARIE.
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA is pushing ahead strong with editing and FX work. I’m looking to see if our Behind the Scenes video is getting close. I wanted to have a sweetheart treat for everyone but if it doesn’t release tomorrow I’m guessing this week. We’ve been releasing more photos and I should have another batch from DP Daniel Chipman showing even more of the characters. I will be following up on that this week too. I know that director Anthony Hornus (Tony) has been outlining ideas for the first official teaser. That will start once the BTS releases.
FOR THE LOVE OF CATCH – The first draft of paperwork is being put together for a worldwide release with Deskpop Entertainment. We will also be doing a pow wow and coming up with a plan for the theatrical premiere release. Maybe even something with MSU, we will see.
Speaking of Deskpop Entertainment, I’m excited to see the artwork for the thriller BESTSELLER. This film is one of the most intense performances I’ve given. I have a couple of mega-intense films I’ve done, DEADLY RENOVATIONS and THE 8th PLAGUE come to mind. But looking at intensity and production value, I think BESTSELLER is right near the top. We captured Michigan in the fall at the perfect time showcasing the “Tunnel of Trees” and more. Plus it has a great leading lady in it that I’ve seen somewhere before:)
This week will be shifting gears in development. We’ll be talking some advance casting and crewing talks but until the business is locked we cannot make offers. But something tells me we will be revving up engines in a few short months. I’m looking forward to also ‘developing’ the homestead this spring. We have some nice yard improvements being made and I look forward to some outdoor meetings over darts and corn hole.
Even in the time of writing this I saw that a director friend of mine lost their lovely dog this morning. So the torch of tragedy or sadness is something we all hold at one time or another so give graces to those around you. You don’t always know what people are dealing with and we all are dealing with things as that is life. Okay enough typing but I do LOVE catching up with you all. I going to go get on with life and enjoy it. Maybe starting with another hazelnut coffee.
Take care and be good to one another.
DJ
Filters of Attitude = Finding Your Balance
The hazelnut coffee taste so good on this chilly Sunday morning. We got a record setting 13 inches when the snow storm came through. We might get a bit more later in the day. I for one love the beauty of the snow but I’m ready to move on to Spring. We had a “Viking” day chopping wood to keep the wood stove roaring. I’m excited to implement many new improvements to the property this year. Our moving of veggies and herbs to raised beds and turning the garden into chicken land has been fun. They are fun to watch like little Dinosaurs.
I want to say that everyday that I read about someones untimely passing it reminds me to love what I’m doing and the people I’m doing it with. That is professionally and personally. I know friends and family that have lost pets, parents, grandchildren and even one past film peer was announced to have passed away. I was not extremely close with him but exchanged communications over the years when either of us has a new success. The sad thing about the last mentioned loss was that it may have happened by their own infliction. I’ve had a few friends over the years that fight real mental battles with themselves. I think on some levels we all do but some cope poorly where others eventually find their way out of the forest.
I’ve had dark days in my past whereas my parents divorced after 30 years putting me in the middle and my acting career was struggling. Michigan’s film scene in the late 80’s and into the 90’s was lacking. I see folks complaining about a lack of opportunities today and chuckle. Today is like a sea of opportunity versus the 90’s. Also post tax incentives the term filmmaker became legit to the common everyday person. Much of my darkness was knowing what I wanted but not having any guides or mentors in that field. My dearest mentor, my father, was rightfully concerned. I had essentially came home and told my father I was going to be an astronaut. Again something made more realistic thanks to the billionaire space race. But he knew how easy life could be if I took the easier road, the practical road. His concerns came after several years yielded very little, in his mind. Failure can affect people different.
A certain amount of punishment and failure can break some and force them into a secondary or pie-life. Pie-Life is when you work X amount of the pie to earn shells and beads ($) so you can freely enjoy the remaining part of the pie, your life. A few years in the real world and most have sufficiently built a standard of living prison around them that forces them to stay the course with the survival job, pie-life. For others of us that have “it” (passion) bad and refuse to let go no matter how much rough ground they’re dragged over. I felt like Indiana Jones being dragged behind that Nazi truck hauling the ark. (Raiders of the Lost Ark) I climbed hand over hand up the whip, climbed on the truck’s bumper, over the side, kick in the doors, punch and throw the driver out and took over the truck. BAM!
If someone can do something else occupational and be happy living the ‘pie life’ or even something close to contentment, do it. But if you are stricken with that passion that will not leave you, embrace it. By that I mean stop being half-ass and whining and do those things you were afraid to try. Pull your confidence, self-worth and inner fire from your own personal well and don’t just try to pull energy from people. When people feel your personal geothermal-like creative energy, they will be drawn. People who draw energy from the masses is a slave to the masses. Now artists create for the masses but often to show a perspective. Life is all about perspective and perception. What we perceive can be seen via positive or negative filters. A failure might be seen as negative but in deductive reasoning it can be a positive. An elusive goal might have just been made easier to obtain as certain roads are found to be dead-ends. No more time wasted or spent. Although some will get caught in that loop, beware.
So the negative of loss that I see each day ever since we’ve all become so much more inter connected as a society, can be a positive fuel to live and pursue dreams and goals. I’m so proud of one of my associates who set out to write and take a few children’s books to market and he has. Tomorrow isn’t promised. A beautiful and haunting statement. Life is a mysterious and short phase of existence and so I would ask that those out there questioning, stay the course. Ride life and learn whatever lessons you can but best of all is learn to be the best you. I’ve said this before, the path to your dreams sometimes lies in helping others with theirs. I know some people will say I’ve helped their journey immensely and others will say, I have not. The truth is you can’t help everyone. You can inspire by your actions to pass it on. I’ve had mentors and I try to mentor. But I come from that martial arts background and sports. To take valuable time from some teachers you have to be prepared and focused, ready to learn. You can apply that lesson to teachers in school. Respect that they are there to try and teach you.
Let’s bring this around to movies, my favorite medium. It also includes some of my favorite artists, filmmakers. Last week we were treated to the announcement that BEST YEARS GONE was multi-nominated and won a few awards. The biggest award being BEST PICTURE which is great because it embodies the collective effort.
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA is soundly in post. A BTS (behind the scenes) video is being worked on and the first look teaser is being outlined. Meanwhile the feature is being cut with the first rough being done by mid March. We’ll keep rolling out some new photos while we wait for these first videos.
HOT ROD LOVE is the next CDI picture and we’re looking to prep in May and shoot in June. It’s a heartfelt comedy that has many classic 70’s and 80’s influences. We’re putting our investor/sponsor presentation materials together, but the truly exciting news coming this week is the announcement of a director and Dir of Photography- Mr. Shane Hagedorn and Travis Hayward. This re-teaming is building on the previous chemistry of BEST YEARS GONE, coming to home video starting in June. Our #1 goal with BEST YEARS GONE was to have fun filming. The Covid lockdowns had beaten everyone down and the humor and fun making the film translated to the final product. That laughter is the big take away from the theatrical playdates thus far. The world needs more laughter right now.
WILD FAITH: HASTINGS – More great discussions on this TV series spin off. I have follow ups first thing this coming week. It is going to happen, I’m just trying to follow the best road to production that keeps the integrity intact. Have you seen the feature WILD FAITH? Take a watch. Leave a review on imdb.com or the film’s amazon page and let us know if a sequel interests you. I love the idea of how many folks will be involved should the tv series happen.
The WEEK ahead-
This week is wrapping up end-of-year tax materials for the films. I actually got almost all my personal tax stuff around. This year has been quite smooth so far thanks to our amazing team. I’ve also been keeping my daily screenwriting happening. I’m deep into another comedy script from a treatment I’ve been bouncing around for years. I’ve got my next work-for-hire script/production coming up. It is an adaptation from a book, which I’ve almost finished. I’m really excited about the time period and the storyline. One other work-for-hire script/production is in discussion. Everything in their own time. But I find these cold days are the best for screenwriting.
Last week we talking about video game development and more which haven’t advanced too much in the past week. I got buried in numbers for a few days. But several projects including animation and a music video are in development. It is a busy time but as we discussed prior, get doing- if that is your calling. I have lots to work out in the coming weeks as we’re also in some serious production talks that could be a multi-year commitment. I laugh, because it’s all really a multi-year, lifetime commitment. It’s all a process to try and streamline funding and production. Balance. It’s all about balance. I’m going to bring this to a close. I have some writing to attend to and a few things to do around the homestead.
Be good to one another and coffee cheers.
DJ
‘BEST YEARS GONE’ Races Into Their First Festival with a Checkered Flag! Plus 10 CDI Updates
Happy Sunday! I’m sipping the hazelnut coffee and happy that we did not get hit by that huge east coast storm. It went under us meaning we got the cold and a few snow flakes but not 20+ inches of snow. This past week flew by with me attacking the gathering of info for our accounting firm. This coming week the 1099’s will go out and I’ve been prepping things for end of year taxes also. We had one day this week we chose as “Viking Thursday” to cut firewood. We actually damaged the axes breaking one handle and losing the head on another. That means I’m in Axe fix mode this week but we got the job done using sledge hammers, wedges and a splitting ring. A splitting ring is a device that you place the log inside resting on a blade and hammer it down to split it. That day we worked was bitter but we got enough split for the next week or two.
The next CDI feature film is looking to be HOT ROD LOVE. The script is getting some amazing feedback and this week I’ll be breaking down more of the business aspects. We are looking at trying to hit an April/May shoot in Michigan. We’ll be announcing more on this property as we go. Now wait, didn’t CDI just do a race theme film? Yes. But that was circle track racing and this is drag racing. The CDI Race Trilogy? Haha, not really, maybe. The film is a comedy with some nice life lessons attached but it could be our biggest comedy to date.
BREAKING NEWS! So BEST YEARS GONE is prepping for its home video premiere run in June-Sept and in the meantime we’ll keep playing some theaters and also a few select film events. I will say that I’m not a fan of virtual events but with all these festivals going remote one thing stands out to me. Often the filmmakers that show up at the event and smoke have a better chance of winning because the fest gets a good acceptance speech (sometimes). So to me the one positive is that the films are really being evaluated on the content vs the political ‘schmooze’ factor. Our director Shane Hagedorn submitted us to a few select festivals. We announced that we had our first official acceptance into –
We found our yesterday that we were nominated for the following categories and actually won a few award. I’m so proud of this film and the cast and crew involved. First the SCREENPLAY was Nominated as one of the best. I appreciate this nomination greatly as I love writing and believe it is the foundation of every great film. Without a good battle plan you don’t have a real chance. I also think that having such strong source material from Karl Manke (book Hope From Heaven) also helped.
I feel our entire cast could have been nominated for the rich roles they brought to the story but this organization nominated three actors for awards. Melissa Anschutz and Randy Spence for BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS and ACTOR. It is only due to all these supporting performances especially by my costar Erika Hoveland that allowed me to be nominated and actually win BEST ACTOR for my work as ‘Gil Gilles’. But that’s not all-
As we all know the technical people behind the scenes help create and capture the world/story. I again believe that many of the crew were nomination worthy but Mr. Travis Hayward was nominated and WON for BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY. And finally, my favorite nomination and WIN…
This award represents the TRIBE! We all made this picture what it is and again I’m just so proud of our cast and crew and excited for the world audience to see this film. Here is a great statement from our director Shane Hagedorn. But first a quote from a legend.
What we do come up with has no special right to call itself better. It’s just different. No, if there’s any excuse for us at all, it’s that we’re simply following the old American tradition of the maverick”.
-Orson Welles
And from our director-
“I am thrilled for our cast and crew on these major wins and nominations from Maverick Movie Awards. Although we filmed through the height of the pandemic of 2020, our tribe of artists and crafts folk banded together to create something unique and special–all the while overcoming many obstacles while doing so. Thanks to the team at Maverick for recognizing our art and best efforts”.
-Shane Hagedorn
Our release dates can be found on our IMDB.com page and updates are flowing out to our FB page also. I also want to take a moment to give congrats to my fellow local filmmaker/actor Michael McCallum, who was also nominated in the shorts division for ‘Best Actor’ and I believe had a few other nominations between two (?) shorts they had represented. I’m not 100% sure on all the nominations but I wanted to tip my hat. Two filmmaker groups from Lansing, Michigan getting noticed in London, England, nice.
Let me see if I can do a bullet point of some of the weeks activities-
- More “Silent Night in Algona” stills are being released on FB and soon (Feb) we’ll release a BTS video. Editing is underway with a first cut expected by mid-March.
- “SMOKE & MIRRORS” the short proof of concept short cut from the feature script is uploaded to film freeway and a few choice festivals will be chosen for this steampunk, spooky short starring David Gries and Melissa Anschutz.
- We are moving closer to a deal on FOR THE LOVE OF CATCH, our doc on the history of grappling/wrestling directed by our own Curran Jacobs.
- A verbal agreement has been made on moving forward with an app video game based on CDI’s first feature film from the 90’s KNIGHT CHILLS. The film is a cautionary tale about bullying woven into the awesome realm of role playing games like Dungeons & Dragons. Paperwork will follow this week.
- Look on Facebook ENCOURAGE TV for my buddy Josh “Ponceman” Perry promoting BIGFOOT, UFO’S & JESUS. If you haven’t seen the film you should. It is a fun romp and ‘Chip’ Josh Perry is a show stealer. https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=4724060584352381&id=124174114296086&ref=sharing&_rdr
- In the wake of THE QUEST TRILOGY push that will continue through Easter has brought up discussions on a couple other possible films set in the time of sand and sandals. These films come from a unique perspective different from most biblical adventures. So even if organized religion is not your thing, you might enjoy these three films which purposely shoot in a ‘Star Wars‘ original trilogy style.
- WILD FAITH and the developing WILD FAITH: Hastings TV series are growing stronger. As millions view the feature each year, enjoy the storytelling, the eight show series is getting closer. Now as people are getting back to work I hope to move some major pieces on the chessboard with this TV series.
- BESTSELLER is finally getting the home video release it deserves. I cannot wait to see the new artwork and such. It goes to digital rental I believe same day as BEST YEARS GONE (Sept 1st, 2022) This script is adapted from the book of the same name written by Michigan’s own Christopher Wright.
- I hope to do a follow up meeting soon to see what the evaluation of some of the old CDI library films yields at BMG. Some would need to be uprezed and conformed but that would be cool to see! Are you hoping for any one film in particular to come to the market in HD?
- WICKED SPRING is being introduced to new audiences and old audiences are getting to stream the film in HD. I want to try and do some collectors merchandise on this film in 2022. I’m thinking about a collectors poster. If you enjoy merchandise we have several items up from various films at the http://www.cdiproductions.com site.
I’m going to wrap this up and get on some bacon and eggs. Our chickens are doing well even with the frigid cold they are still kicking out eggs. I might look into my axe situation. This week ahead will be productive. I’m doing some more writing and have two other potential script writing projects. I do enjoy that writing time especially when it is freezing outdoors. If I missed anything – forgive me. This week I wish you all well and remember to have patience and be good to one another.
DJ
DJ Perry's Official Blog 'Clawing My Way to the Middle' 