‘Wild Faith’ Feedback & More…
I’m sitting in my big leather chair by my electric fire – The Candleberry Candle and sipping the hazelnut coffee. I’ve got sleeping dogs around me happy to have me back into the fold of the pack.
Shane Hagedorn rolling with the Collective Development OG’s:)
I’ve just returned from running with another pack of artists filmmakers creating an 1800’s action drama. I can honestly say it was some of the best fun I’ve had in many years. It reunited me with many friends and artists some that worked together last in this genre a decade ago.
Production Designer Jen Raine & Art Director Austin Two Feathers
It introduced me to a slew of new artists who I think appreciate the Collective Development Inc. approach and take to filmmaking. We use to do this as children for free – the make-believe. And now to pay people to create that same fun but with bigger toys and doing it day after day until we get our puzzle pieces. I got to observe seasoned film warriors work side by side with what will be the next generation of film warriors. I saw people realize that within a powerful problem solving group strong art can be born. I saw people forget past dealings with others and give us a chance to be a positive experience. I’m developing key crews and key to me starts with a 100% positive attitude. You can make several mistakes giving your best effort and from me you will get mentoring and compassion. That positive attitude is hard for many to keep in this industry – you don’t have to dig far to hear the horror stories. I’m a person who dislikes having my time wasted, who does? I’ve got several ways I can waste my own time and still enjoy it – I don’t need waste imposed upon me. I do shun people who purposely waste my time with unreasonable. Do I have any examples to help illustrate? Perhaps…
A mix of acting talent on set #wildfaith
THE BAD
One acting role in our recent film underwent several discussions before falling to a very talented, 200% positive (through the roof) ready for success gent. The first major look came by association – one of our producers had worked with this person. A read that was strong and a direction was set – but full disclosure of a change in residence lost this person the role.
Another option – a young hopeful gives a good read but ultimately has no vehicle. I’m not judging, but as an actor I can say that a phone and car are the two things you need to thrive in our smaller regional market.
Opportunity knocks again – As a talent when you get a call from a company that based on your previous work wants to hire you again – slam dunk? Not quite – instead of an easy transaction of business someone suggests a string of silly actions – not anything a production in pre-production can or will handle. It also speaks poorly of this persons maturity, character and true dedication to do what you need to do until your craft is accepted.
THE GOOD
This casting string really created a well needed lightness to the pre-production talks. CDI is ran primarily by actor/producers and individually we’ve all had and some continue to have the struggles that come with acting. To see three actors shoot themselves in the foot was offset by the enthusiasm of the one who got to call BINGO!
Be prepared actors. (Take 2) Be prepared actors. Not just in your craft but in your professionalism. Not fixing that car because it is a pain in the butt. Not getting a job with flexibility of schedule. Don’t help yourself fail in an industry that is already difficult. By taking care of your business you can be ready for when opportunity knocks. Organized. Prepared. Ready to succeed.
MORE GOOD:)
We had a key position whereas because of a change in our shoot locations we had to make a change. One person visiting Michigan on another endeavor got a call and within two hours was onboard. They started the next day. Opportunity knocked and it will likely result in another hiring in the spring.
I’ve seen people I’ve hired before return with new battle hardness that made me smile. I saw the few situations we had handled with calm professionalism. Now some may have experienced their first feature run and decide short format is more their pace. Feature shooting is harder, longer and requires a different mental and physical endurance. With our larger budgets we often had additional on location pre production and additional shoot weeks. So to all my crew that traveled with us – I’m tipping my hat. To the ones there all the way through – be proud that is a true benchmark.
One additional planned day of battle footage and a few powerful moments with our films lead Shane Hagedorn. It was a really cool experience to see Shane ride this story out. He made it his and brought such a cool edge to the role. Our Lisa Smith who plays opposite him was such a find. Many of the actresses had a great take on the lead role. This actresses brought it out in Shane, it showed. The children, the outlaws, townsfolk, circus folks all cast with care and it shows.
My humblest respect to my fellow producing team – 1st AD Nate Robertson who TCB (Takes care of Business) on set and the staff who handles everything behind the scenes from accounting to PR and everything in between, we are ONE TRIBE. Jesse squared (Jesse Low & Jesse “Smooth” Aragon) what an honor to story tell with you both again.
Jesse squared (Jesse Low & Jesse “Smooth” Aragon)
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“Wild Faith” coming 2017
I had a chance to see the first rough trailer for “Chasing the Star” and it exceeded my expectations greatly. I think because we’re dealing with a topic that people have such a limited insight to – how do we present that? And I think it was done in a beautiful fashion. Music is complete and dialog clean up is underway with sound design. VFX work is also underway. Bret Miller and CDI have a great follow-up with part 2 of THE QUEST TRILOGY.
Which brings me to part 3 – This week I will be starting to put the business together on “The Christ Slayer” to shoot in the spring. More intense talks on this film in the coming weeks.
“40 Nights” is flowing in the positive direction and this week we’ll be discussing marketing efforts with Lightworx about “40 Nights” and the trilogy moving forward.
I’m going to go finish unpacking my vehicle that was packed up “Beverly Hillbilly’s” style – just needed a rocking chair on top:) Have a great fall morning and keep moving forward. Dare to dream. Create don’t hate.
DJ
Mentors, Marketing and Making Ready
Our day of intense heat gave way to the nice cool day we now enjoy. I will get to talking more on biz here soon but I thought I would get some of the other random thoughts out of my head. I also want to Welcome new readers from Poland and Brazil. I love all the international friends that follow the blog. It is a small world after all:)
On set of the thriller “Bestseller”
To me, the imagination is the great first teacher of the acting craft. Many of us were making space ships from couch cushions and pretended to be tracking monsters on our forest walks. All this just carries over naturally. I think we get hindered by sheer magnitude of trying to make it as artists in a world of shells and beads. (Money) After being in an acting class at the Community College years ago I left after about an hour. Much like “drama club” in high school it was not my thing. I was getting together with friends and making short films. I didn’t like the silliness in those classes. I took another stab at an acting class at MSU with a teacher named Joyce Ramsey. You could tell that silliness was NOT what she was about. She was brutally honest and no nonsense. She gave a public shake down of each of us after our day one. Funny, she gave about the same assessment that I’ve been given by at least one movie studio. She said I could play leading man to the featured gas station attendant. But she declared, “you will be a stronger actor when you leave my class.”
I was NOT in the theater program. I was NOT in the cliche of students in the college “drama” circles, but she invested in me. She would catch me if I came out of character. She empowered me with confidence to trust my own choices. I think she really understood how deep my well of imagination ran. I think, I was one of her favorites – at least in that class. She knew movies were my interest not the stage. Even so, she encouraged me to audition for play THE DOLL HOUSE, going up at the college, even if just for the audition challenge. To honor her request, I did and was offered the male lead. With a smile, I turned it down but left with a confidence that I could survive and thrive amongst these stage actors. I’ve thought of her several times over the years with the success I’ve had. She was older when she taught and I was not sure what happened to her. I looked her up a few months ago and became friends on social media. I had intended to reach out and let her know how her words had helped me to climb where I am now. I heard she passed away yesterday at 89 years old. Now she knows all – I hope she has a good rest and I’m sure she helped many like myself. Thank you Joyce.
The strength to look at the harsh trials of our industry and believe I could make it.
FILM BIZ UPDATES
NEW “BESTSELLER”
Many of our films are rolling out this month to various ON DEMAND platforms. Joining “40 Nights” on Google Play is now “BESTSELLER” –
https://play.google.com/store/movies/details/BestSeller?id=L4iC3L2ILbQ
SOUNDTRACK coming soon!
NEW “40 NIGHTS”
“40 Nights” has released on VUDU and AMAZON.
http://www.vudu.com/movies/#!content/769068/40-Nights
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GIY2CBQ/ref=atv_feed_catalog?ie=UTF8&redirect=true
We have more teaser clips rolling out to promote the ON DEMAND roll outs.
“Chasing the Star” the second film in the QUEST TRILOGY following “40 Nights” is in post with editing passing the sixty minute mark. We should have a locked picture at month’s end and move into music and sound design.
We have NEW development talks underway with Shane Hagedorn, Jesse Low and BlackJacket Films over scripts.
Additionally I’ve been having a few talks over script sales. I’ve recently had discussions with a director in Hollywood over acting in a film for a week or two this summer. Additionally the garden is in and the yard is looking very zen. I love all the wildlife. I have a busy week ahead and I feel ready to sail forward. We have another soccer match today and I’m looking forward to that.
I hope you all have a great end to your weekend and a productive week ahead.
DJ
40 Nights Launch, Lightworx Follow-Ups, NEW Projects
Inducted into the Michigan Hall of Fame 2015
This has been just a wonderful week. Busy but seeing things come together and working hard to begin new endeavors. I would have to say that a great part of my week was attending an awards dinner for the Michigan Hall of Fame 2015. My father’s undefeated 1960’s Haslett football team was inducted. He has been there many times in my life at everything from soccer games to our movies. He is the one always beaming with pride at whatever my brother and I might achieve. It was great to be there for him. We were proud of our dad and it is fun to see old warriors all together again. It is also why I can’t stop fighting on the soccer field each Sunday. Use it or lose it. I hope I can keep that motivation burning for all the years ahead. That was an extremely cool event this week.
This week I also had lunch with an old friend and a relatively new friend. They knew each other from law school. It was great to just talk life – past, present and future. I found myself with two unique friends coming from two very different areas of my life. Bottom line – SUSHI ROCKS.
NEW FILM UPDATES
As “ASHES OF EDEN” starts the run down to release in October (13th) this semi-closure has allowed director Shane Hagedorn and I to discuss our future possibilities. We have another sit down coming up here soon but I think we might have some exciting future news.
“BESTSELLER” just finished a week run in Lansing, MI and now we’re working out our additional dates at new locations. Maybe Benton Harbor? Portage? Mt. Pleasant maybe? Muskegon?
I can also tell you we have just about finalized a domestic US/Canada home video deal. This will get BESTSELLER on TV/VOD and such 1st quarter 2016.
“40 NIGHTS” – The big news this week was the drop of the trailer by our distributor Lightworx Entertainment. I’m curious to see how people connect to the story. The film truly is becoming everything I wanted it to be. Jesse Low, our director, did a great job. It was a fun and challenging shoot in real desert conditions. My feet are only now returning back to normal after having sandal marks grilled onto the tops of my feet.
Below is the link for the Official PR Release
http://us7.campaign-archive1.com/?u=3b0f1531c236866151436cff6&id=0c266ca45c&e=018bdb73c4
Today I wanted to let the trailer get out there and do its own thing. So, today I tried to just let it go. I had other non-film things (We are remodeling a bathroom) to attend to. I loved hearing the enthusiasm to the release from my inner circle. I even started getting communications from different people from around the world. When you accept a role like Jesus you expect rocks with the roses. I feel that the experience we shared is honest and the story – powerful. – The mysterious way we are moved to tell certain unique stories. “40 Nights” like all films are a COLLECTIVE effort by many artists. The final product is the result of on-going DEVELOPMENT until it reaches the audiences. I’m very proud of the entire cast and crew.
DEVELOPMENT
That said. We’ve been very busy here at CDI prepping development on two new features. Casting is now active on IMDB Casting. Locations are being scouted. Business is being conducted. The second project CHASING THE STAR is the follow-up biblical story. In our series of three films with Lightworx Entertainment, this next one would be considered a prequel.
Dead Quiet is still brewing out there in post. A DIVISION 19 film is also still doing that post thing. OK. I’m heading up North eh..so I wanted to get this to all of you early. If you like what you’re seeing pass (Blog or film links) pass them along. It’s been nice to hear from all the people thrilled by BESTSELLER and moved by 40 NIGHTS. Have a safe weekend and a productive week.
DJ
Private & Public BESTSELLER Showings & More…
BESTSELLER Premiere info
The heat arrived in Michigan this week and I actually had the first mowing of the yard for the season. Also friend/associate Dean Teaster has been working his chain saw art so I have a nice pair of benches next to the outside fireplace and a tiki totem pole in one of the garden beds. The hops from last year have started growing and this week coming I need to prep the garden to plant. I had many great phone calls this past week including director friends like Larry Simmons (Locked in a Room), Jon Osman (The Terrorist), Shane Hagedorn (Ashes of Eden) to name a few. It’s exciting as everyone is starting to talk new film ventures. Planting seeds of creativity and growing new stories. I had many other business discussions and as many of you know we are in for many exciting updates in the weeks ahead.
Before we get into these exciting updates let’s take a moment to put something out there for thought, discussion, change?
I had an actor friend contact me and he has had some great work moving out into the market. As it is for many – he could still be ready for more and sooner vs later. This passion has to be controlled and not allowed to become desperation. It is sad because agency’s locally are not vetting projects hard enough. These crowd funded dreams are moving people into action well before they are possible. Casting calls, table reads and making people drive, spend gas and take time out of their life only to find they have a crowd fund with $25 bucks in it. That might buy pizza for a small table read. But why do agencies roll with these? To appear busy? To give their talent something to do? If you got a call once a month or every two months but it was real that seems better than a dozen BS auditions for pipe dreams. And I see self-proclaiming official film organizations promoting these social funding efforts. Why? It seems they should be hosting business workshops to educate filmmakers. Not promoting hobby handouts that almost never come to be. I know these are harsh words and only those engaging in this behavior will be angry with me BUT others of you know it to be true. I can scroll right past or unfollow something (true) but the content brands your organization. Your agency. I see people using a cause to try to get money from social funding but still no business accountability. You want to help? Do the work. Start a non-profit. So I had no answers for this friend – just “it is what it is…” I would have them contact your agent with a script and offer when fully funded. Stay home and eat pizza.
Onto business…
TODAY is a special invite showing for a few dozen people associated with the film BESTSELLER. The film is DONE:) That almost sounds odd to say. The project had a lot of issues prior to CDI getting involved but now that seems to melt away as the project is ready to show the public in two weeks (May 23rd). These two showings are being done in Christopher Knight aka Jonathan Rand’s home town and at a beautiful historic theater. We will be announcing some other play dates on the 23rd but also DVD’s will be for sale from Misery Bay starting on the 23rd of May. I’m happy that this film got the professional finish it deserved. We have long-term plans with Misery Bay and that is built on solid business. That is something I talk about here often. When good business is done it creates job opportunity for a lot of people. When bad business is done – just the opposite. Poison too many wells and you cannot support an industry. I will say it again here – We make errors in our business BUT we are sincerely trying 110% to do things the right way. And I see others that don’t even make the attempt – hard work will win the day over and over again. That is TRUTH. So a great heartfelt thank you to all the hard-working cast and crew of BESTSELLER. It is time to share your artistry with the world.
THE TERRORIST is a NYC based thriller that I co-starred in and helped produce. I got to watch the final film this week and it was great. It also has had quite the journey and is now ready to be seen by audiences worldwide. We are starting to show distributors who have been waiting – this month.
I actually have to turn quite a bit of attention back over to distributors – I’ve been focused on BESTSELLER in these final weeks. I also got a some feedback from a TV licensor and it looks like finally next week we will start to close on a few new TV deals.
“40 Nights” is creating lots of buzz. I released the 1st interview for the film here
http://www.examiner.com/article/michigan-s-own-dj-perry-talks-about-biblical-40-nights
the film is in editing and moving right along. I’ve also started releasing some stills as pencil drawings on the “40 Nights” Facebook site. I think it introduces several elements from the movie without giving you the full on epic look…YET:) I’ve also started my research on my next biblical that we have to do for Lightworx Entertainment and so that has been fun. I’ve also been finishing up a couple other scripts and in talks with some production groups on others. By this I mean, they work in association with CDI to produce a script from our vaults that has distribution.
I’m going to cut this short as I have to prepare to go up North today and share BESTSELLER. I just ask that the technology gremlins stay far away:) I’m looking forward to seeing some old friends and enjoying the show as an audience member. I hope to see some of you on the 23rd for the first public showing!
Have a great weekend and Happy Mother’s Day! (On Sunday)
DJ
My 2014 Year in Recap
Ah, the hot sips of Hazelnut coffee greets my morning once again. Old Saint Nick must know my love of the smooth java as I got several bags of the fine stimulating stuff. Insulated jeans and cargo pants, a few sweatshirts and such greeted me as this is Michigan. When “out and about” I tend to love my boots but more likely these days you will find me comfortably wearing my slippers about. I got several pair this year. One pair for the house, the office and one to “roll in” when I don’t feel like changing up to take a drive to the studio. I also enjoyed the gift giving and watching others open and enjoy such finds. The food has been wonderful. From ham to lamb, shrimp to scallop potatoes. I stayed away from all sweets but enjoyed more than enough of everything else. Tonight is a yearly outing with some of my oldest friends (Hard to beat 1st grade) with a delicious steak in my future. To note the other 2 best 2014 steaks. A tie between the one from Eric Nelson’s wedding (Lansing Country Club) and Dean Teaster’s wedding! (Dusty’s Cellar) so we will see how the Knight Cap fits in there. I’m usually a venison eater but once in a while that steak is just heavenly.
The BIZ
I’ve done a pretty good job of not engaging in too much business over the last few days. It’s exciting to move into 2015 and like a present you unwrap, see what lies there. I’m exciting for so many new films finishing up – releasing and re-releasing!
New poster work has been underway for “Wicked Spring” and “In the Woods,” with plans to do a new commentary for the latter celebrating 15 years. 2015 will see a book release for “Knight Chills” with a sequel film in development. “Ashes of Eden,” “Donors,” “The Terrorist,” “Division 19,” “Dead Quiet,” and “Bestseller” will all roll out in 2015. The new Sci Fi/Western “Wasteland” will have the 1st part assembled by Spring and will return to shooting the others parts this year.
In the works is a new powerful drama with Anthony Hornus directing. A new biblical-era dramatic feature will be finalizing its business in January and gearing up for a spring shoot. Development is underway with a new film collaboration with Shane Hagedorn. (Exciting) My management is working on several options for studio/network projects. My writing projects are building with two screenplays underway now. One optioned script may move into production this winter still and I’ve been asked to consider another Work-For-Hire writing just days ago. BUSY but fun work:)
In recap, I can see the forthcoming year will be filled with great storytelling adventure. I wonder what words I’ll be typing here a year from now? Perhaps thinking back on the releases of these forthcoming films in 2015 and hinting at what projects will be on deck for 2016. I will enjoy a few more days of family and friends – organizing and preparing myself for the busy year ahead. I already have meetings and such lining up which is all good. That is progress in motion and moving ahead in creation. So enjoy these few days of continued holiday before once again rolling up the sleeves and attacking the work ahead.
Happy Holidays and wishing you all a great start to your new year!
DJ
Talking Development and Looking Forward to 2015
A week ago I was waking up early in Kalamazoo to return from our 15th anniversary showing and deal announcement on IN THE WOODS. I have a few more public events coming up soon. I do plan to attend the showing of STANDING POST that was done by one of my long time collaborators and features three actors I respect. I’m also happy that the crowd surrounding the East Lansing Film Festival will get a chance to see ASHES OF EDEN and also get some exciting news for the film. I am happy that this inspirational film will reach even more people. LOCKED IN A ROOM thrilled some folks in Canton last week and I got some great communications from fans watching stuff on VOD. On TV as I type is the making of John Carpenters HALLOWEEN. 21 days and 325,000 with Donald’s pay being 25k. I’m enjoying seeing how much fun those actors had making that little film that would be a king classic in the genre. It was also slammed hard when it first came out. John said much of it was from other artsy filmmakers unhappy they could not get the exposure and release they felt they deserved. 
This past week had some of my people working hard to get things in order on BESTSELLER. We are planning time for the director and DP to come in and share ideas. I think we are growing close to a finished film on THE TERRORIST. We only have a few left in the pipeline. Which brings us to DEVELOPMENT.
I’ve got WASTELAND ahead of me this December and we launched the Facebook site where we will be featuring updates in cast, artwork and props. I’ve had some great meetings with a few people over the last couple weeks as CDI looks to increase the army. I look for smart, positive people with passion and willing to work hard. I’ve built everything in this industry I have brick by brick with few if any handouts. I found other like-minded people and together we faced battles – won some, lost some and moved forward.
As our sales team has been licensing films in the library we have been looking at franchising a few of the films. It is no secret that Lynn Drzick is interested in doing another IN THE WOODS. If the right script is agreed upon it may happen. Also VP of CDI, director Jeff Kennedy and I have had talks over KNIGHT CHILLS and we do have a rough idea of a follow-up. I may be paid to write a script that I’ve had in my head for many years for an associate this November. Discussions on several scripts that already have distributor interest and in some cases guarantees continues.
On some of these smaller scope projects I’m looking at upcoming filmmakers who have yet to reach an international level. I’m looking at people who don’t want to do this as a hobby but as a career path. Many of these people have personal ideas/scripts that can be enjoyable for a small pocket of fans but often does not lead to bigger things. While some are content with making films for fun many in the cast or crew have greater aspirations.
It’s a stairs step process to get to these levels of film success. By success I mean having a title that has sold tens of thousands plus units or is in rotation on TV networks or available in different countries. Once you start to take steps if others around you aren’t willing to do the same you sometimes have to distance yourself creatively for a while. Maybe just until they evolve to that next level. If you’ve done a string of quality projects and have started to frame yourself as a professional you cannot slip back. By you saying NO, you may be one of many that helps them evolve. This is hard when you know the people but if they are doing it for fun and you are building a career – conflict of interest. I’ve explained to a few friends in the field (not truly in the BIZ) I cannot just come play for fun. I spend that time on paid projects or developing paid projects. When you win as a producer you win for many artists. When a film breaks out into the international market the resume of all those artists increases. I don’t always feel that some artists, usually the young, fully appreciates this fact. The wages may be modest, the hours long but to have a credit on a film that really gets into the marketplace is so valuable. So take pride in your work and be happy that you are working on something that will help you. If you start out in our field just for the money you’re in the wrong field. There is good money to be made but it comes in time through hard, collaborative work.
For the last few years I’ve been gone on set shooting during October so this has been wonderful to be home. Like I said earlier, I would rather spend time developing and finishing projects of quality versus just doing to do projects that are just fun. I do things for fun (Reading, soccer, archery, guitar, brewing) and I often find filmmaking fun BUT since I am accountable and use investment versus donations – I take my work very serious. I’ve been in development talks with Shane Hagedorn (ASHES OF EDEN) and we plan to do a 2015 film. Add in the handful of other projects developing and the new year could be filled with exciting projects. I look forward to incorporating some new people into the tribe. I look forward to working with my tried and true. I look forward to sharing our stories with fans around the world. Right now, I’m looking forward to some more coffee, some breakfast and MSU putting a whoop on U of M.
Have a great weekend and be good to one another.
DJ
Filmmaker Advice and Announcements
I’m sipping some strong coffee due to a slight malfunction in the back up coffee maker. It goes perfect with Fall which has arrived here in Michigan. The chilly air and leaves that are slowly starting to change signal this new push towards the harvest. I’ve had a few great sit down meetings this week with associates old and new. I’m a private person who really likes to focus on goals and stay far away from the drama or distractions. To isolate these elements from your life circle allows you to truly add as much creative into your business as possible. I’ve talked about people who tend to use the same variables and are surprised when they get the same results. If you are happy with your direction – great. But if you are not you have to look at your variables and see what is not working. Adjustments in attitude, time management or collaborations can greatly effect the outcome. I’m writing this week within the framework of this – 2 weddings and one funeral for a 18-year-old girl connected to our 4H yearly activity. To see someone who lived fully without any thoughts of a near end and two pair of individuals making a go of it in life can be rewarding. More so when you realize you still are alive and get to meet life’s challenges. It won’t always be so. One day be it tragic or peaceful – your journey here will end. Your children, your art, your words – what will you leave behind? Let’s move to our discussions on film and entertainment…
ASHES OF EDEN – I was proud when I saw the 42 new show dates for our film in Canton and Novi. (See pic for dates) I try not too let pride take hold to often but in this moment, I was. We are not 4 walling or renting the theater – we’re in a partnership much like the major studios. CDI sales team has a new head of theatrical which we will announce. This team will be pushing “Bestseller” and other films from the CDI library out to market. This is a new revenue flow that previously did not exist. A handful of showings were done in days past to avoid the label of DIRECT-TO-VIDEO but it is now a true avenue. Why? The technology and the quality of the product is at a studio level. (Distributor words not mine) Hiring professionals is not enough it’s the focusing of these artists efforts towards telling the best story possible. At the hobby level of filmmaking this is hard because some scenes stay in the film or aren’t cut because someone loved the scene performance, so and so would be mad, the camera shot is great BUT does it serve the story. I’ve seen much growth in this area and I’m humble enough to say I’m always learning both as a creative and as a businessman. You cannot walk around with a full cup or you cannot accept anything new.
I thought I would share some information that was presented recently to a rising filmmaker I sat down with. IF you have some backing and you want to showcase yourself stronger than you have you need good associations. Until you see a department run as it should it is hard to hold yourself to a certain level. We’ve opened ourself at CDI to associations but first it is with whom. Making films is a lengthy process and requires a lot of close collaboration. If your personality runs against this grain of respecting work flow, non-defensive discussions, openness to options – we will pass. I will not argue or deal with big egos. We PR films on a regular schedule but we also don’t attach any entitlement. It is marketing. If you have successfully done certain things you are entitled to an opinion but even that should be done with caution. I see many people not only marketing but believing their own fable. Now I believe that you must have faith in yourself but nothing says confidence like quiet at times. I had someone once ask me after conveying some negative comments about me – if I care? They were surprised that I wasn’t mad but sad for that person. All someone has to do is usually look at the accomplishments of the doer and the complainer and it quickly becomes apparent who is better at using their energy. The sad is for the wasted energy. That circle of negativity can envelop a person or a group. That old “birds of a feather flock together” saying. Seek something better. It doesn’t matter if you are a hobby artist or professional. Who would keep going to a scrapbook club that was plagued by negativity? Play for a team that is chaos and drama? Same in the workplace – people move on from bad work situations or there is a change in leadership. Decide if you want to be a flocking feather or soar with positive doers. Your choice always.
To circle around again to ASHES OF EDEN – we’ve also signed our National deal for home video and digital. We will be announcing more about that in the coming weeks. In the meantime Shane Hagedorn and I have been busy discussing what will be our next collaboration. If you don’t know Shane he is a salt-of-the-earth, hard-working man who I’ve taught and learned from. That is what a positive collaboration is all about. It was also brought up in a recent meeting (Not with Shane) about the divisions existing in Michigan. East-side, West-side blah blah…I say, we are Michigan. I’ve worked in all corners of Michigan with cast and crew from wherever. I’m looking at their art and attitude not their zip code. Lansing doesn’t usually doesn’t get involved in those film turf wars talks. I mean locally aside from CDI only Jeff Burton and maybe our Ahptic friends have worked at that international level. Still it doesn’t matter. It can be done. Our films can compete just like our cars, wines and other MI products. But to do so you have to make product people elsewhere want to see. You have to make it at a quality level that meets quality control. You have to have all legal aspects tied up so you don’t end up with a big home video for family and friends. This is the reality. If you tried to sell and market an unappealing (subjective) car that couldn’t meet safety codes and compliance – who would buy it? You could cobble together some off-road mud buggy for fun or a zippy little go-cart but you can’t expect it to be highlighted in the car industry. Some films are like Go-Carts and their makers think they can enter the Indy 500 and win. This is not a Pixar cartoon with nitro powered snails:) So be realistic. Set realistic goals. Execute with maximum pre-production so you can handle problems you can’t plan for. Don’t cut corners. Don’t allow your ego to trump the story. Keep modifying your process and watch the success start to grow. Good mentors and associations are also key to success – so if professional is your goal – take the realistic steps.
BESTSELLER – We had a great meeting over this thriller with the book creator Chris Wright/Knight aka Jonathan Rand. He is a self-made man like myself enjoys the journey to success. We made some solid decisions on our distribution flow that I’m quite excited about. If you don’t know him your children likely do may from his AMERICAN CHILLER, MICHIGAN CHILL, ADVENTURE CLUB books and much more. This film is now moving into the sound/music stage with Dennis Therrian and we will have a fun go at finishing this thriller. The 1st trailer has created huge buzz for us in the distribution circles thus far and so in 2015 we will see this film presented on the big screen, small screen and everything in-between. Great job Chad Ice on getting that final edit locked up. He had only done shorts when he approached me during our film shoot about the possibility of editing. I do know lots of editors but in this case having someone already invested in the material was a huge bonus. I think he discovered that a feature is very different animal from a short film. I’m proud that we were his first feature film and I think he gained some great experience and insight while we benefitted from his artistic talent. Much more information on this film will be flowing in the coming months.
THE TERRORIST is on a second pass of music and so they are very close. I really enjoyed this NYC based film and can’t wait to have this finished and in the collection. I think many people around the world will benefit from the messages within the story.
We are funding on a few films currently and with pre-set distribution and some great attachments we should be rolling camera again in the near future. If you have your own funding and want to be considered for an association reach out. If you are a new director without money chances are slim to none that we will slide you into a film that is financed on our end to direct. But if you have your $ support and want to create something that will help you move up the professional ladder feel free to reach out. We do say NO more than YES but it’s all case-by-case basis and much of the decision lies in how collaborative the person is. If you’re NOT a budget-minded/producer friendly director you will not work well in our camp. Same for aspiring actors – know your craft and be production friendly. Actors who have had or tried to produce tend to have a much better respect for the company and work flow. When PR was going around on ASHES OF EDEN announcing the new Canton/Novi screenings – one Detroit-based actor responded to one of our staff that he would support the film ONLY if the actors were paid.
NOTE: We’ve paid our actors since our second CDI film in 1999. It wasn’t much back in the day but it was a wage. It is like this actor was policing productions. The truth is we were likely paying our actors when this fellow was still playing a cloud in his middle school play:) But these jaded mentalities wouldn’t exist if not for shady production companies. We’ve all been there but don’t carry that negative with you from project to project or it will paint you in that negative light. To see what happens to “negative nellies” go back up and read the start of the blog. Okay I’ve enjoyed the chat with all of you. G’Day to our Aussie friends who have been tuned in to this blog. I hope you all have a great day and maybe a line or two of this word spewing can help you.
Keep clawing your way to the middle!
DJ
Saturday Summary and September Happenings
Good day to all of you out there. I hope your week was a productive one with some enjoyment along the way. I wanted to take a few moments to blog with all of you out there. I see again we have new international readers. We had a bit more heat this week in Michigan and that slowed the roll on yard work that I’m going to make up today. This week I finally hung a large theater sign in the office that I’ve had for a long time. I can say that my office is really getting there with organization of stuff. It is funny how I can chart my life by what film I was doing at a given time. I did an interview Q&A for the “Dead Quiet” movie that is saying it will show 1st quarter 2015. That is also the national DVD/VOD target for “Ashes of Eden”. I also think that “Bestseller” will be moving into theaters about that same time.
BESTSELLER – I’ve been a tad quiet on this film as it moves down the post line. I had the pleasure of watching the new cut of the film a few times this week to give notes. Most all my notes were on how pleased I was with how the 1st round of suggestions were incorporated. I’m excited because the pick ups and the trims to the film have me very excited. It is a tense and exciting film and Michigan is showcased in such a beautiful way. I can’t wait to see it on the big screen. More PR will be forthcoming as we approach an end-of-the-year premiere. Great job cast and crew!
ASHES OF EDEN will start a theatrical run in the Detroit area (Canton & Novi) in September and I’m excited for people on that side of the state to be able to see this fine film on the big screen. We got a great review from one of the TV networks I’ve dealt with before and so I think we will license there. Also a few foreign territories are moving forward with negotiations. I’ve enjoyed this collaboration and look forward to the next one with Shane Hagedorn.
We also will see other CDI/CDI associated films heading to the big screen and several have new distribution opportunities opening up. We will be meeting this week to discuss more of this and I have some distribution offers to consider. What films would you like to see on the BIG SCREEN? Re-issue of films? Feel free to let me hear your thoughts.
http://www.indieflix.com is the home of the first 3 shows of “Supermodel Showdown, Costa Rican Adventure” and so check it out if you like tropic places, reality TV and/or bikini babes.
A TV pilot I did a few years ago in Canada may become a feature film. It is a comedy and deals with stock car racing and so that could be fun.
I’ve been having some great talks with my management about placement in a few larger studio films. I had materials sent yesterday on a film that might be in need of a strong supporting man. I really liked the director and so I gave my interest to go ahead with the send off. I know at least one studio project I’m slated to be in but I have to keep that quiet until they are ready to PR. I’m enjoying finishing up stuff that is on my plate. But I do have one eye on the future. We’ve had some great development talks and I see a few of our films moving ahead.
I want to close this chat early and go do some yard work before it is way too hot. I have observed all this world news with water buckets, racial tensions and pending war with Isis. How do I feel about it all? See we provide escapism from all these highs and lows in life and I know everyone has different views. I like awareness for diseases but also know how desperate others in the world are for water and to just see waste everywhere… Racial tensions/police tensions – time will tell the story. Isis – challenging the USA is well…not real smart. A common enemy is what often unites Americans and when that focus gets redirected…
So I’m going to return to some yard work. I plan on grilling and chilling a bit. A soccer match tomorrow and time with my brother and friends. I hope you all have a good week. I’m sorry to a friend or two who hit me up with indiegogo/kickstarter stuff – I don’t believe in that funding for profit earning films. For a non-profit or fan film – perhaps an exception. I just see more asking, asking, asking for unreasonable amounts/budgets that don’t/won’t usually get funded. I give to charity where I see fit and no challenge is going to change that. And I don’t play any online games. So if you have recently requested any of these things I politely decline.
And with that I bid you all a good day!
DJ
DJ Perry's Official Blog 'Clawing My Way to the Middle' 