CDI Film Updates- Lessons of Staying in the ‘Right’
Spring is officially upon us and today our clocks ‘Sprung’ ahead! The rain has taken the snow and the ground has drunk up the water. Small buds and bits of green can be found here and there. I want to do some trimming before growth goes full onward. I am enjoying the last of the wood stove fires as soon the temps will tip in the other direction. The added light has the chickens kicking out the eggs. I’ve started the property clean up from the harsh winter. I’m making my list of TO DO’s for the property and I think this coming week I am going to start a batch of Frankenberry wine. That is wine that is made from all the berries around the property with a little rhubarb thrown into it.
I’m about past tax season work with the films. I still have to organize for payment. We’ve worked to streamline some of the process which will help with check writing to investors and end of year tax work. Again I thank the CDI support staff from Dean Teaster, John Mashni and Gary Davison and his team. Filmmaking is a business and it takes a lot more than just what happens on set.
OTHER FILM UPDATES:
- The big news being ran through the PR machine is the nomination of Wild Faith Christmas for several awards topped with BEST PICTURE with the IFCC. One of the largest fests that recognizes family and inspirational films. I’m actually going to join Shane Hagedorn at a hit and run visit to Florida for the awards show. We want to try and have a few conversations about the funding of the TV series and/or a 3rd feature film.
- The Red Letter Awards which is a fast growing event that recognizes positive and inspirational art gave us advanced notice that WILD FAITH CHRISTMAS was up for Best Picture. I think we last won that with SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA. The individual nominations will be forthcoming and that show is outside of Nashville.
- WILD FAITH CHRISTMAS is still up for recognition at several other festivals but will also be going into theaters again end of Summer/Fall before the home video release. I think we almost have everything submitted to TEG and this coming week I will start on the delivery items for RCMD. What is that you ask?
- ROM COMS MUST DIE! If you are fans of films that make fun of things such as Spinal Tap, Best in Show, A Mighty Wind or Waiting For Guffman you might really love this film. The theatrical poster is now complete and we are trying to set up the premiere. After we are planning a series of theatrical events. It will release to streaming and DVD before Halloween Q3. This is comedy/horror and will really hit a note if you work in or follow the actual film industry. You can pop over to the IMDB page and see the poster, watch the trailer or the making of.
- Speaking of Making of – I’m trying to catch up IMDB on the making of’s. These are interesting for the public but also a major joy for cast and crew to look back upon. The journey is a beautiful one. We are also doing this on the literary front with CDI’s collaboration with Katharsys Publishing. We are almost ready to re-release rhe Ghost Town book back to Amazon. We have a Making of Knight Chills with the director’s script and notes. We already have a few of these products out there but we’ll be putting many more out to market. Shane Hagedorn and I have been assembling everything for a beautiful book on THE QUEST TRILOGY. It will have great reflective stories from all the directors and more. If you have not watched FORTY NIGHTS, CHASING THE STAR and THE CHRIST SLAYER in that order you should. It will prepare you for AI Jesus coming to theaters and home video this year.
- I’ll give you the drop here early but we are soon to announce a CDI collaboration with Lynn Drzick to do a slate of genre films. One a detective slasher, a SciFi piece and a sequel to IN THE WOODS. I plan to get that PR around but development work is underway for the first film.
- AI JESUS: The Secret of the Kingdom Chip is in audio post and the first pass is done on dialog and sound design. We’ll review that soon before the musical score begins. We’ll also start the end credit creation. The front credits need a touch adjusting as we have a few new credits to add. I’m down to the last two marketing units on this film and I think we’ll wrap that up soon. The theatrical release will be Summer followed by the Q4 home video release. This film is very deep but also dressed in humor. The topic of AI is everywhere and this film looks at all angles of this emerging technology. You can watch the trailer online and we will soon have a BTS and final theatrical poster soon!
DEVELOPMENT – The Katharsys/CDI slate in development was mentioned above but that is only the tip of the spear. This coming week will be very telling on two different films where funding is concerned. I did a magazine interview this past week and I was asked the hardest part of making movies. That is easily the funding. I also mentioned the WILD FAITH franchise developing the TV series and a 3rd stand alone film should the series budget be too heavy to lift currently. I’ve noted before a few scripts that I’m working on in-between paid writing. One of them is MBF2. I’m not in a hurry to film this but I’ve had the story in my head for several years and wanted to get it out in script form. If you have not seen MAN’S BEST FRIEND it might be a good watch. I’ve got partial scripts for LOST HEART 2 and WILD FAITH 3. I love to write but funding as we stated is the hard part. The feature film version of SMOKE & MIRRORS could jump in the development line pending what happens this month on other film funding fronts.
WRAP UP: People who know me know that I like to build modest expectations and if we far exceed that projection – great! I don’t oversell or hype with unrealistic goals. To get BIG rewards you often have to RISK big. In the indie film circles one big risk fail can hinder you for years. It is why I’ve always chosen the slow and steady. I hear all the horror stories of promises made and promises broken. Deals without paperwork and people left out to dry. If it sounds too good to be true it usually is. People seeking short cuts and unearned glory usually drive these tragic situations. A face of success can be put upon it all until the bridges start burning. At that point, these filmmakers usually move away and disappear looking to use another market’s gullible. I urge you if you really love this industry don’t play the short game. Play the long game and build your experience to delivery creatively more than was expected. Keep your business tight and be known for your follow through. Unsolicited I had two different individuals speak into the shortcomings of an individual and group. It saddens me because you try to set good examples and give good advice to people but it doesn’t always stick. I think some people are just users and others use their own experience to try and develop people and give opportunities. I always want to stay on the latter side of being a giver vs just taker even if it makes me a fool in some eyes, it’s how I like to live.
If you’ve gathered your wealth by back stabbing and stepping on people it doesn’t make you great. It makes you sad and often lonely once you’ve burned all your bridges. My mind just jumped back to an individual like this who once he had burned all his relationships he killed himself. A loss that did not have to happen. There are filmmakers I know that I don’t agree with and most of them know it because we’ve said our peace. And that said, I know they work hard just a much different process and philosophy from mine. And I know toxic ‘users’ that I will not deal with and will give my truth if asked. But I don’t go out of my way to say anything because after all these years I know that these people burn themselves out. Now many do damage the industry as a whole because a ruined location. An investor burnt by a project never finished will not likely invest again. I’m proud to have investors that have been with us on many films and that should speak for itself. There is more than enough resources for many artists to prosper and I just ask that you all respect your business. People find out eventually that differences exist between production companies and how they run their business. I’m not perfect but I challenge anyone to say I don’t give my best efforts. I’ve dedicated my life to the arts and much to the medium of filmmaking. I deeply appreciate everyone in and associated with the tribe CDI. Slow your roll and do good business and good art.
I’m going to call it. I dislike lecturing but I dislike hearing about bad business even more. Especially if it is people I care about. Note I did not use past tense. I can still care about people even if we don’t have current business between us. But when the business dries up often the friendship goes with it. Maybe it is shame for actions they took. Maybe it is the fact that got everything they are going to get from me. I don’t know the truth of what lies in people’s heart. But I do know I have a wonderful tribe of people that want to do things right. If slower is right. If good communication is right. If good business is right. I can say that the extra effort to stay in the right is well worth it. Have a great week ahead.
Coffee Cheers! DJ
Laughter, Love & Gratitude- Looking Ahead at CDI
Good morning to you all! I woke up to a slightly frosty morning with a beautiful sunrise breaking the freeze. I got the coffee started and took care of the dogs and let the chickens out. I was tired at week’s end from film business and wood chopping. I want to thank you all for joining me including my Chinese followers showing up in force. From the Chinese philosophers to the martial arts and tea, I’m one who enjoys that culture. Below is a great interview I did for The Intense Life with friend John Mashni. Click below to watch.
https://www.facebook.com/share/1E5C2QCp4Y/?mibextid=wwXIfr
I want to thank Das for the fine message on Forty Nights and hope he enjoys part 2 Chasing the Star and part 3 The Christ Slayer. I think all fans of the CDI tribe should take a watch. Tis the season and these films are very unique in their perspective.
I’ve been promoting Harsens Island Revenge now streaming. Don Most did a Q&A in CO at a screening last week. I’m getting hammered by people wanting to see Wild Faith Christmas, especially in our home town of Lansing. The film will start announcing more dates as our rep locks them. I was out to the Pines studio overseeing the work on Rom Coms Must Die. It is coming along great and I hope to have a finished film by year’s end.
The Secret of the Kingdom Chip is going to be announcing the full title this week. AI Jesus: The Secret of the Kingdom Chip is the full title and the film is close to a locked picture. It will go into music and sound behind Rom Coms Must Die. The AI Jesus film had more backers come onboard and we will assign the last few units of investment for marketing in the coming weeks. The movie is very funny with powerful heartfelt moments. We have a teaser trailer in works that maybe we’ll release around Christmas. But getting the film picture locked is our priority.
Development- I want to get the final biz on The Kingdom Chip completed but we have several projects in process for a possible 2026 shoot. One meeting went great and if funded by end of Jan 2026 it will shoot that Summer. Another Iowa film follow up to our Silent Night in Algona, a great holiday watch streaming now, is making steady progress. It is the Spirit Lake Massacre, the state’s story of the last conflict with the Lakota. Our proposal was given to the governor and several officials. We will see said the wise man. Another project has some funding but the script needs work. It is a hard conversation sometimes over creative endeavors but direct can be the best way. The issue also lies in the momentum we have with Wild Faith. The launch of the tv series would be ideal but a third film is also possible.
I’ve had a half dozen script writing projects in negotiations but none have finalized. On the acting front I’ve separated from Treasure Coast Agency. They are reducing their roster with casting costs rising. I’ve always done my best castings direct. Being a producer who hires directors, I network better in the above the line realm. My reels need updating but I’m busy working so I spend more energy on projects vs casting materials. But I will get some updated reels from these recent films. I might look into a literary agent to sell a few scripts I don’t plan to produce.
In wrapping up my talks here I wanted to mention that with the gains comes loss. Recently a few wonderful people have passed away. That is always a wake up call to enjoy each day. Also take care of yourselves by laughing, loving and letting things roll off versus getting overly stressed. I hold people accountable but I also understand when I see folks struggling or failing that is just where they are. We’ve all been there. I’m loving the occasional Christmas shop between tasks and I’m looking forward to a few festive gatherings. Try to give people grace at this time of year where hardships can be worse. I’m enjoying the end of year wrap up and I’m preparing for another good year. We will see more films release and more get filmed. We have seen the tribe growing in size and strength as more artists bring their projects to CDI. 2026 will be 30 years for our company developing and creating meaningful content. Until next week I hope you have a productive week. For those who participate in Thanksgiving, use the time to reflect with gratitude on your life and all the blessings. Be good to one another and coffee cheers! DJ
Every Task is a Test!
Good morning all my artistic minded friends. I’m sipping the hazelnut coffee and sitting down to review the week and to look ahead. It is June 1st the first day of my birthday month. I sometimes get a little edgy during my birthday month wanting to get things done. Now I’m looking at not our 1st film of the year but film 2 and 3. And as for releasing we are releasing film 1 of 3. Lotta that number 3 floating about. We have had two soccer matches where we lost 3-2. But I have to say my recovery during week 2 here has been much better. My body has that good sore that those in sports know very well. I’m happy with my play and endurance and last Thursday I was pushed to my limit and it felt great. Sadly, one of my dear friends broke a bone in his leg and will have some recovery time. It might be a season ending injury when you count rehabilitation into the equation. I’m wishing him a speedy recovery. Others on both teams made minor injures including one guy on the opposing team took a friendly fire shot to the head. He was dazed hard and it just goes to show soccer is truly a full body battle. We don’t have people taking dives and magic mists and water bottles like on the pro stage. These are aged warriors battling it out. I love being back at it.
This last week was horrible for communication. I’m trying to excuse some of it with everyone coming off the holiday. But that is hard to do when we have individuals who are solid, regular communication. We are in an age where you can whip off an update via text or even hands free with voice command. If you have a deadline and you are going to miss it you better follow up with an explanation. Every task is a test. You might be handling a small but important part of the greater task. But you are being evaluated to see if you are ready for more. The goal for an individual is to become known as reliable, dependable and someone who always gives a best effort. These are the things that lead to major roles on feature films. These hints work for both sides of the camera. I have one individual I’ve been trying to communicate with on some business but I also had something greater in the back of my mind. But bad communication takes them off that casting or crewing list. Communication amazingly seems more regular when you are offering something versus asking. I worked some hard to build my career with professional, prompt communication. I just can’t wrap my head around it all. I know the opportunities a person had within their grasp but they lost those opportunities by painting themselves unreliable.
But in the spirit of competition everyone trying to get ahead counts on people self destructing themselves. I’m thanked often by executives at our accounting firm, distributors, etc…for my prompt response. So when people wonder why do I get opportunities that others don’t I have things like those examples to point to as an example of why. I work with a handful of the younger generation trying to teach what has worked for me. You won’t find anyone with their nose buried in a cell phone at one of our meetings. That amazing tool is a pacifier for many people. You add up your hours wasted and compare that to presentations, pitches, scripts and more that I fill that time with. Now again I’m not saying this to hold myself higher but I am suggesting to others a better use of time and communication. But again when others don’t display the same level of professionalism that is why they aren’t entrusted with capital. Ultimately that works out in our favor but I still work hard to try and streamline our work flows and communication is that key.
Let’s move into some discussion on our CDI films.
Harsens Island Revenge (HIR) is in somewhat of a holding pattern with several of the chain theaters. We are waiting for the summer glut of films to lighten so we can get some dates. We were tentatively given last Friday as a release date for HIR at Emagine in Detroit. But in the lead up the communication to solidify the run dates when quiet. So we’re looking at more mom and pop theaters while waiting on the chains. We also might open up a couple opportunities for dinner shows at a pair of event halls wanting the film. We are also doing the marketing prep for home video (DVD and streaming) that launches in October. In the meantime we hear you and want you to be able to see the film on the big screen. CDI and our theatrical partners at Dreamscape Prods are working hard to lock in those showings.
This past week Melissa Anschutz was nominated for ‘Best Supporting Actress’ joining noms for Best Actor (David Reardon), Best Director (Carl Weyant), Best Screenplay (DJ Perry) and Best Film! More to come who knows we might receive a few more. We are grateful for the recognition.
Post Production:
Wild Faith Christmas music, VFX and color corrections are underway. This is another very exciting film that continues where Wild Faith left off. I might look at a producers rep to work with CDI on the TV series set up. We’ll be preparing this film to hit theaters in November.
Rom Coms Must Die is locking up color correction and the VFX list is being prepped. Sound design is underway and the last step will be moving this over to Dennis Therrian for the score and final mix. I was promised a look at version 2 of the trailer this weekend so we’ll see if that lands today.
Development:
The next film up looking to film this Summer is THE SECRET OF THE KINGDOM CHIP. This will be the second CDI collaboration with McGraw Multimedia. The Director of Photography will again be John McGraw. We are just starting to look at key cast and director. Also we are rounding out the funding with half of the funds committed. I’ve had a few conversations and will be putting some materials together to present this coming week. The second project being looked at for Fall/Winter is looking like- (one announcement at a time:)
Writing:
I was pleased with my Harsens Island Revenge script nomination. I’ve had many and won several over the years. I do love that this part of my skillset has been so active the last decade and a half. Script-wise I am working on a few projects but one treatment/script that I’ve been working on is a sequel to a CDI favorite. I have a great story in place and I just need to work it all into script format. If you are looking for that original script or book adaptation feel free to reach out.
Misc:
- I had some great conversations this week catching up with some filmmaking amigos like Terry Jernigan and Taymour Ghazi just to name a few. I love catching up with their newest projects and talking about possibly collaborations.
- Great meeting with ‘Tiger’ this week (John Mashni) about the evolution of CDI work flow.
- Set several meetings this week to advance certain projects on several fronts.
- Setting a few PR podcasts and such which will be fun.
- I need to work with Dean Teaster and get our next literary project (Ghost Town book reissue) out to market.
- We are starting to prepare the dispersement/returns for investors on the various CDI films.
- I have to check and see when the release on the music video “Blizzard’ by Shallow Rising is due to drop.
WRAP UP: I’ve been processing wood for next winter. I’ve constructed a new wood rack and I’m slowly dismantling the old wood shed. Much like the turning of seasons you have to always be prepping for the seasons ahead. I’ve been loving working outside whereas my work breaks are business calls. The office and surrounding area are my good zen. In those quiet times with the birds and squirrels I’m able to see where I need to put my next efforts.
We ended up getting the sealant/stain for the new deck and soon that task will be up. You always have the small fix-its to do. So I’m going to wrap things up here. I want to try and get some of those fixes done. I also have a few catch up biz calls I want to make. So I’m going to thank you all for stopping through here and having a coffee, tea…whatever and share a read. I hope you have a great week ahead. Welcome to June! May it be productive for us all.
DJ
‘Wild Faith Christmas’ and ‘Harsens Island Revenge’ Updates plus RIP to a Dear Friend of Tribe CDI
Hazelnut coffee cheers on a cool Michigan morning. I want to thank all the readers last week from 13 different countries. I want to note that the coffee is coming from a new NINJA coffee maker. I’m still trying to learn all the functions but it makes a good pot of coffee for sure. Our old one was getting glitchy stopping and starting while brewing. I have had a full week of updates some exciting and some sad, as that is how life is. Let’s start with some happy life updates. I preach to all my young “knights” (artists) around the table of the fort to mind their dental. I’m very persistent on staying on all that with brushing, flossing, sonic, water pic and rinses. I eat a very low sugar diet and even my vices save the occasional glass of wine or beer has diminished. From soccer no doubt I dealt with a few teeth issues mostly cracks. Not as bad as hockey but soccer can be equally brutal with less pads. I’m not talking about millionaire star players rolling around in agony at the first touch. I’m talking about a league of older gents proving they still have it. Venting their life issues on the field with very intense play and I would have it no other way. Anyways, I had a cracked tooth they could not save because the crack was below the gum line. I had it removed and prepped for an implant/crown next year. Between that and the deep clean I had my teeth are in good shape. But many functions from joints to eyesight can be connected to infection of the teeth. I’m glad to have all that fixed and dealt with. But I do encourage the young artists to keep that a priority so not to have later in life issues.
(Fall friends!)
I’ve been doing a lot of prep on the property by managing the wild growth of plants and trees. I’ve been harvesting the herbs as they get closer to end of the season. We’ve been integrating two new younger chickens into the flock. We are still enjoying daily eggs and that is a wonderful thing. I put in motion the new deck improvements which I’m not doing. I have a few larger build projects that I want to do including a front porch, car port and better privacy fencing but everything costs. So projects have to be spread out and prioritized. I’m going to repurpose much of the old porch boards to maybe build a few things around the property. The new deck will be set with grading under panels to waterproof the under space. Next Spring will likely be pavers and such so a nice area can be created down below. But I love the high deck to sit and sip coffee while enjoying the property and the park beyond it. Bouncing between the desk work and the outdoor work makes for a good balance.
(Pepsi keeping the office/fort stocked! Thank you so very much.)
I’ve been hitting a few estate sales and today a flea market gathering props for our next two films. I’ve found some great stuff that will work well in the two films. I seldom find things for myself but often find great presents and gifts for people. The hunt is a lot of fun and the former owners would likely be thrilled their cherished items are being used to be part of a story. I even found a train conductors hat which you can guess what film that might go with. WILD FAITH CHRISTMAS is moving down the tracks to keep with our train analogy. We announced three new actors onto the film all have been party to CDI Tribe storytelling before. Tim Lovelace (Harsens Island Revenge), Randy Spence (Chasing the Star, Best Years Gone & Harsens Island Revenge) and Steven Sutherland (Ashes of Eden) have been announced. Go watch their previous films with CDI and you’ll see what awesome actors they are. With those roles filled that leaves us with only two major castings. Both are children and we’re closing in on those roles. Crew is locked in and now so is the schedule. The official script and breakdowns for departments will be distributed next week. Director Shane Hagedorn had a wonderful scout trip and also got to look at the mine set. I’ll be posting pics soon of another set piece build for the movie. We have several new sponsors coming on board to join Pepsi, Lerma Transportation, Ace Pyro, Reinert Pottery and more. You can see them in a folder on our FB page along with some great pics of cast, sets and promo art. We are full speed ahead- giddy up!
(Now we are getting closer to a locked film!)
Harsens Island Revenge – As of early last week half the film score was completed and mixed in. Director Carl Weyant and composer Dennis Therrian plotted out the second half and that is being worked on. The film has intensity and romance and everything in between. Karl Manke‘s book of the same name is going to be epic on the big screen. I won’t go as far as to draw a direct comparison to Elmore Leonard but he’s on the same path. Unique stories and characters in his books and now films too. I still cherish the hour plus I spent drinking and talking with Elmore Leonard in Hamtramck, MI before realizing who I had been talking with. I got a sneak peek at the theatrical poster our director is working on and I was excited. It should be done next week and our friends at Pepsi plan to print them for the Alpena, MI premiere and the other premiere 2024 showings. I’m in talks to have our new partners at Dreamscape Productions participate in the theatrical roll out which is looking like 1st Q of 2025. For those awaiting home video it will likely be Summer 2025 that it comes out. This is how all the distribution windows work.
The Fall/Spooky season is upon us and that is good for films like BIGFOOT, UFO’S & JESUS aka LOST HEART, WILD FAITH, BEST YEARS GONE, BESTSELLER and several of the CDI associated films. (See CDI’s new Instagram page tribecdi that is slowly listing all the CDI films.) And immediately after starts our holiday window where films like SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA, FORTY NIGHTS, CHASING THE STAR and THE CHRIST SLAYER will be on full push.
I will be meeting with Bart Ketner in the next two months that will be overseeing our CDI EBAY merchandise page. I also love this trend of charity like what we’re doing with the new AN ORDINARY KILLER release (HD DVD coming soon and streaming before Christmas) benefitting Two Average Joes Media and The Red, White and Blue Project non profit. The EBAY page will launch end of November in time to get a few Christmas CDI swag with a % going to aligning charities. I might even get into doing signed scripts, movie props and wardrobe to raise money for various good causes. Curran Jacob’s FOR THE LOVE OF CATCH documentary film is another project where a % of the revenue goes to veteran families and youth wrestling organizations. It is about giving back and creating awareness.
(Greg Mason with Debbie Bennett RIP)
These two attributes were strongly held values with a special member of the CDI Tribe Debbie Bennett. She retired from being a specialist in the medical field helping people so her love of helping is no surprise. We at CDI met her as the kind, smiling and helpful significant other of actor Greg Mason. She had accompanied him to several premieres and after the WILD FAITH premiere she quietly asked if she could get more involved. I wasn’t sure what she was asking but inquired to what she had in mind. She had heard about our next film MBF: MAN’S BEST FRIEND that highlighted the plight of adoption dogs and wounded veterans. We had a few potential investors at the premiere to discuss the future film(s). She asked if she could invest. Now filmmakers know how hard financing can be but quality storytelling does somewhat sell itself. She had been quietly listening to all the other financial investor talks and was more savvy than anyone assumed. Never judge a book but the cover. She was an Executive Producer on MBF and the film LOST HEART after that. She came to set and worked as a driver picking up talent and taking them to the set and back again. LOST HEART dealt with grief and loss but in a very humorous way. She loved being part of a film that helped people (and dogs) she was an animal lover too. WAS- yes I was speaking in past tense. I got word from Greg Mason the other day that Debbie was no longer with us. She had issues with her liver and other complications and was now at peaceful rest. The CDI Tribe sends Greg and her family sincere condolences for the loss of a beauty soul. RIP Debbie but the stories you helped make and bearing your name will continue on.
This week we also added actor, writer, director Anthony (Tony) Hornus’ parents to our FB Collective Development Inc. “In Memory” folder. Most of our parents have played a great part in supporting our dreams as artists. That is not always the case but in Tony’s case it was definitely true. Just like our significant others who hold down the fort when we have to go away and film. Take a few moments to look at and read about many of the CDI artists no longer with us. I know I’ve missed some and sometimes I don’t learn about a passing for a while after. But we do try to add the folks who have traveled with the CDI Tribe along the way. Remember to appreciate the people that are supportive on your journey.
(My Mom and Dad with baby filmmaker DJ Perry)
WRAP UP: I’m going to wrap this up. This week I’ll be double checking our software that we use for accounting. (Thank you Dean and Josh) Also working with John Mashni on a few legal loose ends. I have to get our production check book in order and start putting agreements together for cast and crew. Everyone is doing little character things from looking at hair, wardrobe, props and such. I’m also going to get back to work on the TV series updates. I have 5 more shows to readjust to fit after the second film. I hope you all have a wonderful week getting your TO DO’s done. My alumni school Michigan State University won their second football match. Our Detroit Lions have their first game tonight which I’ll have to copy because I’m having some family and friends over. Again, appreciate the time with family and friends. Don’t be afraid to adventure and try something new. Many that we know are at rest their journey done. While your journey is alive and well, do the work, face the obstacles, trials and tribulations. Dare to do something great! I so appreciate all of you out there who spend your quiet moments with us. I hope I inspire some of you to dream on, as Aerosmith would say. Until next week-
Coffee Cheers!
DJ
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA Teaser Trailer Releases and MUCH more…
I want to welcome our gathering of new readers joining us from around the world. I give you all a big hazelnut coffee cheers. Thank you all for taking the time to join us.
Yesterday was the first absolutely beautiful day in Michigan. With temps reaching almost 80 degrees with flowers blooming, birds building nests and much-needed sunshine warming everything. I spent a good part of the morning with Luna, our new dog, unpacking our patio set. The deck now has the table, umbrella and chairs all set up. It is one of my favorite places to work on scripts and do business. But yesterday it was working in the yard all morning until getting cleaned up for a family bday dinner at a local Italian restaurant. After that it was back to all hang on the patio. Luna has been fascinated? obsessed? with you guessed it, squirrels. Yesterday as we all visited Luna decided to use a broken tree to try and escape the fenced in yard. She struggled with all her might and got her heavy load over the fence. She was quickly re-captured but I had to bust out the sledge hammer, axe and chainsaw – ending with securing the area with a higher heavy fence around the tree. She was a tired camper and while she was proud of her climb we hope it was a one time thing. I’m sure it was a first for her.
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA – Let’s get right into the news of the hour. I’ll actually let you read it all right here.
Teaser Trailer PR Link: https://www.prlog.org/12914549-collective-development-inc-gives-audiences-silent-night-in-algona-first-look-teaser-trailer.html
Other Updates-
Even before the PR hits next week I’ll fill you in on a few new updates
- The deal for the BluRay of KNIGHT CHILLS is done. For those not in the knowing, Knight Chills was CDI’s first movie shot on Beta back in the 90’s. It was a huge learning curve and the PG-13 thriller had Dungeons and Dragons like role playing at the heart of the story. Plans are for a streaming release and actively we have a video game in development. I’ve seen some of the test work and it is pretty amazing.
- I mentioned above that I’m excited to be sitting on the patio doing some writing. I’ve signed a deal to write my next adaptation of a book to screenplay and produce the film. Right now I’m ONLY concerned with writing a great script. It will likely film 2023 but pending it could be late 2022. I’m going to hold off on any details until the PR release but it is exciting to have a new writing project.
- FOR THE LOVE OF CATCH documentary is prepping deliverables and we’re still exploring where we want to premiere it. We are also looking at large premiere festivals so we’ll see. We are also discussing the next documentary film in our FOR THE LOVE OF CATCH series!
- In the next month of MAY 31st, we’ll be promoting the release of the CDI associated thriller BESTSELLER, which previously only had a DVD release. Deskpop Entertainment is releasing it worldwide and we are excited to see it launching.
- BEST YEARS GONE will be firing up its marketing campaign in the coming weeks with the film releasing JULY 5th! This film brought lots of laughter in the theatrical play and we’re excited to bring this fun romp to all of you.
- I hope you all had a chance this holiday season to watch THE QUEST TRILOGY, our unique take on these stories have been enjoyed by an ever-growing world audience. I met with Carl Weyant (The Christ Slayer) over a few new projects. We just finished a DEEPFALL music video that CDI produced and that he directed, shot (with Travis Hayward) and edited. Here is the music video link- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xtlc7GQvr70 – Carl and CDI have several projects in development including other music videos. Interested in a music video and have a budget, reach out to me.
- WILD FAITH and MAN’S BEST FRIEND look as though they might be heading to Peacock streaming. We’ve had major efforts underway to turn our highly popular Wild Faith into a TV series. When speaking about on-going stories I’ve had many people ask about the fate of ‘Paul Landings’ from MBF. Currently ‘Paul’ is serving time and will there be a second story, never say never, although there is no active development on that front.
- We’re about to make our push on HOT ROD LOVE, a female empowerment story in the world of drag racing in 1975. We’ve been preparing to approach our backers and sponsors. Prepare to start your engines!
- This past week we’ve been awaiting follow up materials from a few discussions on film collaborations. Many folks talk but don’t follow up properly mainly because they engaged in talks prematurely. But if things are delayed you should reach out to communicate that. One project was pitched and I was suppose to see materials last week, but they did not arrive. It reminds me of past film mixers of having your time dominated by someone who talks a good game but next presents any follow up materials. So they wasted my time talking about something not ready to roll. Casual conversation is fine but I’ve had an hour plus wasted in the past. So don’t go into things prematurely or unprepared.
- I do believe this coming week we’ll know the outcome of the BareBones International Film and Music Festival results. BEST YEARS GONE is up for ‘Best Comedy’ and there might be an opportunity for folks to watch a one time virtual showing. I will have to explore that more with our director Shane Hagedorn.
I hope you all have a wonderful week ahead. I’m excited to see how folks react to the first peek at SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA. We have another indoor soccer match this week after a close win last week. All of this is in preparation for our outdoor league. I plan to get more trees trimmed and other prep work that will give us a garden zen in a few short months. Cheers to more dreams, endeavors and doings. We had a few great wrap ups this week as we all worked very hard. We make it look easy at CDI but it’s really hard work. It looks easy because we’ve gotten more and more efficient with but it’s still hard work by lots of artists. We ask for people’s best and they give it. Thank you.
Be kind to one another! Coffee Cheers!
DJ
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
Happy Easter 2021
I’m sipping the coffee early and trying to do my blog here before I have to start getting the patio around for our little Easter meal. We are just having the mom’s over but it should be a nice day to enjoy family. Again welcome all the readers from around the world. I think I’ll do a simple TOP 10 list today to make things easier. I know Easter is many things to many people and I think that a person’s journey is their own personal one. It is a time of rebirth, renewal and new beginnings. A chance to awake with the perspective you wish to carry with you day to day. So enjoy a watch on some of the classic Chuck Heston biblical films and maybe sneak in a viewing of ‘The Quest Trilogy’ with your family.
TOP 10 Updates from the past week-
- Our awards season is starting and here is a smattering of the nominations https://www.prlog.org/12864311-hidden-gem-lost-heart-gathers-multiple-nominations.html – congrats to all our nominated folks and our entire creative tribe.
- The new general market campaign for “MBF: Man’s Best Friend” has begun with new artwork and as of this morning on the distributors ENCOURAGE TV the film just broke 1 million views!
- LOST HEART is getting a general market release in the coming months and that film keeps on growing in audience size. Another great family watch!
- Casting on “Silent Night in Algona” continues and this week we plan to announce two more actors from our lead family. We’ll meet ‘Grandpa Joe’ and young ‘Donny Tietz’ this week. Stay tuned in! Thank you for all the great reels and reads.
- Distribution is fully signed on BEST YEARS GONE which has now moved to the new audio studio to start having music and sound design work done by our own Dennis Therrian.
- The BEST YEARS GONE – Battle of the Bands (On the FB page) is getting lots of good submissions – keep them coming all month!
- ‘For the Love of Catch’ documentary is about to film its last segment this month and will start editing. We’ve had some great interviews and this will give a fascinating look at the history of grappling.
- I’ve been having fun doing work on an audio book that I’ll share once it is completed.
- Wild Faith keeps moving ahead in strength and plans for the TV series get stronger as we along.
- I hope each of you makes the time to take a watch on The Quest Trilogy (Forty Nights, Chasing the Star, The Christ Slayer) – enjoy!
In a place and time where so many feel a need to check a box to belong – know you don’t have to check any boxes. It is okay to be unsure, to be a seeker and/or to fail and start again fresh with new experience. Again absolutes often reveal the fool and admitting being a fool can open oneself up to great new perspective and wisdom.
With many things to do on this fine day I will keep this short. In summary, at CDI we have several more projects in development like “Hastings”, post production like “Smoke & Mirrors” and much more. Individually and collectively we’ve faced challenges grown. So enjoy this beautiful day of renewal and plan your adventures ahead. Happy Easter to each and every one of you and have a good week ahead!
DJ
Power of ‘Purpose’ PLUS the TOP TEN CDI Updates
Hazelnut cheers! A beautiful snowy morning here in Michigan. I want to welcome all the new readers from Germany, Sweden, Germany and China. I appreciate you stopping by to take a read and apply what you can – where you can in your own personal journey. I’m not going to spend a lot of time on the unity topic we’ve had for a few weeks. My fireside meditations led me to the analogy of a spending train. We’ve got so much developing here at CDI we’re thundering down the track. The occasional hater throwing rocks out of boredom or a need for attention. If a few people threw rocks at a speeding train what would happen? They would bounce off the steel hull and be gone down the tracks. The train had places to go, people to see and things to do. They would never stop the train to debate or waste time – they would stoke the fire and full speed ahead.
In this time of Covid it’s a great time to stoke the fires of passion within. Build up your reserves of energy and get yourself in your best shape. Do all those things that often get neglected because you have others things to do. How many hours saved by not spending two hours in a car commuting back and forth to work places. More time to read. More time to update. More time to plan. From March 2020 I have been putting this into practice. While I could list so many things missed in 2020 I could also make a list of the things I got done using the extra time. Again as I write on such topics of motivation and such I say again that I am not better than anyone. You have the ability to make changes in your situation and it starts with a thought. Thought powered by the imagination, focused by the will, held strong by faith in yourself and your life purpose.
This week was very productive against a backdrop of ice and snow. Let’s see if we can do a TOP 10 updates from the week. Refill your coffee and let’s take a look.
- Additional “end of year” tax materials supplied for the fun part of filmmaking. We’re streamlining this process all the time to try and better the overall process.
- Our WW2 Christmas drama Silent Night In Algona is now formed as a corporation. We’ll open the account soon and start bringing on the funds. We still have a few units to assign but within 60 days of entering into pre-production. Casting has been full speed ahead with a national casting for our young lead. We’ve also been doing a lot of casting within the tribe of talent we’ve used before. The audition reads have been great to see the words ALIVE! I’m excited that we’ve almost got our lead family cast. We’ll announce that in a few weeks likely dripping them out or in pairs. This project will be a great story of love and unity set in small-town USA in 1944.
- I had a wonderful call from Darby Hinton, an actor best known for playing the young lead on the Daniel Boone TV show but has reoccurred or guest starred on many of the great shows of Hollywood. He was our ‘Gerald’ the shopkeep in WILD FAITH. He was one of the folks I offered a read on season 1 of ‘Hastings‘ the Wild Faith TV series. He called to tell me he wasn’t blowing smoke – he has read and been part of shows with great writing and THIS (tv series) is great writing. He said he reads at night (like myself) and to his wife’s regret he had to keep reading. He asked if I had writers meetings, other writers…to which my response was just me and the voices in my head:) I would ponder and spill notes out onto paper. From those legal pad notes I just dive in and start writing. I’m going to get the 8 shows edited up and ready for outside presentation. If you haven’t seen the pilot feature do yourself a favor. A fun film with a powerful message.
- Best Years Gone – So this week we prepped the new audio studio and I’m beyond thrilled that it is amongst the pines and forested fields that we’ll breath the audio and music into these stories. We will be rolling some new still photos out this week. I just might have a Valentine’s Day gift for our cast, crew and fans and I think we’ll give it to you on Sat. the 13th on the BYG Facebook page. Are you already part of that? If not come on over. We have some exciting things still in store including merchandise that is coming and the BOTB. (Battle of the Bands) I’m working to get that launched. We are also soon to have the next draft of the film edit now that Shane (our director) has given his new round of notes and adjustments. This film is heartfelt and will be funny for sure.
- The CDI website http://www.cdiproductions.com is undergoing updates. First you can now subscribe to the tribe which will become a center of updates. I even thought of my blog existing as a weekly send out. But the film pages are updated. Streaming is now connected to our distributor’s ENCOURAGE TV. Merchandise is slowly coming together with a few new items. This will explode by year’s end. We will also be doing artist spot lights and have some of their work on consignment. If you have any ideas feel free to drop a comment. From those subscribed we might start looking at pre-orders and that could allow some larger piece orders. Lunch box? Bobble heads? Posters?
- LOST HEART & MBF are the most recent releases. Both are growing their audience nicely and I so appreciate all the fan mail from folks. We’re not big festival folk at CDI but like to select a few. In my experience and opinion the festivals best serve if someone from your team can attend. But with everything going virtual you are essentially paying to have them do a free streaming of your work. But new circles of exposure and if people are truly impressed you can have lifelong fans. I’m a person who in the last handful of years I’ve not attended industry mixers and such. But with the absence of even my few – I’m looking forward to talking film and the arts not by phone or zoom. Again get up to speed with the CDI stories with a watch on these two films. Do you have a favorite CDI film? Comment and let me know.
- THE QUEST TRILOGY – The CDI Tribe earned their desert stripes with this trilogy of biblical adventure stories. I’m excited that PUREFLIX (Sony) is going to do a big push as a series to their viewers. Now with ad based Video on demand everyone can take a watch and experience the CDI films. These films have the trademark style and quality that you’ve come to expect from our storytellers at CDI. The bible is full of stories many untouched because of the R or X rated material suggested within. We haven’t tackle those stories but did find “unexplored territory” to address with our speculative storytelling. I think this is more interesting versus retelling the same handful of stories. I do have my next trilogy of stories to tell back in the sands but that is a way down the path.
- This year we will have SMOKE & MIRRORS finishing. This has no deadline so it got moved down the release line. But this decision allowed us to make some more aggressive choices on VFX work. I LOVE this short and I’m excited to see it develop into a full feature. I am retooling the feature based on the short film. Knowing locations really helps in planning the story. David Gries and Melissa Anschutz are MUST SEE in this film. But those that know their work will not be surprised in the least.
- ‘FOR THE LOVE OF CATCH‘ – the CDI associated with Red, White & Blue Project doc will start shooting again this month. I think we’ll have some sort of promo video for this documentary in the coming weeks.
- We also have something special coming from one of our crew/associate producer Nate Robertson. Nate was our foreman on the last film that set sail through the storm of Covid. Nate took a job that already had pressure and had it magnified by Covid procedural pressures. As a show of how our system at CDI is strengthening. The producers create a bubble of harmony for the set to exist within. Inside the set, the flow is controlled by the AD. The flow was there, time was managed and Nate was able to express some of his artistic self via a BTS video of sorts. I know we’re excited to see it. I think we’re just seeing the tip of the iceberg.
If I forgot anything it will have to wait until next chat. I’m going to make some good food and watch the football contest and the commercial creativity. I have a few emails/calls I might make to get a jump on my week. That is another good secret – work with people you truly enjoy. I never roll my eyes or stress over phone calls. They are always good touching of bases between fellow adventurers in life. We discuss our separate ventures, our shared ventures, and those yet to be made. I don’t have a close relationship with everyone as time won’t permit. But those who do know me truly, I think would speak well of my intent. My intent is to see dreamers win. I want you to break poor patterns and do better by yourself. If the artistic path is a true calling that calling grants faith in yourself and a purpose. The latter is priceless and exactly what is missing from many people. People who check many ‘success boxes’ yet still are unhappy. To me it’s like the moment when Obi-Wan puts the helmet on Luke to further test him against the remote droid. Reach out. In those moments of sensory deprivation if the calling is heard – have faith. If you don’t know ‘Star Wars’ you are now assuming I have had a stroke.
If storytelling is a great road winding up a mountain – many people are at various places some higher and some lower. What I’ve always prided myself on is being in good company at wherever place I’m at on the road. Climbing higher only changes the view but it’s still about the laughter and fellowship that accompanies the climb. And when my time comes to leave this world where I’m at is where I’m at. Always a work in progress. So the secret is enjoying the early struggles of beginning filmmakers or the challenges of the mid-road struggles – have friends on the journey of storytelling. Have friends outside the journey of storytelling. Have these things and your journey while unsure at times will not eat at you with stress. Living by ‘Best Efforts’ will allow one to laugh off the failures (with friend), toast the wisdom learned (with friends) and forever be the better person. Getting along with a little help from my friends.
Be good to one another.
DJ
2021 Hiring Advice – Casting Updates, Film Progress – Development
I’ve awaken to the foggy chill rolling over a Michigan morning but have the hazelnut hot coffee to combat the cold. I see that many more circles of people are suffering losses from the Covid. Again the toll that it’s taking on all fronts will cement this year into the minds of many. I hope the that year ahead brings comfort and better fortune to many who suffered. But the losses of family and friends gone will be more apparent. Businesses that collapsed will have to be re-tooled and for many that means starting over. I hope we can get politics to disappear into the rear-view mirror as the energy between parties and people has been downright shameful. But for the many times whereas I turned off any news and turned on music = JOY. I’ve rediscovered or introduced myself to lots of new music. I’ve pulled myself away from the world of digital text/email communication and enjoyed phone calls again. That has effected my personal and professional relationships in a very positive way. I hope that what we all bring forward is a deeper appreciation for one another. Kinder communication is needed and will enhance all endeavors.
One form of communication that has become popular is grandstanding and lobbying. If a person gets an answer they don’t like or that goes against their desired result they are in essence a poor loser. Now I know the example that leaps into many people’s mind. Accepting that our efforts or the acceptance of our ideas has fallen short is hard for many to take. Often these people might seek to vent their issues to others to gain sympathy and in some cases empathy. I use to marvel in Hollywood at the number of artists flocked together in the cheapest drink joint to loudly complain about all the external forces keeping them from their dreams. Seldom did I hear about sub-par materials, motivational issues and the blame always seemed to fall on someone else. To someone not in this ‘trap’ it feels like you’re standing on the banks of a river watching people swirl hapless and pinball down the river. Who walked into the river? Why? Did someone say it was a shortcut? Get out. Dry yourself off. Get your direction straight and set off towards your goals.
I wanted to think of other examples to help folks. I recently read a huge rant from a crew person in our industry. It proclaimed their willingness to work without pay with people or projects they found fun because of friendship. They also ridiculed someone who had offered them a low paying gig. And it was grandstanding at its finest and it worked to grab attention. Did it get the desired result? The friends of this person who had this person often work free were in agreement. But they did not see themselves as part of the problem. The venter also did not see the issue. A person has so many days a year they can earn. Giving up an unhealthy amount of those days can create a financial strain. This frustration stems from giving too much to an unpaid source (friends?) and creates a desperation when bills come. Now said associate(s) come with a paid offer that doesn’t meet the expectations of individual because of their poor time managing. AND so they are basically saying they cannot manage their work to recreational time. And they like to blame others. And they’ll loudly vent their self made frustrations to anyone who will listen. Usually the only ones who will comfort these people are the non-paying friends. And those with resources to pay realize they don’t want to buy that person at any price. They don’t take accountability and they poorly manage their lives – is that what you want to bring onto a project? But people truly think they are doing something positive by claiming justice and righteousness but really they are saying DO NOT HIRE ME. Don’t be one of those people. I’ve seen so many just take themselves out of the game. Maybe that is what they wanted all the time. They believe they need an excuse to bow out making it someone else’s fault. The reasoning is someone gathering funds to pay cast and crew, standing accountable to investors, is gonna evolve and grow faster than a bunch of friends playing. That has always seemed obvious to me but the logic utilized by many people is very strange.
We live in a melting pot of beautiful people in this world. All biologically more or less the same but wrapped with different customs, food, dress, culture, beliefs and music. With most projects or artistic endeavors – the artists involved are from all ends of the spectrum and therefore cannot be rendered into one group. They can be inspired to focus on one story but still all have various backgrounds to be respected. One of the best respectful practices one can give is to listen. Real listening allows real dialog. This becomes healthy communication. In all walks of life and in all endeavors I hope that in 2021 healthy communication becomes a practice. Good storytelling is not condescending, preachy or judgmental and when done proper is one of the most powerful forms of communication. I will continue to practice this form of communication because I believe it most effective and leading by example is best in my opinion. Maybe a year of less talk more action will influence others and the world can shift. Shift to a place of beautifully differences but none-the-less all the same.
Much of this stems from the masses of people wanting 2021 to be very different. Some things are outside your control but are you doing your best with what you can control? I certainly would get an A for effort. Now by the nature of who I am and what I do I’m a self starter. Others are learning this as they are forced to work from home. Work when you decide to work and relax when you decide to relax. Know thyself. Learn to shift gears cleaning. At rest be at rest do not let the mind spin with regret of the past or anxiety of the future – relax. In the present get the recharge and rebalance you need and with a new day adventure forth. You cannot stop age and death but you can control what you do on your journey. Appreciate yourself, others and this life adventure. I try to remain modest in the light of success and view loss and setback as a learning experience. I know of some fighting battles to stay on this journey of life – do not take it lightly. Think through your stresses and remove their hold on you and watch certain binds disappear with a thought. We can imprison or set ourselves free. We have that ability. 2021 set yourself free and be the best you.
OK – enough of the deep ramble… I’ve refilled the coffee cup and the smell of bacon fills the house so let’s get on with this. Onto the movies and other endeavors-
Let’s talk about THE QUEST TRILOGY. The three stories are unique because of the glimpse into how these important and overlooked events in films 1-3 effected or were effected by angels fallen and faithful. Because they are the thread between all three stories and time, space and dimension are powerful aspects of existence slowly being revealed to us, the stories go from PRESENT (Forty Nights) to the PAST (Chasing the Star) and land in the FUTURE (The Christ Slayer). As the new campaign rolls out for the holidays I had to enlighten parties to the fact that the lack on linear was intentional and part of the greater story. So many little nuisances to discover. I had a fan last week talk about with each viewing they discover a new gem. Something they missed prior and so I’m thankful that some are studying the trilogy. If you have not seen these three films please do in the proper order and leave a review for THE QUEST TRILOGY as a whole. I look forward to seeing those reviews so peel the onion and enjoy.
MBF: MAN’S BEST FRIEND
Available on many platforms – on ENCOURAGE TV we’ve topped 700k viewers with millions overall watching. Now you can watch FREE with ads.
WILD FAITH – As this film makes its way around the world it’s always interesting to see how other countries view a story. Humor is different from place to place as is the general acceptance or sex or violence and just “grasping” the story as a whole. It is interesting because the ‘Civil War’ was the American Civil War although several countries were involved. Here is a pretty good review from the UK that I enjoyed.
Also funding and distribution talks on HASTINGS the spin-off TV show is underway. Season one is written and the budgeting and production flow is being examined. The first round of proposed directors are looking at the scripts for assignment. I have several more talks to have but this next endeavor is coming together and what a win it would be for Michigan. I think we’ll be starting a Hastings FB development site. Also I think my clean face is going away as I let Ben Lily slowly start to creep forward.
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA The end of 2021 will include the filming of CDI’s 1st WW2 era film. We are gathering our commits before forming the business entity in early 2021. We have almost all our funders in line. We had additional funders jump on board last week and the final few should be on board by year’s end. In the new year we’ll also be talking with various sponsors to travel with us on the film. Right now we’re looking at German or German-speaking actors as several of the leads are German POW’s. If you fit the bill feel free to reach out with a reel on the http://www.cdiproductions.com website (Subscribe to the Tribe) or right here.
SMOKE & MIRRORS – the final VFX work is underway and we’re taking our time and we’ll hit some festivals and a special showing at the Dodge Turner once this virus passes. The full feature is in development with me revisiting the feature script. This is a great turn of the century based story that will star David Gries from the CDI tribe.
FOR THE LOVE OF CATCH – this project has completed some early filming but is now preparing to go full steam ahead into 2021 with a series of interviews. We will premiere this later in 2021 another great thing to look forward to.
LOST HEART – This film is like a lighthouse casting its positive light out into the darkness giving laughter and hope to many out there. This is a feel good, thought-proving film and audiences are responding in kind. I’ve been just elated by some of the wonderful pieces of fan mail. What makes its even more exciting is when it comes from peers I’ve never met. I had a nice note from an actress who has watched it twice after it was referred to them by a friend who illustrates for the Jim Henson company. I’ve said it before, I think this is the closest to a feel good Spielberg movie that CDI has done. I’ve gotten lots of compliments on the script but I want to say that without the great performances the writing would not be enough. If you are in need of a smile, laugh and uplift please do watch the film. It is available on most platforms!
I might have missed something but I think it’s time I get on with my day. I have a week of investor dispersement ahead and more development work. Plus each day playing elf wrapping up some love presents. I will end with this tidbit from Nathaniel Nose who is editing BEST YEARS GONE. He reached out one day after reviewing all the footage and complimented me and the cast on performances. He was excited to see me doing comedy (Mike Deeney:) and he thought this was the best performance of my career. Okay that is subjective but it still made me feel good. I left it all on the table as Gil Gilles and I’ve brought some wonderful characters to life (Jesus, Ben Lily, Paul Landings, Stan Reed, Buddy Colt, Lynn Kendall…) so I’ll just take it for what it is – it tells me that if you’ve enjoyed my other roles you might enjoy this one. He also gave very high marks to my co-star Erika Hoveland and that is part of the key. Having great artists to co-exist with and create so thank you Erika/Sylvia.
Have a great week. Lead by example. Seek accountability. Control what you can. Be good to others.
DJ
WILD FAITH TV Series Updates, Lost Heart Release Info and More…
Good morning. I’m sipping the hazelnut coffee and enjoying sitting here with Finn and Daphne on this Sunday. I finally have just about everything from the BEST YEARS GONE shoot unpacked. I’m trying to use the older ‘classic mode’ on this WordPress.
The first in the CDI CLASSIC SERIES the Double Feature ‘Heaven’s Neighbors’ starring Aaron Jackson & DJ Perry and ‘Figure in the Forest‘ starring Dean Teaster and MaryJo Cuppone both directed by Jeff Kennedy! A GREAT CHRISTMAS GIFT! Click below to BUY:
as “John Choler” in HEAVEN’S NEIGHBORS
We’ve just went through Thanksgiving which consisted of pie-drop off’s and goodie bags. We had our own little Thanksgiving and will be eating turkey leftovers for quite a while. We’ve also got the tree cut and put up in the house. We will likely do some decorating today. We also started on the outside which we do a little bit of decorating but we don’t go Chevy Chase with them. I’ve used this time to catch up on end-of-the year work.
LOST HEART – This movie is now popping up on DVD and streaming all over the marketplace. The EVENT showings on ENCOURAGE TV did great. We had tens of thousands of views and gained some attention for how we pulled it off in these trying times. We have new stories coming out in FORBES and THE LA TIMES. I will tune you all in to those when they hit. The other National PR on Huckabee and such was fun for our talent. I’m told Mike was a kind and generous man who really enjoyed our film. If you have not seen it yet I urge you to watch it with your family.
TUBI (Free with ads)
AMAZON PRIME
ENCOURAGE TV (Youtube)
Here are a few PR pieces
Watch with your family and leave us your thoughts on http://www.imdb.com (Lost Heart page) and amazon.com
I think the film is a wonder blend of heartfelt and humor with inspiring themes but not being overly heavy handed with the faith aspect.
BEST YEARS GONE – The ‘Gil Gilles’ mustache is gone but we have a hard drive full of scenes for the next CDI feature. We made an announcement last week that Nathaniel Nose has been brought on board as the film’s editor and VFX supervisor. I’m excited to have this film racing towards the finished edit. I had so much fun shooting this movie even with all the safety restrictions. We’re soon to start logo stamping a few stills and get that flowing. We will also be announcing more sponsors including UAS that we will feature this week.
THE QUEST TRILOGY (FORTY NIGHTS, CHASING THE STAR, THE CHRIST SLAYER) – For the holidays a new campaign is underway for our trilogy of films. Make it a family tradition to watch these three epic stories that shed some light into the dark corners. Watch the new promotional trailer and watch all three!
MBF: MAN’S BEST FRIEND
With nearly 700k views on ENCOURAGE TV alone the powerful ballad of Paul Landings is making its way into the marketplace. You can watch it free with ads here –
WILD FAITH is one of those special films that brought forth lovable characters and showed audiences a world that is a throwback. A throwback to a simple time in the late 1800’s. This film has been seen by millions worldwide and the idea that this could becoming a TV series is exciting. If the series is going to move forward we’ll know soon.
The most exciting part of all this development on ‘Hastings‘ is that I’ve finished writing season 1. Eight 44 min shows that once again follow the Murphy family as they continue life after the events of WILD FAITH. I’m so happy because all the captured magic of the film is there. The characters were established and so it was a joy to write them. Also because of breakdowns that need to happen and the fact that if I wrote the first season it would lay a nice foundation. Who knows? I might take a backseat to other writers in our circle for a second season but to have a chance of cameras rolling by March we needed “blueprints” which equals scripts. I’ve enjoyed the day of feeling accomplished and I’m ready to start allowing our CDI development team to look at the shows. My thought was do I put them all out there at once or one at a time? The goal would be to have the first season DONE by November for a Holiday 2021 roll out.
SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA (Development)
The back half of 2021 will be shooting this WW2 Christmas story that Mr. Rance Howard was my script consultant with. We had great conversations on WW2 and farming. He was suppose to play the grandfather but I’m sure he’ll be smiling from above.
We will start casting for our German leads so if you are German or can speak German please do reach out. We’ll also be looking for our young male lead. It is exciting to think of this beautiful “True story” to be filmed next year. We have a few units to still assign funding wise but already have commits. We’ll start the company early in 2021 and get that film prepped for an end of 2021 shoot!
FOR THE LOVE OF CATCH
We’re in talks to get our camera team back shooting more interviews on the west coast. Also editing of the doc itself will begin in earnest. This is a great CDI side project that puts a spot light on a great art/sport.
SMOKE & MIRRORS – Digital VFX work is underway and we’ll be also getting the credits done. From there we look forward to a 2021 roll out on this cool short film that we will look to expand into a feature. The short was taken from one of my feature scripts which I need to finish up.
I’m going to wrap this blog up so I can return to winterizing the yard and do some tree decoration. My goals for the next few weeks include DEVELOPMENT work, dispersement of moneys earned to investors and prepping end of year biz taxes. I’m so excited for 2021 and overall I feel as odd as 2020 has been – we pulled out a pair of big wins with LOST HEART release and BEST YEARS GONE into post. So enjoy this time with family and friends and get ready for the new year!
Giddy Up!
DJ
NEW Casting, Premiere and Development Updates
Good morning everyone. WOW! Lots of new international readers from around the globe. Coffee cheers. This month has been a kick into a new gear as we’re preparing for a cast and crew premiere this weekend followed by two virtual premieres via ENCOURAGE TV (Nov 7th and 21st) and the start of filming end of this month on BEST YEARS GONE.
We’re looking at filling the new holes we have in our cast and crew. I know this environment has some people cautious and rightfully so but good communication is still a must. I had situations where I was chasing a few people down to try and get answers on availability. At the same time we had others (and still do) awaiting an opportunity to join the Tribe CDI on this next journey. My reminder is just for all of you to use good communication. I do NOT want artists I have to kick in the butt – CDI is full of aggressively passionate artists and that is what we are looking for. That said, many communicated very timely and I thank you. We are still looking at a few camera support and grip & electric roles. A few castings are still being discussed but the schedule is about done now and will start getting dispersed this weekend and start of the new week.
Along those lines I want to announce the additional of a humble Hollywood legend who is joining BEST YEARS GONE. My dear friend Lana Wood (Diamonds are Forever) will be playing a very funny part in the film. We’re all looking forward to seeing her and creating another wonderful story.
Our sponsors are starting to roll in also and with CDI films getting millions of eyes of exposure. This is becoming a great way for our partners to showcase their brands. I want to thank Lerma Transportation Inc. again for traveling with us again with their generous sponsorship. More to follow!
The LOST HEART project is so exciting as we get ready to show the world our next story. The cast and crew premiere has opened up some restriction-wise which is now allowing a few more to join. Our outside premiere will have a large drive-in like screen which will be a unique viewing. I go up there this Thursday to start the planning. After this event the national PR will continue and the film could play a few theater chains. I know they are hurting and we would love to help them if we could.
WILD FAITH and HASTINGS TV Series is gaining traction as the film keeps bringing 100,000’s of views a week and the 1st season of the TV series is almost planned out. I have a few meetings over the series in the coming weeks. We hope to roll cameras in the spring. Make the time to meet the WILD FAITH characters and enter into the world of 1870’s Michigan.
MBF: Man’s Best Friend – Thank you to all the good people reaching out after watching this film. The best thing I can say is leave a review and recommend it to friends and family. And the on-going question is will I showcase my martial arts in another film? If the right story calls for it is my best answer.
Speaking on that – I do have some new discussions about representation on outside films. My schedule is a bit busy but I do love the joy of just going off to act in a powerful story without the producer responsibilities. We will see this year is about full. Playing Gil Gilles in this next film will take me right to the holiday season.
One of my favorite things about the family and friend holiday season is THE QUEST TRILOGY. We did a unique trilogy of biblical adventures part 1 being FORTY NIGHTS, part 2 CHASING THE STAR and part 3 is THE CHRIST SLAYER. The distributor is doing a new trilogy trailer and I’m excited to see it! I think you will find these films different than many of the other films out there on this subject matter. So take a chance and take a watch this holiday season.
Behind the scene photos for the movie Renovation, which was shot in Yuma, AZ. The actors include Jonny Dark, Lana Woods, DJ Perry and others. Renovation the movie is about a group of house flippers who get caught up in a 20 year old crime spree when they take on a flip that just may be too big. Suspense Horror.
Also if you like the spooky and the haunting stories of the season I’ve done my share in my days. A few of the more frightening might be The 8th Plague, GPS, Deadly Renovation, Darkest Night, Bestseller, Darkest Night and if cheesy monster movies are your thing my first starring film IN THE WOODS might be your cup of tea.
as “John Choler” in HEAVEN’S NEIGHBORS
An early CDI film that has a great fall look is FIGURE IN THE FOREST starring Dean Teaster and Mary Jo Cuppone and can be purchased on DVD with HEAVEN’S NEIGHBORS (Aaron Jackson/DJ Perry) in a limited run double feature. This is part of the CDI Classic Collection and will make a great stocking stuffer.
I want to do the same thing with CDI’s 1st and 2nd films KNIGHT CHILLS and FROM VENUS next year. I will start having it authored over the winter and will release it next year. If you haven’t seen the film KNIGHT CHILLS a good read and watch go hand in hand so consider buying the book.
Talking of books and stocking stuffers – the Cat book I participated in can be purchased now.
I’m going to wrap this up. I will say that the AUTUMN ALE has made an appearance at some of the meetings and was met with approval. It has a NEWCASTLE like taste if anyone is aware of the beer. We’re still harvesting from the garden and it’s about time to harvest another round of green beans. Who knows with the tomatoes a new batch of The Green Goblin? Maybe:)
SOON WE WILL SET SAIL! I’m going to update my master TO DO list and get things rolling for this coming week. I hope each and everyone of you enjoys the new season. I’m prepared for some hard work to get this next story in the can as we use to say when shooting film. Stay safe and be kind to one another including folks that have different opinions and perspectives than you. I will keep doing what I do and who sits in the White House will not change that for me.
Until next week. Coffee cheers! Coffee Sponsors?
DJ
‘Best Years Gone’ revs up beginning to Announce Sponsors and stars! Also Lost Heart premiere and more…
In Michigan we are waking up to some chilly mornings and that has me rethinking my wardrobe on this next film BEST YEARS GONE. We were ready to shoot in April but with the virus shut down it has dragged us into fall. So I need to re-look at my clothes and such because Oct/Nov can be COLD in Michigan.
We have our shoot blocks set and we’ve put a few days between blocks to let us adjust, pivot and deal with any issues that could arise. We also pulled the shoot location down to better scout, prep and film this next story. We have some great locations forming up and cars, did I say cars? We will once again have some cool rides showcased.
We’ll be announcing this week the addition of a new guest star to our cast whom we’ve worked with before and is always a joy. Additionally we’ll be announcing the first of our sponsors. We have several jumping on board to get millions of exposure eyes upon their goods or services. The first is our longtime partner The Candleberry Candle Company. They have helped make our away from home trips more special. The other is Lerma Transportation that has been a sponsor since we filmed the biblical adventure trilogy in Yuma.
But before that we have an exciting event coming up. We’re doing a cast and crew screening that will be filmed so that we can bring the event and premiere right into your homes for one night only via ENCOURAGE TV. It is a free app and will allow you to watch several movies of ours including the premiere. It costs nothing and you don’t have to provide credit cards or anything. So download it now and enjoy the product of CDI and other filmmakers. November 7th is the online LOST HEART premiere.
My CAT book that I was a contributing author has been released nationally and I’m curious as to what you all thought of my story in there. If you take a read please do let me know your thoughts! It might make a good Christmas present.
WILD FAITH – We are enjoying a beautiful surge in audiences watching and sharing this film. Here is the Encourage TV link –
The millions of views is giving us solid ground to launch the TV series. I have some important meetings coming up about the series. Our hope is to film those in the Spring 2021 before filming a WW2 drama in the fall. I do love this movie and seeing all the positive reactions made me feel grateful.
Also building an audience with over 400k+ views on just Encourage TV is MBF: MAN’S BEST FRIEND – watch free here!
I’ll wait to push THE QUEST TRILOGY but I’m excited to watch and see the films as they bring us into the holiday season. The three films FORTY NIGHTS, CHASING THE STAR and THE CHRIST SLAYER will reach even more audiences this year!
WRAP UP:
The chickens in the new coop have been doing great. The garden harvest is going strong with green beans coming in now. I harvested the HOPS and last week we had the first test tastes of the AUTUMN ALE. I need to rack the wine to my secondary and that will be ready in a few weeks. I have some wood cutting to do since I’ve already had the office wood stove kicking on two different days. I also had an unusual situation yesterday. I had a weak and stumbling bumblebee and I had recalled reading about at the end of the season they can overwork. Their sugars drop and they are unable to fly and often die. I took a drop of molasses and put it near. It drank and after a few minutes flew off. I was really happy that I could help. We are going to head off in a few to one of the last flea markets of the season. I love looking for props and wardrobe. I found a great piece for the next film in some tattered mechanic jump suit for only $1.
I hope that during these times you all make the extra effort to show kindness and understanding to your fellow human beings. We have a lot of issues putting pressure on our lives. Make sure not to vent that on loved ones or strangers. They are also likely facing some of the same challenges and maybe some you are unaware of. Be appreciative of the family and friends in your circle. Enjoy the time with one another and keep creating!
DJ
The Weekly Round Up – Who is Ready to See ‘Lost Heart’ ?????
Flea Market Finds!!!
I’m fresh back from one of the local flea markets. I love to find past treasures that often end up as props either for a film set or a character. Not just for me but for others also. I’ve been just on cloud nine with the soon-to-release LOST HEART. I was really happy with the writing blend and even more on how Jesse Low and the cast and crew all performed and captured the story. I was heavily influenced by Spielberg when I was growing up. I think LOST HEART has a good mixture of humor and adventure and leaves you with a ‘feel good’ vibe. A film like MBF: MAN’S BEST FRIEND could not do that and keep the message strong. WILD FAITH had that uplifting ending as did FORTY NIGHTS and even THE CHRIST SLAYER. But CHASING THE STAR was written as the ‘Empire Strikes Back‘ of the biblical adventure trilogy. I’m excited that for this holiday window (Thanksgiving to Easter) they will be pushing the trilogy as a whole. They are best when seen all together. A new TRILOGY trailer will be edited by our distributor.
Back to LOST HEART you say! As I told our team – the film is done. The film is delivered to the distributor. It will be seen by millions around the world. So good job to our team. But we are now fighting for the icing on the cake. The theatrical events and premiere be in drive-in, theatrical or yes, even online. We are exploring a one night online premiere that would allow EVERYONE to participate in the event. The idea we have is a good one and would be DIFFERENT, but could be powerful. Its would include filming the pre and post party and broadcasting that with the premiere showing. The film will also be going to various networks to evaluate for ‘exclusive release’ or a period of time where the film can only be seen at this channel for a month or two. I would enjoy seeing it play on TV a while before the whole home-video release. We will see as talks continue this week. I don’t care how you all see the film we’re just looking forward to it being seen.
This month will be some investor dispersement as several of the films are earning steadily along. There is a fair amount of bookkeeping work that happens so that end-of-the year accounting goes smoothly. Watching the films and leaving reviews is a couple ways you can help small business. Many of you have been supporting us as shown by the numbers and the fan mail and we cannot thank you enough. You are why we tell these stories and we will continue to entertain you for many years to come.
SUBSCRIBE TO THE TRIBE at http://www.cdiproductions.com
OTHER TIDBITS
- More talks on the WILD FAITH TV series ‘Hastings’ including with possible partners in a western studio. I’m excited to see the on-going adventures.
- Putting presentation materials together on the new WW2 film slated for 2021.
- NEW poster art and setting up first interviews with our Catch-Can documentary.
- NEW poster art underway and audio evaluation with SMOKE & MIRRORS dir and post-audio.
- Announced make-up department for upcoming BEST YEARS GONE the ladies from Gals and Ghouls.
- Soon to announce some of the first sponsors working with us on the BEST YEARS GONE movie.
- Worked final edits on my new book contribution with editor on ‘Second-Chance Cats’ book and signing deal on the next book contribution which is a book featuring dogs. My story is about my Luke Brown who was my inspiration in the MBF film.
- This and a few other opportunities has me thinking about literary representation again.
- LOST HEART BTS is forthcoming – just wrapping up some paperwork.
Is it MSU football time yet?
I’m going to sign off and do a few things around the homestead and the office. This past week I got to peel off a day and go to a couple of lakes with family. I’ve been getting things around for the beer and wine making and I’m going to get one or both of those going. We have new fall crop in the garden and we’ve started taking tomatoes. We had a few days that reminded us of fall coming. I know that wood stove and chill will soon be in the air. I hope everyone keeps the course and try to have patience with one another. Coffee toast – we’ll talk again next week.
DJ
Mother’s Day Wishes and Stacking the CDI Slate
Hazelnut coffee cheers and welcome to all our new readers from the France and the European Union. Let’s also start by wishing all the mothers out there Happy Mother’s Day. I sent my momma good wishes this morning and will drop off a gift later and spend a few moments with her. We’re now several weeks into this stay-at-home order and I’ve been extremely productive. My entire neighborhood has been working on their yards building, trimming, raking, grooming and it’s a good use of energy. When I get my fill of computer and calls I go work the yard. I’ve been prepping the garden. A few potted plants are already in and the first rhubarb stalks have been harvested for upcoming wine making. I need one more things before I can make a batch of beer. Funny thing is I haven’t had anything with alcohol since our shut down of state a few months ago. But I will look forward to raising a few glasses once we can socialize again. Let’s see…
Momma tribute – I’m so appreciative to have had the attentive mother I had, unless is was General Hospital time:) She was active in all our school activities and taught us many life lessons. Love and appreciate any of your mother figures in your life.
FILM UPDATES:
BEST YEARS GONE – This ship is fully financed and sitting in the harbor waiting to sail. We’ll make an assessment on Friday and communicate with our cast and crews. I believe our targeted window to shoot will be August but that depends also on the state of things. But our director Shane Hagedorn and DP Travis Hayward can work on their shots. We producers are working on setting everything up including some final casting and crewing. The character prep has been great fun and I’m so looking forward to telling this funny and heartfelt story – soon:) We will be announcing a few more actors and crew in the coming weeks. We’ll be ready to move ahead soon using common sense and safety as our guide.
LOST HEART – This amazing tale filled with humor and heart is nearing the finish line. The music, sound design, VFX are all coming together and very soon we will have a finished film. I love comedy and I’m excited that this film We’re in talks to add some additional drop music to Dennis Therrian’s incredible score. Also have a fun cameo from another star. I will know more about the release roll out very soon.
MAN’S BEST FRIEND keeps expanding and the reaction by the fans has been humbling. If you have not seen this film make the effort. It is a good representation of the challenges many of our military veterans deal with. And dogs:)
THE QUEST TRILOGY – FORTY NIGHTS, CHASING THE STAR, THE CHRIST SLAYER – I did a great in-depth interview for ‘Faith on Film’ due out this month. These films are good watching at anytime but our strongest window is Thanksgiving to Easter. These films are expanding into more foreign territories. If you see them in your country send me a pic of the poster art of DVD covers, trailers. It is great to see them in all different languages.
WILD FAITH – This mid-western just keeps growing an audience. We’re in talks on the TV series with many entities and even in discussions about starting a western studio. The TV show HASTINGS will follow the on-going adventures of the Murphy family and friends. I’m excited about this TV series and I think we’ll have more to report soon.
ADDITIONAL DEVELOPMENT
We have a 2021 WW2 project that is coming together nicely. I had talks with a foundation that is going to be financing part of the budget. I’ve already had a few people step up and want to be involved as an investor and we haven’t even approached them yet. I will be doing the writer (me) and director (Anthony Hornus) process in the coming weeks. This is another beautiful story and will allow the CDI artists to play in yet another time period.
A documentary film and a few other features are in development. The animation division is being geared up and we are evaluating our scripts and looking at teams of animators. If you have strong animation skills feel free to drop a line. I’m moving forward in my writing on the developing SciFi film and maybe a few other pieces:)
I wanted to also put a shout out to musician/writer Ronnie Lee whose book ‘For Generations to Come’ will be releasing later this year. I gave some feedback while working on the audio book version and endorsed this artist. I’m reading an authors copy and it is such a great read. It make you feel like your are there. It has lots of pictures that helps bring things to life.
Our merchandise part of CDI will be growing this year also. Looking into drop-shipping on eBay and more. I’ve even got a call this week with a puzzle company to talk collaboration with CDI product. I’ve used all this time to get caught up, organized and prep to move ahead. We’ll have a few film projects lined up and ready to go.
I’m going to get on with my day. As always I’ve enjoyed my time with all of you. Again much love to my mother and to all the mothers out there. Stay positive and lean on love vs hate.
Coffee cheers!
DJ
SPRING Updates – Looking Ahead!
I’m sitting here sipping my hazelnut coffee in my Oswald’s Bear Ranch cup. We were planning another UP Michigan trip when all this virus stuff erupted. Now we spent a good amount of time discussing that last week and so I’m not going to hammer that this week. In Michigan we have had our stay extended for two weeks. I’ll just call it confinement for all the things in my youth I got away with. Again it was a wonderful week of organizing, personal and biz calls and getting things done. Let’s start with our next film up – BEST YEARS GONE.
This week we’ll load in the last financial piece and we’ll be all ready to sail once the storm passes. We’ve got a new schedule to review and I’m putting some fine tuning to the budget now that our day-of-days is more defined. We’re announcing more of our crew and cast and preparing to do a few ZOOM script reads. Shot lists are being prepared and I for one will be ready to get out and tell another story.
I had some productive talks with our distributor and we’re already looking at marketing for the immediate and the year ahead. The Quest Trilogy has been playing strong during the holiday window which runs after Halloween on the run up to Thanksgiving through Easter. Many new countries like Mexico, Brazil and more have enjoyed our three biblical adventures. We spoke of them cutting a great TRILOGY trailer for the next ‘holiday’ season.
NOTE: I also had the pleasure of watching Douglas James Vail’s new film 40: The Temptation of Christ – that also imagines the 40 days of Jesus in the desert. I enjoyed their beautiful locations, camera work and the unique way they handled the temptations. Take a watch if you enjoy these stories.
LOST HEART is just finishing up music and will be turning to sound design this last month before we mix, master and deliver. There is going to be a big need for new content so I think we’ll get a good push with this story. We might have a few other surprises when it comes to this film. This week ahead the distributor is working to lock up DVD wrap art. I would guess we’ll see pre-sales start after a while but we’ll see if we do any exclusive TV runs first. I’m excited to put this fun, heartfelt movie out into the marketplace. – Soon.
WILD FAITH / HASTINGS TV SERIES
The film is gathering fans as the distribution keeps getting deeper. Meanwhile we continue to have promising discussions on the TV series. If you have not seen the film please do and let me know your thoughts on a TV series. Like all the films, I had some fan mail on this film talking about the power of the themes and how nice it was to spend time in a world more simple.
MBF: MAN’S BEST FRIEND is also making the rounds thanks to all you fans out there. The reviews and word of mouth keeps growing our audience. I’m so excited that this film is making people ponder and discuss the topics. So watch with your family including the furry ones. As with any of the films just google the film in quotes and it will show where you can buy the DVD or watch the film. Again a big salute to all our service men and women who serve.
At this time my thoughts are with all our family and friends and we all look forward to sharing a few in-person laughs. Soccer season is approaching and I’m in hopes that we can still enjoy that. The blossoms are starting to bloom on the newly trimmed apple and mulberry trees. The hops and rhubarb are also starting to get some size and that is fun to watch. I’m going to use this nice day to get some more outdoor tasks completed. I hope you all have a wonderful week and be safe!
DJ
Loss of a Friend and Using Time Wisely
The sun has come through the clouds and I’ve got my coffee here with me. Welcome new readers from New Zealand, China, Philippines and more. As we ride out this event as one many things have changed. For the first time in the world we’re dealing with something as WE versus ME. I think it’s the first time in my lifetime and maybe everyone’s lifetime where this unified perspective prevails. These next couple weeks are suppose to be hard on the population. It is interesting how as this ramped up everyone was asking each other if anyone knew an infected person. In a matter of days the answer became, “I know someone who knows something and a day later we all knew people. This event will effect everyone either by loss of family or friend.
With the virus attacking my concern goes to the more venerable. I have been making a few calls a day to catch up and check on friends. I’ve been meaning to circle back with a friend and associate Ray Nikolaison whom I produced ‘Book of Ruth’ with a handful of years ago. He has been having health challenges but steadily getting better and we last talked of a few film projects in development. I was planning to check with him this weekend when I was sadly informed he passed away. I’ve not confirmed that the virus did this but was told it was a possibility.
Ray and I talked for years before ‘Book of Ruth’ came together exploring all kinds of funding options. Ray was a deep voiced, dry humor man who worked slow and steady towards a goal. He would call and always ask if he was talking to THE DJ Perry. We shared many mutual friends like Dan “Grizzly Adams” Haggerty who passed a few years ago. We had some lengthy conversations over scripts, distribution and acting. He joins a growing group of artists who have left the game. No more struggles to tell a story. RIP Ray and thank you for creating with me over all these years.
I’ve been blessed to receive such great fan mail from all the people out there watching our films with their families and solo while in isolation. WILD FAITH is getting known as a story that plays equally well for kids and adults. MAN’S BEST FRIEND is bringing the plight of wounded veterans and dogs to the masses. THE QUEST TRILOGY (FORTY NIGHTS, CHASING THE STAR and THE CHRIST SLAYER) is a perfect watch/re-watch for the Easter season. The films are all on Amazon, Tubi and many TV networks and platforms. I know UPTV just included THE CHRIST SLAYER amongst the Easter classics, must see’s for Easter. That was our goal to create some new watch traditions for families for many years to come. WICKED SPRING, 7 STONES…feel free to explore the entire collection.
I’ve been doing some watching myself and on SHAMELESS I’m seeing many old friends like Charlene Amoia from TANGY GUACAMOLE. Sammy Peebles whom I worked with on MAN’S BEST FRIEND. I hear rumor that Josh and Scott Perry from THE CHRIST SLAYER are on that show. A commercial comes on and there is Denny Doyle, Bob Shepherd…fun. I’ve been sorting through all my paperwork from 20+ years. My emails and folders are slowly being sorted also. This is the time to catch up on everything that has piled up over the last few years. I’ve also found all kinds of interesting PR news stories, pics and tidbits from this crazy journey.
We’ve been working post-production on LOST HEART and prep work on upcoming BEST YEARS GONE. We’ll be announcing more of our cast and crew this week. Our schedule is being tweaked and we’ll be ready when the storm passes. I’ve been having lots of fun developing this new character of Gil.
We’ve also been looking at several other possible projects to follow. HASTINGS the Wild Faith TV series has lots of good things starting to line up. I had another network exec watch WILD FAITH and comment on what a great series it will make. It will. We will. It is all about visualize and taking steps every day.
Aside from all that I’m getting the office and yard in order. I might be adding a nice outside gazebo for outside meetings as well as inside. The garden is being prepped for a new season. I saw the first growth of rhubarb and the popping of violets. Soon the mushrooms will be popping followed by mulberries, raspberries and strawberries. I have to trim the apple and mulberry trees. Maybe strawberry wine? Maybe. I might also do a run of beer also. I just need one final thing to brew that up.
I’m not going to wax on and on but the point is this storm will pass. Will you be right where you left off or way ahead due to organization, planning and implementing? I plan to be the latter. One of the secrets to success is self starting and time management. Reels. Bios updated. Use this time wisely, don’t give in to worry and waste. Be kind to one another and stay safe. I hope we all appreciate one another after this. I also hope that other world issues that affect all of us – ocean/water clean up, air clean up and wiser use of natural resources. Cures for other diseases such as cancer if the entire world focuses and shares. I see lots of good acts being born of this crisis. Be the change you want to see.
DJ
FOR WHATEVER REASON THE PIC ATTACHMENT IS NOT WORKING
LOST HEART Preps Post Audio and More…
I’m sipping on my morning coffee and happy to be sitting down with all of you. Again our reader BASE jumped this past week by a substantial number. Many new countries joined us in our read. Maybe the subject matter hit home with some of you. Either way I want to welcome all our new readers. So grab your favorite relaxing beverage and join us. I hope you all in the path of the storms stayed safe. Michigan got some but our home town of Lansing was not too bad. We’ve had much worse in the past years.
I’m excited to see all the new year projects that are coming together. This is also the start of a new decade and I’m excited to see what our creative tribe will produce.
WRITING
I’ve been working away on the new script. The book I’m turning into a screenplay is coming along great. I’m at the half way point and after a read through with one of our development producers, I feel great about it. I found a character I related to and decided to write from that characters point of view. It is a 300+ page book so limiting the POV is helping me to target the 90-100 page mark. I’m currently called it “Best Years Gone” which is more reflective of the script. The book may ride out under a different title which is just fine. Same story but two different approaches – I like to find those unique takes on a story. I will have the script completed this month. This will be a 2020 CDI production. We got some good news about one of the locations we may use to tell this story. It is a piece by piece building of what will be another CDI story.
READING
The Sat reading event of …
…was cancelled due to the severe weather and will be rescheduled for May I’m told. I will pass along any info I get on that new date.
We have 4 other script/projects in various degrees of development. One of them is the new project that MBF director Anthony Hornus will helm. It is another CDI period piece that takes place during WW2. Distribution interest is in place and we’re building the funding pieces as we speak. Once I get done with my current writing I will work on the directors draft with Mr. Hornus. We will be putting a call out to actors of German ancestry who can speak German.
THE QUEST TRILOGY – I’m excited to have all three of these films in the marketplace. I want to try and work on a TRILOGY trailer that pitches all three films at audiences. They are meant to be seen in order and together so I think that TRILOGY aspect has to be reenforced to our audience members.
WILD FAITH – We’ve almost finished putting some presentation materials together for ‘Hastings’ the WF TV series. I will be working with a new mgt company in trying to find the right home/partners for the series. This TV series would shoot in MICHIGAN! If you have Amazon Prime this film is free to watch. Please do and leave your review and comments on the Amazon/IMDB sites.
MBF: MAN’S BEST FRIEND – This amazing little film is also now free if you have Amazon Prime. We’re also seeing more DVD retails places since 1/7/2020 so I do recommend adding the DVD to your collection. It will play in Feb in Bedias, Texas and a handful of festivals and events. ICFF will be one of them and perhaps our home town festival CAPITAL CITY FILM FESTIVAL. We are planning on additional showings this year including in Hollywood for our amigos there. The response to this film continues to make me smile. Thank you to all of you that have reached out.
LOST HEART – So this past week we say edit 2 of the film. We have a watch and talk through session at the studio with Dennis Therrian who is prepping to do the music and sound design. The movie is REALLY GOOD. I’m excited for all the artists involved to see the final results. We’re prepping to do a bit of music work in Nashville in the coming weeks. The film will release late Summer or Early Fall is my best guess. We might have some art work to show soon and a trailer is next once we lock picture and move it to post audio.
I might bring this to a close. We have protein waffles almost done in my Death Star waffle maker which was a gift. I’m been outlining scenes for the script writing to hit hard again on Monday. I’m lining up a few meetings for next week at the fort. This week I plan to outline and assign some of the development tasks to our CDI producers. Updates to the CDI website including some casting announcements. http://www.cdiproductions.com
Aside from that I’m just getting ready for a decade of great new projects. Have a wonderful Sunday and week ahead.
DJ
WELCOME DECEMBER!
Welcome to December 1st! I’ve honestly had Christmas songs buzzing around in my head for a couple months. The last few days we’ve changed the house over from Thanksgiving to Christmas. We hosted a Thanksgiving dinner that went great despite the fact that our family had an out-of-state funeral to attend. Good ole ‘Dutch’ passed away and I became to new owner of a few pair of boots. He lived to be a ripe 89 years old and lived his way for sure.
We went out on the day when everyone was shopping and harvested a beautiful tree. The animals were so excited, especially Lulu our cat. We did do a few selective shopping trips but the timing was chosen for minimal traffic. I cannot handle huge crowds like that so give me a saw and let’s get a tree instead. Finn approves!
Apparently I cannot recall the huge thunder that accompanied our blanket of beautiful snow this morning. But we do have a winter wonderland and later today I’ve have to go light a fire to the office wood stove. Tomorrow I’m picking up the deer that will provide us with meat over the next year. We eat maybe 75/25 of plant vs meat but we do enjoy venison. Any other meat we usually get give the 4H in Summertime. So on the food front we are very blessed. We even plan to roast up some beets from our garden and our apples will make another pie or two. Welcome to December 1st!
MOVIES!
We are awaiting a commercial check still to disperse to our cast and crew but we will be dispersing some revenue on a few of the motion pictures this week. This is the last month of the year and I’ll be also working to update our materials and promotional sites. I have lots of help with all that work and it does take a tribe. We also will be looking at all the foreign countries and territories the movies are available in.
- MBF: Man’s Best Friend continues to stream and sell on DVD. It will play on Dec 5th in Kentucky at the Equuos Film Festival. But please do take a watch. Vote and or review on IMDB, Amazon or wherever you watched it from.
- MBF has special charity theatrical showings being set up in FL and MI for the new year. Also a few additional festivals will play our film. Stay tuned!
- WILD FAITH talks were part of the discussion with our distributor and my soon to be new management. The idea of a sequel or TV series is getting real. We just need to pull some pitch materials together. If you have not watched this movie yet, treat yourself.
- The Quest Trilogy which consists of Forty Nights, Chasing the Star and The Christ Slayer are selling deeper into territories across the globe. These three biblical adventures were special because I got to use the ‘look’ and ‘style’ of Star Wars to tell this unique and powerful award-winning stories. It was nice to discuss these with our distributor and the next “biblical era” films to follow. My pitch on the new story to write was met with excitement.
- Writing on that will have to wait as I’m currently engaged in translating a book into a screenplay. My working title is “Hope of Heaven” and has many of the special ingredients found in LOST HEART. I’ve finished my read and this week I start to write! I’m excited to weave this story which will film next year late Summer in Michigan. We will be looking for a pair of twin actresses 18-25 to co-star so if you fit that breakdown send me an email direct. perrydj@aol.com
- Speaking of LOST HEART, the rough edit is done and we will be feeding notes to director Jesse Low who will be doing the final edit. It will move on to music and sound design Jan 1st! I will be sharing some additional official stills that are using the new official LOGO.
- We have several other development projects moving right along and one of them is an awesome WW2 era film. It will prep in 2020 and shoot in 2021. We will provide more information in the coming year.
- I’ve also been doing narration for book for a fellow artists and promoting THE HORSE OF MY DREAMS book launch with Revell. I will be attending an event reading in Jan in Grand Rapids, MI, more info as we get closer.
- I’m trying to finally spend a bit of time on a new sizzle reel and a few character reels from my performances in THE CHRIST SLAYER, MBF and WILD FAITH. The new management company is presenting to a few network shows so casting folks will get to see Jesus, Ben Lily and Paul – I think it shows a nice range of roles. Thank you Scott B for the Paul Landings character reel.
- We’re slowly working towards a new merchandise department at CDI. I’m excited to keep exploring this more.
I hope you all continue to enjoy the season with family and friends. I plan on many more fort/office get togethers. I’m excited to do a few script reads also over the next couple weeks. I’m going to keep moving and getting stuff done. We put a few lights outside and today lights might go up on the tree. Have a wonderful Sunday and week ahead.
Be good to one another!
DJ
NEW NOVEMBER ‘CDI’ FILM DEVELOPMENT AND UPDATES
Coffee cheers to you all! So it was a great weekend for getting things done. I’ve been playing all kinds of catch up as we head into the end of the year. I’ve done what might be a final mowing of the yard and getting the firewood around. We had a good bout of wet cold with Halloween being rain, sleet and snow for most of the day/night. Now some argue for a better night or a less crappy night but that was part of the fun. The challenges of stomping around in a costume and accepting candy. I spent the day reaching out to a handful of old-school elementary school mates. I also called my mother early asking if my costume was done being sewn. She was confused until I confessed my tease and we talked about the great costumes she and my grandma Swope use to make us kids. My barbarian outfit pushed Grandma’s old sewing machine to the limit. My best costume was a robot made from a large box with tube arms and multiple dials, switches and such on the outside. I recall falling and all the friends having a good laugh as I could not stand back up. I was like a turtle on his back. I remember a great Halloween party at one friends house with games and such. I had a wonderful childhood and for that I feel grateful because as an adult I realize that is not always the case. So during the season I enjoyed many classics like THE BRIDE OF FRANKENSTEIN and several others. Now we are onto the “Holiday season” that runs from Nov. to Easter and so it begins.
I’ve started my Christmas shopping as I love giving gifts. I’m a person who will do that all year around but I like how during the season, we stop to have a drink and share a laugh together. I had intended to have a Fall CDI party to replace the rained out Summer one but one thing after another kept falling on the schedule. I had weddings and memorials falling on the same day. We had just a busy life fall but that is the way of things. We just got done hashing out Thanksgiving whereas again it is near impossible to be in multiple places. So again I’m smoking a turkey and let me tell you it’s hard to find rolling papers in that size. Just kidding:)
We’re starting to revamp the CDI website for the new year ahead. Here is one of the narrative book commercials we did for Baker Publishing.
We also recently completed another commercial for a software company and that is the cool Victorian age pics people saw. We created content for a software demo and I was able to pull a small one day script from my work-in-progress feature script “Smoke & Mirrors”. So I’ve been wrapping up paperwork on that project and we hope to have the first invoice paid out next week so I can disperse. It is different working in the net 30, 60, 90 day corporate cycle. On the feature films we try to pay out ASAP to cast and crew as I know how freelancers need that. Check out http://www.cdiproductions.com to see some of the updates. We will be posting some casting notices also – so join us.
We’ll be processing and dispersing more revenue to our investors as the films continue to expand and sell. This will be the first season all three of the biblical adventures (FORTY NIGHTS, CHASING THE STAR and THE CHRIST SLAYER) will be all out on the market. Again these are NOT “faith-films” as per the new genre but films with faith at the heart of the stories. The films are not fluff and deal with deep issues that we all question and contemplate. WATCH all three together to get the greater story woven throughout the trilogy. That said I’ve also been slowly developing the next three films in the follow up trilogy.
NOTE: CDI is starting to release merchandise. A 40 Nights lobby card poster is available as are the Tee-Shirts from GHOST TOWN. Look to the Collective Development Inc. Facebook to see upcoming product.
WILD FAITH has continued to expand and amaze audiences in the power of the story. We are actively working to bring a TV series based on these characters to audiences. We have some good pieces moving on the board. If you have not seen this film yet with your family, please do take a watch.
MBF: MAN’S BEST FRIEND – In December the Equus Film & Art Festival in Kentucky will be showcasing MBF. We also are looking at several other festivals. I see that as the DVD’s are becoming more available people are buying many copies to give as gifts to family and friends who would appreciate this story. I continue to be humbled by all the great communications I have been receiving from people. Yes. Many people are also discovering for the first time that I am not disabled, at least not in a ‘Paul Landings’ sort of way. That is to my credit and I’ll accept that but as I’ve said, my heart goes out to all those vets who cannot turn it off. It is their life. So if you know someone that could benefit from watching this film – recommend it or better yet buy them a copy as a gift. I’m excited to see in three years what has happened with this film. I’m waiting to see what film theaters will run the movie. The fact that it is on home video has made a few chains bow out due to policy. But theaters need to understand that 3 main groups exist. The theater goers. The home video watchers. And the in-between who enjoy both. The theaters can get their share of viewers plus some who enjoy on the small screen want to see it on the big screen when the opportunity presents itself. See the film however you can or want but take a watch.
LOST HEART – So we are closing in on the first rough cut and soon we will do a watch through before fine tuning the edit. Once picture lock it is over to Dennis Therrian for music and sound design. First of the new year you can start looking for PR to start rolling out. 
DEVELOPMENT – We discussed the development of several projects. I’ve just signed onto a project to write a script from a book manuscript and produce the feature film. Next week I’ll be talking with the distributor and get that lined up.
Additionally we have another project that will be slated to shoot in 2021 but will start casting in 2020. We’ll be making an announcement on this film also once I get the distribution in place.
We’re also exploring returning to AZ for some filming in our spring window. We’ll be entering discussions on this project also – you all know CDI LOVES AZ especially when it is 20 below zero in Michigan.
Other seeds are being planted with a few other great talents bringing their project to CDI to produce. When time allows I might also have to finish up the feature length “Smoke & Mirrors” script. We’ll have a great proof of concept short in the coming months.
As you can see we have a great slate of business forming up. I’m excited to once again at being hired to weave a film script and to see it brought to the big screen. If you have a funded project that you want considered feel free to inquire about how a CDI associated project just might work.
Okay, today the ghosts and goblins will be replaced by turkeys and harvest baskets. We also need to pickle some beets that have been harvested. Tonight a little time with family and friends before diving into the work week. My first biz call is set for 10 am and I’m ready to get after November! Have a great Sunday and a good week ahead. Be good to one another.
DJ
The DEVELOPMENT path becomes more clear – journey on my friends…updates
I’m sitting here with my cup of hazelnut coffee as the wind blows wildly outside. The rain started yesterday and carried throughout the night. We watched a few atmospheric spooky films last night including, “I am the Pretty Thing that Lives in the House,” directed by Oz Perkins, which was a well shot mind-twister. Also yesterday a few of the talent from the “Smoke & Mirrors” short were in studio to record ADR since it is content for an audio demo. I might get back to finishing that feature script once I have a few free moments.
Speaking of writing I’m about to begin work on a script that we will film next year. I was approached by an author who wanted me to turn his new book into a film script and shoot it next year. (Fall most likely) So this week ahead will be getting the business paperwork together on that.
The storm cometh
Also I had a great project that I had put together with Rance Howard as my consultant. It is a WW2 era project that really has a wonderful message. I was approached at Norby Walter’s ‘Night of 100 Stars‘ Oscar party about writing and producing the project. To make a long story short I wrote many drafts of the script and things were moving slowly forward. I say slowly because new people kept being added into the mix that slowed it all down. A case of too many cooks in the kitchen and many of the cooks had their own agenda about what they wanted to shoot. Many of them tried to knock down and replace the story with their own pet project. These individuals were a bit older and hailed from Hollywood so that had to be the experts right? Not. So one last broken promise and I stepped back and made a string of films over the last several years. All that happened over there when I left was lawsuits against the Hollywood parties to recover “develop” money. We went on to make a string of movies, because we did not get mired in nonsense.
Fast forward several years later- Wilcox, AZ. As I stood on that stage accepting our 7th award for Wild Faith I thought about the long hard path of that film. Had Shane Hagedorn not wanted to push for that story, it never would have gotten done. I had put it on the shelf to die after failing to get the support I needed and after dealing with a handful of shameful scam artists out of Hollywood. My mind has continued to return to this beautiful story that Rance Howard and I spent hours talking about. This story had also been shelved. My mentor, friend and co-star Rance who was to play the Grandfather role has now passed. I found the courage to pull the story off the shelf and restart a few initial communications. So far it has been met with a positive reaction. It looks like I will do a new draft to trim and reduce budget slightly. This film would go out Fall/Winter 2021 since we would have some unique aspects of this story to put in place. But it looks like CDI will be doing its first WW2 film if things all come together.
WILD FAITH TV SERIES – The movie is still building momentum and I need to have some key conversations about where the series would live. We have a few great avenues to explore and I’m pretty sure we will make it happen. We need a few strong supporters and we’ll launch this Michigan-based TV series. I’m excited by the amount of talent on both sides of the camera we could use.
MBF: Man’s Best Friend – I’m hearing the first theater announcing that they will be playing this powerful drama in our Veteran’s Day march to theaters, will be our friends at Celebration Cinema in Woodland. That will allow our friends and fans in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
DONORS on Amazon Prime
Know many of you know I’ve participated in many scary films but some great filmmakers. During this last week of the season look at IN THE WOODS, The 8th Plague, Darkest Night, Locked in a Room, Deadly Renovation, Donors, Bestseller, GPS the Movie even the early CDI films KNIGHT CHILLS and FROM VENUS. I’m sure I missed a few of these films but they run the gauntlet of spooky to those that are more gory. Check the rating and get your security blanket;) The short we just did with Nathaniel Nose might be developed from my larger feature script. I like the old black and white and Hammer films more than the boobs and blood. Now the 15 year old me really enjoyed them but at my age I’ve seen a lot of red-dyed corn syrup in the dead of night in some dirty house, hotel, forest cabin, prison or locked room. I might fit the keeper of the lighthouse better than these days warning those kids to STAY AWAY! He who warns:) I would act in the right horror film again but it has to be be a good script with a capable team. This last Victorian age short got me thinking about a few of the Vampire talks I’ve had over the years. I was always a werewolf fan but again not eager to go through that make up process. Fangs might be easier:) So the question that has been put to me was – Will you do another horror film? The answer is yes if the story, team and business all add up. By business I mean paid and not just for me. Paid brings better cast and crew on the whole. I will not talk in absolutes because that is a fools talk. There are some exceptions to the rule but few, very few.
LOST HEART – As far on the other side of horror is our in post feature. This comedy drama is at the hour mark in the rough edit. My the start of Nov we plan to have a 1st cut and I want to lock it up by Jan 1, 2020. Now this film does have some mystery associated with it by way of UFO’s and Bigfoot. This film is going to be touching and humorous and I look forward to bringing it to audiences worldwide.
MISC NOTES: (As I recall them)
- Equus Film & Arts Fest has a ‘Going to the Dogs’ section and has invited MBF to play there in December in Kentucky. It could include a theatrical tour and another TV license tied in with their military outreach.
- I’m looking at my schedule about participating in a book reading in Jan. for my stories included in “The Horse of My Dreams” in stores and online now.
- In our meetings the HOPPY GRAPE APE wine is getting good response. Made from fruit and hops all gathered on our property.
- November I’m looking forward to a private screening of NECROLAND by one of my filmmaking peers Mr. Nathan Quinn.
- A collaboration or two might be in the works – one of these just might be a western.
I’m missing a few things for sure but I smell breakfast and in a few short hours we are going to spend time with the Niece and Nephew and carve pumpkins. I wish my old buddy John Luginsland was with us. The smell plus the stringy insides usually left to a chorus of laughter as he vomited like Linda Blair in The Exorcist, good times.
Have a safe Halloween everyone. Be good to one another.
DJ
FINAL Countdown to Location Pre-Production and MORE…
Good morning everyone. I first want to start my wishing my mother a Happy Birthday! She has always been supportive of the journey I’m on with storytelling via film. She is spending time with her significant other and we’ll have a nice dinner when I return from filming LOST HEART. My brother and wife are overseas on a wonderful vacation to Ireland. Tomorrow is my father’s Birthday and we just had a nice dinner with him. I gifted him a 1 gal beer making set. I do beer and wine 5 gal at a time and often share it with family, friends and film amigos. He can get the experience of what I do but on a small scale. I’m lucky to still have both my parents with me on this life journey. A few close friends have lost their loved ones recently and my thoughts are with them.
My dad to my right and Johnny Demarco on my left
So I’ve been pre-packing all week so that I can travel north for a month producing and performing in LOST HEART, our next CDI film. We’ve been announcing new talent coming on board and still have a few to announce. Here is the amazingly talented singer/actress Taylor Dupuis and I guess I can say the same about Victoria Jackson. Many will remember her from her Saturday Night Live run and the slew of TV/films that followed. They both play wonderful parts in this comedy drama.
Once this is completed I will have a week of rest and to set post in motion before a week-long vacation up in the UP of Michigan. We will be taking the dogs so they can have a few adventures also. My young furry boy Finn has been my shadow, especially during the fireworks. I know he will do well as the little man of the house.
WILD FAITH is now out on all formats digital and DVD. I’m told that in the fall it looks like it will do an exclusive run on one of the Subscription VOD platforms. If you do watch the film and enjoy it please do leave a review at the site be it Amazon, Wal-Mart, BestBuy or wherever you purchased plus on http://www.imdb.com – All this is in hopes that we’ll be doing a sequel script or on-going TV series. Thank you to all of you that have reached out to tell me how much you enjoyed the story. Keep the word of mouth going as I think the film message is needed in this day and age.
THE QUEST TRILOGY – Ahead of us in the first season whereas all three films are released and can be seen together. It is meant to be watched as FORTY NIGHTS, CHASING THE STAR and THE CHRIST SLAYER. I’ve noted that some people who watched only part 2 where slightly confused because they had not seen part 1. It is a trilogy whereas the angels and devil create a story thread throughout the three films. Many films do not examine what the events do/did to the angelic folk. They are great adventure stories that can be enjoyed anytime of year. Treat yourself to the watch. I know Amazon has all three but can be found on many platforms.
MBF: Man’s Best Friend – This powerful film will start rolling out into select theaters with myCinema in August. Home video in the fall. I know we’ve been very focused on the other CDI films but I think this movie might surprise and grab audiences. Wounded military vets and adoption dogs are the main themes. I will say that this role scared me at first. That doesn’t happen very often but when it does that is a good sign. I play a wounded Marine Paul Landings. While I’ve played other soldiers in films, many of them are from past wars like the Civil War. I know this film was made with a lot of help from military vets and I wanted to represent them well. I think I did and I’m so proud of the work all the artists did on this film. We will be planning a premiere in the town where we filmed. It will most likely be in late August or early September when we host the premiere. I should also start to have theater dates from around the country.
NEXT Sunday my blog update will be from up North as we prepare to capture the LOST HEART story. Thank you all for following along and I will be sharing some great pics in the coming weeks. You can follow the LOST HEART facebook page or http://www.cdiproductions.com landing page for LOST HEART.
Have a great week ahead and be good to one another.
DJ
Week B4 Location Pre-Production, MBF and More…
Good morning to everyone out there. The week has been a busy one for sure. Where to start? Before doing this I was working down my list of TO DO’s nearly 20 items deep trying to get a jump on tomorrow. We are very close to on-set pre-production on LOST HEART. We’ve been meeting on cast, crew and various vendors and sponsors. Tomorrow we’ll be announcing two of other female actresses joining the cast. One is an amazing musician/actress and the other a SNL alumni, so stay tuned for that tomorrow. You can follow our FB site for LOST HEART at
https://www.facebook.com/lostheartmovie/
We’ll also be announcing another major sponsor this week – which I can say enough how much that helps independent filmmakers. Some of our sponsors are already listed on the FB site and see http://www.cdiproductions.com where another LOST HEART page will be going up. Friends old and new will be coming together to tell a Michigan story.
WILD FAITH – I’ve started getting some fantastic emails from people who have watched and enjoyed the film. It is now for DIGITAL RENTAL on Amazon Prime and many platforms. On July 2nd it will release to DVD. Thank you to those who have pre-ordered. We’ll look at the TV series or sequels once the worldwide audience has spoken. I would love to do a Michigan based TV series. It would provide some great opportunities to showcase the talent here. Rent/Buy but I would love to read your reviews either on here or better yet posted to amazon.com, IMDB.com or wherever you have rented/purchased it. Giddy up!
MBF: Man’s Best Friend – We’ve been quietly prepping this film for distribution 1st to theaters with home video to follow. I had the pleasure to watch the film through this past week and I was just amazed at the powerful performances made stronger but the score by “Tricky T” 🙂 We’ll have a premiere after we get done filming LOST HEART. It will likely be in the Owosso, MI area where our director hails from. The themes of military vets and adoption dogs will touch the heart’s of many. Get ready for another wonderful Michigan story brought to you by the tribe at CDI.
The Quest Trilogy ( Forty Nights, Chasing the Star and The Christ Slayer) – If you are enjoying CDI films and want to watch a trilogy of adventure films set in the biblical times- The Quest Trilogy. Take a watch and join the viewers from around the world experiencing these stories.
I am not going to wax on about any subjects today simply because I have a long TO DO list as noted that I want to chip away at. The garden is growing nicely and this week we had a new roof put on. It took about 3 hours and I admired their work flow. The roofers and the clean up support staff. EAGLE EYE ROOFING in Mason which was recommended after they just did a roof job for fellow CDI producer Anthony Hornus. OK. I hope you all have a wonderful week. When I write next week I will be preparing to leave for on-location pre-production for a week before cameras roll.
Have a great day!
DJ
DJ Perry's Official Blog 'Clawing My Way to the Middle' 
Mother’s Day, New Theatrical Releases, Post-Work Updates, Development and More…
(Me and my beloved momma)
Hazelnut coffee cheers to you all! Let’s hear it for Mother’s and to those who mother. I’m blessed to have my momma healthy and still with us as we journey through this life. Today we have a planned picnic at a park we use to go to as kids. It will be fun and I’m looking forward to some good family time. I have soccer on the telly which is getting me excited for our season that will start in a few short weeks. To say that things have been busy would be a major understatement. Let me jump into some of that.
As we have just completed our first theatrical run of Harsens Island Revenge in Alpena we are beyond thrilled. The audiences showed up in force over two weeks with many sold out shows. I was blown away by the people who went and saw the film three or four times but they said they saw something new each time. Our director saw a few things that others did not pick up that he wanted to adjust and so he did. Now we are in a crunch to move this new version down the work flow line to be ready for Celebration Cinema’s release in Lansing (May 16th- 21st) Grand Rapids (May 16th-18th) and Muskegon (May 16th-18th) and NCG theaters that will release May 17th-21st in Owosso, Michigan. We have our first Detroit area dates for the end of May but want to firm up the run dates but know the film is coming!
So many moving parts where one email that someone isn’t CC’d on or an updating text or phone call can disrupt the flow so easily. Everyone wants to create the best experience for the audiences. An afterglow will happen after the Owosso first show on the 17th announced at the show. Lansing’s kick off on the 16th will likely have an afterglow at the Midtown Brewing Co as one of our sponsors. And I would not be surprised at other pop up afterglows. Alpena went all 1920’s with their dress and that too is welcome. We are working on many out of state showings and we’ll be rolling this film out into theaters until Oct 1st!
If you have seen Harsens Island Revenge and want to help you can leave reviews at places like ROTTEN TOMATOES, IMDB, GOOGLE and LETTERBOXD. Also you can request the film at your local theaters and if you can get a manager/booker contact we will try to set up directly. The film has been nominated for Best Picture at Red Letter Awards. We’ve had several nominations and wins over the years most recently was 2023 SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA won Best Screenplay and Best Picture beating out some heavy competition. They have also started to roll out individual nominations and David Reardon has been nominated for Best Actor thus far. I’m sure we’ll have more nominations as this film really did all come together in a powerful way. We are not all about awards but it is a wonderful thing to have all the hard work recognized. This train is moving and just getting started!
Wild Faith Christmas is deep into music and color correction with our director working on an opening credit sequence. This is another beautiful film sequel to our very popular WILD FAITH movie. Watch the first film if you are interested in getting to know some of the characters ahead of time. I do want to explore putting the original back into theaters for a few weeks before we release Wild Faith Christmas into theaters. We planned the trailer in front of the ‘Harsens’ movie in Alpena and we will see if we can do that for our other releases. If you are reading this and own or work at a TV station/platform and are interested in the TV spin off reach on out. We have a season one scripted and ready to film.
ROM COMS MUST DIE – This comedy-thriller post work kicked off our week in the McGraw studio making some final adjustments and notes to the edit and the color. We are experimenting with credit sequences and a first trailer is being cut. I’ve been having fun learning some AI and creating comic panels of our characters in the film. You can see them on the Facebook page and on CDI’s Instagram page. Once we lock the picture all final VFX and sound design will be finished. Once Wild Faith Christmas is done we will have Dennis Therrian do the musical score and mix.
Development:
Three films moving right down the line 1, 2, 3 and meanwhile I’ve been having development talks over a few of our scripts looking to film this year. We are exploring the main actors, directors and DP’s and I’m having talks with funding folks. I try to match the films up with the right folks and give first rights to participate to those who have supported us. But we have turned funders away on the last few films because when we have what we need that is all we require. But we also have a growing list of sponsors from over the years.
I do still have a few possible book to script projects. Until you have a real solid script it is hard to do any real development. It is a busy time and getting some call times set up has been challenging. But I’ve always lived by “one film getting one more” and so if that continues to hold true we’ll be making another three films in the not too distant future.
The Week Ahead:
WRAP UP: I could wax on a while on everything underway. I had some great talks this past week with folks we’re working with. I love people getting opportunities and growing in their craft. I was lamenting a few folks who’s communication is sub par to severely lacking. People outside our immediate circle seem to respond better when we’re casting, crewing or generally giving. I am thankful for my old school friends from before all the movie madness. They keep me grounded and appreciate me for me. Many of my feelings about our industry I put into the writing of ROM COMS MUST DIE. The desperation many have to succeed that twists them and haunts them. I feel super lucky to have been born before technology ruled people’s lives. When I see pictures of people gazing into their phones I see a mirror. Mesmerized by vanity. Identity and self worth tied to their likes, follows or comments. 90% of the social media seems like poison. Peddling fear, insecurity and such to be able to sell a cure. Like Public Enemy says, Don’t Believe the Hype.
The property is looking beautiful with grasses, flowers and clover starting to grow. Dandelions and Violets everywhere with busy bees hard at work. Waking to birds is one of my favorite things and watching the squirrels play and carry on with their business is amusing. With the deck we’ve decided to tackle it ourselves. I’ve been doing a light spot sanding focusing on the railings and imperfections. A new chicken coop community center is about to be constructed. I’ve been working on a retaining wall for the underside of the deck. I have plants growing all over the place and friends already excited for herbal teas. Just having my hands in the dirt is really helpful to balance all the desk work. I’m going to wrap this up to actually go tend a few things in the yard. After I have to get things around for the picnic and before that a stop at the flea market. I hope you all have a wonderful Sunday and recharge. I’ll be ready to hit the ground running on Monday. I was up early today and enjoyed my peaceful quiet time with that first cup of coffee.
Coffee Cheers!
DJ
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May 11, 2025 | Categories: Blogroll | Tags: 1920's, AI, Alpena, Best Actor, Best Picture, Best Screenplay, BEST YEARS GONE, birds, blog, books, CDI, Celebration Cinemas, Chasing the star, chickens, coffee, comedy, comic, comments, coop, crew, dandelions, deck, Dennis Therrian, development, eggs, fear, film, follows, Forty Nights, ghost town, google, Grand Rapids, Harsens Island Revenge, haunt, hazelnut, herbs, horror, hype, IMDB, insecurity, knight chills, Lansing, Letterboxd, likes, Lost Heart, McGraw, Michigan, Midtown Brewing Co, momma, mother, Mothers, movie-review, movies, music, Muskegon, NCG, oscars, Owosso, picnic, plants, Public Enemy, Rotten Tomatoes, sanding, script, Silent Night in Algona, soccer, technology, The Christ Slayer, The Quest Trilogy, theaters, thriller, Tubi, TV series, twist, VFX, violets, Wild Faith, Wild Faith Christmas, Yuma | Leave a comment