PEACE AND BALANCE – OCTOBER 2026 UPDATES
Hello my friends from around the world. I love seeing the breakdowns of all the readers. I so appreciate all the artists who stop through to reflect on the journey of an artist. To read my trials and tribulations and apply it to your own journey. I am sipping my hazelnut coffee which is my morning favorite. I got up and when cup in hand I explored with my furry son Finn. We listened to all the various birds and watched the squirrels wake and start their morning activities. I try to start my day with nature not technology. It is hard sometimes because of deals or medical monitoring for aging parents. But I try to start my day and end my day with zero technology.
I am and always have been a SciFi fan. I do love that technology has moved from SciFi into our real lives. What we once saw in STAR TREK or STAR WARS is now part of our lives. I’m still wrapping my head around my childhood on fascination for UFO’s now being front and center in the news. I said a month or so ago that riding in a TESLA driving itself was the most SciFi moment I’ve had in decades. We have a great film coming out at the end of the month that puts a spotlight on spirituality and technology sharing space in the new world. I think it is odd for us to image not being the Apex Thinker. We do still process information in a way energy wise that machines cannot quite replicate yet. When robots threatened to replace blue collar jobs the noise was not as loud as when it was suggested that white collar “thinker” jobs could be replaced. This stopped many in their tracks. Accountants billing hours could see machines or programs that can process the information in minutes or seconds. Hours of billable research by attorneys, consultants and such, done in moments. Many industries have been forever changed by advances in technology. Horses and wagons in transportation and military use replaced by autos. The mighty train and streamliners replaced by airplanes. Telegraphs replaced by the telephone. I could go on and on. And for those in the fading professions it became change or die. Not literally but you get it.
This week was a hard one for me personally because of juggling several things at once. Like many my age lucky enough to have one or both parents, I deal with their issues. Both have their current issues in very different ways. The medical system is a double edged sword. Modern meds that can now save someone from was once a death sentence. And a system that knows how to put a medicine bandaid on issues without regular evaluation. And doctors and medical staff are human, for now. We watch LUKE SKYWALKER inside a Bacta Tank being healed by a medical robot. (Sorry non Star Wars geeks) Would they do better at analyzing symptoms, labs and applying the correct medicine. Would they immediately know any bad drug interactions? Likely. A sad truth but the stresses and anxiety of the mind is something more complicated. The issue with compounding medicine is you lose track of what is treating the source issue and what is treating just a side effect.
So this week had me dealing with human faults. Not on purpose as I like to see most human beings as wanting to do kindness because they too benefit from that. Lazy could play into something or job burnout that is real. Another check on why technology and robots could get the edge on humanity. On one small piece of business something off my desk came back to it because someone did not read the submitted letter. On a personal level I also dealt with spending time on something that was declared as “simple” and wasn’t. And it was also thrown back because of their form not being clear. So something technology could do in seconds we take days to sort out. It is not looking good for us on that level. I also think phone trees were created by the Devil. Just joking, maybe.
So this week was full of issues and in the middle of that our elder cat foster-fail Fredrick who was showing serious symptoms has passed. We gave him a beautiful 8 months. He was loved by us and his three female kitty sisters. Or maybe he was Fredrick Hefner with his three ladies. Either way Fred had a good end of life and I encourage folks to give older adoptees a great send off. For me it is the seeking of peace. I saw a high-school classmate say something about peace over happiness. When times are tough strive for peace. Balance is what martial arts teaches and that can be mental also. So I hope all of you find peace and balance and happiness will find you. Onto some movie updates-
UPDATES-
- ROM COMS MUST DIE – has released to DVD and streaming. This is an over-the-top dark comedy about the frustrations of being an artist. The release will widen even more at the end of the month. I’m not sure how audiences nationwide are enjoying it but I’m happy that it is out there. The main push comes as we close in on the end of the month. Record a video and let us now your artist frustrations and maybe we will post it. Write a review on Amazon, IMDB, Letterbox or any review sites and we might spotlight your review. For those who have watched it Amos and Clem thank you.
- Next up to release will be AI JESUS: The Secret of the Kingdom Chip that will start its release on 10/30/26. Like my talk on technology above this film will make you laugh and maybe cry but it will make you think. It isn’t a cheap scare about the coming technology but a real look at the potential good, bad and ugly. I was inspired to write this after a real news story. I did add a SciFi spin but it is a projected path of where we might end up. So add this DVD to your CDI collection when it starts pre-sales in the coming weeks. And watch it when it streams and have those conversations with one another. I look forward to the reviews as I really don’t know how audiences will take it. The acting by the three leads Michael Rene Walton, Melissa Anschutz and Taylor Nichols is great. So I think everyone should enjoy the film. That of course is our goal every time.
- WILD FAITH CHRISTMAS – This is the follow up to one of our most popular films. Having seen the reaction to the film by our theatrical crowd I am excited to get this out to the tens of millions who have seen the first film WILD FAITH. It will be a beautiful gift of a story that I believe captures the true Christmas spirit much like SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA did. The film releases on DVD and streaming on 11/3/26. I will be heading to the Will Rogers Awards in a few weeks to see if we won GOLD, SILVER or BRONZE for my screenplay, the producing team and CDI as a production company.
- DEVIL’S PASS – (Now in post-production) This film was a collaboration with McGraw Multimedia and our friends in GA. If this project was a success it would have CDI helping produce their slate of films. It is different from CDI just having full control over production but has been healthy. It forces good communication between the parties. So far it has been a very smooth process. We have a few meetings coming up over the next two weeks that is just about communication and eliminating any grey areas that can slow the post process. We all want to make the best film we can and that is the underlying directive. We did a great Channel 10 Lansing/Jackson story that will air this week. The edit is moving right along and our director’s are very happy. If you follow our FB page we are dripping out Screen Captures and other great promo pieces. Coming in 2027!
DEVELOPMENT– I’m happy to be in a place of downshifting from production and looking ahead. As I noted CDI and our GA partners will be discussing a slate that bounces back and forth with our own CDI slate. I have truly enjoyed working with the CEO Dan Searles who like myself is a writer/actor and loves telling these stories. I am reading a few of his properties and vice versa. Our RETURN TO ALGONA (Working Title) has over half the funding committed by organizations and we are looking to close that with participating brands and private investors. It is a beautiful comparison of life from 1944 to 1968 during one of the most conflict ridden time in America. We once again follow the German artist and ex PW on his return to the town that once imprisoned him. The other film being considered being put back on the slate is the feature version of SMOKE & MIRRORS a comedic turn of the century who done it. Twice it was on the runway only to be bumped by two financed projects.
On thew writing front I’m working two scripts MBF2 which is the follow up to MAN’S BEST FRIEND, a powerful drama that has had fans clamoring for a follow up. I am in no rush to produce it but I do want to get the script out of my head. The first draft is almost complete. But I’ve been having a whole lot of fun writing WILD FAITH 3. I’ve had an 8 part TV series ready since Covid times but when the funding opportunities had too many strings we just did another feature film. I’ve adjusted the TV series to take place after the second feature film but if a good deal doesn’t present itself we will just do a third feature film. It is a world that I really enjoy writing in and so it is moving along quite quickly.
We are also working to develop several other film properties and even possible TV. I always like to put forth goals for 2027 and examine how I did with my 2026 goals. We are being forced to reexamine our processes always in the efforts of improving, streamlining and launching new initiatives. I still occasionally have that thought of how much easier it could be to just go bartend at the MooseLodge with my lifetime of stories and adventures. But soon after I realize my adventuring days are not over. I still might have a few characters locked up in my imagination to let loose on the screen. So development continues.
WRAP UP- This weekly reflection really helps me put my TO DO’s front and center. And the ability to talk about some of my own issues personally or in the artistic world helps. I still feel lucky that every day I get to do what I love. I get to work with people I love. I get to be myself and not play a role at a soul stealing job. I sometimes also enjoy the positive energy that comes with someone who was moved by a film or a performance. I don’t always have rainbows and flowers but I do realize how blessed I am. And this blessing came with sacrifice and very hard work. I try not to slip into the work-a-holic mode that helped me build what I have. But to also keep that hunger to push forward. I will be an artist until my last breath. Until I return to the fire ashes to ashes. But as you keep on your journey seek out that peace and balance. Until next week my friends! Coffee Cheers- DJ
Forthcoming Release Event, Film Updates and More!
I’m sipping the hazelnut coffee and enjoying the morning. We’ve had two nights of pretty heavy storms that had one of our furry children restless. I can’t believe 16 days before we’re in pre-production on our next film Devil’s Pass. I’ll talk more on that soon. But as for the property, I’ve been harvesting herbs for my tea, tincture and tonics. I’ll need another round of tree trims here soon. The cool mornings have begun and I’m enjoying the hints of fall in the air. The chickens have been giving us a good supply of eggs which when put on avocado toast is just incredible. I really do love eggs in all their forms. Okay onto movie updates!
FILM UPDATES
ROM COMS MUST DIE – This Friday August 28th Adam Towner and I are hosting a brew in view showing of the dark comedy. It is in Lansing, MI at a place called The Studio 313 formerly The Loft. $10 cover and doors/bar open at 6:30pm with the film starting at 7:30pm. We hope to meet some of you other artists in the area and this comedy should speak to you. At the same time you can pre-order the DVD now on Amazon with the release being 10/2/2026!
WILD FAITH CHRISTMAS – At week’s end director Shane Hagedorn will be going to the RED LETTER AWARDS to represent the film. It is up for ten nominations I do believe. The film will also be repped at the WILL ROGERS awards in October. And on November 3rd, 2026 the film will be available on DVD and to stream!
AI JESUS – This super timely and unique film is being pitched to numerous theaters for a theatrical run. You know the drill if you want it to play near us call your local theatre. Talk to management and request the film. We are awaiting for NCG to book so we can do a premiere showing in the town we filmed in, Owosso, Michigan. The film will play theaters until early 2027 and will become available on DVD and to stream late October. This film examines the good, bad and ugly of AI.
DEVIL’S PASS – This past week we’ve have work underway with all departments. We had a big art meeting last week and it was a great brainstorm session between the team led by AD Adam Towner. We have some great props at our disposal to help bring the world to life. Wardrobe department has been busy working to bring our characters to life on screen. Hospitality and Health, legal, accounting, transportation, extras and every other department are prepping. We’ve gotten our office and AD team communicating with cast and crew. I just love when the machine starts moving on its own. You can go to the FB site and sign up for Extra work with co-producer Anthony Hornus. We want to thank the entire community for all their support and assistance.
DEVELOPMENT –
RETURN TO ALGONA – This 1968 follow up to SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA is developing well. We have another interested funder and that brings us closer to our goal. Our plan is to have all the funding commits by year’s end. That will allow us to start some pre-production the first of the year.
WILD FAITH 3 – The third installment of the Wild Faith franchise is underway. I’ve been writing where and when I can but I’ll really focus in starting in October.
We do have other proposed films to consider and I’ll be evaluating that also as this year draws to a close. I’m also soon to finish a first draft on MBF2 and start a second pass. I also want to turn my attention back to two literary projects THE QUEST TRILOGY book and the Making of Knight Chills book. Have you seen MAN’S BEST FRIEND? How about the three films in The Quest Trilogy?
WRAP UP: Last week the flea market got rained out. I did a bit of looking this week at props but we are getting close to the finish. A few things we still have to construct but minor things. I plan to do a full costume check on my Devil’s Pass character McBride very soon. I think when I meet up again with Curran Jacobs on his wardrobe extras this week we might do some pictures.
Again I invite you all to come out and join us this upcoming Friday for the Lansing, MI showing of ROM COMS MUST DIE. I am guilty of not getting out and about enough to meet some of the emerging artists. I always try to make the CCFF mixer if not on location filming. This could be the first of a film series if it is successful. So if you are looking for something to do this Friday come on out and have some fun.
I’m going to get after some of those eggs I was telling you all about. I hope you all have a great week and I look forward to discussing with you all again the updates on our projects. Until we meet again, have a great day and a wonderful week! Coffee Cheers! DJ
Let’s Talk Films, AI and Everything Else CDI
Good morning! It is a hot, humid morning here in the Michigan with little rain spurts adding to the warmth. I hope it doesn’t ruin the flea market down the road. I’ve been collecting props for the upcoming film. Outside the film world I’ve been adjusting to our soccer season being over. The growth on the property is getting wild again so I’ll have more tree trimming as a few wild branches are touching the siding. I’ve been harvesting some sage and mint and my hops just appeared overnight. From little hairs to little cones. I’ve used hops in my beer but also as a tea, tincture or tonic with apple cider vinegar. I love the chicory flowers and was pleased to read all the parts of the plant are edible. The roots roasted have been used as a coffee replacement or to extend the life of the coffee. I’ve also made a few Pioneer Pine sodas which is basically pine needles and sugar and the yeast creates a bubbling Sprite-like treat high in Vitamin C. Old timers use to drink it to fight off scurvy. One of my favorite home improvements is a new lamp that hangs over my cozy chair where much reading is done. Super stylish in a 60’s vibe and I got it at a sale for $5.00. It looks and works great. SCORE!
CDI FILM UPDATES:
DEVIL’S PASS – We have all our main crew and all but one cast member and we’re in talks over that role. I’ve been collecting props and getting ready for our art team meeting this week. Last week I had almost two full days drafting agreements for cast and crew. All departments have been working steadily along. I’m happy to say that I am minus one huge beard and I’ve had my facial hair trimmed into my character’s look. Now to learn to maintain it and soon a few dress rehearsal. This week we have the pre-mentioned art meeting. We have insurance meetings, final lodging and we’ll start looking at catering. Dane DeFord and Tony Hornus have been lining up some great production value for the film. Wardrobe has been reaching out and getting in step with our talent. It is going to be a fun film adventure. I love when we bring all these artists together for a short run and capture what we need to edit our story together. I am appreciative to each and every artist involved.
WILD FAITH CHRISTMAS – This beautiful film is going to be up for multiple awards at the RED LETTER AWARDS at the end of the month. In October a small group of us will be representing the film at the WILL ROGERS AWARDS. The marketing on this film will start in earnest as we get a touch closer to the home video release date which is 11/3/2026. I encourage everyone to watch or rewatch the original WILD FAITH. I have also been working on the WILD FAITH 3 script and can focus more attention on it come October once we have filmed DEVIL’S PASS. That said I still love writing here and there when I get tired of working numbers.
ROM COMS MUST DIE – This film has the DVD’s on pre-order for the 10/2/2026 home video release date including streaming. We are having a fun brew and view showing in Lansing, MI on Friday August 28th at the place formerly THE LOFT now THE STUDIO AT 313. $10 at the door which opens at 6:30 and the film starts at 7:30. This dark comedy is about the frustrations of being an artist. I think MANY people will relate to this film if you are an artist. The main characters might have went a little far but that is the comedy of it all. Adam Towner and I will be there and so will other cast and crew members to enjoy the film. There is a chance that Shane Hagedorn might book a few theatrical venues but much of that depends on the theaters schedule.
AI JESUS: The Secret of the Kingdom Chip – This movie has been delivered to both theatrical and home video. I will be getting some updates soon on both. This film is a lighthearted look at the possible good, bad and ugly of AI and the impact it could have. I have a story and a few thoughts on AI which I will share in the wrap up. I think this film will make you laugh and think. I’ve said before as a writer I like to tackle serious subjects even if it walks up to the line of uncomfortable and let the audience off with humor. Some amazing performances in this film for sure. More soon… There is a mild tie in to THE QUEST TRILOGY films so I invite you to watch FORTY NIGHTS, CHASING THE STAR and THE CHRIST SLAYER in that order.
DEVELOPMENT:
The lead film on the development track is RETURN TO ALGONA the follow up to SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA. I’m happy to say we took a few more steps on the funding of this film this past week. We also have a few major sponsors and product partners we are once again looking into. The first film had HERSHEY, HORMEL, SMITHFIELD FOODS, IOWA BANK just to name a few. The film takes place in 1968 and will be a blast to film preserving this important part of history.
WRAP UP:
So a great friend of mine who is an actor and hall of fame magician recently published a book that he had previously written. I’m guessing it is about getting ahead in the magic game. He created a book cover using AI to save scarce funds and keep the cost of the book down I’m guessing. But there is an entire group of people who are in denial of the AI integration. By that I mean if you use any software, apps, searching you are likely using AI. When a writing program anticipates your sentence and gives you a short cut like my WordPress is now. People will LOSE jobs in certain fields as technology advances. But I find it ironic that if a small film company whips out a flier for casting and use AI some people will boycott it. The actors that don’t boycott it LOVE it, the competition just got less. But my friend got messages to go kill himself because of using AI to make a book cover, what? We use AI to do concept art to look at an actor imaging certain hair cut or wardrobe. I know people have used it to just see what they would look like with this style or another. Yes. Some concept artists (only hired at the highest level) have lost work. Voice over, actors and the list goes on. But drones removed the risk and cost of hanging a DP outside a helicopter. The change to digital away from film put labs out of work. Film stock, records LP’s, VHS, DVD, BluRay, HD, streaming – PROS and CONS. Concept artists might learn to prompt AI increasing the turn around time for their art. Digital backs up footage immediately versus the risk of mailing footage, processing, storage. I have boxes of raw 35 mm footage taking space. You cannot stop the future. You can roll with it. I miss many of the old school ways of doing things. My first scripts were on typewriters. I bet typewriter sales are way down now. You have to take the good with the bad. Our cars. Our houses. Music I hear is like 65% AI driven now. Autotune was a CON to singers who could really sing. VIDEO PLAYBACK is taking power from referees in sports games. I could go on and on but you can choose to use it or not. If someone made a Garage Sale sign with AI and printed you boycott. The scoutmaster who makes a flier for a Pinewood Derby you tell him to kill himself? You don’t have to like it but keep yourself in check. Chances are if you are against it you are a hypocrite because you likely used AI to type your mean spirted message. I like the technology when it makes something safer.
I’m off my soapbox now. I’m going to see if the rain lets up allowing a flea market visit. I hope you all have a wonderful week and get many productive things done. I was missing a few of my friends recently passed away. I was looking for some prop badges and found a bottle of whiskey that Dr. Greg Zivic and I injured last time he was at the fort. We ended with a musical jam with him on the bongo drum and me on guitar. I miss him. I miss many of my dear family and friends now at rest. And I think it is a great honor to keep living and trying to spread happiness with our stories. So try to live with less anger and more joy. You absorb what you manifest so be kind to yourself too. Give yourself grace. A happy Sunday to you all. Coffee Cheers! DJ
Align Yourself With Joy and Hope – CDI Updates!
The hazelnut coffee just sets more mornings right. I’m looking forward to getting into talking about films but I wanted to speak into a few things. First, Disneyland – I made a mention after my blog that I felt was worth sharing here. The world and especially here in America feel so divided by interests. Be that religion, politics, sports teams – you name it. For the day at Disney I saw a mass of people unified by joy of Disney. All types of people old and young and all walks of life immersed in Disney. Tough looking individuals wearing mouse ears and eating mouse shaped pretzels, smiling like little kids. It was the most unity I’ve felt in a very long time. Walt Disney was a great man and his dream is still working its magic. It was an unexpected surprise and one I deeply appreciated.
This next observation is not aimed at any one person but at many. On a daily basis I see folks using social media mainly FB but I am sure it is elsewhere, as a venting board. Negative comments mad or sad or victim rants usually with no frame of reference. First on a personal level what you manifest affects you. If you feed just on negativity your outlook will be one of negativity. You are drinking that poison daily. To rant about something or someone without any reference screams out of balance. If someone deserves a tongue lashing by all means call them, text them, email them, write them a letter (Look it up children) but, don’t just rant publicly. This must tie into non-confrontational folks. Like in management proper addressing of issues is behind closed doors. Because you want to improve this person. But trying to give someone a public shaming makes one look weak. And in a work situation you want a balanced person who if unhappy will talk to management not go off and just bite the hand that feeds them. All those friends that see a public rant aren’t going to pay your bills when you lose a job. Personally you are defining you, your brand, your process of conflict resolution. People paint their own perception and bemoan why they can’t get ahead. I can think of at least a dozen people, good people, who self sabotage themselves. People post things hoping to be seen and they are often seen/heard but the message they send are usually not what they want to send out. I’m not saying don’t be human. But it is like not sending that email to your boss when mad. Sleep on it. Think on it. Send something when you feel balanced.
It hurts my heart when I see people caught in a negativity trap of their own making. When you post something positive you are not ignoring the ugly. You are giving hope. The negative has its followers and they will keep it flowing but consuming it non stop rots you. I could watch enough animal abuse videos before my first cup of coffee to ruin my day. But some share the positive stories that give us hope. And those people likely feel better as they go about their day. So try it. Also if you represent a brand, sometimes you as an artists, keep it professional. Many that are sponsored by major labels want to be associated with positive people. I’m proud of activists who devote their lives to their causes because they are often swimming in daily negativity. But, if you are selling yourself individually or as someone who manages people or projects you need balance. I’m getting off my soap box now but please understand that we each say something with what we show, say, do. That burden can be heavier when you’re a role model. Parent, coach, boss, John Cena – I think you get the picture. Advertising that you can’t handle stress is not going to help anyone. Go walk in the woods. Find your peace. Smile. Spread love. Be like Walt. (Disney)
FILM UPDATES:
- WILD FAITH CHRISTMAS – I’m excited for all the good folks who loved the original WILD FAITH to get their new adventure. 11/3/2026 is the DVD and streaming release date. We have Red Letter Awards in August and Will Rogers Awards recognition in September.
- AI JESUS – We have just about finished our delivery of distribution assets. I just need to make sure the stills and screen captures are to both theatrical and home video. Dreamscape Productions will be the point on the theatrical and they are prepping for all that. We might enter a few festivals and the BTS video should be releasing soon.
- ROM COMS MUST DIE – While we wait for the Summer studio films to blow over we are doing a brew and view in Lansing, MI on August 28th which is a Friday. Adam Towner and I will be testing the projection system at this studio and we’ll start promoting very soon. 10/2/2026 is the home video release date. This dark comedy is really going to stand out from the comedy horror pack due to being highly original. I hope many of you can join us on Friday the 28th of August.
- DEVIL’S PASS – The ship is fueling up and we are working the last few cast and crew spots. Logistics are being worked out and in about 7 weeks we will roll cameras. This is going to be a rip-roaring fun story to tell. It is always hard to get the foundation put in but we are done with that. Now it is addressing some of the support aspects of the film. On a personal note, last week I went to the local flea market and found two wardrobe pieces for my character in the film. A shirt and a hat like what I had identified to purchase but I only paid $9 for both versus $120 in my Amazon cart. I love to buy and keep my own wardrobe incase of sequels or just to have.
DEVELOPMENT:
RETURN TO ALGONA is likely the most developed of the new projects with over 1/2 the funding committed. I’m still in talks with brands/sponsors and we have not even opened the opportunity to investors yet. Being that this is a follow up film I will give the SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA backers a first opportunity. This is all preserving true history that is important to many good people. My goal is to have all the funding commits by the years end and I believe we will.
I am going to finish both MBF2 and WF3 by year’s end. That is another goal of mine. I know we have some projects in development with Curran Jacobs and Katharsys Media as well. I almost have the three finished films off my plate save promotion and that will open up a lot of time. I know I have a few other projects being discussed to produce with the CDI tribe and a few books that might tap into my screenwriting.
WRAP UP: I’m looking forward to a great week. We will be testing the ROM COMS MUST DIE this week and also I have a make up soccer match since wildfire smoke cancelled all the games in our league. I met this weekend with John Mashni who handles legal and assists me with all CDI’s dispersals. We have some great momentum and I’m thankful to be where we are. The end of this year will have many wonderful moments with releases, awards events and new filming. I want to take this moment again to thank all our cast, crew, vendors, investors, sponsors and of course our audiences.
I want to thank those artists that have reached out with scripts but we are not in need of any at this time. We’ve got enough scripts for a decade plus and if you don’t have funding it will not be considered to be in the production flow. It is a hard game as a screenwriter I know this first hand. But I try to answer all the submissions and give some positive motivation to keep submitting to people.
I’m going to just off here and perhaps eat a few eggs. I might try to do some more work around the property although I think heat and rain are making a return. Don’t ever give up on your dreams but always evaluate and adjust your plans. I do believe in hard work pays off. Smart work pays off faster. I think many fail because they focus on the fun parts but neglect the hard business part of the work. SHOW BUSINESS. Both parts are important but the latter will take you from hobbyist to professional. I just told a friend who has a relative working on his first screenplay to take business classes. You and your passion for writing will hone the writing part but what do you do once you have your masterpiece? I’ve optioned/sold only a handful of scripts in 40 years. It is not easy but it is not impossible. Again, dream on my friends! Dream on! Coffee cheers. DJ
New Releases. New Castings Coming. New Development.
What a beautiful day in Lansing, MI today! It was a tad chilly but the sun was out and the apple blossoms are in bloom. Birds and squirrels are busy at work and our chickens were happy to be out and about. The hens have been kicking 4-5 eggs and day which has been wonderful. Yesterday we did a day trip to Holland, MI and saw the 1700’s windmill and the fields of tulips. I also had a nice Dutch sampler at a Dutch eatery. I have been to Amsterdam so I’ve had some of the local dishes but this was nice. I love experiencing new food, music and traditions. I’m thrilled that this week I will be putting up a new acting sizzle reel. I’ve not done a new one since 2020 because I’ve been busy acting so it wasn’t a priority. I’m very excited that soon I’ll be sharing films and my created characters with a wide audience as some of our films release. Let’s look at some of the updates and look ahead somewhat.
UPDATES:
- WILD FAITH CHRISTMAS the home video poster above which will release on 11/3/2026 but our partners at Dreamscape Productions will look to get it into a few more theaters before the streaming release. Next week we’ll see how the film does at the ICFF where it has a handful of nominations including Best Picture. The Red Letter Awards in August and I believe we are under consideration at a few additional festivals and events. We have the 8 show season 1 of WILD FAITH: Hastings on deck and I’m working on another stand alone film working title WF3 right now.
- I’ve completed my first draft on RETURN TO ALGONA which is the next chapter following SILENT NIGHT IN ALGONA. I’ve got some great feedback from my main producers and our director Anthony Hornus. It will be going to the foundation and other associated entities to review soon. We have 1/2 the funding in place and will likely look to film in 2027 either early or late in 2027 as it requires a winter backdrop. We will likely start doing some advance casting out of Iowa working with friends there so get your reels and materials updated. Our production designer is in Algona today doing some advanced scouting.
- ROM COMS MUST DIE – This comedy horror film is having the first showing at the Sun Theater in Williamston, MI on May 18th. The box office opens at 6:30 with the film showing at 7:00. Tickets are $10 cash and have to be purchased at the box office. This will be a great first showing as we’re setting up for many other showings in other theater chains and classic theaters like this one. This was such a fun film to shoot and I think audiences will enjoy it. It is about following your dreams at any cost. I was inspired in writing the screenplay by films like WAITING FOR GUFFMAN, BEST IN SHOW, THIS IS SPINAL TAP and A MIGHTY WIND.
- AI JESUS: The Secret of the Kingdom Chip – We are close to having all the music and sound design put into the film. From there we will do a watch and we’re also assembling the end credit crawl which always takes a little time. I LOVE how this film presents and I think audiences of all types will enjoy it. It has a strong comedic tone but also adds real depth in various places. Monday I’ll be looking at a draft of the BTS video by Adam Towner. We will start to ramp up more of the PR once we get the film finished.
DEVELOPMENT: I’ve been loving the development work on several fronts. We almost have the business foundation in place on a film that would shoot in Michigan this Fall. I don’t want to speak on it until we are further down the road but the last two weeks have had hours of business development spent. I’ve said it before but for me/CDI to consider outside projects the funds have to be there. Otherwise we have a slate of films that the funds could be placed upon. Funding is only part of the equation but having the script in the right place and having the right team is what makes me say yes. Location also plays into it and how easy can I work with the other party. Because often the other party comes to CDI wanting to up their production game but in production value and the production journey. The last few CDI films have been extremely smooth sailing. That is due to having the right personalities and attitudes aligned. Negativity is a cancer in the film world and if you don’t really like the long, hard hours on set don’t do it. God, knows there are easier jobs that pay better but you pay the cost in other ways if you are not happy with what you do.
We have several projects in development all with various great things happening. This one we’re looking at for the Fall is a fun one for sure. We’ve got a great team lining up and a great battle plan. I like the acting role that I would play. It is a unique character that I feel strong about. I know I can bring something really cool to audiences and that process of character building is already happening in my head. So this week we’ll continue our development talks and I hope to announce something once we have dried ink as I like to say.
WRAP UP:
Today I’m going to do some property clean up and maybe get the grill around for Summer use. I’m looking forward to a great week ahead and I’m thankful for all the abundance of good things happening. I’m excited to see what some of the other parties involved think of the RETURN TO ALGONA script. It is be a great story to tell. I’m going to go make a few eggs and get on with my day. But I want to thank all of you for once again stopping by to have a read. If you can come out on May 18th to see ROM COMS MUST DIE I will be there as will some of the cast and crew. Until next week keep plugging away at your dreams and be good to one another. Everyone has their challenges and such they are dealing with. Coffee cheers, time to refill that as well.
DJ
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
