I am not just referring to the contestants on stage at last night's Model Search 2006 in Gibraltar. It was roasting. Incredibly humid.
Like I mentioned previously, I was shooting the competition. Unfortunately our 3rd camera was suffering from a moisture condition, so we had to make do with 2. Should be fine. I'm starting editing tomorrow on it.
One camera was HDV the other SD. This will be my first attempt at combining footage. I am quite curious to see the outcome.
Frame grabs coming soon!
Saturday 22 July 2006
Wednesday 19 July 2006
GibFocus feature
GibFocus is this terribly cool website that has all the latest and greatest news about Gib. It is updated seemingly every 5 minutes.
Starting today I am the featured interview! How cool is that?!?
You can take a look at the site here.
This has been taken down, but you can still listen to it. Click the banner!
Starting today I am the featured interview! How cool is that?!?
You can take a look at the site here.
This has been taken down, but you can still listen to it. Click the banner!
Uh oh!
Members of a religious sect in central Kenya are bracing themselves for a nuclear war predicted to take place no later than 12 September 2006.
Buggers. I have already booked flights to London on September 26th! Can I get a refund in case this happens?
Buggers. I have already booked flights to London on September 26th! Can I get a refund in case this happens?
Saturday 15 July 2006
Writing success...kind of
Google is a wonderful thing. I discovered that I got to the semi-final rounds in the Writers on the Storm screenwriting competition for my script 'Fire and Rain'.
Ok, I didn't make it into the finals - but then neither did England in the World Cup, so there you go.
Ok, I didn't make it into the finals - but then neither did England in the World Cup, so there you go.
Friday 14 July 2006
Model Search 2006
How exciting! Looks like I am the lucky guy who gets to coordinate the shooting/videoing/filming of Gibraltar's Model Search 2006 competition. It (hopefully) will be a 3 camera affair, which will be an editing headache, but, I am always up for a challenge.
The worst thing about it is that I will be too busy looking through the viewfinder to watch the show.
It's happening at Alameda Open Air Theatre on Friday 21st July at 9.30pm.
I know you all really want to see pics of the contestents, but, go see the show you cheap buggers! Should be a hoot.
The worst thing about it is that I will be too busy looking through the viewfinder to watch the show.
It's happening at Alameda Open Air Theatre on Friday 21st July at 9.30pm.
I know you all really want to see pics of the contestents, but, go see the show you cheap buggers! Should be a hoot.
Welcome home
Today I picked up my official Resedencia card for Spain. It has been a long haul to get this thing - even though all it really means is that I have proof I live here!
But still, I have to say that I am very happy about it. I love living down here (another long haul to get to there, I can tell you) and to now be fully 'official' makes me proud.
In my dreams - when I let myself have them - I think about how I want to get the Campo de Gibraltar region on film. I like shooting down here - the people are great - and I think the place has a lot to offer as far as stories and locations.
Anyway, I am beaming and had to tell someone.
But still, I have to say that I am very happy about it. I love living down here (another long haul to get to there, I can tell you) and to now be fully 'official' makes me proud.
In my dreams - when I let myself have them - I think about how I want to get the Campo de Gibraltar region on film. I like shooting down here - the people are great - and I think the place has a lot to offer as far as stories and locations.
Anyway, I am beaming and had to tell someone.
Saturday 8 July 2006
Wednesday 5 July 2006
Congratulations!
The actor in WSA and The Inquisition, Emilio Vera, has been accepted into the theatre school in Corboda! Well done!
Wednesday 28 June 2006
Chop chop
I can imagine that editing film (as opposed to video) is very satifying because you get to cut and slice. When you think about it, it is a very violent kind of thing. Cutting out bits. Slicing film. Chopping sound.
But in video we do nice little drops and slides, etc etc. I long for some violence, because I am having a hard time banging this film into shape.
I saw this interview with David Lynch where he talks about filming being the process of building a glass bridge across a ravine. At any moment it could shatter into a million pieces and you could plunge to a horrible death on the rocks below.
I know how he feels.
This was a film I had high hopes for and consequently it is a complicated edit. There are lot of sound effects to go in, music to add, dialogue to re-record (for the record, shooting in a cave is a bad idea) and of course colour correction and the like.
Can someone please buy me a faster computer? And a time machine?
Soon I'll set up a page with some stills and so forth on it. I know you all can't wait.
But in video we do nice little drops and slides, etc etc. I long for some violence, because I am having a hard time banging this film into shape.
I saw this interview with David Lynch where he talks about filming being the process of building a glass bridge across a ravine. At any moment it could shatter into a million pieces and you could plunge to a horrible death on the rocks below.
I know how he feels.
This was a film I had high hopes for and consequently it is a complicated edit. There are lot of sound effects to go in, music to add, dialogue to re-record (for the record, shooting in a cave is a bad idea) and of course colour correction and the like.
Can someone please buy me a faster computer? And a time machine?
Soon I'll set up a page with some stills and so forth on it. I know you all can't wait.
Wednesday 21 June 2006
Monday 19 June 2006
Big night out
Well, most of the cast and crew of the Inquisition got together on Saturday night for a meal and some drinks. I had just finished the editing of the thing, so it seemed like a good time to do it.
I figured out that I probably spent 1 day editing for every 5 minutes of finished product. Thank god the thing is only 25 minutes long!
Martin had this sweet, if silly, idea of handing out little plaques to everyone. (See what he does for his own films!) I scraped past the stiff competition to get the 'best director' award. One of my reasons I don't like things like this is that it I don't really believe in rewarding effort. I prefer to reward results. And since no one had seen the film I don't see how any comments can be made. But anyway.
Here's Marcie and I at the restaurant:
[img=images/Phil_Marcie_sm.JPG popup=false]
We had the dinner at the restaurant that we shot some WSA scenes in. Miguel (the owner), his wife and daughter were wonderful as ever. Of course it is a Spanish restaurant, so the vegetarian options were nil (I thought that maybe the effort could have been made to at least get the salad without tuna, but oh well). But everyone else seemed to enjoy the food while I ate tortilla #872 of the year.
I figured out that I probably spent 1 day editing for every 5 minutes of finished product. Thank god the thing is only 25 minutes long!
Martin had this sweet, if silly, idea of handing out little plaques to everyone. (See what he does for his own films!) I scraped past the stiff competition to get the 'best director' award. One of my reasons I don't like things like this is that it I don't really believe in rewarding effort. I prefer to reward results. And since no one had seen the film I don't see how any comments can be made. But anyway.
Here's Marcie and I at the restaurant:
[img=images/Phil_Marcie_sm.JPG popup=false]
We had the dinner at the restaurant that we shot some WSA scenes in. Miguel (the owner), his wife and daughter were wonderful as ever. Of course it is a Spanish restaurant, so the vegetarian options were nil (I thought that maybe the effort could have been made to at least get the salad without tuna, but oh well). But everyone else seemed to enjoy the food while I ate tortilla #872 of the year.
Thursday 15 June 2006
Yet more proof
As to why America is the greatest nation on earth:
Storm Payouts
I really try NOT to do any American-bashing on here...but come on! I am not saying that these people didn't need the money...a lot of them might. But then they spent it on crazy shit! There are people really suffering in America. Its bad enough the government does nothing about it, but to have their fellow citizens take the money for no good reason... well, it beggers belief.
Storm Payouts
I really try NOT to do any American-bashing on here...but come on! I am not saying that these people didn't need the money...a lot of them might. But then they spent it on crazy shit! There are people really suffering in America. Its bad enough the government does nothing about it, but to have their fellow citizens take the money for no good reason... well, it beggers belief.
Tuesday 13 June 2006
One of those days
It didn't start well. One dog (Ari) was up all night scratching and licking. He is well overdue for a haircut, plus his ear is all bad again. So no one got much sleep. Then he barfs everywhere.
The other terrier, Rocky, also barfs.
Peaches leishmaniosis is acting up causing her kidneys to not be so good - so she pees on the floor.
On my way into Gibraltar I have my first every accident on my scooter. I go sliding down Avenida Maria Guerrero(see map here! ). I thought I was fine (I got up and drove away) but now my wrist is killing me. Luckily, I was, as always, wearing long trousers a jacket and riding gloves. But still...ouch! Must have sprained or torn something.
Of course there were good things too!
I found out the one of my scripts has made it to the semi-finals of a competition. That is great news.
So there you have it!
The other terrier, Rocky, also barfs.
Peaches leishmaniosis is acting up causing her kidneys to not be so good - so she pees on the floor.
On my way into Gibraltar I have my first every accident on my scooter. I go sliding down Avenida Maria Guerrero(see map here! ). I thought I was fine (I got up and drove away) but now my wrist is killing me. Luckily, I was, as always, wearing long trousers a jacket and riding gloves. But still...ouch! Must have sprained or torn something.
Of course there were good things too!
I found out the one of my scripts has made it to the semi-finals of a competition. That is great news.
So there you have it!
Monday 12 June 2006
One crazy week
Well, it was a good idea. Make (another) film in a week, while editing the last one (The Inquisition).
So I gathered up some actors: Sabrina Perez Lungen, Pepe Martinez, Padma, John Cortes - and see what happens.
It worked, though I haven't seen the footage. We just wanted to get the film done.
My biggest flaw is my lack of organisational skills. I am not too bad when it comes to myself, but when dealing with other people I suck.
Was it a perfect shoot? No. Of course there were problems. And the guys were a bit under-rehearsed, but I think that all in all the footage is there.
But with this film it was about more than footage. it is about trying to create an atmosphere onscreen. That is down to the editing process, which has yet to start.
With each film we set ourselves challenges. It was nice to have Simon around on this one. He was sorely missed on the Inquisition - especially when I got home and realised that I had fucked up the white-balance or the iris settings.
Here's me, Sabrina and Padma contemplating how to cope with a cow stampede through the set.
So I gathered up some actors: Sabrina Perez Lungen, Pepe Martinez, Padma, John Cortes - and see what happens.
It worked, though I haven't seen the footage. We just wanted to get the film done.
My biggest flaw is my lack of organisational skills. I am not too bad when it comes to myself, but when dealing with other people I suck.
Was it a perfect shoot? No. Of course there were problems. And the guys were a bit under-rehearsed, but I think that all in all the footage is there.
But with this film it was about more than footage. it is about trying to create an atmosphere onscreen. That is down to the editing process, which has yet to start.
With each film we set ourselves challenges. It was nice to have Simon around on this one. He was sorely missed on the Inquisition - especially when I got home and realised that I had fucked up the white-balance or the iris settings.
Here's me, Sabrina and Padma contemplating how to cope with a cow stampede through the set.
Sunday 28 May 2006
Give me a 'P'!
A few years ago a friend recommended the book 'The Artists' Way' by Julia Cameron. This friend knew I was struggling with a deep loss of creativity...I was finally feeling the effects of stopping writing, music and filmmaking to follow the almighty dollar (well, Euro actually).
I read the book, and while a lot of it was a bit too 'naval gazing' for me it did start me out on something that I really think has changed my life.
And it relates to the first step of The PRICK Principle - Profundity.
The exercise sounds simple - write 3 pages of a journal a day. This is a completely private journal, not like the public blogs on the net. A place where you just write what you are thinking. It is bloody difficult. 3 pages is a lot. And you do it every day, whether you want to or not, whether you have anything to say or not.
And you know why this is about profundity? After doing these journal entries for a few days or weeks you start to really examine your thoughts and you life. You really get down to the things you feel and see - about your relationships, your art, your work, your friends...you name it. It is very calming, and yet intense.
I've been doing these journals for quite a time - I have a stack in the basement - and I feel that more than anything, this exercise started me on a path of recovery. I've recovered a sense of passion about my creativity. I've finished several scripts, written a filmscore, several articles and actually made 5 short films in the last year.
So - Profundity - seeing below the surface, deeply into things - starts with your life. And a journal, a real, private journal where you are honest with yourself, can take you there. A lot of people can't be honest with themselves, because of the lies they tell and live.
I think you can.
btw - you can pick up the artist's way here: The Artist's Way
I read the book, and while a lot of it was a bit too 'naval gazing' for me it did start me out on something that I really think has changed my life.
And it relates to the first step of The PRICK Principle - Profundity.
The exercise sounds simple - write 3 pages of a journal a day. This is a completely private journal, not like the public blogs on the net. A place where you just write what you are thinking. It is bloody difficult. 3 pages is a lot. And you do it every day, whether you want to or not, whether you have anything to say or not.
And you know why this is about profundity? After doing these journal entries for a few days or weeks you start to really examine your thoughts and you life. You really get down to the things you feel and see - about your relationships, your art, your work, your friends...you name it. It is very calming, and yet intense.
I've been doing these journals for quite a time - I have a stack in the basement - and I feel that more than anything, this exercise started me on a path of recovery. I've recovered a sense of passion about my creativity. I've finished several scripts, written a filmscore, several articles and actually made 5 short films in the last year.
So - Profundity - seeing below the surface, deeply into things - starts with your life. And a journal, a real, private journal where you are honest with yourself, can take you there. A lot of people can't be honest with themselves, because of the lies they tell and live.
I think you can.
btw - you can pick up the artist's way here: The Artist's Way
Wednesday 24 May 2006
Monday 22 May 2006
In the can!
Pepe Martinez, Martin Nuza, Sabrina Perez Lungen, Passerby, Rebecca Figueras, Adnan Laoudy
It was 4 long days, but we have finished off the prinicple photography for the Inquisition.
(btw - I wrote a blog entry 2 days ago and it seems to have disappeared!).
I think we got some good footage but it is now down to my skills as an editor to pull this thing together.
A word about the cast.
Our two main actors are actually actors! That is a big change.
Sabrina Perez Lungen played Beth. Maybe it is a case of the director fawning over the lead actress but, she was amazing. She brought something to every scene - she thought about her character and how she would be. Zooming in to get the focus on her I couldn't help but be taken by her face - she has a great power and it really comes across.
Pepe Martinez played the priest and also was a real pleasure to work with. Pepe gives great face (as we say) - having him staring into the camera was enough for most takes! I think Pepe has a great spark on camera - with training I think he could be a good film actor.
The rest of the cast were (as they would be the first to say) amateurs, but they did a great job none the less.
Adnan Laoudy was 'The Boy'. Rebecca Figueras was 'Amaranta' - our other witch. And Nicola Howes played 'Amanda' - the little sister. Nicola too approached her character with insight and intelligence.
Martin Nuza - who wrote this thing - also produced. He did a good job of finding us locations and extras.
And now we are done. I have a mountain (ok, 3) of tapes to go through and try and hone out a film.
Wish me luck!
It was 4 long days, but we have finished off the prinicple photography for the Inquisition.
(btw - I wrote a blog entry 2 days ago and it seems to have disappeared!).
I think we got some good footage but it is now down to my skills as an editor to pull this thing together.
A word about the cast.
Our two main actors are actually actors! That is a big change.
Sabrina Perez Lungen played Beth. Maybe it is a case of the director fawning over the lead actress but, she was amazing. She brought something to every scene - she thought about her character and how she would be. Zooming in to get the focus on her I couldn't help but be taken by her face - she has a great power and it really comes across.
Pepe Martinez played the priest and also was a real pleasure to work with. Pepe gives great face (as we say) - having him staring into the camera was enough for most takes! I think Pepe has a great spark on camera - with training I think he could be a good film actor.
The rest of the cast were (as they would be the first to say) amateurs, but they did a great job none the less.
Adnan Laoudy was 'The Boy'. Rebecca Figueras was 'Amaranta' - our other witch. And Nicola Howes played 'Amanda' - the little sister. Nicola too approached her character with insight and intelligence.
Martin Nuza - who wrote this thing - also produced. He did a good job of finding us locations and extras.
And now we are done. I have a mountain (ok, 3) of tapes to go through and try and hone out a film.
Wish me luck!
Wednesday 17 May 2006
No one expects...
Oh it's been a crazy time!
From tomorrow I am directing a short written by a Gibraltarian screenwriter, Martin Nuza. The script is about the Spanish Inquisition and features a host of local talent.
The film is called 'Inquisition' (ooo where do we come up with them!). A directory will be set up soon enough with all the usual goodies - photos, bios, etc etc.
From tomorrow I am directing a short written by a Gibraltarian screenwriter, Martin Nuza. The script is about the Spanish Inquisition and features a host of local talent.
The film is called 'Inquisition' (ooo where do we come up with them!). A directory will be set up soon enough with all the usual goodies - photos, bios, etc etc.
Saturday 6 May 2006
Reiki moments
My wife is heavily into Reiki. She is a Reiki master and practitioner, with a pretty good practice down here in Southern Spain.
So, when we were in Japan it seemed natural, and important, to visit a couple of Reiki sites. One day in Tokyo we went out to the Buddhist cemetery where the man who started Reiki, Usui, is buried. It was a very powerful experience, even for me as someone who knows very little about Reiki. His monument is an impressive obelisk, reminiscent of 2001, A Space Odyssey!
A collection of photos can be found here.
A few days later we popped down to Kyoto (thank you Shinkansen!) and climbed Mount Kurama. Kurama is where Usui had his enlightenment. The mountain, not found in any tour books, is pretty incredible. It is still a Buddhist center, and the entire thing is covered with Temples and Shrines.
Photos from that day are here.
Coincidentally, there was a massive exhibit going on in Tokyo at the National Musuem on relics of Tendai Buddhism, which is the branch that Usui followed. Seeing 800 year old items that belonged to the men who first spread Tendai Buddhism throughout Japan (centered on Mount Hiei) was a once in a lifetime experience and I think it was fated that we were able to see it. What made the day even more special was the (unexpected) generosity of complete strangers – two separate Japanese ladies gave both Marcie and myself tickets to get in to the special exhibit. Completely out of the blue. Quite wonderful.
So, when we were in Japan it seemed natural, and important, to visit a couple of Reiki sites. One day in Tokyo we went out to the Buddhist cemetery where the man who started Reiki, Usui, is buried. It was a very powerful experience, even for me as someone who knows very little about Reiki. His monument is an impressive obelisk, reminiscent of 2001, A Space Odyssey!
A collection of photos can be found here.
A few days later we popped down to Kyoto (thank you Shinkansen!) and climbed Mount Kurama. Kurama is where Usui had his enlightenment. The mountain, not found in any tour books, is pretty incredible. It is still a Buddhist center, and the entire thing is covered with Temples and Shrines.
Photos from that day are here.
Coincidentally, there was a massive exhibit going on in Tokyo at the National Musuem on relics of Tendai Buddhism, which is the branch that Usui followed. Seeing 800 year old items that belonged to the men who first spread Tendai Buddhism throughout Japan (centered on Mount Hiei) was a once in a lifetime experience and I think it was fated that we were able to see it. What made the day even more special was the (unexpected) generosity of complete strangers – two separate Japanese ladies gave both Marcie and myself tickets to get in to the special exhibit. Completely out of the blue. Quite wonderful.
Wednesday 3 May 2006
Tokyo - pt 1
Now that we are back from Japan I can sit down and write some impressions.
First, on one of our first days there we went out to Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park. The Shrine (see the day out in pics here ) is in a beautiful green area. I was warned before going to Tokyo that it was a concrete jungle. I found the opposite - that there were surprisingly large green spaces. Maybe coming from Spain I am used to brown dirt. I don't know. But the shrine is impressive and it was a great introduction to the historical cultural aspects of the city.
We stumbled across an Ayumi Hamasaki concert. I have been a fan of hers for years, but to be honest we couldn't figure out how to buy tickets! Oh well. I have the live concert DVDs.
Around the corner is Yoyogi Park. The park is also huge, but for me the big attraction was the live bands playing.
We caught a set by The Pink Panda. They were snappy uptempo JPop. Which I love. The singer(MaYou) is also terribly cute. Also saw a set by a band who's name is perhaps one of the oddest ever - A.N others after the 20th (click on the 'PC' link). I bought 3 of their singles. I found the music to be almost prog-rock. Very cool.
Across the street we stumbled into Tokyo's Earth Day celebrations. A huge area was covered in stalls selling food, earth friendly products and handing out information. There was also a stage where we caught a few live acts. Much to my disappoint there was very little food that was vegetarian. Since I consider vegetarian/veganism a good thing for the planet it seemed an odd ommision. There was a little woman handing out stuff on being a vegetarian, but that was it. We bumped into a guy (Hi Sanjay!) who was a vegan and kindly set me an email listing the good restaurants in Tokyo.
Also missing from the Earth Day booths was anything about Japan's practice of whaling. Japan consistently uses deceitful and underhanded techniques to ensure its whaling continues. It is one of the few things I hate about Japan.
But I digress.
From there it was down to Chibuya. And then back to the hotel, knackered.
First, on one of our first days there we went out to Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park. The Shrine (see the day out in pics here ) is in a beautiful green area. I was warned before going to Tokyo that it was a concrete jungle. I found the opposite - that there were surprisingly large green spaces. Maybe coming from Spain I am used to brown dirt. I don't know. But the shrine is impressive and it was a great introduction to the historical cultural aspects of the city.
We stumbled across an Ayumi Hamasaki concert. I have been a fan of hers for years, but to be honest we couldn't figure out how to buy tickets! Oh well. I have the live concert DVDs.
Around the corner is Yoyogi Park. The park is also huge, but for me the big attraction was the live bands playing.
We caught a set by The Pink Panda. They were snappy uptempo JPop. Which I love. The singer(MaYou) is also terribly cute. Also saw a set by a band who's name is perhaps one of the oddest ever - A.N others after the 20th (click on the 'PC' link). I bought 3 of their singles. I found the music to be almost prog-rock. Very cool.
Across the street we stumbled into Tokyo's Earth Day celebrations. A huge area was covered in stalls selling food, earth friendly products and handing out information. There was also a stage where we caught a few live acts. Much to my disappoint there was very little food that was vegetarian. Since I consider vegetarian/veganism a good thing for the planet it seemed an odd ommision. There was a little woman handing out stuff on being a vegetarian, but that was it. We bumped into a guy (Hi Sanjay!) who was a vegan and kindly set me an email listing the good restaurants in Tokyo.
Also missing from the Earth Day booths was anything about Japan's practice of whaling. Japan consistently uses deceitful and underhanded techniques to ensure its whaling continues. It is one of the few things I hate about Japan.
But I digress.
From there it was down to Chibuya. And then back to the hotel, knackered.
Thursday 27 April 2006
Tokyo Life
This place is pretty amazing. Everything is clean and it works - quite a far cry from London or Spain.
Full reports will follow - a bit too flustered right now - but have to say there are some great restaurants here. Big hello to the guys over at Antwerp Central, Junya and Atsushi. They showed us extreme hospitality, which we ended up paying for the next morning. Cold sake rules!
We've hit all the neighbourhoods this week - Ginza and Roppongi getting special attention. This is a different world. I think Japan is still the master at isolation and adaptation. It has trappings of Europe and the west but there is no forgetting that you are in Tokyo. For example, at Antwerp Central, it was packed with a 150 or so people. We were (literally!) the only non-japanese. I can't think of any central city restaurants that you would be the only non-native in. Certainly not in London, Toronto or especially Spain (where often you would be hard pressed to find one native amongst the foreign diners).
I need to collect my thoughts and write some concise things, but I can't think right now. I've never gotten comfortable with Internet cafe's.
Sunday we fly home, but, I am a little concerned as for some reason our status on the BA website seems a bit wierd.
Full reports will follow - a bit too flustered right now - but have to say there are some great restaurants here. Big hello to the guys over at Antwerp Central, Junya and Atsushi. They showed us extreme hospitality, which we ended up paying for the next morning. Cold sake rules!
We've hit all the neighbourhoods this week - Ginza and Roppongi getting special attention. This is a different world. I think Japan is still the master at isolation and adaptation. It has trappings of Europe and the west but there is no forgetting that you are in Tokyo. For example, at Antwerp Central, it was packed with a 150 or so people. We were (literally!) the only non-japanese. I can't think of any central city restaurants that you would be the only non-native in. Certainly not in London, Toronto or especially Spain (where often you would be hard pressed to find one native amongst the foreign diners).
I need to collect my thoughts and write some concise things, but I can't think right now. I've never gotten comfortable with Internet cafe's.
Sunday we fly home, but, I am a little concerned as for some reason our status on the BA website seems a bit wierd.
Monday 24 April 2006
Travel - GBAirways style
The idea seemed simple - on my birthday fly to Tokyo.
GBAirways had other ideas! GBA, who run BA's flights in southern spain and Gibraltar, saw fit to put us on a plane first piloted by the Wright Brothers. Of course it arrived in Malaga fine. But couldn't take off.
First problem was the hydraulics, which required a new pump. That was 6 hours. Finally, the plane was ready to go! Yippee! Missed the flight to Tokyo of course, but got on one the next day.
Taxi out to the runway and doh! Now one of the engines is acting up. So back to the ramp for some more dicking around. Finally at 11 (that is about 12 hours after scheduled departure) it was called a night and we were shipped to the local hotel.
So, for my birthday dinner I was enjoying hotel food at midnight. Well, not enjoying as we were not given any choice, just a plate of chips and pork in sauce. Now, being a vegetarian I didn't find this particularly appealing, so dinner was chips (french fries for you Canadians, Freedom Fries for you Yanks).
Pork has to be the stupidest choice for a 'forced' meal as not just us vegetarians, but Muslims and Jews as well don't take kindly to it. Oh, and it was cold.
So, day 2 of the journey starts and we are still around 100km from home. Instead of getting us on the now-fixed plane nice and early, GB Airways decides to give us a noon slot, which means we have no margin for error to get onto our Tokyo flight.
We taxi out to the runway and doh! Same problem! Somehow it had not fixed itself over night. What a bummer.
I say 'fixed itself' because the pilot made no mention of them working on it over night.
So, another few hours while GB Airways decides what to do and all flights are now booked for the day from Malaga so they are really in a pickle.
At 11pm, now 36 hours late (on a 2 1/2 hour flight) a plane from Excel Airlines (who??) takes us to Gatwick.
Of course, we were supposed to be going to Heathrow, where the flight to Tokyo leaves from. Can we get to Heathrow at 1:30am when we land? No. We have to stay the night in Gatwick, then take the bloody bus from Gatwick to Heathrow. That means we can sleep for 5 hours only, because we have to schedule 90 minutes to get to Heathrow and of course be there nice and early to check in as we now are not automatically checked in because of the fact we are in a different airport and our bags are with us.
But I am writing this in Tokyo, so we got here eventually. 48 hours late. Thanks BA!
Oh, when we got to Heathrow I thought that perhaps BA owed me something and maybe, seeing as I missed my birthday, they would upgrade us to something a little nicer. Wrong. To quote BA ground staff - there was 'no reason' to perform the upgrade. And I was reminded that GB Airways is NOT BA (despite flying under their logo). I pointed out that I had booked tickets on ba.com, not GBAirways.com, but they weren't having it.
In short - GBAirways has a lot to answer for.
GBAirways had other ideas! GBA, who run BA's flights in southern spain and Gibraltar, saw fit to put us on a plane first piloted by the Wright Brothers. Of course it arrived in Malaga fine. But couldn't take off.
First problem was the hydraulics, which required a new pump. That was 6 hours. Finally, the plane was ready to go! Yippee! Missed the flight to Tokyo of course, but got on one the next day.
Taxi out to the runway and doh! Now one of the engines is acting up. So back to the ramp for some more dicking around. Finally at 11 (that is about 12 hours after scheduled departure) it was called a night and we were shipped to the local hotel.
So, for my birthday dinner I was enjoying hotel food at midnight. Well, not enjoying as we were not given any choice, just a plate of chips and pork in sauce. Now, being a vegetarian I didn't find this particularly appealing, so dinner was chips (french fries for you Canadians, Freedom Fries for you Yanks).
Pork has to be the stupidest choice for a 'forced' meal as not just us vegetarians, but Muslims and Jews as well don't take kindly to it. Oh, and it was cold.
So, day 2 of the journey starts and we are still around 100km from home. Instead of getting us on the now-fixed plane nice and early, GB Airways decides to give us a noon slot, which means we have no margin for error to get onto our Tokyo flight.
We taxi out to the runway and doh! Same problem! Somehow it had not fixed itself over night. What a bummer.
I say 'fixed itself' because the pilot made no mention of them working on it over night.
So, another few hours while GB Airways decides what to do and all flights are now booked for the day from Malaga so they are really in a pickle.
At 11pm, now 36 hours late (on a 2 1/2 hour flight) a plane from Excel Airlines (who??) takes us to Gatwick.
Of course, we were supposed to be going to Heathrow, where the flight to Tokyo leaves from. Can we get to Heathrow at 1:30am when we land? No. We have to stay the night in Gatwick, then take the bloody bus from Gatwick to Heathrow. That means we can sleep for 5 hours only, because we have to schedule 90 minutes to get to Heathrow and of course be there nice and early to check in as we now are not automatically checked in because of the fact we are in a different airport and our bags are with us.
But I am writing this in Tokyo, so we got here eventually. 48 hours late. Thanks BA!
Oh, when we got to Heathrow I thought that perhaps BA owed me something and maybe, seeing as I missed my birthday, they would upgrade us to something a little nicer. Wrong. To quote BA ground staff - there was 'no reason' to perform the upgrade. And I was reminded that GB Airways is NOT BA (despite flying under their logo). I pointed out that I had booked tickets on ba.com, not GBAirways.com, but they weren't having it.
In short - GBAirways has a lot to answer for.
Saturday 15 April 2006
Spanish Spirit Holidays
I have to put in an entry about my wife's company, Spanish Spirit Holidays. They are in their new premises and things are starting to take off. It is great to see someone following their dreams and making a success of it. Along with her partner Jeanette they have started to bring people down to our humble end of the Costa del Sol for healthy holidays.
I've sat in on the first few weekends and I think it is pretty amazing. The location is very nice - a hotel not too far from the beach but nicely quiet. And the room is great too.
Check it out! I think you'll find something you like.
Spanish Spirit Holidays
I've sat in on the first few weekends and I think it is pretty amazing. The location is very nice - a hotel not too far from the beach but nicely quiet. And the room is great too.
Check it out! I think you'll find something you like.
Spanish Spirit Holidays
Tuesday 11 April 2006
Kicking the habit
No, nothing to do with abusing Nun's.
After 15 years I think I am finally free of my EastEnders addiction. I have pretty much watched the show since day one, with the short break here and there.
When I moved to Europe - and Canada was still 2 years behind in the shows - I had my brother mail over (pre high speed internet days!) tapes of the shows. Crazy!
But now it has been a month since I've seen it and I don't miss it one bit.
Of course, I have been too busy watching Lost, ER, 24 and so forth to care, really.
After 15 years I think I am finally free of my EastEnders addiction. I have pretty much watched the show since day one, with the short break here and there.
When I moved to Europe - and Canada was still 2 years behind in the shows - I had my brother mail over (pre high speed internet days!) tapes of the shows. Crazy!
But now it has been a month since I've seen it and I don't miss it one bit.
Of course, I have been too busy watching Lost, ER, 24 and so forth to care, really.
Saturday 1 April 2006
Introducing....The PRICK Principle
I'm working on this theory - a theory about living life. I call it PRICK. Of course it's an acronym.
It came about as I sat around thinking about what guides my life. If I had to distill it down into a Self-Help Marketing Campaign, what would it be. And I came up with PRICK.
P - Profundity.
See below the surface of things. Look at the depth of life
R - Responsibiity.
Own your actions. Accept the consequences of them.
I - Integrity.
Be known as someone who has principles - and sticks to them.
C - Conscience and Compassion.
Treat others as you would be treated - animals too. See others' suffering, and try to relieve it.
K - Knowledge.
Never make a judgement through ignorance. Learn all you can about those things that matter in your life - and some that don't
Over the next little while you'll see things on here expanding on these principles.
You too can be a PRICK.
It came about as I sat around thinking about what guides my life. If I had to distill it down into a Self-Help Marketing Campaign, what would it be. And I came up with PRICK.
P - Profundity.
See below the surface of things. Look at the depth of life
R - Responsibiity.
Own your actions. Accept the consequences of them.
I - Integrity.
Be known as someone who has principles - and sticks to them.
C - Conscience and Compassion.
Treat others as you would be treated - animals too. See others' suffering, and try to relieve it.
K - Knowledge.
Never make a judgement through ignorance. Learn all you can about those things that matter in your life - and some that don't
Over the next little while you'll see things on here expanding on these principles.
You too can be a PRICK.
Wednesday 29 March 2006
Truby-ized
I just came back from an intense long weekend in London. I was up there attending John Truby's 22-steps story workshop.
Now, perhaps naiively, I thought I understoood screenplay structure. I've been writing them for a while now, and though, while not anything close to a master, I knew what I was doing.
I now see that my knowledge, while a good foundation, could be taken to the next level.
I didn't leave the weekend feeling defeated (like some of my fellow attendees) but exhilirated. I found that a lot of what I knew was right, not much was wrong, and a lot can be taken on to greater heights.
Truby must have spent a good deal of his life in front of the tv, analysing story structure. His insights to character progression are something else. His ability to tie in character and plot devlopment, and to illustrate they are really the same thing can only make a writer understand on a deeper level the interplay in what he writes.
If you are a screenwriter, take this course. It is that simple.
Now, the caveats. If you are a beginning screenwriter DON'T take the course. Lots of people left with a headache. There was too much information (I came away with more than 50 pages of notes) for someone to comprehend who wasn't a little up on their structure already.
Also, if you are not interesting in self-development, don't take it. As writers we have to understand human needs, desires and drive - not just in our characters, but in ourselves. I meet a lot of writers that don't seem to understand that you can't write if you don't know yourself. It just doesn't work.
A lot of what Truby says could have been lifted from self-developmnt gurus and for good reason. In recent months I too have been looking at this connection and seeing the direct applicability of Tony Robbins onto my characters. Hey, if it works for me (which I feel it does) it can work for understanding them too.
As I gear up to teaching MY first screenwriting class I learned a lot from Truby, and just in the nick of time. I have 3 months to assimilate it and get it back out to my students.
Of course now I am having to re-write at least 2 feature scripts and 2 shorts to take into account this knew found 'structure vision'. Thanks a lot John!
Now, perhaps naiively, I thought I understoood screenplay structure. I've been writing them for a while now, and though, while not anything close to a master, I knew what I was doing.
I now see that my knowledge, while a good foundation, could be taken to the next level.
I didn't leave the weekend feeling defeated (like some of my fellow attendees) but exhilirated. I found that a lot of what I knew was right, not much was wrong, and a lot can be taken on to greater heights.
Truby must have spent a good deal of his life in front of the tv, analysing story structure. His insights to character progression are something else. His ability to tie in character and plot devlopment, and to illustrate they are really the same thing can only make a writer understand on a deeper level the interplay in what he writes.
If you are a screenwriter, take this course. It is that simple.
Now, the caveats. If you are a beginning screenwriter DON'T take the course. Lots of people left with a headache. There was too much information (I came away with more than 50 pages of notes) for someone to comprehend who wasn't a little up on their structure already.
Also, if you are not interesting in self-development, don't take it. As writers we have to understand human needs, desires and drive - not just in our characters, but in ourselves. I meet a lot of writers that don't seem to understand that you can't write if you don't know yourself. It just doesn't work.
A lot of what Truby says could have been lifted from self-developmnt gurus and for good reason. In recent months I too have been looking at this connection and seeing the direct applicability of Tony Robbins onto my characters. Hey, if it works for me (which I feel it does) it can work for understanding them too.
As I gear up to teaching MY first screenwriting class I learned a lot from Truby, and just in the nick of time. I have 3 months to assimilate it and get it back out to my students.
Of course now I am having to re-write at least 2 feature scripts and 2 shorts to take into account this knew found 'structure vision'. Thanks a lot John!
Runway 2006 - the night
Last night I had the opportunity to be a judge at Runway 2006, a modeling competition of sorts in Gibraltar.
It was a fascinating experience. The crowd was incredible - the show was sold out (Gibraltarians have big families!) - and noisy! Wow. You would have thought that some superstar was onstage by the reactions these wanna be models got. Silly in one way, but I guess you have to give credit to their level of support.
There were 26 contestants, though one, for whatever reason, was a no-show.
Walking in the door I really had no idea about what I was supposed to do. What I was judging on. I was to find out!
There were 6 judges in total. One was a Gibraltarian male model - off to NYC in a couple weeks (!), one a travel agent, one an account, one an artist, one I am sorry to say I can't remember...and me, a humble screenwriter guy. All the other judges were Gibraltarian. Some knew some of the contestants, which surely compromised their objectivity!
We were told what to judge on, and one criteria was 'age-appropriateness'. The show was for kids 13-17. Now, part of the problem I saw was that some of the judges obviously had no idea what 13-17 year olds really get up to as words like 'sweet' and 'innocent' were passed around as opposed to 'drunken' and 'horny'. With a soaring teen pregnacy rate I failed to see how forcing these kids to represent something that few of them probably were seemed a bit perverse.
Anyway, on with the show.
Let's face it, its a small town and therefore you are not going to be blessed with a wide catch of hopefuls. Of the 26 I could say right away that there were maybe 10 that I thought had something that could be molded into a person I would want to see in print and on the catwalk. Some were down right dreadful. The word 'Elephant' actually passed my lips.
I had my favourites. But sadly I was shouted down in the voting process. So, the people who won were not my choices. I was an outsider and I guess my background has led me to see people differently. I still think I judged well, in the cold light of what I saw on the night.
So, perhaps in violation of my judges agreement, I will say I thought the best were (photo links I hope):
Male:
[img=images/run13.jpg popup=true]
* Andrew Jefferies - this guy's presence onstage was palpable! He commanded the stage. He got in 2nd on the night and started to cry which did kind of damage his bad boy image. But still - he was great.
[img=images/run8.jpg popup=true]
* Adnan Laudy - again, someone who commanded attention. He was goofy, but oozed charisma. You could not help but look at this guy.
Female:
[img=images/run10.jpg popup=true]
* Tiffany Dalmedo - this chick kicked ass! Absolute confidence. Kind of frightening. The other judges found her too mature for her age. One actually said that she doesn't dress like a 17 year old. Guess what? She IS 17, ergo however she dresses is how a 17 year old dresses. Duh?!
[img=images/run17.jpg popup=true]
* Kirsty Cornelio - she's wierd looking...which is a good thing! Don't anyone tell you otherwise! A real sparkle. Her outfits (the kids chose their own) were something. Personally I actually found her in a completely different league as far as looks and style went. With some attention this girl could really do something, if she wanted. I got a little bit of an impression that she wasn't into it.
[img=images/run18.jpg popup=true]
* Genyka Celecia - has to be an actress or a model - just look at the wacky name! I have to say her photo wasn't that great, but in person I thought she was stunning.
I want to write a film using the above-mentioned kids. I wonder if any of them can act? Or even speak?
So, I have purged my heavy sarcasm from this post (I saved that for the version I told my friends), but, it was a good night.
The 5 I mention above had something we should have been told to mark on - confidence. Most people - not me - HATE going on stage. If you can't get on stage how can you pursue something that is in front of the public?
My fear is that these 5 will fall prey to the negative 'realistic' people who will tell them that pursuing such a life choice is silly. Become a banker or something else instead. Screw them. Don't listen to them! Do something you want to do - you dream of doing. Don't listen to your school's guidance counsellor! Why should you go into a job for life just because you MIGHT show a minor aptitude at it when you are 16?!?
Anyway. over and out!
It was a fascinating experience. The crowd was incredible - the show was sold out (Gibraltarians have big families!) - and noisy! Wow. You would have thought that some superstar was onstage by the reactions these wanna be models got. Silly in one way, but I guess you have to give credit to their level of support.
There were 26 contestants, though one, for whatever reason, was a no-show.
Walking in the door I really had no idea about what I was supposed to do. What I was judging on. I was to find out!
There were 6 judges in total. One was a Gibraltarian male model - off to NYC in a couple weeks (!), one a travel agent, one an account, one an artist, one I am sorry to say I can't remember...and me, a humble screenwriter guy. All the other judges were Gibraltarian. Some knew some of the contestants, which surely compromised their objectivity!
We were told what to judge on, and one criteria was 'age-appropriateness'. The show was for kids 13-17. Now, part of the problem I saw was that some of the judges obviously had no idea what 13-17 year olds really get up to as words like 'sweet' and 'innocent' were passed around as opposed to 'drunken' and 'horny'. With a soaring teen pregnacy rate I failed to see how forcing these kids to represent something that few of them probably were seemed a bit perverse.
Anyway, on with the show.
Let's face it, its a small town and therefore you are not going to be blessed with a wide catch of hopefuls. Of the 26 I could say right away that there were maybe 10 that I thought had something that could be molded into a person I would want to see in print and on the catwalk. Some were down right dreadful. The word 'Elephant' actually passed my lips.
I had my favourites. But sadly I was shouted down in the voting process. So, the people who won were not my choices. I was an outsider and I guess my background has led me to see people differently. I still think I judged well, in the cold light of what I saw on the night.
So, perhaps in violation of my judges agreement, I will say I thought the best were (photo links I hope):
Male:
[img=images/run13.jpg popup=true]
* Andrew Jefferies - this guy's presence onstage was palpable! He commanded the stage. He got in 2nd on the night and started to cry which did kind of damage his bad boy image. But still - he was great.
[img=images/run8.jpg popup=true]
* Adnan Laudy - again, someone who commanded attention. He was goofy, but oozed charisma. You could not help but look at this guy.
Female:
[img=images/run10.jpg popup=true]
* Tiffany Dalmedo - this chick kicked ass! Absolute confidence. Kind of frightening. The other judges found her too mature for her age. One actually said that she doesn't dress like a 17 year old. Guess what? She IS 17, ergo however she dresses is how a 17 year old dresses. Duh?!
[img=images/run17.jpg popup=true]
* Kirsty Cornelio - she's wierd looking...which is a good thing! Don't anyone tell you otherwise! A real sparkle. Her outfits (the kids chose their own) were something. Personally I actually found her in a completely different league as far as looks and style went. With some attention this girl could really do something, if she wanted. I got a little bit of an impression that she wasn't into it.
[img=images/run18.jpg popup=true]
* Genyka Celecia - has to be an actress or a model - just look at the wacky name! I have to say her photo wasn't that great, but in person I thought she was stunning.
I want to write a film using the above-mentioned kids. I wonder if any of them can act? Or even speak?
So, I have purged my heavy sarcasm from this post (I saved that for the version I told my friends), but, it was a good night.
The 5 I mention above had something we should have been told to mark on - confidence. Most people - not me - HATE going on stage. If you can't get on stage how can you pursue something that is in front of the public?
My fear is that these 5 will fall prey to the negative 'realistic' people who will tell them that pursuing such a life choice is silly. Become a banker or something else instead. Screw them. Don't listen to them! Do something you want to do - you dream of doing. Don't listen to your school's guidance counsellor! Why should you go into a job for life just because you MIGHT show a minor aptitude at it when you are 16?!?
Anyway. over and out!
Thursday 9 March 2006
Runway 2006
Someone, who obviously doesn't know me very well, has asked me to be a judge at Runway 2006. I have included the press release for this below.
I will do my honest best at this. It is great to be recognized enough to be asked to do such a thing. I was going to offer the winner a part in my next film but...
Well, it will be great blog-fodder.
Press Release:
Runway 2006, organised by Mount Productions, will be held on 17th March at the John Mackintosh Hall Theatre. A total of twenty six young people are taking part in the contest and rehearsals are now well underway.
Aimed at young people interested in fashion, who want to experience both runway and photographic modelling, the teenagers are given an opportunity to learn about photographic skills, presentation, grooming and posture. The photographic sessions also seek to develop an awareness of visual impact, the importance of expression and communication in relation to image and product and the ability to relax and be natural in age appropriate ways.
The winners will take part in a photographic shoot on site in Spain but there is a possibility that it could take place in the Algarve in Portugal and they will become the faces promoting the summer season Protest collection at Hangloose. Other prizes include Most Photogenic, Most Dynamic and Best Personality recognising skills identified by the organisers and the panel of judges.
The contest is divided into four sections. The photographic part of the contest is prejudged and involves participants choosing three different looks and developing a presentation style with a team of professional make up artists and hairdressers. In preparation for this the models took part in a photography workshop where they experienced what it was like to be at both ends of the camera.
A second section involves models developing a look around a theme which was given to them last week. This could involve being told to combine three colours, a specific garment, or to combine items from different traditions or decades. Last year they were asked to work around the theme of 'Sport'.
The third section involves a style chosen by the organising team and requiring interpretation by the young models.
Finally the participants are allowed to choose clothing with which they identify, and would be pleased to associate themselves with, developing their own runway routine.
"The young people have responded extremely well in a very short space of time. They form a very diverse group from different backgrounds and they are full of energy, enthusiasm and good ideas.The end product is no doubt set to be just as successful and enjoyable as last year but it is clear that the process and the developmental activities involved have been important and very fulfilling," said Charlene Figueras.
Tickets will be on sale at the John Mackintosh Hall Theatre from 14th March from 6-8pm and they are priced at £10.
I will do my honest best at this. It is great to be recognized enough to be asked to do such a thing. I was going to offer the winner a part in my next film but...
Well, it will be great blog-fodder.
Press Release:
Runway 2006, organised by Mount Productions, will be held on 17th March at the John Mackintosh Hall Theatre. A total of twenty six young people are taking part in the contest and rehearsals are now well underway.
Aimed at young people interested in fashion, who want to experience both runway and photographic modelling, the teenagers are given an opportunity to learn about photographic skills, presentation, grooming and posture. The photographic sessions also seek to develop an awareness of visual impact, the importance of expression and communication in relation to image and product and the ability to relax and be natural in age appropriate ways.
The winners will take part in a photographic shoot on site in Spain but there is a possibility that it could take place in the Algarve in Portugal and they will become the faces promoting the summer season Protest collection at Hangloose. Other prizes include Most Photogenic, Most Dynamic and Best Personality recognising skills identified by the organisers and the panel of judges.
The contest is divided into four sections. The photographic part of the contest is prejudged and involves participants choosing three different looks and developing a presentation style with a team of professional make up artists and hairdressers. In preparation for this the models took part in a photography workshop where they experienced what it was like to be at both ends of the camera.
A second section involves models developing a look around a theme which was given to them last week. This could involve being told to combine three colours, a specific garment, or to combine items from different traditions or decades. Last year they were asked to work around the theme of 'Sport'.
The third section involves a style chosen by the organising team and requiring interpretation by the young models.
Finally the participants are allowed to choose clothing with which they identify, and would be pleased to associate themselves with, developing their own runway routine.
"The young people have responded extremely well in a very short space of time. They form a very diverse group from different backgrounds and they are full of energy, enthusiasm and good ideas.The end product is no doubt set to be just as successful and enjoyable as last year but it is clear that the process and the developmental activities involved have been important and very fulfilling," said Charlene Figueras.
Tickets will be on sale at the John Mackintosh Hall Theatre from 14th March from 6-8pm and they are priced at £10.
Monday 27 February 2006
The Devil's in the details
So I am spending a week in Canada. I came over for my mother's birthday (collective 'awww' from the audience). Of course, once you hand over the card and the presents the issue becomes 'what do I do with the rest of my time here?'
This town is small. And industrial. And like a lot of small and industrial towns finding interesting things to do that don't involve fiddles, line dancing and Molson Canadian is a difficult thing.
I thought I had been thrown a lifeline when I heard about 'cineSarnia' - an interesting program that gets film prints from the Toronto Film Festival people and shows films in the local library auditorium. Films that wouldn't get a chance in the 6 screen multiplex dedicated to teen films and action pics.
The film was 'Everything is Illuminated'. Despite the tale I am about to relate, the film is brilliant. I HIGHLY recommend it - especially to young directors. The picture is a first film and is a slice of heaven on celluloid.
But, this being a small town, things do not go as planned.
'cineSarnia' is one of these local arts organisations that depends on sponsorship and funding. Like most of these things I am sure that people do it so they can boast that they support it - they don't necessarily love film. If they loved film then the following couldn't have happened.
There are many difficult jobs in the film business. Writing is arduous. Directing and producing fraught with stress and logistical nightmares. Editing a very fiddly, time consuming process.
Being the projectionist in a cinema is not, in general, considered to be one of these difficult jobs. Unless you are the projectionist for 'cineSarnia'.
Job 1 for the projectionist (of film). thread the film. This, the most difficult task, seemingly was accomplished without a hitch.
Job 2 - make sure the right lens is on the projector. <buzz> Failure! The star of this film was Elijah wood. In my opinion he is already a bit wierd looking. Try looking at him through the anamorphic lens! He looks like ET! The film was ruined by using the wrong lens. Even though it was obvious from the first minute of film the projectionist failed to change it.
Job 3 - focus. Doh! Not working right. Personally, I think stars should be sharp points of light, not look like toilet rolls against a black background.
The people in line had been told there were no subtitles so it didn't matter where they sat. Guess what? about 50% of the dialog is subtitled. So a LOT of people were unhappy.
In short it was a fiasco. A farce. An embarassment actually.
If you don't want to do the job right, then don't do the job.
But, great film. Rent it, buy it, watch it.
Oh yeah, and after the film I thought I'd go have a drink. I needed it. Went to a local bar where I had to hear 2 guitar players trying to teach each other how to play 'My Sweet Lord' (WRONG, by the way guys) for 25 minutes.
This town is small. And industrial. And like a lot of small and industrial towns finding interesting things to do that don't involve fiddles, line dancing and Molson Canadian is a difficult thing.
I thought I had been thrown a lifeline when I heard about 'cineSarnia' - an interesting program that gets film prints from the Toronto Film Festival people and shows films in the local library auditorium. Films that wouldn't get a chance in the 6 screen multiplex dedicated to teen films and action pics.
The film was 'Everything is Illuminated'. Despite the tale I am about to relate, the film is brilliant. I HIGHLY recommend it - especially to young directors. The picture is a first film and is a slice of heaven on celluloid.
But, this being a small town, things do not go as planned.
'cineSarnia' is one of these local arts organisations that depends on sponsorship and funding. Like most of these things I am sure that people do it so they can boast that they support it - they don't necessarily love film. If they loved film then the following couldn't have happened.
There are many difficult jobs in the film business. Writing is arduous. Directing and producing fraught with stress and logistical nightmares. Editing a very fiddly, time consuming process.
Being the projectionist in a cinema is not, in general, considered to be one of these difficult jobs. Unless you are the projectionist for 'cineSarnia'.
Job 1 for the projectionist (of film). thread the film. This, the most difficult task, seemingly was accomplished without a hitch.
Job 2 - make sure the right lens is on the projector. <buzz> Failure! The star of this film was Elijah wood. In my opinion he is already a bit wierd looking. Try looking at him through the anamorphic lens! He looks like ET! The film was ruined by using the wrong lens. Even though it was obvious from the first minute of film the projectionist failed to change it.
Job 3 - focus. Doh! Not working right. Personally, I think stars should be sharp points of light, not look like toilet rolls against a black background.
The people in line had been told there were no subtitles so it didn't matter where they sat. Guess what? about 50% of the dialog is subtitled. So a LOT of people were unhappy.
In short it was a fiasco. A farce. An embarassment actually.
If you don't want to do the job right, then don't do the job.
But, great film. Rent it, buy it, watch it.
Oh yeah, and after the film I thought I'd go have a drink. I needed it. Went to a local bar where I had to hear 2 guitar players trying to teach each other how to play 'My Sweet Lord' (WRONG, by the way guys) for 25 minutes.
Thursday 23 February 2006
Editing done
Its done! Simon and I spent a day doing the rough edit and I spent a couple more days polishing it off as he galavants around the pacific rim.
I don't think I can put it on the website until after nominations are closed for the Cacophony competition. All 2 of you dying to see it will have to wait.
Oh, and I lied. There is a dog in it. Just not one of mine.
I don't think I can put it on the website until after nominations are closed for the Cacophony competition. All 2 of you dying to see it will have to wait.
Oh, and I lied. There is a dog in it. Just not one of mine.
Saturday 4 February 2006
It's a wrap!
7 hours later, shooting on The Reunion is done.
I often say that the thing I love about film is the collaborative nature of it. This was no exception.
The challenge - if you remember/care - was to produce a film for Cacaphony Music competition. With today's footage we should do it.
Production stills (shot by Peter Cavanaugh) coming soon on the main site.
John Harris (our man from Man's Best Friend) was once again Guy.
Marcie Greene knocked an upexpected home run as Girl
Lisa Triay played Nora.
Last but not least, my friend and co-hort in cinematic crime, Simon Ordish, played Man.
Simon and myself were amply aided by Martin Nuza (filmmaker in his own right).
No expense was spared (except it seems in the naming of characters). Coffee was served twice.
Problems occurred (last minute cast cancellations and location dropouts) but we persevered.
Thanks guys. Let's see how we do.
Dogs make no appearance in the film.
I often say that the thing I love about film is the collaborative nature of it. This was no exception.
The challenge - if you remember/care - was to produce a film for Cacaphony Music competition. With today's footage we should do it.
Production stills (shot by Peter Cavanaugh) coming soon on the main site.
John Harris (our man from Man's Best Friend) was once again Guy.
Marcie Greene knocked an upexpected home run as Girl
Lisa Triay played Nora.
Last but not least, my friend and co-hort in cinematic crime, Simon Ordish, played Man.
Simon and myself were amply aided by Martin Nuza (filmmaker in his own right).
No expense was spared (except it seems in the naming of characters). Coffee was served twice.
Problems occurred (last minute cast cancellations and location dropouts) but we persevered.
Thanks guys. Let's see how we do.
Dogs make no appearance in the film.
Thursday 26 January 2006
Fat, Forty* and Foreign
This is the title for my book about coming to Vienna. A collection of articles on being the uncool outsider.
I've discovered some jazz clubs. One is a dive and one is posh. You know me, I love dives. This is no exception. Cheap benches with the vanish worn off by years of jazz-loving asses wiggling around on them. Big steins of beer. rickety tables, poor sightlines, bad pa. Perfect! Had a good time, but, talking with 3 musicians (yes, women) at the end of the night they just decided they'd had enough of talking english to this old fool and literally just turned their backs on me and started talking back in german. Thanks ladies!
The other place is posh (though beer is the same price as the dive). The music here is the real deal. Lines of Berklee-waffle eminating from the guitar player. Jazz Singer - some white chick who, when I listened closely, actually has a monotone or monovolume. Cool percussionist who thinks he's in the grateful dead.
Vienna is full of weirdos. Quite literally once a day I see someone walking down the street crying. That's not normal. Last night this very odd guy dressed in full parka and wolly hat - INSIDE the club - comes up to me and starts talking German. I apologise for not speaking it. I should have turned and ran then, but he starts talking in English.
'You are a musician'
'Yes, I used to be'
'You are good, I can tell'
'Uh, ok. Thanks'
'I bet you are professional. You could get up there and play'
'Um, I need to get a beer'
But charming. At least they are not starting a fight like in Toronto or London. And hey, maybe I can use his endorsement sometime.
But the posh place was cheap enough that students go there to soak it up. Which is great. But then, they aren't really interested (AGAIN!) in talking with someone like me so conversations are usually painful and brief. Was I like that? Actually, I may be like that now, so perhaps that is the problem.
* I'm actually not 40 yet, but it sounds better.
I've discovered some jazz clubs. One is a dive and one is posh. You know me, I love dives. This is no exception. Cheap benches with the vanish worn off by years of jazz-loving asses wiggling around on them. Big steins of beer. rickety tables, poor sightlines, bad pa. Perfect! Had a good time, but, talking with 3 musicians (yes, women) at the end of the night they just decided they'd had enough of talking english to this old fool and literally just turned their backs on me and started talking back in german. Thanks ladies!
The other place is posh (though beer is the same price as the dive). The music here is the real deal. Lines of Berklee-waffle eminating from the guitar player. Jazz Singer - some white chick who, when I listened closely, actually has a monotone or monovolume. Cool percussionist who thinks he's in the grateful dead.
Vienna is full of weirdos. Quite literally once a day I see someone walking down the street crying. That's not normal. Last night this very odd guy dressed in full parka and wolly hat - INSIDE the club - comes up to me and starts talking German. I apologise for not speaking it. I should have turned and ran then, but he starts talking in English.
'You are a musician'
'Yes, I used to be'
'You are good, I can tell'
'Uh, ok. Thanks'
'I bet you are professional. You could get up there and play'
'Um, I need to get a beer'
But charming. At least they are not starting a fight like in Toronto or London. And hey, maybe I can use his endorsement sometime.
But the posh place was cheap enough that students go there to soak it up. Which is great. But then, they aren't really interested (AGAIN!) in talking with someone like me so conversations are usually painful and brief. Was I like that? Actually, I may be like that now, so perhaps that is the problem.
* I'm actually not 40 yet, but it sounds better.
Saturday 21 January 2006
The bumps in the road
Well, the girl I wanted in 'The Reunion' has pulled out.
The lady who runs a theatre company that I was hoping to find other actors through is not answering her phone.
I have to go to Vienna tomorrow and I have no cast.
Filming in 2 weeks.
Argh!
The lady who runs a theatre company that I was hoping to find other actors through is not answering her phone.
I have to go to Vienna tomorrow and I have no cast.
Filming in 2 weeks.
Argh!
Tuesday 17 January 2006
Thursday 12 January 2006
Location hunting
With Dave and his wife Linda down here this weekend it seems a perfect excuse to go location hunting.
Pictures of potential locations always get people excited about a project. It lets them project themselves into the film.
With the slip shod PLL PKM we did no such thing. A) we never thought about it in advance b) the girls were motivated enough as it was!
WSA is a different beast. We have Chris coming over from the states and Magda from the UK for a start. It would be great to get them in the mood of the piece before they get here.
Magda has it easy, all she has to play is the perfect vision of inner beauty. Chris gets to sweat a lot and be a frustrated wally. I still need to find an older man to play a mystic. I need to get my finger out on that.
The latest on shooting is the week after Cannes.
Pictures of potential locations always get people excited about a project. It lets them project themselves into the film.
With the slip shod PLL PKM we did no such thing. A) we never thought about it in advance b) the girls were motivated enough as it was!
WSA is a different beast. We have Chris coming over from the states and Magda from the UK for a start. It would be great to get them in the mood of the piece before they get here.
Magda has it easy, all she has to play is the perfect vision of inner beauty. Chris gets to sweat a lot and be a frustrated wally. I still need to find an older man to play a mystic. I need to get my finger out on that.
The latest on shooting is the week after Cannes.
Finally - MBLL usable draft
I finally finished a good draft of this thing!
It's a comedic tale revolving around an American in London and his search for love. Two main characters, limited locations. Perfect for low budget!
This is based in London (though I guess I could shoot it anywhere). Hmm. Good point, Phil. Why go to London to shoot. Perhaps I can find a london-like location down here. But then we have sun down here, which kind of makes it hard for it to double for dreary Londinium.
So, this makes 5 films (3 shorts, 1 doc and 1 feature) I have in various stages of development. Madness!
It's a comedic tale revolving around an American in London and his search for love. Two main characters, limited locations. Perfect for low budget!
This is based in London (though I guess I could shoot it anywhere). Hmm. Good point, Phil. Why go to London to shoot. Perhaps I can find a london-like location down here. But then we have sun down here, which kind of makes it hard for it to double for dreary Londinium.
So, this makes 5 films (3 shorts, 1 doc and 1 feature) I have in various stages of development. Madness!
Tuesday 10 January 2006
Casting
Found a 'new actress' to play the lead in this 4 minute ditty for Cacophony. Have a bead on the remaining 3.
Shoot scheduled for first weekend in Feb
2 weeks of editing
Shoot scheduled for first weekend in Feb
2 weeks of editing
Saturday 7 January 2006
New images
I've uploaded some new photos to my 2005 photos.
Also, check out the new CostaSites.com additions like CostaPokerPlace.com
Also, check out the new CostaSites.com additions like CostaPokerPlace.com
Sunday 1 January 2006
Happy New Year
I think I am the 23,001,356 person to write that in their blog in the last 24hours. Sad.
It was a traditional New Year's in my house - had our neighbours over and watched Jools' Hootenany. You didn't miss anything.
I never make New Year's resolutions. They seem doomed to failure, and as I am paranoid that my life is doomed to failure anyway I don't see any point in adding fuel to the fire.
Instead of writing this I should be finishing up the first draft of MBLL. I am 30% through it. I could finish it today, but instead I will:
* Clean up the backyard
* Do the dishes
* Walk the dogs
* Make the bed
* Look on Amazon for the best films of 2005 - both editors and customers choices
* Which Chinese news on tv (fascinating story about traditional Haanen clothing being shown in Shanghai province!)
i.e. the usual procrastination techniques.
But I did see an actress that would be great for the main female character in MBLL, so that has kind of inspired me.
Last week, during the nightmare return from Vienna, the idea struck me to do a documentary on dogs in spain. I have had the thought before. The problem is I know nothing about how to make a documentary. It's not point and shoot. That is the 'easy' part. It is how to make it compelling. The story. A good documentary has many similar facets of a good drama, so I should understand it. Maybe I just need to start and get on with it.
A new category on here might arise if I decide to go further.
It was a traditional New Year's in my house - had our neighbours over and watched Jools' Hootenany. You didn't miss anything.
I never make New Year's resolutions. They seem doomed to failure, and as I am paranoid that my life is doomed to failure anyway I don't see any point in adding fuel to the fire.
Instead of writing this I should be finishing up the first draft of MBLL. I am 30% through it. I could finish it today, but instead I will:
* Clean up the backyard
* Do the dishes
* Walk the dogs
* Make the bed
* Look on Amazon for the best films of 2005 - both editors and customers choices
* Which Chinese news on tv (fascinating story about traditional Haanen clothing being shown in Shanghai province!)
i.e. the usual procrastination techniques.
But I did see an actress that would be great for the main female character in MBLL, so that has kind of inspired me.
Last week, during the nightmare return from Vienna, the idea struck me to do a documentary on dogs in spain. I have had the thought before. The problem is I know nothing about how to make a documentary. It's not point and shoot. That is the 'easy' part. It is how to make it compelling. The story. A good documentary has many similar facets of a good drama, so I should understand it. Maybe I just need to start and get on with it.
A new category on here might arise if I decide to go further.
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