The Little Things…

This amazing gift was sent to me from a darling person (thanks Victoria!) that I met at the Charlotte Film Festival.  I was there last year with NEW YORK LATELY and hope to return sooner than later.

I’ve said before there is something magical to me when people gather to watch something that I had a hand in creating.  It was a dream of mine that finally came true — and that I never take for granted.  Attending screenings, meeting people, making friends (with film goers and filmmakers) and generating awareness is truly what it’s all about.

When I received this picture a few days ago, it was a very special gesture to me.  For someone to take time out of their day to think of me and not only buy this — but send it to me in support for my new film WHAT’S UP LOVELY……that blows my mind.

This also illustrates to me how important it is as a filmmaker to go to your screenings whenever possible, connect with people and build interest in your films.  They will indeed be there for you with your next one.

Kickstarter Song Requests

HOW DO YOU WRITE A JOE SCHERMANN SONG – a new feature film musical

We have had tremendous love and support for my musical film fundraising campaign on Kickstarter.

As part of our thank you rewards, we (well…not me — but our talented actors Joe Schermann and Christina Rose) have been performing special song requests for people that pledge at the $300 level or higher.  These treats are usually just for the backers enjoyment, but I’ve included this one here that I think is extra special….you’ll see why:

HOW DO YOU WRITE A JOE SCHERMANN SONG | Kickstarter Update | Special Song Request from Gary King on Vimeo.

This one is a Burt Bacharach song request for our backers only. Pledge any amount (as little as $1) and join the fun!

HOW DO YOU WRITE A JOE SCHERMANN SONG | Kickstarter Update | A Song for Brendon from Gary King on Vimeo.

Thanks to everyone who has pledged and spread the word of our project.  We really cannot do it without you and appreciate all that you have done.

We are getting closer to our goal — so please help us keep the momentum with a donation or telling someone you know about us.

My Most Anticipated — Truly Indie — Films of 2010 (Vol. 2)

A running list that I’ll update from time to time as things catch my eye.

– See Vol. 1 here

THE PEOPLE I’VE SLEPT WITH – dir. Quentin Lee
THE MYTH OF THE AMERICAN SLEEPOVER – dir. David Robert Mitchell

The People I’ve Slept With Trailer from People Pictures on Vimeo.

The Myth of the American Sleepover – Official Trailer from Strike Anywhere on Vimeo.

I Am a Follower (and you should be too)

Yes I admit it — I am a follower. This is for y’all in the Twitter-dome.

Basically on Fridays, it has become a tradition to list those important tweeters in your life that you wish to share with the rest of the network. It’s called Follow Friday. It has helped make me many connections around the globe. For the most part, people simply list the Twitter ID of who they follow and nothing more — so all we see sometimes is a sea of ID’s. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve met a lot of people this way. But I’ve gained so much from these connections that I wanted to share some of them with you.

So here is a write up that will be posted and updated as the time goes on – with the important people I believe you should take an interest in as they all have something special and unique to share. These are not just copies of their Twitter bios (which are included) – I’ve written why I think you should follow them and how they’ve enriched my life and career.

Here is my initial list — it is not all encompassing. It will take a while to cover everyone. (Note: I picked up this idea from @jeannevb and her list)

And if you would like to connect with me I’m at @grking and my films:

WHAT’S UP LOVELY is @lovelyfilm

HOW DO YOU WRITE A JOE SCHERMANN SONG is @JSchermannSong

Updated: (Fri) AUGUST 27, 2010

***NEWLY ADDED***

@therealadm – “pmdforhire.com | Canuck | Bionic Blogger | www.adamdanielmezei.com | www.northkoreablues.com | www.vitamincshow.com | Straddling the Communist-Capitalist worlds” – Huge supporter and someone to keep an eye on navigating the whole PMD movement

@JustinWHedges – “The 3 a.m. Screenwriter – Dad, Husband, screenwriter, professional activity juggler” – aspiring screenwriter sharing his journey – supporting his fellow artists and learnings

CROWDFUNDING CAMPAIGNS:
@MJ_Slide – “I’m a screenwriter and indie film-maker. watch sci-fi, hang with fans, have a rich fantasy life, and die laughing in Jane Austen movies.” – a passionate young filmmaker who is doing more things at her age I only wish I’d been doing.  She has an Indiegogo campaign going on for THE SAVING

@garyploski - “A theatre/film actor, technologist, blogger, web series, web fu, athlete in the CT/NY area.” – a very supportive artist willing to share his knowledge and pursuits in the arts – he has a Kickstarter campaign for Rising Star

***RECENT FAVORITES***

@Merrynell -“I look forward to movies, cups o’ joe, Facebook notifications, and retweets. I blog about those sometimes.” – always has something interesting to say, big proponent of indie films and recently has been sharing many insights and has been active on engaging your audience

@davidbranin – “Director/Writer/Producer of Night Before the Wedding & Goodbye Promise, and Co-Host of LA Talk Radio’s Film Courage” – filmmaker and huge independent film advocate truly building and fostering a community of filmmakers — so much so that he runs a radio talk-show called @FilmCourage where he has had some very impressive guests (Ted Hope, INK filmmakers Jamin and Kiowa Winana, Mark Duplass, Lynn Shelton, Alex Holdridge and numerous others). He has been nothing but supportive of me from the very beginning and I cannot thank him enough.

@PretentiousFilm – “A society of part time bohemian film lovers dedicated to the exhibition of indie cinematic excellence and the consumption of munchies & drink while doing such.” – How can you not like a bunch of filmmakers who love film so much they curate a film series in Annapolis, Maryland? And the type of films shown are truly indie — the underdogs. Very nice people and a little-known fact that they are also behind the film REDNECK ZOMBIES! What’s not to love about them?

@Christinarose12 – “www.christina-rose.com” — an actress that I love working with – I met her on DEATH OF THE DEAD and we hit off so much I brought her on board for my a musical titled “HOW DO YOU WRITE A JOE SCHERMANN SONG” – Broadway, tv and film – she does it all!!

FILMMAKERS:

@mking2008 - “Professional CG guy. Amateur painter, writer.” – PRO CG guy indeed. My talented brother has worked for Pixar, Disney Animation and now ILM. He’s helped me many a time remove a camera reflection and other non-glamorous tasks. He’s definitely the man.

@zakforsman – “filmmaker of HEART OF NOW and ELOQUENT GRAFFITI” – a very talented LA-based filmmaker who is part of the DIY Filmmaking movement and curator of CINEFIST. Very much on the forefront of what and how to create and market your indie film. One to watch out for!

@gregorybayne - “Maker of film & media. Junkie for the internet machine. Lover of the political intrigue. Father of a very rad daughter.” – filmmaker with intelligent and insightful posts about the current state of film. He has some very interesting projects of his own that I can’t wait to see as well

@waterholemovie – “A film featuring Patrick J. Adams and Rebecca Mozo about love and friendship soaked in alcohol.” – fellow filmmaking supporters who are paving their own way, sharing lessons learned and forging ahead with their projects

@kingisafink - “Independent Filmmaking / Screenwriting Duo” - don’t let that bio fool you. They are so much more than that. Talented writers and up & coming filmmakers who are developing their first feature film. Huge supporters in the indie film community. Their films from the Idville Collection is hitting the festival circuit which I can’t wait to see! (An @openindie participant)

@Philontilt – “Filmmaker. Organizer of EgoFest Short Film Festival. Connoisseur of cool.” Big supporter of and lover of films. I’ve only heard good things EgoFest about which has programmed a film from @kingisafink. Always has something interesting to say.

@TiltTheMovie – “A feature-length dramatic thriller about a father, a daughter, tragedy, and revenge. Tweets about our movie making adventure.” — a feature film which ran a successful and ingenious Kickstarter campaign

@Trigonis – “I’m a published poet and traveling professor who dabbles his hand in the world of indie filmmaking for kicks” - a fellow NY filmmaker who has been a huge cheerleader for indie film projects and offers some cool daily insights

@angelobell – “Screenwriter/Filmmaker/Blogger/Seeker of Inner Peace. Creator of web series RESURRECTION OF SERIOUS ROGERS – http://ow.ly/QAR4, and BROKEN HEARTS CLUB” – incredibly active and insightful filmmaker

@milesmaker – “A story author, motion picture auteur and cross-platform distributor whose dynamic media ventures converge mobile, social and real-time interactions.” – forward thinking and intelligent filmmaker with inspiring and honest thoughts

@circlesoffire – “Another member of the mobile creative working class, dreaming big and envisioning a more just and liberated world through words, images and actions.” - Emily quickly got on my radar with her selfless generosity and resourcefulness.  She works in the industry and has several projects in the works that I’m anxious to check out — lately she has been tireless in her live tweets at many industry events/seminars which has been invaluable

@suddendeath2009 - “USC thesis musical-comedy short from Adam Hall filmed in LA. Sudden Death! will be completed June 2010 & heading to film festivals this fall. We’re funny a lot.” – another indie musical – enough said

@PhilipBloom – “Cinematographer, Filmmaker, Blogger etc…” – huge resource for all your HDSLR needs – including reviews/tests/etc — very interactive with his followers.

@dannylaceyfilm – “Entrepreneur and film maker. I twitter about film, business and life. I want to make movies and believe I have the ideas to do just that, join me on my journey!” - a very supportive filmmaker in the midst of his own fundraising campaign for his next project.  Very innovative in his methods to reach out and promote that he’s seeking help

@olilewington - “Multi-hyphenate filmmaker, writer, editor & script reader – transplant recipient (two new lungs).” – a great indie supporter from across the pond who dabbles in the documentary realm

@MikeMerell - “Independent Filmmaker, Director, Writer, CGI Animator, Music Producer, Father, Husband, Dreamer, in no particular order.” – filmmaker willing to share his learnings and not afraid to ask questions — huge supporter of others and their endeavors

@corrietweets – “traveling video producer and adventure seeker” – a great supporter of independent film, the people behind them and an all around cool girl

@lmcnelly – “Filmmaker behind BLANC DE BLANC, GRAVIDA, and Indies for Indies. Too melancholy for his own good.” – pioneering filmmaker who attempted to curate a film screening series @indiesforindies in Pittsburg.  I admire him for trying to create and grow an indie film community while supporting his fellow filmmakers.

@philseneker - “Filmmaker, Video Producer, Screenwriter, Photographer. Lover of Authenticity in Film, HD, Writing AND Humans. I prefer to live in the present” – a huge champion of getting your film project out to his network who also happens to run a production house in one of my favorite cities

@EitherOrFilms -”Writer, Director of Marketing/Media, Either/Or Films, which produced THE SENSATION OF SIGHT with David Strathairn; in production now with SOMEPLACE LIKE AMERICA” – huge supporter of indie films. Always sharing first-hand knowledge as well as everyone’s film projects to her vast network

@zaffi – “Writer, Editor, Director, Photographer, Gamer, Blogger, Surrealist…all around neo-digital internet filmmaker” – filmmaker who’s always got something to say and is very connected to all things media

@dpalain – “Filmmaker, Screenwriter. I immerse myself in a world of stroboscopical magic and daydreaming still gets me in trouble.” – passionate DP and collaborator with @Trigonis

@GetStuck – “Struggling Indie Filmmaker/Co-Host of www.filmsnobbery.com/live every Tuesday @ 10 PM EST/NY Editor of www.wearemoviegeeks.com“ – an emerging filmmaker with a new feature film in the works. A huge supporter of indie filmmakers.

@MattOfAllMedia – “Recent Ithaca College graduate. Freelance Videographer / Editor. Independent Filmmaker.” - a super nice filmmaker who’s doing it all on his own out in Jersey

@Fearmakers – (no bio) – an independent film production company who hired me to direct the horror/thriller DISMAL (which was purchased by SHOWTIME, TIME/WARNER and COMCAST On-Demand, a few Asian territories and Germany. Look for the DVD to hit the states in 2010). Their micro-budget division Strange Stuff Productions hired me to direct their zombie action/comedy DEATH OF THE DEAD – also coming in 2010.

@NoRestrictions – “Hi, I’m John Paul Rice, president of No Restrictions Entertainment, a partnership with Latino filmmaker Edgar Michael Bravo.” – I think the best thing I can say about John Paul Rice is that I’d be honored if he produced one of my projects. He’s that good. Saavy. Intelligent. And a world class marketer. Not sure if he had a hand in finding the actress Kelly-Ann Tursi, but kudos to him if he did. She is going places.

@indiemoviemaker – “filmmaker, actor. Currently distributing my feature film Mission X. NOW ON DVD!” - want to see an independent filmmaker who is paving his own way? Look no further and visit David’s website to see how he’s doing it! A very active and supportive filmmaker.

@tylerweaver – “Perpetually balancing my multi (hyphenated) personailties. Filmmaker. TV Critic. Non Profit Exec. The dog’s human.” — A filmmaker who has released a new doc GATHER ‘ROUND THE MIC available online. Always has something interesting to say on his website – and a champion of sharing everyone’s film project updates

@pattyfantasia – “Dir of Mktg, Nevada Film Alliance , Co-Producer Accused, Writer – Las Vegas Round The Clock” – indie film proponent and widely recognized in the community as truly trying to help others with frequent news updates and retweets

@PrincetonHolt – “Producer and CEO of One Way or Another Productions” – a NY-based film guru who has curated a group of talented fillmmakers who are on the brink of breaking out. I haven’t met him yet but plan to soon.

@damiancalvo – “Director, Cinematographer of the film INDEPENDENTLY BLUE” – a NY-based filmmaker who I connected with via Twitter. Check out his film project INDEPENDENTLY BLUE and watch out for it! He supported my film NEW YORK LATELY at the Big Apple FIlm Festival this year by going there even when I couldn’t attend…that’s how he rolls!!

INDIE FILM SITES & SUPPORTERS:

@FilmCourage – “Film Interviews that inspire and educate. Listen every Sunday at 12pm PST on LA Talk Radio.com. Show is also available on iTunes. Subscribe today!” — The radio talk-show that @davidbranin founded with Karen Worden. Amazing duo who help other filmmakers share their work and learn from each other. Listen to this great show!

@cinefist - “curation and distribution for an art house revolution.” – a revolutionary and inspiring film screening series that is both curator and distributor of arthouse films. Smart and innovative. Most of all it seems like the screenings will be fun! I hope to be in Los Angeles to catch them some time!

@Andrew_James - “Like a marshmallow… sweet and soft.“ – helps run the site @rowthree – a critic and lover of indie films.

@MireilleM – “A damsel … that can hold her own.” – huge supporter of indie films on her website “The Entertainment Corner” – an amazing woman

@movieangel – “Teacher of sports & arts.Indie films are my passion!” – her bio says it all.  Tremendous lover and support of indie films and the people behind them

@shericand – “marketing and publicity consultant for low budget indie films” – amazing supporter and active participant in the indie film community

@FirstGlanceFilm - “FirstGlance is the longest running indie film fest in Philly and Hollywood. We are Philadelphia’s Independent Film Festival since 1996! #fgff” – a festival that is truly connecting with its filmmakers and is very forward-thinking in its approach to festivals in the new decade

@bjtucker – “Film Critic, Movie Addict, Author & BTR Radio Host” – a huge movie fan and radio host – I appeared on her show on Tues (March 16th) to talk about our love for musicals and my film HOW DO YOU WRITE A JOE SCHERMANN SONG

@Raindance_Fest - “Independent film festival since 1993, cutting edge film training and founder of the British Independent Film Awards” - a prestigious festival — but beyond that they offer daily advice/updates on the current state of indie film

@rowthree – “Where movies are more than just $100 million productions.” — just from the bio you know what type of site they run. Great coverage with very knowledgeable film writers/lovers. Love the site because much of its content it NOT just a rehash of the typical Hollywood fare that most other sites recycle. Huge supporters of mine.

@FilmSnobbery – “We help independent filmmakers promote their work and find their audience!” – Nic who runs the site has something really good going on at his site. First off he knows film and what goes behind it to make it work. His knowledge lends a good credibility when you listen to his live shows which are absolutely entertaining and informative. He often has guests appear on the show while you can interact via the messenger board. It’s fun and you get to see him argue with @getstuck a lot about things.

@Eumagine – “Filmmakers Community, Producer, EUMAGINE TV, Television with the mouse on the map” – if you’re reading this and are a filmmaker on Twitter you probably know Wolfgang already. One of the best supporters and cheerleaders for you and your film. He’s probably assisted in getting you a good amount of followers and exposure to parts of the world you never imagined. Visit his website to check out what he’s all about and how’s he spreading the work of filmmakers around the globe.

@FlywayFilmFest – “The 2nd Annual Flyway Film Festival” – hopefully next year it will read “3rd Annual” – I couldn’t have had a beter experience at a festival. Very intimate. I had time to actually meet the other filmmakers and make a lasting connection. Great programming in a quaint town where they love their filmmakers.

@jenmovies – “Radio/internet/print/podcast film critic with geek tendencies. Read my blog?” – my new Ozzie friend from Down Under. Her wonderful blog has provided much entertainment for me in the wee hours. Seriously, go, read, smile. I only hope I can deliver my films to her in person to make the trip!

@CORKY242 – “Trying to support independent film.Mother of #IFFF (Indie Film Follow Friday) and #FFF (Film Follow Friday).” – this woman amazes me with how much effort she puts out to share the work of filmmakers with everyone. Always on the rewteet for your project and others. Selfless and devoted. You could not ask for anyone better to be on your side. Check out her site and see what I mean.

FILM INDUSTRY TRAILBLAZERS:

@bnewman01 – “Film person in NYC” - indeed….and then some.

@workbook – “Supporting open creativity” - Visit their website to learn more details about this amazing initiative. They have been involved in pioneering the From Here to Awesome festival and roving conference DIY Days (which provides insight into the process of funding, creating, distributing and sustaining as a creator of media (film, games, music, design, software). I am part of the NEW BREED which is a component of this creative endeavor.

@openindie – “We want open values for film distribution. We are OpenIndie.” — a fascinating new film movement created just now for the independent filmmaker to share his/her work with others. The strategy includes using the networks of the filmmaker to build interest and help curate screenings in the areas where their film is in demand. Keep watching their site for updates. My film WHAT’S UP LOVELY is a part of this and I’m very excited. If you are a filmmaker and a part of OpenIndie, contact me so I can start a list.

@TedHope – “This is that filmmaker producer currently filming SUPER.” – a huge indie film producer with an impressive pedigree. He is trying to forge his way into the ever evolving market and is sharing his thoughts with everyone. Not to be missed.

@lanceweiler – “story architect of film, tv and games – an all around culture hacker www.lanceweiler.com“ – He is a critically acclaimed award winning writer/director and recognized as a pioneer because of the way he makes and distributes his work. Always fascinating to hear about his strategies and where he thinks the industry is going — and how to sustain a career in it.

ACTORS:

@meganrayemanzi – “Megan is an actress who spends her time off playing Top Chef in the kitchen, doing yoga in Union Square, and jumping in the front row for local rock bands.” - Megs is someone who I’ve been dying to work with but the right project hasn’t come up yet. Seriously talented. So serious that her latest short film “TUB” is playing at Sundance this year. But I’m not jealous….not in the least. Just need to work with her before everyone else does. Here’s her website

@Heathertoc – “I love my unpredictable and exciting life as a working actor in LA! Visit my website for more! www.HeatherTocquigny.com ” - LA-based actress I’ve heard only great things about. Very supportive and I hope to collaborate on something with her sooner than later.

@ErinCronican – “Actor & Career Coach – Helpful hints, inspiring tidbits, and a little bit of love for actors – www.erincronican.com or www.theactorsenterprise.org“ – a NY mover and shaker – great voice and knows how to use it. Another one I need to find a project to work with.

@TheresaFowler – “Bite me.” – her bio says it all. Feisty and full of energy. Worked with her briefly on a film project but know she has great things to come.

@DarylRay – “www.darylraycarliles.com“ — actor and dancer…lover not a fighter. Met him a few years ago when I arrived in NY and his selfless energy to the arts and his network of friends is amazing.

SCREENWRITERS:

@bfogle75 – “I teach English, write stories, and make a mean Old Fashioned.” – a good friend and aspiring screenwriter with amazing ideas – hope to put a project together with him sooner than later

@DreamsGrafter – “Screenwriter, Scriptreader, Blogger & all-round DreamsGrafter (trying to keep the spambots out – not you!)” – huge indie film supporter and runs a great blog sharing her experiences of an aspiring screenwriter!

@KageyNYC – “Screenwriting student @TheNewSchool. Developing a short film & a feature-length script. (Don’t be shy re: protected tweets – it’s to keep out bots, not you!)” – Kim is an aspiring screenwriter whose work I can’t wait to see on the screen — another huge supporter of mine that I am very thankful for. And she attended NEW YORK LATELY at the Big Apple Film Festival!!

@CriticalTodd – “Writer, web monkey, and general man about town.” – a great supporter of indie films. Always has something interesting to say and share.

@AmyLaurel - “I am a Screen / Novel Writer and Actress. Hobbies: fencing, martial arts, computers and anything outdoors. I’m a free spirit!” – Actress and writer – who is in the process of having one of her screenplays produced, and this will be the first time her work has been made into a film. Can’t wait to see it! She’s constantly writing writing writing — which is good for a screenwriter. Check out her site for more info.

MUSICIANS:

@kevinrieplmusic – “composer for film & video games. Creds Include Gears of War 1&2, Clemency, New Hope Manor, Crackdown2, Aliens:Colonial Marines www.kevinriepl.com” – composer extraordinaire and has shown nothing but huge support for indie films (and me). You can tell this guy loves movies

MOVIE ADDICT HEADQUARTERS Interview (3/16 show)

Here is my interview with the sweet Betty Jo Tucker I did to mainly discuss HOW DO YOU WRITE A JOE SCHREMANN SONG and its Kickstarter campaign.  We talk about the development of the project, its actors and our shared passion for films.  I had a great time.

I also asked how I could offer a verbal “hello and thanks” to my wonderful Twitter friends and supporters who planned to listen live to the show….and they asked me to use the word “pie” during the interview at some point.  You can see how I did around the 23:40 mark.

Listen to Betty Jo Tucker on Blog Talk Radio

My Most Anticipated — Truly Indie — Films of 2010 (Vol. 1)

A running list that I’ll update from time to time as things catch my eye.  I hope I can watch these at special event screenings so I can meet the filmmakers.

But I’m all about getting these on DVD (yes, I’m one of the few that likes to collect them still).

HEART OF NOW - dir. Zak Forsman
EVERYONE SAYS I LOOK JUST LIKE HER – dir. Ryan Balas
PERSON OF INTEREST – dir. Gregory Baynes
SOMEWHERE BETWEEN HERE AND NOW – dir. Olivier Boonjing
GOLDEN EARRINGS – dir. Marion Kerr
COLD WEATHER – dir. Aaron Katz

HEART OF NOW – a film by SABI – TRAILER from Sabi Pictures on Vimeo.

Everyone Says I Look Just Like Her TEASER from Ryan Balas on Vimeo.

Person of Interest-Trailer from Gregory Bayne on Vimeo.

“somewhere between here and now” TRAILER from another state of mind films on Vimeo.

Life of a DIY Filmmaker

Heading into the final mixing stage of WHAT’S UP LOVELY – here’s what I have to deal with….

What my day was like today in about 45 secs….

Life of a DIY FILMMAKER from Gary King on Vimeo.

Appearing Live on Movie Addict Headquarters: Tues (3/16)

I’ll be appearing on BlogTalk radio’s MOVIE ADDICT HEADQUARTERS live on Tues (March 16th) at 4pm (EST) speaking with Betty Jo Tucker to discuss HOW DO YOU WRITE A JOE SCHERMANN SONG among other projects.  I’m told that SINGING IN THE RAIN is Betty Jo’s favorite film so I have no doubt that we’ll hit it off!

Date: Tues (March 16th)
Time: 3pm (CST)/ 4pm (EST)
Website: www.blogtalkradio.com/movieaddictheadquarters

I’m told that During the live 45-minute show, listeners are invited to call in and to participate in a chat, so please pass this information along to anyone you think would be interested.

I’m looking forward to talking with Betty Jo about movies, musicals, the Kickstarter campaign — and hopefully connect with other film lovers out there.  It sounds like a fun time.  Hope you can tune in!

The Kickstarter Effect

THE KICKSTARTER EFFECT (originally posted at multi-hyphenate on Feb 25th, 2010)

by Gary King.  Follow me on Twitter.

Have you made — or ever wanted to make a feature film?  How far did you (or would you) go in order to get it done?

One of the most common questions I get asked is how did I finance my feature films NEW YORK LATELY and WHAT’S UP LOVELY.   While there is not one true approach, the answer always makes me reflect on how crazy I possibly am in being a filmmaker.

Would you be willing to quit your well-paying corporate day job and move to New York City?  Would you be willing to cash out your 401K to finance your first feature film?  Would you be willing to spend over an entire year (or longer) seeing a project through from start to finish?  If your answer is “yes” to those questions, then put on this straight jacket my friend and please join me in my padded cell.

Unfortunately for most of us, we are not lucky enough to self-finance every single film project (nor would some want to).  So in order to make the films we want, we must seek financing from an outside source.  In today’s climate, even major studios are having trouble funding pictures unless the project is an established franchise or already has a built-in audience.  They take safer risks, whereas we indie filmmakers are still the true risk takers.  But where does that leave us if we know that our film fits into more of a niche and is not intended for the masses at the cineplex?  Thankfully filmmakers like this are still getting movies made and it’s inspiring to see.  How are they managing to do it?  The answer is crowdfunding.

Crowd-whata-who?  That’s the response I usually get from people who are not familiar with the term.

According to Wikipedia:
“Crowdfunding describes the collective cooperation, attention and trust by people who network and pool their money together, usually via the Internet, in order to support efforts initiated by other people or organizations.”

So basically we’ve seen this in action already for various causes (typically political or humanitarian campaigns) — but never has it been so popular with the indie film community until recently.

Right now, there are two prevalent services (IndieGoGo and Kickstarter) that assist filmmakers with crowdfunding.  Both lead to the same question people ask over and over again (including myself): which one?

IndieGoGo and Kickstarter have the same intentions, but just different executions.   I suggest researching both to see which fits your needs.  But my initial response is “why not both?”  In fact, I plan to use both sites eventually.

However, for my indie film musical HOW DO YOU WRITE A JOE SCHERMANN SONG I chose Kickstarter for two main reasons.  The first is what has been coined the “Kickstarter Effect” where the implemented deadline gives a sense of urgency around the project and utilizes game theory to create an almost gambling atmosphere for people to generate interest and ideally financial contributions.  And secondly the basic layout of the website design gave me more flexibility in terms of how I wanted to present the information about the film.

“SCHERMANN SONG” centers around the theater and Broadway realm of New York City.  It deals with the struggle of artistic integrity vs. doing what others want you do to in order to be successful and examines how careers can affect personal relationships through unspoken competition.  And the fun part is the song and dance numbers will be a mixture of both reality and fantasy sequences.

Teaching at BREAKTHROUGH STUDIOS (NYC) on 3/29

I’ll be guest teaching at BREAKTHROUGH STUDIOS on Monday (March 29th) at 7pm.

It should be another fun time getting to meet New York actors and work through some scenes together.  I’m always excited to meet new talent and this has been a great way to do that.

Here’s more information about the class:
“This Exciting night with this working filmmaker will walk you through all the ins and outs of getting started in the indie film world. They will cover the roles played by the actors, crew and technicians. He is currently looking for all types and ethnicities for his next film.

Not to be missed!”

Visit the website to sign up