Screen Test for upcoming Personal Project

Ok, so I got bit by the bug. I’m officially working on a project of my own and starting to do some screen tests as I develop the characters. Who would have thought that I would be doing something like this. It is a very interesting process with regards to the writing and I use a free program called Celtx for writing the script. To me it’s easy and very user friendly and best of all for us DIY/Independent Filmmakers, it’s FREE and for some advance features and options you will have to pay a nominal fee but it’s still worth in my opinion. I’ve been involved with several independent projects that has helped me to understand some of the basic fundamentals needed to make a film work and make the process of making a film a little less strenuous as if that is entirely possible.  Watching some of the behind the scenes on some of my favorite movies leads me to believe that even multimillion dollar films have issues that can drive you to drink!

There are lots of areas to cover while doing a film and some things you really can’t skimp on, while others if you do your research right, you’ll be able to come with some surprisingly effective substituions. So planning and planning and oh did I mention PLANNING is the key to making your project successful!  That’s why I chose to take my time and get it right. Sets, wardrobe, actors/actresses, extras you name it. Man, what an undertaking. You’ve got to be crazy for wanting to do a movie. Guess I’m crazy!

I’m eagerly waiting for the November 3rd and Canon’s big announcement so that the rumor mills can stop churning out gossip. Also as I’m getting more acclimated to my own gear I’m able to better get myself ready for upcoming film/video projects. I realize it’s not about how much stuff you have or even how expensive your stuff is, you need to know your stuff to get the best out of it, regardless of what it is.

Well let me stop blabbing and get to the fun! Here is my screen test of one of the characters of my movie…I’m still developing the powers and working it all out in After Effects and here is my first attempt. Also check out my new StewArt Studios film bumper! Enjoy!

Atlanta Film Studio in Paulding, GA/Mark SQuared Studios in Clarkston, GA

Ok so everyone has been hearing about Georgia’s great tax credits to filmmakers. A lot of Hollywood studios have been relocating or opening divisions here in Georgia. An enterprising county decided to get in on some of the 1.5 Billion in film industry money that was spent in Georgia in the past few years. Smart move. Although it still leaves out the Independent Filmmakers but it’s great for the Hollywood class!

If you don’t know already, Mark SQuared is a Resource and Production Studio that provides INDEPENDENT MEDIA MAKERS with talent, equipment, resources, and knowledge to UnBox their creative visions. They are there to assist in the production process of short films, stage plays, and special event showcases to full feature movies. Their resource center is where you can meet and work with talented actors, directors, musicians, designers, stylist, film crews, and photographers all in one central location. They provide an exclusive studio rental space which includes CYC wall, green screen area, rehearsal/casting call room, and photography area. Becoming a member will allow you certain discounts and benefits of the facility.

I personally had a great experience with Mark SQuared while doing a music video project and they made my some what chaotic situation more bearable.  They are conscientious, patient and they understand the business.  Headed by Karlotta Washington, DreQuan Medallion and Tiffany Roberts they are expanding, growing to meet the needs of the independent media makers market and are also poised to be an integral part of Georgia’s growing media creative community. So if you are an out of the box thinker or even an in the box thinker, Mark SQuared is where you need to be, to Unbox Your Creativity!

My name is Michael Stewart and I approve this message!

Self-Distribution – A Filmmakers guide to making money with your films

So you got this smash film and now what do you do with it. I’m personally not near in producing my own film yet but I want to know what my outlets are. My roots are in the music business and we also have the same issues. Distribution…the elusive holy grail. You hear it all the time, “once we get distribution, we’re set” or better yet, “trying to get distribution is a b*tch”. Most distributors aren’t looking at you unless you are doing something big on your own. Which if you think about it correctly, then you don’t REALLY NEED THEM. With how technology is now, all you need is a little time and a plan to get things out. Jon Reiss and Sherri Candler present a creative way on how to get your films out without “selling” your soul!

This is a must read for independent filmmakers that are wondering what to do next with their projects, besides entering them in film festivals and like. If you get and get it now, it’s FREE in most formats except paperback until October 1st, 2011 and after that will be available for $4.99 which is still awesome for this kind of information, definitely this is a must have in your arsenal!

Hopefully this will inspire you as it has inspired me!

Check out their website
http://sellingyourfilm.com/

Ryan Connolly & Film Riot have done it again…

First of all, let me start by saying these guys really rock! They have been teaching indie filmmakers, tips and tricks for a while now and they have delivered a wonderful action packed short called “Losses”.  Josh really stretched his acting skills be portraying a killer! It was just so cool to see.  You would expect the normal Film Riot humor that they have been known for and I’ve have so grown to love, but it has a certain Bourne Identity/Jason Statham(ish) feel! I love the color grading and the lighting! The feel was wonderful.  And I know a lot people commented on the shakiness of some of the scenes. Yes maybe in some places it was a little too much but it gave the film movement and almost an urgency. So without further adieu here is “LOSSES” – It is suggested that you watch this FULL SCREEN and choose Original to see it in it’s full 2k glory!

CheesyCam creates Pico Flex Table Dolly

I must say I watch Emm on Cheesycam.com to get the updates on a lot of things. I made my first Fig Rig from his design, got my battery grip and even my circular LED (camp light). Also he’s helped with having me avoid disaster with my “almost purchase” of the $60 Matte Box. So when I saw that he created something new for us independent filmmakers and at a cost point that we would love, I had to post it here! Here is Emm talking about his new baby, the Pico Flex Table Dolly!

I will be putting in an order myself for one of these babies! It looks to be a whole lot of fun!

Check out his site http://www.cheesycam.com for more insights, suggestions and tips!

Stay TUNED!!