Todd Maki Scoring 'A Dog for Christmas'
Great reviews for 'Horse Camp'
http://twoclassychics.com/2015/02/movie-review-horse-camp/
http://acedmagazine.com/horse-camp-finding-friendship/
http://acedmagazine.com/horse-camp-finding-friendship/
'Fear The Crooked Corpse' - Film Premiere & Halloween Party
Grand Rapids, MI - October 27th 2013 - Wealthy Theatre plays host to a truly evil evening of entertainment with the world premiere of the fright-filled feature film FEAR THE CROOKED CORPSE! In honor of this special, one-time event the dastardly director of this devious motion picture will serve up Grand Rapids' most horrific Halloween Party. Come one, come all in your most ghoulish get-ups, best costume wins a fantastic prize (!), among other classic games such as bob for (poison) apples, pin the tail on the wolf-man and a 50/50 raffle... of DREAD! Then, grab a seat and experience your nightmare realized upon the silver screen as A Picture Show Film Co. and Michigan Filmmaker Aaron Herman Russman proudly present a mind-bending odyssey through the realm of insanity: FEAR THE CROOKED CORPSE!
WHO: Grand Rapids Filmmaker Aaron Herman Russman
WHAT: Locally-Produced Horror Film Premiere / Halloween Party
WHERE: Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506
WHEN: Sunday, October 27th 2013 - 6pm: Halloween Party, 8 - 10pm: Film Premiere
TICKETS: $10 each at the box-office (includes party and premiere). Reserving ticketsrecommended:www.wealthytheatre.org/crookedcorpse or by phone: 616.459.4788 ext. 131
In the spirit of the 70's Hammer Films to the "slasher" films of the 80's, Fear the Crooked Corpse relentlessly challenges the audiences' perception of reality in its telling of a dubious revenge tale. Edgar, a meek, honest man seeks retribution for his daughter's murder, yet the killer takes his own life. Left without means to an end, Edgar staggers through dreams and faulty memories, becoming a force of terror upon the undeserving... or are they? You will question everything, for nothing is what it seems.
Aaron Russman has written, produced and directed projects at A Picture Show Film Company for over 15 years. His work includes narrative short films, documentaries, reality and scripted television pilots and music videos. In August of 2011 he released his debut feature film, Lost in the Future to a packed crowd at the Wealthy Theatre in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
WHO: Grand Rapids Filmmaker Aaron Herman Russman
WHAT: Locally-Produced Horror Film Premiere / Halloween Party
WHERE: Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506
WHEN: Sunday, October 27th 2013 - 6pm: Halloween Party, 8 - 10pm: Film Premiere
TICKETS: $10 each at the box-office (includes party and premiere). Reserving ticketsrecommended:www.wealthytheatre.org/crookedcorpse or by phone: 616.459.4788 ext. 131
In the spirit of the 70's Hammer Films to the "slasher" films of the 80's, Fear the Crooked Corpse relentlessly challenges the audiences' perception of reality in its telling of a dubious revenge tale. Edgar, a meek, honest man seeks retribution for his daughter's murder, yet the killer takes his own life. Left without means to an end, Edgar staggers through dreams and faulty memories, becoming a force of terror upon the undeserving... or are they? You will question everything, for nothing is what it seems.
Aaron Russman has written, produced and directed projects at A Picture Show Film Company for over 15 years. His work includes narrative short films, documentaries, reality and scripted television pilots and music videos. In August of 2011 he released his debut feature film, Lost in the Future to a packed crowd at the Wealthy Theatre in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Chiller Thriller
Chiller Thriller
Rate it
By Rick Coates
Jonathan Rand novel headed for the big screen
Author Jonathan Rand launched his popular children book series “Michigan Chillers” and “American Chillers” 13 years ago. There is speculation that Rand has sold close to two million books; he jokes that he has “lost count.” Regardless, the former radio personality has created a successful writing career and is a sought-after speaker. Now Rand is in the movie business.
His 2002 novel, “Bestseller,” written under the name Christopher Knight, has been converted to a screenplay and filming of the movie is currently happening around Northern Michigan.
The film stars Lana Wood, the younger sister of Natalie Wood. Lana is best known for her work at the age of 9 in John Ford’s western classic “The Searchers,” playing opposite John Wayne and Natalie Wood. She was also in the 1971 James Bond film “Diamonds Are Forever,” in which she played Plenty O’Toole opposite Sean Connery.
“I love Michigan, the story is great and I’m thrilled to be joining the cast,” Wood said in a release.
CAST & CREW
Joining Wood are Hollywood veterans Taylor Nichols, Terrance Knox, Melissa Anschutz, DJ Perry as well as Ralph Lister and Petoskey native Remi Dunkel. Scott Castelein, owner of Lake Street Media in Petoskey is director of photography.
Christina Rohn of Lake Street Media and the new director of “Bestseller” is excited to welcome Wood, Nichols and Knox to the cast.
“We are so honored and humbled to have these seasoned actors joining our project,” said Rohn. “The level of talent we have accumulated thus far is phenomenal and I’m confident in the art we will create together. Filming will continue in the Petoskey area through November 2 and the film should be released sometime next year.”
Rand, whose real name is Christopher Wright (he uses his radio name Knight for his adult-themed novels), was a little shocked when his out-of-print book, “Bestseller,” resurfaced for a movie project.
“I am thrilled with the screenplay and excited how this project has evolved into a full Hollywood production,” said Wright. “Originally it was going to be much smaller scale, but it is really cool to have this project sanctioned by the Michigan Film Commission.”
Wright adds that the plot involves a disgruntled writer.
“I went to this U.P. cabin for two weeks to draw inspiration to write this book, so I am glad that filming is taking place in Northern Michigan,” he said. “The book is about Chicago literary agent, Anne Harper, who vacations at a cabin in the Upper Peninsula. She receives this manuscript from a wannabe author who she has rejected several times before. He ends up stalking her in the U.P., and for the rest of the story you will need to read the book or see the film next year.”
Wright has re-released “Bestseller,” and also had a cameo role in the film.
“I did radio for years and commercial voiceovers but have never acted before. It is amazing how long it takes to create a two-minute scene in the film. I am not sure what I did was really acting. I think I said 14 words. But to be a part of the whole process is a lot of fun.”
CHILLERMANIA
Wright, who is serving as the executive producer of the project, is not on the set everyday. He is in high demand at bookstores, schools and libraries during this Halloween and holiday season.
“Fortunately, I get to stick close to home, pretty much just Michigan this time of the year,” he said. “Plus, I like to poke into my store, Chillermania, as often as possible.”
Chillermania is located in Indian River right off of I-75 one mile south of exit 313. The store has become a popular year-round tourist destination. Wright also hosts several Author Quest camps for young writers and is currently working on multiple book projects. He plans to have a red carpet style premier in Northern Michigan of “Bestseller” when it is released next year.
For more information on Wright and his books, Author Quest, store location, and his upcoming film check out americanchillers. com.
Rate it
By Rick Coates
Jonathan Rand novel headed for the big screen
Author Jonathan Rand launched his popular children book series “Michigan Chillers” and “American Chillers” 13 years ago. There is speculation that Rand has sold close to two million books; he jokes that he has “lost count.” Regardless, the former radio personality has created a successful writing career and is a sought-after speaker. Now Rand is in the movie business.
His 2002 novel, “Bestseller,” written under the name Christopher Knight, has been converted to a screenplay and filming of the movie is currently happening around Northern Michigan.
The film stars Lana Wood, the younger sister of Natalie Wood. Lana is best known for her work at the age of 9 in John Ford’s western classic “The Searchers,” playing opposite John Wayne and Natalie Wood. She was also in the 1971 James Bond film “Diamonds Are Forever,” in which she played Plenty O’Toole opposite Sean Connery.
“I love Michigan, the story is great and I’m thrilled to be joining the cast,” Wood said in a release.
CAST & CREW
Joining Wood are Hollywood veterans Taylor Nichols, Terrance Knox, Melissa Anschutz, DJ Perry as well as Ralph Lister and Petoskey native Remi Dunkel. Scott Castelein, owner of Lake Street Media in Petoskey is director of photography.
Christina Rohn of Lake Street Media and the new director of “Bestseller” is excited to welcome Wood, Nichols and Knox to the cast.
“We are so honored and humbled to have these seasoned actors joining our project,” said Rohn. “The level of talent we have accumulated thus far is phenomenal and I’m confident in the art we will create together. Filming will continue in the Petoskey area through November 2 and the film should be released sometime next year.”
Rand, whose real name is Christopher Wright (he uses his radio name Knight for his adult-themed novels), was a little shocked when his out-of-print book, “Bestseller,” resurfaced for a movie project.
“I am thrilled with the screenplay and excited how this project has evolved into a full Hollywood production,” said Wright. “Originally it was going to be much smaller scale, but it is really cool to have this project sanctioned by the Michigan Film Commission.”
Wright adds that the plot involves a disgruntled writer.
“I went to this U.P. cabin for two weeks to draw inspiration to write this book, so I am glad that filming is taking place in Northern Michigan,” he said. “The book is about Chicago literary agent, Anne Harper, who vacations at a cabin in the Upper Peninsula. She receives this manuscript from a wannabe author who she has rejected several times before. He ends up stalking her in the U.P., and for the rest of the story you will need to read the book or see the film next year.”
Wright has re-released “Bestseller,” and also had a cameo role in the film.
“I did radio for years and commercial voiceovers but have never acted before. It is amazing how long it takes to create a two-minute scene in the film. I am not sure what I did was really acting. I think I said 14 words. But to be a part of the whole process is a lot of fun.”
CHILLERMANIA
Wright, who is serving as the executive producer of the project, is not on the set everyday. He is in high demand at bookstores, schools and libraries during this Halloween and holiday season.
“Fortunately, I get to stick close to home, pretty much just Michigan this time of the year,” he said. “Plus, I like to poke into my store, Chillermania, as often as possible.”
Chillermania is located in Indian River right off of I-75 one mile south of exit 313. The store has become a popular year-round tourist destination. Wright also hosts several Author Quest camps for young writers and is currently working on multiple book projects. He plans to have a red carpet style premier in Northern Michigan of “Bestseller” when it is released next year.
For more information on Wright and his books, Author Quest, store location, and his upcoming film check out americanchillers. com.
"Bestseller" Approved for Michigan Film Incentives
http://worldnewsviews.com/2013/07/14/bestseller-approved-for-michigan-film-incentives/LANSING (WWJ) – The Michigan Film Office announced the feature film Bestseller has been approved for a film incentive from the state.
The psychological thriller, based on the novel by Michigan author Christopher Knight, is expected to film this month in Petoskey and De Tour. The film is set in Michigan's Upper Peninsula on the shores of Lake Huron.
Northern Michigan will be a main character in this exciting project made by Michigan filmmakers, based on a Michigan novel, said Margaret O'Riley, director of the Michigan Film Office. Bestseller will highlight our state's natural beauty and communities while providing opportunities for local crew and support services.
Bestseller was awarded an incentive of $42,431 on $145,350 of projected in-state expenditures. The project is expected to hire 34 Michigan workers with a full time equivalent of one job.
Christopher Wright, who writes under the pseudonym Christopher Knight, will serve as executive producer on the project, with Scott Castelein serving and the producer and director of photography, Ian Croteau directing and Joseph Scott Anthony serving as the unit production manager.
Michigan is one of the most beautiful states and I feel privileged to be able to feature it as the backdrop of our film, Castelein said. This is a passion project for us, and we are extremely excited to get started.
In conjunction with filming, Knight's novel will be re-released, featuring lead actress Melissa Anschutz on the cover art of the novel. The film will also feature corresponding artwork with the novel's cover.
Set in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, this thriller provides a story within a story. The main character is a book publishing agent who goes on an isolated vacation to catch up on some work and R&R. One morning, she finds a manuscript on the porch of her cabin titled “Bestseller.” As she begins to review the manuscript she discovers she is living out the nightmare within it.
In fiscal year 2013, 22 projects have been awarded a total of $33,349,487 of $128,499,622 of approved production expenditures for the year. These projects are expected to create 1,478 Michigan hires with a full time equivalent of 606 jobs.
The Michigan Film Office was created in 1979 to assist and attract incoming production companies and promote the growth of Michigan's own film industry. The Film Office also administers the incentive program for film, television and other digital media production in Michigan. For more on the Michigan Film Office, visit www.MichiganFilmOffice.org.
The psychological thriller, based on the novel by Michigan author Christopher Knight, is expected to film this month in Petoskey and De Tour. The film is set in Michigan's Upper Peninsula on the shores of Lake Huron.
Northern Michigan will be a main character in this exciting project made by Michigan filmmakers, based on a Michigan novel, said Margaret O'Riley, director of the Michigan Film Office. Bestseller will highlight our state's natural beauty and communities while providing opportunities for local crew and support services.
Bestseller was awarded an incentive of $42,431 on $145,350 of projected in-state expenditures. The project is expected to hire 34 Michigan workers with a full time equivalent of one job.
Christopher Wright, who writes under the pseudonym Christopher Knight, will serve as executive producer on the project, with Scott Castelein serving and the producer and director of photography, Ian Croteau directing and Joseph Scott Anthony serving as the unit production manager.
Michigan is one of the most beautiful states and I feel privileged to be able to feature it as the backdrop of our film, Castelein said. This is a passion project for us, and we are extremely excited to get started.
In conjunction with filming, Knight's novel will be re-released, featuring lead actress Melissa Anschutz on the cover art of the novel. The film will also feature corresponding artwork with the novel's cover.
Set in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, this thriller provides a story within a story. The main character is a book publishing agent who goes on an isolated vacation to catch up on some work and R&R. One morning, she finds a manuscript on the porch of her cabin titled “Bestseller.” As she begins to review the manuscript she discovers she is living out the nightmare within it.
In fiscal year 2013, 22 projects have been awarded a total of $33,349,487 of $128,499,622 of approved production expenditures for the year. These projects are expected to create 1,478 Michigan hires with a full time equivalent of 606 jobs.
The Michigan Film Office was created in 1979 to assist and attract incoming production companies and promote the growth of Michigan's own film industry. The Film Office also administers the incentive program for film, television and other digital media production in Michigan. For more on the Michigan Film Office, visit www.MichiganFilmOffice.org.
VILE REVIEWS: CADENCE
Released: 2012
Country: USA
Language: English
Directed by: Courtland J. Tell
Written by: Peter Tell
Starring: Dana Blackstone
Sub-genre: Supernatural
Runtime: 20 minutes
Vile Reviewer: John
n a small, sterile laboratory, Dr. Ellie Ris (Dana Blackstone) has created something elusive and mysterious – something she doesn’t wholly understand, though she thinks she does. And, as of late, the signal doesn’t seem to be responding in the way Ellie had hoped. Something is amiss. And Ellie is struggling with the implications.
Ellie’s existence is socially deprived and lonely, though she is devoted to her work, it’s also her entire life. On and off the clock, her research is all that matters. Her notes, her books, her files – she sleeps and wakes amidst their strewn piles.
After a disappointing and frustrating shift at the lab, Elliereturns to her empty house alone, as is the case each and every night. With only her thoughts and her work to occupy her, certainly this night should be just the same as the last. But something is wrong. It feels like something is there with her, watching. But it can’t be so – that’s absurd. Ellie is used to being in control; her work in the lab is the essence of control, or so she believed. Now something may be out of control... her work may have followed her home, uninvited.
Cadence is a mysterious and ultimately surprising short film. There is little dialog, instead the momentum of the story depends entirely on carefully controlled visuals. Without falling prey to the melodramatic pretense of mundane arthouse cinema, Director Courtland Tell simplifies his approach. He proves that clean, steady framing, careful lighting, and focused, matter-of-fact angles can tell a compelling story much more effectively than erratic, nonsensical quick-cuts and lingering, confused close-ups ever could.
Cadence’s greatest strength, however, lies in Peter Tell's script and its effective transposition to film. On the surface, the story is simple, but what is left to the imagination is what makes Cadence so brilliant. For those viewers that insist on some kind of “reveal” or “pay-off” at the end of their horror movies won’t be let down byCadence – the final moments are indeed terrifying, both visually and auditorally. However, the reason Cadenceachieves those peak levels of fear during its conclusion is because Courtland Tell was exacting and disciplined. Not a shot was wasteful in Cadence – not a frame excessive. And, despite the fact that we spend very little time witnessing Ellie interact with other people, we are still very aware of her personality and who she is. By the end of this 20-minute short, we know Ellie, and we’re afraid forher and with her.
Cadence coming to our attention was a happenstance. And we’re so glad for it. Surprises like this rarely just fall into your lap unsolicited. When they do, though, taking the time to notice them can make all the difference. This film from the Tell Brothers is unlike anything I’ve ever seen... it has all the best hallmarks of the slow-burn, stalking dread horror picture and none of the exhaustive, seen-it-before pandering we’ve become so maddeningly familiar with. In Cadence,Ellie is searching for an answer – always searching, day and night, in sleep and in wakefulness. In the end, she finds her answer, but it’s nothing like what she expected. Don’t you want to know what it is?
Ellie’s existence is socially deprived and lonely, though she is devoted to her work, it’s also her entire life. On and off the clock, her research is all that matters. Her notes, her books, her files – she sleeps and wakes amidst their strewn piles.
After a disappointing and frustrating shift at the lab, Elliereturns to her empty house alone, as is the case each and every night. With only her thoughts and her work to occupy her, certainly this night should be just the same as the last. But something is wrong. It feels like something is there with her, watching. But it can’t be so – that’s absurd. Ellie is used to being in control; her work in the lab is the essence of control, or so she believed. Now something may be out of control... her work may have followed her home, uninvited.
Cadence is a mysterious and ultimately surprising short film. There is little dialog, instead the momentum of the story depends entirely on carefully controlled visuals. Without falling prey to the melodramatic pretense of mundane arthouse cinema, Director Courtland Tell simplifies his approach. He proves that clean, steady framing, careful lighting, and focused, matter-of-fact angles can tell a compelling story much more effectively than erratic, nonsensical quick-cuts and lingering, confused close-ups ever could.
Cadence’s greatest strength, however, lies in Peter Tell's script and its effective transposition to film. On the surface, the story is simple, but what is left to the imagination is what makes Cadence so brilliant. For those viewers that insist on some kind of “reveal” or “pay-off” at the end of their horror movies won’t be let down byCadence – the final moments are indeed terrifying, both visually and auditorally. However, the reason Cadenceachieves those peak levels of fear during its conclusion is because Courtland Tell was exacting and disciplined. Not a shot was wasteful in Cadence – not a frame excessive. And, despite the fact that we spend very little time witnessing Ellie interact with other people, we are still very aware of her personality and who she is. By the end of this 20-minute short, we know Ellie, and we’re afraid forher and with her.
Cadence coming to our attention was a happenstance. And we’re so glad for it. Surprises like this rarely just fall into your lap unsolicited. When they do, though, taking the time to notice them can make all the difference. This film from the Tell Brothers is unlike anything I’ve ever seen... it has all the best hallmarks of the slow-burn, stalking dread horror picture and none of the exhaustive, seen-it-before pandering we’ve become so maddeningly familiar with. In Cadence,Ellie is searching for an answer – always searching, day and night, in sleep and in wakefulness. In the end, she finds her answer, but it’s nothing like what she expected. Don’t you want to know what it is?
Shifting fog, triple-digit weather, ticks: None could stop 'Abduction Day'
http://swmichigan.secondwavemedia.com/features/abductionday1220.aspx
Armed with a creative writing degree from Western Michigan University, a lot of theater experience, and enough passion to set himself the task of making a movie in a year, Bannon Backhus is creatingAbduction Day.
It's the story of a man who has been abducted by aliens on the 15th of every month for his entire life and the way everything unravels when the secret he's been hiding is finally revealed. A science fiction, horror, comedy along the lines of Shaun of the Dead.
"I wanted to do it. I had to do it," says Backhus, who turned 30 this year. "Creative projects like this are what I want to do with my life. At this point in my life I needed to do a project of this scale. Because of that, I wanted the project to succeed or fail in large part based on whether I was up to the task."
The self-taught director quickly points out he didn't do it all on his own, though. One of the enlightening aspects of the project has been connecting with other locals just as passionate about making movies as he is.
"There’s a bigger scene than I had thought," Backhus says. "The people in it are extremely talented and passionate about what they do. There's a lot of talent here both in front and behind the camera."
He started the screenplay in late 2011, finished in the spring of 2012, and moved right into filming. That was possible largely as a result of connections he made through another local film project Bethany Witch, in which he had a small role. Dane Covey, their cinematographer hired on for the same role with Abduction Day.
Finding talent was one of the easier aspects of filming. When Backhus announced auditions he had a good response and actors came from as far away as Detroit seeking spots in the film.
Like Backhus, many of the people in the local film scene come from live theater backgrounds. Abduction Day lead John Kasdorf, who portrays repeat abductee Neil Crumpton, is known for his high energy performances as a member of the improv team Kind of Pretty Women and other local theatrical and musical productions.
The one and only employee of Crumpton Cutting, Neil's lawncare business, is Moulton Howe, played by Dann Systma. Offscreen, he leads Crawlspace Eviction, the annual Kalamazoo Improv Fest, and has acted locally in everything from Shakespeare to television commercials for Modernistic.
Bello Pizzimenti with a musical theater background from WMU portrays Lu Smith, the graduate student assistant to ufologist Dr. Gillian Carter. Dana Blackstone plays Dr. Gillian Carter. (Throughout, the film pays homage to many TV characters of the 1990s, an era when Backhus says it seems like everyone was slightly obsessed with extraterrestrials.)
Behind the scenes, Erin Fields proved invaluable as assistant director, line producer, makeup, wardrobe and holder of the boom mike.
Though Backhus found a large reserve of talent and crew members in and around Kalamazoo, some spots were hard to fill, such as sound mixer. The boom microphone needed was all but impossible to find.
Support came from Matthew Quemada, cinematographer of the local web seriesTransitions, who had offered help if needed. When the sound equipment Backhus needed proved elusive he borrowed the expensive piece of equipment from the man he had met once before for the first weekend of shooting.
"The film community in and around Kalamazoo may be small but it's passionate and supportive. I was totally blown away," he says.
To finance the film, Backhus scrimped and saved for a year. What he didn't anticipate was the need to purchase all the film equipment required for the project. He decided it was better to have equipment of his own when others who had agreed to be part of the project backed out.
The most intense consequence came about when the sound mixer decided a week before filming was to begin that he was going on a cruise instead. The person who had agreed to be a back-up also became unavailable so Backhus borrowed sound equipment and taught himself how to be a sound engineer, wrapping it up at 4 a.m. the morning filming was to begin. Three hours later cameras were rolling.
When faced with such obstacles, why not just put it off for a week?
"Part of it was my own bullheadedness." Backhus says. "I absolutely wanted to have this film completed in by the end of 2012 and I wasn't willing to have it extend into 2013. Delays were not really an option."
There were other considerations. "We were already on a tight schedule because there were so many people involved. There are only so many hours in a day to get this done and it's like a house of cards. If we take out one the whole thing collapses." The filming schedule had to fit around the work weeks of the cast and crew, most of whom had 40 hour a week jobs. "We were limited to filming on weekends, so there were several days of filming till 4 a.m."
Backhus may have learned how to be a director from a book -- specifically, Directing Actors: Creating Memorable Performances for Film and Television, by Judith Weston -- but some of what the film faced might have challenged even an experienced filmmaker. Triple-digit temperatures caused the camera to overheat, one of the main locations in a very rural location was so tick infested they had to stop regularly for tick checks
"There was always someone with a tick starting to crawl up their ankle," he says.
Backhus also learned a lot about the fickle nature of fog. "For a special effect I thought fog would be very easy to use. It is not. The slightest bit of wind and it moves. There were a lot of shots with fog and it got very aggravating for a lot of people in the cast and for me." Every day of shooting was filled with a lot of tiny problems that added up to a lot of stress.
But the first time he went to the cinematograher's house to see the footage the reality of what had been accomplished set in. "It was an amazing experience. As I was seeing that footage it hit me--we're making a film. Seeing it take shape--it was a really cool feeling."
A Kickstarter campaign is under way to pay for post production costs, final editing, music rights, submission fees for various film festivals and some travel expenses for getting to those festivals. "Our tentative plan," Backhus says, "is to submit it to genre film festivals."
Kathy Jennings is the managing editor of Southwest Michigan's Second Wave. She is a freelance writer and editor.
Armed with a creative writing degree from Western Michigan University, a lot of theater experience, and enough passion to set himself the task of making a movie in a year, Bannon Backhus is creatingAbduction Day.
It's the story of a man who has been abducted by aliens on the 15th of every month for his entire life and the way everything unravels when the secret he's been hiding is finally revealed. A science fiction, horror, comedy along the lines of Shaun of the Dead.
"I wanted to do it. I had to do it," says Backhus, who turned 30 this year. "Creative projects like this are what I want to do with my life. At this point in my life I needed to do a project of this scale. Because of that, I wanted the project to succeed or fail in large part based on whether I was up to the task."
The self-taught director quickly points out he didn't do it all on his own, though. One of the enlightening aspects of the project has been connecting with other locals just as passionate about making movies as he is.
"There’s a bigger scene than I had thought," Backhus says. "The people in it are extremely talented and passionate about what they do. There's a lot of talent here both in front and behind the camera."
He started the screenplay in late 2011, finished in the spring of 2012, and moved right into filming. That was possible largely as a result of connections he made through another local film project Bethany Witch, in which he had a small role. Dane Covey, their cinematographer hired on for the same role with Abduction Day.
Finding talent was one of the easier aspects of filming. When Backhus announced auditions he had a good response and actors came from as far away as Detroit seeking spots in the film.
Like Backhus, many of the people in the local film scene come from live theater backgrounds. Abduction Day lead John Kasdorf, who portrays repeat abductee Neil Crumpton, is known for his high energy performances as a member of the improv team Kind of Pretty Women and other local theatrical and musical productions.
The one and only employee of Crumpton Cutting, Neil's lawncare business, is Moulton Howe, played by Dann Systma. Offscreen, he leads Crawlspace Eviction, the annual Kalamazoo Improv Fest, and has acted locally in everything from Shakespeare to television commercials for Modernistic.
Bello Pizzimenti with a musical theater background from WMU portrays Lu Smith, the graduate student assistant to ufologist Dr. Gillian Carter. Dana Blackstone plays Dr. Gillian Carter. (Throughout, the film pays homage to many TV characters of the 1990s, an era when Backhus says it seems like everyone was slightly obsessed with extraterrestrials.)
Behind the scenes, Erin Fields proved invaluable as assistant director, line producer, makeup, wardrobe and holder of the boom mike.
Though Backhus found a large reserve of talent and crew members in and around Kalamazoo, some spots were hard to fill, such as sound mixer. The boom microphone needed was all but impossible to find.
Support came from Matthew Quemada, cinematographer of the local web seriesTransitions, who had offered help if needed. When the sound equipment Backhus needed proved elusive he borrowed the expensive piece of equipment from the man he had met once before for the first weekend of shooting.
"The film community in and around Kalamazoo may be small but it's passionate and supportive. I was totally blown away," he says.
To finance the film, Backhus scrimped and saved for a year. What he didn't anticipate was the need to purchase all the film equipment required for the project. He decided it was better to have equipment of his own when others who had agreed to be part of the project backed out.
The most intense consequence came about when the sound mixer decided a week before filming was to begin that he was going on a cruise instead. The person who had agreed to be a back-up also became unavailable so Backhus borrowed sound equipment and taught himself how to be a sound engineer, wrapping it up at 4 a.m. the morning filming was to begin. Three hours later cameras were rolling.
When faced with such obstacles, why not just put it off for a week?
"Part of it was my own bullheadedness." Backhus says. "I absolutely wanted to have this film completed in by the end of 2012 and I wasn't willing to have it extend into 2013. Delays were not really an option."
There were other considerations. "We were already on a tight schedule because there were so many people involved. There are only so many hours in a day to get this done and it's like a house of cards. If we take out one the whole thing collapses." The filming schedule had to fit around the work weeks of the cast and crew, most of whom had 40 hour a week jobs. "We were limited to filming on weekends, so there were several days of filming till 4 a.m."
Backhus may have learned how to be a director from a book -- specifically, Directing Actors: Creating Memorable Performances for Film and Television, by Judith Weston -- but some of what the film faced might have challenged even an experienced filmmaker. Triple-digit temperatures caused the camera to overheat, one of the main locations in a very rural location was so tick infested they had to stop regularly for tick checks
"There was always someone with a tick starting to crawl up their ankle," he says.
Backhus also learned a lot about the fickle nature of fog. "For a special effect I thought fog would be very easy to use. It is not. The slightest bit of wind and it moves. There were a lot of shots with fog and it got very aggravating for a lot of people in the cast and for me." Every day of shooting was filled with a lot of tiny problems that added up to a lot of stress.
But the first time he went to the cinematograher's house to see the footage the reality of what had been accomplished set in. "It was an amazing experience. As I was seeing that footage it hit me--we're making a film. Seeing it take shape--it was a really cool feeling."
A Kickstarter campaign is under way to pay for post production costs, final editing, music rights, submission fees for various film festivals and some travel expenses for getting to those festivals. "Our tentative plan," Backhus says, "is to submit it to genre film festivals."
Kathy Jennings is the managing editor of Southwest Michigan's Second Wave. She is a freelance writer and editor.
Filming 'A Dog for Christmas' in downtown Rockford
Friday, January 27, 2012 3:14 PM
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By Cory Morse | [email protected]
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Richard Karn, middle, reads his lines while receiving makeup from Julie Strating and Erick Rodriguez between filming for the movie "A Dog for Christmas" in downtown Rockford Friday, January 27, 2012. Karn is popular for his role in the 1990s sitcom "Home Improvement." Strating is the makeup artist and Rodriguez is her assistant. "It was so picturesque, it was really a beautiful little slice of Americana," Karn said about first seeing Rockford. (Cory Morse | The Grand Rapids Press)
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Friday, January 27, 2012 3:14 PM
0
By Cory Morse | [email protected]
Follow
Richard Karn, middle, reads his lines while receiving makeup from Julie Strating and Erick Rodriguez between filming for the movie "A Dog for Christmas" in downtown Rockford Friday, January 27, 2012. Karn is popular for his role in the 1990s sitcom "Home Improvement." Strating is the makeup artist and Rodriguez is her assistant. "It was so picturesque, it was really a beautiful little slice of Americana," Karn said about first seeing Rockford. (Cory Morse | The Grand Rapids Press)
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A Dog for Christmas' films at First Wok; a bearded Dustin Diamond fills up on Chinese food
By John Gonzalez | [email protected]
on January 26, 2012 at 6:50 PM, updated January 26, 2012 at 6:52 PMEmail | Print
John Gonzalez/Mlive.comDustin Diamond was in Grand Rapids Thursday, Jan. 26, to film his part for "A Dog for Christmas." The filming was at First Wok on Alpine Avenue.
Dustin Diamond -- best known as "Screech" from the "Saved by the Bell" TV show -- was snoozing when I walked into "First Wok" late this afternoon.
In fact, I didn't even know he was there until he pulled himself out of a booth for filming of "A Dog for Christmas," which has been filming in the Grand Rapids area since Sunday.
The independent film stars Diamond, as well as Richard Karn (Al from "Home Improvement") and Dean Cain ("Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman").
Cain was in the Ada area on Sunday to shoot his scenes. And Karn, who will play Santa, is expected to arrive tonight to begin shooting his scenes on Friday in the Rockford area.
Producer Joel Riesig told me earlier in the day their home base in Rockford will be the Corner Bar. Filming begins at 9 a.m.
All the filming for the movie, which is being pitched to TV channels such as Lifetime and ABC Family, will conclude Feb. 6.
This film is the story of a 9-year-old girl who wants a dog for Christmas. The girl is played by 12-year-old Cascade-area native Sophie Bolen, according to a previous story on Mlive.com.
"It is essentially, though, just about extended family getting together in a house at Christmas, and all the hilarity and mayhem that can ensue," Reisig told reporter Zane McMillin.
As for today's filming, Reisig, a Hope College graduate, had to leave for the airport to pick up Karn, while the filming at First Wok on Alpine Avenue continued.
The scene was a crowded restaurant on Christmas Day. Diamond's character was to play an eccentric guest as a character in the film tried to get a table. I didn't get a chance to talk to him, but he seemed rested and pleased with his meal.
The restaurant was filled with about 100 extras who worked with director Christopher Nickin and assistant director Paula Fournier and other film staffers. Many of them answered requests for extras on Facebook or heard the filming through friends.
The owner of First Wok told me that filming would continue until 10 tonight. And that the restaurant closed early today to accommodate the crew.
Email John Gonzalez at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter atTwitter.com/MichiganGonzo
By John Gonzalez | [email protected]
on January 26, 2012 at 6:50 PM, updated January 26, 2012 at 6:52 PMEmail | Print
John Gonzalez/Mlive.comDustin Diamond was in Grand Rapids Thursday, Jan. 26, to film his part for "A Dog for Christmas." The filming was at First Wok on Alpine Avenue.
Dustin Diamond -- best known as "Screech" from the "Saved by the Bell" TV show -- was snoozing when I walked into "First Wok" late this afternoon.
In fact, I didn't even know he was there until he pulled himself out of a booth for filming of "A Dog for Christmas," which has been filming in the Grand Rapids area since Sunday.
The independent film stars Diamond, as well as Richard Karn (Al from "Home Improvement") and Dean Cain ("Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman").
Cain was in the Ada area on Sunday to shoot his scenes. And Karn, who will play Santa, is expected to arrive tonight to begin shooting his scenes on Friday in the Rockford area.
Producer Joel Riesig told me earlier in the day their home base in Rockford will be the Corner Bar. Filming begins at 9 a.m.
All the filming for the movie, which is being pitched to TV channels such as Lifetime and ABC Family, will conclude Feb. 6.
This film is the story of a 9-year-old girl who wants a dog for Christmas. The girl is played by 12-year-old Cascade-area native Sophie Bolen, according to a previous story on Mlive.com.
"It is essentially, though, just about extended family getting together in a house at Christmas, and all the hilarity and mayhem that can ensue," Reisig told reporter Zane McMillin.
As for today's filming, Reisig, a Hope College graduate, had to leave for the airport to pick up Karn, while the filming at First Wok on Alpine Avenue continued.
The scene was a crowded restaurant on Christmas Day. Diamond's character was to play an eccentric guest as a character in the film tried to get a table. I didn't get a chance to talk to him, but he seemed rested and pleased with his meal.
The restaurant was filled with about 100 extras who worked with director Christopher Nickin and assistant director Paula Fournier and other film staffers. Many of them answered requests for extras on Facebook or heard the filming through friends.
The owner of First Wok told me that filming would continue until 10 tonight. And that the restaurant closed early today to accommodate the crew.
Email John Gonzalez at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter atTwitter.com/MichiganGonzo
Hanging out with Daniel ItoPublished September 4, 2012 | By Arthur Martinez
One thing’s for sure. Daniel Ito knows how to throw a barbeque. Not just because he had great food and a keg, but because Dan is a video editor with a following.
A barbeque at Dan’s place hosts a pilgrimage of talent and I always know I’m in the right place when Tim Demasters of Festivus Film Festival is directing me to the beer. Don’t forget Festivus isaccepting submissions because you won’t find a more chill place to show your film.
Plus it’s always good to get advice from the Nix Brother‘s and hear about their latest work with Randy Washington of Total Ghost. Spawned from a simple yet catchy birthday video, Total Ghost is is racking up the shows and getting lot’s of attention, so watch their Facebook page for show announcements.
Lily Cameron graced the festivities with her presence. Her latest project, The Battle of Darla Ryder, is of to a solid start and I’m always happy to promote films that fill a need in our culture.
And the best part about attending these parties is meeting new filmmakers. Especially when they’re conveniently placed next to the keg. And while Dave Tell was modest about his design work for film, I’m sure you’ll be seeing an article about him soon because modest or not, it’s too cool to not tell. Besides, there’s nothing like a beer soaked handshake to cement the deal.
Dave was also kind enough to introduce me to his brother Peter Tell who is working on the short horror/thriller, Cadence. Be sure like their fan page to keep abreast of updates.
All in all a fantastic night and a big thanks to Daniel for hosting!
One thing’s for sure. Daniel Ito knows how to throw a barbeque. Not just because he had great food and a keg, but because Dan is a video editor with a following.
A barbeque at Dan’s place hosts a pilgrimage of talent and I always know I’m in the right place when Tim Demasters of Festivus Film Festival is directing me to the beer. Don’t forget Festivus isaccepting submissions because you won’t find a more chill place to show your film.
Plus it’s always good to get advice from the Nix Brother‘s and hear about their latest work with Randy Washington of Total Ghost. Spawned from a simple yet catchy birthday video, Total Ghost is is racking up the shows and getting lot’s of attention, so watch their Facebook page for show announcements.
Lily Cameron graced the festivities with her presence. Her latest project, The Battle of Darla Ryder, is of to a solid start and I’m always happy to promote films that fill a need in our culture.
And the best part about attending these parties is meeting new filmmakers. Especially when they’re conveniently placed next to the keg. And while Dave Tell was modest about his design work for film, I’m sure you’ll be seeing an article about him soon because modest or not, it’s too cool to not tell. Besides, there’s nothing like a beer soaked handshake to cement the deal.
Dave was also kind enough to introduce me to his brother Peter Tell who is working on the short horror/thriller, Cadence. Be sure like their fan page to keep abreast of updates.
All in all a fantastic night and a big thanks to Daniel for hosting!
2012 & Previous Winners
After each submitted movie is viewed in its entirety by the BWFF selection committee, the top movies are shown on the day of the competition. Our esteemed panel of judges selects the winners from nominations that were chosen from the presented films.
The following is a list of the winners of the Blue Water Film Festival in each year.
The Platinum Award – $1000:
Bare
Submitted by Katherine Nofs
Gold Award – $750:
Zombie Factor
Submitted by Matt Cantu
Silver Award -$500:
Beauty Queen
Submitted by Anna Fleury
The Film Selection Committee Viewers Choice – $250:
Hi Honey
After each submitted movie is viewed in its entirety by the BWFF selection committee, the top movies are shown on the day of the competition. Our esteemed panel of judges selects the winners from nominations that were chosen from the presented films.
The following is a list of the winners of the Blue Water Film Festival in each year.
The Platinum Award – $1000:
Bare
Submitted by Katherine Nofs
Gold Award – $750:
Zombie Factor
Submitted by Matt Cantu
Silver Award -$500:
Beauty Queen
Submitted by Anna Fleury
The Film Selection Committee Viewers Choice – $250:
Hi Honey
Nick Wedyke
Staff Writer
You never know who you’ll run into.
The fourth annual Blue Water Film Festival ran last weekend; Oct. 4 through the 6, from the short film submissions to a guest appearance by Curtis Armstrong, the festival affirmed itself as a Midwest staple for independent film.
“Bare” a short film by Katherine Nofs, a Kalamazoo resident and an SC4 alumni, took the top spot by winning the Blue Water Film Festival’s Platinum Award, which included a $1,000 cash prize.
Even though the final day ended with a bang, there were many events leading up to the awards ceremony.
A contestant of the Film Festival
The film festival started the weekend off with the midwest premiere of Jamie Meltzer’s feature length documentary “Informant”; the film was produced by Michigan and Port Huron’s own Steve Bannatyne, who co-founded Lucky Hat Entertainment.
The Blue Water Film Festival showcases tons of Michigan talent each year.
“I think we’re all Michigan talent, and if we do what we’re capable of doing it’ll help Michigan out all around,” said Jeremy Stemen, executive director of the Blue Water Film Festival.
Day two of the festival featured comedian Loni Love, who hails from Detroit and can be seen on television shows “Chelsea Lately” and “Worlds Dumbest.”
Love entertained an audience with an evening of comedy; this set the stage for a much anticipated day three of films.
The Blue Water Film Festival
Large groups gathered in the McMorran Theatre lobby, Saturday, Oct. 6, anxiously awaiting each block of films that the festival provided.
Labeled A through D, the blocks featured all 27 films chosen to be in the festival.
After block D closed, the fourth annual Blue Water Film Awards commenced.
The awards began with a keynote speech by Curtis Armstrong, an actor whose accomplishments include “Revenge of the Nerds” and “Risky Business.”
Armstrong received the E-nerd Award, sponsored by Nerds-on-Site; and reminded the audience that “nerds rule.” Armstrong then showed a never before seen promo for his upcoming TBS reality show “King of Nerds.”
Following Armstrong’s speech and promo, the film awards began.
It was an exciting spectacle as each award from “Best Direction” to “Best Lead Actor” was given out. The final award had the director and cast of “Bare” called to the stage to accept the award.
The Film Festival closed with a Q&A with the directors and “Red Carpet” mingling as “cine-buffs” and filmmakers alike, conversed about the day.
For those interested in getting involved next year you can write the festival at BWFF@ BlueWaterFilmFestival. com, or “Like” the Blue Water Film Festival on Facebook.
Staff Writer
You never know who you’ll run into.
The fourth annual Blue Water Film Festival ran last weekend; Oct. 4 through the 6, from the short film submissions to a guest appearance by Curtis Armstrong, the festival affirmed itself as a Midwest staple for independent film.
“Bare” a short film by Katherine Nofs, a Kalamazoo resident and an SC4 alumni, took the top spot by winning the Blue Water Film Festival’s Platinum Award, which included a $1,000 cash prize.
Even though the final day ended with a bang, there were many events leading up to the awards ceremony.
A contestant of the Film Festival
The film festival started the weekend off with the midwest premiere of Jamie Meltzer’s feature length documentary “Informant”; the film was produced by Michigan and Port Huron’s own Steve Bannatyne, who co-founded Lucky Hat Entertainment.
The Blue Water Film Festival showcases tons of Michigan talent each year.
“I think we’re all Michigan talent, and if we do what we’re capable of doing it’ll help Michigan out all around,” said Jeremy Stemen, executive director of the Blue Water Film Festival.
Day two of the festival featured comedian Loni Love, who hails from Detroit and can be seen on television shows “Chelsea Lately” and “Worlds Dumbest.”
Love entertained an audience with an evening of comedy; this set the stage for a much anticipated day three of films.
The Blue Water Film Festival
Large groups gathered in the McMorran Theatre lobby, Saturday, Oct. 6, anxiously awaiting each block of films that the festival provided.
Labeled A through D, the blocks featured all 27 films chosen to be in the festival.
After block D closed, the fourth annual Blue Water Film Awards commenced.
The awards began with a keynote speech by Curtis Armstrong, an actor whose accomplishments include “Revenge of the Nerds” and “Risky Business.”
Armstrong received the E-nerd Award, sponsored by Nerds-on-Site; and reminded the audience that “nerds rule.” Armstrong then showed a never before seen promo for his upcoming TBS reality show “King of Nerds.”
Following Armstrong’s speech and promo, the film awards began.
It was an exciting spectacle as each award from “Best Direction” to “Best Lead Actor” was given out. The final award had the director and cast of “Bare” called to the stage to accept the award.
The Film Festival closed with a Q&A with the directors and “Red Carpet” mingling as “cine-buffs” and filmmakers alike, conversed about the day.
For those interested in getting involved next year you can write the festival at BWFF@ BlueWaterFilmFestival. com, or “Like” the Blue Water Film Festival on Facebook.