The INSIDE Skinny

StarWarsTheGutTest: Disc Six

2011-10-31T21:57:00.000-07:00

StarWarsTheGutTest: Six films down, looking forward to the DVD extras! But first checkout the review of the "Return of the Jedi" at The Ketch-Fraze!

StarWarsTheGutTest: Disc Five

2011-10-30T21:56:00.000-07:00

StarWarsTheGutTest: Just wrapped up the 5th film and posted the new review.

One more to go then the Blu-Ray Extras! Check out the review on: Ketch-Fraze

StarWarsTheGutTest: Disc Four

2011-10-16T19:18:00.000-07:00

StarWarsTheGutTest: Disc Four... It's not as perfect as before, but still great!

Ketch-Fraze

StarWarsTheGutTest: Disc Three

2011-10-16T09:32:00.000-07:00

StarWarsTheGutTest: Disc Three over and out! Heading towards Episode 4 soon! But since I hit the bed at 4am and it's NFL Sunday, not sure when I'll get to 4... but I feel like it still could be today! lol

Check out the latest review at: Ketch-Fraze

TheStarWarsGutTest

2011-10-15T23:48:00.000-07:00

TheStarWarsGutTest: Disc Two... down and over with. Going to squeez in at least 1 more film tonight!

Ketch-Fraze

StarWarsTheGutTest: Disc One and Done...

2011-10-15T20:36:00.001-07:00

Done with the first disc of the new Blu-ray edition of Star Wars and my first "StarWarsTheGutTest: Disc One" is in the books.

Now onto Disc Two.

Ketch-Fraze: StarWarsTheGutTest: Disc One

Check Out Ketch-Fraze

2011-10-15T15:28:00.000-07:00

Starting a new thread on the Star Wars Blu-ray DVDs. You may want to follow it!

Ketch-Fraze

Wow... Really? Brought to You By Me

2011-09-28T21:09:00.000-07:00

I just got done watching Morgan Spurlock's film, "The Greatest Movie Ever Sold," and I have to tell you I'm not really sure I can ever get a film made without product placement! lol

Now I do believe it can be done and I will continue to make films because I love it, but this film gives you a whole different look at product placement. It's funny and scary at the same time.

I guess since I still have some work to do on my DVD for "3 days... 3 hours... 3 minutes... 3 seconds..." I hope folks will watch and buy the film even without any big... or for that matter any endorsements!

I will think about this process now more when I start my next film, but I do believe... or maybe it's more of a hope... I do hope filmmakers... artist can make their films because of the passion they have for the process and story.... and that's MY story and I'm sticking to it!

I Don't Always Understand... But I Try!

2011-09-11T20:15:00.005-07:00

Just got done watching the 2007 documentary, "Lynch." Now I love films about "process" and so I was hoping this would be a slice into the mind of David Lynch... a director I enjoy a lot of his projects.

Well I have to admit, I think I may be a little more confused than anything, but at least I am intriqued. David Lynch is one odd fellow and I mean that in the best way possible. It's an odd film and an interesting look into some of how he works. The one thing I really took away from the film is that he is an artist and creates work in so many different mediums... something I admire and something I need to do more of!

So I'll use this film as motivation to see if I can get some kind of creative rythmn this week that will then turn into multiple weeks... months and who knows how long. So two blog posts in one night... here and at Ketch-Fraze... that's a start... let's see how the REST of the week turns out.

P.S. I still am working on "3 Days..." I WILL make something happen soon with it.

Got to Get More Active!

2011-07-04T18:23:00.004-07:00

I know, I know, I know... I need to do more with my blog on a regular basis, so I'm trying that tonight. Right now, getting ready to check out the HBO Documentary, "Sex Crime Unit." It's the second straight documentary I've seen from HBO in two nights. Last night's choice, "Bobby Fischer Against the World."

I've made a couple of docs in my past, mainly companion pieces to features I've made, but I like what HBO is doing and who knows maybe one day I'll try a full fledged doc on my own!

Getting Closer and Closer...

2011-04-09T14:56:00.004-07:00

OK so I'm spending some time knocking out editing on, "3 Days..." See... here are the pics to prove it! The last couple of weeks I've tried to sit down and get some work done, there's been a lot going on to delay me, but not today.

Plugging away and it feels good! Hey are you following me on Twitter yet?

Make sure you do... it's simple, just come over and hit me up at: http://twitter.com/MDavidLeeIII

Let the Tweets Begin! Live Sunday Feb. 27th!!!!

2011-02-25T07:17:00.005-08:00

Big events this weekend, starting with the "Independent Spirit Awards," on Saturday.

Then it's the "Academy Awards" on Sunday. Yes one day I hope to be at both of them for a film I make, but until then, we'll have our blogs and tweets to share.

And this Sunday a special event for Triple Sticks Productions... I'll tweet live during the West Coast edition of the Academy Awards! Make sure you follow me on Twitter by clicking right here! And follow along during the broadcast! Can't wait to see you Sunday!!!

Making a dent in a lot of things!

2011-02-19T16:29:00.008-08:00

OK, so just saw another Academy Award nominated film, that's two this week, three if you take it back to last weekend when I finally saw, "The Social Network." And yes, I did like it and can see why it's getting a big Oscar Buzz. I love Aaron Sorkin's writing, it takes me back to just how good, "West Wing" use to be. Top picture of the year? Depends on who really comes out to vote, if they're under 40 perhaps, over I think it will go to "The King's Speech."

Now I started the week with, "Winter's Bone." Really good film, but an even better performance by John Hawkes who, in my estimation, should win the Academy Award for "Best Supporting Performance by a male."

I first discovered him awhile back on "Deadwood," and have loved watching him work ever since. He's also pretty good in, "Eastbound & Down," on HBO.

But in "Winter's Bone," His portrayal as "Teardrop" in this film is outstanding! A little scary, but he has that kind of William H. Macy kind of a thing going, in that when he's on the screen or slated to be in a film, you want to see him work. He'll do little things to inhabit his characters and they work so well.

The other AA film I saw this week... today actually, "The King's Speech."Very good film... a safe Hollywood voters kind of a film.(See above) I liked Colin Firth, who I believe will come away with the Oscar in this one, but probably more so for his performance last year in "A Single Man," more so than this years role. He's good in this, but better in "A Single Man." I just think the nature of that film was a little tough for folks to deal with.

Now the reason why I'm able to write so much right now is because I am also getting tons of work done on the "3 Days..." DVD which as we speak is rendering another file, which takes a long time so in between I'm catching you all up on what's going on.

So that's what I'm up to... 4 AA films down, more to go... going to try to see as many before the big night! One day... oh one day.

Found a New Spot!

2011-02-05T14:36:00.004-08:00

Check out my new mobile office! Pretty cool huh? Well we'll see how it goes, this is a new place and just doing some work here for the first time, we'll see how the vibe is. So far so good, although I guess the ultimate test is to see how much work I'm actually able to knock out... that's when I'll know if this place will go into the natural writing rotation.

Also starting my push to see as many Academy Award nominated films before the big night. It's going to be tough considering I've only seen one so far, "Inception," but we'll see what I can do about it. On the plate tonight, "The Kids Are Alright."

Anyway, I have a ton of stuff to do, from DVD things to some tax prep, to working on some future projects, so let's see how day one in the new spot feels.

Peace... for now!

The End is in Sight!

2011-01-23T13:59:00.003-08:00

Spent a lot of quality time working on the, "3 days..." DVD and it's coming out great! I can't wait to put the finishing touches on the project. Keeping it real, this bad boy should be done and ready by the end of February and that will make me and everyone very, very happy!

As I've been putting together all of the elements and some of the very special elements, I'm reminding just how hard we worked on the project and how proud I really am of it. I hope when it's all said and done and you place your orders for the DVD and pick it up, you'll appreciate it as well!

2011... Bring it on! Let's do this thing!

2011-01-07T09:27:00.002-08:00

OK, I'm pulling for a great 2011! In a lot of respects, 2010 was a very difficult year, but some times you have to go through tough times and I believe that's what 2010 was all about. I came out on the other side in decent shape. The company has some great things planned for 2011 so if we can make them happen, that will be great!

So with a positive attitude I lift my cup of coffee from my mobile office where I am working today and toast you and yours! 2011 is going to be a great one for Triple Sticks Productions and we hope you'll be with us for the ride!

Wrapping up the year!

2010-12-20T09:42:00.004-08:00

Well I hope I'll get a chance to post at least one more time before the official end of the year, but judging by my recent or not so recent posts that may not happen, so on this rare day off from the paying gig I decided to get one more entry in. (By the way today's picture... my new Panivision App... it's kind of cool and free!)

The good news is that despite how long it has taken for me to get to the end, the end is near for the DVD for "3 days..." It just has taken a lot longer than I had hoped, but all of the stuff in it should be worth a lot of the wait. I hope folks like it when it comes out next year.

It's been a big year for us here at TSP. I mean starting with the move across country being the biggest change for the year. Personally I spent a lot of time writing this past year and no doubt will again next, but I am closer and closer to starting something... a new project and I just have to make sure it's the right one and all my ducks are in a row. I don't want to start something and then not deliver.

Anyway, I need to get some more work done here as I wrap up 2010. Thanks for spending at least part of the year with us and I hope 2011 is even more productive... I know I'll be pushing for it to be!

Peace, love and happy holidays!

Knocking Out Some Editing

2010-12-04T12:46:00.004-08:00

Spending some time inside this weekend knocking out some editing for, "3 days..." I need to just power through this.

I'm near the end and have some good stuff, I just have to really buckle down and lock it up. Most of the elements are in house it's just that last fine tuning that seems to take so much to get right. I'm not going to predict when it will be done anymore just going to hope it's soon!

Not a lot to post here today because I need to get shit done! Peace out my friends!

Dating For Dummies With TSP!

2010-11-01T20:46:00.005-07:00

Here is a new contest that I think you'll all enjoy and it's for a chance to win a great film... check it out!"Had a bad date in the past? Have advice for others? Well here's your chance to share your wisdom and enter a contest for a chance to win the hit film from Triple Sticks Productions, "Slow Down... You're Dating Too Fast!" The hilarious comedy about five people trying to find love through speed dating!

All you have to do is log onto Facebook, become a fan of Triple Sticks Productions by hitting the "Like" button then post a piece of dating advice on the main wall and that's it... you're entered to win!

We'll select three winners who've become a friend and posted dating advice at random to win a DVD copy of, "Slow Down... You're Dating Too Fast!" and ship it to you! All entries must be posted by November 30th and we'll announce the winners on December 1st! (One entry per person)

Share your great dating advice and win a great film all at once!!!"

Am I Becoming a Regular?

2010-10-30T09:31:00.003-07:00

OK I don't get as much time as I'd like to spend at my mobile office downtown, but I don't find it very interesting that every time I'm here I do see the same core group of folks... mostly smoking outside since you can't smoke in or right outside of the place... thank goodness. I wonder if they notice me or is it me just noticing them?

So it was supposed to rain and the plan was to stay inside and edit all day, well since it didn't do that... still chilly... I put on my shorts and sweatshirt and headed out to get some work done BEFORE I settle in for some editing.

Today is just one of those days when I have a million and one things to do and I know I don't have enough time for all of them. The good thing is that for those who follow Triple Sticks Productions, most of them pertain to you!

First there is the editing... still wrapping up the doc for "3 days..." and that is finally nearing the end.

Second... getting ready for a couple of announcements this next month so I have to lock in some stuff regarding that today.

Third... tons of web, TSP on Twitter, and TSP on Facebook stuff.

And fourth... writing and more. I'm not sure how I'll knock it all down, except going at it one little project at a time. That being said, this part is done for now. You've been caught up on what's going on for today and the upcoming month a bit. I hope to have more for you soon, but thanks for following Triple Sticks Productions!

Where Do The Days Go?

2010-10-16T08:41:00.004-07:00

Here I am at my mobile office in Salinas and I'm thinking... where did another week go? It seems like I was just here, but really it was a week ago. I had so many plans, but paying the bills doing something else means not as much time spending on Triple Sticks Productions and that my friends HAS to change.

I do have plans coming and I'll get some good work done today, but I want to try to figure out a way to get some more work done during the week so that I don't have to pile it all in on Saturday's... you know what I'm talking about?

And that leads me to another thought... how many of you are actually following and reading this blog? You know there is a comment box attached with every post and you know I rarely hear from anyone. How about showing some love with this week's post and let me know what you think.

Anyway, time to get some serious work done, so I bid you all adieu!

Where In The World Is MDL3??? lol

2010-10-09T10:06:00.005-07:00

Wow! I went a whole month without a blog entry... that cannot happen again! My apologies to everyone who follows this blog.

So let me at least get you caught up on some things here at TSP:

1. Still working on finishing up "3 days..." It's in pretty good shape, just waiting on one last interview and then some final tweaking and I am hoping, hoping to get this done now by the end of the year.

2. We closed our Triple Sticks Productions group on Facebook, we now have a Triple Sticks Productions "Fan page" on Facebook, so please find it, click like and follow us there.

3. In November there are two big events happening. We're going to have a special Facebook contest so watch out for details on that.

And we will be announcing details of a new project! Yep, we're gearing up for a new... well let me keep my mouth shut and not even get into it yet... let's just say it WILL be something dynamic!

So while I didn't get a chance to post much in September I hope this makes up for it a bit. As I sit here at my mobile office I'm working away on several things that will hopefully make the end of 2010 another big success for our little film company that could!

The Switch is On!

2010-08-12T09:49:00.004-07:00

So we've made the switch over on Facebook from a group page to the TSP Fan Page. Hopefully the change will be a good one. We'll shut down the group page September 1st, so make sure you mark that down on your calendars!

A buddy of mine who you've seen in a couple of films, Bevan Bell is starting up his own website. (www.bevanbell.com) It's in the beginning stages, but when you get a chance bookmark it and check it out some time. He has a cool take on a lot of things and is a great shooter, so you no doubt his website will be an interesting one.

And speaking of Bevan and films he's been in... Have you "Blown Up Netflix" this month yet? There's still time! Log onto our website at: www.triplestickspro.com for more details on how you can help send a message... a nice one... to Netflix!

Become a Fan on Facebook!!!

2010-08-07T08:23:00.008-07:00

We have a new "Fan Page" on Facebook! Come on over, join it and keep up to date on all things "Triple Sticks Productions!"

Just click on the picture and become a fan and remember August is "Blowing Up Netflix" month... have you done your part yet???

The Push Is On!

2010-07-31T22:17:00.003-07:00

It's August 1st and we're asking YOU to help support independent film by checking out our hit film, "Dog Me: Potluck" on Netflix. Our push is to, "Blow Up Netflix" and send them a message by getting as many people to watch our film and post something about it on Netflix.

It's an award winning comedy about a couple hosting a potluck dinner with some of their wild and wacky friends to see where their own marriage stacks up. Great performances, awesome DVD extras and we think you'll enjoy it.

So help us out... get the word out and let's do it up right... let's blow up Netflix!

TSP NEEDS YOUR HELP... YOU READY???

2010-07-28T22:29:00.003-07:00

We're sending a message to Neflix this month that independent film is important! We've seen Hollywood call some films with budgets of close to $25,000,000 "Independent Films," and I don't think that really counts!

So help us if you can... we're asking all of you who have Netflix accounts to tell your family and friends to rent our film in August and we're asking you to do the same... even if you've seen it already.

Just put it in your queue, watch a funny, interesting, award winning film and then before you send it back, drop a note in Netflix about the film. If we can get a lot of fans of the film and indie film in general to do it, I think it will show Netflix and Hollywood that small films do count!

Won't you help???

Far Too Long!

2010-07-24T16:45:00.004-07:00

Wow! I looked up and boom realized I hadn't updated this in nearly a month! That has got to change, I need to get back into the swing of things and but quick!

OK before I get into TSP stuff, let me introduce you to JoAnne Perez Robinson. She's a local artist from Gilroy and in my day job to pay the bills, we're working with her on a story. I met her today at the "32nd Annual Gilroy Garlic Festival."

She's got a great vibe and energy about her, so I wanted to pass along her name to you in case you're ever in the area and looking for some of her work. Check out this piece.
One of the cool things about her, yep just like me she's been watching Bravo's, "Work of Art/The Next Great Artist." It was interesting to hear her take on the show and it turns out we are pulling for some of the same artist as well! If I find her website, I'll post a link here so you can see more of her work.

As for my work, I have to admit I need a kick in the pants right now. Since moving from the East to the West, it's been hard to adjust to everything. I have about 3 or 4 things I need to work on, including finishing up the 10th Anniversary Special Edition of "3 days..." and I'd like to get that done before it turns into the 11th anniversary edition. I'll use today's run in with a "real artist" as some motivation. lol

I am putting together a little surprise for August that I'll need your help with. More on that in the next couple of days. In the mean time, I'm working at new "Mobile Office," a cool place right in downtown Salinas... Old Town if you will and so far... I like the vibe. We'll have to see how much it motivates me to work a little harder.

That said, let me sign off and get to work! Ciao, Ciao!

Getting in Touch with My Artistic Side...

2010-06-27T15:04:00.004-07:00

Spending some time today getting in touch with my artistic side. Going through some photos to build a portfolio as well as sending out a couple of emails to get some final bits and pieces for the "3 days..." Special Edition documentary.

Just wrapped up seeing the HBO Documentary, "Smash His Camera," a film about Ron Galella. Interesting subject and piece. He's probably one of THE most well know paparazzi photographers out there and while you may not agree with what he does, he does have some amazing shots.

So, kind of a slow day here, but some times that's OK.

It's Been Awhile My Friends... But I'm Back!

2010-05-23T14:51:00.005-07:00

OK it's been awhile since I've had a chance to post anything here on our blog, but that will be changing!

The major change that happened this year of course was relocating from Silver Spring to the Left Coast and Salinas, California! And while some of the office is now up and running, we're still setting some things up so it still will be a little while before everything is back running smoothly, so please hang in there with me as the adjustments continue.

Just so you know the plan is still to have our Special Edition DVD of, "3 days... 3 hours... 3 minutes... 3 seconds... " ready for release this summer. There are still some things we're working on to make this one of the best releases ever from TSP. I have to tell you, knowing what's on it right now... you're going to WANT this film for your library. In addition to the film itself on DVD there are so many extras that will make this film an instant classic and one you'll watch over and over again! That's all I'll say for now... but look for more news coming.

Although I haven't written in awhile there are a couple of projects ready to go and once things settle down, I'll let you all know more about what our next piece will be.

In the mean time, it's back to getting things settled here on the Left Coast and thanks for checking us out! We'll see you in the movies!

Setting up shop on the Left Coast!

2010-03-24T14:42:00.002-07:00

So Triple Sticks Productions is now on the Left Coast! We're setting up shop in Salinas California. Over the next several weeks you'll start to see more updates regarding what's going on.

The first major event we have lined up is finishing off the 10th anniversary DVD for "3 days..."

Stay with us and look for all of the exciting new news as it happens!

Big Changes for TSP

2010-03-16T20:31:00.003-07:00

Triple Sticks Productions is relocating to the Left Coast! More to come on the big move... stay tuned!

September... Not a Bad Month at All!

2010-02-25T10:29:00.005-08:00

OK, so I just saw, "The September Issue" the other day... the documentary film about Anna Wintour and the September edition of "Vogue" magazine their biggest every year and I loved it! I love most films about creative people and how they do what they do and this one is no exception.

Anna Wintour, who runs everything is a hoot and a half to watch. I love her attitude, work style and just overall driven ability to see and get her vision of fashion onto the pages of Vogue... she IS "Vogue." Some think she's a hard ass and yes she is, but there is something about that, that I just get off on.

Now she's not the only one putting things down and taking names... Grace Coddington is her right hand person and creative director at "Vogue" and together they're like "Batman and Robin," kicking butt and taking names.

You look for inspiration every where to keep you going in this business. I have about 4 or 5 films when I'm in that funk I just turn to and have to shut out the world, watch and get hyped and motivated again.

When I see films like this one, it gets my pumped! Sure it's not the same business... it's not the same level... but I think the core inside of a driven person is really the same no matter what the level is.

One day when I hit it big... someone will do a 60 Minutes story or film and they'll talk about what kept me going all of these years and the drive and passion it takes and I'll bet you'll be able to see a lot of Anna Wintour in me!

Awww Buddy... Back At It!

2010-02-17T07:11:00.003-08:00

Yes... coffee at my mobile office, my laptop, Pandora Radio on and work to get done... even though it's butt ass cold and gloomy outside, things are getting right with the world again! Now if I can only get some sun and heat and we'll be alright!

Have been doing a lot of editing on the new "3 Days..." dvd which WILL come out some time this year... hopefully sooner rather than later in the year. Still waiting on at least two more interviews from folks who have promised me that they will happen soon, so I'll keep my fingers crossed and hold off really finishing it until I get something locked in from them. In the meantime there are a lot of other things I can do on the dvd, so I'll be staying busy.

I have another new script that I finished a couple of weeks ago. It's not 100% ready to work on yet, still need to do some tweaking, but I did send it to a script competition "As-Is," and right now it's been getting some great feedback! I'll share more news about it next week and let you know how things go. The big prize in the end would be a production deal for it.

And then still another script is in a "Spec-Script" competition, "Scriptapolza." So we'll see what happens. My theory is and will always be... throw enough darts at the board and you're bound to get one of them to stick one of these days.

So that's it for now, stuff to do so I'll sign off from here for now... peace!

A New Way To Watch, "1-900"

2010-02-15T10:52:00.006-08:00

"1-900" is the first feature film I ever made. It has done well screening in festival and being sold in several markets overseas and here in the United States as well!

The film is about a female serial killer who uses "1-900" lines to stalk her prey and the two detectives bent on trying to catch her. It's a low budget thriller we shot back in 1995 and has been describe as, "A cross between, "Basic Instinct" and "9 1/2 Weeks," with a little "Pulp Fiction" thrown in as well."

You can buy the film at: www.triplestickspro.com and now I just learned you can stream it to your computer and watch it, simply by going to SRS Cinema.com

It's a film I'm very proud of because it's the first, but also because so many people worked really hard to make this one. Check it out if you get a chance and let me know what you think!

Snowmegeddon 2... the Blizzard!

2010-02-10T11:48:00.004-08:00

So in case you haven't heard, we're getting pounding out here on the East Coast... the DC area... Silver Spring to be exact with snow and snow and more snow! It's been horrible over the last several days and not sure when it will all end.

The good news though is I have my edit system up and running and have been getting some really good work done cutting our special anniversary DVD for, "3 days... 3 hours... 3 minutes... 3 seconds..."

And I got some good news yesterday... an interview I need for the DVD should be coming very soon!

All in all that means, hopefully the DVD will get complete soon and you'll all get a chance to see what I've been so excited about for months!

The Final New Ad of the Week!

2010-02-04T21:21:00.004-08:00

Melissa Wilson is the focus of our final new ad of the week for "Slow Down... You're Dating Too Fast!"

Pick up a copy of our DVD at a brand new price at www.triplestickspro.com I hope you enjoyed all 5 of the ads and send folks to our web site and help support indie filmmaking!

Thursday is Here and so is a New Ad!

2010-02-03T22:45:00.003-08:00

So in this version of our new ad, Drew Smith, one of the stars of the film helps to hawk a couple of DVD's at our brand new price! Check it out and order one just in time for Valentines Day at www.triplestickspro.com

Wednesday's ad... hope you like it!

2010-02-03T12:50:00.002-08:00

Shouting out to everyone from Memphis to San Jose to Peoria! Hope you like today's new ad featuring Mandy Lane and I hope you're letting folks know about the great new price on our hit film, "Slow Down... You're Dating Too Fast!"

Pick up a copy today at www.triplestickspro.com!

And the Oscar/Independent Spirit Award Goes to???

2010-02-02T07:56:00.007-08:00

I've mentioned this before, growing up I really wanted to win an Academy Award. There was something about watching the show on the East Coast in Brookline where I grew up and dreaming about being a filmmaker and being called up to the stage to accept the statuette and to try to say something kind of funny and touching that folks would remember forever.

Before my daughter, I always promised my Mom I would take her to the ceremony. I was young and innocent and movies were pure magic and I loved the whole idea of everything about them.

I still feel that way to a certain extent, but now lean more towards really wanting to win an Independent Spirit Award... dressing in something cool, yet casual and bringing my teenage daughter to the event so we can rub elbows with a clever mix of the old and new cool Hollywood... I know they claim to be indie, but there is still a ton of Hollywood involved. I mean when a small indie film is considered $17 Million dollars... it's still pretty Hollywood if you ask me.

But still, it would be great to be there... and like my Oscar speech, I've honed my Indie Spirit Award speech as well and if it doesn't get me in all of the clips of the night... it will definitely get me a date and a job out of winning! lol

As the Oscar nominations were unveiled today, the Indie Spirit nominations awhile back I still get that special feeling inside that I had as a little kid. That sense of excitement, like I can't wait until Santa arrives on Christmas eve. And at the same time, I am reminded that I don't make films because I want to win awards. I make films because I love the magic of it all. I make movies because I truly love to do it. I hope, maybe one day someone will see one of my films and use that as inspiration to go on and make their own film... to say to themselves, "Yes I can make films."

I wish all of the nominees all of the luck in the world, it IS an honor to be nominated... but to all of those out there making films who weren't nominated for anything and who make films because you love them and love the process... Congratulations... It's a honor to be a part of your fraternity!

Tuesday's Ad Featuring Shaun Green

2010-02-02T07:52:00.003-08:00

Here's a look at Tuesday's ad for, "Slow Down... You're Dating Too Fast!" featuring Shaun Green who does an amazing job in the film, along with the rest of a great cast!

Help support independent film and pick up your copy of the film at a brand new price by heading over to www.triplestickspro.com

Brand New Price... It's a Steal!

2010-02-01T09:24:00.003-08:00

We've got a new price for our hit film, "Slow Down... You're Dating Too Fast!" and new ads debuting today and running all week long!

Five new ads to promote a great film and give you a chance to help support indie filmmaking. Each day this week, we'll post one of the new ads here! And if you would like to help support indie filmmaking, pick up your own copy of the film by simply heading to www.triplestickspro.com

"Slow Down... You're Dating Too Fast!" a great date film, just in time for Valentines Day!

Post a comment about our new ad and let us know what you think!

Cheers

At Least I'm Trying...

2010-01-28T06:35:00.003-08:00

So, working at a relatively new "Mobile Office," one I've only been to once before and I do like this place and would probably make it a regular stop if it were only closer. In the spirit of trying new things, I decided to try a "Cinnamon Dolce Latte," which Starbucks claims is only 90 calories... good right? Wrong! It was entirely too sweet and really didn't taste too good, which is bad since I do really like Cinnamon. So it's back to the Extra hot mocha.

Got some things done yesterday, need to power through some stuff here today. New announcement coming on February 1st, so lots to do to get ready for that. Hopefully today, which has started off a little slow, will turn into something good... I need a little good for a change.

A Kick in the Butt CAN be Good!

2010-01-26T11:35:00.007-08:00

Had coffee today in downtown Silver Spring with fellow filmmaker/blogger/distributor/everything Sujewa Ekanayake, down from Brooklyn NYC. When it comes to ultra low budget filmmaking in just about every aspect, he's your man. I have his site listed on the side of this blog, "DIY Filmmaker Sujewa"a site, you should check out whenever you get a chance.

We first met when he was living in the area a couple of years ago and have stayed in touch ever since. Every time I meet with him, I get pumped up about the small, truly independent filmmaker/business.

He's got a lot of great ideas and just some good insight into making this level of filmmaking work. It's great to bounce ideas back and forth and he always makes me feel like, "Damn... I know I do a lot already, but I have to do more!"

So that in mind, keep a look out here and at, Triple Sticks Productions for some news over the next week or so. I've felt the kick in the butt, now I'm going to do some major work!

Kind of Funky... And Not in a Good Way...

2010-01-20T06:44:00.004-08:00

Just kind of a weird vibe today. I HAD to be out of my apartment early today because they're doing some work on the pipes, oh by the way thanks to the guy busting out the Jackhammer early this morning right outside of my window!

So I hit a mobile office to do some work, but still feel like somethings missing today. It's a gray, slightly wet day. It just has one of those "funky" day feels about it. Nonetheless I'm going to try to turn it into something positive!

That starts with taking some time to go back and start working on the second draft of my new script. Tweaking is the order of the day, trying to make sure everything I initially wrote really makes sense and sounds a good a second time around as it did the first time coming out of my head. I think I have a good feel for dialogue, it flows quickly at times, but I just have to make sure it really holds up draft after draft. I also like to allow the actors to get a hold of their lines and really work on making their character their own, so some things may change if I end up being the one shooting this.

OK, well time to get to work, enough babbling here... I hope wherever you are, your day isn't as "funky" as this one has started out!

Wow... What a Change!

2010-01-18T10:21:00.007-08:00

So at a new mobile office... probably not one that I'll go to too often because it's out the rotation area, but I really dig it. In addition to a ton of space, in the middle of it all are these long family style tables with tons of outlets so everyone can sit down and use there computers. It's kind of a cool way to do work!

Good news, wrapped up the first draft on the new project. It took about a week to hammer it out and I like it... at least right now lol. What will happen next is I'll take about a day or two away from it so I have a fresh set of eyes to look at it and then I'll go through and start editing, tweaking and making it a really strong project. Don't know how many drafts I'll have to go through... I'll knock out as many as I feel it needs until it's ready to go into production. This is a project that I will probably do myself. It's small enough and will allow me to get my hands dirty if you will.

Got a bite this weekend from an agent who wanted to see some writing, so I fired off the spec script for "Hung" that I wrote. It's pretty funny and I think it's a good representation of my writing. It also is a hot show right now, so maybe that will make me more interesting to him. This is the first time, after sending out hundreds of emails, that I've had an agent go past the typical, "Thanks but no thanks," letter, so while I'm not getting my hopes up, I am keeping my fingers crossed.

OK, time to get some more work done... hopefully I'll have some more news for you all later this week!

2010-01-15T08:04:00.008-08:00

OK, so I'm at one of my mobile office's knocking out some writing and more. While it's been a busy week, I need to keep pushing and get some more writing done this weekend.

It's funny a lot of people ask me where my mobile office is and to them I say, "That's why they're mobile, so I don't have any one in particular!" lol

I don't want to be so predictable... I like the idea of hitting on the run... one day it might be here... the next another place. All of the offices in the rotation right now, have different energy and depending on what I'm working on or what the day is like usually depends on which one I'll be hacking at.

So today, it's about doing some blogging, sending out some emails and some work on my new project, which over the next couple of months I'll be able to get into a little more.

Anyway so I don't just let my coffee get cold and my ideas grow stale, it's time to settle in and do some good work... until next time my friends... Ciao!

Location, Location, Location...

2010-01-08T10:54:00.003-08:00

Day two of working on my new project and getting a lot done. Yesterday was a really good day writing, hoping for more of the same today.

Started out with a good workout... little healthy breakfast... hairs cut and then changing up my writing location for today, let's see how this place does in terms of giving me that energy I love when I write.

Have a cup of coffee with me. Listening to a little George Michael on "Pandora Internet Radio," deep in thought all day long... hopefully all of this will help inspire.

Sleepless in Silver Spring!

2010-01-07T10:11:00.004-08:00

So as usual, I came up with what I believe is a pretty great concept for a project just as I was trying to drift of to sleep... which didn't happen!

Restless hours, lying in bed thinking and thinking about this idea. It may not have been great for my physical health, but mentally it was pretty stimulating.

It's led to furious work today... which means down the line... something big for TSP!

Back to the grind... although in the case of this idea... it doesn't feel like a grind at all! Remember my theory... when you have something to write, write it and let it flow, because you never know when you'll have that idea and energy again.

Ciao

Really... Season's Greetings?

2010-01-06T07:19:00.002-08:00

OK, the first blog post of the year and I'm already in a "Ba-Humbug" kind of a mode! lol I went to one of my mobile offices and it was closed down... then had to stand in line at the pharmacy and argue with them for a bit... then when I finally get to my new mobile office, I stare up and see the "Season's Greetings" banner. It's butt ass cold, nasty-dirty snow everywhere, I can't write at a decent table today and you get the drift.

But this is going to be a more positive year than last, more exciting things coming our way here at Triple Sticks Productions, so I'm going to throw out all today's early hiccups and get excited... about something... anything!

OK, maybe I need another cup of coffee before that... bottom line, this will be a great year... today... not the best, but alas it IS still early!

P.S. Did I mention I spent 5 and half hours on the phone the other day with tech support for two minor issues that in the end took all of three minutes to take care of? Wait... positive... positive!

Wrapping up the year... so long 2009

2009-12-30T08:12:00.003-08:00

It's been another pretty solid year for Triple Sticks Productions. We're still pushing for more success and that hopefully will come in 2010. We have a lot planned and some of it, you'll start noticing right away!

When I look back at 2009 I'm struck by the amount of films I saw in a theater... better, but not nearly enough, have to get there more often. But on the same front this year I discovered "Netflix" and have watched more films ever because of it!

Of the films I saw in the theaters... my top three... hands down, "Up in the Air," "The Wrestler," and "Milk."

As for what I saw via "Netflix" the tops this year: "Weeds (seasons 1-5), " "Gran Torino," "Man on Wire," "Changeling," and, "The Reader."

Mix all of those in with so much stuff that I watch on TV and on cable and it's been a full year.

I'm not sure what 2010 holds for me and the company... but that's what makes getting up everyday so exciting. For all of you who've followed us this year, thank you. And we hope to do more, be better, and continue to create as well!

Have a Happy and Safe 2010!

Thawing Out... What's the Big Deal?

2009-12-21T05:49:00.005-08:00

OK I grew up on the East Coast... Brookline to be exact and snow was never really that big of an issue, just something you dealt with. So when I moved here to Silver Spring, realizing it was a little bit South of Boston... home of Steamers, Lobster, and Great Pizza... I still figured they would know how to deal with inclement weather. But that wasn't the case this weekend!

We had a blizzard hit us late Friday night that pounded us with snow for about 48 hours. The city and area was totally shut down on Saturday and while the snow had stopped by Sunday, things were still moving at a snails pace.

Today, Monday I had to get up early and venture out into the real world and deal with the snow, which to me was no big deal, but I am amazed at how many folks from this area, cannot do the simplest things in the snow like... turn! People see a little of the white stuff on the ground and immediately turn into the worst drivers since... since... well, since Boston drivers!
Well my stuntman driving skills, developed on the crooked streets of Boston through sleet, snow and rain have helped me all over the world and they helped me today. I've landed at one of my favorite mobile offices... I'm getting some work done... and since there are still not a lot of folks out here, it almost feels like I have a city to myself.

So thanks snow for making it a white Christmas this year... and to all of you out there in this area driving... if you can't do the snow thing... stay at home... for all of us... please?

"Up in the Air"... Worth Every Penny of it!

2009-12-19T10:30:00.000-08:00

I am a George Clooney fan... have been always will be! I had heard a lot about "Up in the Air," and it definetly lived up to the hype and more so. If you've ever flown for business, you'll love this film... if you're over the age of 25, you'll love this film. And if you just love a great film, beautiful story telling and great performances... you guessed it, you'll love this film!

When I set out to become a filmmaker, I guess I wanted to make films more like the new hit, "Panic Attack," although for my day it was more like the original "Star Wars." But over the years I've developed into a filmmaker that loves quirkier, characater driven films. The last two I've made were those kinds of films.

I hope more and more people see "Up in the Air." Yes I plan to see "Avatar" and I suspect it will be good as well, but this film is more about the story and people and the kind of film I'd like to make and see more of!

$300 and Counting!

2009-12-19T10:14:00.000-08:00

"Fede" Federico Alvarez is living the dream! From this $300 short film on "YouTube," he's landed a deal with Sam Rami... that's how you keep the dream alive!

It's a four minute short featuring space ships, huge robots and great special effects. Robert Rodriguez made his mark with a $7,000 feature with "El Mariachi," now Alvarez and company have done it with "Panic Attack." Check out the short and let me know what you think... post a comment!

A Great Story to Give Us All Hope!

2009-12-18T08:34:00.003-08:00

Check it out... nice to see the dream is still alive!

http://news.yahoo.com/video/entertainment-15749636/youtube-short-lands-budding-director-30m-movie-deal-17190532

Downtown... It's All Downtown!

2009-12-18T07:46:00.003-08:00

Spending a little time... downtown of course and doing some writing here today. Odd place, because it's not my official mobile office location... aka Starbucks, but trying Panera again. The good, free internet, the bad, some times it runs slow so that jams up Pandora Radio, which I love listening too while I work, so songs start and then stop mid phrase... pick up again... stop... it's all very frustrating.

By the way, the building downtown... the Lee building, is not related to me in anyway, but it's a really cool Art Deco like building and at night the Lee lights up, so I really dig that.

In addition to spending some time working downtown, I'm going to check out the new Clooney film, "Up in the Air." I'm a Clooney guy... I've loved him since "Facts of Life," and usually love watching him work, so I hope this one lives up to the hype.

The best part of it all is I get to see the film at the AFI theater where... downtown... so I'm happy about that! Haven't seen a bad film there yet!

Sending a Little Love and Guilt... Mom Style!

2009-12-16T06:28:00.004-08:00

OK so I have been working on this special DVD for "3 Days..." and I've been asking very politely some of my cast and crew to shoot some interviews for it and a lot of them have said yes! Now yes and getting the interviews done don't always go hand in hand, so with the help of a FlipCam, I put together a little clip to encourage them to send their stuff in right away.

Now I realize it's not going to win me an Independent Spirit Award or and Academy Award, but hopefully it gets my point across in a fun, joking, yet somewhat serious way. And the bottom line, it was all in good fun... thanks guys!

P.S. Get your interviews in quickly!!! lol

At The Mobile Office, But There's No Pam, Jim or Dwight!

2009-12-15T07:00:00.003-08:00

The holidays have begun and everything from now until the end of the year seems to be trying to slow down. I say trying, because some places do put it on cruise control until after the first, but I can't... still too much to do.

Last week, not a bad one getting some quality work done on the "3 Days..." DVD, but still more to do. This week I hope to get some more editing and a maybe even some shooting done. I hate to keep bothering my cast and crew, but a couple of folks have said they'll shoot something for the new interview segment, but haven't received it yet. I hope to knock that out as soon as possible, because I'd love to have them be a part of it all.

I have an idea, using my FlipCam that I might try today to see if it will work to kind of guilt them into getting things in the mail! Keep your fingers crossed.

That Time of The Year...

2009-12-08T06:53:00.001-08:00

The red cups for the holidays are in full effect at my favorite mobile office and the end of the year is nearing! It's funny, some folks get really excited to see the red mugs, I suppose it's a nice touch.

Yesterday spent a good bit of the day editing one of the "extras" segments for the "3 Days..." DVD. It came out pretty good! Still more to do, but I feel like it's going in the right direction. I hope that I can finish all of the editing by the middle of January, but of course some of that depends on others who have some interviews to pass along. If I can just get those last few interviews in, I can really start to look long term for a release date.

So let me get some work done here and keep the train heading in the right direction!

Editing, Editing and More Editing!

2009-12-07T10:47:00.001-08:00

Getting some good work done on the "3 Days..." Special Anniversary Edition of the DVD. Knocked out one interview today and putting together some ins and outs.

Have a couple of more interviews from cast/crew members coming and hopefully will shoot one interview later this week or next for the project as well. It's coming along slowly, but it's been a blast revisting the film and the project and I think folks are really going to like what they see!

Going Old School... Ding, Dong, Ding!

2009-12-03T06:53:00.001-08:00

Hanging out at my mobile office this morning and in addition to some good coffee, I'm listening to Pandora Radio and Anita Ward's "Ring My Bell," is on and that brings me back... way back! That's 8th grade for me folks, 1979 Disco was king!

Have some stuff to work on for "3 Days..." looks like I'm going to be getting a couple of interviews coming soon which will be great. I have a couple of things to tape on my end as well, so I'll knock those out at the beginning of next week and then I should be able to sit down and do some serious editing. I really want to have a rough cut done before the Holidays and then lock everything up near before the end of January.

The stuff I have right now is pretty good and I think when everyone sees this DVD they'll really like the tons and I mean tons of extras with this bad boy, so that's nice, especially for all of those who worked their asses off to get this film made... thanks again folks!

Anyway time to get to work... Bell, Biv, DeVoe... 1990... "Poison" how can you not work with all of this great music! (All of this found on Pandora Radio, all I did was hit Klymaxx as my radio station!)

The Breakfast of Champions?

2009-12-01T07:27:00.001-08:00

Big morning, joining the Twitter Nation... it'll be interesting to see how this all works, but so far so good. If you want to follow me there, just click the link next to the blog for Twitter and you can link with me there or go to: www.twitter.com/MDavidLeeIII and you can use that link to follow me.

I hope this week will be kind of busy, I need to really push myself on a couple of things... working on the logo for TSP and of course the 10th Anniversary DVD for "3 days... 3 hours... 3 minutes... 3 seconds..." I have a lot done, but still have a lot more to knock out. Hopefully I'm going to be getting a couple of interviews from some folks on the Left Coast and then there is someone out here I should be able to hook up with soon and lock down their interview. I will say, I like where things are going with the overall DVD though.

Let the Tweets Begin!

2009-11-30T21:04:00.007-08:00

It's official, director M. David Lee III is a part of the Twitter Nation! It's the best way to keep track of what's going on with Triple Sticks Productions and with the big things we're expecting for 2010 and you're going to want to keep track of everything!

"Twitter is a great way to let folks know what is going on as we move forward into what we all hope will be a huge 2010. I think it's also going to be a fun way just to let folks know I'm doing, my take on the business and most importantly, what projects I'm working on for Triple Sticks Productions. I think it's going to be a blast!"

M. David Lee III

Writer/Producer/Director/DP/Editor

To follow David all you have to do is log onto Twitter.com and you can find him at: www.twitter.com/MDavidLeeIII

In the meantime, need some gifts for the holidays? Why not pick a film from Triple Sticks Productions? You can purchase copies of our films on DVD at our web site and help support independent films. Check out our selection by clicking over to www.triplestickspro.com

And if you want something sooner, just add our hit film, "Dog Me: Potluck" to your Netflix queue!

Seeing our film is now as easy as sending an email! All you have to do is put it on your Netflix queue and then in a matter of a couple of days it will be delivered into your mailbox, it's just that simple!

Make a great meal, have a nice beverage and settle in for a great movie night!

On The Road

2009-11-23T10:53:00.003-08:00

Do you recognize this place? It was the police headquarters for one of the greatest television shows of the 90s and maybe ever... "Homicide: Life of the Street"

Today I'm up in Fells Point doing a little writing before picking up my Mom at the airport for a Thanksgiving visit and I was looking for a place to grab a cup of coffee and write and found this funky, cool coffee shop just across the street from the station, so you know I had to go in and spend some time.

If you can't tell, I loved that show, especially the first couple of seasons. The writing was amazing... the performances outstanding and jut the overall vibe of the how was state of the art back then. No one did a show like that and while it struggled to find an audience for awhile, the critics loved it and those in the know did as well.

"Homicide: Life on the Street," is one of the reasons I love the city of Baltimore and I'm hoping some of that energy will rub off on me today as I sit down and hack away. You know at one point I even wrote an episode of the show, sent it in but it was at the end of the run so I never had a shot of it getting picked up. Somewhere I have a very nice letter from someone on the writing staff saying, "thanks."

One thing is for sure as I get ready to close this up and get to work... I love these kinds of funky little coffee houses. The people, the energy... I love being around it all... it definitely perks you up!

Great and Bad Memories

2009-11-20T10:20:00.006-08:00

So I geeked it up! Yep, I went to the "Star Wars: In Concert," and channeled my inner "Star Wars" geek and loved it! If you haven't seen the show yet and it comes anywhere near you, check it out!
Before the show I walked around and got tons of photos and I felt like a little kid again! I remembered that excitement I had when I saw the original "Star Wars," back when it was just "Star Wars" and not "Star Wars... episode IV a New Hope."

Inside the arena the stage was huge with lots of screens and as the concert started, I was quickly transformed back to 1977 when it all began. If you've followed this blog at all you know that this is the film that made me want to be a director.

As I sat in my seat, watching, listening to the score I was reminded how great John Williams is as a composer. All six of the "Star Wars," films were represented visually and musically. And to make everything special, Anthony Daniels aka "C-3PO" was live and did the narration throughout the show.

It was a great night to hear and see everything but at the same time, brought back terrible memories of the first three "Star Wars" films. I will say it over and over and over again... the first three films... the new ones... are horrible! You can tell, even during the concert, not by the score, which still was good, but by the visuals. George Lucas got away from telling a great story and integrating special effects carefully. "Star Wars," 1977 was for me the perfect blend of special effects, story and music. It still feels great when I watch it today. When I watch or see anything from the new three "Star Wars" films all I can see are poorly developed characters and entirely too much CGI!

Just look at some of the shots in space or in some of the ground battles and Lucas learned some new tricks and got some new toys and over did it. Too many layers of graphics, too many characters on the screen.

It was like he felt, "Oh there is some empty space on the screen in the upper left corner so let's put another 500 droids there fighting and that should fill up space."

He didn't need all of that! It just breaks my heart every time I see anything from the first three films.

Anyway, the concert was fun and I loved being there and hearing and seeing everything again. Kudos to John Williams and to George Lucas for creating a huge building block of my life.

Searching for a little inspiration...

2009-11-10T10:28:00.005-08:00

Decided to come out to my courtyard in my apartment complex to shake things up and do a little writing outside. For the what... 10th of November it's pretty warm out. I just have on a sweatshirt and hat and that's it. I mean I do have on sweat pants, I'm not entirely crazy. lol

So just watched, "Down by Law" by Jim Jarmusch. Good film, I really like his work and from time to time like to pull it up and watch. It's funny I started to listen to some of the DVD commentary and on it he talks about the fact that most of his films... at least at that time, were really funded from foreign sources and that "Down by Law," was on of the first American funded film. Now what makes this all interesting is that for years I've said his films have a distinct foreign feel to them, especially the early ones. Really long shots... periods of time when nothing seems to happen on screen, but allows the film to breathe. It's interesting to know that maybe some of that overseas money and what he watched growing into a filmmaker translated into an American Indie style that is very much more international.

I have always wondered if I looked at all of my films, you know... back to back to back. Throw in a couple of the shorts as well and I wonder if there would be a true, "Style?" I don't know. I want some more films under my belt before I start figuring those things out.

Anyway, need to knock out some work on the "3 Days..." dvd right now. Things are coming along nicely, I hope we're able to complete it fairly soon. We're not going to make a Christmas release, but when it is ready... I know you'll like it!

A Little Mobile Love!

2009-11-02T07:10:00.001-08:00

Out doing some work on a funky kind of a Monday. Today I'm at one of my favorite mobile office's, but not in one of my favorite seats in the office because others have had the nerve to sit there and get this... do some work! lol Nonetheless I'll bang out some work from this foreign position that has my left arm a little too close to the wall for my liking, but if that's all I have to worry about in this world I am so lucky!

So with my morning liquid courage... Grande Extra Hot Mocha that is and the Pandora Radio station jamming away with Teena Marie inspired artist for awhile befor switching to Sting, I'm knocking out this blog entry before settling in to some work on a couple of different projects.

Still lots to do for the special "3 Days..." DVD. Have a couple of scripts I really need to spend some time looking at and figuring out what I might want to do with them. I also have to resume my search for a writing agent, so that will get some priority this week. Then add in some editing back at home a little bit later and I've already got a full day of work lined up. Oh and I'm going to swing by the Doc's and pick up my flu shot... not sure if it's just a regular one or the Swine Flu shot, but I figured anything is better than having nothing!

So time to close out this post and get to work and if you ever see me in one of my mobile offices all over the world, stop by and say, "Hello!" I'll take a shot of you with me and put you in our blog!!!

A Good Day Working On the Past, Present And Future!

2009-10-28T13:16:00.005-07:00

So got a lot of work done today, which is always a great thing! Right now I'm working on the, "10th Anniversary: 3 Days... 3 Hours... 3 Minutes... 3 Seconds..." special DVD and it's going to be great!

I've been pouring through old footage, stills and so much more. The one thing I'm convinced of more than ever is that I had an amazing cast and crew around me for this film!

I am just blown away, every time I look at

it, see the work and it just takes me back to one of the best film experiences I've ever had.

There is still a lot left to do on this project. We're shooting for a Christmas release, but if we don't make it, then the first part of 2010 the film WILL be available on DVD.

Keep it locked in right here and you'll get the very latest information on the film.

Subtle Changes Are A Coming!

2009-10-27T07:03:00.004-07:00

On my way to one of my favorite mobile office's this morning, I wanted to let everyone know that there will be some subtle changes coming to, "The INSIDE Skinny" over the next several days. I'm in the process of tweaking it, just a bit. I hope the new look will keep you locked in and looking!

It's another wet and miserable day here in Silver Spring, the perfect day to hunker down and get some work done and that's exactly what I have to do! I can't keep saying I'm going to knock stuff out, but I have to do it... for real!

Part of the "doing it" is spending some time working on the "3 Days..." DVD that I was hoping to have ready by Christmas. I don't know if that will happen yet, because I'm still working on getting a couple of other elements for the DVD release that I think are important, so keep an eye out here for updates on that.

I also am in that weird place where I know I need to write, want to write, have some ideas to write, but have been in a little funk pushing myself to really sit down and type away. So far this year it's been pretty productive, one feature film complete and then a spec script for a half hour cable show, so all in all not bad. I do have a couple of ideas that I've started to flush out and a couple of more that I have in the back of my mind, I just need to get into that "writers" mode and after battling some elements of a cold over that last couple of weeks, it's been hard to really push myself, but hopefully I will before the year is out. Who knows, maybe I need to just drive 100 miles outside of town, get a hotel and lock myself up just to write!

Anyway, going to get to work now, but thanks for reading... drop a comment from time to time, it would be great to know there are folks out there checking this thing out. lol

A Great Film: Must See TV

2009-10-18T08:40:00.004-07:00

Whenever I see something that I think is really great, I like to alert folks to it. I just watched, "JFK: 3 Shots that Changed America," an amazing documentary on the assassination of John F. Kennedy.

I have seen a ton of footage concerning that day in Dallas. I've read the Warren Report and have been interested in the subject for years. This documentary about the incident and the time before and after is amazing.

Watching this film, I realized there is still so much footage I've never seen about that day and what went on in Dallas. You can watch the film on the History Channel and get more information on it at: www.history.com

Pushing Forward...

2009-10-14T07:15:00.001-07:00

Some days are just harder than others... today feels like one of those, but it is early, so I'm hoping things will pick up.

Generally I'm an upbeat person and and looking forward to the days challenges. For me each new day gives you a chance to work on yourself and do a little better than the day before. But every now and then, today being one of them, you just feel like you're in a funk that you can't shake.

I refuse to let it consume me, so I'll have this time this morning to let it run through my system, then later in the day I'm just going to have to put this funk out of it's misery and move on... I have things I want to accomplish in my life and in my career and I have to work a little harder at making those things come to fruition.

So... 60 minutes and counting, then "Funk" you have to go away today!

Out In Public Again

2009-10-06T08:13:00.001-07:00

It's been a little while since I've been able to get out and do some work because I've been battling a cold, but today was my first attempt to get out of the house and so far so good. Now if I can only get my computer back up to speed I will be happy.

I had some stupid person at Toshiba tell me I needed to do a full system reboot the other day and since then I've been spending hours trying to get all of my software back up and running. And just in case you were wondering, yes I back up... but right now that is an issue as well because Norton 360's files aren't restoring so I can access pictures or files... stuff that I've saved and backed up for years, so I've been spending hours and hours on the phone with them trying to figure out what the heck is going on and I am a pissed! Can you tell?

Helping Out the Planet & Doing Work!

2009-09-28T08:16:00.003-07:00

OK, so I'm helping out the planet by drinking out of the official "Mobile Office" coffee mug and not using a paper cup/plastic. My daughter gave me the cup for a birthday gift, so I try to use it whenever possible.

Today, lots to do because I have to continue some work on my "reel." Want to try to finish that up this week.

Also, trying to figure out which script to send on to a exec. at a studio in Hollywood. Had a good meeting with him a couple of weeks ago and he said, "Send me a script and I'll read it." So that's great news. Any time you can get someone connected in the biz to read your stuff, good or bad you'll learn a ton from them. Right now it's just figuring out what might be the best thing to send him. I'm almost tempted to write something specific, a new show... more network orientated, so we'll have to see. I'll look at what I have up and ready to go, see if I think it really gives someone a good feeling about who I am and send it off. If I don't like it, I'll sit down and write something this week and get it off.

So that's it from here right now... editing and writing pretty much all week!

Back to The Best!

2009-09-22T06:11:00.001-07:00

A chance to chill out and get some work done at my favorite "mobile office," in the area today. I also get to do it with one of my birthday gifts from my daughter, the Starbucks reusable coffee mug! Saving the environment as well, I wonder if I can write it off?

So lots of stuff from LA last week, still filtering through. I have a couple of series that I have in various forms, I think I'll take a stab at really flushing them out and see if I might be able to develop them into something really worthwhile.

I also need to send out another round of query letters to see if I might be able to land an agent for my writing. So lot's to do, never enough time, but a strong drive so let's get to work!

Back Home

2009-09-19T08:40:00.001-07:00

Well I am back from LA and look what was in the mail!

A 4th place finish in the SkyFest II festival for my new screenplay. OK so I didn't win it, but the project, "Student's Teacher," did win something and it has given me a little hope to send it out to a couple of other fests.

So Los Angeles was wild! It was non-stop from the time I landed, on my birthday the September 14th, through my flight back on Friday. I think I had at least two meetings a day, some times more!

I learned so much about "the business" out West and how you become a player for "real" in their world. Hopefully some of the lessons I learned will help me in the future. Now I'm not one to do a lot of name dropping, but I want to send out a special thanks to the folks at Warner Brothers, TNT, and HBO for giving me some of the best career advice I've ever had!

While I was on the Left Coast, I did get to do some fun things, including eating at a couple of my favorite hot spots and catching up with fellow Memphis Filmmaker Tony Flessas.

I've mentioned him before and right now he's living the dream! He's taking a shot and no matter what, you've always got to respect that. I hung out with him and his producing partner, "Bogey" in North Hollywood for a late lunch/early dinner.

When it was all said and done and I returned home, wouldn't you know it, my cable was down, they can't come and fix it for 4 days and half of the things that I had set to be recorded on my DVR... not recorded. Nothing like being hit in the mouth with reality right off the bat!

Doing Time on The Left Coast!

2009-09-15T10:26:00.004-07:00

Just time for a quick note, about to head into some meetings at Warner Bros. today. All day, should be interesting, I love being on a studio lot!

I did have a little bit of time to find a mobile office for a fix, now it's off to the meetings. Hopefully I'll have some more time over the next couple of days to drop an update or two!

P.S. One of the reasons I love LA, I'm sitting across from a woman who's having a meeting, I'm in the Disney Radio Network lobby and she's attractive, bu sporting major "Plumbers" crack and she doesn't even notice it! Her hair is bleached poorly and if she were younger, there would be no plumber crack, but a thong sticking out... gotta love this place!

Sneaking in Some Work

2009-09-05T12:01:00.002-07:00

On the first real day of college football, I'm sneaking in a little work before settling in for what should a great night of football.

A lot of stuff moving forward, but nothing major yet, hopefully there will be some news soon. Still tweaking some stuff and crunching ideas. It's that calm before the storm, I know the rest of the year will be big in some way, so this must be that quiet time.

Did just pick up a new drive to use to finish the special anniversary edition of "3 Days.." on. Just when I started and really got some of the extras ready, I ran out of space!!! I hate when that happens. Over the next day or so, I'll transfer stuff to the new drive and work on the project some more.

I'm also going to put together my director reel so I have something up that shows a little bit of everything that I've done over the years.

Can You Tell Where I Am? lol

2009-08-26T05:47:00.003-07:00

Out and about writing today, so life is good. In addition to some touch up work on a couple of things, still working on a couple of scripts, may even go back to one I wrote a while back that I've been slowly updating and making more current. I love the idea, it's a comedy and I think pretty funny, but you never really know until it's read out loud and hopefully made! I can remember the last two scripts I wrote and worked on... the first time they were read aloud with the cast was very exciting and powerful. Both were really funny, still we tweaked things right up to the shooting as well, the life of a script. But that first read... the emotions and excitement behind it, it's hard to beat.

Now those of you who follow my blog, know I always respect anyone who gets a film made, it's a huge accomplishment. That goes for the big folks as well and Quentin Tarantino is back in the mix with his new flick, "Inglourious Basterds." Now I saw him on Letterman the other night talk about the film and what he was hoping to do with it, essentially throw his hat in the old time genre of a group of guys going on a mission during World War II, ala the "Dirty Dozen." I've also seen both Brad Pitt and Mike Myers talk positively about the film as well, but to be fair, they're both in it and helping to feed the publicity machine.

However to me and this is just one person's opinion... I don't think it's his "Masterpiece." Some of the performances are outstanding, namely Christopher Waltz as "Hans" and Pitt as "Aldo Raine." There is no mistaking the look and feel of a Tarantino film and it's all there in this one as well, but for me the film is entirely too long and slow in some places. It misses it's mark about being one of those "Guys on a mission" film because it leaves the mission for a huge part of the film and almost has a separate storyline that takes away from the overall idea of the film.

I am also tired of Tarantino using graphic images of violence just for shock value and there are a lot of these in the film. I get that's his thing and he wants to take those 70s kind genres that weren't allowed to be as graphic and make them up-to-date and graphic now, but you don't always need it.

A lot of folks like the film, it was number one in the box office after the first weekend, but I suspect this will be one of those films that will be enhanced by the DVD with extras and more insight into what Tarantino was thinking about when making the film and what he was trying to do.

As a stand alone film right now however, it's good, but not great and maybe not even worth seeing on the big screen, but on a big screen television instead.

Off To The Mobile Office!

2009-08-19T07:43:00.001-07:00

It's been a hot second since I sat down and blogged so I wanted to throw up something so you all knew what's been going on and to just check in.

Right now I'm still tweaking and fiddling with scripts, both spec and the finished one. Also starting to play around with a couple of new ideas, we'll see how that all works out.

I've also been trying to watch a lot different things and get into the head of some other filmmakers. One of the best parts about DVDs for me are the extras. I love seeing the process that the filmmakers go through getting their projects to the screen.

Speaking of filmmakers, a friend of mine known to the world as Westland Armitage just finished his new short, "Trojans," take a look at it when you get a chance. He has a unique vision but more importantly, he continues to make films because of his love for the art and anyone who does that, you know gets my respect 24/7 365(6).

OK time to do some work, feeling a little funky today, but hopefully that will go away after a good session of writing and maybe a movie or two.

Out and About Again!

2009-08-11T06:36:00.002-07:00

For the first time in what seems like forever, I am out and about!

Over the last several days, I had been battling some kind of virus/flu and I think I've finally licked it. I wouldn't say I'm 100%, but I am definitely strong enough to get up and get out of the house for a little while and what better way to celebrate than to do a little work at my favorite mobile office! Now this particular one is not my fav of favs, but it's a solid one and truth be told one of the things I love about Starbucks is that for the most part I can get my Extra Hot Grande Mocha in Maryland, Tennessee, California or Boston and it's always going to taste the same. Some days that's all you want... that familiar aroma, taste and comfort.

So even though I've been under the weather, it hasn't completely stopped me from working. I'm still trying to get my spec script read and still trying to get my new feature script read. I'm keeping my head up on both fronts and hope that someone will take a chance to at least read something.

I've also started to work on some other scripts, some that I've had and a couple that are new. One of the other projects may take over at some point, but for right now I'm bouncing around getting a little done on a lot.

So that's the latest update, hopefully I'll have some more for you later in the week, but until then... time to get hacking away!

On The Road Again...

2009-08-06T07:19:00.001-07:00

On the road again at my new mobile office hang out, Mayorga Cafe. It's a rainy day outside, but some times those are the best to get work done.

After getting my new spec script registered with the WGA, I sent out a couple of query letters and have received a couple of responses already! Nothing major, one to record me reading the script on tape and then sending it to this particular agent so they can listen to it. (Does anyone still use cassette tape?) And then in typical Hollywood fashion, one shot me down right away, well they didn't even want to read the letter or listen or my logline for the script because they don't want to be perceived as stealing an idea. (Can you tell this one was a big Hollywood agency?)

Just once I'd like one of these agents or producers to at least read something of mine and THEN say oh it's no go, "thanks but no thanks" or better yet, "Hey we like your script when can we take a meeting and sign you up."

The hard part about writing a spec script is you put in time working on something for someone else. Today I'm going to tweak the script a bit and tighten it up, but this time may all go for not, because no one may even read it.

Instead of looking at it as doing it for no one else to see, I look at it as working on my skills. One of the things I've read over and over in books and interviews is no matter what, you HAVE to keep writing and I do believe that. Readers of this blog know my take on the writing process and I don't believe in forcing yourself to write everyday, but I do believe in the theory you have to keep working on your craft and you have to keep putting something to paper or in the modern day world, ideas to computer-computer to printer. The more you can write, the more styles you try, the better you can become and that's all I'm really trying to do, is get better.

So time to warm up my coffee, settle in for awhile and hack away!

An Exercise In Writing

2009-08-03T11:48:00.001-07:00

One of the things I hate about apartment life living is that from time to time you have to do things you don't normally like to do in order for them to fix or work on things. That was the case this morning as the apartment complex had to have it's annual gas inspection, so that meant no hot water from 9am to 3pm, so if you wanted to take any kind of a shower that meant up early because I had to get a workout in first and then I could get a shower in before 9am.

So after the workout and shower I decided to go grab something to eat and write at yet a different place today, this time Panera Bread. Again, not one of my favorite places to write, but something different and I need something different right now.

While at Panera I decided to do something I haven't done in a long time and that's write a spec script. Not only did I decide to write one, but I made a promise to myself that I wouldn't leave until I finished. Well not only did I finish, but this draft actually turned out to be a pretty good one.

I won't say the show right now because I am going to continue to work on it a bit and even try to get it read, but it's a half hour cable show I've watched a lot and know the characters. Still writing for someone else is always a tough thing to do and that in the end is why I think I went down this path today more than anything. If I am going to be a better writer, get signed or picked up by an agent, I want to be versatile and have the ability to do a lot of things so this was a step in honing in on those skills. We'll see how it ends up, but no matter what the fact that I was able to sit down and hammer out a decent script is a pretty good accomplishment for a Monday with no hot water!

The Writers Power Breakfast

2009-07-30T07:08:00.001-07:00

A scone, coffee, computer, iPod and a wild imagination... let's see if today will be productive!

Over the last couple of days I've done a really good job at working on the edit of my new script, which is not complete.

But I also have a couple of other scripts in various forms that I might start hacking at to keep the mind sharp and to continually work on the craft of screenwriting. And believe it or not... there are even a couple of more ideas that I should at least get down in note form.

My philosophy has always been, don't force writing, write when you feel it and just ride it for as long as you can, your body, mind and soul will tell you when you need to take a break, so I'm just riding this wave for as long as it goes!

A Great Edit!

2009-07-29T12:51:00.001-07:00

Completed! This version of the new script I believe is tighter and flows better. Still proud of it... still hoping to get it sold... but if not, when I get ready to put it into production... this version will sing!

Working In A Sea Of Noise!

2009-07-29T11:43:00.002-07:00

You've got to love construction! I'm at my desk working on my rewrite and battling through a sea of construction noise right outside. I opted not to go to one of my mobile offices today, I had the great idea to stay in an write!

In the end it will hopefully turn out well, I am getting a lot done and right now I'm just taking the noise outside, transforming it in my mind to the sounds of ocean waves cracking against the shore.

Time to write on!

Changing Things Up!

2009-07-27T07:24:00.001-07:00

For those of you who follow this blog, which I think for the record is only one person officially, you know that when I work outside of my home, I like to hack away at any one of my favorite mobile offices aka Starbucks. But every now and then I like to think... pardon the overused expression, "Outside of the Box," and today that is the case. Today I'm working at Mayorga Coffee Factory in Silver Spring. It's a different vibe here and for the most part, I enjoy working here from time to time. The one issue I do have is that their server goes down from time to time and if I'm working on the web, I lose things. But for the most part it's a cool place to work.

Currently I'm working on an edit of my new screenplay. I like where it is right now, but am always working on getting it a little tighter and stronger. I just got done reworking a scene to have it flow better and I really love the new feel of it.

Now on this blog I list what films I'm watching and of course there is the big "Library Project," I have going right now. (Making it through all of the films in my library) Last night in addition to watching a great German film, "Run Lola Run," I started watching a DVD compilation I have called, "Cult Classics." It came with my subscription to MovieMaker Magazine when I signed up last time. It's a collection of 20 films from the 30s, 40s and 50s. Last night I watched the first film called, "Marijuana Menace" or it's original title, "Assassin of Youth." I figure the more film I can watch, from every source possible... all of it will help me be a better filmmaker. MM, wasn't the strongest film in the world, but you can imagine that it was pretty scary or powerful back when it was made in 1937. I love watching these old films and seeing the sets and costumes and listening to the dialogue. I grew up watching films from the 40s and 50s so this is fun to look back even further.

So that's what's going on right now, lots to do and I like it that way. Hopefully I'll have some big news to pass along in the next couple of weeks, so keep an eye out. And for those who do actually read this... thanks!

Kicking It Old School

2009-07-21T10:03:00.001-07:00

Doing some work on a script with pen and paper! It's an old school approach, but some times the best way to get things done. Right now still trying to make it the best script I can and I do believe it may be the best script I've written, but I will always work to make it even better.

Usually what happens is, I'll get a script to what I think is about, 85% ready. And what that means is, it's a complete script and I like it and it's ready to shoot, but during the rehearsal process and I do like to rehearse before shooting, I'll tweak things even more. Part of the reason is because I always help my actors work on their characters and brings something to them that's not on the paper. And the other reason is because as you spend more time with the actors, you get a better sense of who they are and their own rhythms. If you can incorporate some of that into their character, I find their performance becomes even stronger.

So spending some time taking pen to paper right now, should help in the long run when this film gets made one day.

Crunching Numbers...

2009-07-14T08:34:00.001-07:00

(At my primary "Mobile Office")

So out and about, crunching some numbers regarding a possible project. This is always kind of a fun part because you can put in whatever numbers you like! Usually I try to put in the "dream numbers" then I do about 4 or 5 other budgets that range from the more "realistic" to the "drop dead minimum." You always hope you get your dream budget or something close, but you never know.

After doing some work here for awhile it's off to the AFI theater to see the Larry David film, "Whatever works." Any chance you get to see a film in a theater these days is always great!

Everything I Need... To Work At Least!

2009-07-08T07:08:00.001-07:00

(Mobile office time)

OK so it's been a little while since I've had some time to really sit down and update the blog, but who can blame me... my daughter was here for her summer visit and when she's in the mix it's all about her!

Now however it's back to work and that includes a plan for me latest screenplay. Still shopping it around, trying to get it read. But I'm also looking into what happens if I go it alone. I've done it before, I'll do it again so I'm not afraid of the proposition, but until I really crunch some numbers and do a little more research I'll reserve final judgment on that final step.

In the mean time, good news about a special project, the 10th Anniversary DVD of "3 Days... 3 Hours... 3 Minutes... 3 Seconds..." The initial post is going well and hopefully before the end of the year it will be ready for you to purchase. There will be a ton of special behind the scenes pieces I think you'll really enjoy, so stay tuned on that.

All in all, staying upbeat and pushing forward... after all that's what you have to do to make films as an Indie!

Motivation To Keep Writing

2009-06-25T07:37:00.003-07:00

I stopped doing full blown reviews a little while ago, but I did promise that when I saw something worth talking about I would post something about it and the other day I did see something... something I think anyone who is making films and has any dreams of doing it professionally should see. It's a documentary called, "Dreams on Spec."

The film centers around a group of struggling screenwriters and their progress at becoming working writers in L.A. What Makes it such a compelling film is not only their stories, but the interviews from established writers peppered throughout the film. As someone who writes and makes films, I totally understood some of their feelings and emotions. It's tough, but in the end for those of us who truly breath it and need it like someone needs oxygen, making films is feeds your soul.

The DVD extras are pretty good especially the section with additional interview footage from the established writers. Even if you don't make films, but want to get an idea of what it takes to write in the big leagues, this is a film worth seeing.

Now with all of that... it's time for me to stop blogging and time to start doing some writing... wish me luck!

It's Going To Be A Good Week!

2009-06-22T07:55:00.001-07:00

I've decided that no matter what, I'm going to try and make this a positive week. That means lots of hard work, that I hope will end up making this a good week.

Right now, I'm doing a little work at a new mobile office. I don't get out to this part of town... Rockville actually, but this office is a nice one. Lot's of outlets and room. The only downside, really small tables to write and drink your coffee on. But this is going to be a good week, so that's not going to slow me down at all!

Last week sent out some more query letters for the new script and as of right now, nothing back from anyone. So, sticking with the theme, I'm going to say that no news is good news! I'll probably spend some time over the next day or so hammering out some more and just trying to get someone to take a chance, or at least get their readers to take a chance to flip through my screenplay. I like it and it has a real edgy vibe and when it gets into the right hands could be a very hot project. Now of course I'd love to find someone who wants to help me make the film so I can direct, but I do realize that this is "Show Business," so I if someone just wants to buy purchase the rights, we can talk.

I am starting to feel that itch... that itch when I know it's time to do something... make a film. Hopefully this will be... no it WILL be a good year so I can get something in production before 2010... at least that's the plan!

Filmmakers Share A Moment At SilverDocs

2009-06-17T11:29:00.001-07:00

Filmmakers M. David Lee III on the left and Murray Fredericks on the right. Fredericks has a brilliant film at SilverDocs this year called, "SALT" You can also check out his photography at www.murrayfredericks.com.au

It's always hard for docs to get screen time especially shorts, but SilverDocs does a great job with their festival. In addition to "Salt," which I can't tell you enough how good it is there were a couple others on the shorts fest that stood out as well: "POCKETS," by James Lee, no relations and "POSTE RESTANTE " by Marcel Lozinski.

Supporting Indie Film

2009-06-17T09:10:00.001-07:00

Hanging at SilverDocs, checking out the shorts program and showing my support to my fellow Indie filmmakers.

Plus it's a great excuse to see anything at the main theater of AFI.

Shaking Off Some Funk & Working Hard!

2009-06-09T08:37:00.003-07:00

As you can tell, out at the mobile office again and that's probably a good thing. Nice to write and work from other locations from time to time. Let's get you up to date on some stuff.

My copy of the "Hollywood Creative Directory" arrived and I've already started to put it to good use. I have a screenplay that is ready to go and I'm trying to take it through the "traditional" Hollywood channels, so the new book is helpful to at least get my initial query letters to the right people. I'm trying both the agent route and production companies. I have to get one or two people to actually read the sucker and then I think I have a good shot! I've had a couple of people I respect read the script, some in the biz some out and they all say the second they start to read it, that it's a "page turner," they didn't want to put it down until it was over! So that's good news!

Sticking with the script I also entered it into my first screenplay contest, so we'll see how it does there as well. But at the same time, I'm not just throwing my eggs in one basket. I continue to work on a couple of other screenplays and this month I'm going to begin the 10th Anniversary DVD of our smash film, "3 Days... 3 Hours... 3 Minutes... 3 Seconds..." Look for that, just in time for Christmas!

So there is a lot going on. I'm pushing forward on a lot of different things and I stand by my belief that if you throw enough darts at the wall, one of them is bound to stick!

IMDb & Triple Sticks Productions Team Up

2009-05-31T12:06:00.007-07:00

Good news folks, you can now catch the trailers for, "Dog Me: Potluck" and "Slow Down... You're Dating Too Fast!" on IMDb!

Those in the business, know how important IMDb is and those outside... well for anyone who's made a movie, not just playing around at it, getting your film listed on IMDb is huge because everyone in the industry checks this site.

Both films are really good and you can purchase them at www.triplestickspro.com I urge you if you can to pick one up and help support independent film. Also you can watch "Dog Me: Potluck" on Netflix. Just type in the title, put it in your queue and wait for it to arrive in your mailbox, it's just that simple!

So to everyone who worked on both films, congratulations on the trailers and IMDb! You worked so hard and I am so proud of everything you've done!

Stepping Away... For Now

2009-05-27T07:31:00.003-07:00

OK I took a look at the "blog" I've got going here and it turned out to be a lot of reviews. I didn't and don't want this to be a review blog, so I'm going to shut it down... the reviewing that is for awhile. Unless a film really stands out that I have to say something, I'm not going to review everything I see. However I will still update "My Library Project" and "What I'm Watching," so you get a feel for what shapes my film life so to speak.

Now this doesn't mean there will be no more blog, on the contrary. I want to spend a little more time talking about film, talking about what's going on with Triple Sticks Productions and hopefully, this year will turn out even better than last, so we'll have tons to discuss.

Anyway, if you're anyone who chimes in and reads this thing at all thanks... and I'll be in touch soon!

Funny In Any Language!

2009-05-22T09:05:00.003-07:00

**** 05.21.09 – Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown... 1988... Director Pedro Almadovar

I saw this film for the first time in one of my favorite theaters of all time, the "Minor" theater in Arcata, California. I remember seeing the trailer for it during another film and it just blew me away. The film lived up to the trailer and it still does today.

This was also my first Almadovar film and I've been a fan of his ever since. The story is great, the performances spot on and it's funny, as the film was starting I was thinking to myself I wonder how you can tell if the acting is really good because I don't speak Spanish so basically you're reading subtitles and I can't tell per say. Then the first part of the film... actually about folks doing voice over work for foreign films, dubbing English language films to Spanish.

Not at lot of extras on the DVD, but the trailer is there. You will notice a very young Antonio Banderas in a key supporting role in the film, so that's kind of nice.

This is the kind of film that if you have a glass of wine and cuddle up on the couch, it's a perfect date film! For the record however I watched it alone last night. :)

One Great... One Not So Great... You Make The Call!

2009-05-21T13:03:00.004-07:00

* 05.20.09 – Breakfast at Tiffany’s... 1961... Director Blake Edwards

I have to admit, while I’ve always been aware of this film… Audrey Hepburn and all, I had never seen it. Further, I was aware of the fact that it came from a Truman Capote novella, also which I had never read.

My friend, who I’ll change here to “Edwina” to protect their identity, loves this film! It’s one of their favorites of all time and they saw the movie first, and then read the book.

Trying to shake things up in my world, thanks to a gift from “Edwina,” a copy of the novella Breakfast at Tiffany’s, I decided I would read the book first then see the movie… a little exercise if you will.

Well the book and the film are NOT THE SAME IN ANY WAY! Yes the titles are the same, the names of most of the characters are the same, and it does take place in the city so nice, they named it twice New York, NY, but after that the film crushed me. I was so excited about this plan, because I like Truman Capote and the images of Audrey Hepburn in this film are iconic, the film Directed by Blake Edwards veers so far away from the novella it’s not even funny to me.

When I read the novella I had an image in my mind about everything and the feeling of the book is much, much darker than the light and airy version of the film. I won’t go into too many details here, but if you do a little surfing around the Net, you will find that Capote did not like the treatment of his story at all on the screen and with good reason.

I understand the time period in which the film was made. I understand the “Hays Code” was in effect in Hollywood and that filmmakers were not going to be able to be as true to the novella as they should, but the changes they made to give it the old, “Hollywood Touch” stripped away the heart and soul of the picture. And the role Mickey Rooney played in the film… well all I will say about that is that it is one of the most racist I’ve ever seen.

The DVD extras are the strength of this film because they give you some insight into some of the changes, but after watching everything you’re definitely going to want to surf the web and get additional information.

My advice to you when it comes to this film… read the novella first, then see the film because that’s where it all began, afterwards… come to your own conclusions and see whether or not we’re really that far apart. Sorry “ Edwina”… although Hepburn DID look marvelous!

****1/2 05.19.09 – The Big Chill... 1983... Director Lawrence Kasdan

It had been some time since I last watched, “The Big Chill” and I was just in “that kind of a mood” when I pulled it out to screen it. And once again, it did not disappoint!

The writing… the screenplay stands out as much as the amazing cast in this film. The themes and subject matter in the film crosses generational lines and is today, still relevant.
The DVD extras are great, including a look back at the making of the film. Fun stories about what happened during their shoot and more, all worthwhile, including some deleted scenes from the final cut.

The “Big Chill” is the kind of movie you can turn on any time, sit back relax and relate it to your own life and enjoy.

Four Films... Three Worth Seeing!

2009-05-18T13:23:00.011-07:00

** 05.18.09 - 21... 2008... Director Robert Luketic

This film is truly a 1980's throwback with a little "Ocean's Eleven" thrown in for good measure. 21 feels like a John Hughes/"Brat Pack" kind of a film, complete with the awkward geek love affair plus a James Spader bad little rich kid look-a-like.

Kevin Spacey is one of the stars of the film and he is solid as usual. I saw it on cable for free and it was worth about that.

**** 05.17.09 - The Negotiator... 1998... Director F. Gary Gray

Director F. Gary Gray's film is brilliant. Samuel L. Jackson and Kevin Spacey are outstanding in this film along with the rest of a stellar cast. Using the city of Chicago in the film was great, because it becomes another character.

The DVD has a lot on it, including a wonderful interview with the director about the overall project.

***** 05.16.09 - Dog Me: Potluck... 2003... Director M. David Lee III

In all fairness and in the spirit of full disclosure, this is my film and the more I watch it the more I love it. The performances make me laugh over and over again and when I look back at the behind-the-scenes documentary on the making of the film, I'm reminded of what fun we all had making the film. It was long, hot, hard, but I wouldn't trade it for anything else in the world!

*** 1/2 05.16.09 - Pulp Fiction... 1994... Director Quentin Tarantino

It's one of Tarantino's best film and it gives you a clear look at his earlier style and what he was all about. Great dialogue, smart performances, well shot it's worth taking a look at again if you haven't seen it in awhile.

The star of a Tarantino film, tends to be the script and that's the case with Pulp Fiction. My DVD didn't have any extras, but it was still good to watch.

So How Do You Write?

2009-05-15T09:16:00.001-07:00

A friend of mine asked me recently, “How do I write?” And what she meant by that, is how do I choose what to work on when I come to one of my Mobile Offices… like today.(05.14.05)

Well for me it’s all about writing when you feel like it. I am a firm believer that you have to write when you feel it, when you have that muse and you want to sit down and spend some time hacking away. Now there are others who believe you need to sit down every day and hammer something out, but that for the most part doesn't work for me.

(The tools of the trade, computer, drink, Ipod, view)

Now when I’m rewriting something or near the start of production and I have to tighten a script, I can write that way, but we’re not really talking about that here.

So for me, what usually happens is I come to my office, sit down and start looking at my projects that I have in various stages and whatever one speaks to me that day I start working on. Now this is for the first draft usually. The first draft is always the hardest for me to complete, but once I’ve done that, then I start working that story over and over again until it’s ready to show someone.

Once I finally have one or two people that I trust read it and I get their notes, I’ll work it over and over again until it’s, what I call “production ready.” And for me, that means it’s time to try to pitch it to someone or in most cases it’s time for me to start putting the film in production and making it.

I’ve often wondered what it might be like to be on the staff of a show or something where you have deadlines and had to write to get things done at a certain time. I do think I probably would be pretty good at it, because I can write under pressure, but in my own way. I could probably hammer out a full version of a film script in less than a week, but I also would probably be a mess by the end of it and a lot of it would be written at home… you know... where I can write naked… one of my favorite things to do! Just keeping it real folks!

One Interesting Day of Films

2009-05-15T08:43:00.006-07:00

*** 1/2 05.13.09 - Frankenstein... 1931... Director James Whale

I remember being a little kid and seeing this version of Frankenstein and being terrified! I was scared, but I loved it at the same time. The monster was amazing and Boris Karloff was the best! It was all a part of the Universal Monsters, Frankenstein, the Mummy, and the Werewolf. I loved them all, but Frankenstein was the one that kicked it off for me.

Director James Whale for the most part does a marvelous job of adapting Mary Shelly’s story to screen. There are some major jumps in the story and a lot of stuff left out that could have made the story and the film more complex, but I don’t think that was deal with films back then at this time.

Karloff is outstanding as the Monster, but as I look at it now the film holds up in some areas and in others stumbles a bit. The acting is very stiff, almost like if you were doing a parody of 1930’s acting, this is what it would be like. (Considering this was made in 1931, that make sense) The film is also surprisingly short, only 71 minutes long, barely a feature.

Now my DVD has some extras on it and the commentary by film historian Rudy Behlmer that accompanies the film is very good. I’ve just ordered the 75th Anniversary version of the film, because there are a couple of documentaries on the making of the film that I want to see, so I’ll update you when that comes in.

All in all, I still love the film and this was another influence in me becoming a filmmaker so it will always hold a special place in my heart.

** 05.13.09 - Sex with Strangers... 1002... Directors Harry and Joe Gantz

I am very open-minded about a lot of things and that includes sex, but for those in the “Swingers” lifestyle, I felt a little sorry for you with this documentary.

First, “Sex with Strangers,” does a pretty good job of following three different couples in the lifestyle and their ups and downs with it. I think it will give those on the outside looking in some interesting things to think about before they decide whether or not to try it.

But where the film falls a little short or rather scares me, is the fact that the couples in the film are all very, very scary . Kind of hard to really explain without offended a ton of people, but I think if you decide to see the film, you’ll get what I mean, but just remember ALL swingers are NOT like these folks! Lol

The DVD has some good extras and the guys who created HBO’s “Taxicab Confessions,” made this documentary so kudos to them for at least helping to expose this lifestyle to the world. The more we all see what’s out there in life, the more tolerant we can all be of each other.