Tuesday, December 19, 2006

LFF Thanks!




Thanks to all who came out and supported the Li'l Film Festival 4 on Saturday. Independent filmmaking in the Mid-South relies on all of you.

Special thanks to star Amber O'Daniels who is utterly amazing. And another special thanks to her co-star, the fully reliable Markus 'King Indie' Seaberry who is second to nobody in his love and dedication to films and filmmaking. And further thanks to the supporting cast and my family for large amounts of indulgence.

Let us also heap praise on LiveFromMemphis.com which created and sustains not only Li'l Film Fest but is committed to making the most of the creative class in this region. And of course the hard-working Shelby County Film and TV Commission -- Linn and Sharon -- deserve kudos for being there and nurturing the spirit.

So OK, but what's next.

Hey, don't rush me, I'm working on it.

Friday, December 15, 2006

Li'l Film Fest Saturday

From today's CA:


The fourth and final Li'l Film Fest for 2006 takes place at 2 p.m. at the MeDiA Co-op theater at First Congregational Church, 1000 S. Cooper. Sponsored by Live from Memphis, a Web site devoted to art, film and music, this year-end minifest showcases "Politically Incorrect Holidays" with 10 shorts by local filmmakers, including such titles as "Adopt a Freak Day," "Happy Artistic Freedom Day" and "Santa Claus vs. Kung Fu Baby." Thanks to the sponsorship of the Memphis & Shelby County Film Commission, winners of the festival's "Audience Choice Award" and "Jury Award" each will receive a $200 prize.

Admission is free. Visit livefrommemphis.com or call 523-9763.

Thursday, December 14, 2006

Casting: In An Instant

'In An Instant' feature

CAST & CREW search for Film - National Distribution Home DVD
PRINCIPAL PHOTOGRAPHY begins ASAP the month of DECEMBER.

Email headshots, resume, links to website w/demo reels to
BeAboutit@arnitawilliams.com. Include INSTANT FEATURE in Subject Line

CREW
Producers
Line producers
Casting Directors
Camera Operator
Production Assistants
Wardrobe
Make-up
Hair Stylist
Light Technicians
Sound Technicians
Props
Set Decorators
Location Mgr/Loc.Scouts

CAST
Principal/Dayplayer /Background Roles
This is a story about a close knit family that all become suspects in
the mysterious death of the twin sister's mischievous pro-ball
playing husband. Was his sudden death an accident or a planned
incident? Suspense Drama, Mystery, Deception, and Murder?

Kyra - Twin Sister Married. Already Cast

Kristine- Twin Sister Attorney. Already Cast

Devin- Husband, Very Handsome, Athletic, Very Fit and very tall Late
20's early 30's. Ability to play Sports a plus. Lead

Mr. Cook- Twin's father- Handsome fit Male must look 40-60s. Principal

Mrs. Cook- Twins mother- Female must look 40-50. Principal

Ron (Kristine's Fiance)- Very Attractive Male, Late 20's or early
30's

Tiffany- Beautiful, model type, Scandalous Preganant Girl, Blonde
Caucasian- Young looking adult college age

Stacy- Groupie Girls,Sexy, Attractive Model Types. Principal

Kelly- Groupie Girl, Sexy, Attractive Model Type. Principal

Groupie Girls.(2) Young Adult, Sexy, Attractive Model Type All
Ethnicities. Featured

Isaiah- Kyra's Good Male Friend, Any Ethnicity, Tall Handsome,
Articulate, Fit, Lead.

Judge - Mature professional looking

Attorney(3)- Mature professional looking male and female

Jury Members (12) Adults,Any ethnicity, Any Gender. Featured

Police Investigators( 2)

Doctors- 2 male or female

Nurse- 1 male or female
Lab Technician -male or female

www.ArnitaWilliams.com
213-403-4001

Tuesday, December 12, 2006

Actress between 21-28 (nudity)

Seeking actress Between the ages of 21 and 28. This is for a horror film that already has a distribution deal. Actress will be given a good deferment deal. Race not an issue.
Must be willing to be nude and must be willing to be covered in gore.

The piece is called "Touching you" and it is part of a project called "the sick"
Contact Timm Scalita at scalita1@hotmail.com or at myspace.com/scalita1

Monday, December 11, 2006

Li'l Film Fest lineup -- coming Saturday

Live From Memphis™ is announcing the 4th and final round of Li’l Film Fest for 2006. The festival is Saturday, December 16, 2006 at 2pm at the Memphis Digital Arts Co-operative (1000 S. Cooper Memphis, TN 38104).

LFM thanks the Memphis & Shelby County Film & Television Commission for their support of the Li’l Film Fest: Beginning this quarter, they have generously agreed to provide the awards for the festival, including a new “Jury Award” (in addition to the “Audience Choice Award”). That’s right, we now have 2 awards to give away!!

The following is a list of accepted films and filmmakers:

"Happy Artistic Freedom Day" Jon W. Sparks
"Hot Wheels Night" C. Scott McCoy
"Help a Heathen Day" Patrick Niedzwiedz
"My Little Gingerbread" Alice McLallen & Will Hendricks
"Rationalization Day" Adam Remsen
"Adopt a Freak Day" Byerly, Scalita, & Craig
"Kung Fu Baby vs. Santa Clause" Nick Ross
"George and Martha" Donald Meyers
"25 Feet From Love” Razor Teeth
“Conversion Tactics” Christopher Reyes

The event is free and open to the public; Live From Memphis and the MeDiA Co-op will be accepting donations. Support Local Filmmakers! For More information about the LI’L FILM FEST please visit: http://www.livefrommemphis.com/filmfest or give us a call: 523-9763.

Li’l Film Fest is a new kind of festival, highlighting local talent while showcasing interesting happenings around town. Here’s how the festival works: Every 3 months LFM staff members announce a new theme to the filmmaking community. Filmmakers then put their own unique spin on producing a short film.

The theme for the fourth Li’l Film Fest is “politically incorrect holidays,” meaning that each film submission must somehow relate to that topic. The winners will each be awarded a $200 cash prize and will also be guaranteed a spot in the next Indie Memphis Film Festival. Additionally, the li'l films must not exceed 5 minutes in length.

Live From Memphis™ supports and promotes local musicians, filmmakers, artists, creative businesses, and organizations. It is our mission to connect creatives, grow opportunity, and gain exposure for our creative culture. Please help support our local community by joining, donating, or simply spreading the word.

Wednesday: Micro Cenema Club (free!)

Indie Memphis, organizer of the annual Soul of Southern Film Festival, is featuring works from NextFrame, the University Film and Video Association’s (UFVA) touring festival of international student film and video at the next Micro Cinema Club screening, Wednesday, December 13, 7:30 p.m., Power House gallery, 45 G.E. Patterson. Admission is free and open to everyone.

The December 13 lineup will feature 10 short animated films:

FUGA (Fugue), a man’s encounter with childhood and fleeting memories, directed by Or Moran of the Bezalel Academy of Art & Design, Israel.

Unwilled Inheritance: A Portrait of Three Generations, provides an emotional look at the filmmakers’ distant relationship with his father that is meticulously hand-crafted. Directed by Nathan Broaddus of Hampshire College, MA, this short took second place in the 2006 festival.

Ring of Fire, directed by Rini Yun Keagy of Temple University, PA, explores the shape of things as a volcano loses its head in Indonesia.

Flight, directed by Andrew Allen of University of Washington, WA, provides a condensed history of aviation and man’s fascination in reaching the skies.

In a Distance, But Within View, directed by You-Jin Lee from Rhode Island School of Design, RI, is a visual poem in short stop animation.

Garbus (Hunchback), directed by Joanna Polak, Akademia Sztuk Pieknych, Poland, is a poignant tale about society’s outcast noted for its moving black and white hand-drawn animation.

Latent Sorrow, directed by Shon Kim, of Cal Arts, CA, fuses the abstract with the literal.

Monster, directed by Michaela Ostadalova, Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts, Slovakia, and 2006 first place winner, highlights the moment when you discover a monster in your house.

Say Yesss, directed by Christopher Thomas, Temple University, PA, takes a close look at insect love.

Telekontar, directed by Galit Weisberg, Tel-Hai Rodman College, Israel, follows an alien in his journey through malicious yet enchanting landscapes.

NextFrame, now in its fifteenth year, is recognized as the world’s premiere touring festival for showcasing student work and promising visionaries of the next generation of filmmaking. For more information about NextFrame, visit www.temple.edu/nextframe .

The Indie Memphis Micro Cinema Club is focused on showing short films—those that are shorter in length than a feature film—of independent filmmakers from across the globe to promote indie artists and expose audiences to the diverse array of interesting films that before now have never made it to the Memphis market. The Micro Cinema Club is held the second Wednesday of every month at 7:30 p.m. in the Power House, admission is free. December’s screening is approximately 60 minutes with popcorn and beverages provided. Donations are recommended.

Thursday, December 7, 2006

Smart City on indie movies

Worth your time is a visit to the Smart City Memphis blog.

It reports that the organization CEOs For Cities has issued City Vitals -- indicators about the largest 50 MSA’s in several categories.

An excerpt:
Memphis tended to rank in the lower middle in most of the rankings, but in the category of distinctiveness, we recorded our strong marks. One of these was the Weirdness Index where we were 19th among the 50 metro areas.

In ... the distinctiveness category, Memphis achieved its highest ranking - #4 in the category of “Movie Variety.” For this, cities were ranked according to their variances between local movie attendance and national movie attendance for the top 60 motion pictures nationally. Perhaps, here, we should call this the Craig Brewer Factor, because clearly, Memphians are drawn to off-beat, indie productions, which should be a pretty obvious hint to the competitive beachhead we could establish in that industry.

Wednesday, December 6, 2006

Li'l Film Fest 4 -- Dec. 16

Li'l Film Fest 4: "Politically Incorrect Holidays" is just around the corner!!

The li'l fest will be on Satruday, December 16th at 2pm. The fest will be held at the MeDiA Co-op. Come on out and join us in celebrating the end of our first year - Support local filmmakers.

Toast to Living History on Thursday

In celebration of some of the esteemed artisans in our community, True Story Pictures is hosting “A Toast to Living History: The Arts Interviews DVD Release Party & Wine Tasting,” on Thursday, December 7th from 5:30 to 8:30pm in the main gallery at Memphis College of Art in Overton Park. The public is invited to attend.

This dynamic event will celebrate Memphis artists Billy Price Carroll, Larry Edwards, George Hunt, Dick Knowles, Marjorie Liebman, Veda Reed, Murray Riss, Ted Rust, Dolph Smith, Agnes Stark, Mahaffey White, Ernest Withers, and Steve Yee. These artists will be the honored guests for the evening, and event attendees will have an opportunity to meet them and offer them a celebratory toast to their accomplishments.

The event will offer a tasting of the fine wines of Bernardus Winery in Carmel Valley – the Marinus, Pinot Noir, and Sauvignon Blanc - and savory hors d’oeuvres, cheeses, and desserts selected for their pairing with the wines. Attendees will be able to purchase the newly released DVDs of The Arts Interviews: Series One, in which the artists discuss their lives and creative work. These beautifully designed DVDs (there are 10 DVDs in Series One) each feature an individual artist and include an in-depth video interview and a slide show of the artist’s work.

At the event, attendees will also be able to view an on-going presentation of The Arts Interviews documentary (a compilation that includes highlights from each of the interviews), which will be showing on a loop in two different rooms off the main gallery.

Advance tickets may be purchased for $25, or you can get tickets for $30 at the door. To purchase tickets online, go to http://www.truestorypictures.org/special_event.html or call Joann Self, Founder and Executive Director of True Story Pictures, at (901) 274-9092. Parking for the event is free at Memphis College of Art and in the Overton Park area.

Event sponsors are: Tennessee Arts Commission, Greater Memphis Arts Council, Junior League of Memphis, Memphis College of Art, Bernardus Winery, and Jaco-Bryant Printers.

True Story Pictures is non-profit organization with a mission to build relationships and preserve community history by documenting and sharing life stories. Find out more at www.truestorypictures.org.

Monday, December 4, 2006

LTTM: Best of 2006

This month LTTM will be airing a "Best of 2006" episode where we show the films that created the most buzz on our web site, email and in the film community. The following films will be shown in December:
Ad Man - (from episode 2) Directed by Chad Schaffler, Iddo Patt, and Kaleo Quenzer.

The Galapagos Brothers
- (from episode 1) Directed by C.R. Smithmier.

The Scot and the Aussie: First Meeting - (from episode 3) Directed by Jerome Bethea and Travis Palmer.

Split Decision - (from episode 1) Directed by Ashley Fowler.

Music for ending credits - The First Christmas - by Nancy Apple and Johnny Surber

Be sure to look for the bonus film at the end of the credits:

Million Dollar Boots - A music video directed by Old School Pictures featuring Lord T and Eloise with a special appearance by Al Kapone.

Screen test for future feature film Victorious

For more info or to enter a film, go here.

Check with the Library Channel web site or our web site for scheduling info. This is a weekly schedule that will begin on December 4th.

Thanks to all entrants. Remember, just because your film was not selected for this month, it does not mean it won't be shown in a future episode. This is a monthly program.

Friday, December 1, 2006

Studio nixed

From the CA story by David Williams and John Beifuss:

Village Roadshow Pictures, a film company behind the Matrix trilogy and other hits, won't be opening a regional headquarters in Memphis.

The company's request for $5 million in city-county incentives, plus increased state incentives above those already flowing from 2006 film legislation, doomed a deal that had been in negotiations for months. It had been touted since the summer as a potential entertainment and economic coup, creating a stream of made-in-Memphis films and some $250 million in production spending over five years.

"It was an innovative concept if the terms had been realistic and workable, but they weren't," said Linn Sitler, Memphis and Shelby County Film & Television commissioner.

The company's proposed terms were rejected Wednesday in a letter to Greg Basser, CEO of Village Roadshow Entertainment Group USA, from Sitler and Tennessee Film, Entertainment and Music Commission executive director David Bennett.

Bennett said the Memphis initiative was never a priority for Village Roadshow. Asked if the company was seriously thinking of opening production facilities in Memphis, he said: "I don't think so. I think there was a possibility that it could have occurred if they had gotten everything they had asked for ...

"We don't throw money out in advance to bait companies to come here, and that's basically what they were asking for. It's typical of an economic development deal that the company coming in asks for the moon and sees if they can get it."

Wednesday's letter noted that Village Roadshow was seeking incentives that "would rank among the most generous granted by any state in this country."

In the letter and in a phone interview, Sitler expressed the hope that Memphis and Village Roadshow could "partner successfully at a later date," perhaps resulting in the company shooting a movie here.

But it appears there was no chance of local and state government accepting Village Roadshow's terms for the regional headquarters: "It's asking for too much," Sitler said.

In addition to seeking city-county funding and increased state incentives, Village Roadshow apparently halved the amount of money it would spend in-state to $125 million over five years.

Also, according to Village Roadshow's proposed terms, the company wouldn't guarantee in-state spending. Instead, it used such phrases as "with a goal of" and "every effort will be used."

But Rey Flemings, who led the Village Roadshow recruitment when he was president of the nonprofit Memphis Music Foundation, disagreed with Bennett.

"Village Roadshow's interest in getting this done was sincere," Flemings said. "They're a global company. Whenever they look at doing significant blocks of production, they have to weigh all of the financial incentives."

Flemings left the foundation in September to join Justin Timberlake's organization as the homegrown pop star seeks to relaunch Stax Records.

The Stax relaunch -- which has yet to be officially announced -- would be a partnership with California-based Concord Music Group, whose owners -- Norman Lear and Hal Gaba -- own part of Village Roadshow.

Brewer's 'Moan' going to Sundance

Memphis filmmaker Craig Brewer will return to the Sundance Film Festival for the premiere of "Black Snake Moan," the $13 million followup to his Oscar-winning "Hustle & Flow," festival officials announced Thursday. The festival is Jan. 18-28 in Park City, Utah.

"Black Snake," with Samuel L. Jackson, Christina Ricci and a host of Memphis talent -- is one of 17 movies screening in the out-of-competition "Premieres" category of the festival, devoted to "the latest work from established American and international directors."

There's more at John Beifuss' blog.

Thanks and oops

Thanks to those hardy souls who came to the screening of Memphis Muck and the incredible 2006 Music Video collection produced by Live From Memphis. I apologize again for the technical snafu that only let us see about two thirds of the Muck doc. The software and hardware perpetrators are being tried in a sham court and will be executed immediately upon sentencing.

Very special thanks to Christopher Reyes and Sarah Fleming of Live From Memphis for providing the Music Videos that were screened last month at the Indie Memphis Film Festival. You can see those videos here, but there was nothing like seeing them on the semi-big screen at the MeDiA Co-op. Directors John Michael McCarthy, Christopher Reyes, Clayton Hurley, Banner Gwin and Waheed alQawasmi were among several contributing work that was innovative, startling and memorable.

Another significant thank you to the MeDiA Co-op for being what it is. It provides space and resources for film makers and film lovers. It's been an essential part of the Memphis indie movie community and deserves your support (especially the financial kind).

Nashville Film Fest: deadline extended

Nashville Film Festival is extending 2007 Call For Entries deadline for all Tennessee filmmakers.

Includes YOUNG FILMMAKER (18 yrs and under) and MUSIC VIDEO categories.
Director must be a current resident of TN.

TN Filmmaker Deadline: January 1, 2007

Entry Fee:
Under 40 min....................$45
40 min. and over...............$60
Music Video.......................$20
Young Filmmaker..............$15


Tennessee Independent Spirit Award
Sponsored by the Tennessee Film, Music, and Entertainment Commission, this award acknowledges the best film (in any category) made by a Tennessee resident. Winner receives a cash prize of $1000.

Best Young Filmmaker Award
(Filmmakers 18 and under) Director of film chosen for this award receives a $3000 scholarship to Watkins Film School (Nashville, TN). (Open to all Young Filmmaker submissions.)

NEW AWARD: Rosetta Miller-Perry Award for Best Film by a Black Filmmaker
Acknowledges the best film (in any category) by a black director.
Winner receives a cash prize of $500.

To submit your film, visit nashvillefilmfestival.org for entry form and complete details. You can submit through withoutabox.com or download a PDF version of our entry form. If submitting through Withoutabox you will need to indicate you have received a DEADLINE WAIVER in order to submit.

Wednesday, November 29, 2006

Correction: Southern Comfort is invitation only!

The made-in-Memphis "Southern Comfort" is playing this Saturday but it is invitation only. This is my mistake: I posted the info without doublechecking, so my apologies to all who hoped to go based on my posting.

There is only the one screening and because of limited seating, only cast and crew who were involved in the entire production are able to get invitations.

Tuesday, November 28, 2006

'Streaker' trailer

Locally shot and submitted to Sundance -- here's the trailer for "Streaker" done by award-winning filmmaker and former Disney animator, Lee McCaulla.

Monday, November 20, 2006

A night of Memphis music videos

Thursday Nov. 30 will be a great night of Memphis music on video. There will be a presentation of the documentary "Memphis Muck" -- a freewheeling look at the Muck Sticky Revue with local bands El Dorado and the Ruckus, Taco & da Mofos and Muck Sticky, all performing and talking about their music. Following the 30-minute documentary is the Live From Memphis 2006 Music Video Showcase, featuring 24 of the most amazing music videos of local bands by local directors. Both "Memphis Muck" and the Showcase were in last month's Indie Memphis Film Festival, so come and see what you missed or enjoy them again.

Showtime is Thursday, Nov. 30 at 7 pm at the MeDiA Co-op (1000 S. Cooper). It's $3 at the door.


The following is an alphabetical list of Music Videos and filmmakers:

200 Sachen
“Champagne For Breakfast”
dir. J. Michael McCarthy
Description: Sony Band based in Weisbaden who sings in German. This is the second video of 200 Sachen by Mike McCarthy and Wheat Buckley.

Arma Secreta
“Segue/Debris”
dir. Clayton Hurley
Description: Memphis’ most calculating indie rockers unveil their much anticipated action rock video “Segue/Debris,” the firs off their new record A Century’s Remains. Shot entirely on green-screen. Produced, directed, and animated by Clayton Hurley.

The Central Standards
“So Much Clearer”
dir. Waheed AlQawasmi
Description: A tale of lost love and regrets. Shot and edited in a style that serves to mirror the songs message of a blurred past and clearer present.

Chess Club
“Devastortion”
dir. Amy Frazier
Description: A rough and tumble self indulgent stab at life with new beat overtones and
a pocket full of synthesizers.

Christopher Reyes
“In Ways Ungraceful”
dir. Christopher Reyes & Garrett Ammon
Description: A combination of experimental music, dance, and video; choreographed by Garrett Ammon, performed by Ballet Memphis, shot and edited by Christopher Reyes.

Clanky’s Nub
“Linchpin”
dir. G.B. Shannon
Description: A psychedelicly clad experimental video – just the kind you would expect from the rockin’ Nub-sters. How ‘bout that drum solo, Jay?!

Evil Army
“Friday the 13th”
dir. Geoffrey Brent Shrewsbury
Description: Evil Army, Memphis’ premier thrash band, makes their music video debut with this visual rendition of their song, “Friday the 13th.” It’s hard and raw, just the way you like it.

Helen Stellar
“I.O.”
dir. Banner Gwin
Description: Shot in one night on borrowed equipment and donated 35mm short ends, this music video was written, directed and produced by former Memphian Banner Gwin, a 1999 graduate of Lausanne Collegiate School. The short semi-narrative story explores empathy and second chances in an almost surreal situation. Inspired by the music of Helen Stellar, and this song in particular, Gwin presented his concept to the band and not only did they approve the idea and treatment, they agreed to appear as the cast.

Jung Shin
“In The End”
dir. Galen Gower
Description: A simplistic look at emotions and the process of forgiveness.

Lord T. & Eloise
“Million Dollar Boots”
dir. Old School Pictures
Description: Rappers Lord T. and Eloise get aristo-crunk in their music video debut!

Lucero
“Banks of the Arkansas”
dir. Live From Memphis
Description: Live music video shot at the Young Ave. Deli.

Mr. Sche
“Front Me Somethin’”
dir. Marc A. Dokes
Description: “Front Me Something” shows the aberage life of a street orientated black man struggling against political power and himself. The will to do right is overcastted by the need to survive. The streets can either make or break him, but with nothing to loose or gain, what choice does he have other than to hustle?

Muck Sticky
“Thingy Thing”
dir. Muck Sticky
Description: Does a Muck Stick video really need a description?

Mung
“Can You Hear Me Now?”
dir. Sarah Fleming
Description: Mung, late for their gig, drive recklessly through the streets of Memphis.

Olga
“Now is the Time”
dir. J. Michael McCarthy
Description: Music video for Olga’s new album and title track, “Now is the Time,” in stores now!

Organ Thief
“Psychochauffeur”
dir. Christopher Reyes
Description: A psychedelic ride through hell; starring Kirk Rawlings and Brian Costner (from Organ Theif) with special guest appearance by the psycho chauffeur himself – John Pickle.

Reigning Sound
“Bad Man”
dir. Live From Memphis
Description: An excerpt from the Goner Fest 2 DVD produced and directed by Sarah Fleming and Christopher Reyes.

Secret Service
“Teenage Mustache”
dir. Live From Memphis
Description: Live music video shot at Memphis’ own Buccaneer!

Skillet
“Rebirthing”
dir. Darren Doane
Description: The first music video off their new album “Comatose,” this song asserts the belief that we are all deserving of a second chance.

So Serious featuring Tavious
“Me and You”
dir. Catina L. Johnson
Description: This video is about a young woman working as a dancer because she wants the finer things in life, but she has a boyfriend who doesn’t appreciate her. The Artist spots her from across the room and wants to be with her.

Souvenir Satellite
“This Circle”
dir. John Paul Clark
Description: A tale of man, his memories, and mass destruction.

Ty Brown
“Life Goes On”
dir. Waheed AlQawasmi
Description: A personal music video that takes you through a journey told by the artist.

The Willowz
“Equation #2”
dir. J. Michael McCarthy
Description: There’s a photo of Elvis with a fand in 1956 and he’s signed her hand. I took this notion to the extreme in that the girl never washed her hand and eventually became insane. I wanted to do it as a short, but when this weird music presented itself I wrapped the idea around it.

The Willowz
“Making Certain”
dir. H.G. Ray

Saturday, November 18, 2006

Nashville Film Festival call for entries

MISSED THE DEADLINE? There's Still a Chance... WAB Extended Deadline 11/30/06

Call For Entries
Nashville Film Festival
April 19-26, 2007

LAST CHANCE!!

WITHOUTABOX EXTENDED DEADLINE: (POSTMARKED BY) NOVEMBER 30, 2006
Chosen by MovieMaker Magazine as one of "20 Film Festivals Worth The Entry Fee."

NASHVILLE FILM FESTIVAL (NaFF) proudly announces its 38th
international competition for features, shorts, documentaries,
animation, experimental work, music videos and young filmmaker
videos.
NAFF also features children & family-themed films, special sections
for Tennessee filmmakers, archival screenings, gay & lesbian-themed
films, workshops, panel discussions, music showcases, and guest
appearances by nationally recognized figures in the film and music
worlds. All styles, genres and lengths of films are accepted.
TOP PRIZE FOR FEATURES - _Selected as one of the "Best Film Festival
Prizes" in FILM FESTIVAL TODAY_
The Regal Cinemas/Nashville Film Festival Dreammaker Award, entitles
the winning feature film to a industry/press screening in a Los
Angeles County Regal Cinema.
TOP PRIZE - SHORTS AND ANIMATION
First prizes in the Short Narrative, Animation, College Student
Short Narrative, and College Student Animation categories qualify the
winning films for Academy Award consideration.

SPECIAL _MUSIC FILMS IN MUSIC CITY_ AWARDS
Nashville Film Festival celebrates Music City's heritage with
unique music and film awards: BEST MUSIC IN A FEATURE FILM, to
recognize particularly effective or innovative uses of music, whether
through original score, imaginative musical arrangements, or songs in
a feature; and the IMPACT OF MUSIC AWARD, for the film (feature or
documentary) that most effectively explores or celebrates the impact
of music on the human experience.

*NEW AWARDS*
Nashville Public Television (NPT) Human Spirit Award acknowledges
the film (feature or documentary) that best captures the human
spirit and illuminates, in a high artistic manner, the most
important characteristics of humanity. Winner receives $1000 cash
award and will be broadcast on NPT. (All rights must be cleared for
broadcast on local public TV.)
Best Young Filmmaker Award (for filmmakers 18 and under) receives a
$3000 scholarship to Watkins Film School (Nashville, TN).
See the complete list of awards at nashvillefilmfestival.org

ENTRIES UNDER 40 MIN....................$55 (WAB Members- $40)
ENTRIES 40 MIN. AND OVER...............$70 (WAB Members- $55)_
(All deadlines are 'POSTMARKED BY' deadlines)


CLICK ON WITHOUTABOX.COM BANNER TO APPLY.
_ OR CONTACT US AT:_
Nashville Film Festival
Phone: (615) 742-2500
Fax: (615) 742-1004
e-mail: info@nashvillefilmfestival.org

Wednesday, November 15, 2006

You ugly?

The Country Music Television (CMT) program THE ULTIMATE COYOTE UGLY SEARCH will be holding auditions in Memphis on Sunday Dec. 3rd. For more information and to register visit www.touchdowntv.com/coyotesearch

Thursday, November 9, 2006

Extras needed Saturday

The shoot is Nov 11th outside of Hernando MS. It starts at 5 pm and we will wrap it up asap. If you would please wear a mask or halloween costume -- if not we will still be happy to have you there. Bring layers as it will be cold and we will also have a bonfire.

We are filming a feature length film on HD. This is independent and there will be no pay but lots of fun and a chance to meet more people in the acting community. The director is Jeremy Benson and his last film was Shutter.

This is a horror film but this scene is just a happy party scene.

There will be snacks and beverages.

Let me know if you are in and how many people you are bringing (jennycomans@yahoo.com).

The directions are from Memphis:

Take I-55 South to Jackson MS

Get off on I-69/304 exit to Tunica MS

Get off on Hwy 301 exit and take a left

Turn right on Hwy 304, (there is a green gas station on your left at the intersection of 301 & 304)

Pass Woodland Lake sign on your left, Then Woodland lake sign on your right

At edge of woods and begining of fields there is a street on your left named Kelly Road, turn left

Take your second Left which is Woodland Lake

Follow the road staying left. When the road dead ends we will show you where to park.

Ask for Jeannette Comans or Scarlet Williams

Please let me know if you will be there, we should not need you more than 2 hours.
but you if know movies there is a chance you will be there shorter or longer

Thanks

Wednesday, November 8, 2006

You've got to 'Muck'

But wait, there's more! After you "Eat"** this Saturday, come back to the Co-op for dessert on Nov. 30 to see "Memphis Muck" (and more).

The documentary chronicles a night at the New Daisy with the Muck Sticky Revue. There's performance footage and an interview with Muck who discusses his group and his philosophy**. You'll also enjoy performances and interviews with the evening's other acts: the amazing El Dorado and the Ruckus, the good time band Taco & da Mofos and the inexplicable Mr. Safety.

It's 30 minutes of giddy fun and there will be a special screening afterwards of ... well, we're still in secret discussions. But it will be at the MeDiA Co-op, 7 pm on Thursday, Nov. 30.

For a preview, tune in or Tivo Channel 3's "Live at 9" tomorrow (Thursday) and see Muck, Momma Sticky, Hollywood and me.


Jon W. Sparks
Memphis Cool Productions
jonwsparks@gmail.com

** I prefer quotations around titles, following the AP Style Book. I gave up on italics long ago. Yes, I'm an editor.
***
Adults only, please.
† I am clueless.
† That's 9 a.m.

You've got to 'Eat'


Make a date for a special** screening of "Eat"*** Saturday, November 11 at the Media Co-Op at the First Congregational Church at 1000 S. Cooper. Showtime is 7 PM, cover is $5, running time is 87:43. Spread the word, bring your friends†, bask in the glory, email with questions.

Yours in humble gratitude for all the fine performances,

Chris McCoy
Oddly Buoyant Productions
mail@oddlybuoyant.com

** "special" in this case meaning...absolutely nothing.
*** I really prefer italicizing movie titles, as has been convention for at least a century. But that's so hit or miss with email clients I have surrendered to the quotation mark. Yes, I'm an editor.
† Friends, family, acquaintances, people you tolerate but view with quiet suspicion, rivals, blood enemies... I don't care, just bring 'em.

Wednesday, November 1, 2006

LTTM schedule for November

Last Train to Memphis Entertainment would like to announce the November line up for LTTM's Shorts Festival on WYPL-18. These films will begin airing November 6th:

The Players:

The Diner - directed by Shawn McCully, Michael Prada and Marc Hall
Ninja This! - directed by 16 year old, Zach Raw
The Ancient One - directed by Don Meyers
Timmy - directed by Marc Hall
Lightning Strikes Twice - directed by Todd Roberts
Music for ending credits- Paco T performed by FreeWorld

Also, be sure to catch the bonus film at the end of our show's credits -
Baby It's You - A music video featuring Melissa Raper and the Greyhounds.

The Times:
Sunday - 12 midnight
Thursday - 2am
Thursday - 10:30pm
Saturday - 1:30am
Saturday - 11pm

Thanks to all the entrants. Remember, just because your film was not selected for this episode, doesn't mean it won't be in a future episode. If you would like to submit a film/doc/music video/animation go to: LastTrainToMemphis.com and click on the festival link. Be sure to check out our newly launched Memphis Uncensored section. We have received several requests for a place on our web site to watch films from previous episodes. Memphis Uncensored is a showcase of films from previous episodes, plus some that were to risque for the show. We didn't forget you music lovers, our Musician's Corner showcases songs we have played for the ending credits of each episode.

Be sure to tune in to WYPL-18 for some excellent independent short films and music throughout the month of November!

Tuesday, October 31, 2006

Delta Axis upcoming

From exec. director Tracy Lauritzen Wright:

On Wednesday, Delta Axis resumes the monthly Indie Memphis Micro Cinema Club with program #23 on (November 1, at 7:30 p.m.) at Power House. Just in case you don’t get your Halloween fill tonight, we’re presenting Microcinema International’s Independent Exposure 2006 - Halloweird Edition. This is an assorted collection of weird, creepy, gross, odd and strange shorts made by moving image artists from around the world.

On Friday, November 10th we open our last Power House exhibition of the year with a reception from 6-8 p.m. We are thrilled to present Wangechi Mutu, sleeping heads lie, an exhibition exploring Western symbols of power using collage, the female body and site-specific installation.

Thursday, November 16th we resume the monthly Artist Studio Visits with Nancy Cheairs. This program is 6-7 p.m. and advance registration is encouraged. Please call 578-5545 to register for this visit and receive location details and directions.

Also, stop by the delta axis @ marshall arts exhibition, Fuzion 3.0: Taking on hip-hop, featuring new work by 13 members of the NIA artist collective. The gallery is open Saturdays, 1-5 p.m.

Monday, October 30, 2006

Casting for "Let's Ride"

Here are some press releases for this production that's planning to
shoot in November:

NEW FILM SEARCHES FOR NEW STARS IN MEMPHIS
Local Hollywood Hopefuls Will Audition for Let's Ride

The search is on for fresh new faces for the new film Let's Ride,
which is preparing to shoot in Memphis in a matter of weeks. Monica
Cooper, a Los Angeles Casting Director, will be arriving in Memphis
later this week, preparing to audition local actors for open roles.

"What better way to capture the essence of a community than work
intimately with its talent." Ms. Cooper responds. "I am looking
forward to seeing all Memphis has to offer."

Ms. Cooper will be searching for a wide variety of local talent to
play some principal roles, day player roles and a wide variety of
extras that are 18 & older. Headshots and Resumes will be accepted by
electronic submission to monicacoopercasting@comcast.net or by sending
hardcopies to Monica Cooper - Let's Ride, C/O The Memphis Film
Commission, 50 Peabody Place, Suite 250, Memphis, TN 38103

Currently attached to the film is Ray J, who plays Freestyle, know
most recently for his character D-Mack on the television show 'One on
One'; Shar Jackson of 'Moesha' fame, playing the role of Erika; Texas
Battle, of 'Coach Carter' will be playing the straight laced ATL;
funny man "Grapevine" from 'Cuts' and 'One on One' plays the chocolate
candy loving Big Hershey; Ronnie Alvarez, of High School Musical, who
will play Nico; Edward Barbanell, who enjoyed his rolled 'The Ringer',
will be playing Wolverine and JoMarie Payton as the Dean. They are
looking forward not only to their time in Memphis, but working with
the fresh new talent Memphis has to offer.

Let's Ride will begin principal photography in Memphis, TN in
November. This hilarious comedy which is along the lines of THERE'S
SOMETHING ABOUT MARY and ROAD TRIP, follows characters ATL, Freestyle,
Big Hershey and Nico, on the road as they travel to the ultimate fun
of Freaknik in Atlanta Georgia.



October 15, 2006, Memphis: It was announced today that the film "Let's
Ride" will begin principal photography in Memphis, TN in November.
After careful consideration of multiple locations, cast & crew were
delighted to hear they would be spending the next two months enjoying
the friendship of the community that warmly encouraged them to bring
the film to the south.

"We were so moved by the extended hand of the Film Commissioner and
Mayor Herenton to bring our film to town, we felt Memphis would be a
home away from home." states Producer Tony Smith. "The Memphis &
Shelby County Film and Television Commission have been committed to
making every part of our project effortless and have worked to make us
feel right at home."

"Let's Ride" is a hilarious comedy along the lines of THERE'S
SOMETHING ABOUT MARY and ROAD TRIP. It follows characters ATL,
Freestyle, Big Hershey and Nico, on their road to the ultimate fun of
Freaknik, along with the stress of Cousin Erika's goal of not only
being the first in her family to graduate from college, but graduating
from the rich tradition of Spellman College.

"When we are on location for extended periods of time, the stress of
being away from loved ones can take a toll on a production." Director
Dale S. Lewis explains. "The community of Memphis made us feel like we
were welcome and that makes all the difference in the world to my
actors and crew."

Cast members able to be reached, Ray J, playing Freestyle, Shar
Jackson, playing the role of Erika, funny man "Grapevine" as Big
Hershey, Ronnie Alvarez, of High School Musical, who will play Nico
and JoMarie Payton as the Dean, are looking forward to their time in
Memphis.

About the director:
Dale S. Lewis began his career as a UCLA film student, working as an
Assistant Editor on the set of Terry McMillan's "Disappearing Acts",
as well as "The Source" and the "Soul Train Music Awards". Lewis
further honed his craft as a Director, Assistant Director and Editor,
on more than 30 productions, ranging from Jeep Cherokee to Sketcher
commercials. The marketplace then recognized his self-established
company; DGL Entertainment (formerly known as Image is Everything
Productions), implementing his directorial vision with contracts to do
PSA's for the American Heart Association, Alert and Instructional
Videos for the infamous Latin Dance Company, Salsa Brava.

As a result of proving himself as 2nd Unit Director and Editor for
"The Big Black Comedy Show" hosted by Monique (The Parker's, Queens of
Comedy, Two Can Play That Game and The Beauty Shop), Lewis procured
one of his projects as the Director and Editor for the Disney
television pilot "Keke and Jamel" and UPN's "Second Time Around".
Lewis's prolific imagi- nation and resourcefulness is showcased via
his introspective look at America's urban underbelly; an artistic
"Dark"umentary entitled "The Other Side", that depicts the harsh
sometimes hopeless reality of the inner city residents in his native
city, Philadelphia. This Documentary provided a new home for Lewis as
a Def Filmmaker (simmonslathan.com), under the umbrella of Russell
Simmons and Stan Lathan, whose stellar reputations, professional
accomplishments and talents are stratospheric for bringing the best of
what urban entertainment has to offer through the works of emerging
auteurs.

At his core, Dale S. Lewis, is a compassionate, spirited, visionary
with heart. Lewis keeps his vision fresh and on the cutting edge by
not limiting himself to a specific genre of production. Lewis recently
completed a feature film entitled "Julius Home" and a 30 min short
film "Near Mrs". In addition, he is directing the musical "Church
Fight"- set to begin its national tour March 2006 and also set to
Direct the television pilot "The Grace Family". Lastly, Lewis is
currently in the research phase of development, as he prepares to
direct the feature film about the world of Fashion entitled "Rags",
produced by Fashion Mogul Tommy Hilfiger.

About the producer:
With his calling set in motion over 15 years ago, Tony Smith has
enjoyed a film & music career to be proud of. Early in his profession,
Smith produced soundtracks for such projects as "Snow Taxi", featuring
artists K.B. and Liza. His strong ability to merge the world of music
and acting, led him to produce the highly acclaimed musical, "Black
Olive", along with fellow Executive Producer, Cedric the Entertainer.

As a result of his strong alliances and keen business sense, he has
successfully joined ranks with Showtime, Sony, Universal,
Simmons-Lathan and 20th Century Fox to name a few. He has found
himself responsible for nurturing, advising and managing the promising
careers of a few up-and-coming young recording artists, directors and
television/screen stars. His relentless drive and trained ear for
excellence in music production was sought out to score Russell
Simmons's highly anticipated television series "Hip Hop Justice," "Hip
Hop Laws of Success," and hip hop themed "Yoga Live."

Tony continued to expand his talents by forming 'A Street
Productions', bringing his dream of producing feature films to
fruition, with successful films, such as "Gas", "The Big Black Comedy
Show" series which airs on Showtime in 2006 and "Julius Home" with an
expected release in summer 2007.

Smith has enjoyed recognition from The Hollywood Reporter as he
continues to grow and become a highly sought after producer. He is
currently working with Tommy Hilfiger in the final stages of
development for the feature film "Rags", which takes a look into the
behind-the-scenes exploits of the fashion industry. The movie is
expected to start production in 2007. In addition to the film, Smith
is currently producing the Reality TV show "The Paper Boyz", starring
rich Hilfiger and MJ Lewis. Smith continues his efforts in
pre-production with a film project entitled "Let's Ride", a comedic
look at 3 college friends and their road trip experience to
'Freaknick' and has signed to develop a screenplay based on the true
life story of Angelo Ales and the most scandalous ponsy scheme the
United States has seen, DFJ Italia.

One thing about Smith you can count on is the unimaginable drive to
break new ground and keep his audience wanting more.

Friday, October 27, 2006

Extras - Nov. 11

Extras needed Nov. 11 at 7 pm. It'll be a bonfire party and costumes/masks are encouraged but not necessary. Location TBA. Contact jennycomans@yahoo.com

Saturday, October 21, 2006

Running Gag auditions

Running Gag Improv will be holding auditions for troupe members on
Sunday, October 29 at 6pm in the Galloway Coffeehouse (lower level of
Galloway Methodist Church), located at 1015 South Cooper, at the
corner of Cooper and Walker (use street level entrance on Walker).

For information, contact Troupe Director Drew Massengale at 230.0304,
or send him an email to memphisrunninggag@yahoo.com

Friday, October 20, 2006

Auditions this Saturday

A reminder that auditions for 'The Rabbit's Prayer' will be held tomorrow. This could be your chance to snag a lead/starring role in a SAG project alongside recognizable industry talent . Crew inquiries will also be accepted at the auditions.

Story Line: Three travelers journey to the fictitious town of Riverton in the Depression era South. Each carrying a different, secret goal which together will ignite a spiritual awakening, a spiritual death and a long awaited judgment.

Jeanie - Starring / FEMALE / 18 TO 22 / Caucasian

Naive, innocent, shy, petite young adult without much direction in life; looking instead for others to guide the way. She is calm, contemplative and short on words. As the story progresses and Jeanie communes with her naturalistic environs, she will experience a spiritiual awakening. Her characterization will define the narrative's core.

Foster - Starring / MALE / 45 TO 55 / Caucasian

A Baptist preacher who acts as a self imposed father figure to the two other main characters. His faith is strong to the point of fallacy. He is full of songs and saying, folksy wisdom and religious ambition.

Harper - Starring / MALE / 20 TO 23 / Caucasian

A tormented young man who believes in little other than the weight of his own conscience. He is Jeanie's companion and is desperate for the promise of new work in the town of Riverton.

It will be produced under the Screen Actor's Guild Ultra Low Budget Agreement. SAG as well as non-union performers are welcomed to audition. Casting will also take place in Los Angeles.

For sides and/or more information, please send an email to: therabbitsprayer@hotmail.com

Auditions will be held 1-5 p.m. on Oct. 21st, 2006 at First Congo Church, 1000 S. Cooper, Memphis, TN 38104. Please enter via the handicapped ramps.

Thursday, October 19, 2006

"Nobody" is something!

There's a compelling documentary tonight at Indie Memphis -- "Nobody" by local filmmakers Lance Murphey and Alan Spearman. Here's Michael Donahue's story in the CA, and here's another from the Memphis Flyer on what it calls this "don't miss" project that won the Hometowner award for best doc. Also check out John Beifuss' observations on his blog. See it!

Wednesday, October 18, 2006

Cramps can be fun

Here's a production you might be familiar with. Kudos to all involved, as well as the estimable Dr. Fardel.

Kid extras needed

Slacker Films is currently looking for extras in their upcoming short film. Needed are children who are dressed in their halloween costumes. Shoot dates are November 4th & 5th. Please e-mail me contact information, headshots, resume and what you will be for Halloween. Please e-mail it to omggal123@aol.com no later than Monday, October 23, 2006. Please no phone calls. You will be contacted ASAP if your child is chosen. (no pay).

Curse you, Indie Memphis!

It's enough to make you crazy. This year's Indie Memphis Film Festival has sellout screenings (Eat, Come Early Morning, Grim Sweeper) and customers walking out (the disturbing, potent Delusions) . It's got hometowner and out of towner gems. It's got new talent and old.

And like any well-told tale, it's got conflict. It's been happening every night since it started Friday and continues tonight and through Thursday night. You've got to choose what to see and what to miss.

Tonight:
Theater 16, 6:30, Art From the Street (DOC)
8:15, Send in the Clown (Feature)
Theater 18, 6:15, Severance (Feature), 8:30 A Reel Man (DOC)

For me, the big one is the finale Thursday when the Hometowner documentary winner "Nobody" premieres at 8:45 pm in Muvico theater 16 (see Chris Davis's Flyer story here) while John Michael McCarthy's "Memphcentric" retrospective explodes at 9 pm. I've got personal interest in both, but as we know, there's no multitasking in the multiplex. The laws of physics say you can only consume one nacho plate in one auditorium at one time.

I'll see you there, somewhere.

(David Williams has a cool CA story on Mike here.)

Tuesday, October 17, 2006

Tonight: Garage; Grim Sweeper; Just the 2 of Us; What Goes Around

Oh, it's tough. Indie Memphis doesn't make it easy when all these good projects are running opposite each other.

At Theater 16 at 6:30 is "The Garage" and at 8:30 "Grim Sweeper" (Blood, brains, guts, stains and love by Edward Valibus Phillips).

Then at Theater 18 at 6:15 is "Just the Two of Us" (Keenon Nikita's winner of Hometowner feature and American Artist Film Fest in Kansas City grand prize) and at 8:45 is "What Goes Around" by Rod Pitts, winner of the new AVID Promising Filmmaker Award.

Read about 'em here and make your choice.

Monday, October 16, 2006

He quotes Thoreau and talks about his ding-a-ling




So come see "Memphis Muck" tonight at 8:30 at Muvico in Peabody Place.
Big Fun.

Casting for two horror films

Forrest Pruett is casting two local horror movies to be filmed locally. If interested, send your headshots and resumes to forrestpruett@gmail.com. Details on the projects will be coming shortly.

"Memphis Muck" and "Delusions" tonight

My documentary "Memphis Muck" -- featuring Muck Sticky, El Dorado and the Ruckus, Taco & da Mofos and Mr. Safety -- screens at Muvico at Peabody Place at 8:30 pm Monday.

This amazing production (yes, I am shameless) is a half-hour roller-coaster ride of music, interviews and zaniness. Along with some great licks, there's commentary by Muck Sticky, El Dorado del Rey, Matt Danger, DJ Natty Batty, Robert 'Taco' Moore, Charlie Eaves and Mr. Safety (who does some penis shtick, so leave the kids at home).

Go here for the trailer -- a one minute and 49 second sampler of the wonderfulness you'll see.

But wait, there's more!

After the doc, and on the same ticket, is a screening of "Delusions," a powerful story by director Robert Saba with Muck Sticky and his sidekick Hollywood in roles like you've never seen. Tickets are $6.50 for both and you can park in the Peabody Place garage and get your parking ticket stamped when you get your festival tickets.

Celebrate Memphis music and Memphis moviemakers!

Sunday, October 15, 2006

Indie Memphis on radio

Tune those radios!

Monday morning I'll be pitching "Memphis Muck" with the Wake Up Crew on Rock103.

And Corduroy Wednesday will be on the airwaves pitching Grim Sweeper Monday pm WREC News Radio AM600 around 7:10 AM -- it's a live interview with Grim Sweeper director, Edward Valibus Phillips. And then Tuesday Oct. 17 listen to Q 107.5 fm morning show with Karson and Kennedy as Edward Valibus Phillips and actor Benjamin Rednour will be on air!

The winners are...

Here is Beifuss' story on the Indie Memphis award winners. Congratulations to Keenon Nikita, Rod Pitts, Lance Murphey, Alan Spearman, Iddo Patt, Chad Schaffler, Kaleo Quenzer, Joey Lauren Adams, Terry Kinney, Sean Pamphilon, Royce Toni, Sherri Larson, Banner Gwin and Clayton Hurley.

And big thanks to Les Edwards, Linn Sitler, Craig Brewer, Christopher Reyes, Sarah Fleming, Adam Hohenberg, Delta Axis and the amazing volunteers who make Indie Memphis happen.

Friday, October 13, 2006

Beifuss on Indie Memphis

In today's CA, Beifuss writes and blogs about the Indie Memphis Film Festival. He also has a story about the Alloy Orchestra.

Thursday, October 12, 2006

Flyer on Indie Memphis

The Memphis Flyer Online has a big package on the Indie Memphis Film Festival. Cover is on the outstanding documentary "Nobody" by Lance Murphey and Alan Spearman, both photographers with The Commercial Appeal, who worked five years on the project.

Beifuss on Joey Lauren Adams

Joey Lauren Adams, director of Come Early Morning at the Indie Memphis Film Fest, is interviewed by John Beifuss in this article in the CA.

"The $3.5 million movie -- shot over 25 days last year, mostly in Little Rock and North Little Rock -- screens at 8 p.m. Friday at Muvico's Peabody Place 22 as the opening-night feature for the 9th annual Indie Memphis Film Festival. Adams will introduce the film and answer questions afterward; actor Ray McKinnon ("Deadwood"), who appears in the movie as a preacher, also will attend the screening."

Also in the film are Memphians Nancy Ellen Mills and Ann Marie Hall.

Wednesday, October 11, 2006

Trailers for Indie Memphis

A selection of trailers of upcoming projects is here. Thanks Les and Hugo!

One-person play workshop

Free Workshop on one-person plays. John Maxwell will conduct a workshop on writing and
performing one-person plays. The workshop will be held at from 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. at The Powerhouse--Oxford Mississippi--on Saturday, October 14. Space is limited. To register, call 662-236-6429 or e-mail lnwdesigns@msn.com. Participants should bring pen and paper.

Tuesday, October 10, 2006

Indie Memphis: volunteer dates and times

Indie Memphis is almost entirely volunteer run. We appreciate those in the community who can give their time during the festival to help make it a success. Volunteer opportunities include staffing the festival and special events, distribution of promotional materials, selling merchandise, transportation and more. Perks include free tickets to movies, parties and more. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact volunteer coordinator, Saralyn Williams at anthrograd23@yahoo.com or info@indiememphis.com or call (901) 246-7086.

Volunteer Needs:

Note: an earlier post had incorrect dates; these are corrected:

Friday, October 13
5pm-9pm
9pm - 12am

Saturday, October 14
12:30pm-5pm
5pm-9pm
9pm-12am

Sunday, October 15
12:30pm-5pm
5pm-9pm

Monday, October 16
5:30pm-8:30pm

Tuesday, October 17
5:30pm-8:30pm

Wednesday, October 18
5:30pm-8:30pm
5:30pm-10pm

Thursday, October 19
5:30pm-8:30pm
5:30pm-10pm

Monday, October 9, 2006

Indie Film Fest -- the lowdown

On Friday, October 13 the ninth annual Indie Memphis Film Festival, a project of Delta Axis, opens at Muvico 22 Theaters in Peabody Place and runs through Thursday, October 19. Just under 100 films will be screened at the weeklong event, which celebrates hometown filmmakers and southern film.

Note: Due to the film festival there will be no Indie Memphis Micro Cinema Club in October. Micro Cinema Club will resume on Wednesday, November 1st at 7:30 at Power House.

Highlights of the 2006 Soul of Southern Film Festival include:

Come Early Morning, the opening night film screening Friday, October 13 at 8 p.m. This writing and directing debut of actress Joey Lauren Adams, a native of Little Rock and known for her memorable performance in Chasing Amy, for which she was nominated for a Golden Globe Best Actress award, stars Ashley Judd, and was an official selection of the 2006 Sundance Film Festival.

Alloy Orchestra, a three-man musical ensemble performs a live soundtrack to a restored print of the 1925 silent film, Phantom of the Opera, starring Lon Chaney on Saturday, October 14 at 8 p.m. This film has a special ticket price of $15 per person. Festival and Six Pack Pass Holders are guaranteed tickets (see below for ticket information).

Phil Chambliss is a self-taught filmmaker from East Camden, Arkansas, who has written, directed, shot, edited and scored 27 films over the last three decades. Chambliss has developed a cult following from San Francisco to London. Phil Chambliss: Auteur from Arkansas features three narrative shorts and screens Saturday, October 14 at 5:15 p.m. Filmmaker will be present.

Live From Memphis Music Video Showcase screens for the second year on Saturday, October 14, at 9 p.m., featuring 24 music videos by local musicians and filmmakers.

A Reel Man, documentary by director Todd Lothery features the story and collection of Skip Elsheimer, a.k.a. the A/V Geek, a collector of a vast archive of educational films. Elsheimer will be in attendance at the festival and following the screening of his biographical documentary on Wednesday, October 18 at 8:30 p.m., will show a selection of rarely seen 16-mm films from his collection.

The 2006 Indie Memphis Film Festival is pleased to present the most Hometowner features ever presented in Festival history. Of the eight Hometown Features to be screened, narrative features Eat directed by C. Scott McCoy, The Importance of Being Russell by Sean Plemmons, and documentary feature, Nobody by Alan Spearman and Lance Murphey are sure to resonate with Memphis audiences.

Each year the Indie Memphis Film Festival presents workshops that are free and open to the public. This year’s workshops are Working with SAGIndie on Saturday, October 14 at 11 a.m. and The Personal Documentary on Sunday, October 15 at 12:30 p.m. SAGIndie will address ways for filmmakers to use SAG actors regardless of their budget and walk filmmakers through the SAG Low-Budget Agreement. The Personal Documentary brings back Indie Memphis favorite, Kelley Baker, who will discuss how to take the little moments in life and make award winning films out of them for fun and profit.

Individual tickets may be purchased through the Muvico box office and Web site, www.muvico.com, for $6.50 each. Festival passes, allowing admission to all films screened during the week are $60 per person, and Six-Pack Passes are $30 per person and allow admission to six films over the week. Passes are available at the Indie Memphis counter at the entrance to the theaters on the upper level at Peabody Place.

For more information and a full festival schedule, go here.

Free tickets! Parties! Be an insider!

Indie Memphis is almost entirely volunteer run. We appreciate those in the community who can give their time during the festival to help make it a success. Volunteer opportunities include staffing the festival and special events, distribution of promotional materials, selling merchandise, transportation and more. Perks include free tickets to movies, parties and more. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact info@indiememphis.com or call (901) 246-7086

Friday, October 6, 2006

'Memphis Muck' trailer

Another shameless self-promotion for my "Memphis Muck" documentary. See the trailer here of the doc on the musician that John Beifuss calls "Memphis' clown prince of hip-hop." The 30-minute video chronicles the Muck Sticky Revue of March 31, 2006, also featuring music and interviews with El Dorado and the Ruckus, Taco & the Mofos and the incomparable Mr. Safety.

"Memphis Muck" will screen at the Indie Memphis Film Festival on Oct. 16 at 8:30 pm. For the schedule and synopses of the festival, go here.

Wednesday, October 4, 2006

Indie Memphis party at Burke's Book Store

Filmmaker Craig Brewer and Burke's Book Store present Indie Memphis Film Festival Preview Party ... Local Filmmakers and Storytellers Gather to Promote Southern Films

On Friday, Oct. 6, Craig Brewer and Burke's Book Store host a preview party for the Indie Memphis Film, a project of Delta Axis. This event at Burke's will highlight local storytellers and the filmmakers featured in the weeklong Indie Memphis Film Festival, October 13-19.

It's at Burke's Book Store, 1719 Poplar Avenue, Friday, October 6th, 7:00 to 11:00 p.m.

Live music and trailers for the films to be premiered at the film festival along with trailers for Craig Brewer's forthcoming movie, "Black Snake Moan," will be presented in an outdoor theater at Burke's. Brewer will also sign "Black Snake Moan" posters for any one who makes a purchase that evening from Burke's.

The Preview Party is free and open to the public. Indie Memphis Film Festival passes will be sold this night only for a discounted price of $50 each (regular price $60) The passes provide admission to all films during the festival, and also guarantee a ticket to the special performance on Saturday October 14th, of Alloy Orchestra's live soundtrack to the 1925 Phantom of the Opera film.

Burke's Book Store: 1719 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee 38104, 901-278-7484/800-581-5156
burkes@netten.net, http://www.burkesbooks.com
Hours of Operation: Monday - Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The complete Indie Memphis program

Go here for PDF files of the program for the Indie Memphis Film Festival -- synopses, schedule, sponsors and everything.

Tuesday, October 3, 2006

Craig and Jodi Brewer create cancer awareness PSA


John Beifuss writes in the CA:

Grizzlies guard Mike Miller, Shelby County Mayor A C Wharton and Muck Sticky, Memphis' clown prince of hip-hop, are among the local celebrities who appear in a new public service announcement about the battle against breast cancer, directed by Craig Brewer and produced by his wife, Jodi Brewer.

The TV spot is the second the "Hustle & Flow" creator has directed to kick off a campaign to raise money for the local affiliate of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, an organization working to eradicate breast cancer as a life-threatening disease. This year's campaign -- dubbed "Passionately Pink for the Cure" -- asks companies to pick any day during October (Breast Cancer Awareness Month) to encourage employees to wear pink in exchange for a $5 donation to Komen. More information is available at passionatelypink.org.

All participants donated their time for the public service announcement, which was created at Beale Street Studios, with studio owner Geo Holmes acting as videographer and Shan Sanford in charge of editing and digital animation.



Here's the Live at 9 program with Craig, Jodi, Muck and all.

Another film comes to Memphis

From today's story in the CA by John Beifuss:

Memphis director Craig Brewer will reunite with his "Hustle & Flow" star Terrence Howard, who will portray country singer Charley Pride, in a movie biography under a deal expected to be signed with Paramount Pictures.

Although Pride achieved fame in Nashville, Brewer said, "One of the reasons I went after this project is because I knew I could shoot a majority of it in Memphis." ...


The Charley Pride biopic -- to be produced by Southern Cross the Dog, the company founded by Brewer and his producing partner Stephanie Allain, with the participation of other producers connected with Pride -- could represent the first time Brewer has directed a film he didn't write. Brewer said he is too busy writing his next film, "Maggie Lynn," to script the Pride movie; he said he and Allain are looking for "the right writer" for the project.

Assuming a script is accepted, the movie still likely wouldn't be ready to go before the cameras until 2008.

"I want the project ready to direct after I do 'Maggie Lynn,'" said Brewer, whose ambitious slate also includes a possible broad-canvas film about the Memphis sanitation strike of 1968 that would link the city's music and civil rights histories.







Monday, October 2, 2006

Feature Film Auditions and Crew Call

Wordmonger Pictures, LLC is pleased to announce auditions for a feature film called "The Rabbit's Prayer," written and directed by Stephen Leet.

Story Line: Three travelers journey to the fictitious town of Riverton in the Depression era South. Each carrying a different, secret goal which together will ignite a spiritual awakening, a spiritual death and a long awaited judgment.

Jeanie - Starring / FEMALE / 18 TO 22 / Caucasian

Naive, innocent, shy, petite young adult without much direction in life; looking instead for others to guide the way. She is calm, contemplative and short on words. As the story progresses and Jeanie communes with her naturalistic environs, she will experience a spiritiual awakening. Her characterization will define the narrative's core.

Foster - Starring / MALE / 45 TO 55 / Caucasian

A Baptist preacher who acts as a self imposed father figure to the two other main characters. His faith is strong to the point of fallacy. He is full of songs and saying, folksy wisdom and religious ambition.

Harper - Starring / MALE / 20 TO 23 / Caucasian

A tormented young man who believes in little other than the weight of his own conscience. He is Jeanie's companion and is desperate for the promise of new work in the town of Riverton.

It will be shot on high definition and produced under the Screen Actor's Guild Low Budget Agreement. SAG as well as non-union performers are able to audition. Casting will also take place in Los Angeles.

For sides and/or more information, please send an email to: therabbitsprayer@hotmail.com

Auditions will be held 1-5 p.m. on Oct. 21st, 2006 at First Congo Church, 1000 S. Cooper, Memphis, TN 38104. Please enter via the handicapped ramps.

Craig Brewer directs for the cure

Director Craig Brewer and local musician Muck Sticky are promoting breast cancer awareness. Brewer has created a 30-second public service announcement for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation in conjunction with its “Passionately Pink for the Cure” Campaign.

The commercial features Muck, Shelby County mayor AC Wharton, Grizzly Mike Miller, Beauty Shop chef Brett “Shaggy” Duffee and local breast cancer survivors. You can see/record it Tuesday during WREG-TV’s “Live at 9" show on Channel 3.

More on Village Roadshow Pictures Group

In the CA story referred to below, Rey Flemings asks local governments for money for his new film enterprise. Here's a story from an Aussie paper that offers more detail. And the Smart City Memphis blog has a thing or two to say about it.

Sunday, October 1, 2006

"Just the Two of Us" is a winner!



The DogDay Entertainment/ Pittstop Productions film "Just the Two of Us" won the Grand Prize at the American Artist Film Festival in Kansas City. Way to go Keenon and Rod!

See it at the Indie Memphis Film Festival on Tuesday, Oct. 17 at 6:15 p.m.

Indie Memphis preview at MeDiA Co-op

The MeDiA Co-op is proud to present an Indie Memphis preview at the MeDiA Co-op Tuesday, October 3 7:30 pm. Donations accepted.

The Indie Memphis Film Festival will give a preview of their 9th annual film fest, screen some films, and talk all about what's in store for their 2006 installment, October 13-19, at Peabody Place/Muvico Theatres downtown, Memphis.

Go here for more info on Indie Memphis.

Have some extra time? Wanna volunteer some hours helping the MeDiA Co-op w/events, and various in-house projects, please respond to memphisdigitalartscoop@gmail.com with general inquiries, and availability. We appreciate it!

Saturday, September 30, 2006

"Across the River" at Indie Memphis

John Harvey's "Across the River" has been accepted to the Indie Memphis Film Festival and is on the schedule to show at 8:45 pm Monday, October 16th. The plot revolves around a young man who has just died and bargains with the Grim Reaper to allow him to stick around to tie up some loose ends. Rock 103's Dennis and Ric -- Dennis Phillippi and Ric Chetter -- are the Grim Reaper and the Soul Eater.

Meet the Angry Filmmaker at Indie Memphis

On Sunday, Oct. 15, there's a 1 p.m. workshop with The Angry Filmmaker at Indie Memphis. Find out about this director/screenwriter/producer at his MySpace site and at his Web site AngryFilmmaker.com.

Shelby County taxpayers asked to help film company

The proposed Village Roadshow Pictures regional facility in Memphis wants public money. Here's an excerpt of the story by reporter David Williams in today's CA:

Rey Flemings, leading the movie company recruitment as a Memphis Music Foundation board member, wouldn't discuss the amount but said Friday it was small "in the world of corporate incentives."

The funds would supplement recent state film-incentive legislation that provides a rebate of 15 percent of in-state company production spending, if certain qualifications on the company and its spending are met.

The foundation is working with the city, county and other entities on the project, although there's not yet an agreement that could be presented to the City Council and County Commission as part of a funding request.

The proposed deal calls for Village Roadshow -- an Australian-based company behind "The Matrix" and other hits -- to spend $250 million on productions here over five years.

"We continue to build a case that film and music are real industries that are having and will continue to have great impact on the economic well-being of this community," said Flemings, who recently resigned his paid position as foundation president to work for hometown pop star Justin Timberlake's organization.

Timberlake plans to relaunch Stax Records in a partnership with California-based Concord Music Group, whose owners -- Norman Lear and Hal Gaba -- own part of Village Roadshow.

"These deals mean a lot in terms of job creation and tax benefits for local and state government," Flemings said, "and that's in addition to the real obvious soft benefits in marketing and civic pride."

Village Roadshow Pictures has made:
The Matrix
The Matrix Reloaded
The Matrix Revolutions
Ocean's Eleven
Ocean's Twelve
Miss Congeniality
Cats & Dogs
Two Weeks Notice
Mystic River
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Eight Legged Freaks
Zoolander

Friday, September 29, 2006

"What Goes Around" at Indie Memphis



"What Goes Around..." has been accepted into the Indie Memphis Film Festival. It's a comedy-drama that follows Talal (Patrick Henry), a young man with cold feet, who after growing increasingly frustrated with the worrisome ways of his girlfriend Marie (Chris Brown), decides to see what else is out there. He thinks he's struck gold when he draws the attention of Angela (Lisa Miller) an attractive classmate who seems to have everything he’s looking for in a relationship: beautiful, smart, funny and sexy. But little does he realize; everything that glitters isn't gold.

The film is by Rod Pitts of Pittstop Productions.

Thursday, September 28, 2006

"Memphis Muck" at Indie Memphis


"Life is too important to take too seriously."

What's it like to make music in Memphis? The 30-minute documentary "Memphis Muck" will be shown Oct. 16 at 8:30 pm at the Muvico in
Peabody Place. Most of the doc was taped during a March 31 concert by Muck Sticky and includes music performed on the stage of the New Daisy as well as interviews with the Thoreau-quoting, feel-good, herbal-centric, R-rated musician/entertainer/actor as well as his other guests that night: El Dorado and the Ruckus, Taco & da Mofos and Mr. Safety discussing Memphis music, the creative urge and how it all comes together.


Kudos to Last Train From Memphis Entertainment

Last Train to Memphis Entertainment is proud to announce that two of their films have been selected to be shown at the Script-2-Screen Independent Film Festival and Movie Biz Conference, October 5th-8th. Ken Axmaker, Jr's film, Man-tute, has been selected to represent Memphis independent filmmaking. It will be shown opening night, Thursday, October 5th, with an introduction by the director. Man-tute will also be shown at it's regularly scheduled time, Saturday October 7th at 8:40 p.m. Axmaker's feature film, Service With a Smile, will also be showing Friday, October 6th at 7 p.m. Service is the film John Beifuss of the Commercial Appeal has called, " the Charles Bukowski meets Shemp Howard dipsomaniacal comedy..."

Axmaker says: "This is a great honor to have one of my films chosen to represent Memphis filmmaking. I think that this will help bring more attention and support to the Memphis independent film scene."

For more info on the films:

www.LastTraintoMemphis.com

to watch:

www.MySpace.com/lasttraintomemphis

For more info on the festival and movie biz conference:

http://www.script2screenfilmfestival.com/

Last Train to Memphis lineup

Last Train to Memphis Entertainment is proud to announce the October line up for the monthly shorts festival airing on WYPL-18. This is our fifth episode, and we have an excellent line up.

The Players:

Blown - Directed by Michael Cruickshank
Will O'Loughlen
Kaleo Quenzer
Rick Venable

Prom Queen - Directed by Ben Siler

Block - (a BR2 film) Directed by Melissa Crouch

Music for ending credits: Cat Head Biscuits and Gravy a duet by Nancy Apple and Rob McNurlin from the River Road or Rail album.

Be sure to watch the bonus film at the end of the credits-

South Dakota Trilogy in Three Minutes - Directed by Will O'Loughlen

The Times:

Sunday night/Monday morning 12 am
Thursday morning 2:00 am
Thursday night 10:30 pm
Saturday morning 1:30 am
Saturday night 11:00 pm

Congratulations to all the filmmakers. If you would like to submit a film or song to the festival, go to www.LastTraintoMemphis.com and click on the festival link.

or, http://www.MySpace.com/lasttraintomemphis

Please email us at: LTTM1@aol.com with any questions or comments.

FABA Film Festival

Did Indie Memphis reject your film, because they just had too many entries? Well have no fear, FABA! is here. On October 11th and the 12th we will be holding the first ever FABA! Film Fest at MO's (Memphis originals).

ENTRY IS FREE!!!!!

FABA! wants you to show us what you've got!

Shorts, Features, Documentaries... Bring it on!!!

Prizes include cash and DISTRIBUTION!!! Through Knight entertainment.

For entries, call 901 859 4979

Send all entries via US mail to :

For Artists By Artists
2121 Poplar ave # 74
Memphis TN 38104

All entries must be postmarked by October 7th

Wednesday, September 27, 2006

Li'l Film Fest 3 -- Watch out!

Now you can watch the little movies that made up last Saturday's "Li'l Film Fest 3: Kung Who?...No, Kung Fu!" Go to the LiveFromMemphis.com site here and sit back for unlimited minutes of chop socky hilarity.

Congratulations to John Pickle whose "Electric Ninja Acid Test" won the audience fave award. And thanks to everyone -- all 92 of you -- who participated in my production and to all who came to the screening and supported local indie filmmakers. I hereby christen all of you Associate Producers.

Tuesday, September 26, 2006

Indie Memphis lineup

Here are dates, times and titles for the Indie Memphis Film Festival. More details are to come, but now you can start filling in your calendar. Screenings are in two theaters at Muvico in Peabody Place, so there are two listings for each day.

More more details, see John Beifuss' blog about the upcoming festival.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 8:00

Come Early Morning, directed by Joey Lauren Adams (attending). Starring Ashley Judd with Nancy Ellen Mills and Ann Marie Hall.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14
1:00 This is Keith Rolyat
Stomp! Shout! Scream!
3:00 Youth Showcase
5:15 Films by Phil Chambliss
Shadow of the Hatchet Man
The Mr. Visit Show
The Devil’s Helper
7:00 Awards Ceremony

===

11:00 Workshop: SAG Indie
12:45 Last Thoughts
2:30 Documentary Shorts Program
A Cheaper Way to Go
The Cole Nobody Knows
Driving for Freedom
Bowl Digger
Confederate Pennsylvania
Crunch!
Soul of the Delta
4:45 The Proper Care and Feeding of an American Messiah
7:45 Shorts Program #1
Kubuku Rides (This Is It)
Electric Ninja Acid Test
Hyperthrust Overdrive
Peace
Love is Deaf
The Color of Motion
Attache
Testify
8:00 The Phantom of the Opera, (1925; Silent; B&W and hand colorized) with live accompaniment by The Alloy Orchestra

9:00 Live From Memphis Music Video Showcase

9:45 Rex Fears Dogs
The Other Side



SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15
12:45 Art From the Street
2:30 Dear Mr. President
August in the Empire State
5:00 American Cannibal: The Road to Reality
7:00 The Bottle Tree
Old Joy
8:45 Eat

===

1:00 Workshop: The Angry Filmmaker
2:45 Shorts Program #2
Ad Man
Anti-Arktikos
The Rabbit League Must Prevail
The Shovel
Imagine
Drinking Man
At Rope’s End
Katrina’s Wake
4:45 Jumping Off Bridges
6:45 Shorts Program #3
Made in Taiwan
Fence Dogs
Leave Me a Message
Mateo’s Tattoo
Give Me Ducky
A Riot in the Dark
Night Comes Down
Plenty 4 Days
The Bread Squeezer
8:30 When I Find the Ocean

MONDAY, OCTOBER 16
6:30 Cocaine Cowboys
8:45 Across the River
The Bridge

===

6:45 Fraternity Massacre at Hell Island
8:30 Delusions
Memphis Muck

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 17
6:15 Just the Two of Us
8:45 What Goes Around

===

6:30 Dia de los Muertos
The Garage
8:30 Grim Sweeper


WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18
6:15 Severance
8:30 Found
A Reel Man

===

6:30 Bodies and Souls
Of Good Courage
8:15 Send in the Clown

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19
6:45 The Importance of Being Russell
9:00 Mike McCarthy presents…

===

6:30 Playing With Rage
8:45 Nobody