I usually try to keep news for my film company (Walk in the Park Pictures) separated from this blog, which is mostly dedicated to my random thoughts about working in film in the southeast.  I write this blog because I've had many people ask me what it's like to scrape together a living this way, and I hope this blog can help people be prepared and excited about filmmaking.

BUT I CAN'T HELP THIS ONE!  Because our film "Banks of the Vltava" will be showing in my hometown, Greenville, SC, this coming Thursday.  I'm excited to see my family, friends and the ever-changing cityscape of Greenville.  So, with unfettered promotion, I encourage you to come and check us out!

BANKS OF THE VLTAVA
7:00 pm
Hosted by SC Upstate Film Community
Coffee Underground
1 E. Coffee St.
Downtown Greenville, SC

And don't be shy!  I'll be around for questions and chatting afterward.  I hope to meet many new people.

See you at the movies!

Who knew that a P.A. was exposed to confidential information?  But such is the case, which is why I can only say that I enjoyed working on a commercial this week.  The product was-- oh wait, I can't say.  The production company was-- oh wait, I can't say that, either.  We shot at-- um, nevermind.  Let's take a look at this confidentiality agreement and see what I can tell you...

Ah!  I was a PA on a commercial with a lot of other awesome folks, and we had a great day full of sunshine, funny jokes and the obligatory hard work.  Thanks to the unmentionable production company for the gig!  It really was a blast!

And I think I can get away with posting this one picture from the men's restroom:

I had the pleasure of presenting our latest short film, Banks of the Vltava, at the Cape Fear Independent Film Festival recently.  We screened to a sold-out crowd at 10pm on Saturday, April 30th.  More information can be found on our company website for Walk in the Park Pictures.

The common reaction I get from friends and family whenever I mention a festival screening is, "You must be so excited!"  I suppose that is one way of putting it...  In reality, though, I'd say, "I must be such a nervous wreck."

Certainly, as a filmmaker, I want an audience to view my work.  Why else would I make it, if not for an audience?  Nonetheless, public showings are nail-biting experiences for me.  Every time, it goes a little like this:

The lights darken.  The projector throws the first flicker of light.  I sink down in my seat.  Perspiration begins to seep from my forehead.  My breath catches in my throat.  My tongue feels like beef-steak in my mouth.  I go into a state of paralysis.

During the film, I listen intently-- not to the dialogue (which I can recite in my sleep), but to every gasp, chuckle or groan that emits from any individual in the room.  This is the ultimate feedback: The immediate reaction.  Because I know that later, no matter what, they will be polite to me.  During the screening, though, the audience members have no conception of politeness.  They are either involved in the film, or they are not.

Twenty minutes later, when the credits roll and (hopefully) the audience applauds, air suddenly rushes into my lungs, making me light-headed.  Typically, I discreetly duck out the side door for a few moments.  My hands don't really stop shaking until a few hours later.  Ironically, most people will never know the hell I have just endured.

I have been very fortunate over the years that the majority (though not the entirety) of my films have been genuinely well-received.  Banks of the Vltava is no exception.  People were engaged in the film.

I credit the film's warm reception to many factors, not the least of which is the amazing talent that participated.  Director of Photography Matthew Mandarano provided some phenomenal images.  Editor/VFX Artist Shane Smith pieced the film together with precision and panache.  Production Designer Xoey HAWK wowed audiences with the depth of detail and authenticity of the film.  Composer Bruce Kiesling transported audiences with his mesmerizing score.  Makeup Effects by Lisa Edwards and Gretchen Adams were amazing.  Outstanding performances by actors-- including Rami Rothstein, Mike Shuford, Franny Civitano, Skyler Narotsky, Antje Price, Michael Kamtman, D.G. Holland, Woody Andrews and William Davis-- were hailed as "completely convincing."  Undoubtedly, my greatest success as a Director was in my selection of the talented people with whom I worked.

I am proud of Banks of the Vltava.  I am honored to have been included in the Cape Fear Independent Film Festival.  I am "excited" to be presenting the film soon at ConCarolinas Short Film Festival.  But mostly, for now, I am just thankful that I can breathe easily between these showings.

I offer my ineffable gratitude to everyone who supports my endeavors!  Without you, the audience, I would have no film.

Happy filmmaking!