Monday, November 29, 2004
SANFORD FILMING!
(see photos - "Cruising through Sanford")
We filmed all day on the streets of Sanford with a platform trailer. The risk factor increased today because it is dangerous to have 10 people locked down on a moving car filming, but we got the shots. It was exciting for me to be cruising through the back streets of Sanford, the celery farms, the orange groves, and filming them all as part of the scene for LV and I. Sanford is such a special place to me and will always be. And Lastly, Deezer is FANTASTIC in this role ....a true asset to this project.
(see photos - "Cruising through Sanford")
We filmed all day on the streets of Sanford with a platform trailer. The risk factor increased today because it is dangerous to have 10 people locked down on a moving car filming, but we got the shots. It was exciting for me to be cruising through the back streets of Sanford, the celery farms, the orange groves, and filming them all as part of the scene for LV and I. Sanford is such a special place to me and will always be. And Lastly, Deezer is FANTASTIC in this role ....a true asset to this project.
Sunday, November 28, 2004
ACTORS ARRIVING!!!
Yesterday DANNY NUCCI arrived for filming and today DEEZER D and TESSIE SANTIAGO arrive from LA. This is a big week of filming tomorrow beginning at 6:30 AM in Sanford. It is about 4 pages of talking between Deezer and I as I arrive in Sanford. We are shooting on a flatbead trailer with a camera dollying in front of the windshield. We will also lock down the camera on the side windows for coverage. Basically we will be driving down Celery Ave catching the beautiful groves and lush landscape in the background so if you're around...watch out cause we'll be the ones hogging the road!!!!.
Yesterday DANNY NUCCI arrived for filming and today DEEZER D and TESSIE SANTIAGO arrive from LA. This is a big week of filming tomorrow beginning at 6:30 AM in Sanford. It is about 4 pages of talking between Deezer and I as I arrive in Sanford. We are shooting on a flatbead trailer with a camera dollying in front of the windshield. We will also lock down the camera on the side windows for coverage. Basically we will be driving down Celery Ave catching the beautiful groves and lush landscape in the background so if you're around...watch out cause we'll be the ones hogging the road!!!!.
Friday, November 26, 2004
So after Thanksgving with the family I returned home, got in bed to look at the script, let Emma (my rescue pitbull puppy) curl up beside me, and we were out in no time. She and I woke up at 5 this AM with light classical music coming from the tv. It was rather fabulous!!! We got some coffee, took a walk, and just had some quality time together. I feel like a bad daddy being so busy, but she just keeps loving me.
Thursday, November 25, 2004
CASTING NEWS!!!!
The search is over! We have filled the last major piece. TESSIE SANTIAGO met with our director Reza Badiyi yesterday in LA for the HUGE role of Sarah Marshall and as she went to the bathroom Reza called my cell to say we found our girl. I extend many thanks to Innovative Artists Talent Agency in New York and LA. Allison Levy in NY and Steve Lamanna in LA worked the phones with me nonstop yesterday until this deal was done. In fact, both called me late night (around 10 and 11) to say how excited they were for this opportunity for Tessie to play this role. I am very impressed with Innovative Talent Agency at this moment and their desire and insight to recognize the worth of this project....in relation to their up and coming talent Tessie. They both went down swinging for their client and sold me on her. I have known Steve Lamanna over the years and he is truly one of the "good ones." A very impressive agent with integrity and he showed that yesterday in spades. I look forward to working with him more closely as this film progresses. As for Tessie...she starred in several tv shows, had her own series The Queen of Swords, and is originally from Florida...which makes me happy because this film is based on my love of Florida as my home. A Big Welcome to Tessie (Sarah). RIGHT ON!!!!
The search is over! We have filled the last major piece. TESSIE SANTIAGO met with our director Reza Badiyi yesterday in LA for the HUGE role of Sarah Marshall and as she went to the bathroom Reza called my cell to say we found our girl. I extend many thanks to Innovative Artists Talent Agency in New York and LA. Allison Levy in NY and Steve Lamanna in LA worked the phones with me nonstop yesterday until this deal was done. In fact, both called me late night (around 10 and 11) to say how excited they were for this opportunity for Tessie to play this role. I am very impressed with Innovative Talent Agency at this moment and their desire and insight to recognize the worth of this project....in relation to their up and coming talent Tessie. They both went down swinging for their client and sold me on her. I have known Steve Lamanna over the years and he is truly one of the "good ones." A very impressive agent with integrity and he showed that yesterday in spades. I look forward to working with him more closely as this film progresses. As for Tessie...she starred in several tv shows, had her own series The Queen of Swords, and is originally from Florida...which makes me happy because this film is based on my love of Florida as my home. A Big Welcome to Tessie (Sarah). RIGHT ON!!!!
Wednesday, November 24, 2004
Jo's House ---
Paul, Stephen, Reza, Ralph, Alan, and I met for breakfast to discuss the first 5 days of shooting. We are all very pleased and Reza went back to LA for Thanksgiving. He returns Saturday and then we are off on the next phase of this glorious process. As you can see, our main house represents the Florida I know and love!!!!! It is just stunning and a great big thanks goes to the Kennedy's who have been so kind as to allow us to use their family home. Have a great Thanksgiving everyone and I will continue to update you as things develop...as they do everyday!
Paul, Stephen, Reza, Ralph, Alan, and I met for breakfast to discuss the first 5 days of shooting. We are all very pleased and Reza went back to LA for Thanksgiving. He returns Saturday and then we are off on the next phase of this glorious process. As you can see, our main house represents the Florida I know and love!!!!! It is just stunning and a great big thanks goes to the Kennedy's who have been so kind as to allow us to use their family home. Have a great Thanksgiving everyone and I will continue to update you as things develop...as they do everyday!
Monday, November 22, 2004
DAY 5 --
(see panoramic shots)
The day is Night shoots on Lake Sybelia in Maitland. Tonight we will be working through the night getting lots of exterior night shots. It is great today because people could finally get some sleep and show up a little later to work.
Co-Producer Alan Lilly is doing a remarkable job assisting with publicity and internet marketing. This site is being highly trafficked as a result of his work and he is continuing to devise new, creative, and strategic ways to reach as many people as possible. We want to introduce as many local people people as possible to the process of making a film... and this film is a great opportunity to do so. One of the most important aspects of doing this film in Central Florida is letting people know that it is COMPLETELY REALISTIC to be doing more and more films here. We have the crews, the talent, and the technical capability to do it ALL here!!!!!
(see panoramic shots)
The day is Night shoots on Lake Sybelia in Maitland. Tonight we will be working through the night getting lots of exterior night shots. It is great today because people could finally get some sleep and show up a little later to work.
Co-Producer Alan Lilly is doing a remarkable job assisting with publicity and internet marketing. This site is being highly trafficked as a result of his work and he is continuing to devise new, creative, and strategic ways to reach as many people as possible. We want to introduce as many local people people as possible to the process of making a film... and this film is a great opportunity to do so. One of the most important aspects of doing this film in Central Florida is letting people know that it is COMPLETELY REALISTIC to be doing more and more films here. We have the crews, the talent, and the technical capability to do it ALL here!!!!!
Sunday, November 21, 2004
DAY 4 COMPLETED!!!
Great day of shooting in Sanford today. Two big dialogue scenes in the bank and then we did a pick-up shot at the Gas Station. The crew worked amazingly fast to steal that pick-up before the sun went down and I can't thank them enough. We got it all in one take (both the med. close-up and the closeup). Everybody was pleased and surprised.
I loved acting with my good friend Danny Nucci. It was a treat to work with him and explore the scenes as he is always willing to dig deeper and find added moments. In fact, if allowed, he'd dig himself to China!!!!
Great day of shooting in Sanford today. Two big dialogue scenes in the bank and then we did a pick-up shot at the Gas Station. The crew worked amazingly fast to steal that pick-up before the sun went down and I can't thank them enough. We got it all in one take (both the med. close-up and the closeup). Everybody was pleased and surprised.
I loved acting with my good friend Danny Nucci. It was a treat to work with him and explore the scenes as he is always willing to dig deeper and find added moments. In fact, if allowed, he'd dig himself to China!!!!
DAY 4 --
PAUL SIRMONS, my producing partner, is nothing short of a gift from God. He is the most honorable, ethical, competent filmmaker I have ever met. We are working so well together as he now carries the brunt of the Producing side of this film and I concentrate on the acting, writing side. At the end of the day, I love calling him to just unwind...talk about the day, catch up on what happened at the office, etc. He comes to the set as often as he can but he is swamped with co-ordinating repsonsibilities and doing a remarkable job!!!!
Shooting at Heritage United Bank today on 1st street in Sanford. I love the dayshooting in Sanford. They are extra special.
PAUL SIRMONS, my producing partner, is nothing short of a gift from God. He is the most honorable, ethical, competent filmmaker I have ever met. We are working so well together as he now carries the brunt of the Producing side of this film and I concentrate on the acting, writing side. At the end of the day, I love calling him to just unwind...talk about the day, catch up on what happened at the office, etc. He comes to the set as often as he can but he is swamped with co-ordinating repsonsibilities and doing a remarkable job!!!!
Shooting at Heritage United Bank today on 1st street in Sanford. I love the dayshooting in Sanford. They are extra special.
Saturday, November 20, 2004
DAY 3 --
Actress MINA BADIE was amazing today. We shot 6 Flashback scenes in 12 hours and she was on fire. Check out her resume at www.imdb.com. In fact, go to that site for any information about Julie Harris, Ruby Dee, Danny Nucci, Reza Badiyi (our director), and Stephen F. Campbell (our Cinematographer). Reza and I spoke last night after we wrapped and we are both in recognition that we are making a "special film." I can't stress how AMAZING this crew is.
Actress MINA BADIE was amazing today. We shot 6 Flashback scenes in 12 hours and she was on fire. Check out her resume at www.imdb.com. In fact, go to that site for any information about Julie Harris, Ruby Dee, Danny Nucci, Reza Badiyi (our director), and Stephen F. Campbell (our Cinematographer). Reza and I spoke last night after we wrapped and we are both in recognition that we are making a "special film." I can't stress how AMAZING this crew is.
Friday, November 19, 2004
END DAY 2---
Watch Channel 2 tonight. Reza and I were interviewed by Amanda Ober and it will air this evening. Also, look for articles in the Orlando Sentinel, the Sanford Herald, and our announcement in The Hollywood Reporter. The buzz has started and will only continue. We had great weather today, shot downtown with the Lake Eola Fountain as the main backdrop. Orlando has never looked so good!!! I was very proud of our city today....
Watch Channel 2 tonight. Reza and I were interviewed by Amanda Ober and it will air this evening. Also, look for articles in the Orlando Sentinel, the Sanford Herald, and our announcement in The Hollywood Reporter. The buzz has started and will only continue. We had great weather today, shot downtown with the Lake Eola Fountain as the main backdrop. Orlando has never looked so good!!! I was very proud of our city today....
DAY 2 --- FRIDAY the 19th
AMY LANDERS and BOB SCOTT have two scenes this AM. One is a walk and talk on the 400 block of Amelia St. Downtown and the other is at the Swan Boats on Lake Eola capturing the historic fountain in the background. Later in the evening we are at the NY law firm for a flashback scene. MINA BADIE (who plays my wife in the flasbacks) has arrived from LA and she and I have a serious day of acting Saturday at a LOFT SPACE above HUE in downtown Orlando. We will knock out 5 scenes in one day, including a major emotional scene.
AMY LANDERS and BOB SCOTT have two scenes this AM. One is a walk and talk on the 400 block of Amelia St. Downtown and the other is at the Swan Boats on Lake Eola capturing the historic fountain in the background. Later in the evening we are at the NY law firm for a flashback scene. MINA BADIE (who plays my wife in the flasbacks) has arrived from LA and she and I have a serious day of acting Saturday at a LOFT SPACE above HUE in downtown Orlando. We will knock out 5 scenes in one day, including a major emotional scene.
Thursday, November 18, 2004
1ST DAY IN THE CAN!
What an experience! A crew to die for, and a team of people all working together. PAUL SIRMONS has assembled a nop notch team in every key position... across the board. From BEVERLY SAFIER in WARDROBE to ORVIS RIGSBY in set design, this production is clicking. It was the most civilized, kind set I have ever been on. The stage is set to do something very special with this film. I was interviewed by the Orlando Sentinel today and it should be in the paper this weeked. Also fielded several more interviews and set up times for television segments. This is all good... because it is important to let people know we are doing this film in Orlando, using Orlando's best film craftsmen (not from LA or NY), and plan on doing more. BACK HOME PRODUCTIONS is here to stay. Orlando is ready for consistent filmmaking!!! Off to bed....
What an experience! A crew to die for, and a team of people all working together. PAUL SIRMONS has assembled a nop notch team in every key position... across the board. From BEVERLY SAFIER in WARDROBE to ORVIS RIGSBY in set design, this production is clicking. It was the most civilized, kind set I have ever been on. The stage is set to do something very special with this film. I was interviewed by the Orlando Sentinel today and it should be in the paper this weeked. Also fielded several more interviews and set up times for television segments. This is all good... because it is important to let people know we are doing this film in Orlando, using Orlando's best film craftsmen (not from LA or NY), and plan on doing more. BACK HOME PRODUCTIONS is here to stay. Orlando is ready for consistent filmmaking!!! Off to bed....
Wednesday, November 17, 2004
WE'RE OFF!!!!
My feelings are difficult to explain tonight. I began this journey in LA, writing down an idea, that I thought had merit and two years later we are putting it on film! Tomorrow morning we begin this remarkable journey and I thank ALL who have supported me in this process. It is a lot to comprehend right now, so I am choosing to just show up and do what I have always dreamed about doing... (Making a film in my home state, Florida). I am primarily filled with gratitude, that this opportunity is before me. I am not nervous, anxious or worried. I am at complete peace. I'll check in, tomorrow PM, and let you know how the first day went!!!!
My feelings are difficult to explain tonight. I began this journey in LA, writing down an idea, that I thought had merit and two years later we are putting it on film! Tomorrow morning we begin this remarkable journey and I thank ALL who have supported me in this process. It is a lot to comprehend right now, so I am choosing to just show up and do what I have always dreamed about doing... (Making a film in my home state, Florida). I am primarily filled with gratitude, that this opportunity is before me. I am not nervous, anxious or worried. I am at complete peace. I'll check in, tomorrow PM, and let you know how the first day went!!!!
Monday, November 15, 2004
3 DAYS and COUNTING!!!
Long day for all involved. The final preparations are time consuming, nervewracking, and exciting (all at the same time if that's possible). I continue to be amazed at the professionalism of all involved. They are creative, ingenious, and positive despite budgetary constraints and limited time. It is obvious that the synergy is here to make a great film (I can see it in peoples eyes). I am overwhelmed at everybody's effort. Interesting sidenote.....(Beefy King) is now a solid location. Those local Orlandoans who have made Beefy King a staple in their diet should enjoy seeing the sign in a feature film. Gotta get some sleep. Final PRODUCTION MEETING in the AM and then off to my fittings at millenia mall (The Armani store, I hear).
Long day for all involved. The final preparations are time consuming, nervewracking, and exciting (all at the same time if that's possible). I continue to be amazed at the professionalism of all involved. They are creative, ingenious, and positive despite budgetary constraints and limited time. It is obvious that the synergy is here to make a great film (I can see it in peoples eyes). I am overwhelmed at everybody's effort. Interesting sidenote.....(Beefy King) is now a solid location. Those local Orlandoans who have made Beefy King a staple in their diet should enjoy seeing the sign in a feature film. Gotta get some sleep. Final PRODUCTION MEETING in the AM and then off to my fittings at millenia mall (The Armani store, I hear).
FINAL TECH SCOUT MONDAY 7AM---
All departments load up in a 15 passenger van and do our final technical scout at all the locations. We begin in Narcoussee at the Marina on Lake Toho and end in Sanford, making stops all along downtown Orlando. Reza loves Beefy King, and we are trying to finesse doing a scene there. So maybe lunch there, tomorrow. And if we do end up shooting there, then I imagine I would get Beefy King on the house till the end of time. Yeah!!!
All departments load up in a 15 passenger van and do our final technical scout at all the locations. We begin in Narcoussee at the Marina on Lake Toho and end in Sanford, making stops all along downtown Orlando. Reza loves Beefy King, and we are trying to finesse doing a scene there. So maybe lunch there, tomorrow. And if we do end up shooting there, then I imagine I would get Beefy King on the house till the end of time. Yeah!!!
Sunday, November 14, 2004
SCRIPT MEETING---
Today Reza and I went to the home that will be Julie Harris' and walked the property. He likes to just exist in the space, and be creative. He explained his thoughts about certain shots and then we sat on the boat dock and talked about the script, things on his mind, things on my mind, how he planned on shooting this film, and what he expected from me. A very productive meeting.
Today Reza and I went to the home that will be Julie Harris' and walked the property. He likes to just exist in the space, and be creative. He explained his thoughts about certain shots and then we sat on the boat dock and talked about the script, things on his mind, things on my mind, how he planned on shooting this film, and what he expected from me. A very productive meeting.
Saturday, November 13, 2004
CASTING NEWS --
This just in! DEEZER D (Maleek for the past 10 years on the NBC hit ER) has signed on to play the grandson of Ruby Dee in our film. In addition, Deezer is getting married tomorrow Sunday the 14th so a big CONGRATS!!!! Also, up and coming Los Angeles actor MICHAEL MAY has inked to play the role of Teddy, the hard rocker wannabe assitant to Sarah at Gator Watch. Interestingly, Michael was raised in Orlando so returning to do a feature makes his trip home all the more special. We are pyshed to have both on board.
This just in! DEEZER D (Maleek for the past 10 years on the NBC hit ER) has signed on to play the grandson of Ruby Dee in our film. In addition, Deezer is getting married tomorrow Sunday the 14th so a big CONGRATS!!!! Also, up and coming Los Angeles actor MICHAEL MAY has inked to play the role of Teddy, the hard rocker wannabe assitant to Sarah at Gator Watch. Interestingly, Michael was raised in Orlando so returning to do a feature makes his trip home all the more special. We are pyshed to have both on board.
DIRECTOR NEWS -- Our Director, REZA BADIYI, is surprising and inspiring me daily. He is developing a shot list that is going to take this movie to a whole new level. Reza received an award recently by the DGA (Directors Guild of America) for having directed more hours of dramatic television than anybody in the history of television (416 and counting). He directing 46 episodes of Falcon Crest, developed the famous title sequences to Hawaii-5-0 and The Mary Tyler Moore show, and was the main director for Baretta and Mission Impossible....just a wealth of knowledge It is an HONOR and PRIVILEDGE to have him working on this.
Friday, November 12, 2004
CASTING NEWS ---
AMY LANDERS, having just wrapped the independant feature OUR VERY OWN in Nashville, has signed on to play the role of JUSTINE MARSHALL. Amy is most known for her roles on FRASIER and other notable comedies. Also, MINA BADIE has signed on to play the role of FAITH. Mina is coming in from LA next week and we are psyched to have her.
AMY LANDERS, having just wrapped the independant feature OUR VERY OWN in Nashville, has signed on to play the role of JUSTINE MARSHALL. Amy is most known for her roles on FRASIER and other notable comedies. Also, MINA BADIE has signed on to play the role of FAITH. Mina is coming in from LA next week and we are psyched to have her.
CASTING NEWS---
DANNY NUCCI has signed on to play the part of "Paul Reeds." He has been in countless films and is a true talent having acted opposite Leonardo Dicaprio in that little film about the boat that went down...."TITANIC." Also, THE ROCK, ERASER, and many other big films..not to mention countless TV series. He is being so kind to support this film as we can only pay him what he would normally make in about 15 minutes on his other shows. He arrives this Monday from LA for wardrobe fittings as his first day of work is THURSDAY (OUR 1ST DAY...YEAH). I am ecstatic to get him down here.
DANNY NUCCI has signed on to play the part of "Paul Reeds." He has been in countless films and is a true talent having acted opposite Leonardo Dicaprio in that little film about the boat that went down...."TITANIC." Also, THE ROCK, ERASER, and many other big films..not to mention countless TV series. He is being so kind to support this film as we can only pay him what he would normally make in about 15 minutes on his other shows. He arrives this Monday from LA for wardrobe fittings as his first day of work is THURSDAY (OUR 1ST DAY...YEAH). I am ecstatic to get him down here.
Thursday, November 11, 2004
JULIE HARRIS NEWS --- Julie Harris is absolutely lovely. I called her today to set up her flights and she just raised my spirits. This woman is the real deal and someone I can't wait to work with. She is so kind and has truly lived an amazing life. As an actor having worked with James Dean in East of Eden and on Broadway for so many years winning Tony awards, we are just so honored to have her in Florida for this film .
Wednesday, November 10, 2004
LOCATION NEWS --- WE FOUND THE MAIN HOUSE TODAY!!!! After two weeks of extensive searching by our location scout (Christian Edmunds), we finally have found Julie Harris's home...and it's in Maitland!!!! Now we have to secure it with the owner who actually lives in Virginia. I spoke with him and fortunately he sounds very interested. A woman lives there with a caregiver and they are both just lovely. This would be great for the crew...no late driving after a long day of shooting.
Tuesday, November 09, 2004
RUBY DEE NEWS --- Just got off the phone with Ruby Dee. It's about midnight and she clearly keeps late hours...a true artist. It was so exciting to hear her thoughts about the project, her role, and her excitement about coming to Florida and working with Julie Harris. The thought of them acting together in this film gives me goose bumps.