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Updated March 17th, 2010
Wyatt Williams Casting - Arizona Lottery Commercial
Open Audition Call for Actors on Thursday, March 18th
1 Male & 1 Female character
Improvisational acting experience a plus
Bilingual preferred (Spanish, English)
Height 5’7” to 6’
Multiple commercials and live inter-active performances
Open Call at Wyatt Williams Casting
Thursday, March 18th 10 am – 6pm
Address 631 N. First Avenue. Suite 106
Phoenix, AZ 85003
Any questions
Contact: info@wyattwilliamscasting.com
Wyatt Williams Casting- Will Ferrell film “Everything Must Go”
Wyatt Williams Casting is proud to be selected to cast Arizona actors for “Everything Must Go” a feature film starring Will Ferrell. This production will begin shooting in and around the Phoenix area March 22nd.
Wyatt Williams Casting has contracted over a dozen Arizona actors to perform roles in the film. They are now looking for extras to participate in atmosphere work for this film and upcoming projects.
If you are interested in being considered for extra work please sign up by clicking the “register” tab at wyattwilliamscasting.com
Updated March 16th, 2010
Lightkeepers Screening
Starring Richard Dreyfuss, Blythe Danner, Tom Wisdom, Mamie Gummer and Bruce Dern
Tuesday, March 16
7:00pm
Harkins Shea 14
7354 East Shea Boulevard
Scottsdale, Arizona
All seats are on a first come first serve basis
In the year 1912, Seth Atkins (RICHARD DREYFUSS) is the light keeper for Eastham Light, located on a deserted outer beach of Cape Cod. His life is solitary and severe, but that’s the way he likes it. When his assistant suddenly quits, no longer able to tolerate Seth’s stubbornness and hatred for women, Seth is left to manage the lighthouse on his own.
That soon changes when a handsome and mysterious young man who calls himself John Brown (TOM WISDOM) washes ashore. Unable to remember which ship he was on or from which port she hailed, John stays at the Lighthouse, becoming Seth’s unofficial assistant. It turns out that the two share a dislike for women, based on previous unpleasant experiences in their life. They vow to never look at a female again and settle into a life dictated by the rhythm of the sea and the light, happily far from civilization and, in particular, women.
Their contented life is thrown into an uproar when two women from Boston arrive to vacation at a nearby cottage for the summer. The lovely Ruth Graham (MAMIE GUMMER) is well-bred and thoughtful, with a sense of adventure. She is accompanied by her charming and outspoken housekeeper, Mrs. Bascom (BLYTHE DANNER).
It doesn’t take long before the two women call on the assistance of John, who is immediately smitten by and cautious of Ruth. Later, when Seth meets Mrs. Bascom, he is shocked to find that it is his wife, Emeline, who he hasn’t seen for years; not since the day Seth left after a particularly bad argument between them. They decide to keep their previous relationship a secret and avoid each other as much as possible.
Over the course of the summer, Ruth and Tom slowly get to know each other and discover they have more in common than they had thought. It’s clear that there is more to Tom’s past than he is letting on. If he can let Ruth in, he may have a chance at love again.
At the same time, Seth and Emeline find more reasons to see each other than not and realize they have loved and stayed true to the other all along. However, can the hurt from the past be overcome to give them a second chance at their relationship?
The arrival of Emeline’s brother-in-law, Bennie (Bruce Dern), further complicates the situation, as he was the reason for their parting in the first place. Emeline had promised her deceased first husband to always care for Bennie, while Seth can’t stand him, finding him to be snobbish and selfish.
As the two women prepare to leave the Cape at the end of the summer, both men must overcome their own fear of commitment as they struggle to prove their love and worthiness.
Of course, love always finds a way, but not before all four deal with angst, mistaken identity, the nosy Cape Cod locals, a fistfight at the train station, and a nasty New England storm.
Prescott Film Festival
The Prescott Film Festival is pleased to screen Solitary on Wednesday March 24th at the Yavapai College Performance Hall; 6:30 pm.
Alfred Hitchcock was the master of creating suspense thrillers like Rear Window, Vertigo and North by Northwest. He hooked the audience in with creativity and scenes that revealed what was going on with mere looks from the actors and innovative camera angels. Apprehension builds as the film progresses until the audience is glued to the screen wondering what is really real and who is truly in danger.
The next generation to follow in Hitchcock’s footsteps is here with director Greg Derochie and his film Solitary, Solitary will take audiences on a similar tense ride as an agoraphobic woman trapped inside her house starts to think her devoted husband is conspiring with her psychiatrist to drive her insane. Is it all in her head? Or is it much more complicated than that?
The short film this month is SIMULACRUM® “A Science Fiction Fable.” Mickey is a man who’s bored with his office job and desperate to follow his passion; to write a novel. So, he decides to purchase a robotic replica of himself, a SIMULACRUM®. He programs it up and sends the SIMULACRUM® to work in his place, while he stays home to write his book. But what happens if a robot knows how to live your life better than you ever did?
Tickets are $7.50 per person and can be purchased by calling the Performance Hall box office at (928) 776-2000, or are available the night of the show at the door beginning at 5:30 pm.
Updated March 15th, 2010
IFP Membership
Now is the time to upgrade*!!!
These special upgrade offers are good for a limited time.
***This Special Offer Expires Friday, March 19, 2010.***
Upgrade your membership just in time for the 2010 Phoenix Film Festival becasue the 10th Anniversary of the Phoenix Film Festival is right around the corner, April 8 – 15, at the Harkins Scottsdale 101 Theatre. As a member of the IFP- Phoenix and Phoenix Film Society, you receive a level of pass based on your membership.
Filmgoer Level and Filmmaker Level members receive a Flex Pass, which gets you any four films during the eight day Festival (excluding the Opening Night Event).
Film Buff Level members receive a Festival Pass, which gets you into any screening throughout the entire Festival (Excluding the Opening Night Event).
VIP Level members get a VIP Patron Pass, which gets you all access to festival screenings (excluding Opening Night Event), free merchandise, gift bag and of course first priority on seating for screenings. This is ideal for folks who hate waiting in lines.
We are offering IFP-Phoenixand Phoenix Film Society members a limited time opportunity to upgrade their membership at a discount so you can upgrade your pass level to the Phoenix Film Festival.
Filmmaker and Filmgoer Level: Upgrade your membership to the Film Buff Level and get the Festival pass for just $65 Or upgrade to the VIP Pass for $180
Film Buff Level: Upgrade your membership to the VIP Level for only $100 and enjoy the Festival in style.
Members can also get a discount of 20% on all passes for guests.
These special upgrade offers are good for a limited time.
***The Special Offer Expires Friday, March 19, 2010.***
To take advantage of any of these offers please call our office at 602-955-6444
*Memberships must be current through May 1, 2010 in order to receive pass/passes (depending on your membership level) to the 2010 Phoenix Film Festival.
Updated March 12th, 2010
Arizona Film and Media Coalition Video
The Arizona Film and Media Coalition has posted the video they are sending to legislators (amongst other materials) to support the MOPIC legislation.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ocZLW3cih58
Updated March 10th, 2010
Good Faith Casting - Acting Workshop
Sign up for this weekend's Commercial Auditioning I & II workshops and save!
This weekend, we are offering the Commercial Auditioning I workshop on Saturday, March 13th from 1 pm - 7 pm, and Commercial Auditioning II workshop on Sunday, March 14th from 1 pm - 7 pm. You can register for one or both of the workshops for the regular price of $125 each or sign up for both for just $200 total (a $50 savings).
BONUS: If you do not have an agent, we will take your best "take" from the workshop and present it to our preferred agents list for their review. We can't guarantee this will lead to professional representation, but we think it certainly can't hurt! Many workshop participants have gotten picked up for professional representation through this process.
NOTE: Students who have taken Commercial Auditioning I, Commercial Auditioning II, and Commercial Improv Auditioning, will be eligible to participate in a free commercial showcase where agents and industry guests will attend a live performance of actors showcasing their commercial skills. You must take Commercial Auditioning I in order to take Commercial Auditioning II.
INSTRUCTOR: Workshops are taught by, Faith Hibbs-Clark, CSA Owner and head of casting for Good Faith Casting, LLC.
Click the link below to register or to get more information including what others are saying about the workshop!
More info/sign up for Commercial Auditioning I
More info/sign up for Commercial Auditioning II
Updated March 8th, 2010
The More You Know – Notes From the Film Office
CITY RATES
The City of Phoenix does not charge location fees to film on our properties (unless it is a revenue generating facility such as the Phoenix Convention Center or Orpheum Theatre).
That being said, often times you will be required to hire, in an off-duty capacity, a city of Phoenix employee. It is import to know these costs ahead of time and budget accordingly. Following is a brief summary of the most common charges a production will face (go to the “City Policies” on the left navigational bar for more detailed information):
Phoenix Police: $40/hr with a 3 hour minimum
Park Ranger: $30/hr with a 3 hour minimum
Aviation Supervisor: $45/hr with a 3 hour minimum
Since the Police will be using official vehicles with your shoot, there is a slight rental fee. This charge is generally $5/hour rental for the motorcycle and $0.65/mile which is billed from Police Fiscal.
Please contact the Phoenix Film Office for a more concise estimate of your costs as every shoot is different and requires different staffing.
Updated March 4th, 2010
Phoenix College Latino Film Festival
The Phoenix College Latino Film Festival is free and open to the public. Each evening of the festival will feature a full length film, a discussion session and featured special guest appearances.
Opening night for the festival—March 23rd, will be at the Phoenix Art Museum's Whiteman Hall, located at 1625 North Central Avenue. The movie will show at 7:00 p.m. followed by a reception after the the film showing.
Other showings—March 25, 26, 30, April 1 and 2, will be at the Phoenix College Bulpitt Auditorium, located at 1202 W. Thomas Road.
Saturday, March 27th's showing will be at the Phoenix College Osborn Center, Dome Conference Room.
The final showing on Saturday, April 3, will be at the Phoenix Art Museum's Whiteman Hall [map], located at 1625 North Central Avenue. There will be a reception at 6:15 p.m., and the movie will show at 7:00 p.m.
Come early to enjoy and be part of this exciting annual festival.
For more information on movies and times, visit the website!
Updated March 3rd, 2010
Educational Workshop - Good Faith Casting
This is the most exciting workshop that we offer! 4 months of intensive film auditioning and film scene training that culminates into two great industry events! An amazing opportunity at a crazy low price! An experience of a lifetime!
Dates: Every Friday in March 2010, 6 pm - 10 pm (Entire program runs every Friday through June 2010)
Size: Hurry, starts Friday and class size is limited to 20 students!
Note: If you sign up for the first month, you are required to sign up for the 2nd, 3rd & 4th months. After completion of the fourth month you will be ready to participate in a free showcase in front of industry professionals (agents, directors, producers) in the Arizona market who will score your performance and give you valuable feedback. The top scoring teams will be rewarded with the opportunity to attend our L.A. Showcase in Santa Monica, CA to be critiqued by L.A. industry professionals (agents, managers, directors, producers). There is no charge for the showcases. The showcases are FREE. The only expense associated with participation in the L.A. Showcase is making your own arrangements to get there and put yourself up, but most of the actors ride share and room together to save money. Total hours of training are 64 plus for a total program price of $800 which is a mere $12.50 per hour. Not to mention the free showcases and bonus gifts! The single best investment you can make in your film career!
Suprise Bonus! Each month that you stick with it, you will receive a bonus gift valued at least $50 or more. In the past, bonus gifts have included headshot photos, industry related gift certificates, and private coaching sessions. We pull in industry favors just to make this program even more fun for you.
Additional Notes: There are no prerequisites for this program. You must be at least 16 years old or have the permission of the instructor.
For more information, prices, course breakdown and registration, visit the information page.
IFP Membership
There is no better time to join than now with the Phoenix Film Festival right around the corner, April 8-15, 2010. As an IFP/PHX member you receive a Free Flex Pass to the festival, a $30 value. This pass entitles you to attend any four screenings of your choice (except opening night) for free. And if four screenings aren’t enough, trade it in and upgrade at a discount!
IFP/PHX provides you an unparalleled opportunity to get involved in the film industry locally, whether you are a filmmaker or an avid moviegoer.
Here are more reasons to become an IFP/PHX member:
• Voting privileges in Beat the Clock 48-Hour film awards and FIND’s Independent Spirit Awards
• Complimentary FILMMAKER Magazine subscription
• Multiple monthly FREE screenings, including Cinema Lounge and the Film Society screenings.
• Free weekday rental of audition/meeting rooms at our offices.
• Discounts! We have an extensive list of vendors and services that offer discounts.
• Discounts on premium seminars. March 6-7 we bring Emmy-winning writer Bill Grundfest (Mad About You) for a Write Like a Pro intensive writing workshop. IFP/PHX members pay only $250(non-member price is $350). www.ifpphx.org/events/write-like-a-pro-with-bill
Individual Membership is $99 annually, with student, household and corporate rates available.
Join today! Go to: www.ifpphx.org/page/join-ifpphx
March 2nd, 2010
MOPIC Update
The hearing for SB1409 held on 2/23/10 infront of the Senate Commerce and Economic Development Committee is now avaible via video.
Although many other bills were also discussed, SB1409 was the first on the agenda and is the first bill discussed.
Tucson Cine Mexico 2010
March 4-7
2010 at Harkins Theatres
FREE and open to the public
Tucson Cine Mexico 2010 celebrates the best of Mexican Cinema with Award Winning Filmmakers and Films, a Party at The Tucson Museum of Art, and a partnership with Gael Garcia Bernal and Diego Luna’s Ambulante Documentary Film Festival.
The University of Arizona’s Hanson Film Institute and The Consulate of Mexico in Tucson present Tucson Cine Mexico 2010, a festival of Mexican film. Tucson Cine Mexico 2010 is the most prominent film festival in the US focusing entirely on the work of Mexican directors, with each screening being the Arizona premiere. Tucson Cine Mexico 2010 is sponsored by Cox and Harkins Theaters. All screenings and events are free and open to the public and will take place Thursday, March 4 through Sunday, March 7, 2010.
Mexican cinema is at an exceptional moment. Never before have Mexican directors attracted so much attention in the international film arena. Beyond the now-household names of González Iñárritu, Cuarón, and del Toro, there’s an exciting generation of young filmmakers from different regions in the country who are drastically changing how Mexicans see and represent themselves on the big screen, and challenging traditional notions of Mexican culture and identity. The exciting wave heralded at the beginning of this decade by films such as Amores perros and Y tu mamá también has given way to a strong body of work making Mexico an exciting player in world cinema.
This year’s festival features a mix of award-winning contemporary films and documentaries. For a complete schedule please visit: www.hansonfilm.org
Tucson Cine Mexico 2010 is presented in association with the Tucson Film Office, UA School of Media Arts, UA Western Hemispheric Programs, Cinema Tropical, Aeromexico, UA Department of Spanish and Portuguese, UA Center for Latin American Studies, Wells Fargo Bank, and the Ambulante Traveling Documentary Film Festival with additional support from Metropolitan Tucson Convention & Visitors Bureau, Mexican Foreign Ministry, Tucson Museum of Art, and UA College of Humanities. Festival media sponsors are Univision/Telefutura Tucson, 102.1 KCMT La Caliente, and The Arizona Daily Star/La Estrella de Tucson.
A complete guide to Tucson Cine Mexico 2010 is available upon request and can be found at http://clas.arizona.edu/cinemexico. All films are in Spanish with English subtitles. Screenings venues: Harkins Theatres Tucson Spectrum 18, located at 5455 S. Calle Santa Cruz (www.harkinstheatres.com) and the Tucson Museum of Art, located at 140 North Main Avenue (www.tucsonmuseumofart.org).
For more information about Tucson Cine Mexico 2010, Ambulante, the School of Media Arts, or the Hanson Film Institute contact Vicky Westover, Program Director, at vwestove@email.arizona.edu.
March 1st, 2010
Almost Famous Film Festival - Results
The Audience has spoken and an underdog film took home the honor of being the favorite movie from last night's sold-out Public Screening. The Top Pick and the second place film were separated by one vote -- yes 1 vote from 447 total ballots. WOW!
Go to www.thea3f.net/2010-48hour.php and see the Top 3 Audience Favorites....
We are delighted to showcase our 6th Annual Top 20 Public Screening through the very cool photographs taken by Andrew DeCarlo. Andrew, better known as Mayo here in the Arizona film community, is a talented photographer, videographer and filmmaker and we are just absolutely delighted with the pictures he captured of the screening on February 25.
So check out Mayo's photos on the A3F web site at http://www.thea3f.net or visit the special gallery he set up for us at http://www.andrewdecarlo.com/a3f.
Updated February 25, 2010
Almost Famous Film Festival - Top 20 Public Screening
Watch the Top 20 Films from this year's 48 hour challenge on Thursday, February 25 at 7p.m. Venue is AMC Arizona Center 24 Theatres in downtown Phoenix.
Tickets are $8.00 each. You may use your credit/debit card or PayPal account. Tickets will be under your name at Will Call on the 25th. *No refunds or exchanges please...
Then join us for the A3F After Party! Hosted at 1130 The Restaurant just a few doors down from the screening. Party starts at 10p.m. and goes till, well when we are done celebrating the talented filmmakers and their award-winning films!
Updated February 24th, 2010
MOPIC Update
SB1409 passed the Senate Commerce and Economic Development Committee yesterday by a 7 to 1 vote.
Amendments to the original introduced bill have been posted at www.azleg.gov or you can view them directly below:
Casting Call: NBC's "The Biggest Looser"
Are you ready to change your life? Do you have at least 100lbs. to lose? Are you outgoing with personality? Do you have the want, desire and competitive edge to vie for this once in a lifetime opportunity to change your lives forever and compete for $250,000?
Apply today and change your life forever! We are looking for individuals or tams of two.
Come to our open casting call in Phoenix!
Saturday, March 27TH from 10:00am to 6:00pm
Superstition Springs Center
6555 East Southern Avenue, Mesa, Arizona 85206
For more information, go to: www.thebiggestlosercasting.com
•You must be at least 18 years old by May 24th, 2010 and a legal US Citizen to apply
*Please bring 2 non-returnable recent photos of any size that we can put with your application. Please write your name and contact info on the back of them.
* Please do not line up more than 3 hours before the open call start time
*If you cannot attend an open call you may submit a videotape
“Sniff, the dog Movie” Comes to the MADCAP Theaters One Night Only
Lynn Veale, President of the Phoenix Guide Dog Raisers Association has invited filmmakers Barry Stone and Kim Webster to Phoenix to present “Sniff,” a quirky, fun-loving celebration of dogs at work and play.
Be among the first to see this dog-lover’s dream movie one night only at the MADCAP Theaters Friday, March 12th (7:00 pm), 730 South Mill Street, Tempe, AZ. Students from the Phoenix Foundation for Blind Children will be at the screening with their guide dogs, as well as the filmmakers to answer questions and tell stories about the making of “Sniff.”
Twenty percent of proceeds from DVDs sold at the event will be split between the Foundation for Blind Children and the Phoenix Guide Dog Raisers, Inc., a dedicated group of diverse volunteers who come together for the purpose of raising, socializing and training future guide dogs for blind or visually impaired.
“Sniff” starring Neil Morrissey, Amanda Plummer, Mikey the Guide Dog and Gabby the Search and Rescue Dog, is a must-see for dog-lovers. “Sniff” combines documentary with comedic fiction as two British actors hired to be concierges of a fictitious high-end dog hotel collaborate on their documentary. The trouble is, they’re not quite making the same film!
Neil (British star Neil Morrissey: Bob the Builder, Men Behaving Badly) wants to regale us with heart-warming stories of unusual dogs. But his dour partner Richard (Richard Huw: The Four Minute Mile, Splitting Heirs) is bent on investigating the life and times of working dogs. Through the dueling lenses of these two serendipitous filmmakers, Sniff follows in detail the lives of dogs at work and at play.
“With overwhelming enthusiasm from local dog-owners and service-dog organizations,” says director Barry Stone, “we’ve made an action-packed, slightly zany, documentary about dogs that combines fun-loving real-life stories with fascinating information about how dogs sense the world, how they’re motivated and how working dogs are trained.”
“Sniff” follows the parallel stories of Mikey and Gabby, two puppies raised at Guide Dogs for the Blind in San Rafael, California as their career paths diverge. Mikey trains to become a Guide Dog, and Gabby, too exuberant to be a Guide, goes to Sundowner’s Ranch in Gilroy to learn the ropes as an NDSDF Search Dog.
Supporting dog organizations through a percentage of sales on their website and by pairing up with non-profits to host local screenings, Barry and his Producer wife Kim plan to work their way through the states, encouraging local audiences to come out and see Sniff amid the camaraderie of other dog-lovers. “We love to see the audiences grinning from ear-to-ear as they watch these amazing animals do their thing!”
Students from the Phoenix Foundation for Blind Children will attend the Phoenix screening and will be able to listen to a special descriptive audio track on headsets, so that they can envision the action on screen. “We've put this audio description as a special track on the DVDs as well as closed captioning for the hearing impaired. We want everyone to enjoy this film!” says Stone.
“We’re also proud that Ron Weckbacher and his search dog Dawson, who appear in the film, were one of the National Disaster Search Dog Foundation teams who went to Haiti to rescue earthquake victims,” says Stone. “We have great respect for these dogs and the dedication of their handlers and trainers.”
Sniff is fast-paced, informative family entertainment. You’ll find yourself tapping your toes to great music while you marvel at the dog stories with Grammy award-winning musicians Laurie Lewis, Bob McFerrin Jr., Jon Herbst, Kitka, Zydeco Flames, Ken Kearney, and even surf-music icon Dick Dale.
Watch the Sniff trailer at www.sniffthemovie.com. Advance tickets are available at sniffthemovie.com or at the door. $10 General/$8 Under 12 over 62. Bring the family!
Updated February 22nd, 2010
The More You Know – Notes from the Film Office
Hooding Parking Meters
Did you know that the Phoenix Film Office can hood meters for you at no charge?
Recently the City of Phoenix extended the weekday enforcement hours of parking meters to 8pm and even extended the enforcement to Saturdays. However, with your Phoenix Film and Digital Media Permit the Film Office can hood meters which will allow you to park your essential vehicles there all day (if necessary). And the cost to you? FREE! We offer this service to promote and encourage filming in downtown Phoenix.
All you need to do is create placards to go on the dashboards of the vehicles parking at the meters so the Meter Maid knows you are authorized to be there.
Updated February 19th, 2009
The More You Know - Notes from the Film Office
Production Stills
Have you recently worked on a project and have Production Stills available that you would like to share with the film office?
Frequently the Film Office is contacted by reporters looking for photos of a production to accompany their story. If you have some stills from your sets, then your project could be the one selected!
When we say “Production Stills”, what we are referring to are photos of the crew working with the equipment (camera, lights, c-stands, equipment vehicles, etc.). Photographs that showcase Arizona residents hard at work and give a sense of the “behind the scenes” of filming. Please note this is different than “Set Stills” which are still photos of the actors while they are working.
If you have some that you would like to share, please email the photos to filmphx@phoenix.gov along with a brief description of the project or, if you are sending many, save the photos to a disk and mail them to:
Mail: City of Phoenix
Phoenix Film Office
200 West Washington
19th Floor
Phoenix, Arizona 85003
Updated February 18th, 2010
IFP Seminar: Write Like A Pro: With Bill Grundfest (Mad About You)
When: Saturday & Sunday, March 6 & 7, 2010
Time: Sat. 9:00 - 6:00pm & Sun. 9:00 - 5:00pm
Where: Classroom
IFP/PHX and Phoenix Film Foundation Office
1700 North 7th Avenue
Suite #250
Phoenix, Arizona 85007
602.955.6444
TESTIMONIALS FROM CELEBRITIES... AND NORMAL PEOPLE
"Bill Grundfest. He did the best thing for me ever... I learned how to be myself. And that was a really big thing to learn.” - JON STEWART, Star, Exec Prod, The Daily Show
"If you want to create a script that bubbles with life, try to get Billy Grundfest to show you how he does it... he's a funny, great teacher - you hardly realize you're learning anything and I would say that even if he wasn't paying me, which he's not...” - Paul Reiser, Star, "Mad About You"
"I learned more in these two days than I learned in the last year of study..."
"One of the most inspiring instructors I've had..."
"He showed us exactly how to use our personal experiences in our writing..."
Why? That is a fair question, with a pretty simple answer. To learn to be a pro, learn from a pro. Write Like A Pro... is a completely practical, No-Theory-Allowed, Learn-By-Doing workshop. Taught by someone who has not only been there but is currently still there! Bill Grundfest has designed this to be a fun, energetic, active and interactive 2 day intensive workshop that will give you specific techniques that will dramatically improve your odds of creating a professional script and a professional career.
You'll learn techniques of craft that ensure...?
* Stories:You'll never run out of stories (you're full of them if you know where to look).
* Passion: You'll choose stories you're passionate about (which is the only way to make a reader feel passionate about them).
* Loglines: You'll know how to create powerful loglines (they're the DNA of your script).
* Beat Sheets & Outlines: You'll be able to build a compelling Beat Sheet out of your logline (and how to use a Beat Sheet differently from an Outline).
* Script: You'll be ready to write a script the reader can't put down (the kind that makes them call your agent to set up a meeting with you).
* The RewriteE: You'll learn how to build on the good, and eliminate the bad (including the cut pass, the punch up, the dialogue pass, etc).
You'll learn career starting - and building - techniques that ensure...
* Get Read: You'll know how to get that great script read by people who count (as well as learning who counts, and what to not put on your title page).
* Get an Agent: You'll learn several tricks (a couple of them sneaky) to get an agent (I used the sneaky ones) or a job as a writers' assistant.
* Give Good Meetings: You'll know how to prepare for a meeting with an executive (network vs. studio vs. exec producer -- all very different forms of life).
* Play the Writers' Room: You'll learn how to play your position in a Writer's Room (aka "You Think You're Family Is Dysfunctional?").
* Take Feedback: You'll learn how to take feedback that breaks your heart (and what "notes" really are - hint: they are not suggestions).
* Keep the Job: You'll know how to not get fired (being a great writer is nice, but simply not getting fired is the rocket fuel to many careers).
About Bill Grundfest
I came to Hollywood from NY, unemployed, crashing on couches and certain that I was destined to become a successful writer-producer. Seventeen years later, my body of credits for writing and/or producing includes every format and every tone. It ranges from mainstream network productions like NBC's MAD ABOUT YOU and CBS's THAT’S LIFE to mainstream-edgy projects like Oxygen's CAMPUS LADIES, HBO's MIND OF A MARRIED MAN to the extremely edgy, like Richard Pryor's PRYOR OFFENSES and THE RICHARD PRYOR, I ANIN’T DEAD YET, MUTHA#$%! Currently, I'm writing this season's Emmy telecast (again) and just delivered Season 2 of EXES & OHS for Viacom's gay network, LOGO (Season 1 was nominated for a GLAAD award. We lost.)
COST: $250 IFP/PHX members, $350 for non-members; lunch included.
***TICKETS MUST BE PRE-PURCHASED, NO WALK-INS.***
Tickets may be purchased at: Brown Paper Tickets http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/88518
Members use code IFPPHX (must present current membership card at the door for verification.)
New members may join prior to purchasing workshop tickets.
Updated February 12th, 2010
Film Office Production Manual
Recently, we have heard from many producers that many of the people and businesses listed in our Production Manual either no longer work in the industry or have invalid contact information.
In an effort to clean up the Production Manual, an e-mail was sent to every person listed in our directory asking them to reply to the e-mail that they still wanted to be listed or to provide any updated information.
Please take a moment to visit the online Production Manual and make sure all your information is correct. If you would like to continue to be listed or need to update your information, please send an e-mail directly to: filmphx@phoenix.gov
You are STRONGLY encouraged to review your listing and make sure all of the information is correct. If the Phoenix Film Office does not hear from you by 2/26/10, your listing will be deleted.
Should you wish to add a new listing, please follow the following links as they pertain to you. You may only be listed under 3 categories
Crew Listing: use this form if you are a freelance individual (grip, electrician, costumer, etc.)
Production Service: use this form if you are a company that rents or sells to the film industry (camera rental, grip trucks, etc.)
Updated February 11th, 2010
IFP Legal Seminar: Know Your Rights
When: SAT 02.20
Time: 12:30PM - 4:30PM
Where: IFP/PHX Classroom
1700 N 7th Avenue, Suite #250
Phoenix, AZ 85007
602.955.6444
Amara Edblad, President of Volunteer Legal Assistance for Artists, invites you to join legal professionals Jill Ormond and Stephen Nebgen for an in-depth discussion of the legal rights within the independent filmmaker and artist community. Attendees will get some very valuable information about a free legal counseling program available starting in 2010.
TICKETS: $10 for IFP/PHX members (use code IFPPHX - subject to verification) $15 for non-members*
Purchase tickets at Brown Paper Tickets or by calling 602.955.6444.
*pre-purchase price, add $5 for walk-ins.
Updated February 10th, 2010
Prescott Film Festival
Romance is in the air this month at the Prescott Film Festival! They will be screening two great romantic comedies, and giving away a wonderful door prize: two nights at the beautiful bed and breakfast in Williamson Valley, Blessing Retreat!
The screening will be at the fantastic Yavapai College Performance Hall; the box office opens at 5:30 pm, and tickets are $7.50, either at the door, or in advance by calling their ticket office at (928) 776-2000.
Feature Film: Coyote County Loser
Mars and Venus, Yin and Yang, Guys and Gals. No matter what you call it, this well-written and beautifully shot romantic comedy Coyote County Loser is a fun journey!
Beautiful small town radio personality Dr. Lauren is a know-it-all advising her listeners that choosing a man is like buying a car, and they should have a list of necessary attributes with them at all times. When a big-city radio “love doctor” Jack Proctor, gets stuck in town on his way through, he happens to hear Dr. Lauren’s radio program. And he’s not impressed. In fact he challenges her to an on-air battle to find the biggest “Coyote County Loser” and get him on a successful date. Jack thinks Lauren is cold and methodical, and Lauren thinks Jack is, “All hat and no cowboy.”
Shot in Roswell, New Mexico, the vistas are wide open and beautiful, the characters fun and quirky, and the romance has real depth and thoughtfulness that's sure to delight.
The film showcases some new and some very experienced actors: K Callan will be recognized for her many TV appearances; from Route 66, to Dallas to 2009’s Meet the Browns. Wayne Grace has been in The Rockford Files, the film Far and Away, and Frasier. Newcomer Beau Clark, who plays Jack is an excellent find as he radiates self-confidence with a glimmer of insecurity underneath. Nikki Boyer plays radio host Dr. Lauren and pulls off a character with sweetness under a very hard shell.
Short Film: Love in Bulk “A Story of Love at Wholesale Prices.”
A man and a woman randomly meet at the local “Bulk ‘N Buy” and experience the entire cycle of a relationship – from moving into each other’s carts, to arguments and break-ups, during the course of one shopping trip.
Guest Filmmaker: Andrew Rubin: Andrew graduated from New York University in 2008 and already has seven films under his belt. He is in pre-production for a documentary on the Akhoik Village in Alaska.
For further information, contact:
Helen Stephenson
Prescott Film Festival & Series
(928) 445-2088
helen@prescottfilmfestival.com
IFP - Screenwriting Weekly Table Reads
When: WED Nights in February
Time: 7:00PM to 9:00PM
Where: Barnes & Noble Booksellers
Tempe Marketplace, #1032
Tempe, AZ 85281
480.894.6954
Bring your pages and get feedback! Remember, no more than 10 pages, in 12 point Courier preferred. Please bring eight or more copies to share around. Even if you don't have any pages, come by to participate! You will learn just by participating, being involved, and listening to other people's pages and critiques. And we always want to hear your views on other members' scripts. FREE.
Updated February 8th, 2010
The More You Know – Notes from the Film Office
Storm Water Discharge
Did you know that if you utilize a rain maker for your project that a special permit is needed for the discharging water entering the City’s storm drain system?
Not to worry though, it is free and the Phoenix Film Office can help walk you through the process. Just give us a few days notice as we have to work with another government agency so there might be a slight delay.
The reason the City requires this permit is to reduce the addition of pollutants to storm water in quantities or concentrations that could violate applicable water quality standards.
To read the full city code, go to: http://phoenix.gov/CITYCODE/ch032c.html
IFP - Screenwriters' Group Monthly Meeting
When: MON 02.08 (now held on the second Monday)
Time: 7:00 to 9:30
Where: IFP/PHX Conference Room
1700 N 7th Avenue, Suite #250
Phoenix, AZ 85007
602.955.6444
February: Romance: Romance is in the air, but it is not just for romantic comedies and dramas. Discussion on romance and attraction in your screenplay, and how to use it in any genre. Hosted by Jon Bonnell. Free.
Updated February 3rd, 2010
IFP - Essential Cinematography Techniques
When: SAT 02.06
Time: 12:30PM - 5:00PM
Where: IFP PHOENIX CLASSROOM
1700 N. 7th Ave.
Suite #250
Phoenix, AZ 85007
602.955.6444
Do you want to improve the production quality of your films? Don't want to take an entire 15-week class at a film school? In just 4 hours we'll cover the fundamentals of cinematography to make your films look fantastic. Simple and effective lighting, framing, and camera movements. Live demonstrations with top-of-the line equipment and lighting.
Webb Pickersgill is a producer/director/cinematographer/editor who has credits in feature film, short film, and commercials. He is the 2009 Arizona Filmmaker of the year and a Rocky Mountain Emmy award winner.
Raise the quality of your cinematography, and sign up for this seminar today.
*TICKETS: $30 for IFP/PHX members (use code IFPPHX-subject to verification) and $50 for non-members
* pre-purchase prices, additional $5 for walk-ins, if available.
Updated February 2, 2010
Motion Picture Tax Incentive Update
Two new Senate Bills were introduced on 2/1/10 with changes to the current MOPIC program. Click on the Senate Bill to read the full description.
You may follow each bill by checking in with the Arizona Legislature web site at www.azleg.gov
Updated February 1st, 2010
Motion Picture Tax Incentive Program Update
Throughout the course of the 2010 Arizona Legislative Session, the Phoenix Film Office will be updating SIDES with the most current information on the Motion Picture Tax Incentive Program (MOPIC).
HB 2578 was introduced by Representative Hendrix with the reference title "Media Production Advisory Study Committee" and first read on 1/25/10.
BTC 48-Hour Winter Challenge: 20 of 22 Teams Finish
Twenty-two teams gathered at Madcap Theatres in Tempe to kick-off the IFP/Phoenix 48-Hour Winter Film Challenge. Teams drew a genre choice out of a hat: Romantic Comedy or Action, Drama or Musical, or Slapstick Comedy or Thriller.
Phoenix Film Foundation Executive Director, Jason Carney reviewed the rules of the competition and revealed the prop and line that must be used in every film: a mop and the line, “You look very familiar”. Phoenix Film Foundation President, Chris LaMont sent the teams off at 6:30 pm to make their films.
Teams then had 48-Hours to complete their 3-minute film. Twenty teams met the deadline and turned their films in by 6:30 pm on Sunday, January 24 at the IFP/Phoenix offices in downtown Phoenix. Those 20 films will be screened and will be eligible for awards at the February 4, 2010 at 7:00 pm screening at Harkins Scottsdale 101 Theatres. The remaining 2 films were completed and turned in past the deadline and will be screened however, they will not be eligible for any awards.
The Phoenix Film Foundation/IFP Phoenix 48-Hour Challenge is the longest running in the Valley. It’s a part of the yearlong Beat the Clock short film challenge. At the February 4 screening, certificates for Specialty Awards (Best Acting, Directing, Writing, Technical, Line and Prop + fun awards) will be awarded. The Top 15 teams will be announced; the top 5 will move into the Spring Finals. The Audience-voted favorite (from 6-20th place) will also move into finals. Cash prizes of: $250 for first place, $75 for second and $50 for third will be awarded.
The Beat the Clock Finals, set for April, includes a number of prizes:
Best Picture (Overall Film)
The top five films and the audience favorite from each round-18 films total - will advance to the finals held at the 2010 Phoenix Film Festival. The grand prize Best Picture Winner, as voted on by the Phoenix Film Critics Society will win $1,000, automatic selection to the 2011 Phoenix Film Festival, a one-year IFP/PHX membership + more.
Specialty Awards
The Winners from each round in the respective categories (Best Director, etc.) become the nominees for the finals. IFP Phoenix members vote on these awards and winners are presented with a trophy.
Best 48-Hour Team
The top 15 teams in each round receive points. The team with the most points at the end of the three rounds will be named Best 48-Hour Team, will receive a trophy and $500. Point distribution for each round: 1st–25 points; 2nd–22; 3rd–20; 4th–18; 5th–16; 6th–13; 7th–10; 8th–8; 9th–7; 10th–6; 11th–5; 12th–4; 13th–3; 14th–2; 15th–1.
Tickets: Tickets are $10 for the screening and are now on sale at BPT or, by calling 602-955-6444.
SCREENING:
When:Thursday, February 4, 2010
Time:7:00 PM
Where:Harkins Scottsdale 101 Theatres