Tales Told In March 2008
Week of March 03, 2008
The bill that extends the sunset clause on Sales and Use Tax Exemption until 2019 was passed by the General Assembly a full year before it was due to expire! Director of the Virginia Film Office Rita McClenny says, “The letters, emails, financial contributions and personal visits from all of you were impressive and effective. I would like to personally thank every one who took an active role in the legislative process. You really did make a difference! I am particularly appreciative for the assistance of Virginia’s production and post-production companies. These businesses make the most use of the exemption and therefore stand to benefit most from this legislation. Those who took an active role in the process are to be congratulated.”
Liz Marks, who has been a casting agent (and talent) in Richmond for decades, is fighting her cancer again. Uptown Talent is going strong and her health insurance is in force, but it doesn’t cover a significant percentage of her medical costs. Members of the production community are banding together (with Liz’s OK) to help. If you want to contribute, contact John Moon.
In case you weren’t watching or didn’t notice, local art director David Crank was mentioned in this years Oscars telecast. Robert Ellsworth (who won for cinematography on “There Will Be Blood”) said, “John Toll won this a number of years ago said that the production designer on his movie, that 50% of it belonged to him. Well, 80% belongs to Jack Fisk and his production crew. And David Crank and Dylan Tichenor.”
Meanwhile, “War Dance,” an Academy Award nominee for best documentary, featured the location sound services of a Richmond’s Glen Piegari.
Gearhead Camera just took delivery of a Sony EX-1 Cinealta camera with 35mm PL mount adapter. Email for rates.
They’re looking for a Network Analyst at VCU’s Brandcenter to handle computer-related stuff and work with students/staff/ faculty on graphics, video editing and web related software
VCU student Daniel Nelson is casting 3 actors for his senior project. Auditions are 3/5, 7-9p.m in Room 205, Pollak Building (325 N. Harrison St.). Download the script.
“Virginia’s Top Model” (Episode 3) will air 3/19 at 8 pm on WRIC TV8.
New reviews of “Vantage Point, “In Bruges,” “Persepolis,” “Definitely, Maybe“ “Savages,” “There will be Blood.” Click here for these reviews and more.
Week of March 10, 2008
Eleven years ago this month, “Tales from the Grips” began dishing the dirt!
John Shand, the first voice on Richmond TV (April 1948), died last Sunday. In addition to being an announcer, he did just about everything else at the station until he retired in 1983. The last time I spoke to him at last year’s Broadcasters Hall of Fame dinner, he was friendly, chatty and even remembered the retirement video I produced for him. Gosh, I’d forgotten it! He was 90.
There was an article in Television Broadcast about Jay Silvio’s SkyWire uplink truck being burglarized in NJ. According to the article, he was so upset that he threw up in the bushes next to his truck. There was one great quote: “I’ve been through two wives and two girl friends. This truck and I get along.”
Jai’s Cinema and Astray Productions are casting for a short film to be directed by Calvin Jamison. Auditions are 3/18-19. This is a non-paying production. Email for details and to reserve your space.
Stephen Brandt is looking for an experienced freelance media buyer (local and statewide markets). Send text-only emails, no attachments.
RVA-TV and Astray Production are producing a new TV show focused on music to feature interviews and live performances. It’s called RVA / HOUSESHOW and they’re looking for camera operators (with their own cameras). Contact Joe Carabeo.
Entries are now being accepted for the 18th annual Rosebud Festival. Selected productions will be screened 6/14 in DC.
Someone is selling a collection of Civil War and some Revolutionary War costumes. Email if interested.
Virginia Film Tours kicks off a new tour: “Horsing Around in Virginia,” based in Middleburg.
New reviews of “10,000 BC,” “Miss Pettigrew,” “Vantage Point,” “In Bruges,” “Persepolis.” Click here for these reviews and more.
Week of March 17, 2008
VPA Chair Terry Stroud has completed an update on our success with the General Assembly. Here’s the short version:
1. We received $200,000 incentive funding per year for the next 2 years. Even though it’s not millions, considering the enormous state budget deficit, the fact we received anything clearly shows we won the support of the legislators.
2. As reported March 3 (see below) the sales tax exemption was extended until 2019. This represents an unprecedented 10-year renewal and reinforces the fact that we are supported.
He continues, “I want to thank all members of the VPA, the Task Force and other industry professionals for their active support and contributions to the lobbying fund. We mobilized as never before and each of you made a huge difference. I would also like to thank the Advantus Strategies team for their active efforts and effective strategies.”
To read the full text of Terry’s message, visit the Virginia Production Alliance website.
The 15th edition of the James River Film Festival is 3/31-4/6 at the Byrd and Firehouse Theatres. Guests include Richmond native and writer/director of “Donnie Darko,” Richard Kelly, father-son filmmakers Ken and Azazel Jacobs, filmmaker and community media advocate DeeDee Halleck, the Richmond Indigenous Gourd Orchestra, and filmmakers Rob Tregenza and David Williams. Visit the website for details.
The VPA is hosting their Annual Meeting and 20th Anniversary Party 3/31, 6 pm at Artworks (320 Hull St). You’re invited. Visit the website for details and RSVP by 3/27.
In other VPA news, they’re in the process of launching a new promotional initiative, “Grow It Local,” and are looking for a short animated piece (6 – 15 secs) that illustrates the theme. It will be used on the website and in other promotional capacities (essentially a new branding opportunity). First place will be awarded the VPA 2007 GOLD Animation Award and $125 and a free 1-year membership to the VPA. There are additional prizes and all additional specs on the website. Postmarked by 4/30.
The “John Adams” set is being used for another feature. “Border Town” will be shooting in April around Richmond. Producers include (deep breath) Adam Sledd, Lucas Krost, the Branching Films, Mark Joy, Chris Williams, Finest Hour Films. Chris is directing with Mark acting. The crew is in good shape, but anyone who’s interested, especially PA/interns email them.
The guys from RVA-TV (as mentioned last week) are throwing a launch party 3/22 at Cous Cous. If you want to get involved in creating original programming, contact Adam Sledd.
There’s an audition 3/18 from 9 – 2 at In your Ear (1813 E. Broad St). They’re looking for actors who are fluent in Spanish or can do the accent. Shoots in Richmond in April. Email for more information.
New reviews of “Funny Games,” “10,000 BC,” “Miss Pettigrew,” “Vantage Point,” “In Bruges,” “Persepolis.” Click here for these reviews and more.
Week of March 24, 2008
Did you know that in less than a year (2/17/2009 to be exact) all of the old familiar local TV stations will no longer broadcast over the air?
After 16 years at Circuit City (his first job out of college) Michael Reeder is becoming director of Broadcast Creative at Carmax.
We hear that a camera is about to paint the town RED.
The Mass Communications Club at Virginia State University needs short films from VA filmmakers for their festival on 4/2. Call Brandon Miles 434-378-1644.
Richmond’s winner in the 48 Hour Film Project, “Feels Like Drowning,” will be one of 12 screened at a special Cannes Film Festival in May.
Actors who want to work for experience (no pay), here are 3 opportunities:
A comedy titled, “No Nerds At NASA” (shooting this summer). Auditions: 3/19, 11 – 6 at Artemis Gallery (1601 West Main). Contact director Cory Tapia for details.
A SciFi project (shooting this summer): Contact for details.
“We Got Issues” is looking for a Caucasian female to play a college student. Contact for details.
Liz Marks is teaching her “Acting For The Camera Workshops” on 3/30 at Comedy Sportz (7115-A Staples Mill Road). Adults (15+) 4-6:30, kids & teens (7-14) 1-3:30. Parents are encouraged to attend and participate in a Q&A about show business. Kids must be able to read. $100 per class. Contact Liz to register.
New reviews of “The Bank Job,” “Funny Games,” “10,000 BC,” “Miss Pettigrew,” “Vantage Point.” Click here for these reviews and more.
Week of March 31, 2008
After almost 20 years in Richmond (TV-6, BES and Metro) Ray Voltz is relocating with Wachovia Securities to St. Louis this summer. He’d like to say, “Thanks to the wonderful production family here in Virginia—it’s been great working with you! Stay in touch.” (No word yet on his production cohort Larry Gordon’s decision).
“Bad Girls,” the latest film from David Williams, will be screened by the Virginia Film Society, 7pm, 5/1 at Vinegar Hill Theatre, Charlottesville. It’s a doc about artist Keithley Pierce. Williams and Pierce will be on hand for a Q&A after the screening.
New reviews of “Stop-Loss,” “The Bank Job,” “10,000 BC,” “Miss Pettigrew,” “Vantage Point.” Click here for these reviews and more.