Tales Told In October 2009
Week of October 05, 2009
You probably heard about “InLight,” the art event that recently took place downtown. Dave Park shot and I edited a video for 1708 Gallery to show what it looked and felt like.
Click here to see it or visit the Media Gallery above.
Speaking of videos promoting the region, River City (Richmond, VA) has taken off on YouTube. The idea came from members of YRichmond. Dana Bolfing (Park Group) recruited her coworkers Nathan Burns and Stuart Holt to help with the project.
Many of us have known for ages, but they’re officially letting the poop out! Jody Boyd, Marna Bales and Melanie Cox are the proud founders of 9WG Studios a 5,000 square foot studio space at 9 West Grace (hence the name). It’s home to Red Amp Studios (Formerly Far West Audio), Spang TV, Mad Box Post and other production industry people who might like to join in. Contact Marna to take a tour. BTW, one name that was tossed around was Graceland (again for the address), but the intellectual property issues were obvious.
Park Group’s Nick Kleczweski produced, edited, and directed a doc entitled “The Snake The Cross The Crown”, which premiered at the Louisville Film Festival this weekend.
In Virginia Production Alliance news, the monthly meeting is tonite at Artworks and the “Friends with Benefits” party is this Wednesday nite. Details below under 9/21.
Long-time Park Group editor Larry Whitlock finally tied the knot with Leigh Nance (BMA).
Local stuntman Kid Richmond is in Jordan shooting “Route Irish” (directed by Ken Loach). He worked as stunt driver and special fx/ stunt rigger along with other local guy Barrett Snow.
New reviews of “Invention of Lying,” “Bright Star,” ‘My One & Only,” “Informant,” “Jennifer’s Body,” “September Issue,” “9.” Click here for these reviews and more.
Week of October 12, 2009
Turns out the big scoop wasn’t worth “holding the presses.” At least not yet. Watch future weeks for more.
Additional guests have been announced for the Virginia Film Festival. In addition to John Waters and Alan Ball (which I posted in September), others include Annette Bening, Matthew Broderick, Cherry Jones and director Norman Jewison. The website lists all of the scheduled films and information on other events like an Independent Film Panel and the Adrenaline Film Project, which is looking for directors and actors.
Meanwhile, the 2010 Virginia Independent Film Festival, sponsored by the Virginia Film Office, is now accepting entries in 3 categories: Features (over 20 minutes), Shorts (under 20) and Documentaries. It’s open to all Virginia residents and students attending Virginia schools. Entries with completed registration form MUST be received by the by 5pm 11/24. Click here for entry form (no entry fee).
New reviews of “Whip It,” “Capitalism,” “Invention of Lying,” “Bright Star,” “Informant,” “Jennifer’s Body.” Click here for these reviews and more.
Week of October 19, 2009
There will be no “Tales” next Monday. Will be back Nov 2 with a look at 9WG, the new facility on Grace Street.
We were saddened to hear of the death of actor Jack Parrish last week. If you would like to help his family cover their medical/burial expenses, Contact William Blair.
Virginia Production Alliance news: Starting next Monday (10/26), the Richmond Chapter will hold its monthly meetings at a new location and will be more about networking. They’re open for location suggestions and need a place centrally located with ample parking that serves foods/drink and has a relatively quiet area for meetings. They’re held 6-8pm on Mondays. Email your suggestions.
They VPA is also actively forming committees to implement initiatives that will ensure Virginia is a vital place to work. If you want to get involved show up at the meeting next Monday.
Digital Video Group has a job opening for a Technician/Installer (skills with Mac and PC’s, basic networking and video). Email resumes.
Doug Burford is concerned about local production talent leaving the area because of lack of business. His own experience revolves around the Christian Children’s Fund account. Burford Advertising
produced their spots for 17 years (with the ubiquitous Alan Sader), then the client changed their name to Child Fund, got an LA agency and moved the work away. However, Save the Children contacted Burford and hired them to handle their campaign. He’s proud to report that all of the work was done right here! Email him if you’d like to see it.
The deadline for entries to the Adrenaline Film Project is today. See last week’s entry for details.
The 3rd Annual RVA Arthouse Short Film Fest showcases independent filmmakers throughout the state. Entries are being accepted now thru 12/1 (show is 12/5). Contact Rebekah Frimpong for details.
“River City Blue,” the first dramatic feature film from the VCUarts Cinema Program, will screen on 7pm, 10/22 at the Grace Street Theater. It was shot by Freshmen last year and finished over the summer and features Mark Joy, Beau Marie, Montres Henderson and Kera O’Bryon.
“Walter Gaines’ Frequent Response” is the VCU Film Department junior class workshop to be shot this winter (on 35mm). There will be a casting 10/28, 6 – 9 pm at the Pollak Building (325 N. Harrison St.) Room 305. Bring headshot/resume. Contact Dustin West for details.
The Richmond Ad Club is having their next Happy Hour on 10/29, 5:30 – 7:30 at Water Grill. Free for members, $15 for guests.
New reviews of “Paranormal Activity,” (“Where the Wild Things Are” coming by Wed), “Zombieland,” “Whip It,” “Capitalism,” “Invention of Lying,” “Bright Star.” Click here for these reviews and more.
