back
DIRECTOR'S JOURNAL
DAYS 21-25
DAY TWENTY ONE: "3 . . . 1 . . . 2" (enter BREEZY & "B")
Call to set - 8:30pm ET
If the 312 party scene we shot this night was a real party, the level of citations that would have been stapled to our skin, the number of arrests, the babies that would have been made that night!
As the room fills with a foggy mist and bass punching music, we start with the generous attendance of professional choreographers/dancers/entertainers, Cameron Passley, Oscar Maganga [WE CR3W]. Then the night opens:
Bodies are injected with liquids from red cups, glass bottles, and funnel-tubes as ladies dance on tables and powders evaporate through rolled dollar bills. In the corner some folks toss what looks like Tic-Tacs and SweetTarts under and over their tongues while a few bodies are passed out by a couch.
Bottles, cups & cans, and spills.
Tainted fish tank. Random pills.
Broken toilet. Pissing in a bush.
Rolling tobacco. Rolling kush.
The hottest chics. The shortest skirts.
The wildest dudes get sweaty shirts.
T&A and S&M.
Girls on Girls. Girls on Men.
Arm wrestling. Vicious cursing.
Neon lights and Body surfing (thanks Kassem)!
The heavens were shamed when we raised hell!!
This is what went down at 312!!
Don’t know why I got all poetry-guy at the end there, but the result of the party SCENE was EXCELLENT!
Joslyn Oberdorf [BREEZY] and Vickie Stevens [“B”] were quite the duo. While watching the dailies I thought about the fateful (if you will) events that led to their being cast. I can’t explain how happy I am with the result. Vickie was a force as she played the party consumed, raging “B”! Joslyn was as wild as she was enticing as she seduced DAVE (Mike Voutsinos) as Breezy.
Shawn Joseph [HOAGIE] played the room just right! Sipping beers, multiple hats (the big purple pimp one got attention), “teaching” the break-dancers how to dance, working up the ladies and the crowd, and protecting the Lead from the attacks of a rampaging jealous girlfriend (that scene was great)!
The MVP award of the night must go to the special guest star of the party, Mr. Dave Matthes himself. The author of the book the film is based on made an appearance and rocked the fk’out! He didn’t disappoint his fans as he jammed with a silver flask in hand and his sexy (outgoing and fun) date in arms.
Props and thanks to my Assistant Director Dimitri Voutsinos throughout the night. Thanks to DJ DNC (Chad Townsend) for the party lights and the fog machine that added the final touch. Thank you Ms. Veronica Venom for selecting or set over the paying gig you could have went to (much respect)! And many thanks to Ms. Kim for allowing her house to be turned into the opening scene of The Wizard of Oz. Mike Voutsinos (the best Lead Actor/Crew Member this side of the moon)I thank you for helping pull the night together and taking half the blame for the results and the “destruction” of the set. The list is long and I appreciate all: I THANK ALL the party-goers and performers for attending and putting on their best vibes and hanging in there for the 5 plus hours.
Now, what I look forward too is the wrap party which just may turn into the 312 movie scene… but as a reality… and by the premiere party heheheh… I’m going to get locked up!
… l love what I do! … I love it! ^o^
Call to set - 8:30pm ET
If the 312 party scene we shot this night was a real party, the level of citations that would have been stapled to our skin, the number of arrests, the babies that would have been made that night!
As the room fills with a foggy mist and bass punching music, we start with the generous attendance of professional choreographers/dancers/entertainers, Cameron Passley, Oscar Maganga [WE CR3W]. Then the night opens:
Bodies are injected with liquids from red cups, glass bottles, and funnel-tubes as ladies dance on tables and powders evaporate through rolled dollar bills. In the corner some folks toss what looks like Tic-Tacs and SweetTarts under and over their tongues while a few bodies are passed out by a couch.
Bottles, cups & cans, and spills.
Tainted fish tank. Random pills.
Broken toilet. Pissing in a bush.
Rolling tobacco. Rolling kush.
The hottest chics. The shortest skirts.
The wildest dudes get sweaty shirts.
T&A and S&M.
Girls on Girls. Girls on Men.
Arm wrestling. Vicious cursing.
Neon lights and Body surfing (thanks Kassem)!
The heavens were shamed when we raised hell!!
This is what went down at 312!!
Don’t know why I got all poetry-guy at the end there, but the result of the party SCENE was EXCELLENT!
Joslyn Oberdorf [BREEZY] and Vickie Stevens [“B”] were quite the duo. While watching the dailies I thought about the fateful (if you will) events that led to their being cast. I can’t explain how happy I am with the result. Vickie was a force as she played the party consumed, raging “B”! Joslyn was as wild as she was enticing as she seduced DAVE (Mike Voutsinos) as Breezy.
Shawn Joseph [HOAGIE] played the room just right! Sipping beers, multiple hats (the big purple pimp one got attention), “teaching” the break-dancers how to dance, working up the ladies and the crowd, and protecting the Lead from the attacks of a rampaging jealous girlfriend (that scene was great)!
The MVP award of the night must go to the special guest star of the party, Mr. Dave Matthes himself. The author of the book the film is based on made an appearance and rocked the fk’out! He didn’t disappoint his fans as he jammed with a silver flask in hand and his sexy (outgoing and fun) date in arms.
Props and thanks to my Assistant Director Dimitri Voutsinos throughout the night. Thanks to DJ DNC (Chad Townsend) for the party lights and the fog machine that added the final touch. Thank you Ms. Veronica Venom for selecting or set over the paying gig you could have went to (much respect)! And many thanks to Ms. Kim for allowing her house to be turned into the opening scene of The Wizard of Oz. Mike Voutsinos (the best Lead Actor/Crew Member this side of the moon)I thank you for helping pull the night together and taking half the blame for the results and the “destruction” of the set. The list is long and I appreciate all: I THANK ALL the party-goers and performers for attending and putting on their best vibes and hanging in there for the 5 plus hours.
Now, what I look forward too is the wrap party which just may turn into the 312 movie scene… but as a reality… and by the premiere party heheheh… I’m going to get locked up!
… l love what I do! … I love it! ^o^
DAY TWENTY TWO: "Ingredients For Disaster" (enter BAMBI)
Call to set - 8:00pm ET
This day we had to use our guerilla film making skills. Without admitting anything, we got the location that we needed without getting the location.
We met Jenna Kuerzi [BAMBI] months ago during audition. It did not take long to recognize her spark and her skill then soon after chatting, her dedication to her craft. Today we met Jenna with a note that we were going to be running up in a location to film, getting the shots, and getting out of there, no questions asked on the location. Her response: “Let’s do it.” And with that, the night was ours, and the location was ours to invade!
The scene was that DAVE runs into BAMBI while shopping for the ingredients to his infamous bacon-brownies. We did indeed get the shots we needed with only one “interruption”: An employee pulling a beeping electric hand-truck with 9ft of store stock past our actors. As the man passed Jenna and Mike [DAVE] held character and just went with it! The way they kept the scene going until I called, “cut” is to be applauded. Skill. Dedication.
We are so glad and very lucky to have Jenna Kuerzi on board this project. I look forward to part two of filming also, for the opportunity to work with her again. In the meantime-between time the crew and I can always check her out in one of her various on-stage productions.
Hard working artists- a great networking and motivational source to surround oneself with. ^_^ See ya on Day 24 Jenna!
Call to set - 8:00pm ET
This day we had to use our guerilla film making skills. Without admitting anything, we got the location that we needed without getting the location.
We met Jenna Kuerzi [BAMBI] months ago during audition. It did not take long to recognize her spark and her skill then soon after chatting, her dedication to her craft. Today we met Jenna with a note that we were going to be running up in a location to film, getting the shots, and getting out of there, no questions asked on the location. Her response: “Let’s do it.” And with that, the night was ours, and the location was ours to invade!
The scene was that DAVE runs into BAMBI while shopping for the ingredients to his infamous bacon-brownies. We did indeed get the shots we needed with only one “interruption”: An employee pulling a beeping electric hand-truck with 9ft of store stock past our actors. As the man passed Jenna and Mike [DAVE] held character and just went with it! The way they kept the scene going until I called, “cut” is to be applauded. Skill. Dedication.
We are so glad and very lucky to have Jenna Kuerzi on board this project. I look forward to part two of filming also, for the opportunity to work with her again. In the meantime-between time the crew and I can always check her out in one of her various on-stage productions.
Hard working artists- a great networking and motivational source to surround oneself with. ^_^ See ya on Day 24 Jenna!
DAY TWENTY THREE: "The Final Ride"
Call to set - 2:00pm ET
Day 23 was an important one. We shot the final scenes in the movie; the last scenes, but not the last filming day. We’ve got a bit more to go.
In these final moments we see DAVE (Mike Voutsinos) the morning after a deeply intoxicated, hallucinating, soul searching experience. He had faced his demons the night before, and now awaits his good friend SLIM’s (Ryan Feeley) arrival, for two of them are about to embark on yet another adventure.
Dave has thought about his life from a perspective he never has before- from the other side (that scene has not been shot yet). His thoughts from that night carry over to this new morning, and into Slim's van, and on to the highway roads. Dave has been placed in a mental as well as a literal fork-in-the-road. He has to make a decision, choose a road to take. Either road would have a great impact on not only his life, but the outcome of this tale that has been told, and ultimately the reactions of all in the audience.
I really felt the story being pulled together tighter, once this day was closed.
Watching someone face a decision sometimes makes you look at yourself and face your own.
This was an important day, on camera and on set.
Call to set - 2:00pm ET
Day 23 was an important one. We shot the final scenes in the movie; the last scenes, but not the last filming day. We’ve got a bit more to go.
In these final moments we see DAVE (Mike Voutsinos) the morning after a deeply intoxicated, hallucinating, soul searching experience. He had faced his demons the night before, and now awaits his good friend SLIM’s (Ryan Feeley) arrival, for two of them are about to embark on yet another adventure.
Dave has thought about his life from a perspective he never has before- from the other side (that scene has not been shot yet). His thoughts from that night carry over to this new morning, and into Slim's van, and on to the highway roads. Dave has been placed in a mental as well as a literal fork-in-the-road. He has to make a decision, choose a road to take. Either road would have a great impact on not only his life, but the outcome of this tale that has been told, and ultimately the reactions of all in the audience.
I really felt the story being pulled together tighter, once this day was closed.
Watching someone face a decision sometimes makes you look at yourself and face your own.
This was an important day, on camera and on set.
DAY TWENTY FOUR: "Bacon Brownies Under A Neon Sunrise"
Call to set - 6:00pm ET
I have had to ask of the actors in this film to do many things. Some things they have never done on camera before, or have ever done before period. But tonight… tonight was a first for me.
This was actually the first scene described to me by the editor of the book [The Slut Always Rides Shotgun] when approached for consideration for making the film. As she delivered me the details of Bambi and her moments with Dave I couldn’t help but think to myself, “What the hell would I be getting myself into by making this film?” Months later, I now know.
Jenna Kuerzi [BAMBI] and Mike Voutsinos [DAVE] were here on set for the second time. Different setting. Different mood. Same talent. Same Dedication. Without spoiling the scene I must commend the both of them for stepping out of their comfort zones and taking a bit of a risk with their performances. Their chemistry off camera was almost sibling-like. Joking and laughing much like their “special” bacon-brownie munching characters.
My skill as Director/Cinematographer was also put to test. The good old showing-something-without-showing-everything tricks pulled from my bag.
With a production such as this one trust is a very big factor. Some of the scenes are of a delicate nature and the complete work is itself a controversial piece. The trust Mike and Jenna put in me this night helps to boost my dedication to providing a production that they can/will be proud to have been a part of overall. I hope everyone who is on board this project will look at their work with such pride. As we move forward, I know I am.
Call to set - 6:00pm ET
I have had to ask of the actors in this film to do many things. Some things they have never done on camera before, or have ever done before period. But tonight… tonight was a first for me.
This was actually the first scene described to me by the editor of the book [The Slut Always Rides Shotgun] when approached for consideration for making the film. As she delivered me the details of Bambi and her moments with Dave I couldn’t help but think to myself, “What the hell would I be getting myself into by making this film?” Months later, I now know.
Jenna Kuerzi [BAMBI] and Mike Voutsinos [DAVE] were here on set for the second time. Different setting. Different mood. Same talent. Same Dedication. Without spoiling the scene I must commend the both of them for stepping out of their comfort zones and taking a bit of a risk with their performances. Their chemistry off camera was almost sibling-like. Joking and laughing much like their “special” bacon-brownie munching characters.
My skill as Director/Cinematographer was also put to test. The good old showing-something-without-showing-everything tricks pulled from my bag.
With a production such as this one trust is a very big factor. Some of the scenes are of a delicate nature and the complete work is itself a controversial piece. The trust Mike and Jenna put in me this night helps to boost my dedication to providing a production that they can/will be proud to have been a part of overall. I hope everyone who is on board this project will look at their work with such pride. As we move forward, I know I am.
DAY TWENTY FIVE: "The Beauty and The Priest" (enter AMY)
Call to set - 12:00pm ET
This day went by with a breeze much like the cool, relaxing one received on this beautiful Sun-stained day. Great weather, great shots, great talent! One guess how this day was.
I wish every day of filming had weather that felt this good. Almost forgot what east coast state we were in.
Erik Searle [THE PRIEST] came from out of state, arriving early and on time and accompanied by a young woman who was to audition for our film to help put the finishing touches on it. (Good luck to her, for the auditions is still on going, although hers went very well!)
Erik had been on wait for months now due to our “unique” film scheduling. His short yet potent scene could not be shot until we had a time slot where our lead, Mike Voutsinos [DAVE] could shave his face to play a younger version of his character. Erik came in and knocked his scene out like a pro! Throughout the hours remaining ever so humble and full of not only energy, but gruesome tales of gore and blood from prior films he has worked. He was a pleasure to work with and one can clearly see that he loves what he does. I can’t wait to check out his other projects to see what he’s really made of! He was a great addition to ours, this I know.
Also cast to play a part in the younger years of our film was Katie Frederick, who plays AMY (the lead, DAVE’s first love). Katie and Mike really brought to life these significant moments with such talent and conviction it almost seemed effortless. This is not the first time these two actors have shared the screen together and I hope it’s not the last. Seems they have developed an unconfirmed chemistry and respect that compliments both their individual skill and the camera’s lens. Nothing taken from Mike, but it had been confirmed about a year ago that the camera loves Katie. She has an undercover vicious screen presence that will snatch up attention with magnetic potency (it’s like thespian-ninjitsu - I made a word!). And don’t think that it is but only her appearance, for the girl is truly blessed in her craft. We are happy and fortunate to have had another opportunity to work with Katie again, and are looking forward to the future collaborations!
This day was truly a pleasure. Unlike most film days when we are drenched in tension, dramatic shots and dialogue, explicit material, while racing the clock or the sun, and just loving every moment of the invigorating madness… these were quite peaceful scenes. Serenity set the tone for a melody of innocence. Quiet. Calm. Intimate moments.
A little bit of what I needed at this time. Of what we all need at some time. InDeeD.
Call to set - 12:00pm ET
This day went by with a breeze much like the cool, relaxing one received on this beautiful Sun-stained day. Great weather, great shots, great talent! One guess how this day was.
I wish every day of filming had weather that felt this good. Almost forgot what east coast state we were in.
Erik Searle [THE PRIEST] came from out of state, arriving early and on time and accompanied by a young woman who was to audition for our film to help put the finishing touches on it. (Good luck to her, for the auditions is still on going, although hers went very well!)
Erik had been on wait for months now due to our “unique” film scheduling. His short yet potent scene could not be shot until we had a time slot where our lead, Mike Voutsinos [DAVE] could shave his face to play a younger version of his character. Erik came in and knocked his scene out like a pro! Throughout the hours remaining ever so humble and full of not only energy, but gruesome tales of gore and blood from prior films he has worked. He was a pleasure to work with and one can clearly see that he loves what he does. I can’t wait to check out his other projects to see what he’s really made of! He was a great addition to ours, this I know.
Also cast to play a part in the younger years of our film was Katie Frederick, who plays AMY (the lead, DAVE’s first love). Katie and Mike really brought to life these significant moments with such talent and conviction it almost seemed effortless. This is not the first time these two actors have shared the screen together and I hope it’s not the last. Seems they have developed an unconfirmed chemistry and respect that compliments both their individual skill and the camera’s lens. Nothing taken from Mike, but it had been confirmed about a year ago that the camera loves Katie. She has an undercover vicious screen presence that will snatch up attention with magnetic potency (it’s like thespian-ninjitsu - I made a word!). And don’t think that it is but only her appearance, for the girl is truly blessed in her craft. We are happy and fortunate to have had another opportunity to work with Katie again, and are looking forward to the future collaborations!
This day was truly a pleasure. Unlike most film days when we are drenched in tension, dramatic shots and dialogue, explicit material, while racing the clock or the sun, and just loving every moment of the invigorating madness… these were quite peaceful scenes. Serenity set the tone for a melody of innocence. Quiet. Calm. Intimate moments.
A little bit of what I needed at this time. Of what we all need at some time. InDeeD.