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In
this Issue...
-NB Arts News
-NBFC News/Member Updates
-NBFC Writer's Retreat
-Submit Your Stories to the Film Co-op
-Advertise in Film Co-op E-News
-Paid/Volunteer Work
-Funding for Projects
-Co-op and Outside Workshops
-Festival Deadlines
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NBFC
Writer's Roost Retreat
Ancient Greeks
and Romans called upon Eros, or Diana, or an appropriate muse.
When Amy
Whitmore of modern day St. Andrews brought together scriptwriters from Moncton,
Fredericton, and Saint John, they spontaneously adopted Wilbur the Pig as their
muse, and gnawed their way through the knots of structure, dialogue,
characterization, setting, and "resonance." Scriptwriting combines
artistry with rigid format, and the participants helped one another with
problems in their scripts - and gave kudos for jobs well-done.
There
is a strong volunteer filmmaking community in New Brunswick, a "breeding
ground" for some who wish to make their way onto paid productions.
Saturday, May 7th's workshop participants come from a variety of backgrounds.
Pauline
Cronin, an actress from Rothesay, NB, has appeared on stage and in feature
films. She has moved from a happy career as Chartered Accountant and investment
industry executive to the self-financing career of scriptwriting. A mother of
two, she took an intensive on-line course in scriptwriting from home to
properly learn the craft.
Gretchen
Kelbaugh of Quispamsis is a former science teacher who has won several awards
for her scripts. One script aired on CBC, she is currently doing
post-production on her first feature film shot last spring, and has shot two
documentaries. For one of those, on education, she travelled to the Dominican
Republic. She thanks her mother for supporting her filmmaking.
Cathie LeBlanc, full-time staff member at the NB Film Co-op, channels the bulk
of her energy into helping Co-op members. All of Saturday's participants were
members of the New Brunswick Filmmakers' Co-op, and have shot films through the
Co-op, or volunteered on shoots. Cathie has also launched a career as a
documentary filmmaker and, a blues vocalist long before she stumbled into the
Co-op, composes and records original music for films.
Young
Tim McDonough of Saint John is a recent graduate of NSCAD's film school. One of
his short films won a People's Choice award at the Tidal Wave Film Festival,
and he is planning a shoot next month in Saint John with NB Film Short Venture
program support. He told Amy to tell all her friends that he "loves St.
Andrews!"
Bunthivy
Nou of Fredericton in fact grew up in Black's Harbour and graduated from Fundy
High, as well as UNB. With a Certificate in Film Production she's crewed on a
number of Co-op films, and is now putting her own shoot together. At the same
time she does Marketing & Comunications for the New Brunswick Climate
Change Public Education and Outreach Hub at the New Brunswick Lung Association.
Dennis Poirier of Moncton's Redleaf Productions is an Aliant Internet geek by
day, and budding filmmaker by night. This summer he shoots his second thriller,
"Dead Flies."
Christina Wood, a mother and part-time staffer at the Film Co-op, is a graduate
of a digital media design and production program. An artist, she is planning
her first film shoot for 2006.
Amy Whitmore of St. Andrews and owner of Wilbur the Pig has won script awards
and writing scholarships. She shot her first film in St. Andrews in 2003 with
an all-St. Andrews cast, and is crewing for Jeff Comb's Deer Island shoot to
improve her filmmaking knowledge. She is shopping around a feature film and a TV
series concept "set in an historic seaside village."
By discussing the scripts that they've written
the writers got a sense of how their writing could be interpreted and advice on
how to solve problems in their scripts. They discussed the common problems of
carving out writing time - essentially an unpaid apprenticeship - and
"industry news." NB-er Doug Sutherland shot his own feature and
managed to get it into the Empire Theatre in Fredericton, where it was actually
held over for a week. Saint John Empire Theatres wouldn't give it a try,
claiming they know what their audience will and will not attend. Saturday's
group combined both filmmakers who don't care if they ever make a cent,
and those who want more made-in-New Brunswick productions over those developed
elsewhere and only shot in New Brunswick.
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Appreciate the Co-op Staff
I've been a member of
the Co-op for one year and I'm based in an isolated area of New Brunswick far
away from all the cities. There are a lot of very creative people in my area
but they are isolated from each other and they don't talk or get together at
all.
A friend of mine from another isolated area told me all about the NB Film Co-op and that is how I became involved. He
said it was the arts community to be a part of in the province.
My instant response was, "it's too far away". My friend then explained to me that the Co-op was
everywhere and I had to see beyond the physical space located in Fredericton to
the community which is the actual Film Co-op and that community literally
stretches out over the entire province and goes into many other provinces and
countries as when members move they still stay in touch with the staff. I was very dubious quite frankly and
said as much. How could a place be everywhere? He wouldn't give up though and
told me about the staff at the Co-op and their tireless work towards creating a
virtual office and promoting the centre's membership no matter where they live.
When I visited the
Co-op for an orientation, I met this mystical staff. They talked about the
history of the Co-op, the resources, the workshops, the films, the videos and
the members.....they talked about the members a lot actually and not just the
members in Fredericton but everywhere in NB. The staff help connect people with
other people and they assist in grant writing and budgeting as
well....they take people through the entire process of film and video making with
the help of the membership.
They never talked about
themselves at all though. These were my first impressions of them: Cathie was
adorable, friendly and extremely knowledgeable and loves the Co-op and it's
membership, I can see that love oozing out of her pores, she can barely contain
herself and she's funny too. She also makes really, really strong coffee.. Tony is a
real gentle giant and a modest man with an amazing intellect and a truly corny sense
of humor. Rodrigo is very sweet and smart and loves music...there is always
music playing when he is working.
I also noticed that
they never talk about themselves! I talked more to my friend who is a member and
I had to find out from him that Tony recently won an excellence award for
cultural development in the arts for the province of NB. Wow that's really cool.
He also teaches film at the University and he is a very talented cinematographer
and has his masters in business. My friend told me Cathie used to work with
terminal seniors before she came to the Co-op and did production management on Co-op films and videos for a
long time. She composes music and sings and has done songs for films and videos
and creates her own documentaries. Rodrigo is an excellent camera, lighting
& sound
guy for video and television and edits too. He does alternative documentaries
and documentaries with social and cultural themes. My friend who has been around
longer than said he found out this info from another member.
The staff spend a lot
of their time nurturing and helping people and it's not about the money as the
pay at charities is pretty bad, everybody knows that. I find this all so intriguing because I tried to
be jaded about the Co-op. My friend made it sound like it was too good to be
true...."there had to be a catch", I thought to
myself. But the staff sucked me
into the Co-op. As soon as I walked in the door, I knew that this was a place
with many layers of acceptance and love...yes love for the arts and for the
members no matter what their culture, creed, sexual orientation or
location.
It is a place where the
people who work there understand what the Co-op is and what it could be in the
future. I simply can't be jaded when I'm faced with the staff's overpowering
passion for the arts community in NB, they won me over damn them. If they can
commit so much of their time to all of the province then certainly I can put in
some time to travel to participate in events held at the Co-op. Surely I can
help out in any way I can to get things moving not only in my own area....but in
other areas of NB. It's the least any of us in the membership can do.
Maybe that's what has stuck
with me the most....that it's not just about me and where I live. I have to stop
being so micro and in my own little bubble and start thinking as the staff do
that it's macro and we all have to take care of each other where ever we live in
NB.
On an end note. Cathie
was extremely uncomfortable about putting this article in the Co-op e-news as
she felt the emphasis in all the articles members write should be on themselves
or other members or Co-op activities as it's important to focus on the community
which is the Co-op not the operational aspect of the centre. Sorry Tony, Cathie
and Rodrigo, you count too and you should always be mentioned as you keep us all
going and anyone who doesn't understand that doesn't get what the Co-op is all
about. Members please appreciate the Co-op staff and treat them with respect.
anonymous
committed co-op member
Contact the Film Co-op at: info@nbfilmcoop.com
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Advertise
in NBFC E-News/Classified Ads
Member wants to crew on Co-op productions this summer
Tim McDonough a Film school grad is looking to get involved
with Indi film scene in NB. McDonough was recently overheard
saying, "I know F#!k9n everything.
" Tim trained as a photographer for three years at a reputable
art school and then switched to film and completed his degree.
Tim has since photographed on 7 films, done grip work, and written
and directed a number of his own short films.
He is also a trained artist so he doesn't listen... a great
problem solver, skilled in design, and an all round asset. If
you would like a copy of McDonough's CV please email: mo_jo100@hotmail.com
and feel free to call Tim at (506) 696 6081.
Member Casting Call
A Saint John indy project called ‘As
the sun casts no Shadow’, seeks several actors, experience not necessarily required, for
a shoot in May and June. It is a retro-styled, thematic short, set in
an alternate world, where vestiges of nobility attempt to settle inner conflicts
of pride and existence through a pistol duel.
The following are needed:
Leo - a collected leader; a tall guy with long hair age 25-35.
Jack- an indolent hedonist; age 17-22.
- a prudent peacemaker; age 16-21.
- gang members for a suave, 70's rock star style gang (the longer the hair the
better) Ages 24-35
We also could use some crew help
for sound, continuity, lighting and general assistance. We’d be happy to have anyone and
we will provide food, drink and transportation (in Saint John area).
Please contact Liza:
extra@nbnet.nb.ca
or Philip
energyflows@rogers.com
Please include a current photo for
consideration.
For
Sale
16mm Bolex model #816 reflex film camera with 4 lenses (10mm,
16mm, 25mm, 75mm). It comes with various accessories including
cable release, also Lowepro case. $1400 or best offer. Also
available Harrison change tent - $300 or best offer. Contact:
Chuck Clark (902) 423-2283 or email: chkclark@hotmail.com
Panasonic DVC-PRO Professional Video Camera AJ-D400 along with
playback deck Panasonic AJ D440. I have been shooting with this
camera for over a year now and the picture is incredible!!!
This is a serious camera and deck for high end video intended
for broadcast...3 Half Inch Chips!!!!
Even the new Sony HD cameras don't have chips that size in them!
Anyhow, the camera on e-Bay right now is going for $6000 American,
and the Deck is around $5000. I am selling both together for
$6000. I am putting it up on ebay this week so if anyone is
interested get in touch soon as I wont have it for much longer.
Why am I selling it? Well despite the new Sony HD's smaller
chips, we just bought one and now have no need for an extra
camera. read on Tel: !
506-639-6785, greg@hitmedia.ca
(or get the same info at: http://www.lemac.com.au/sales/hware/dvc/CAMS/400.html
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Paid/Volunteer
Work
Paid Work
Curator of Contemporary
Art
The Art Gallery of Windsor is accepting applications for
the position of Curator of Contemporary Art.
Working with the Director and staff to develop the
gallery's exhibition program, the Curator of Contemporary Art will be primarily
responsible for implementation of the contemporary art program, including
exhibitions, publications, and the development of related public programs. The
ideal candidate will have a sound understanding of contemporary art practices
locally, nationally, and internationally. Exceptional research and writing
abilities are required. The Curator of Contemporary Art will also be required to
contribute to the institution in associated areas such as: the collecting
activities of the institution, preparation of grant applications and reports,
maintenance of publicity and media relations, and the production of written
material for private and public sector
funding.
Qualifications
The search committee will consider applicants that can
demonstrate a combination of the following
attributes:
Work history within an art gallery or
museum
Experience in curating exhibitions and publishing
catalogues within a Canadian public art gallery or
museum
Extensive knowledge of contemporary
art
Exceptional conceptual, analytical, and
communication skills
Strong administrative
skills
Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team
environment
E-mail a letter of application, resumé, and 100-word
narrative detailing your interest in the position, the AGW, and contemporary art
within the Windsor
context to Gilles Hébert, AGW Director, at ghebert@agw.ca.
Application deadline:
May 31,
2005
Paid Non-Linear Editing Instructor Needed to Teach Final Cut Express HD!
My name is Brent Ferris and I recently purchased final cut express HD
software. I am looking for someone familiar with that software who
could help bring me up to speed. I live in Fredericton and can be
reached at 443-7873, and of course I am willing to pay for the service.
Volunteer Work/Donations
- Saint
John Co-op member Richard MacQueen would like to thank
the Co-op staff for all their help. They went out of
their way to help him track down members with equipment
in his neck of the woods who helped him out on his
production. A special thank you to S.J. based Co-op
member Connell Smith for loaning Richard a light kit.
-
Thank you to New Co-op member Siobhan Russell for hosting the first
"Flick Night", and to Krista Goguen for attending.
PLEASE
LET US KNOW AND WE WILL SPOTLIGHT A DESERVING CO-OP MEMBER/SUPPORTER/SPONSOR/VOLUNTEER
IN THE CO-OP
E-NEWSLETTER
Donations needed for the Co-op:
- LIQUID SOAP
- PAPER TOWELS
- DONATED
PRIZES FOR CONTESTS
This all
counts as volunteer hours for new members!
If your time is limited, donations are the way to go!
Click here to read more about needed volunteer
activities
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Funding
for Projects
New
Brunswick Arts Board
http://www.artsnb.ca/
Linda
Joy Media Arts Awards
http://www.lindajoy.com/
The
Canada Council for the Arts
http://www.canadacouncil.ca
BravoFACT
Email:
bravofact@bravo.ca
TELEFILM
http://www.telefilm.gc.ca
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Co-op
and Outside Workshops
Workshops
on Demand!
BOLEX,
BOLEX, BOLEX
(Theory
and Hands-On)
Instructor: Chris Giles
Call (506) 455-1632 or email Cathie at: info@nbfilmcoop.com
to set up your own private workshop session
with Chris on the Bolex Camera. You could do a day or evening workshop however long, tailored to your busy schedule
for a reasonable price. This is a fun interactive workshop!
This extreme "hands on" course covers the features and modes
of Bolex usage, which includes loading, meter reading, frame
control, in-camera effects, and most important, in-camera editing.
Participants will learn to script for the in-camera edit and
how to control their shoot, especially transitional effects,
special effects, titling, etc. When the shoot is over, the film
in the camera will be done
INSTRUCTOR'S BIOGRAPHY
Originally from Nova Scotia, Chris has lived in Fredericton
for the past 7 years. He has 10 years experience with photography
and received two emerging artist grants from the New Brunswick
Arts Board to work on photo installation projects.
As well as
being a member of the SilverFish photo collective, he has exhibited
over a dozen group shows and 3 solo shows of his photography.
Chris is a Co-op member and has worked on 3 Co-op shorts doing
stills and lighting. He has also done hand processing of Super
8 and 16mm film. Chris is familiar with all of the Co-op smaller
film cameras.
Acting Class for Beginners in Saint John
6:30 pm-9:30 pm.
Tuesdays from May 10-June 28 (6 classes, plus one performance night, class will
not be held May 17). Location: To be determined. This class introduces
participants to warm-up exercises, vocal techniques, and the basics of
performing scenes on stage. Participants will end the session with a performance
night for family and friends. This class is ideal for people who have minimal or
no experience with stage performance or scene study. Facilitator: Stephen
Tobias. Class size: Limited to 12.
Note: Participants will perform scenes
each week with each other. It is important that all participants are able to
attend all sessions of the class. Cost: $125 ($100 for SJTC members). To
register: Call (506) 634-1990 and leave a message.
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Film
Festival Deadlines
Korea¡¯s
Educational Broadcasting System International Documentary Festival.
We are currently accepting entries
until July 10, 2005
www.eidf.org
 Enter
your film in the 2005 Continental Drift Short Film Festival.
In this, the festival's second year, dozens of short films celebrating
the world's cultural and cinematic diversity, as well as focusing
on local talent, will be screened over two days. Festival screenings
will take place on September 24th and 25th , 2005 at the
Dennis R.
Knibb Auditorium in Saint John.
We would love to see your work! Please submit your short film
(fifteen minutes or less in duration), on any subject, for consideration.
The deadline for submissions is May 16, 2005. Films received
after May 16th, 2005 will automatically be entered for consideration
for the 2006 festival.
For full submission details, please refer to the entry form
and submission information available at
http:www.cdrift.ca We look forward to viewing your
submission!
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NB
Arts News
Moncton
Members check out a new alternative magazine right in your neck of
the woods! Mascaret (independent culture and environment) www.mascaretmedia.ca
Editor: Louise Barton-Duguay.
Email: editor@mascaretmedia.ca
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NBFC
News/Member Updates
Here's a little something fun I whipped up
the other day...
http://www.rantaboutit.com
Stop in and have a few laughs, maybe be a bit disturbed; but
certainly
submit a RANT about something.
Then spread the word... I think this should become the next
internet hot
phrase. First there was "google it", now whenever
you hear someone
complaining about anything... you can tell them to
RANT ABOUT IT!"
Have fun!
dhomas trenn
founder, creative interpreter - youngmonkey
http://www.youngmonkey.ca
305 Southampton Drive, Fredericton, NB, E3B 4T5, Canada
phone: 506.459.7088
Next Upcoming Flick Night!
Where: The NB Film Co-op (51 York Street)
When: May 31, Tuesday night at 7pm
Why: Because it's Fun!
What to Bring: Your
own Liquid Refreshment....Cathie will make popcorn.
Cathie's Pick for this "Flick Night" is
"The Man Who Wasn't There"
Ed Crane is absent indeed in The Man Who Wasn't There, the latest film
from the Coen brothers. The man that shares Billy Bob Thornton's features
traverses the world that surrounds him as such a phantom that nobody notices
him. Dull and stripped of all emotion, he is the perfect subject for a black and
white film noir.
Crane the neighborhood barber is the prisoner of an insipid life. Married
without love to Doris (Frances McDormand), one day he sees the opportunity to
escape his destiny while by becoming a business partner in a dry cleaning
venture. In order to get the necessary funds, he decides to blackmail Big Dave
(James Gandolfini), Doris' boss and with whom she has an extra-marital affair.
But obviously, as usual in Coen brothers' films, the plans will not go as
planned.
The
Man Who Wasn't There is above all an exercise of style.
The purpose of the
characters, the story and the décor is only to recreate the troubling atmosphere
of film noir. The slow rhythm, music and the use of black and white film pay
homage to the genre. The use of the light and shadows, a superb photograph and
the rigidity of Billy Bob's face combine wonderfully to make each shot an image
of the epoch. The film locations, like Old Town Orange in California, reinforce
the authenticity of the whole, instead of merely filming on a stage.
The full-length film is therefore not an empty work since it casts an eye
full of affection on the America of ordinary people one does not see, but who
still have their place in society. Though it certainly shows the banality of
their lives, it does not mock them. The characters are neither pathetic, nor
crazy. Rather, they are rather the victims of their destiny.
The Man Who Wasn't There is surely one of the Coen brothers darkest films, but also one of most
conventional since it voluntarily yields to the rules of a genre. It has neither
the eccentricity nor the provocation that made their reputation, nor the fun
that made their commercial success. Humor was not forgotten, nor was the irony
of fate.
Billy Bob Thornton is perfect in the title role. His
coldness is glacial and he renders his character almost transparent, so much is
he detached. Frances McDormand is not outdone, while James Gandolfini (The
Sopranos) is undoubtedly at ease between a good mood and toughness.
Remember to check out the archived
e-news issues on the Co-op website: http://www.nbfilmcoop.com
Monthly Orientation
Sessions
May 25, 12 noon, Film Co-op (51 York
Street)
Please email Cathie to confirm you are coming for an
orientation or if you have any questions about the criteria for applying to the
production committee
or anything else.
cathie@nbfilmcoop.com
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A Filmmaker's Evolution
NBFC Member Profiles!
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