(Photo by Glen D. Ross)
NBFC E-news - Thursday, July 23, 2009
Spotlight!
NEW BRUNSWICK FILM CO-OP 30TH ANNIVERSARY WEBSITE!
Check out the NBFC anniversary website! Send your stories and tributes to cat at: info@nbfilmcoop.com
http://www.nbfilmcoop.com/30years/
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CHECK OUT THE NEW CO-OP ACTIVITY CALENDAR ON THE FILM CO-OP HOMEPAGE ON A REGULAR BASIS! WWW.NBFILMCOOP.COM
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MEMBER UPDATES MEMBER UPDATES MEMBER UPDATES
Saint John based Film Co-op member Gretchen Kelbaugh and Norean Goldston are finishing the edit of Gretch's feature documentary on women and politics. It looks at:
- why we need more women elected in Canada, the USA and UK
- why we don't have more women politicans already
- how can we quickly elect more women.
Click here to view her film trailer.
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MEMBER UPDATES MEMBER UPDATES MEMBER UPDATES
Fredericton based Film Co-op member Ryan O'Toole is an 18 year old actor and filmmaker. He has recently starred in major roles in many theatre productions around Fredericton, such as: Benedick in FHS's production of Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing, Fagin in TNB Theatre School's production of Oliver Twist, and as Moon in a student directed production of Tom Stoppard's The Real Inspector Hound.
His most recent film, Unconditional, was the winner of Best Director, Best Actress, and Best Picture at the Fredericton High School Film Festival, making him the proud recipient of the NBFC Jump Start Award. He hopes to see Unconditional and perhaps another film (if he gets the time to make one) shown at this year's Silver Wave Film Festival in the fall.
Ryan is very honored and excited to be a member of the Film Co-op.
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MEMBER UPDATES MEMBER UPDATES MEMBER UPDATES
Howdy --
Just thought I'd let you know that the NotaBle Acts Theatre Festival in Fredericton is going to do a reading of my play Conrad & Barbara , Monday July 27th at 8 pm at the Beaverbrook Art Gallery, admission is free.
Naturally, if you're in the neighbourhood, it would be great if you could come!
Hope you're having a happy summer!
cheers,
BIOGRAPHY
Lex Gigeroff was head writer on the cult international science-fiction series Lexx, as well as a co-creator of The Comedy Network's El Mundo del Lundo, and a creative consultant for This Hour Has 22 Minutes. Conrad & Barbara is his first play since The Last Ten Days of Mulroney in 1993.
Gagetown member Lex Gigeroff
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Training & Development
Contact cat at: info@nbfilmcoop.com to register for all workshops please. Workshops can be paid for through PayPal, snail mail or in person, but check to ensure there are seats left before you pay by snail mail or online please.
NOTE: for those members hoping to use Co-op resources and equipment to shoot their own projects in the future, please remember there are 5 required workshops that you have to take before you can do that (Screenwriting, Directing, Digital Cam and Lighting, Production Management & One Editing Workshop). On top of the required workshops, volunteers hours must be put in and you must be a full member in good standing. Talk to Cat if you have any questions: info@nbfilmcoop.com
If you miss any required workshops or workshops you would like to take, there is also one-on-one training sessions with instructors for a fee that you can arrange with Co-op staff at any time.
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FREDERICTON - KIDS FILMMAKING SUMMER CAMP!
ALMOST FILLED!!
On August 10-14, the New Brunswick Filmmakers' Co-operative is hosting a Filmmaking Summer Camp for middle school students (Ages 9-15), co-ordinated by Film Co-op Filmmaker Michel Guitard. Cost is $150 per student
Program Outline
script writing
production management
directing
shooting and recording sound
picture, sound editing and music placement
distribution of your finished project
Camp runs from 9am - 5pm each day at the Charlotte Street Arts Centre (732 Charlotte Street) and kids should bring a lunch each day although there will be light snacks and liquids on hand.
Only LIMITED spaces available and registration is open now! Don't miss out on this incredible experience! Please contact Cat Leblanc at: info@nbfilmcoop.com or (506) 455-1632 to register.
INSTRUCTOR PROFILE
Michel Guitard is a prolific young filmmaker, cameraman & editor who has worked on over 75 productions through and outside the NB Film Co-op in different crew positions from the age of 10 to 19 years old. He has done many of his own films; one of them, a Short Film Venture film entitled "Simon Hunter."
Michel is the Technical Director at the NB Film Co-op.
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Festivals
SILVER WAVE FILM FEST 2009
We've changed our dates for Silver Wave this year.
MARK THESE NEW DATES IN YOUR CALENDAR FOR NOVEMBER 2009!
November 5-8 (Thursday-Sunday)
www.swfilmfest.com (email cat if you have any questions)
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The Arts
FREDERICTON - UNDER THE STARS: CLASSIC FILMS IN THE PARK
July 26 at Dusk
SHORT FILM SCREENING BEFORE FEATURE
Real Men Drink Their Coffee Black
Director: Josh Linton
Writer/Producer: Matthew Linton
Cast: Josh Linton, Jason Chisholm
Length: 4:00
Contact:
Josh_linton@rogers.com
Screening Format: Mini DV
Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada, 2008
Two friends take their daily break from a hard day of logging, enjoying their routine of coffee. Tensions rise when Murray's obsessive coffee making habits drive Henry to the edge.
Gentlemen Prefer Blonds
(1953) (1 hr and 37 minutes)
Starring: Marilyn Monroe, Jane Russell, Charles Coburn, Elliott Reid, Tommy Noonan, Norma Varden, George Winslow, Marcel Dalio, Taylor Holmes
Director: Howard Hawks
Lorelei Lee (Marilyn Monroe) and her friend Dorothy Shaw (Jane Russell) are a pair of showgirls, Dorothy the sassy one looking for true love, Lorelei the blonde hoping to marry a millionaire, with her sights set on Gus Esmond, a wealthy nerd stuck under his father's thumb. When Lorelei and Dorothy take a transatlantic cruise to Paris, an undercover detective follows to find out if Lorelei is really a gold-digging schemer. Unfortunately, the irrepressible Lorelei is a born flirt and soon finds herself in a compromising position with Sir Francis Beekman (Charles Coburn), owner of a diamond mine. The girls have to use all their wits to get out of trouble and still find love and marriage. Thanks to the talents of the luminous stars and director Howard Hawks, plus stunning technicolor cinematography, GENTLEMEN PREFER BLONDES emerges as one of the most charming, entertaining musicals of the 1950s. Marilyn Monroe, never more luminous, sings her legendary musical number "Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend" (which later inspired Madonna's "Material Girl" video). GENTLEMEN PREFER BLONDES is based on the hit Broadway musical which was adapted from the book by Anita Loos.
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Biz & Indie Film News
Scene from Here There and Everywhere
By Jim Lavoie
(Jimbo recapturing his hair days - photo by Jennifer Mersereau)
UNDER THE STARS
They say imitation is the highest form of flattery, and case in point is the popular Fredericton summer staple, Under the Stars: Classic Films in the Park (co-developed by Film Co-op member John Christenson) and featuring as one of its partners the New Brunswick Filmmakers' Co-op, which has spurred similar events elsewhere in New Brunswick. There is something special about an outdoor showing that is family friendly that harkens all of us back to a memory or time spent in our youth (yes I can still remember back that far). It is also cool for member filmmakers, like BronweN from Fredericton or Pamela Gallant from Cap-Pele to name just two, to have their short films up on the big screen in front of a large crowd before the feature plays. This is just another example of how the NB Filmmakers' Co-operative interacts with not only the city of Fredericton, its citizens, and tourists but the whole province as the short films screened come from all over NB. The Film Co-op, now in its 30th year, continues to be a vibrant part of the cultural mosaic of New Brunswick. Oh yeah, almost forgot, Under the Stars is free to all.
MONCTON MEMBER PRODUCTION UPDATES
Sifting through the Co-op's online member production calendar is cool. Moncton Film Co-op member Donovan Richard has a short film coming up. XIII is a short historical drama about a young man who is pursued by a group of barbarians who track him out into a field and surround him. This man is pushed into a corner, but he won't go quietly. Big Donner wanted to shoot an action film using his fellow martial artists from his Aikido class and this project will do the trick. And here I thought Donovan was a gentle soul! Turns out that when he's smiling calmly and gently at me, he is actually picturing us both in loin cloths doing hand to hand combat to the death...gulp.
MEMRAMCOOK MEMBER PRODUCTION UPDATES
Memramcook Film Co-op member Patricia Leger is crossing her fingers and her toes that she will get a Short Film Venture grant to shoot her short drama Bows and Arrows in August with the Film Co-op and NB Film's support. Her story follows a group of children in rural New Brunswick circa 1930 who are preparing for the up-coming fair. The children place bets on who will be crowned the Brussels Sprout King or Queen. Onboard are intrepid and tirelessvolunteers and co-op members Danny Thebeau and Donovan Richard as crew. Please contact Danny at: if you want to volunteer and help them out!
SAINT JOHN MEMBER PRODUCTION UPDATES
Kudos to Saint John member Jeremy Robinson who recently got a paid gig doing some work for the world renowned
Check out what he did at: http://www.vaulttour.com
FREDERICTON CULTURAL CAPITAL UPDATES
Had fun on the set of Tony Merzetti's Francis Sherman and who knew that the late 1800's rocked (well, sort of). The first weekend of shooting was like being in a time warp. No, this was not based on my college days but a vivid re-enactment of what lead to Fredericton's legacy of being the poet's corner of Canada. Good stuff on both sides of the camera but the highlight, outside of Cat's need for speed (heavy foot syndrome when rushing actors to set), had to be the screen debut of Christine Bissonnette who handled her role with poise and grace. Also noteworthy, high quality acting per usual, from Jeff Bates Boerip as Francis Sherman. The super duper team will wrap things up this coming weekend under the direction of Tony Merzetti who is also dop.
What's that tantalizing smell on the backburner? Could it be a taste of what's cooking up next as another Cultural Capital production is ready to be served up. BronweN's A Saturday Affair is on the production menu starting Aug 8. Everything you wanted to know about the history of Samosa and the amazing family who brought it to Fredericton are contained in this story.
These projects would not be possible without the support of Canadian Heritage, City of Fredericton and the New Brunswick Filmmakers' Co-operative
MUSIC
A good friend of mine, arguably one of the finest singer songwriters in New Brunswick, Andy Brown has a CD release party at the Capital on Aug 1 Check it out at: Click Here
Remember Members, I can't spotlight you if you don't give me your news!
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NEW BRUNSWICK JOY AWARD DEADLINE: OCTOBER 16, 2009, 5PM
If you are a member in good standing with your volunteer hours in and training and are interested in applying for this prestigious grant, email Cat at: info@nbfilmcoop.com and she will be happy to give you advice and help.
What You Win:
$10,000 in rental services and $500 in materials from PS Atlantic (Halifax)
$3,500 in equipment or facilities from the New Brunswick Filmmakers’ Co-operative.
$1000 cash from New Brunswick Film.
$1,000 in film stock from Kodak Canada Inc.
Applicants or co-applicants must be NB resident with permanent, ongoing residence in the Province of the Award. Past recipients can apply again at least 12 months after receiving their past award: their past Award project must be completed, and required reports and material received by the NB Film Co-op and LJMAS. In this Award session, requests for retroactive financing are ineligible, as well as for film or video transfers. There are no project length restrictions. Applicant must maintain creative control.
Application material list;
Synopsis (25 words)
Project description (1-2 pages)
Biography or curriculum vitae
Treatment or sample script (up to 10 pages)
Budget, itemized revenue and expenses (Telefilm format is requested but not required)
Timetable
DVD support material on one disc (e.g. past completed work) (VHS is no longer officially supported by major manufacturers*)
Written support material (e.g. published reviews)
Entry fee of $20
Rough edit on DVD if applying for post (optional if applicable)
NOTE - do not use staples or any type of binding. Photographs, posters and other non-photocopyable material must be supplied in 3 copies or examples. Materials are not returned without adequate SASE, or can be picked up by appointment. One complete set of material from each successful applicant will become part of the NB Film Co-op & LJMAS Archive.
*Applicants are encouraged to contact Cat at info@nbfilmcoop.com with questions about submission formats and media, before submitting material. Any digital formats or media must be Windows, Mac and Unix compatible. DVDs must play on any standard DVD player.
Adjudication
New Brunswick Joy will be adjudicated by a New Brunswick peer-review jury and submissions can be given or mailed to the NB Film Co-op. The composition of the juries is confidential. Selection will be based on the innovation and creativity of the proposed project, with priority given to: emerging artists and established artists exploring a new genre or medium. Consideration will be given to the applicability of the award(s) being sought and to the applicant’s demonstrated ability to complete the project as planned and budgeted.
Award recipients must agree to the following terms and conditions:
• to report project progress to the LJMAS at intervals and manner specified in the Award contract.
• to acknowledge the Society and Award Sponsors by name in the project and to do so according to the terms of the Award contract.
• to use the award within one year on only the submitted project (extensions must be requested in writing solely through the LJMAS).
• to provide material for archives and publicity purposes to the LJMAS as described in the Award contract, and to have their name and image appear in publications.
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HALIFAX - AFRICVILLE: CAN'T STOP NOW
Released: July 12th, 2009
Airs on The Documentary Channel July 23rd, 10 pm
CBC Television Atlantic July 25th, 10pm
Synopsis: 40 years after the Africville relocation descendants are still wanting a resolution. Africville: Can’t Stop Now is the story of 3 men. They are dealing with the painful history and the hopeful future of their people.
One brother continues his almost half century protest on the land,. Another works diligently with policy and people to help find a respectable compromise: the rebuilding of their church. Their cousin is focused on doing whatever it takes to keep people hopeful and moving forward.
With a moving spiritual soundtrack, Africville: Can’t Stop Now is a journey into the past with a realisation of the power of the spirit in a persistent community.
For more information contact:
Marty Williams
Producer
(902)
229-7332
martywilliams@eastlink.ca
Juanita Peters
Director
(902)
448-3794
wepeople@hotmail.com
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CANCELLATIONS "A DISASTER," SAYS DOC GROUP
by: Amy Haggar, Playback.com,
Jul 20, 2009
CBC's cancellation of both The Lens and Wild Docs is "a disaster for independent documentary filmmakers," according to John Christou, the co-chair of the Documentary Organization of Canada, who noted on Monday that the end of the two series comes amid uncertain times for nonfiction filmmakers.
""In the last 12 months, documentary filmmakers have been dealt a succession of blows," says Christou, citing the closure of both of the Canadian Independent Film and Video Fund and CTV's doc unit, and "the cloud of uncertainty" that surrounds the Canada Media Fund.
The Ceeb has said it will roll the shows into its newly expanded The Passionate Eye, now set to air seven nights a week on Newsworld. The Lens ran for just over three years, focusing on smaller and POV documentaries.
"We understand that the CBC is under enormous financial pressure at the moment," said Christou, "but DOC believes that public broadcasters in the 21st century need to increase support for diversity, as opposed to shunning it in favor of an industrial model."
The CFTPA also called the cancellation of The Lens "a very disturbing signal."
"Canceling this outlet... will further reduce the diversity of voices and stories told to Canadian audiences," said president and CEO Norm Bolen in a statement.
CBC spokesperson Jeff Keay has said that, despite its financial pressures, the network remains committed to documentaries. He says the cancellations will result in layoffs of perhaps two or three people, perhaps by the end of the year, though the details remain foggy.
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Advertise
FREDERICTON - CASTING CALL
There will be an open casting call for a short film this week and next week for volunteer actors! Experienced or first time actors all welcome! Primarily seeking women aged 20-25 and men aged 30 and up. Sides will be provided to the actors upon arrival, and if you have any questions please email Jillian Acreman, jillianacreman@hotmail.com
Thursday July 16th, 6:00-9:00pm, Charlotte Street Arts Center, 3rd Floor Cocuy Room
Thursday July 23rd, 6:00-9:00pm, Charlotte Street Arts Center, 3rd Floor Cocuy Room
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EXCITING JOB OPPORTUNITY!
I have left Arts Ottawa East and am not working at NRCan. We are looking for a videographer who can join our team of scientists in the Arctic for 45 days. The ship leaves in about 10 days. We had someone lined up, but they just pulled out. Are you, or is anyone you know interested in this type of contract?
Micheline Joanisse
Media Relations Officer / Agente, Relations avec les médias
Natural Resources Canada / Ressources naturelles Canada
Tel: 613-996-4283
Fax: 613-992-7373
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FREDERICTON: A CULTURAL CAPITAL FILM CASTING CALL
Historical fiction film “Venus in Flames” being shot in Fredericton NB, is seeking volunteer actors. Film is a drama based around the famous Fredericton Exhibition Palace (1864-1877).
Looking for a variety of Actors in the ages of 18+. Be prepared for hangings, explosions, and a large fire. If you think that you would like to act in fantastic film come to the casting call. Contact Chris Giles at wildgiles@gmail.com
Location:
Room 202,
Charlotte Street Arts Center
732 Charlotte Street,
Fredericton, NB
Casting Times:
Sunday July 26th, 2pm - 5pm
Monday July 27th, 6pm - 9pm
This project would not be possible without the support of Canadian Heritage, City of Fredericton and the New Brunswick Filmmakers' Co-operative