NBFC E-news - Thursday, May 28, 2009
Spotlight!
nbfc 30th ANNIVERSARY ACTIVITIES
NEW BRUNSWICK FILM CO-OP 30TH ANNIVERSARY WEBSITE IS ONLINE!
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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30TH ANNIVERSARY MEMBER ARTICLE
Interview with alumni member Delia Martin
Cat: Can you remember how you became involved in the Film Co-op? Who got you involved if anyone and your very first activity done at the Film Co-op?
Delia: In spring of 1984, my next door neighbour saw an advertisement calling for actors for Spectre of Rexton . She called the Film Co-op to enquire if there might be any parts for her small children - which there weren't - and ended up volunteering to work as crew. She talked me into joining her. I was a little reluctant at first because I also had small children and wasn't sure if I would have time for something like that.
I went along with her to a pre-production meeting and I was hooked. Everyone involved was so friendly and interesting and I must've been a little starved for adult company. I threw myself into the production and never looked back. I loved the whole filmmaking process and how like a family we became.
I worked on many small productions through the 80s and 90s and sat on the Film Co-op board of directors for over 6 years. I attended Film and Video Producers Conferences on PEI on 3 or 4 occasions. I also worked on a few professional shoots - film and video - and was actually paid to do work that I was happy to do for free at the Film Co-op.
Here it is, 25 years later, and I'm still involved with the Film Co-op, albeit in a much reduced role - volunteering at Silver Wave and occasionally at the Monday Night Film series. My friend? She lost interest in filmmaking shortly after Spectre wrapped. She missed out on a LOT.
Cat: What was your sense of the people involved at the time in the mid 80's? Did they strike you as a really passionate group of people who were in tune with each other and the Co-op's objectives? Can you list some of the people you knew then?
Delia: I found all of the people I met at the Co-op to be extremely friendly, helpful and interesting. They were, and still are, a very diverse collection of souls from all age groups and walks of life. Everyone seemed committed to making the Co-op a vibrant film community. Everyone was more than willing to share their skills and knowledge with others. Everyone was…well…co-operative. I remember working with Tony Merzetti, Bob McLeod, Scott Webster, Heinz Gloss, Jill Benn (then Canney), Shawn Fitch, Kwame Daws, Chris Campbell, Kevin Matthews, Tony Sekulich, Andrew Long, Janet Clarke, Errol Williams, Dave Clark, Rick Seguin, (rest in peace, Errol, Dave and Rick), and many more.
Cat: Do you have any funny funny moments whether on an early set or meeting or social that has stuck with you all these years?
Delia: I'm not very good at recounting humourous events. I do know that I shared a LOT of laughs with a LOT of Film Co-op people over the years. My favourite moment occurred on the set of A Darker Side . One of my jobs was to operate the slate. A simple enough chore, one would think. One afternoon, I had to leave the set for about an hour to pick up Kevin Matthew's wife at the airport because he was operating the camera and couldn't leave. I was the most dispensable person on set at the time, or so it seemed. One of the actors was given the job of using the slate until I returned. Imagine my surprise to receive a standing ovation when I walked back on set. Apparently, the actor completely botched the job by doing everything one could possibly do wrong with the slate. I felt quite important for the rest of the shoot.
When working on a film shoot, the people involved usually become quite close-knit. Everyone shares in the work, the waiting, the aggravations, the temper flares, the satisfaction of a perfect take and, of course, the laughs. I loved working on films and I wish I had the time to still do it.
Cat: You have observed many changes at the Film Co-op over the years…what would be three of the big changes you have noticed over time?
Delia: Well, of course, there's the move to the current location from the one on York Street. I still miss the York St. location sometimes because it holds so many fond memories for me, but the Film Co-op really outgrew it. I think it's good for the Film Co-op to be in such close proximity with other arts groups.
There has also been a huge change in technology over the years. The shift to digital media is phenomenal and makes the visual story-telling process so much more accessible.
Also, the Film Co-op has been more in the public eye these last 10 years or so. The film festival and the Monday Night Film Series have helped to bring the Co-op to the attention of the general public and that's a very good thing. I remember getting a lot of blank stares when I mentioned the NB Filmmakers' Co-op back in the mid-80s, but it seems that more people are now aware of the existence and function of the Co-op.
Cat: What do you think the magic is at the Film Co-op that holds Tony Merzetti here when others have moved on over time to other jobs, activities etc... This year, he will turn 50 and in a lot of ways, he is also celebrating volunteering and working at the Film Co-op long term. In fact, it will be 23 years by the end of this year (2009) that he has been involved.
Delia: Tony may have been coordinator for 23 years, but, as you know, he was involved in the Film Co-op long before that. He was already a fixture at York Street when I joined in 1984. Tony is lucky enough to have found his true vocation. His skills and personality make him perfectly suited to his work. Not many of us find our dream jobs - the place where we can feel fulfilled, challenged and rewarded (though Tony was always underpaid for his services to the Film Co-op and I can only guess that he still is.) I think Tony found his "happy place" and I wish him all the best.
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NBFC MEMBER CREW AND CAST DATABASE ONLINE
Cat has created a new film/television crew database for Film Co-op members.
Go to this link to check it out: http://www.nbfilmcoop.com/crew.htm and check out some of the crew profiles online now....more to come!
Any questions: email Cat at info@nbfilmcoop.com
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MEMBERSHIP STUFF, MEMBERSHIP STUFF, MEMBERSHIP STUFF
Recent Renewals and New Members for 2009: Malick Kamara (Fredericton), Walter Schenkel (Grand Manan).
Memberships run from Jan-Dec annually for all members and we appreciate members renewing in January/February every year. Please email Cat to renew soon if you have not already.
NEW MEMBERS: Things you can do to get your required volunteer hours in: For new members specifically who need to get their volunteer hours in. Check in with Cat about volunteer work on member shoots coming up as she can give you the filmmakers names and emails and you can directly get in touch with them.
Click here to send Cat the volunteer hours you have put in so far as a member of the Film Co-op.
THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU
- Thank you to Gretchen Kelbaugh and Suzy Short for volunteering to teach the recent acting workshop through the Film Co-op's workshop series. We appreciate you both doing this!
- Thank you to Jordan Roherty for volunteering to teach the recent music for film workshop through the Film Co-op's workshop series. We appreciate you doing this!
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Training & Development
The New Brunswick Film Co-op proudly presents its 2009 annual workshop program!
This year there are workshop programmes in both Fredericton and Moncton . Check out the new schedules at: http://www.nbfilmcoop.com/activities.htm
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GUN WRANGLING & WEAPONS SAFETY FOR FILM
Film Co-op Training and Development - Coming Up!
(Intro - Theory)
June 15, Mon, 7pm-10 pm
Instructor: Gary Ferguson
Location: New Brunswick Film Co-op
(732 Charlotte Street, Fredericton)
Charlotte Street Arts Centre, downstairs resource centre
Fee: $15 For Film Co-op Members
$25 For Non-Members
Class Limit: 7
Thinking of using a firearm for your next film?
Whether you are planning to shoot the next "Reservoir Dogs" or uncomfortable with firearms, this is the workshop for you. The seminar will introduce you to the basics in gun wrangling, and what to look for. The seminar covers basic weapons handling, legal obligations, and safety protocols while firearms are on set.
INSTRUCTOR'S BIOGRAPHY
Gary Ferguson has been working in the entertainment industry for 20+ years, the last several doing firearms handling and rentals for theatre and film. He has done everything from lace doilies in local theatres to bus explosions for large Hollywood features. Recent credits include the latest Trailer Park Boys feature in Halifax, "Dog Pound " and "A Dark Radius" shot locally.
Gary is a member of IATSE 849 and New Brunswick's only registered gun wrangler for film, the first for the Maritimes, and has been a large voice in proper weapons handling for the industry since 1995.
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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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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)
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SILVER WAVE FILM FEST FILMS ARE MAKING THEIR MARK
NORM
Congratulations to Teresa MacInnes and Kent Nason of Sea to Sea Productions on their double win at the Yorkton Film Festival! Recently, their film 'Norm' was honored with two awards: Best Social/Political Documentary AND Best Overall Film!
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TIME APART: A HISTORY OF HOPE
For immediate release
RACHEL BOWER'S JOY AWARD WINNING DOCUMENTARY TIME APART: A HISTORY OF HOPE WILL SCREEN AT THE LIGHTHOUSE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 2009, & TORONTO HOLOCAUST EDUCATION WEEK 2009
WINNER OF THE 2004 NEW BRUNSWICK JOY AWARD, TIME APART: A HISTORY OF HOPE, TRACES THE REUNION OF A FAMILY SEPARATED FOR DECADES BY WORLD WAR TWO AND THE HOLOCAUST.
The Lighthouse Film Festival takes place in Long Beach on June 6 2009.
Toronto’s Holocaust Education Week starts November 5, 2009.
The Linda Joy Media Arts Society congratulates Atlantic filmmaker RACHEL BOWER on the continuing success of her film TIME APART: A HISTORY OF HOPE.
Time Apart traces Alice Zuckerman's search for a family separated by war and genocide. She lost contact with her family following the chaos of the Second World War, but never stopped hoping against the odds to find them again someday. Notes scribbled on torn fragments of paper lead seventy-seven year old Alice on a search through Eastern Europe. The landscape of Alice's youth is vastly transformed by politics and changing times, but she discovers it remains alive among the many people she encounters in her search. "Hope is the last thing to die," Alice tells us, and shows us that hope is not the only survivor.
Rachel Bower is an Atlantic Canadian filmmaker, based in New Brunswick. Her work focuses on documentaries which reveal the humanity and sometimes hidden histories of people, often in surprising places. Her films range from a documentary about compassion and triumph despite adversity; Akain Wari: Building the Niger Delta, to a documentary following Baton Twirling Champions, Baton Twirling Canada.
Time Apart: A History of Hope, 42 min, documentary, director Rachel Bower.
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The Linda Joy Media Arts Society provides support and recognition to outstanding emerging media artists, filmmakers and script writers.
The Linda Joy Awards alumni include many of this region's most successful and critically acclaimed talent like Helen Hill (Director, Bohemian Town, Madame Winger Makes A Film, Mouseholes, etc), Rodrigue Jean (Director, Lost Song, Full Blast, etc), Andrea Dorfman (Director, Love That Boy, Parsley Days, Flower In My Pedal, etc), Mike Clattenberg (Director, Trailer Park Boys, etc), Shandi Mitchell (Director, tell Me, Baba's House, etc), Marc Almon (Director, Wake of Calumn McLeod, etc), and many others.
For nearly a quarter century, the LJMAS has encouraged and supported the best emerging media arts talent of the Atlantic region.
The Linda Joy Media Arts Society was established in memory of filmmaker Linda Joy Busby, who died in 1984 after struggling with cancer.
For further information please contact Will Roberts at the LJMAS office, 902.495.8220, info@lindajoy.com or visit our website LINDAJOY.COM
The Linda Joy Awards are made possible by our generous sponsors;
Presenting Partner CBC Television; PS Atlantic; Power Post; Nova Scotia Department of Tourism, Culture & Heritage; The Atlantic Studios Cooperative; The National Film Board of Canada; The Atlantic Filmmakers Cooperative; The New Brunswick Filmmakers Cooperative; Kodak Canada Inc.; Technicolor; The Newfoundland Independent Filmmakers Cooperative; 45 North; CTV; The Centre For Art Tapes; The Newfoundland Film Development Corporation; John W Doyle; Prime Insurance Agency Inc.; The Atlantic Film Festival; The Silver Wave Film Festival; R Forbes Delivery Enterprises.
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The Arts
FREDERICTON - CALLING ALL ARTISTS and ARTS ORGANIZATIONS….Art on the Move!
If you are a writer, painter, poet, dancer, musician, filmmaker, actor,
singer, performance artist, or have anything at all to do with the
arts….this is an opportunity to show your true colours! Promote yourself, your organization and the arts by participating in the Canada Day Parade.
Celebrating Fredericton as Canada’s Cultural Capital 2009, all artists have been specially invited by Fredericton Civic Pride to participate in the Canada Day Parade. This year’s parade theme is Colour Me Canadian: A Celebration of Creativity and Diversity.
This is a green parade so no motorized vehicles allowed! You can walk, ride or push your way along the parade route. Express your creativity….Fun and Funky is the only way to go!
We are meeting at the Fredericton UNB Art Centre, Memorial Hall on the UNB campus at 7pm on June 4 to brainstorm some ideas, sketch out the plan and discuss how we are going to represent!
If you can’t make it but want to get involved or you need more info please contact: Marie Maltais (UNB Art Centre) mem@unb.ca, or call 453-4623, Meredith Snider (Gallery Connexion)
connex@nbnet.nb.ca
, Lloyd Salomone,
lloyd_salomone@hotmail.com
, Karen Ruet (NBCCD Gallery)
karenruet@gmail.com
On July 1 ….let’s show Fredericton how to bring art to life!
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SAINT JOHN - FILM PIX: CHE - June 02 - tix on sale now!
Benicio Del Toro stars as Ernesto 'Che' Guevara in CHE, part 1
“Steven Soderbergh's cinematography and Juan Pedro de Gaspar's art direction create a superbly persuasive sense of mood, time and place…” Peter Bradshaw, The Guardian Newspaper (U.K.)
Film Pix, in association with BMO Nesbitt Burns, proudly presents for Greater Saint John residents, an exclusive, one-time screening of CHE, part 1, the lush and challenging narrative drama that won big at Cannes, and at Spain’s Goya Awards.
Ernest ‘Che’ Guevara remains an enigmatic figure. Exploding onto the world scene as a Marxist revolutionary alongside Fidel Castro, he was also a physician with artistic sensibilities; an author; a guerrilla fighter, and leader; and a humanist of epic proportion. In later years, following his assassination, his abbreviated name and image were unofficially adopted as potent symbols of human rights struggles, resonating with younger generations to this day. This film relates to his Cuban years, when he and Fidel Castro arrived on Cuba's shores from Mexico and convinced ordinary Cubans to join their ragtag band of guerrilla fighters, with the intent of toppling the government of then-dictator Fulgencio Batista. Within two years they were successful. A must-see film.
PRINCIPAL ACTORS > Benicio Del Toro (SIN CITY / 21 GRAMS / TRAFFIC / SNATCH), Catalina Sandino Moreno (LOVE IN THE TIME OF CHOLERA / MARIA FULL OF GRACE), Demián Bichir, Rodrigo Santoro and Franka Potente.
SETTING > Cuba, mid-1950s.
SCREENING > CHE part 1 screens on Tuesday, June 02, at 7 PM, at host venue Empire Studio 10 in SJ.
TICKETS > Reduced-price $9 tickets available at Thai Hut, Millidge Avenue, and King Street (Uptown) ONLY until 6:30 PM, June 01. Regular price $10 tickets, if still available, at the door starting at 6:30 PM on June 02.
for movie trailers and more!
2009/10 FILM SCHOLARSHIP NEWS >
thank you to everyone who applied for the Film Pix Scholarship for Aspiring Filmmakers. Stay tuned for future announcements.
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Fredericton - Film Screening – A Sense of Wonder
Celebrating Canadian Environment Week
Thursday, June 4, 7pm – Charlotte Street Arts Centre
Doors open at 6:30pm Admission: Free
As part of a 150+ city tour across North America, Green Matters is pleased to present “A Sense of Wonder", a documentary film about leading environmental pioneer and author of Silent Spring, Rachel Carson. “A Sense of Wonder” is an intimate and poignant reflection of Carson's life as she emerges as America's most successful advocate for the natural world. This 55-minute film will be preceded by "The Story of Stuff": a fast-paced, fact-filled look at the underside of our production and consumption patterns. "The Story of Stuff" exposes the connections between a huge number of environmental and social issues, and calls us together to create a more sustainable and just world. It'll teach you something, make you laugh, and it just may change the way you look at all the stuff in your life forever.
Taking place in the auditorium at the Charlotte Street Arts Centre, doors open at 6:30pm, screening begins at 7 o'clock. Members of the Conservation Council of New Brunswick will be on hand to share information about Environmental stewardship and conservation and about how you can be a member of the Council.
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FREDERICTON - SPECIAL SCREENING EVENT
As part of Disability Awareness week 2009, D-Day: The Story of the Canadian Assault Troops with audio description will be shown on Thursday June 4. This documentary produced by the War Amps of Canada tells the story of the Canadian D Day expedition. The documentary will be played at the University of New Brunswick, Harriet Irving library in the Milham Room starting at 7 P.M.
Audio description or as it is commonly known, descriptive video, was first introduced in 1988. Audio description enables a person who is blind or visually impaired to independently follow on screen visual elements. The narrative description takes advantage of natural pauses in dialogue providing sight impaired audiences with a full and richer enjoyment of main stream Hollywood movies or television shows.
The documentary has been provided by The Accessible channel http://www.tactv.ca and The War Amps of Canada http://www.waramps.ca Thanks also to the University of New Brunswick http://www.unb.ca for the use of their facilities.
For more information contact Lui Greco 474-0298 or e-mail at luigreco@nb.sympatico.ca
Information about this years disability awareness week activities can be found at http://www.gnb.ca/0048/DAW2009/
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Biz & Indie Film News
A & E - INTERVENTION
On Monday June 1, the episode of Intervention A&E (9:00 pm)
will be of special interest to all New Brunswickers as it was filmed in NB last November. Next week, the story behind the story.
http://www.aetv.com/intervention/index.jsp
Jim Lavoie
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ROUGHLY 180 LEAVING CBC
by: Sean Davidson,
http://www.playback.com
May 25, 2009
CBC will shed up to 180 employees from its English-language operations this week, fewer than originally expected, partly because of the network's early retirement program.
Richard Stursberg, EVP of English services, said in a memo to staff that some 100 employees have applied for the voluntary retirement program, which was offered in hope of sparing some staff from the ax. CBC said in March it planned to eliminate as many as 393 jobs. The network as a whole is facing an ad revenue shortfall of $171 million, some $85 million of which is on the English side's books.
Layoff notices will be delivered on Wednesday and Thursday.
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SPOTLIGHT ON SILVER WAVE O9 SPONSOR IATSE 849
Q & A with IATSE 849 Business Agent Gary Vermeir
Cat: What was the biggest highlight for you creatively and professionally in 2008/09?
Gary: This was a big year for me. After thirteen years as the Branch Representative of the ACTRA Maritimes office, I decided that it was time to move on to something new. So, when the opportunity arose to spend some time "on the other side of the table" at Halifax Film, I jumped at it. For six months, I worked as the HR Officer at Halifax Film Children's Studios, working with the great people who create their animated programs (like Bo on the Go ! and Animal Mechanicals). It was a tremendous learning experience and certainly provided some insight into what it takes to get a series up and running. Now, here I am at IATSE Local 849. Taking on the Business Agent position brings me back to the union work that has been my career, within the film community I grew up with - but in a completely different context. The position is at once comfortably familiar and excitingly new - the best of both worlds! And whoever said that "a change is as good as a rest" was absolutely right!
Cat: What positive attributes and strengths do you bring to your new job at IATSE 849?
Gary: Well, I know the industry here - the producers, the agencies, the suppliers and such - and have a long relationship with many of the IATSE members (reaching all the way back to 1979 and Paul Donovan's "South Pacific 1942"!) I bring a lot of enthusiasm for this industry - because I know first-hand what our region has to offer. We have incredible talent, a wealth of experience, a storytelling culture, brilliant locations of all types, a great work ethic, strong tax credits, a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, hospitality - the list goes on and on. Our film professionals are of world-class calibre and our indsutry has already contributed so much to our regional economy - and has the potential to deliver so much more. So, probably the biggest asset I bring is the determination to let the world know who we are and what we can do.
Cat: What do you think is the biggest challenge that the Atlantic film industry faces now in today's economy?
Gary: The industry has changed remarkably in the past few years. We used to see Canadian dramatic series in Atlantic Canada quite frequently. Now, they're rare. The medium-budget MOW's that were the bread-and-butter of the Nova Scotia industry are now fewer in number and much lower in budget. The big networks are seeing their audiences and advertising revenue running away to specialty channels and the internet. So, we need to shift our sights from TV movies to attracting series and features - particularly from international producers. But that takes infrastructure, such as sound stages. We must work hard to get investment dollars lined up to build these essentials. We need to keep up the pressure on the CRTC and the federal government so they don't kill the CBC and don't allow the private broadcasters to abdicate their responsibility under the Broadcast Act to provide Canadian stories and Canadian dramas. We have to keep reminding provincial and municipal politicians of the incredible potential for economic benefits our industry offers. So, there is no lack of challenges. The trick in meeting them is gathering all the Atlantic Canadian stakeholders together and working together as united voice. That's not always easy in the film industry!
Cat: Is training and mentorship a big priority for IATSE 849?
Gary: Yes. Another tremendous challenge for an organization like IATSE 849 is ensuring that there are enough skilled and trained specialists to crew sets when things are busy - and retain them when things are not. We have to be ready for upcoming productions and for upcoming changes in regulations and professional requirements. We have to be able to assist our members in growing within their crafts. So, we are looking at offering training across the region and partnering with government or other agencies in developing courses and programs.
Cat: Do you still plan on doing more acting?
Gary: Obviously a question from someone old enough to remember me as an actor! This job is pretty all-consuming, so I don't really see having the time to dabble in acting. In recent years, my artsy, creative outlet has been writing. My wife, Angela, and I have written scripts for several different children's series - which is something we really enjoy doing together.
Cat: When did you first know that you wanted to work in the film industry?
Gary: That would have been as a result of the afore-mentioned "South Pacific 1942". I was already addicted to stage acting when I heard that a film was holding auditions in Halifax (I was attending St. FX in Antigonish at the time.) So, I hitchhiked to Hali and read for a part. The next thing I knew, I had somehow finangled my way out of my Christmas exams to play the role of the radio operator on this film! I had a blast and met a lot of great people. Actually, that project was the launchpad for many careers. We should really have a 30th anniversary screening and retrospective...
Cat: What one piece of advice would you give to someone just starting out in the film industry?
Gary: Lots of hats. By which I mean - learn as many jobs as you can. It amazes me the number of people I know in the regional industry who are members of two, three, four unions - because they have learned to do several jobs. As a result, they are always working - as a grip on one project, an actor on the next and an AD on another. And, while you're at it, some business courses wouldn't hurt. This is an industry of entrepreneurship. Most crewmembers and performers are single-person small businesses. Knowing how to run those businesses, market their skills and handle their money is key to their success - particularly during these leaner times.
Cat: During your years working in film, was there anything that ever happened that made you question your career decision?
Absolutely. This is discussion that I have with my wife (who is a performer) and my contemporaries all the time as we grow older. The life of a freelancer is very hard - perhaps less so when one is young and unencumbered. But when the years have marched on and there are kids and a mortgage to look after, film and television becomes a scarier place to be. There is very little justice in this industry - by which I mean that hard work and skill is not always enough. Our members can't know from year to the next how much work is going to come into the region. The currency markets, labour unrest in the US, the continual jockeying of provincial government incentives - there are so many factors that can determine whether a production season is busy and lucrative or lean and hungry. This isn't the fault of the film crews - they're skilled and talented and ready to work their magic. Even when work does show up, our crew often have to fight to get their due. Someone who has put twenty years of excellent work into the industry will still find themselves being offered the bare minimum - simply because they're "local". It's heartbreaking to feel that you're always starting at square one. The same thing happens to local producers who work their butts off to develop a project, only to have it all fall apart at the last minute at the whim of a broadcast executive a thousand miles away. And it's very demoralizing when our own government demonstrates that they don't get it and are quite willing to let this vital and essential part of our national culture wither and die.
It is an industry of uncertainty - and yet, so many skilled, experienced and talented film professionals continue to make their lives here in Atlantic Canada... continue to face into the wind and fight the odds because they are committed to this part of the world, are dedicated to their craft and love making motion pictures. This is what gets me out of bed in the morning, knowing how incredibly fortunate we Atlantic Canadians are that these folks do what they do here in our home towns. If my work for IATSE Motion Picture Studio Production Technicians Local 849 can make their lives a little easier and a little more secure, we all are the richer for it.
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NB TALENT
By Jim Lavoie
Feature Film American Sunset shot in New Brunswick could spell the eventual elimination of "outsourcing" for the majority of cast/crew requirements for future productions
Sean Patterson has at least 15 years of film experience behind him to prepare for his first gig as First assistant Director (1st AD in movie parlance) for the recently completed Global Universal Inc. production American Sunset . The Saint John native played a major role in the overall process of guiding the shoot and aligning himself with Director Michael Masucci's vision for every scene. He also ensured that the set synchronicity reflected what the Director required, even demanded.
(photo by CNG Photography- Left to Right: American Sunset 1st AD Sean Patterson, Actor Corey Haim, Director Michael Masucci)
A 1st AD must be a master of all trades (if not in practice at least in theory) to obtain the maximum from any and all things required on set. An AD has to know when asking others to do things whether it is possible, practical, effective and safe. They have to be clear and concise and communicate effectively as their call on things results in movement on the production and everybody's work time and safety is in their hands. They must be decisive while under time and budget constraints as well. A film set is a constantly shifting arena on an hour to hour, even minute to minute time clock. A 1st AD has to carefully stroke an ego one moment and kick butt in the next.
"I love this business; the uncertainty of what's next aside, and I am cautiously optimistic about the future of the NB film industry" says Patterson. "I have had to travel out of province for a lot of work, but hell yes, if productions like this one appear on a regular basis in NB then its home sweet home time."
Sean also likes the influx of younger crew members coming on board and interacting with the experienced pros. "Like any occupation, there is a certain amount of attrition that can only be offset by younger workers" said Patterson. "I like to think that if you give me a young person, with skills, and he/she is a hard worker, then my experience and their enthusiasm will produce a well rounded worker. It feels even better or more gratifying when that person is a fellow New Brunswicker", says Patterson. "This province can and should be handling any productions that come our way!"
This sentiment is echoed by Moncton resident and production manager for American Sunset , Nicky Despres. Movie projects of this scope generally have bypassed New Brunswick because quite frankly, like our talented cast/crew, our beautiful filming locations have been ignored."
The decision to film in NB was made by American Sunset screenwriter/producer Jackie Giroux. Last year her company, Global Universal Inc. shot Blue Seduction, starring Billy Zane, in the Fredericton area. This past winter Jackie brought New York based Director Michael Masucci to NB on a location scouting trip. Despres says, "We looked at many locations before deciding on utilizing both the Moncton and Fredericton areas." This is Despres' first time as Production Manager on a feature. She has been a line producer/pm for 70 commercials and the duties she performed on them are similar to what she did on American Sunset but, on a smaller scale.
(photo by CNG Photography- American Sunset Production Manager Nicky Despres)
Despres is proud to be part of the New Brunswick crew that comprised almost 99% of the film personnel on set. "We had over 40 New Brunswickers on set full time and at least 50 as extras", she declared. "Many were experienced with a strong film background along with the new faces and some crew took on larger roles for the first time (Directors of Photography Marcel Gallant and Felice Grana, son of Moncton seasoned producer Sam Grana). "The crew/cast came from all over the province to work on this production", remarked Despres. "Some I knew from my casting job while others I met for the first time but all were equal to the task at hand."
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SAINT JOHN - ACTOR PROFILE: GERALD BAINBRIDGE
Gerald Bainbridge
Agency - Non-Union, Independent
Hair: salt and pepper
Height: 5'9
Weight: 225 lbs
Eyes: blue
Pant size: 50
Shirt: xl
Inseam: 30"
Shoe size: 9
Retired auto body mechanic. Enjoys movies and television, worked as an extra on "Leo Huff", crafts, auto and other model building, Nascar, computers
Email –
ethnicrainbows@aim.com
SAINT JOHN - ACTOR PROFILE: MRS. FRANCES BAINBRIDGE
Hair: blonde
Height: 5'7
Weight: 130lbs
Dress size: 10
Pant size: 10
Blouse size: medium
Shoe: 71/2
Maritime born, studied drama and music. Moved on to cosmetology, salon proprietor, Girl Guide leader, president Home and School, became cosmetology instructor. Hobbies are arts, crafts, sewing, knitting and clothing design. Owned tourism business on Grand Manan Island.
Now active in ministries of People for People One year with N.W.H. modeling, participated in two shows. Worked aiding independent extras in 'Sticks and Stones', 'Stuck', and Chris Cummings music video in Saint John, NB. Did extra work for Leo Huff, acting as a liaison as well as an extra. Customized clothing, one of a kind arts and crafts, jewelry sales, hair decorations. Enjoy entertainment field, gardening, interior design, woodworking, painting, knitting, crocheting. Have certificates for interviewing, setting up of displays in secret shopping. Received award for poetry. Volunteer services in community
Email
ethnicrainbows@aim.com
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Advertise
NOW PLAYING ON NEWS-CAST.COM MOVIES
http://events.news-cast.com/events/Movies
No Cost, No Commercial Interruptions
BROTHER FROM ANOTHER PLANET
An alien black man escaping slavery on his home planet crash lands in New York Harbor and has to contend with two 'Men In Black'. Directed by indy filmmaking icon John Sayles and starring Joe Morton, David Strathairn, and John Sayles himself.
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COALITION FOR RURAL NB SEEKS VOLUNTEER MEDIA RELATIONS PERSON
We are looking for a volunteer media relations/communications person to handle calls from the media. A quick learner who could get up to speed on the government garage issue and the Coalition's goals in general. The first big activity is for the TV cameras at the Legislature in Fredericton.
Not a lot of background is needed. We'll be issuing a press release to announce that the petitions are circulating in all 25 communities affected by the Government Garage cutbacks and that the drive is being spearheaded by the Coalition for Rural NB. And the Coalition is: etc. etc. etc. It will be our first province-wide exposure for the Coalition and we want it to appear professional and of course be focused on repeating the Coalitions main themes – while also announcing that we were responsible for the petition drive.
The mission of the coalition will be to advocate for rural NB – with advocate meaning ‘the pursuit of influencing outcomes – including public policy and resource-allocation decisions within political, economic and social systems and institutions – that directly affect people’s lives.’
The coalition seeks to address the need for a shared vision for rural NB. And to promote the idea that this vision should be developed by and for those living and working in rural communities.
Please contact: woods@nbnet.nb.ca
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CASTING CALL FOR SHORT FILM
Next Wednesday, June 3rd 2009 there will be a casting call for a short film titled "A Saturday Affair". There are roles for all ages so tell your friends, and come on out! This will be taking place between 8pm-10pm at the Charlotte Street Arts Centre (732 Charlotte Street), downstairs in the Film Co-op resource room.
There will be signs leading people to the room.
For more information please contact Corena Walby
mwalby@nb.sympatico.com
or at (506)449-1269.
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SAINT JOHN - CASTING CALL
There will be a casting call in Saint John N.B for Aboriginal,
Asian, Hispanic, East Indian and Caribbean artists from the west Indies end of this month. E-mail your inquires to
ethnicrainbows@aim.com
and check out the website at:
http://www.ethnicrainbownativecast.com
or contact June (506) 214-6401
Thank you for your time Good Luck to all.
Sarahlouise Of Ethnic Rainbow Native cast
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saint john - Blues and Gospel Festival
We are in need of minority artists in Blues and Gospel. Mature adults and aspiring artists welcome. Paid Positions: Contact June (506) 214-6401 Or E-Mail
ethnicrainbows@aim.com
http://www.ethnicrainbownativecast.com
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NBFC MEMBER LOOKING FOR ASSISTANCE
If anyone is interested in writing, acting in or working on a Sci Fi
action film over the summer please contact Fred at
fred@mediagiants.ca
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SCREENWRITERS LINKS AND RESOURCES GALORE!
Any Film Co-op member screenwriters can check out the online Film Co-op resource link at: http://www.nbfilmcoop.com/resource.htm
It's well worth the scrolling down you have to do to get to the screenwriter resources header and Cat updates and adds to the links each week.
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FESTIVAL PRESS KITS GALORE!
Any Film Co-op members now in distribution, who are looking for sample press kit info (written and graphics), email Cat at: info@nbfilmcoop.com
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SAINT JOHN - VOLUNTEER CAMERA CREW NEEDED
Looking for volunteer camera crew or personnel to do survey outdoors in Saint John and surrounding area. Credits to be awarded.
Please contact E.R.N.C. with your experience and your equipment
Sarahlouise Brown
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ethnicrainbows@aim.com
http://www.ethnicrainbownativecast.com