OPEN CHANNEL BLOG

MULTIPLATFORM WORKSHOP: Speakers confirmed

2010-11-11T11:26:00.000+11:00

Created specifically for screen content creators in film/TV production and digital agencies alike, the Multi-Platform Workshop will give producers the creative and business tools to tell a story and deliver it across multiple platforms. Held over three days (November 24-26) the workshop focuses on what creators can achieve now with available and evolving technologies and business models.

MULTIPLATFORM WORKSHOP SPEAKERS INCLUDE

Jarod Green, Producer, Beached Az
Jarod helped pioneer a new social-broadcast distribution model with ABC TV for the series Beached Az – a case study in successful online content creation – developing strategies for distribution across social networks, broadcast channels, mobile applications, online and retail. He is also a contributor and consultant to the NSW government on digital media, and is the social media ambassador for the Sydney Swans.

http://radicallove.com.au
www.abc.net.au/tv/beachedaz

Paul Callaghan, Freelance writer and independent game developer
Over the past 10 years, Paul has worked as a programmer, designer, writer, and teacher in the games industry in Australia and overseas. His credits include Men In Black 2 and Heroes of the Pacific. His cross-disciplinary experience has led him to an interest in linguistics, games as learning tools, meshing narrative with gameplay, character and story development, literacy and numeracy, and the philosophical underpinnings of how games work and what they can teach us about ourselves.

http://www.paulcallaghan.net
More speakers to be announced!

Register at www.openchannel.org.au/training/multiplatformworkshop.php

SYN Media Learning Week

2010-09-08T14:19:00.000+10:00

Our friends at SYN Media kicked off their Media Learning Week on Monday.

Media Learning Week is program of professional development events for media teachers, and teachers using media.

Tuesday's forum at the State Library introduced us to three leaders in the VCAL (Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning) media field, the most quotable of whom was Josie Atkinson from Kangan Institute

Josie is doing fine work with "scallywags" out in Broadmeadows, using radio as a tool for education, personal development, and cultural renewal.

Adam Whitbread from SKYS and Jon Staley from Youthworx presented their models for media training and showed some of the fruits of their programs - including work from one student, Chris Musgrave, whose work just tickles our fancy. You can see Chris's excellent mini doco 'My Glasses' here.

The Tumbler

2010-09-01T16:49:00.001+10:00

Open Channel Producer Marc Gracie's latest film 'The Tumbler' screened last night at Cinema Nova ahead of its theatrical release run which starts on September 2. A taut thriller with a distinct political edge, The Tumbler marks a change of pace for Marc, whose previous three films (The Craic, Take Away, You and Your Stupid Mate) are, in his own words, Dumb Ass comedies ;-)

The film was nothing short of fantastic and not only delivered great to watch characters but also a film which looked great and was shot beautifully. And it's not just us saying so. According to FilmInk Magazine, "It delivers an intriguing and swiftly paced narrative." Certain scenes were carried out so well that it has you sitting on the edge of your seat.

As an added bonus there was a Q&A with Marc Gracie and former Roadshow and Disney GM Alan Finney at the end of the screening, where they discussed the films short shooting schedule and how they managed to shoot the entire thing in 15 days on location in Broken Hill. The conversation also looked at the origins of the project, and in particular, the processes he and Screenwriter Chris Thompson employed in putting together the film.

We are all terribly proud of Marc and The Tumbler and encourage all our readers to look out for screening times at Cinema Nova and around the country.

www.thetumbler.com.au
cinemanova.com.au

As we march out of March

2010-03-25T16:03:00.000+11:00

After two successful screenings of Burma VJ, an artistic night with DJ Spooky and The Nauru Elegies and a fantastic showcase of Raw Nerve's best short films, Open Channel is having a great start to 2010!

There is no slowing down from here with nine courses due to start in April, Meet Your Next Cast & Crew recommencing next Tuesday and a number of other projects in the pipeline.

The Open Channel team are also working on a crew database for members so make sure you stay tuned for details!

On behalf of everybody at OC, may you have a safe and joyous Easter!

Presenting Burma VJ

2010-02-11T11:18:00.001+11:00

In partnership with Cinema Nova, Open Channel are proud to present a special screening of Burma VJ, the Oscar-nominated documentary comprised of extraordinary footage captured by young reporters in the midst of military rebellion in Burma three years ago.

The film offers a unique insight into high-risk journalism and dissidence in a police state, and - as the journalists become targets of the military - is a compelling reminder of the power of the camera. Burma VJ plays like a thriller, all the more scary because it is true.

BURMA VJ (Anders Ostergaard, 2009, 84mins)
Thursday February 18, 7.30pm
Cinema Nova
380 Lygon St - Carlton
Unclassified - Admission 18 years and over
$11, $8 (concession, Open Channel members)
Tickets: www.cinemanova.com/events.html#burm

This one-off screening also includes an exclusive Q&A faciliated by Melbourne-based video journalist Carmela Baranowska.

We hope to see you at what is set to be an amazing event- whether you are an aspiring documentary filmmaker or fascinated film buff (or both). Special thanks to Open Channel's Elise West for spearheading this event and helping bring Burma VJ to Melbourne for the first time!

FRAMED returns for 2010!

2010-01-28T12:36:00.000+11:00

Open Channel's free monthly lunchtime seminar FRAMED is back for another exciting year!

We are happy to announce that for our first session we will be joined by two talented young Film/TV makers who have achieved great success and are continuously producing content for online distribution.

Framed: Making Film and TV for the Internet with Nicholas Carlton (OzGirl) & Lucas Crandles (Black Button)

Thursday February 4, 12.30 - 2.00pm

Open Channel Theatrette

Victoria Harbour

Shed 4, North Wharf Road - Docklands

Admission - Free and includes light refreshments

To register your attendance please email framed@openchannel.org.au

Come along to meet Nicholas Carlton (online web series Oz Girl) and Lucas Crandles (short film Black Button and animated series Wentworth & Buxbury) who have made the internet the principal outlet for their material with stunning results. OzGirl was launched in Feb, 2009 using a social web model for distribution and generated 23 web-based episodes (or webisodes) drawing an audience of 20,000 per episode. Crandles is part of the creative team behind Dark Heart Productions, whose 7-minute short Black Button has generated 1.5 million hits on YouTube and garnered a YouTube Partnership - which allows Dark Heart to receive income from views of their content.

The filmmaking future is online. The online future is now. Be a part of it!

Welcome 2010!

2010-01-21T16:49:00.000+11:00

Open Channel hopes all of its members, associates and friends had a wonderful holiday season and have welcomed 2010 with open arms and lots of smiles!

There is a lot to look forward to this year with many projects in development, awesome events, well-loved courses on their way as well as some exciting new ones!

Keep in the loop through this blog and at our home and feel free to offer your comments, feedback and ideas through our social networks, facebook and twitter.

We want to hear from you! :)

OC & AT2 wrap for another year!

2009-12-01T10:38:00.000+11:00

Open Channel and AT2's final event of the year, Show Us Your Reel, was a wonderful success! Actors and filmmakers gathered last Wednesday to view selected show reels, discuss what it takes to make an impression in the industry and listen to valuable advice from experts in the field.

Some tips for producing a good show reel? Capture the viewer's attention from the very first second, only include footage that puts you in a favourable light and don't underestimate the impact sound and music can make to enhance your reel!

FRAMED #08: Charlie & Boots

2009-11-20T07:11:00.000+11:00

Find out how a Melbourne-based creative team pulled off the Australian box-office hit of the year!

Come along to this FREE seminar with Charlie & Boots director Dean Murphy and producers Shana Levine & David Redman.

Friday November 27, 12.30 - 2.00pm

Open Channel Theatrette
Shed 4, North Wharf Road, Victoria Harbour, Docklands
Admission Free, Bookings essential - framed@openchannel.org.au

Starring Paul Hogan and Shane Jacobson (Kenny), Charlie & Boots was a box office smash-hit amongst Australian films in a year which saw more than 30 Australian feature films released in cinemas. It achieved the second highest opening weekend and overall box office of any Australian film this year. It tells the story of Charlie McFarland (Hogan), a Victorian farmer in his late 60s who has suffered a devastating loss, and his estranged son "Boots" (Jacobson). In an attempt to cheer up his grieving father, Boots takes him on a long-promised fishing trip - 3,000 kilometres away at Cape York behind the wheel of an old Kingswood.

Show Us Your Reel!

2009-11-18T11:31:00.000+11:00

Open Channel and AT2 have joined forces yet again to spearhead some creative (and of course, constructive) mingling.

Independent filmmakers and actors have submitted their show reels which will be screened next week in front of industry professionals and the public. The idea is to gain valuable feedback and advice on what it takes to produce an impressive and effective show reel to help land jobs in the industry.

'Show Us Your Reel' is a free event that will take place from 6.30pm on Wednesday November 25 at Shed 4, North Wharf Road, Victoria Harbour, Docklands.

Bookings: rsvp@openchannel.org.au

Directing on Paper: The Art of the Storyboard

2009-11-13T05:39:00.000+11:00

The Storyboard Master class held last weekend (Sat. 7 & Sun. 8 November) by one of Hollywood's top concept artists David Russell was a great success!

A wonderful time was a had by all throughout this informative, practical and engaging workshop.

"Thank you very much for the lovely seminar. It was great, I see things differently now!"

"It was such a great course. DR has great resonance. Very inspiring."

"Absolutely loved the course… very inspirational in many ways. David is a true gentlemen, highly skilled and non-pretentious – I’m pretty sure there’s not too many people like him on that level in the industry =)"

Best of Love Your Work! 35 Years of Short Film

2009-11-11T11:00:00.000+11:00

LOVE YOUR WORK! - 2 nights of outstanding local short films on Thursday 19 and Friday 20 November at the newly constructed Open Channel Theatrette at Shed 4 - Docklands.

But this year there is a twist! To celebrate 35 years of Open Channel programmer Marc Gracie (who also dons the producer hat at Open Channel) has put together a unique program with the best shorts from 2009 alongside landmark Victorian shorts from the last 35 years, including early films from directors Matt Saville, (Noise), Richard Frankland (Stone Bros), Glendyn Ivin (Last Ride), 1980s comedy classic Bonza and Samuel Johnson's (TV's Rush, The Secret Life of Us) breakthrough performance in AFI Award winner "Sparky D Goes to Town".

Representing the best of 2009 is the comedy of Jehan Ratnatunga's "Ctrl + P" (Control-Plus-P) and Spike McKenzie's "Smooth", the gripping drama of Sally Pitts' "Light" and Tim Dean's "Fences", Tom Vogel's black comedy "One in a Million" and the experimental stylings of Justin Olstein's "Opening Day".

And the noughties also get a look in with 2004 TropFest finalist "Too Far", the moving family story of "Paul's Beautiful Laundrette", rising star Dustin Feneley's "Apprentice", the Sundance selected documentary "Lessons From the Night" and MIFF-selected experimental short "Side by Side".

DATES:
Thursday 19 & Friday 20 November

VENUE:
Open Channel Theatrette
Shed 4, North Wharf Road
Victoria Harbour - Docklands

TICKETS: $7 (Open Channel members) | $10 (full)
Both nights: $10 (OC members) | $16 (full)

View the full program and book your tickets at: http://openchannel.org.au/events_lyw.html

Need a producer? Find out how to get one, and keep them

2009-07-23T13:38:00.000+10:00

What do producers want from actors, directors, writers or crew?
How do you get noticed, and get work? And what should be expected from producers?

You’re invited to join on us Tuesday 28th July at 6.30pm to find out more about this most vital of relationships. Mathew Frank, Dean Bryant and Open Channel’s Marc Gracie will share with you their collective 35 years of experience in film, TV and theatre production.

Every month Open Channel and AT2 host an evening for Melbourne cast and crew to network.

This month, we’re adding some colour and delicious flavours to the night with the one and only Hernan Pelacio and his unique Argentinean BBQ. Hernan will cook your choice of Latin tastings such as chorizo, chicken, ribs to corn on his charcoal BBQ. Drinks are available at bar prices.

WHEN: 28 July, 6:30pm
WHERE: Open Channel, Shed 4, Docklands. Map and directions.

RSVP to rsvp@openchannel.org.au

MEET YOUR NEXT CAST & CREW

2009-04-15T11:58:00.000+10:00

The next OPEN CHANNEL / AT2 networking event, to be held on Tuesday 30th June
6:30pm – 8:30pm , provides the opportunity for 3 filmmakers or crew to exhibit their showreels to the audience, and to receive feedback from industry professionals about how to make your showreel bigger and better!

Tutor: Alkinos Tsilimidos

When: Tuesday 28 April, 6:30 - 8:30pm
Where: The Water Rat Hotel, 256 Moray Street (cnr Park & Moray Sts), South Melbourne
RSVP: rsvp@openchannel.org.au
Entry is free

------------------------------------------------------

__MEET YOUR NEXT CAST & CREW - URGENT CALL FOR SHOWREELS!

Also, we're still looking for people willing to share their showreels... if you're game, please send your expression of interest in the first instance to rsvp@openchannel.org.au

FRAMED 1 PHOTOS

2009-03-23T13:18:00.000+11:00

Wayne Hope & Robyn Butler, and facilitator Deb Verhoeven, mingle with attendees following the seminar.

Meet Your Next Cast & Crew - March 24

2009-03-19T10:32:00.000+11:00

Leading filmmakers to join us at our next Meet Your Next Cast & Crew event!

Victoria’s Screen Development Association OPEN CHANNEL and professional online Casting system AT2 invite actors, emerging filmmakers, content creators and crew to come together once a month to meet, pitch and get screen projects off the ground. The March event provides the opportunity for emerging filmmakers and actors to pitch their ideas and gain advice from industry professionals. Featuring special guests Kris Mrksa (Writer, Underbelly: Tale of Two Cities) and Alkinos Tsilimidos (Director, Tom White / EM 4 JAY).

Where: The Water Rat Hotel, 256 Moray Street (cnr Park & Moray Sts), South Melbourne
When: Tuesday 24 March, 6.30pm - 8.30pm
RSVP: rsvp@openchannel.org.au
Entry is free

KRIS MRKSA
Kris Mrksa is a Melbourne writer. He has written extensively for television, feature films, comedy and childrens’ television. Writer of the current Underbelly: Tale of Two Cities, AFI Award Nominee for his writing on The King, alongside other productions as Writer and Script Editor including Carla Carmetti PD, East West 101, The Secret Life of Us and Wilfred.

ALKINOS TSILIMIDOS
Alkinos has been described as one of Australia’s most important contemporary film directors. He has a reputation for being an actor’s director and is renowned for his uncompromising approach to stories of social relevance. He graduated from Swinburne School of Film and Television (now VCA) in 1988. His début feature film Everynight…Everynight (1994) won international critical acclaim. It was awarded Best First Film (Prix D’Montreal) at the Montreal World Film Festival and was in Official Selection at the Venice International Film Festival. His second feature Silent Partner (2001) was nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay at the AFI and Film Critics Awards and was in Official Selection at the Toronto, Montreal, Newport, US Arts Comedy, Athens, Singapore and Bangkok International Film Festivals. In 2004, Tom White was released to extensive critical acclaim. It received thirty-one Australian feature film award nominations, Colin Friels winning the FCCA and the IF AWARD for Best Actor. Tom White was invited to participate at many international events including Montreal, Hof, and Pusan International Film Festivals. Em 4 Jay (2006), his fourth feature, participated at Melbourne, Brisbane, Athens, Mostra De Valencia – Spain, Newport Beach – US, Titanic - Hungary and New Zealand International Film Festivals. Variety said: “Authenticity makes EM 4 JAY a Down Under low budget TRIUMPH.” Alkinos is currently completing his fifth feature, Rambles.

Photos from Meet Your Next Cast & Crew!

2009-02-25T11:38:00.000+11:00

The Meet Your Next Cast & Crew! event at the Water Rat Hotel last night was another great success for AT2 and OPEN CHANNEL as this event just keeps growing and growing, with lots of 'matchmaking' between actors and filmmakers goin' on! Check out the pics below...

Meet Your Next Cast & Crew!

2009-02-11T14:40:00.000+11:00

Come along to our first networking event for 2009! Mingle with filmmakers and actors, talk about your screen projects and make some new industry contacts.

AFI-nominated producer Melanie Brunt will talk about the production of her short film Dugong, and casting director Marnie Hill will talk about the casting process - and how you can help actors get the most out of the whole experience.

Presented by OPEN CHANNEL and online casting service AT2.

WHERE: The Water Rat Hotel, 256 Moray Street (cnr Park & Moray Sts), South Melbourne
WHEN: Tuesday 24 February, 6.30pm - 8.30pm
RSVP: rsvp@openchannel.org.au by Monday 23 February
Entry is free!

http://www.AT2.com.au
http://www.openchannel.org.au

Monthly Screen Networking Event!

2008-12-17T18:15:00.000+11:00

Actor/ Filmmaker Mark Constable, 2007 Tropfest Runner Up, with Tropfest rep Sarah Nathan

Mark and friends

OC's Dan Schultheis with an event attendee

Announcing a new Monthly Screen Networking Event!

Victoria’s Screen Development Association OPEN CHANNEL and professional online Casting system AT2 invite actors, emerging film-makers, content creators and crew to come together once a month to meet, pitch and get screen projects off the ground. The first Networking Event kicked off in November at the The Kent Hotel, North Carlton, and featured a Movie Extra Tropfest 2009 Information Night.

Mark Constable, runner up in last year's Tropfest competition with the film Uncle Jonny, spoke about his experience from an actor's point of view.

The next event - Meet Your Next Cast & Crew - took place in December at r.Bar, Port Melbourne.

Look out for the next Cast & Crew Networking Event coming up in February 2009!

http://www.AT2.com.au
http://www.openchannel.org.au
http://www.tropfest.com/au

'The Shaman' Wrap Up! by Mark Pearce

2008-11-11T19:52:00.000+11:00

A massive THANK YOU to the monomonomono team who helped to create our 48hr FANTASY FILM, “The Shaman”. You guys were amazing! I can’t tell you in words how grateful we are to have worked with every single one of you on this project. Everything about you guys was absolutely incredible. With insane time restrictions, your “on the spot” creativity and imaginative improvisation can’t be matched with anything we’ve seen so far. Your patience and professionalism was part of a heart-stopping collaborative effort! No matter how many crazy ideas we threw at you, somehow you trusted us, and for that we are very grateful and inspired by every team member.

Well, I’m sure you’re all wondering – Did we make it on time? How did it turn out? Does it make sense? Am I in it? Is it any good? When can I see it? Here is a rundown of events… BE WARNED, the following story is ramatic.

Firstly, let me just say that this film will be entered into many festivals around the world over the next couple of years. This particular version we’ve made will be screened at the 48hr film festival and be used as a pitching tool for the 12-15 minute version. With many edits made to get the film under 7 minutes, a lot of our dialogue scenes were unfortunately left on the cutting room floor. All actors must know that these scenes will be re-edited into the longer cut when we get some finishing finance. It would be a shame not to see your shining acting skills at work and we feel obligated to show everyone, (audience included) the best possible film that we can make out of all our material.

All that said, this 6 ½ minute version, believe it or not, is a coherent narrative. How is that so you might be wondering? With the exceptional skills of our Editors & Effects artists, who worked for hours on end, and our soundies, who waited for hours on end, the story came to life. It then took on a magical coherency as the writing team came up with the narration that was written in two hours after the picture lock-off at 12:30pm Sunday.

Narration was recorded and completed at 5:45 Sunday afternoon and Peter Haren, our calm and patient Sound Engineer, was forced to rush like mad and wave his magic wand for the next 45 minutes to complete the sound mix at exactly 6:30pm.

May I remind you that our deadline for delivery at BMW Edge, Federation Square was 7:30pm – a minute later and we would be disqualified to win 48hr festival awards, with the exception of the Audience Award.

You can imagine the stress and heart-thumping tension during those last hours, as we rushed to cut the final edit, write the narration, finish effects, lay down the music and sound design and master out to mini DV.

At 7:08pm, around ten crew members stood around watching the film as it was mastered to Mini DV tape. When the final credits rolled off the screen and the vision went to black, Victor unplugged the recording (camera) deck from the edit suite and handed it over to me (with tape still in camera). I rushed out of the warehouse at 7:15pm and into a waiting vehicle, driven by writer Louisa Dent, with Kate Perman, our PM in the back seat.

We had 15 minutes to get to Fed Square from St. Kilda - would we make it? With the tape safely ejected from the camera we all started to chant “The Shaman is with us!” Louisa was driving like a maniac down St Kilda Rd, nearly managing to collect a bus and probably a few speeding tickets.... Time check: It’s 7:26 by our car clock, but that’s not the clock that counts. The official 48hr film project time clock at BMW Edge is what really matters. We gained momentum and got through the last set of traffic lights (unscathed) and our destination was in sight. As we drove over the Yarra River bridge outside Flinders Street Station, my brain tells me (after not sleeping for 50 hours) to depart our moving vehicle. I sprint across the street with a truckload of paperwork and the film in hand! I then ran faster than I’ve ever run since “Little Athletics”, I gain a top speed of about 40kmph through Fed Square with people yelling at me: “Go! Go! Go! You’re gunna make it!” I arrived in the BMW Edge not even giving a slight peep at the big screen as I now have to manage to descend about 50 steps to get to the registration table. I hear a bunch of people clapping as my stride allows me to skip every second, sometimes third step to get down to the bottom.

I couldn’t bear to look at the clock so I ask one of the organizers “Have I made it?” I get a reply… “YES! It’s 7:28! That’s right, we made the 48hr cut off deadline by exactly 2 minutes! In fact, as far as I know, we were the last team to drop off at 7:28 Sunday night.

At the registration table, I collapse to my knees - like Cathy Freeman after the 400m Olympic final. Happiest moment of my filmmaking life… I want to cry for some sort of relief or release but there are forms and a master tape to hand over. I do it! I still want to cry, this time with joy, but my body aches further as I see filmmakers being pampered by masseurs. I sit down for the next 5 minutes and catch my breath. I then realise that I can’t sit here and get a massage whilst everyone is waiting to hear of my impending phone call. I decide to get out of there and ring my friend Victor Holder to share the celebratory news.

We partied for the next couple of hours back at the warehouse where a jam session led us to churn out a song called “48hrs”. Wow there’s some talent in this place I think to myself – 48hrs finished, and the artists are still improvising.

Monday 5:30pm. The phone rings… It’s one of the organizers. He says, “Please sit down Mark”. What does he mean, sit down? I am sitting, but since he’s now told me to sit, I find myself standing. “Your tape has no audio on it,” he says. “That’s impossible!” I say. “What do you mean no sound?” “No sound, I’m sorry Mark, I know it’s disappointing”. He told me that he had just spent half an hour at a coffee shop with another team leader who created a beautiful film, but that team sent the wrong file format and were disqualified as well. Was he implying that we too were disqualified, I ask myself? Then he asks, “Do you want us to send your film (without audio) to the judges and be judged on vision only, or accept disqualification and then have it screened with sound?”

I want, I want, I want the judges to see the tape with audio on it. We created a film in 48hrs, vision and audio. This is like some sort of TKO. We would like to check the tape I ask. Surely there’s a possibility their tape deck is faulty? Or is it a faulty tape?

However, I do still want to check the tape… just in case. So on Monday night I collect my Director, Victor and one of our DPs Luhsun Tan. We take the second copy of the film to the organiser’s office with one of our cameras to check the original tape. I’m handed the tape from the organiser… I play the tape out in our camera and… there’s no audio. Fuck!

The organisers try to help by spending all Monday night on the phone to the owners of 48HFP in Washington DC discussing the rules, regulations and legal issues about our film. We ascertain that whatever state the film was handed in at 7:28 is the film that will be judged.

No audio, no awards. EXCEPT… we are still eligible for the Audience Choice Award. I think of our team motto - "You can control what you give, but not what you're given". The meaning of this motto suddenly takes on another form. What is this movie we’ve created really about? The Shaman would tell me to relax and trust in the galaxy, but right now I’m on Planet Zog, feeling like bog. I say to myself, “We made a film, that’s what matters, that’s what this is all about.”

And then, the Sharman turns out to be right, as we realize the benefit of what has just happened. We can still win one award, AND, we still have our film shown on some amazing festival circuits, AND, because we were disqualified, we retain 100% copyright. This means we can now enter the film in whatever festival we like, and we can use it as a pitching tool to create a longer, M rated and more polished version.

The film is amazing for something created in this 48hr time-span. I've never been on a film shoot with so much "lovin'" in the air - people were really generous and caring and we all looked after each other through the "ordeal" - which is an accurate description. Most people functioned on only a few hours of sleep. I got a flat tyre on St Kilda Road Friday night, the Director had an epileptic fit on Saturday, after no sleep and a shoot in the hot sun on the beach. No doubt everyone had some trial, tribulation or inconvenience they had to go through to make this film!

May I leave you with this message from the Shaman…

“You live on a little rock in the galaxy… what are you afraid of?

monomonomono – one creative entity, many creative people

Regards,

Mark

Mark Pearce
Imagica Studio
www.imagicastudio.com.au
film video animation

2008-11-11T18:30:00.000+11:00

Shortcuts

Author: Paul Kalina
Date: 06/11/2008
Words: 340
Source: AGE

Publication: The Age
Section: Metro
Page: 20

Film short-changed

THE Screen Australia roadshow pulled into town yesterday, and it was soon evident the Victorian film-making community has serious problems with the new agency's proposed programs. The PowerPoint presentation was designed to invite feedback (which it got) on Screen Australia's funding strands, which include an enterprise program providing up to $500,000 per year for a three-year period to experienced producers (and consume about 40% of Screen Australia's development budget) and a production fund providing up to 75% of a feature film's budget.

Thirty programs that existed under three former agencies have been shoehorned into six in the new "mega" agency. But the discussion was sidetracked into criticisms of the eligibility criteria of the enterprise program, which defines a highly experienced writer or director as one with a credit on three released features.

The most heated discussion centred on the lack of funding for short dramas and opportunities for emerging talent. In a submission, (which can be read on Screen Australia's website) Richard Lowenstein argues the case for short films and "creative collaborations on all levels of experience", concluding that under the new guidelines he wouldn't have a career in film-making.

Producer Melanie Coombs, whose diverse slate includes Oscar-winning animation Harvie Krumpet, said creative teams should not have to go cap-in-hand with an executive producer to access Screen Australia funds. Not all agree, however. Producer Daniel Scharf said the scattergun approach of short film making isn't working and funding should be in the hands of producers, not government agencies.

However, the guidelines do provide funding of up to $80,000 for short animations. The perceived anomaly, explained former Film Commission head Chris Fitchett on behalf of the Screen Australia bureaucrats, is because the industry has had success in this area. The guidelines' shortcomings were brought into sharp relief when someone asked what responsibility Screen Australia had to develop the industry, a view reflected outside the meeting by an attendee who suggested the guidelines were an attempt to future-proof the industry by putting it under the control of select producers.

pkalina@theage.com.au

JASON VAN GENDEREN'S $57 AUSSIE FILM WINS NEW YORK TROPFEST, TWICE OVER!

2008-10-07T10:43:00.000+11:00

Using his Sydney Film Festival Telstra mobile phone prize, newly signed up ADG member Jason van Genderen made a 3 ½ minute film about Sydney and New York’s homeless that has not only created Tropfest history, it reduced celebrity judges to tears, and won two major awards.

Despite drizzling rain, New York film fans braved the weather to see eight films – from around the world – screen against the dramatic riverside backdrop of the Statue of Liberty. The judging panel included renowned producers, writers and actors such as Billy Crudup, Julliane Moore and our very own Rhada Mitchell and Nash Edgerton.

Australian film makers Jason van Genderen (Director), Shane Emmett (Producer) and John Roy (Composer) became the toast of the Big Apple last weekend with their short film, ‘Mankind is no Island’, a film which challenges our understanding of homeless communities.

Their prize win includes $US20,000 cash, return flights to New York plus an exclusive ‘first look’ picture deal with a major NY film production house. “If history is anything to go by, the opportunities after winning Tropfest go well beyond the festival itself – past winners have gained significant leverage into feature films and television series... we certainly don’t intend to waste this opportunity” said Shane Emmett.

The film, largely a visual narrative utilising found words from street signs of NY and Sydney, not only became the first ever ‘mobile phone’ movie to make it into the finals of Tropfest, it was also the first film to ever win both ‘People’s Choice’ and the coveted ‘Best Film’ awards.

"We are thrilled about the turnout and the crowd’s response to this year’s films", said Tropfest founder and director John Polson (Hide and Seek, Swimfan). "Jason’s film really exemplifies what Tropfest is all about – original, unforgettable storytelling."

Arriving back from New York today, the boys are looking forward to sewing the seeds of their recent success, with a controversial documentary about the world’s battle to save the Tasmanian Devil and a radical new thriller/feature film. The duo will this week team with three previous collaborators, Gavin Banks, Greg Hall and Brian Dyer to launch ‘The Treehive’, a brave new film production incubator developed to foster indie film and television projects.

“We never imagined winning both ‘People’s Choice’ and ‘Best Film’ awards... we were simply stunned at the reaction to our little film” commented Jason “We had audience members coming up to us afterwards actually thanking us for making such an emotive and heartfelt film, about part of our society very misunderstood... it was just extraordinary, quite moving really!”

The film is available for viewing online via YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/tropfest

FRAMED #08: Creating Children's Content - Resource Notes

2008-09-28T17:44:00.000+10:00

Australian Children’s Television Foundation
The Australian Children's Television Foundation (ACTF) is a national non-profit organisation, created to encourage development, production and dissemination of high quality television programs, films and other audiovisual media for children. Besides producing and distributing audiovisual media for children, the ACTF promotes children's media in policy discussions with all levels of government, and encourages community awareness of issues concerning children and the media.
http://www.actf.com.au

List of Australian Children’s Production Companies
http://www.afc.gov.au/downloads/pubs/kidscreen08_web.pdf

ACMA Report - Media and Communications in Australian Families 2007
http://www.acma.gov.au/
Home > About ACMA: Publications & research > Research > Media and Communications in Australian Families 2007

ARTICLE: Towards an Australian Digital Children's Television Channel?
http://snurb.info/node/590

TinyTown, a webisode for kids, is a good example of the way in which online is growing as an outlet for creative TV.
http://au.youtube.com/TinyTown

Writer Robert Greenberg's website -
http://www.childrenstelevision.net/html/home.html

Australian Directors on YouTube

2008-09-21T15:59:00.000+10:00

FOR YOUR VIEWING PLEASURE CHECK OUT AUSTRALIAN DIRECTORS ON YOU TUBE

To view go to:

http://www.youtube.com/user/AustralianDirectors

http://www.adgconference.com/default.html

FRAMED #08: Creating Children's Content

2008-09-18T19:21:00.000+10:00

Join us for our monthly FRAMED seminar, as we discuss creating children's content, on screen online and on TV! Tailoring entertainment and advertising to children is an enormous and growing industry, and we'll explore some very creative initiatives currently out there, including opportunities for new writers and filmmakers.

Speakers include Bernadette O'Mahony (Australian Children's Television Foundation), Chris Corbett (Tiny Town), Robert Greenberg (Round the Twist, Dogstar and Stormworld), Colin Budds (Saddle Club, Ocean Girl, H2O) and Colin Mowbray (Eugenie Sandler PI).

When: Thursday 25 September 2008, 12.30 - 2pm
Where: Digital Harbour Theatrette, 1010 Latrobe St, Docklands
RSVP: framed@openchannel.org.au
FREE

DVDs courtesy of Madman Entertainment to be won!

FRAMED 2008 IS GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY FILM VICTORIA

Speakers

Bernadette O’Mahony, Head of Development and Production, Australian Children's Television Foundation
Bernadette O’Mahony oversees the ACTF’s production activities. Bernadette has worked in the film and television industry since the 1980s on productions such as The Henderson Kids, The Flying Doctors, Spotswood, Blackfellas and Crackers. Bernadette was the ACTF’s line producer on the third series of Round the Twist and the first series of Crash Zone, and co-produced the second series of Crash Zone and Legacy of the Silver Shadow.

Colin Mowbray, Writer/ Director
Colin Mowbray made his first film at the age of ten and received First Prize in a national short film competition (Peter Jackson came third). Since then he has worked successfully as a television director, written two feature films and made numerous award-winning short films. He is an accomplished writer/director, with a strong visual style and a flair for black comedy and subtle performances. Wrote and directed Spazz, a short film starring Samuel Johnson and Noah Taylor (distributed by Universal and screened on Moviola, Sci-Fi Channel) and directed episodes of Eugenie Sandler P.I. (AFI Award Winner Best Childrens’ Drama) for Burberry Productions/ Artist Services.

Chris Corbett, Writer
Chris Corbett has written episodes of Stingers, Blue Heelers, The Secret Life of Us, McLeods Daughters, All Saints and City Homicide. He also worked as a script editor on Stingers and Blue Heelers and as Story Editor on Stingers. Prior to working in television he served as Dramaturg at the Melbourne Theatre Company, directed shows for the Five Dollar Theatre Company, the Melbourne Theatre Company and performed in major festivals across Australia, New Zealand and Europe with the group Strange Fruit. He teaches at RMIT’s Professional Screenwriting Course, and writes and produces the children's YouTube comedy show TinyTown.

Robert Greenberg, Writer
After completing a Bachelor of Arts Degree with a major in Literature, Robert wrote for Melbourne's leading daily newspaper, The Age while working on film crews stopping traffic during location shoots. Robert then wrote scripts for a number of Australian soaps including the Grundy serials Prisoner (aka Cell Block H) and Sons and Daughters as well as the Crawfords series The Flying Doctors. After script doctoring an innovative children's series called Lift Off, Robert discovered he loved writing for children. The then head of the Australian Children's Television Foundation (ACTF), Patricia Edgar offered Robert an in-house position. He became responsible for overseeing the writing of all ACTF series including Skytrackers, Round the Twist, The Genie From DownUnder, Crash Zone, Li'l Elvis Jones and the Truckstoppers and was supervising writer on the second series of Lift Off. During this time Robert was also on the steering committee for the embryonic Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology Professional Screenwriting Course. Robert continued his freelance writing career developing and writing the Jonathan M Shiff series Horace and Tina, the Southern Star animated series, Kangaroo Creek Gang and Tracey McBean, the December Films/Beyond puppet series Li'l Horrors, the Cox Knight live action series Worst Best Friends and the Southern Star/FIVE (UK) live action series Snobs, script producing Media World's 26 part animated series Dogstar as well as Blue Rocket's 26 part animated series Pixel Pinkie. Robert has strong skills in workshopping teams to develop concepts and storylines that translate into award-winning shows. Robert has also been Script Manager with the Victorian Government's film funding body Film Victoria and has assessed for every state funding body. Robert maintains a strong relationship with the ACTF and is an assessor for their Independent Script Development Program. Robert is a script consultant to the Australian Government's children's broadcasting regulatory body, the Australian Communications and Media Authority.

Colin Budds, Director
Colin Budds is an accomplished TV director, having worked on over 30 television productions including children's shows such as The Saddle Club, H2O, Wicked Science, Scoter: Secret Agent, Thunderstone (1999 Winner British Academy of Film & Television, Best Children’s) Ocean Girl (Series 3 & 4) (1998 Winner British Academy of Film & Television, Best Children’s), Jonathan M Shiff Productions; New Adventures of Flipper, Village Roadshow & Paxnet; The Man From Snowy River, Pro Films & Family Channel; Lift Off, Australian Children's Television Foundation; and Zoo Family (US Nickelodeon Award for Best Children’s Program; Runner up, US Emmy Awards for Best Children’s Program) Crawford Productions; to name a few.

Sunnyside of the Doc

2008-09-18T12:02:00.008+10:00

Each year, the Sunnyside of the Doc market happens in La Rochelle, France. Fifteen Australian filmmakers were were at the festival this year, most of whom were from Victoria.

Documentary Manager Steve Warne accompanied four fabulous Victorian filmmakers - Sharyn Prentice (Flaming Star Films); Liz Burke (Liz Burke Films); Andrew De Groot (Ghost Pictures); and Lynn-Maree Milburn (Ghost Pictures) - to the market, assisting them in pitching their projects to potential buyers.

The team gained some great insights into current trends in documentary making to bring back home with them.

The major trend at this year's event was the revival of interest in 'green' documentaries. Not only are there more on offer, but buyers were also actively seeking these documentaries. Steve and the Victorian documentary makers also learnt about several new channels that have been established to distribute exclusively green programs.

For more insight into the issues and trends discussed at Sunnyside of the Doc, follow this link to read Steve Warne's full report at

http://film.vic.gov.au/resources/documents/SUNNYSIDE_OF_THE_DOC_2008_REPORT.pdf

Portable Film Festival - Big Plans, Bigger Films

2008-09-18T12:02:00.007+10:00

You'll already know Portable Film Festival as providing an annual competition of high falutin' international film and video direct to your screens, ipods, psps, and mobile phones, but from September, Portable is going live Monday to Friday with all new daily content and curation! All of our festival flicks, from award winning shorts, features, music videos and cell phone capture will still be here for you to explore, but we'll also be delivering a film a day direct to your digital doorstep, curated from the most exciting new content from the most difficult to navigate corners of world film culture, as well as the trusty video vaults of the interweb. And what's more, you'll get to hear the stories, meet the people behind the films, and know more than just what you see. So kick-start your morning distractions by checking in with the Portable Film Festival, kicking off on in September with Oh Canada!, our daily focus on all things cinematically Canuck; a focus on Road Movies, and a few surprises in between…

http://www.portablefilmfestival.com

New Kids, New Scenes and New Ideas

2008-09-18T12:02:00.006+10:00

Film Victoria are collaborating with the Australian Children's Television Foundation (ACTF) and ABC Children's Television on a fabulous new initiative called Kids360° - a brand new style of kids' show to be developed by courageous Victorian producers.

The initiative is looking for bold, interactive, screen entertainment ideas. Producers are encouraged to create concepts in innovative formats that will engage the audience in ways similar to programs that are created for adults in prime time, but that aren't currently being produced in Australia for a young audience.

The initiative seeks a mix of interactive entertainment, studio audience participation, comedy, skits, music, games and challenges. Think Spicks and Specks, Thank God You're Here and Rove for 10-14 year olds.

For more detailed information about what should be considered in the program proposal and how to apply, please visit the funding section of the ACTF website at http://www.actf.com.au.

The 48Hr Film Project is coming to Melbourne!

2008-09-18T12:02:00.005+10:00

In a wild, sleepless weekend, you and a team will make a movie – write, shoot, edit and score it in 48 hours. The 48HFP is the largest time based film competition in the world. Over 80,000 filmmakers in 70 cities around the globe already took part! This year, Barnash Productions brings the opportunity to Melbourne’s Film Makers to show their talent in a truly international competition, win some cool prizes and represent Melbourne at the world competition in Washington!

On Friday, 24/10, you'll get a character, a prop, a line of dialogue and a genre, all to include in your movie. 48 hours later – on Sunday, 26/10, the movie must be complete. It will be screened at Federation Square’s BMW Edge on 1 & 2 November. The 12 “City Best” movies will be screened at ACMI on November 7.

You want to take part?
1. FORM A TEAM. Just put together a team and register online at http://www.48MELBOURNE.com.au and meet on Friday 24 October ready to go. There are only a limited number of slots, so apply soon...
OR
2. JOIN A TEAM. If you're interested in participating, but can't form a team, you can still definitely be involved! The Creative Market, the networking & information event, will take place at the ACMI function space on Friday 26 September at 7pm. You can meet team leaders and other filmmakers and join their teams.

If you can’t make it to the Creative Market but want to crew with other teams, please email your information to Barnash Productions at Barnash@48Melbourne.com.au or put your details on the online Film Crew database at http://www.48hourfilm.com/Melbourne - so team
leaders & other crew can find you!

With no age or budget limit, teams are welcome from high school students to industry professionals and have just 48 hours to make a film - this competition is a truly level playing field for all filmmakers. All films are guaranteed a screening! For the winning team this is a chance to attend a major festival competition, form international networks and have your film screened to a world-wide audience - the 2007 winner made it to the Top 20 World Best of 48 Hour Film Project and screened at the Cannes Film Festival!

http://www.48melbourne.com.au/index.html

Beyond Our Ken Screenings

2008-09-18T12:02:00.001+10:00

I'm the Director/Producer of Beyond Our Ken which is nominated for an AFI for Best Documentary this year.

In 2004 I came to OPEN CHANNEL for help in making a short documentary to get into the VCA graduation diploma in documentary making. I didn't have the first idea where to begin. OPEN CHANNEL showed me the ropes, held my hand and gave me confidence.

In the end I made a pretty good doco about a clairvoyant that got me into the VCA. After completing my course I started making a feature length doco about a 'cult' called Kenja. I did it with no funding whatsoever. I made it with the mates I met at the VCA, we just pooled our resources and got it done. I joined the group for 6 months to research them - It took two years to make.

It's now out on DVD at stores across Australia.

This is all pretty cool, but it started when I walked through the OPEN CHANNEL doors a little sheepishly 4 years ago. I'm extremely grateful to OPEN CHANNEL for helping me take the first steps - Melbourne is extremely lucky to have this open resource available to them. Many Melburnians take their first steps here, what's so exciting is that anyone can.

PLAYSPOTTING - OC MEMBER DISCOUNT

2008-09-18T12:02:00.000+10:00

A hot mix of 11 short plays (and a short film), brought to life by
Melbourne's finest actors and writers.

Where: Carlton Courthouse, 349 Drummond Street, Carlton
When: 24/09/2008 – 11/10/2008, Wed - Sat 8pm / Sat 1pm / Sun 6.30pm (No
matinee Sat 27/09)
Cost: $25 full / $20 Concession & OC Members (PLEASE PRESENT OPEN CHANNEL
MEMBERSHIP CARD)
Bookings Festival Tix 03 9660 9666 / http://www.melbournefringe.com.au/
or at the door

http://www.melbwriters.org.au

Victorian Screenwriters Group: The Big Print

2008-09-17T09:46:00.002+10:00

The Big Print is a screenwriter’s group which meets on the second
Wednesday of each month, in the evening, at RMIT in the city. We are a
fairly casual bunch but the way it works is that around 3 of us bring
along a short scene or synopsis, and we all read on the evening, and
discuss. All levels of experience welcome. If you would like to join the
emailing list for notification of time, date and venue, please email
Christine Rogers at christine.rogers@rmit.edu.au

A Filmmakers' Tale

2008-09-09T14:37:00.000+10:00

An update from OC Members and LYW 07 Award winners Lucas Crandles & Hayden Grubb with some interesting tips for filmmakers:

This is just a little update on things here at DarkHeartProductions. We have been working on animated comedy pilot for three years, in between our short films. It's called 'Wentworth & Buxbury'. We have just learned that the show has been made an Official Selection of the New York Television Festival, and as a result we'll be flying to New York this September!

You can see our entry listed under 'W' here:
http://www.nytvf.com/2008_ipc_selections.htm

And an article on this year's festival here:
http://www.broadcastingcable.com/article/CA6587087.html

A synopsis of our show:

Wentworth and Buxbury are two young, charismatic, but nonetheless unfathomably evil supervillains-in-training with a healthy mutual disdain for one another (and a healthy mutual love of crumpets). A bizarre blend of callous homicidal instinct and the utmost of civility. The pair are sworn arch-nemeses yet at the same time, though they are loath to admit it, they might just be friends too.

And a description of the festival:

There is no better way for independent television creators to get their work noticed by the industry. Winners in previous years have sold to major networks such as NBC Universal Television Studios and A&E. In 2005, the winner of the Audience Award and Best Reality Pilot, Off the Hook, was developed and aired as a series on the Versus network.

In addition, Pilot-makers continue to report that they are finding work and developing projects as a direct result of the connections and relationships they made at the New York Television Festival. Being screened at the NYTVF as an Official Selection has led to numerous writers and producers finding representation at major talent agencies, and annually it results in dozens of development meetings between artists and various production companies and networks. A partial list of the companies that have contacted our pilot-makers during or after the NYTVF includes: A&E, Bravo, CAA, Comedy Central, Discovery Channel, E! Networks, ESPN, FOX, FX, HBO, HDNET, ICM, Lionsgate, MTV, NBC, N.S. Bienstock, Paradigm, Showtime, Spike TV, TLC, TV Land, Warner Bros., William Morris, and VH1. The NYTVF is an unprecedented opportunity for aspiring artists looking to make inroads in the TV industry.

We found out about the NYTVF through a cartoon comedy we had heard of called 'Stuperheroes' that was an Official Selection last year. We then did our research and discovered that the NYTVF was one of the largest, if not the largest, television festival in the world so decided we would aim to have our pilot completed for it. Our pilot was made with absolutely no funding of any sort. The only money we ever spent was $200 on a recording studio, and we voiced the pilot ourselves (with the help of a couple of actor friends). We have also never met our animators. One is from Australia but in a different state to our own, one is from Arizona and one is from Canada. Our head animator is Canadian Nicklaus Liow, who is just 13 years old! We built the animating team by advertising our work on animator forums online. We worked through electronic communication, sending two minute clips of the audio we'd recorded at a time. We will be meeting our animators for the first time in New York!

As far as we're aware, there aren't any other significant television festivals out there (or at least ones designed specifically designed to launch independently produced television pilots).

We're launching a new-look website this week to reflect our entry into the television medium, so hopefully by the end of the week http://www.darkheartproductions.com will look a lot more professional and will detail information about the pilot, as well as a one-minute promotional trailer for it. Exciting times for us indeed!

Wrap Party - Final Day

2008-08-06T08:53:00.000+10:00

Image: Directing Actors students Jemma, Rubin, Marcella and James

After a full-on two weeks, we relax over drinks with Alkinos and the actors. We agree that the course has surpassed our expectations. Alkinos has just blown us away with his command of his craft, his 'director's' philosophy; his commitment to his students is such that he taps into each student's unique voice, empowering us to be directors in our own right, to find our own style and vision. The experience of working with Alkinos has been very liberating.

Student James Robertson:
"I couldn't be more delighted with the OPEN CHANNEL course 'Directing Actors'. Alkinos cut through the muddling haze surrounding the art and craft of directing with a philosophy of integrity and honesty.

"Through the two weeks of the workshop we got a clear, precise insight into the role and responsibility in a Director's hands. Without fuss, without gloss and without hype. This was truly a wonderful experience. One I doubt will be equaled. All thanks to Alkinos."

(I mean every word of it too. It was a fantastic course. Thanks to everyone at OPEN CHANNEL for getting it organised. I'm telling everyone that OC is THE destination for filmmakers! - JR)

Student Marcella Bidinost:
"You can talk all you like about the theories of directing, but to be given the space, the teaching and the actors who can help realise what works and what doesn’t in live situations is the best way to learn. Not everyone can spend years doing a degree course in filmmaking, and with several film courses already teaching all angles of the filmmaking process, it’s been a privilege to spend two weeks honing in on directing alone. Highly recommended!"

Actor Alyce Platt:
"It was an absolute honour to be one of the participating actors in the OPEN CHANNEL ‘Directing Actors for Screen' course with Alkinos. It was like an intensive emotional workout! Not only were the directing students put to the test, but the actors also were placed on the firing line and together we all took a massive leap into the abyss. I can’t recommend this highly enough for up and coming directors. It is an invaluable opportunity to work with professional actors and be guided by one of the best directors I’ve ever met."

Directing Actors for Screen - Day Eight

2008-08-05T15:36:00.000+10:00

Today we learned the importance of describing characters to the actors instead of merely plot.

The final day and the final script, Ruben directed two scenes from his script Sniperwolf. Acting in Ruben's scenes is Samuel as assassin Wolf, Sarah as damsel in distress Xatia and John as Operator.

Set in Uzbekistan, just as Wolf is about to shoot an enemy sniper, he finds out from the shifty Operator that the target is Wolf's partner. The information is a relief to Wolf, but things complicate when he looks up and hostage Xatia is holding the detonator to an explosive strapped to Wolf's vest.

An exciting, action packed day!

Directing Actors for Screen - Day Seven

2008-08-05T15:25:00.000+10:00

Today two scenes from Jemma's script Flesh Wounds was acted out by Sarah, Alyce and John.

The first scene was played by Alyce as Lisa and Sarah as her daughter Cailee. A large argument stemming from Lisa's suspicion of Cailee using drugs leads to Lisa driving Cailee away to meet up with older friend Tomo, a heroin addict.

Following is a scene with Tomo and Cailee in a park as they shoot up heroin and talk about knocking off a milk bar.

Alkinos emphasizes the importance of putting realistic elements into rehersals, such as music in a scene that requires it- making the scene feel more real to the actors.

Jemma said that directing the scenes has "given me confidence" and has "demystified the directing process."

Alyce Platt describes the value of the 'Alkinos' experience as an actor: "Being a part of this workshop with Alkinos has been like doing 'emotional gymnatics' ".

Directing Actors for Screen - Day Six

2008-08-05T15:12:00.000+10:00

Day Six, and participant James directs Samuel Johnson, Alyce Platt and John Brumpton
in his own script, Home Movie.

Samuel plays psychopath Ed whose marriage is on the rocks, who abducts Jack (John) and Mia (Alyce). When Ed attempts to kill Mia, Jack jumps at them in the nick of time, taking the bullet and saving Mia's life.

Alkinos emphasizes that it is important to work against the emotion in the scene. If a scene reads as if it should be acted with great emphasis, many times it will have greater impact if played in a less obvious emotional way.

(Below) After an emotionally exhausting day, the actors relax for some happy snaps!

Directing Actors for Screen - Day Five

2008-08-05T15:04:00.000+10:00

On Day Five, we began the process of rehearsal and direction practice, with each student having a whole day directing their own script with the support of Alkinos, and observed by other participants. Actors (Kym Krejus, Rob Alec and John Brumpton) rehearsed performed Walking to Avalon, written by acclaimed playwright and screenwriter Daniel Keene, and directed by student Marcella.

Kym Krejus plays a woman shunned from her family many years ago after falling pregnant with her son, Eddie (Rob Alec). Drunk in a pub at her father's wake, she takes her anger out on her brother (John Brumpton).

With the least amount of dialogue, the scene revolves around Eddie who finds himself caught between two polar opposite personalities. A highlight was the sense of real emotions achieved by the cast.

Directing Actors for Screen - Day Four

2008-07-25T15:54:00.000+10:00

Sarah Hallam and Brendan Cowell performing a tense scene.

Brendan Cowell is in da house!
Actor Brendan Cowell takes a break from Bell Shakespeare's Hamlet (he currently appears nightly in the title role at the Arts Centre Playhouse). Students were pleasantly surprised to say the least when Brendan dropped in on Thursday afternoon to perform their scripted scenes!

Actors John Brumpton and Georgia Bolton during a camera test.

Course participant James (writer of Two Twisted episode produced by Bryan Brown and starring Sam Neil) gives direction to Sarah Hallam and John Brumpton.

On Day Four, the four of us auditioned and cast a scene from our own film projects with the professional actors. The direction of the chosen scenes really start to take shape.

Actors included Sarah Hallam (Stingers), John Brumpton (Underbelly), Georgina Bolton (City Homicide), Ian Rose (Eastenders), and of course, Brendan Cowell (Noise).

Directing Actors for Screen - Day Three

2008-07-25T15:51:00.000+10:00

Day Three, and we begin to learn from professional actors including Sarah Hallam (Blue Heelers), Samuel Johnson (Rush, Secret Life of Us) and Ian Rose (Eastenders) about actor/director communication and how to facilitate the best possible performances. We heard from actors on their personal approaches to screen performance & acting styles, and the needs of the actor.

Image: Ian Rose and Sarah Hallam look at student script scenes.

Directing Actors blog - Day Three

2008-07-25T15:16:00.000+10:00

Day Three, and we begin to learn from professional actors including Sarah Hallam (Blue Heelers), Samuel Johnson (Rush) and Ian Rose (Eastenders) about actor/director communication and how to facilitate the best possible performances. We heard from actors on their personal approaches to screen performance & acting styles, and needs of the actor.

Directing Actors for Screen - Day Two

2008-07-25T15:02:00.000+10:00

Image: Participants Jemma and Rubidium in lively discussion on the rehearsal process.

Day Two, and we have begun to focus on how to prepare for rehearsals - reading through our scenes to identify the purpose of the scene & identify dramatic elements. Discussions on how to direct the initial read through, strategies to work with actors to achieve an authentic & convincing performance. We discussed research, character and story development, backstory, subtext, improv etc. learning how to create the right environment and how to run the rehearsals. Move blocking and final run-through stages prior to performance, and how to provide actors with feedback and adjust the performance. Learned how we know when the scene is ready, and when we have the shots we need. Learned what will tire an actor and what won't to keep the scene real.

Directing Actors for Screen - Day One

2008-07-25T14:40:00.000+10:00

Alkinos demonstrating that all-important 'aura' which a director must exude on set - a director must have confidence and be in total control, while working closely & collaboratively with his actors and crew.

Course facilitator acclaimed director Alkinos Tsilmidos (Tom White, Em 4 Jay) discusses the director's working methodologies behind the casting, rehearsal and directing processes. We talked about script & character analysis and interpretation, how to identify dramatic elements, create detailed directors notes (a vision), create character profiles which lead to the casting process, work with casting directors and casting agencies, meeting and auditioning actors and conducting screen tests.

Welcome

2008-07-02T13:02:00.000+10:00

This is the blog of Victoria's screen resource centre OPEN CHANNEL. This year, we are running courses in Screenwriting, Producing, Directing, TV Production and Documentary. For more information, visit us at www.openchannel.org.au