Meet Diana Galimzyanova, Filmmaker

Diana Galimzyanova is a writer and director based in Moscow, Russia. Her four award-winning short films were accepted to more than thirty five festivals in thirteen countries. She is just launching a crowdfunding campaign for her first feature-length film, which will be the first ever female-directed Russian film noir with reverse chronology. Learn more by visiting https://igg.me/at/RussianFilmNoir.

1. How did you become interested in filmmaking?

I've always been interested in writing. Ever since I was in first grade, I would write something, a short story, a play, or even a treatment to a novel. I also tend to think in pictures at least half of the time, but I don't have a real talent for literature; my stories are too schematic. Basically, I'm just writing treatments with tons of details and plot points, and that's why I love writing screenplays because they are like schemes. And I've been a huge movie buff from a young age. So eventually I realized that I want to be a filmmaker to tell the stories I see the way I see them.

2. Have you always liked film noir, and do you have any favorite noir classics?

I've been a fan of film noir for the last ten years or so; it's such an amazing style. My favorite film noir is Sweet Smell of Success, a pure masterpiece of art. I'd say it's one of my favorite movies of all time, not just favorite film noir. I'm also a huge Hitchcock fan, and Shadow of a Doubt is both my favorite Hitchcock film and the second favorite film noir.

3. What's your process like as a writer, and how was it different writing a feature-length film rather than a short?

I usually see the crucial scenes in my mind's eye in all the details then I need to put them into words. Like with The Lightest Darkness, I saw the beginning and the end in pictures, and then I filled the middle with words. I think it was essentially the same with all of my scripts; sometimes I also saw a couple of scenes in between. With The Lightest Darkness, I did a detailed outline for the first time; it was like an investigation and research. I really enjoyed the process, so also I outlined the short script I wrote after The Lightest Darkness. I think I'm going to outline everything from now on.

4. Would you tell us more about your debut feature film?

It's a twisted story about a neurotic private eye who struggles to finish the case. When he takes a train voyage, his own dark secrets begin to reveal themselves. I'm striving to make a real film noir, with all the themes and tropes, not just the chiaroscuro lighting and blinds. So like the best film noir, it's a bit of a thriller a bit of a mystery and a bit of a drama. I want it to feel like it was made in the 40s. Although the film is not set in the 40s, all the characters are dressed in the 40s style and use props from 40s. But they also Skype with each other. I see it as an alternate universe where things are a bit different, like in that show Gintama where aliens invaded 19th century Japan and brought the technologies with them, but there are also signs of 19th-century Japan in that world, like samurais with swords, etc.

5. What is your advice for other women who want to make films with protagonists that more closely represent their lives than the characterizations we see in the mainstream media?

You should fight for your work, even if its a fight with yourself, that voice the tells you maybe I should write my female protagonist as a more convenient character like we usually see in media because the viewer wouldn't get her otherwise. So you start putting on the metaphorical makeup to cover all the imperfections of your female character to make her look more socially acceptable and likable. But this attitude is damaging. Women are all different and diverse, and most of them are not represented in the mainstream media. Luckily this trend has started to change. Now we see more female protagonists that are three dimensional strong vulnerable though flawed empowered. I hope it's just a beginning of the new way.

Thanks, Diana!

Meet Troy Conrad, Filmmaker and Photographer

Troy Conrad is an award-winning filmmaker and the creator/co-producer of improvised stand-up show Set List: Stand-Up Without A Net. He has photographed comedy in seven countries, and his images for the upcoming Comedy Central series Roast Battle have additionally been published in Playboy.

Samples from the series can be found via the Instagram hashtag #hallseries and at humansofcomedy.com.

A photo posted by Troy Conrad (@troyconrads) on May 6, 2016 at 8:51am PDT

1. How did you come up with the idea for the Hall Series?

Last August at The Comedy Store in Hollywood, I took a picture with a fisheye lens of the all the headshots on the wall, and something about it looked very different... it felt like I was surrounded by these pictures on the wall. A couple weeks later, Brian Moses was walking through the hallway and I took his picture, and it looked really cool. Then I wanted to see what it looked like as a portrait. Joey Diaz was the first person I asked to stand in the hallway and pose. I loved how he looked. To me, it felt like the pictures of the comics surrounding him were giving him the nod, pushing him forward. I'm very honored that The Comedy Store liked these shots enough to make them a part of the club. Starting on May 10th, they will be on permanent display in the entrance to the Main Room.

2. What sets the photos in this series apart from other portraits?

The thing that gives these pictures a different feel is the imagery surrounding each comic in the shot. There are vintage headshots on the walls of legendary comics--some of those photos go back as far as 30 or 40 years. There is a feeling of reverence being in that hallway, and these portraits seem to capture that feeling of reverence as if the viewer is there.

3. How many photos have you taken for the Hall Series so far, and what are the plans for expanding on the series over time?

I’ve taken over 80 photos of Paid Regular performers at the Comedy Store, and the collection is growing all the time.

4. What other projects have you done involving filming and/or photographing comics and comedy?

I started as a filmmaker, and directed a film called Runyon: Just Above Sunset starring Eddie Pepitone which won awards at the two festivals it was submitted to. I created and co-produce the improvised stand-up show, Set List: Stand-Up Without A Net. With the show, Paul Provenza and I have traveled the world, and I've photographed the show as well as other shows in seven countries. I've also done a lot of photos of comics in New York and Los Angeles. When I saw Roast Battle at the Comedy Store, I was hooked from the beginning. I knew someone needed to be capturing stills for that show, which is unparalleled worldwide for its high level action. I'm there for that show every Tuesday night.

A photo posted by Troy Conrad (@troyconrads) on Apr 29, 2016 at 4:34pm PDT

5. What makes The Comedy Store a vital and interesting venue after 40+ years?

The Comedy Store is vital because of its integrity. There are three rooms that are bustling every night. It's run incredibly well right now. It's a place that is welcoming to comics, and very hard to get into as a Paid Regular performer. But everyone wants to be there. There is so much personality there that makes it interesting. Roast Battle is so unique. Ari Shaffir's "This is Not Happening" is still running there. Joe Rogan is there all the time. Chris Rock came in to practice for the Oscars. Dave Chappelle pops in, and Louis CK drops in. Last night John Bishop just came in from the UK and did his first show in the US in the Main Room. I love watching Joey Diaz. He's one of the real humans of comedy. He's so unfiltered and raw, and is pure joy to watch. He's raised the bar for so many comics there.

The Paid Regular Hall Series Exhibit debuts at The Comedy Store on Tuesday, May 10th 2016 from 8 p.m. until 10 p.m. and will be on permanent display thereafter. More info at www.thecomedystore.com

Thanks, Troy!

Meet Gregory L. Hines, Writer and Director of MOD-X

Gregory L. Hines is the writer and director of the forthcoming sci-fi short film, MOD-X. He has worked as an artist in such media as music, drama, writing, and photography. Upon receiving an honorary discharge from military service in 2012, he moved to Southern California, residing in between Los Angeles and Las Vegas. Learn more about MOD-X at www.mod-xmovie.com.

1. What gave you the idea for MOD-X?

In the summer of 2014, my friend and I wanted to film a movie together, and we ended up with an idea about a bounty hunter tracking down a criminal in a post-apocalyptic world. Unfortunately, our schedules never could match up to film together, but I ended up writing a script called X1978. Eventually I developed the script further, and it became known as MOD-X.

2. In shooting the film, what did you do (and where did you film) to create a post-apocalyptic setting? 

I have always been of the belief to use what is accessible to you to raise the production value of your film. In my case, I live in the Mojave Desert and wrote a script around the landscape. My "in-camera" approach to create a post-apocalyptic Earth was to capture the fantastic mountains and the vast voids of the land. Additionally, I found a junk yard that gave us the perfect setting for our end scene called "The Deadlands."

Taking these shots, I was able to hand them off to my Visual Effects (VFX) team who started a process of matte painting, manipulation, and enhancements, thus adding to the world of isolation and desolation.

3. Your film has taken 14 days of production and several months of post-production. Could you tell us a little more about what that process has been like?

Tiresome. The process of making a film can be a long and arduous process, and it takes teams of people to successfully complete a project. MOD-X had its fair share of hurdles from over eight rewrites and having to replace two members of the cast mid-way into filming. This put constant demands on the cast and crew such as constantly learning aspects of an ever-changing script to dealing with the extreme environment of the desert. However, as a team we did succeed in getting the shots we needed by staying positive, focused, and determined---a bit of humor also went a long way.

Once we got into post production, the stress of lugging tons of gear into the vast enclaves of high winds and dirt were finally over, but the overwhelming task of assembling the film into a cohesive story both visually and audibly had just begun. Because the sound was unusable, I had to completely reconstruct every sound in the film in a process called Foley and sound design. Additionally, all of the actors had to come and rerecord their lines in another process called ADR or Automatic Dialogue Replacement. As you can imagine, this took over two months to complete, but it gives the film a unique and dynamic feel. Currently, we are waiting for the VFX team and our composer to complete their work.

4. What are some things you've learned about ways to make a quality film on a micro budget?

Most beginning filmmakers worry about gear or what camera they should use. The number one aspect to ensuring a smooth and successful film is to plan, plan, and plan. In doing so, take your time and do not rush or you run the risk of it coming back to haunt you later in production. Another aspect which I noted earlier is to use what is accessible to you. Take a drive and scout your area and ask yourself, what stands out and what is unique? When asking people to help you, always show respect and gratitude for anyone's time. A poor attitude is a sure way to turn people off and lose help. Lastly, be excited about what you do. I found that my excitement and drive was infectious, which attracted the right types of people to MOD-X. People want to work on a film that has a great story and work with dedicated and professional people, and most of all, people want to have fun!

5. What's your advice to other independent artists who want to make films but don't have any funding?

Starting out with a simple script without unnecessary fight scenes, explosions, and VFX. Keeping the process simple will allow you to concentrate on the meat and potatoes of filmmaking. Additionally, resource with people through the filmmaking community in whatever way possible to meet fellow artists. Bargain with people in exchange for services to accomplish your project. One of my cast members worked for free on MOD-X, but in return I filmed a short film for him which allowed him to get his project off the ground. Lastly, be creative, know that it is okay to fail, and don't be afraid to ask for help--and most importantly, HAVE FUN!

Thanks, Greg!

Introducing Marko Stout, Multimedia Artist

Based in New York City, Marko Stout is a multimedia artist whose work addresses themes related to technology and urban society. He also has a medical degree. His work has been exhibited internationally, and you can get a good idea of his scope from checking out his website.

I have to say that Stout's website has a pretty clever video on the home page--as you watch the short movie, you get a "picture within a picture" effect as you watch someone scrolling through images of Stout's artwork on an iPad. This situated me within the modern/high-tech themes of his work right away and also made me realize that the artist has a lightness and sense of humor about his work. You can check it out for yourself below:

As I scrolled through Stout's site, I noticed that he used this multimedia "flipbook" style concept elsewhere on the site to showcase his work. Personally I think this is one of the best uses of YouTube videos I've seen: it's a straightforward way to showcase multimedia artwork, and the viewer avoids the hassle of clicking through a bunch of links or loading high-resolution images or other software/viewers. And if you want to see larger images of the work, you can just view the YouTube video in the full-screen setting.

It's not surprise that the site shows facility with video as Stout enjoys making short experimental films which challenging traditional notions of narrative structure. He does a lot of painting, too, using different formats to showcase his work (sometimes on canvas, sometimes on brick walls...!).

For more on Marko Stout, check out some of the articles about his work which appear on the press page on his site.

Meet Radhaa Nilia, Filmmaker

Radhaa is a multi media artist with a background in indie film making and producing. Radhaa is also an actress, a model, and an energy healer. Radhaa enjoys spending time with her two dogs while being creative in the Appalachian mountains of North Carolina, when she is not traveling to New York and Los Angeles for work. Radhaa has a deep love for animals and regularly rescues local dogs that are dumped in the forest, offering food, shelter, and energy work for them.

Radhaa leads a vegetarian lifestyle and practices yoga and meditation. Radhaa continues to write and create films that move, touch, and inspire through her production company Radhaa Nilia Productions. She has just released a film called Hope Cafe.

1. How did you get started in filmmaking?

I've always had an interest in filmmaking--acting, producing, and directing, too. I'm a multimedia artist by nature and it's my heart's passion to create.

I attended Southern Oregon University Producers Program and because of my desire to learn more, I found an internship at a production company at Sunset Gower studios. It was really cool going to the studio every day with my official pass, feeling like a part of a production company. I started out as a secretary and worked my way up to becoming a producer. There was nothing glamorous about it, though. I pretty much started doing everything under the umbrella of producing and I did it mostly as a solo, female, aspiring producer. I had to learn a lot of tough lessons!

I got to do it all, from casting, catering, and wardrobe styling, and I acted as a makeup artist and therapist on set; I had to learn to pull all the loose ends together with no additional budget at all and not much time to make it happen. It felt like wild makeshift producing, creating something out of thin air. I ended up completing four films that all got picked up for distribution. That was the reward.

I started to feel it was time to break free and create something on my own. My friend Vin Diesel was a really big inspiration for me at the time, and he encouraged me to work hard and get as much experience as I could.

I wanted to challenge myself and see if I could actually make a film on my own--even though I had no budget or backing when I started; I just had a dream, courage and endless drive to make it happen.

2. You have an impressive cast for a first-time filmmaker: how did this happen?

I have to say, it was amazing to have this caliber of talents and I would be happy to give you a rundown of our main actors.

Noel G, who plays Hector:

Noel G is such a talented actor and I really respect his work ethic. He has one hundred and eleven films and TV shows combined under his belt as of now including classics like Training Day, Fast & Furious, The Walking Dead, and The Dark Knight Rises. I am just so proud to have him as our main lead.

Noel is a full-time working actor and he gave his precious time and energy even though he was in the midst of multiple projects when I approached him. Noel made time to fly out to Ashland, Oregon for the scenes. I can't say enough good things about Noel. He is a great actor and so easy to work with. He may act like a gangster in films, but he is such a professional in real life. He also keeps the fun flowing and really made me laugh so much. I am really, really thankful I got to work with him.

Joseph Midyett, who plays Ray & the Homeless man:

Joseph Midyett at the time was working at the Shakespeare Festival Theatre in Ashland, Oregon. Playing two roles is not easy and he did above and beyond in both his roles in Hope Cafe. He even brought his own beard and props to play the homeless man, alongside Noel Gugliemi. That is one of my favorite scenes! In a turn of a hat, Joseph Midyett also plays the boss at the cafe and played the role of a creepy and sinister man. You can't recognize him at all; his whole energy, body language and facial expressions have shifted.

Any director would want him on their set because he makes it easy for other actors and is so emotionally intelligent with his combined instincts and intuition; he uses them all in his work. Joseph Midyett is one of the finest actors I have the pleasure of working with. His work makes me cry because it's just so good, and at the same time I celebrate what a true artist can really do. I know he has a big future and I look forward to working with him again.

F. Valentino Morales of Fast & Furious, who plays Marco:

I had known F. Valentino Morales for many years, through my friendship with Vin Diesel. He is a one-of-a-kind, genuine person. Valentino looks so big and strong and maybe even intimidating, but he is such a kindred soul, a very talented and a unique actor. We had been asking him for a very long time if he could play this role that we had wrote for him, but he had been so busy on location with Vin Diesel that we were not sure if he would be able to do it. But he kept his word and really came through for us. Before he became famous, Valentino had been through the process of making his own indie film with Vin, so he knows what it's like to be an indie filmmaker. He still had the passion and the heart for it, which a lot of people lose when they get to that level of success. I couldn't feel more blessed because he is so perfect for the role of Marco in Hope Cafe and I am so glad that he loves Hope Cafe as well. It was a big pat on the back from someone of his caliber. Be on the lookout for F. Valentino Morales as he is set to produce Fast & Furious 7!

Ayvee Baby, who plays Hayden:

Supporting actress Ayvee Baby is a beautiful woman with multi talents. She did a wonderful job playing the sassy Hayden. She helped me put together musical talents for Hope Cafe. She can sing, rap, and dance; it was fun!

We had some wild road trips together as we drove all the way to Oregon from LA and back a few times to shoot some scenes. We both laughed and definitely cried a few times throughout the making. I think it's safe to say we both learned a lot in the process and it is an experience we will always remember and can laugh about too. Besides acting, Ayvee is also a curvy model. You can find out more about her at: www.ayveebaby.me.

Asia's award-winning actor Raymond Bagatsing, who plays Pastor Miles:

Raymond Bagatsing is a celebrated actor in the Philippines and Asia. He is the equivalent of Brad Pitt in the Philippines' entertainment industry. His ability and range of creativity as an actor is mind-blowing! Raymond has received Asia's best actor award. I had the great opportunity to also work with him in other projects while he was in the USA. It is such an honor to work with someone as brilliant as he is. He can literally play any role and we are so proud to have him in Hope Cafe. He is now back in the Philippines on one of the hottest hit series. I can't get over how blessed we have been to have him play such an important role as Pastor Miles. It was not a role that anyone could just play. Raymond Bagatsing had the right spirit to play the role, as he is a very spiritual person, and that really comes through. He is a true inspiration with his craft. It's something to aspire to and I hope I get the opportunity to work with him again.

Multi-platinum producer Cool from Cool & Dre, who plays Diego:

Cool is a multi-platinum music producer, but he is just really down-to-earth and is very supportive of Hope Cafe. He took a chance on us and did his first cameo role. He was a good sport, and a fine actor. Though he is one of the industy's top music producers in working with Lil Wayne, Lady Gaga, Justin Timberlake, and Queen Latifah to name a few, he was once an indie artist just like us. Cool worked really hard to get to the top of the industry starting from his garage, so he respects a hard work ethic. He said one thing that I always remember: "It doesn't matter where you start as long as you keep going and never give up 'cause some way, some how you're gonna get there."

That is why he gave us a chance and came out to show his love and support for our project. I'm so grateful and happy that he could grace us with his presence in Hope Cafe.

Mindy Tiry, who plays Beatrice:

Beatrice was a very special character that we created, played by Mindy Tiry. She is a wise, loving, and non-judgemental character. It was hard to cast someone who embodied all these qualities, but Mindy Tiry brought her to life. I actually met Mindy in a memoir writing class many years ago in Oregon, and she happens to be one of the most interesting people I have ever met. I couldn't help but think of her when we were doing casting. This was her first acting role, but she is such a natural actress and it was so easy and comfortable to work with her.

Rapper Phil The Agony, who plays Noel's brother:

Phil The Agony is a music artist, rapper, and a great actor too. He is a big name in the underground hip hop world. He was also behind-the-scenes in creating parts of the music for Hope Cafe. He has a natural charm on screen and has an authenticity that shines through. One of my favorite scenes of his is with Pastor Miles (Raymond Bagatsing)--it's very heartfelt. For being a hardcore rapper, he shows his vulnerability as he ask Pastor Miles to pray for him and his brother. It's a real moment that touches the heart, and a reminder that no matter how tough or indifferent we may act on the outside, at the end of the day we all need love and compassion.

Finally, the role of Larissa is played by myself, Radhaa Nilia:

I auditioned many actresses to play this role, but casting someone to realize my vision of her did not match what I had in mind, so I ended up having to play her last minute. It was so fun acting Larissa! She is a feisty Latina and the complete opposite of Jade. She is not afraid to fight back and say what's on her mind. Many people have told me that Larissa stole their heart and the show and wished that she had more screen time. You never know; she may reappear again!

I want to tell you: it takes a lot of people to put a film project together on any level, and of course I want to give gratitude and a shout out to every single person that has given their support in the making of Hope Cafe. It's been a long journey, and you know who you are: many thanks to you!

I have to say, it an honor to have this caliber of diverse talents.

3. What is Hope Cafe about, what inspired you to make it, and how is diversity an important part of the film?

We live in a very diverse world and that diversity is growing more every day. Growing up, I never saw multi-ethnic role models in Hollywood whom I could identify with. That was a really big challenge for me growing up, and made me with feel really left out. I want to celebrate diversity. It's a beautiful thing to work with people of different backgrounds and ethnicities and that is something to be really proud of.

We started to create an outline for the film and a story of someone that seemed all too familiar kept coming up. I started to realize that this film is based on a real life story and was being manifested through the writing.

One main character stood out, and her name was Jade.

There was something about her: she was a young woman with many disappointments in her life and though she felt like giving up, she kept searching for that "something" that would keep her alive.

Jade is someone who had lost everything, including her faith, but still has that glimmer of hope inside her that keeps her going.

There was something therapeutic about bringing this character back to life. I found a sense of healing and completion in this process. The need to tell this woman's story was the driving force behind this film. She and her daughter have passed away in real life, but in the film I could create an ending that makes me happy. If you really want to know the story, then watch the film. That's as much as I can tell you!

4. I see you are also a model, and that you do energy work, too. How do you balance these pursuits with your film work, too?

Modeling is something that is lighthearted and fun for me in contrast to the hard and sometimes gut-wrenching work of indie filmmaking. When I get to model, I don't have to think much, and I just get to dress up and play.

I enjoy modeling: it is so nice for me to go on set and have my makeup done by a professional makeup artist, designer jewelry and clothes perfectly ready to go. I walk in and catering and hot coffee greets me in the morning. To have everything set up professionally for me makes the shoot a real treat, and I never ever take that for granted.

Doing healing energy work is a whole other level. It gives me a constant perspective, and it's very rewarding. It's one of the best gifts in my life, and keeps me balanced and sane. There is that part of me that is very nurturing and caring, and I get to express and share that in a healing session with someone who is also ready to receive that kind of energy. There is a time and place for everything. I love this work which adds depth and meaning in my life.

I don't mind having a life of contrast because I know as I continue to make more films it will get easier and I know more support will be available to help make this process flow with more grace and ease. I really put everything on the line to achieve my goals. I'm not frivolous; I really just reinvest my resources right back into my projects with Radhaa Nilia Productions. It's my baby and I look forward to the future when I can make a profit, but for now I continue to put my time, energy and money where my heart is, in filmmaking.

5. With the internet allowing you to sell copies of your film, are you centering your publicity efforts on getting the film screened at festivals, or reaching individuals who might buy a DVD copy of your film--or both of these?

We are doing both. We are so honored that Hope Cafe was officially selected at a few film festivals, such as the Golden Door International Film Festival, Oct 10-13th 2013, in New Jersey. Tickets are available at http://goldendoorfilmfestival.org.

Hope Cafe has also been invited to Indie Fest and has the honors of being the first film for the opening night in honor of Latin & Multi Ethnic Filmmakers October 24th-27th in Garden Grove California. Tickets at: http://www.indiefestusa.com.

We would love it if you would join us, but you don't have to wait to see Hope Cafe! You can buy a copy at www.radhaaniliaproductions.com.

Thank you so much for taking the time and supporting my dream as an indie female filmmaker!

Thanks, Radhaa!

Meet Adam Montierth, Film Producer and Director

Adam Montierth, along with his twin brother Donovan, formed a production company in 2004 and they have produced and directed films which were screened in over 40 film festivals across the country. They won over 20 awards for their films and screenplays, and several of the films have aired on TV. Donovan and Adam won a Rocky Mountain Emmy® Award for Reveille on October 6th, 2007. Adam has written, optioned and produced several screenplays.

Locker 13 is Adam and Donovan's first feature film, and they have started a Kickstarter campaign to raise funding to finish their post-production work.

Locker 13 is thriller anthology feature film, in the style of The Twilight Zone, revolving around a mysterious locker 13. The cast includes well-known actors from movies and TV: Ricky Schroder (Silver Spoons, Lonesome Dove, 24), Rick Hoffman (Suits), Jon Gries (Napoleon Dynamite), Tatyana Ali (Fresh Prince of Bel-Air), and many more.

Below is a preview of the film.

1. Could you tell us a bit about some of the stores that intersect around the mysterious locker 13 in your film?

Locker 13 is the story of Skip (Jason Spisak, The Vampire Diaries), a young ex-convict who takes a position as a night janitor at an old-west theme park. His supervisor Archie (Jon Gries, Napoleon Dynamite), teaches him the ropes, but more importantly attempts to convey critical philosophical messages through a series of four stories: a down and out boxer (Ricky Schroder, NYPD Blue, Silver Spoons, The Champ) is given the opportunity to become a real golden gloves killer; an assassin (Rick Hoffman, Suits, Battleship) kidnaps three people in order to find out who hired him for his latest hit; a new recruit (Bart Johnson, High School Musical) is initiated into a lodge of fez-wearing businessmen where hazing can take a malevolent turn; and a member of a suicide club (Jason Marsden, Boy Meets World, White Squall) introduces real fear into a man about to jump to his death. The four stories suddenly come into play when Skip is faced with a life-or-death decision of his own.

2. How did you secure such a great and eclectic cast?

Many of the actors that we approached told us virtually the same thing: they wanted to be a part of Locker 13 because of the writing. The stories are interesting with a few surprise twists and the characters are strong. Being an anthology also allowed us to break up the shooting schedule into three-day blocks. The actors were able to participate without having to say no to a larger project. We were very fortunate, as we only had a fraction of the budget that a Hollywood production has.

3. Why did you choose Kickstarter to help fund your post-production costs?

We've worked very hard to maintain a high level of quality for this project. We've had to pinch every penny and call in a lot of favors, but we're really proud of the film. We're at the tail end of Post and needed that last little boost to help us finish. We turned to Kickstarter, because we knew they had a solid reputation of helping artistic projects. We also really like the reward aspect and wanted to give back to those that help us.

4. What will backers of the Kickstarter campaign receive in exchange for their support?

The rewards range from digital copies of a stand-alone e-book, the full length feature script, and graphic novel; to a digital copy of Locker 13, real props from the film signed by the actors, and even a wedding in the chapel on the set of Gunsight Pass.

A lot of very cool rewards, but my favorite is the ULTIMATE BACKER PREMIERE - YOU AND 1 GUEST (in Fort McDowell, Arizona, airfare and lodging not provided): Visit the Wild West Town set built for the movie, Gunsight Pass, eat a chuckwagon dinner AND watch an ADVANCED SCREENING of Locker 13 in a replica of the Birdcage Theatre!

5. What's your goal in terms of timing for Locker 13's release, and will it be on the festival circuit?

We are looking to have a limited theatrical release beginning on December 13th 2013, but we haven't set anything in stone for distribution yet, as we are focusing on finishing Post. We are however, entertaining many different offers. We've always liked the festival circuit and would definitely consider going to many of the festivals. We will keep everyone posted on locker13.com. Please check it out.

Thanks, Adam!

Meet Curtis James Salt, Independent Filmmaker

Curtis James Salt is a independent filmmaker in Boston, MA. For samples of his work, check out his page on Vimeo. His credits include directing/producing the New England Film award winning documentary The Reality Behind Closed Doors. Most recently, his feature length script Adonis is currently in the top 100 scripts (for Drama) at the Filmmaker's International Screenwriting Awards. His newest endeavor is the fantasy Mosden that is currently in pre-production.

For information about the crowdfunding campaign to help support the production of Mosden, please see the IndieGogo site for the project. See also the Facebook page for Mosden.

1. What is the meaning of Mosden, the title of the short film you're working on?

The title "Mosden" actually refers to the name of the fictitious language that all the characters speak. Early on in the script, the main character Canvas (played by Matthew Eriksen) discovers a mysterious note left for him alongside a box of colored pencils and a mirror. The note's message reads "Mosden" and that's the first time you actually hear Canvas speak. So it seemed appropriate to name the language after that message. Some of the language is made up from scratch while the rest is a mixture of Latin, Russian, Arabic, Japanese, Cantonese, French, and more; all sliced up together so it feels somewhat universally familiar in nature, but also very organic. Currently I'm working with each actor on tailoring the vocabulary of the language and finding what sounds most natural for them to speak; then translating the words on the page from English to Mosden.

2. In exploring the experiences of a character named Canvas, how does your film work with the idea of creating art as a metaphor for creating other experiences/meaning in life?

[Laughs] Your question is incredibly close to being "on the nose." You follow Canvas from his inception, or what some of us refer to as his "birth." He has to teach himself how to walk and talk. Eventually he acquires the box of colored pencils and learns whatever he draws on the walls becomes real. This is where the audience can start to dissect the metaphors hidden within the story if they choose. For example, the first character Canvas creates is RED (Olivia Moriarty) who he has to then teach everything he had to teach himself. Red in return falls in love with him. The next character created is GREEN (Harry Aspinwall), who is very bitter and envious of their relationship. It quickly becomes apparent that the art/characters Canvas creates represent either an aspect of the human psyche or characteristic of how we perceive things. Eventually he creates his opposite, BLACK (Cezar Constantine) who is the literal definition of malice; who in return creates his own art/characters that conflict with Canvas until the climax of the story. The ensemble of this cast remain very "one note" and true to their color(s), whereas Canvas becomes fleshed out and whole, learning from each of them. In the end I hope my intended message becomes very clear; nothing in life is ever just black and white. (I also promise this movie doesn't end as a dream or an acid trip!)

3. What would you say distinguishes experimental fantasy film from the more narrative filmmaking that viewers may be used to seeing?

Knowing that you're creating a project with a macro budget practically forces you to be experimental in order to achieve your ultimate vision. This can hinder a lot of filmmakers and tends to make them play it "safe," which I feel nine out of ten times results in an end product that's all too familiar to today's audiences. I think embracing the notion that you have to get creative allows you to start to think outside the realm of more conventional storytelling.

With Mosden, I gave myself the challenge of trying to create a short film that appeals to a worldwide audience. So I watched a lot of movies that I love and inspire me (The Cell, The Fifth Element, Moulin Rouge) and examined what made them so appealing. Hopefully, if I did my homework correctly, you're going to get something extraordinarily unique. It's much simpler to summarize Mosden as an experimental fantasy, then to also add it's a comedy, musical, drama, fairytale, and did we mention that it's very abstract? [Laughs] Once again, I swear it's not an acid trip.

4. What are some of your personal goals as a filmmaker?

Never to compromise. Always collaborate. Remember that you might not always be right and to listen to your actors and crew. It might sound ambitious of me to say, but I always want to work on a project that I'm passionate about, opposed to doing it just as a job. I would love to get discovered (as I think most do) and be able to make movies that can appeal to a much broader audience and someday hopefully work with the people that inspire me. Regardless if a movie I work on is seen by 10 people or 10 million, I always want to provide an experience that makes people forget that they're watching a movie. Any filmmaker that is able to achieve that is a true master at their craft. Thirty years from now I hope someone can tell me that I inspired them. My all time favorite quote (from Moulin Rouge) represents my love and approach to filmmaking the best, "Why live life from dream to dream and dread the day when dreaming ends?"

5. In addition to contributing to crowdfunding campaigns, how can viewers help support independent filmmaking--and why is it important that they do so?

I think filmmakers today are both blessed and cursed by influence of social media. Crowdfunding didn't exist when I was a kid, unless you went door to door. Thanks to sites like YouTube, Vimeo, Facebook, and more, your voice can either be heard or lost amongst the sea. I compare crowdfunding to playing the lottery. People gamble on playing the odds, and you just hope that they're in your favor. When a person is lucky enough to "win" because of people who believe in them, people get discovered! Amazing stories get told! Original pieces of art get created! A majority of the movies, directors, writers, actors you see and love, would not exist today if it wasn't for independent filmmaking and the support for it.

Thanks, Curtis!

Meet Lester Sumrall, Filmmaker and Minister

Lester Sumrall is a third generation minister and visionary. For almost 20 years, he has shared a message of destiny, purpose, and hope in 38 countries of the world. In the early 1990s, Lester gave up a college basketball scholarship, a journey which took him to Scandinavia where he attended Word of Life Theological School in Uppsala, Sweden. Upon graduation, Lester travelled alongside his grandfather, Dr. Lester Sumrall, doing ministry and relief work around the world. In 1997, he founded Lester Sumrall International, and has since continued in the legacy passed to him to serve humanity through relief work and hope-filled media projects. Lester Sumrall is currently based near Chicago where he lives with his wife and children.

Lester is currently working to finish Fearless Faith, a film about his grandfather. Having traveled all over the world with his grandfather and again after his grandfather's death, Lester has gathered all the necessary footage to create a film which gives a comprehensive perspective on his grandfather's work and the many people his grandfather inspired. In order to complete the film, Lester needs to raise funds to pay for professional editing and marketing and has set up a campaign on Indiegogo with a $25,000 goal (which amounts to one-fourth of the funding needed for this last phase of film production.

As February 2013 marks the 100th birthday of the late Dr. Sumrall, the theme of the fundraising campaign for Fearless Faith is Give 100,: 100 minutes of prayer and/or 100 pennies, nickels, dimes, quarters, dollars or more. Learn more on the Facebook page for Fearless Faith.

1. For those readers who might not recognize the name, Dr. Lester Sumrall, could you tell us briefly who your grandfather was?

My grandfather was a family man; being his namesake, we shared a very close relationship. He was a sincere man of faith. As a young man he was supernaturally healed of tuberculosis by faith in Jesus. This divine experience led to him becoming a true believer. He traveled the world on the verge of WWII. He also dabbled in journalism as he reported on his travels, basically an antique blog. Later in life he was a local pastor to some, and he pioneered in media by founding a broadcasting network that at one time was the 10th largest shortwave radio network in the world, eight full power television stations, and two local fm stations. Near the end of his life, he founded a global feeding network that shared relief and hope with hundreds of thousands of people. All in all I was really inspired by his faith-filled mission and obedience to his higher calling.

2. How many years have you spent and how many countries have you visited shooting footage of your grandfather and people around the world who have been influenced by his work?

I worked with my grandfather 17 years ago on the idea for this project, but almost three years ago in 2010 I started the Fearless Faith Project. Since then I've visited Asia multiple times to retrace his steps in the Philippines and Hong Kong. I also retraced his steps in Israel. Footage from interviews in China, Russia, and Sweden will also be included in the project.

3. On the 100th anniversary of your late grandfather's birth, why do you feel it's especially important now to share his legacy with others through the medium of film?

My grandfather's life and legacy of faith is important to me for a variety of reasons. Why share his story? Because I believe that others will find it inspiring on their life journey. My desire is to inspire many to find and fulfill their God-given purpose.

4. How much time and funding do you anticipate it will take to complete the editing of Fearless Faith--and then to market the film?

We anticipate it will take about six months and $100,000 to finish editing and start the distribution of this film. We have requests to bring it to Sweden, Russia, China, Brazil, Canada, and all over America.

5. It seems like crowdsourcing is a good fit for your project, given your grandfather's connections with so many people. In addition to visiting your Indiegogo site, how do you hope that people will help you in finishing this film and in continuing your grandfather's work in the world?

Yes, crowdfunding is a great fit for this project. If everyone does something, it helps. Crowdfunding is a great alternative for us because my grandfather had ministered in 119 countries and had authored many books over the years, so he became well-known in certain circles. We are hoping to finish this project by everyone who appreciated his life and ministry to give 100 whatever (pennies, dollars, etc) to celebrate his 100th and to share the campaign with 100 friends. Through this project I believe that we can share a life story that will inspire people all around the world.

Thanks, Lester!