How Youtube Will Help Me Become a Better Filmmaker.

I certainly don't have all the answers, hell, like many, I stumble through most projects with a "learn as I go attitude". Its been about 6 months that I've been toying around on youtube. Ive made vlogs, fake commercials, some odd horror quick shorts plus plenty of comedy. If anything, I've become more focused on sound design, using music properly, learning the basics of editing and becoming smarter when writing.

Every advancement I've made was because I did not want to wait around for someone else. I have never been someone who "needs" someone, or like to feel like I do. Your at their mercy, if you do. Often they are less motivated and/or busy. I've had great collaborations and not so great. You have to look at the learning experience. "No one will care about your project more than you", I was taught this years ago and its the truth. This isn't a slight on anyone, just hoping that someone reads this who is waiting for someone else, and decides, enough is enough and I'm gonna learn on my own.

It's been a long few years for me and this "filmmaking" adventure. I've had some success and some failures. It's a tough pill to swallow when you're convinced you are doing something great and it gets 0 response. I don't have an ego about filmmaking, but when you create an idea, it can bruise your "creative ego" when its never blossoms and dies a tragic death.

Let's look at Youtube. Now my growth has been slow and steady, since I have started. The best part about Youtube is I can always be creative. I have started the Acting with Andy web series, plus I did a ton of Dimension Chat's and most recently I started the Count Clowny series. The last two weeks have shed a serious light on my aspirations. I've learned more about myself and what I want from this process. Let's take a quick look at what I have learned about "the audience" and how this can help:

I've learned this one very important fact - Creating content for youtube or online is very different than creating a film. Why? The audience is not vested and will turn off instantly as soon as they are bored. When you purchase a film, the tendency to give the movie time to develop and breath is much longer than in a "click through" environment like Youtube.

The benefit of studying the "numbers" like audience retention, demographics and instant/honest feedback will tell how well you're doing. I can see what platforms people are watching on (tablet, gaming console, desktop and phone), where they are located, male or females and when they click off the content. In "Youtube Land" you're doing a great job if you're holding 50% audience retention. To me, THIS the the most important factor when I look at the past week's video performance.

What does this mean when making something other than typical youtube fodder? People want you to get to the point quickly and keep that point. It's harder to slowly tell a story unless the viewers are really fans of your content, even then, sometimes you can lose some. Luckily, I have a solid group that believe and love what I'm doing. I'm so thankful for those who tune in weekly.

I believe, Youtube has helped me and continues to help me develop my skills. I've learned more about cinematography because I need to make do with very little. I've learned lighting and camera tricks. I've learned how to write stronger (at least I think) and I've learned to be a better editor. Granted, I'm still very early in this and learning all the time. I watch tons of tutorials and I'm never afraid to research or ask others.

Count Clowny has taken a more prominent role for me. The second episode will begun to roll out a stronger tone in there direction that the story is heading. Each episode has a budget, usually less than $300, although some will soon become higher. Kim and I are funding this because its a story we want to tell. I'm hoping that with each episode, my abilities will continue to grow and you are along for the ride.

If you have not subscribed, check us out http://www.Youtube.com/RobDimension 

Crowdfunding 101 - Let's Start Here

Crowdfunding is lost. Why? Let me answer.

First, if you aren't aware of what crowdfunding is; it's simply when a filmmaker (I know there are a lot of other reasons to crowd fund but let's stick with filmmaking) turns to the internet site Kickstarter, as an example, creates a campaign, a pitch video, posts what the project is about. Then, fans, the crowd, people who become interested, donate to the project to help make this dream a reality.


So far, so good.


Now, I will lay the blame on the filmmakers. Some do it right. Those are the ones who achieve their goals and actually do better than they hoped. The ones who look to blame everyone and everything except themselves are the problem.

PLAN, PLAN, PLAN - keyword in planning is plan. This is simple. Do your homework and research what you're making, what crowdfunding platform would work best. Look at costs and finances. Have a back up plan in case your goal is not met. Know what you're making...do you need insurance, permits, new equipment? What needs to be paid for. Look into everything. Make a check list. How much will it cost to crowd fund? To make and deliver your perks? Look at everything. (I won't touch on pitch video or perks today, but stay tuned for a future video or blog)


Stop creating multiple crowdfunding campaigns asking for help 3-4 times to get one project done. You're already asking people to take a chance, now you're looking terrible and potentially ruining the experience for them, and the next project they might invest in. You could start a chain reaction that damages others dreams. Be responsible.


You are a filmmaker, in essence starting a business. You need to budget yourself and your project. If you can't do this, don't crowd fund. Do not ask for anything that is beyond your means. Stop asking for unrealistic numbers. Don't have a following? Then the chances of you succeeding is small. Maybe crowd fund for a small project, make and complete that and build faith in your current customers and potentially build a larger audience.

Stop and PLAN

Here is the blunt fact - stop being lazy, stop blaming others, start researching and show others why they should invest in your project.


Look at your project as an outsider and be honest: would you donate? Do you care if this gets made? Does the pitch trailer look like a professionals work?


Before I launched my campaigns, each of my 3 projects I used crowdfunding (all successfully reached their goal, the last reached the goal 36 hours after launch) I was studying pitch videos, reading books, googling for help online. I asked others and paid attention and stopped using excuses like "Well, Rob Zombie was crowdfunding and thats where the money went!" Stop fooling yourself. His fans aren't investing in yours. "But Rob, you don't understand"...actually I do...that's why I'm being honest. I treated my investors like partners and shared things along the way and tried to show them bits and pieces along the way. I delivered on all 3 projects. I worked hard, lost some money but didn't let that stop me. I made mistakes but I would NOT let people down.


That's it for today. Crowdfunding works. It's not begging unless you make it begging. The people investing are proving they believe in you. Have integrity and don't let them down. Prove you're a professional and make something great. You can take this advice and make the best project possible or ignore help and realize you made a mistake, costing you much more than a bruised ego. Look around, plenty of advice/help out there. Best of luck.


Until next time, want to see my films? Visit www.youtube.com/RobDimension and watch for free.

30 second comedy short "Surge."

I was sitting at home, alone and decided to make something. It's quick, probably a little weird, but hope you enjoy. 

New Podcast for 2015!

New Podcast for 2015!

Started in 2011

I started podcasting on my own network in early 2011...whew...seems like forever ago. I started as a Horror-ible podcast, went to the XOC with Steve Corino and the recent bunch of shows with Matt Barnes on the Shock and Wrestling. 

I like to think I was ahead of the curve when it comes to podcasting. We started with a cheap microphone being held up by a cup...(legit) and I moved forward to increase production through trial and error. I love looking back at the evolution. 

That being said, I, myself am always evolving. I tend to lean towards comedy and talking about passion. Over time my passion changes, my happiness changed. Right now, I'm as happy as I've ever been. I have worked hard to make films, be creative and keep working towards the future. 

Where does this leave us now? On Dec 31st, I realized I am once again evolving. I'm tired of lack of effort on some things in my creative output. The podcast sometimes suffers because I don't plan ahead and prepare. That needs to change. I no longer want to "wing it" and hope for something good to come from it. Most podcasts do that. I'm better than that.

As much as I love wrestling...I hate talking about it. I LOVE filmmaking and being creative. It's my passion and what makes me happy. I love developing ideas from paper to putting them as content online or in film form. Doesn't matter if it's audio or visual. I just want to create.

Where am I now? Well, as I was editing the latest podcast I messaged Matt and said "we need to change". I hated the last episode. It was just lazy...I know it take balls to admit to yourself that you're putting out lazy, un motivated material but I'm my toughest critic. I would rather talk about what I love and have listeners that are truly invested in what we are discussing, then have people tune in to hear me shit on how bad Raw was. It just doesn't satisfy me and as producer and it's not fair to you.

I have some ideas I'm working on for something new. Some new ideas and content. A better way to produce things and want to capture passion again. It's no longer going to be me venting about hate and rehashing the truth, but more about discovery. Hopefully, you guys will be more inclined to listen and be part of it. 

Thanks again for listening. 

Life in 2014 and what I've learned

Life in 2014 and what I've learned

This is when I look back to 2014 and recollect all the good. 2014 was a fantastic year...honestly. Life, friends and projects went great. My mind was opened and I found, me. I don't believe in making "Best of" or "Worst of" lists...after all, they're all opinions.  

I look back and realize as the year went on, I became more introverted as I became more busy. Online life became lower and lower on my "to do" list, daily. I wrote more, I created more and I felt invigorated. My interests shifted. I am discovered myself. My style changed. I have grown. I let hate go and removed those who have yet to discover what's important.

I look forward to releasing Rabbit Hole as well as Boob Tube in March and I know, they won't be for everyone and I'm 100% comfortable with that. I appreciate all the support and love I have received. I was able to work with great people like Mike O'Mahony, Adam Ahlbrandt, Matt Barnes (who has become my partner in multiple ventures this year and a great friend), Combat Zone Wrestling and so many other impactful and loving people. 

Professional Wrestling had left my life, but 2014 it returned. My son started his own Journey. I realized how much I love being behind the camera. I loved being able to create and "make things happen". I thank those who have believed in me and my visions and/or odd thoughts. 

Discovery was my biggest accomplishment in 2014. Life is what you make of it. I wrote several scripts, ideas and things that interested me. I realized creating isn't about what others what, its about what YOU want. I grew in 2014 and I look forward to 2015 as I plan to push forward and make for me. I hope you are there.

Thank you!

Rob Dimension's Shock & Wrestling Podcast #6

Rob Dimension's Shock & Wrestling Podcast #6

Award winning filmmaker Rob Dimension and fellow filmmaker and wrestling enthusiast Matt Barnes discuss upcoming summer blockbusters, share opinions about life and of course, talk about professional wrestling. 

This is a great chance to hear the gambit of opinions and an insiders look at cinema and behind the curtain in professional wrestling. 

Rob Dimension's Shock & Wrestling Podcast #3

Rob Dimension's Shock & Wrestling Podcast #3

Welcome back to another week of Rob Dimension's Shock and Wrestling podcast, this week I'm once again, joined by fellow film maker and pro wrestling fan, Matt Barnes. On today's show we ask the question: Is Horror in a lull in theaters? We discuss other topics like screenwriting, should John Cena become a heel and more...

Don't miss your chance to be a part of the show, you can always submit questions or topics. Visit www.RobDimension.com for more info. Don't forget, rate and review the show and subscribe on iTunes or Stitcher Radio. 

Dimension Chat #4 - Horror Chat!

Dimension Chat #4 - Horror Chat!

This week I answer some great questions about Independent Filmmaking and how to get people to take a chance on them. Plus questions about happiness and more about the Horror genre. Great stuff all around, so give us a few minutes of your time and check it out.

Special thanks to Matt Barnes who helps produce these!!

I take a second look at Rob Zombie's Lords of Salem

I take a second look at Rob Zombie's Lords of Salem 

I have a love and hate relationship with Rob Zombie. I love the atmosphere he creates but I often feel like he unnecessarily dirties characters that may not need it. Not every killer or victim is white trash or so unorthodox that they would stand out in any crowd. 

In walks Lords of Salem into my life. Now, lets be kind and rewind about 6 months when I first, initially saw this. I never did make it to the movies to see this, as that might have helped my opinion, but we will get to that in a minute. When I first saw Lords of Salem, I literally hated it. I felt it was so vague and was a long dream sequence that had no vision....but I was wrong. I know...here I go again, apologizing to Rob Zombie...

On Tuesday I saw the LoS dvd on sale for $10, me being the completist I am, thought, hey, I should grab it anyways and maybe rematch it. Just like the Lords delivered the record to Heidi in the film, I think I was delivered the dvd. Just like her, I was sucked back into the film...but this time, I did something different. This time I listened to the commentary by Rob Zombie instead of the dialogue. 

Listening to Rob I quickly learned of the issues in making the film. I was captivated by Zombie's honesty about having holes in the script due to not being able to film sequences or a death of an actor. I loved hearing how he set up at a prop shop, used doors to no where and made shots with lighting and texture...this my friends...this is what makes me want to make more films!! Creativity...making things work to the best and creating some amazing sights with lighting and haze. I was instantly inspired. 

Upon my second viewing I must say I saw the beauty. I saw the light and I fell in love with the film...like, completely. I felt his desire to make this, using his best judgments and really feeling restraints like many of us other filmmakers feel. The feeling of being rushed...the certainty of knowing how to make the best looking shots but only having time for 1 or 2 takes. It was relatable.

For me, aside from the script...this is Rob Zombies best film. Its visually stunning and is remarkable to watch. I really hope if you've seen it and hated it, you give the film another chance with open eyes and see the beauty. 

Rob Dimension's Shock & Wrestling Podcast #2

Rob Dimension's Shock & Wrestling Podcast #2

This week Rob Dimension is once again joined by fellow filmmaker and wrestling fan, Matt Barnes as they discuss cinematography in movies including Captain America 2 and Lords of Salem. The also discuss Zombie Survival, changes to the WWE landscape, the chance of a 6 man tag team title return and more. 

Visit www.RobDimension.com for more information plus the Dimension Chat episodes.

Winter Soldier...Fun Film, Great Cinematography

Winter Soldier...Fun Film, Great Cinematography

Hey guys, just got back from seeing the new Captain America: Winter Soldier film and I have to say, what an experience. We made the decision to see this in IMAX and really get a grand scale look at the action...completely the best option.

Instead of a normal, paint by the numbers review of Captain America: Winter Soldier I thought I would compliment and highlight the look from a different perspective....visuals.

When I say visuals I mean Cinematography. Cinematography is really a fine art in filmmaking that sometimes is ignored. It really can enhance the viewing experience. Making the background more interesting, creating a full visual experience. Camera movements that create a flow and keep the story progressing, even though nothing, possibly is being said at the time.

In my later years, especially the filmmaking ones, I have really realized the difference between a good film and a great film is not just the story, its so much more. We, the viewer can be sucked into the film with motion, action, tension and even shakiness of camera work and set design. The little details are what can elevate a film. (Keep in mind, this is just my opinion...right or wrong in yours)

Ok, so Winter Soldier will probably never be revered as a filmmaking masterpiece but you what? Why not?? Because its a comic book film? I can honestly say that I felt captivated throughout the entire movie. So much effort was taken into each shot, keeping things moving, working or interesting not just as a focal point. The background design was flawless. The camera movements, while some may say "Unmotivated", really worked to this movies impact.

Hard to believe, I'm looking at a Marvel film with such an open eye, congratulating them on a job well done with everything but the story. The story was great. Great acting, great characters and this, above every other Marvel film I've seen to date, is now at the top of my list. This is why I'm a comic book fan, this is why I love seeing the comics I loved as a child now on screen and this is why I love making movies.

Will the purists love it? No idea...but I had a blast. Hail Hydra!!

Rabbit Hole Day 1 production blog

Rabbit Hole Day 1 production blog

Well, here we are...day 1. You work so hard to prepare for the 1st day of shooting...you stress, you worry and you even panic at times. I sat down last year and wrote this story; completely different than anything else I've done before. I've said it before, I truly feel that this will be my entry into the Midnight movie craze of old. 

I sought out Mike O'Mahony because I truly believed he IS the guy for this. Mike is a great guy and is extremely knowledgable in filmmaking. I have all the faith in the world. He's well read and appreciates all art. Once we got going, we were on the same page and we haven't looked back.

Sunday April 6, 2014

Star of Rabbit Hole, Megan Cunard

The cast and crew all head to New Jersey to our first location. Our first day would be our first real test, as it would see how well Mike and I gel, plus the on screen chemistry would be really put to the test. Plus, Mike and I worked our day that would allow me to be behind the camera with him, instead of acting...that will be this coming week. 

Mike really came to get this done. I was extremely happy and really felt like this is going to be special. We shared notes and worked great together.

Megan Cunard, our star, really came prepared and LIVED the role of "Dottie". I could not have been prouder. She fits this role great. 

My wife, Kim, who you would know from No Clowning Around and Baggage has a small role in this and again, did great and was invaluable behind the scenes getting this project together.

Lexi Lebo, our child actor also was terrific. You just never know when you deal with children actors but wow, Lexi is fantastic. She also, knew all of her lines and came completely prepared...very professional.

Rob, Lexi and Mike

Our crew of Lisa Fisk (Make up and small special effects) has been practicing for weeks and knew exactly what we wanted. Her Husband, Ed is helping with some set design and props and really hit a home run. Deirdre Kinnevy is back with behind the scenes and photos and is always top notch. Plus, we welcomed Mark Cunard as our sound design specialist and Erich Ficke as our production assistant. We had a few extras on set, day one also in long time supporters Dave Sitbon, Russ and Diane Hackett who were super patient and great additions. 

Overall, Day 1 was fantastic. While a long day, it was satisfying. Again, I thank everyone who has helped make this a reality. We still have 5 days left of filming...some will be tough. Some days ahead will push some of the actors and crew to our limits but I know, as a team, we accomplish this!

This weekend we welcome new additions to our team...but as a team, we are one.

New episode of Dimension Chat plus my Wrestlemania 30 predictions with Bill Apter

New episode of Dimension Chat 

plus my Wrestlemania 30 predictions with Bill Apter

This week I'm back answering your questions about Crowd Funding, how to deal with Facebook changes and promoting..plus a few fun ones. Thanks to Matt Barnes for hooking this up. Have a question? Let me know!

Then I was fortunate enough to spend some time with my long time friend Bill Apter. Those who are not familiar with Bill, he was instrumental in the success of Professional Wrestling. He was an iconic journalist and photographer for over 40 years and has covered events all over the world with every major star.

These are my Wrestlemania 30 predictions on Apters Alley!

Reflecting and Giving Thanks

Reflecting and Giving Thanks

This week I turned 43 years old...sigh..another year and, the way I see it...one more year shaved from my existence. That's probably the morbid way to think of things but, it's actually the opposite. I started late in life creating things and really being who I am. I need to get my ass moving to make more movies, be a part of great projects and make a small scuff mark in the genre of horror.

I always try to take risks and follow my heart. Sometimes it works out, sometimes it doesn't. A lot of people don't know, but at the age of 20, I was a member of the Professional Bowlers Association. I had fun, learned about disappointment and prior to that, developed a strong work ethic. For many summers in my teens, I spent in the darkness of bowling alley's wanting to perfect my skill. I had my own business at 21 years of age and worked 7 days a week, sometimes having 2 jobs to survive. I am thankful. 

Fast forward to the age of 28....In a freak meeting with Bill Apter who walked into my retail store, I became friends with Steve Corino and my life in Professional Wrestling started. Again, not one to sit idle, I decided to train and learn the ropes of the sport and business. I learned how to promote, perform and write. Yes...write. I helped write PWF TV, I was an on air talent and then later, wrote Live TV for my second trainer, Afa the Wild Samoan. I learned so much about people...the good and the bad. I performed in front of thousands and had everything you can imagine yelled and thrown at me. I am thankful.

Once I hit 40, something broke in my brain...depression hit. I have no idea what happened, but it did. My home life became awful, my business life became awful and my life, in general, became awful. Sometimes you need to see the bright side of things...as I sat, numb...I had a spark. I decided to write my emotions down, except it wasn't just writing...it was a script. Mumbles the clown was me...I was the guy who was the clown making everyone laugh, except honestly, I was sad. My mind was clouded with static but, the writing was releasing it. I wrote my feelings. I am thankful.

This past year, I have really accepted my role in life. I am a writer, an actor, a podcaster...I am a Father, a Husband and a good person. I will always give others credit when they deserve it. In all these years, my attitude hasn't changed. I'm ego free and am always accessible and willing to offer advice. I've worked hard and pushed forward. I am thankful.

I am thankful to each and every person who has stood by me, those who have said a kind word, those who have believed in me and those who have become my friends. I am thankful. 

Baggage Diary #1 (May 16,2013)

Baggage Diary #1 (May 16,2013)

Hey guys, just like my last film I wanted share my experience with those who wanted an inside look. As you know, I'm always honest and never hold anything back. So you will be my co-pilot along with this flight.

Saturday starts our shoot and it's a relatively easy shoot day. Most of the real aggressive acting is the weekend after, but I still feel pressure. Whenever you create, at least for me, there is always a sense of hope and anxiety. I hope I don't let anyone down and my goal is to do my best. With "No Clowning Around", my mind was a mess and I really didn't care if people liked it...I did it for me. This time around with "baggage", I desire appreciation. I wrote this short with the intention to make something horrific, yet beautiful. I chalk this up as Growth and Discovery.

"baggage" follows a day in the life of Benjamin. Benjamin tries hard to fit in...he wants to impress you and look for your acceptance. I have a backstory I've thought of for Benjamin, so I have an idea of what he feels like and how heavy his heart is. As the days approach, I can't help but feel this black cloud over me...sorrow, sadness and some underlying rage. I feel what Benjamin feels..I feel like the puzzle piece that regardless how hard you try, it just won't fit in. I am, in essence, carrying his baggage. Benjamin in Normal is something he has been told, but obviously...he isn't.

Pre-production has gone great. Thank you to everyone that helped make this film a reality. A lot of the supporters, you will actually see IN the film! We shoot with all the extras this weekend, next weekend is very intimate and will help with the darker mood of the film. I have shopped and gathered wardrobe, small set dressings and tried to think of everything to help bring his world to real life. Having a fantastic crew has made this process great. We have shared notes, thoughts and put a lot of time and effort into this 12-15 minute film. You really learn who you can put faith in.

I think the scariest thing is Benjamin's story could be happening...next door to your house and you would never know until it was too late. You can follow along as we film right here or at www.YouveBeenRobbedFilms.com. I will also try to tweet (or Kim will from my phone) photos and thoughts as we film, on my twitter @RobDimension

Thanks for reading!

Crowdfunding - Who Can Use It?

Crowdfunding - Who Can Use It?

This past week, the internet community has been a buzz with Zach Braff starting his Kickstarter campaign for his new film WISH YOU WERE HERE. This on the heels of the VERONICA MARS fund raising operation, that had a overwhelming response for the cancelled show to be greenlit for a feature film.


Let me give you some background on the term Crowdfunding. Crowdfunding is exactly what it sounds like; someone has an idea for a gadget, a book or a movie (just to name a few examples) and that person then reaches out to the general public to help raise funds for the project. Typically, the donator will receive something in return; possibly a pre-released version of the project, maybe a walk on role in the movie or even be given a higher credit and really be involved in the process behind the scenes. Sites like Kickstarter and IndieGoGo have helped so many projects become a reality for struggling creators. It's designed for Independent projects.

The biggest riff this week was based on a big fish like Zach Braff wanting to swim in the little pool, with the feeling he will hog all the food. Braff, the writer and actor behind the successful GARDEN STATE reached out to his audience and asked for help, claiming he wanted to make this film, yet remaining creative and giving up no rights that are often restricted by production studios. He wants to make his movie, his way...I can respect that.


Let's be realistic and look at both sides of the Crowdfunding debate.


The Bad - Who deserves your money? Many independent filmmakers are nervous and feel that with someone like Zach Braff having an extremely successful campaign (raising the almost $2 million dollar budget within the first 48 hours), no money will be left for us. The real fear is that more "celebrities" will now turn to this measure, ruining the purpose that sites like Kickstarter were designed for.

Braff has his own fan base but is now also reaching for our limited group, so there are two possibilities here - Yes, it is indeed possible that potential funds that were designated to come our way, will now, in fact, go to him. Let's say I want to ask for $2,000 to make my first feature film. Yes, I'm aware that's almost nothing but to many, this achieves a dream and can be a game changer. So, in essence we need 20 people to each donate $100. Now, what if those same 20 people look at Braff's campaign and notice how polished it is. In his teaser/pitch trailer he gives you stars that are recognizable, flaunts his award winning GARDEN STATE that screams "I'm successful" and drops terms like "Final Cut", even explaining that if he has to deal with a big studio, they will compromise his "vision". To the first time Kickstarter viewer, this all seems extremely appealing. I don't know about you, but I don't have any famous friends that are on major hit TV shows to use at my leisure. One would have to ask, Braff must have millions, right? Make the movie yourself you greedy turd!!


Now...hold on a second...let's look at the other side

As a fellow struggling filmmaker I had to step back and congratulate Mr Braff for putting together an amazing campaign. If you look at his page, it is full of information, the pitch is done slickly and makes me only want to work harder. Plus, what if he is actually creating an awareness about crowdfunding, thus helping us have a wider audience to reach? Is it possible? I think it can be...let's say his 28,000 donator's (as of now) all have an amazing experience; he delivers on every promise and makes them all feel they got exactly what they wanted, because, admittedly, crowdfunding has a few tarnishes on it from untrustworthy organizers. This could shine a new light on this, give us a new influx of people who want to be involved and we can make more!


Honestly, if people have an opportunity to stand behind someone or something they believe in, they have that right. Donating is just that...a donation. It's your money and no one can tell you how to spend it. If you feel you're getting something out of it, than why should anyone else question it. As someone who has launched two successful crowdfunding campaigns I can say this - I couldn't do it without you, I mean that. It's amazing to hear the kind things that people enclose in messages, the feeling I get to hear  that someone else is living through me...it's overwhelming. Zach has done one thing, at least for me...his presentation has made me realize I need to step up my game. I need to offer the best I can offer, I need to work harder and I need to make the best product I can make or I will lose the faith that has been given to me by others.


The bottom line is this - I'm at the bottom of this creating spectrum, a true independent. I'm hoping that Zach's success will create a trickle down effect and all the rest of the little fish in this big pond will be able to eat too. To the creators, make it count...make it your best effort. To the donator's; when you donate a few bucks, you are literally changing someone's life for the better.

Want to look at my project?
www.YouveBeenRobbedFilms.com

BAGGAGE Diary (4/13/13) "baggage" gets funded!! Where do we go from here?

BAGGAGE Diary (4/13/13) "baggage" gets funded!! Where do we go from here?

Earlier this week, my next short film titled "baggage" was fully funded. With a budget of $3,000, we were able to reach this goal with true believers and people's generosity. I am humbled, truly touched and thankful beyond words that people intrust me to create within the Horror genre. It's an overwhelming feeling.

So, this leads to...where do we go from here?

This past week, I met with Director Jeremiah Kipp, Cinematographer Jeffrey Gould and assistant Cinematographer Steve Adams with our final preparations for our scheduled 4 day shoot. We are filming in Long Branch, New Jersey and the surrounding areas. This meeting allowed us to finalize our locations, tie up any loose ends from the script and get a better idea of lighting, based on time of day, for the outside scenes.

We started off very early on Wednesday and headed to our first location. Let me say this before I write any further, I really believe I have the best problem solvers and visionaries I could ask for on this project. Every shot was looked at a several times, every position is approached and it's 100% serious business. This project has taken on a life of it's own.

(I realize to others, this project will seem small but I can say, inside of this creative bubble..it's enormous)

We went from location to location, even being stopped by a representative of the Chamber of Commerce to let us know how excited they are we chose Long Branch. We walked around the neighborhood and were greeted by numerous business owners offering their assistance. It's the best feeling in the world. All of the locations were secured and we enjoyed a nice lunch that was spend discussion movies and shot ideas that we all are fans of. 

When you make film with true film lovers...life stops, even for a lunch, while everything focuses on one goal..to make great film.

Even though we are fully funded, we are still looking for people who would like to help with donations. This allows more breathing room to do more, take more risks and make the best film we can. We are still keeping the perks open until May 15th. This allows someone who would love to be an extra, to do so. Filming weekend for extras will be May 18 and 19. Again, thank you to all who have taken interest, shared the vision and given to the goal. This film is happening, because of YOU.

If you would like to be a part of this...visit www.YouveBeenRobbedFilms.com 

Jealousy and why it doesn't work

Jealousy and why it doesn't work

Being in entertainment, I have felt jealousy and dealt with jealousy. Jealousy is really just our own insecurities coming to the surface. It could be fueled by someone doing something similar, maybe something that's done better or sometimes it's just because "I wish I thought of it first". I have dealt with it but as you get older you quickly realize...jealousy just gets in the way. Focusing on a negative doesn't work...ever.

Let me use this as an example - I see some filmmakers just outright blasting others or not supporting, based on jealousy. Now, having said that, let's also note that some people are assholes and shouldn't be supported. On the flip side, I encourage a lot of people to make movies and make them better. Why? Because as a fan of the Horror genre I WANT things better. I almost feel that on an Independent level we are sometimes cast aside or even ignored because of the subpar quality work that has been done...but...let's also not forget those that have laid the ground work for people to become better. There is a huge difference between bad and working with what was available at the time. A good eye is still a good eye, regardless.

It pains me when I don't see a lot of filmmakers working together, even supporting each others projects. Maybe because I started as a reviewer and made it common practice to promote others. Just being negative or talking down others to hope elevate yourself is a lose, lose situation. It draws negative attention to yourself while making the genre pool look bad. I handle this the way I handled my reviews...if I'm not a fan, I opt to not talk about it..but if I AM a fan, then I will gladly help promote it. Standing on the sidelines, being jealous will never accomplish anything. 

Other people have podcasts..some better some worse...other people have short films, some amazing stuff, some just thrown together in their backyard. I want people to elevate their game...it only helps everyone. It pushes others to be better...isn't that what you want? Don't you, as a creator what to be the best you can be? That's what I want. I will always support those who support others. I will always be there to pat them on the back when they've done as great job...even if it's not needed. Negativity just hampers things...sure, it's natural, but let's work harder to raise the bar. I want to be my best, I want to work with others that have the same goal...I want to be positive.

Anyways..that's my rant for the day...go be your best!