Young Victoria was a smash with our audience. Pictured above are Raghni Reddy, Sally Start, Martin Anaya
and Katie Start at the Crest premiere. See pics of this wonderful event www.CALIFORNIAFILM.com
Topic: Paul
has been a 1st unit AD on many films throughout a long career. Paul uses a unique teaching method to really inform and
enlighten about the art of film. A packed house greeted Paul and again later at our after-party. More pics at: http://www.californiafilm.net/photo/albums/cal-film-meeting-january-2010
Cal Film met
Executive Producer, Al Gonzalez who explained about what it takes to make it in the professional world of has 25 years of
35mm, HD cinematography, directing, editing, and producing.
PLUS:
We heard from some awesome PCS film makers who shared their experiences! Everyone who attended
was treated as our VIP! They...
JAIME TAFOYA of Todd Stanley Productions (DEADLIEST CATCH)
Jaime is responsible for story development & website creative on the new show, Discover El Dorado produced by Emmy-Award-winner, Todd Stanley (Deadliest Catch). Jaime studied
Communications at San Francisco State and managed the start-up of several tech companies, including co-founding Wirestone.com
in 1999. Experience El Dorado seen on NEWS10 ABC in Sacramento.
PLUS: LOCAL FILMMAKERS ROUND-UP:
Thanks to Place called Sacramento film makers Chris Henry and Frank Casanova for their insight and preview
of what's to come!
The Sacramento Film Festival is proud to introduce THE SACRAMENTO OUTDOOR FILM FESTIVAL. The festival
happens each Saturday night in August and features some outstanding films for the entire family.
ADMISSION IS FREE
The best part about this new screening series aside from the films of course is that all screenings
are free! Fun and games kick off each Saturday night culminating in a screening at 9pm. There's even a beer garden thanks
to Hoppy Brewing company for those needing a cold libation as well as other refreshments. The park opens at 5pm and movies
are at 9pm.
This month Chris Swanberg and Chris Barcellos showed us the Cannon
SLR that they used to shoot award winning video...that's right we said SLR
(still camera)!
Members heard about this revolutionary breakthrough and got a true
SNEEK PEEK at the FUTURE of FILM MAKING!! It was TRULY BREATHTAKING! Do not miss NCFF meetings as you will miss the future
today!
PLUS:
Screenwriter's Wanted: Jodie Flemming will be leading a group
of our screen-writers for table reads, peer review and support!
** Thanks
to Jeff at NMV Productions for sponsoring
our last meeting. NMV is a professional commerical photo & video production facility in
Gold River, Just off Hwy. 50, off of Sunrise Blvd. We'll return to Studio Center Next month.
Special thanks to KGO SAN FRANCISCO'S OWN Dennis
Willis as he brought his signature FUNNY, INSIGHTFUL COMMENTARY about the film industry -- FROM FEARLESS OSCAR PREDICTIONS TO THE
WEEKLY BOX OFFICE Dennis was truely a breath of fresh air.
Members met Martin Anaya and Richard Burnsed, Executive Director and Program
Director of the Sacramento International Film Festival. Between them, Marty and Rich have years of programming experience
and close relations with some of the world's top fests including Mill Valley, San Francisco International, Denver and many
others.
Sacramento Film Fest Fans and Norcal members got the first look at Danny Boyle's smash new
hit. Mr Boyle had previously directed the modern classics "Trainspotting" and "28
Days Later". Watch for future EXCLUSIVE SCREENINGS.
Richard brings 20+ years of orchestral and Hollywood Studio experience to his compositions.
As an A-List Violinist, including Principal for John Williams, Danny Elfman
and John Ottman, Richard’s resume includes work with such composers as John
Barry, Hans Zimmer, James Horner, James Newton
Howard, and the late great Jerry Goldsmith. The meeting was hosted by local composer
Phillip Howard.
Sacramento naitive Thomas Whelan stopped by to discuss how he became "the man" to go from
Vancouver film school to a successful Hollywood career. his latest, "The Art of Travel" just got wide distribution through
First Look pictures. Kudos Tom!
Several filmmakers showed the group what they are up to and updated us on some of their happenings
including Mike Wilson, who recently won the Golden Remmy for his film "SOUNDS" and Joyce Glover/ Frank Casanova's new film,
"Doing Time".
Billed as "The original film and music experience",
the trips festival was a special presentation by Pacifica Community TV and co-promoted by Norcal film for our bay area fan
base. This thought provoking documentary deals with the seminal event that marked the very beginning of the hippie movement
and the coming out party for icons like the Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane and Bill Graham.
This romantic comedy EXCLUSIVE SNEAK PEEK stars Ricky Gervais
and Tea Leone and was presented completely free of charge to the friends of Norcal film! Watch for more exclusive SFF/Norcal
presentations in the months ahead.
This was the amazing mixer/party event of the summer as over 50 Norcal friends turned up to
share and enjoy as we drank special "level-Up Mojitos and practiced our 'Guitar Hero' chops!
Matthew Peak - Acclaimed illustrator Live in-person
Acclaimed poster artist Matthew Peak spoke to an excited Norcal film group about art for movies
and how presentation makes all the difference. Matthew is the son of famous illistrator Bob Peak
and together the two have been responsible for some of the most Iconic film art in the history of Cinema including for films
such as Camelot, The Matrix and Sin City.
Thanks also to musician/composer Richard Altenbach (Indiana Jones) for
making a stop in. Richard assures us he will be back for a full session soon!
This awesome event featured over 150 films over 11 days. Programs included special guests like John Ottman (The usual
Suspects, X-Men) and award winning films like Personal Quests For Truth, Beyond The Call and Henry May Long. For full
detail go to www.sacramentofilmfestival.com
Currnt TV's Saskia Wilson who also programs for Slam Dance talks about what Festivals seek
in short, documentary categories and introduces the CURRENT VISIONS doc program for the Sac Film Fest.
Our Annual Christmas party is always a superb time and a fantastic networking opportunity.
Special guests included author Bud Gardner (Chicken Soup For the Writer's Soul) and actor Jason Bortz whose kareoke rendition
of Billy Joel's 'Piano Man' was simply awsome!
Recipient of numerous television industry awards and film festival accolades, "Tech
Closeup" is a nationally syndicated show that has emerged as the leading television program covering the full scope
of the high tech world. Norcalfilm members learned the trials and tribulations of
creating, producing and selling a major distribution TV show.
a true gentleman and a true class act, Stefen Fangmeier is also a true professional. having
created the visual effects masterpieces for such films
as Master and Commander
and Twister, Mr Fangmeire told us all about his latest project as Director of the smash hit, Eragon. For those that wantyed to learn about directing a major film for a major studio, this
was a major clinic.
Entertainment Lawyer Christine O'Connor has worked for some of the industry heavyweights including
NBC and Universal studios. On 9-7 she brought her legal prowess to Sacramento for the benefit of our members.
Sacramento Film Festival and Deon Taylor brought his new film starring
Rutger Hauer to the Natomas Regal Cinema. This locally produced film also features the music of
Wyclef Jean as well as the talents of several Sacramento notables.
Members got to meet and learn from some of the best new directors including those working
on Place Called Sacramento 2008. We hear a couple folks got a gig from this one!
The just concluded Sacramento Film Festival held what many are already calling
"The best local film exhibition Sacramento has seen". On may 4th Norcalfilm celebrated the filmmakers.
Our special guests shared their 48 Hours experiences, challenges and triumphs. They also screened their work and took questions
from an appreciative crowd!
(Pictured above w/ Leah Thompson) Perhaps best known for his roles in such films as Back
to The Future II and III, Twilight Zone the Movie and Clint Eastwood's
Pale Rider, today Jeffrey is head of production for Monolith Works, a Bay area based film
company with some very interesting irons in the fire. Jeffrey also starred in the SFF 07 film Edible.
Sacramento's brightest and best filmmakers joined special guests and filmmakers from
around the world for THE Premiere Cinema excellence! Special guests included: Chris Lockhart (ICM),
John Walker (Pixar), Dony Nelson (Paramount), Deon Taylor (Hooks and Taylor),
Sally Forcier (Forcier Casting), Ed Parks (Special), Thelton Henderson
(US 9th Curcuit Judge), Nick Toma (Ch31), Lois Wolk (Assembly woman), Dan Lungren
(US Congressman) and many many more. Thanks to all for making this year's festival the biggest and best ever!
Local actor Chris Holley has had a recent run of Hollywod excellence having been featured
in Joe Carnahan's SMOKIN ACES as well as films with Ed Norton and Lawrence
Fishburne. On Feb 2nd, Chris thrilled local directors and actors with his take on Hollywood and some sage words of
wisdom. ALSO: as Chris is a vet of the local film programs this group participates in, he helped us launch
the 48 HOUR FILM FEST, Sactown style! more info
Sacramento naitive Joe Carnahan brought several stars and lots of
fun to the premiere party. Two lucky NORCAL members got the experience for free!(More Pics)
The "Finanswer" taught Norcal film the importance of the Business Plan in preparing your film.
Her speach educated on the importance of doing your home wrok and how to do your home work to market your film.
Mr Stone has been an industry Icon for years with such classic films as
"JFK", "Born on The Fourth of July" and "World Trade Center". On November 8th, Sacramento State, in association with The Sacramento
Film Festival presented an evening with Mr. Stone. Bio
Publisher of Creative Screenwriting Magazine and the foremost authority on Screenwriting today
speaks about his upcoming Screenwriter's Expo and what it takes to make it in this business from a real pro's perspective.
Pod cast coming soon!
1/2 of the amazing team of Hooks and Taylor, Deon is a Sacramento filmmaker who has raised
nearly $35 million dollars and whose new film, 7eventy 5ive, starring Rutger Hauer opens theatrically in January 2007.
Deon wowed the Norcal community with his amazing accomplishments and his humility.
Over 300 attendees joined the Sacramento Film Festival and Norcal Film
at the Sacramento Zoo thanks to sponsors Radio Disney, Raleys and Bar-S more info. More info
this fun filled event was part networking, part workshop and all fun as members
got the opportunity to workshop screenplays, enjoy great food and great company. Look for more exclusive Norcal networing
events in coming months.
Mr. Howard brought his genius with sound on film to Norcal film in June. His exploration of
the history of music scores and examples of technique enlightened and educated.
Who knew that when Timothy Heider came to screen his #1 winning film, "The Rift" from the
SFF 06 that he'd also be donating his entire prize of $1,000 to local charity Loaves and Fishes? Thank you Tim. Both you and
your movie are one of a kind!
Fatna Sallak-Williams of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) discussed the SAG low-budget
film agreements and walked actors and filmmakers through what it takes to create union projects.
This wonderful examination of digital distribution helped members realize that they do not
have to wait for Hollywood in order to make money in motion pictures today. Topics covered included I-Tunes, DTV and HD distribution
methods.
The "Godfather of American Screenwriting"....Special guest was the head of the Screenwriting
Department at UCLA training many top writers including Francis Ford Copalla (Apocolypse Now)
and Alexander Payne (Sideways).
Matisyahu's "King Without a Crown" reached #9 on Billboard top 100 in
January 06. Members were treated to the docuentary film of his rise from the Sacramento Film Festival 2005 as well as
a sneak peak at the upcoming Festival.
Fun was had by all as NorCal film rang in the holidays with style. Thanks to special guest
Charlie (La Law, Nash Bridges) for making it extra special by teaching the group to release our creative energies in
a fantastic session!
Filmmakers J. Alexander Jimenez and Larry Sherman discussed the
making of their new Lion's Gate feature film FUGITIVE HUNTER and the trials and tribulations of fesature film production in
the Capital city.
KGO Radio film critic, Filmmaker, and producer of two TV shows (Film Trip
and Soundwaves) Dennis Willis discussed the do's and don'ts of making your own film. He has just finished a film with Clean's
Paulo Cascardo, "Unwrapped" will premiere at the 2006 Sacramento Film Festival. More Info
NCWF members enjoyed an extra special treat from the Sacramento International Film Festival's
"Nor-Cal Allstars" program plus a world premiere Music Video by "Best Hip-Hop 2005" Sammy winner, Crazy Ball Head and
filmmakeer Gil Silva.
Super Scene Sharing Pic Nic In the Park -
over 30 members gathered to enjoyed
fine food, fun and an excercise in scene reading to benefit actors and screenwriters working on their product.
Screenwriter extraordinaire, Andrea Wolfe -
a special event . Andrea has published 4 books and scores of screenplays that have produced several feature films.
Sacramento International Film Festival -
Norcal Film holds a special event with two time best picture winner, Super Producer John Daly (Terminator, Platoon,
The Last Emperor). The festival was incredible and members recieved half off regular ticket prices!
Award winning Screenwriter, Richard Broadhurst - a gentleman who has worked with Noah Wyle, Jason Alexander and Ed Asner, Broadhurst is a resident playwright
at STC. plus Ron Cooper to talk about the Upcoming Place Called Sacramento.
Kurt Johnson - Loved for his work with
B street Theater, Kurt has appeared in over 40 profesional theatrical productions and BIG Screen films including Mad
Citywith Dustin Hoffman and Blood Guts Bullets & Octane w/ Joe Carnahan. Kurt
Rocked the NCWF with his amazing wit and charm and educated about how actors digest a script.
Local director Burt Wilson entertained on his five years with American International
Pictures (AIP) during the hey day of the "exploitation pic" w/ hilarious clips for films like "Godzilla Vs. the
Smog Monster", "Frogs," "A Boy and his Dog," "Black Mama, White Mama," "The Thing with Two Heads"! In 1985,
the Museum of Modern Art did a 25-year retrospective of AIP films for their contribution to film art.
X- Mas Party - Featured an interactive training activity that brought together writers and actors to create short presentations,
which encouraged group interaction. Members were impressed as this meeting was a huge success and encouraged
much active group participation.
UC Berkely Screenwriting Prof, Jennifer Van Sijll - wowed
the NCWF and contributed her abundant knowledge to our understanding of "Cinematic Screenwriting" with an all day seminar
that supported many members and their projects.
MICHAEL DRYHURST - Super
Producer, director Michael Dryhurst spoke to NCWF. Michael has produced Superman amd Excorcist films, Never Say Never
Again (Sean Connery), Excalibur, Hope and Glory and many more. His films have been nominated for Academy Awards and insights
into filmmaking are legendary.
To sign up or volunteer for an event, see our "Contact Us" page.
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