Pensacola Film Festival

Landing A Roll With An Independent Film

admin — Sat, 08 Oct 2011 00:00:00 +0000

Many people love independent films because they have meaning to them. Most movies produced today all about special effects, but independent film movies are more about the storyline. Independent films are also a great way to start your movie career. Here are some things you should do if you want to land a role in an independent film.

The first thing you should do is go to your local college and visit their film department. College students in the film department are always looking for volunteers to star in their film. You will probably not get paid for your role in the film, but you might get free food. This is a great cheap way to break into the independent film market.

The next thing you should do is find a legit agency that does casting calls. You may have to pay a small fee, but the agency will call you to audition for parts in independent films. You may get to work alongside other famous people if you choose to go this route.

Last but not least, you should check the classified section. Some production companies will put casting calls in the local newspaper to find actors and actresses.

How To Find Your Own Star With Independent Films In Florida

admin — Sat, 24 Sep 2011 00:00:00 +0000

When you think of Florida and the movie business you usually think of commercials, TV pilots and low budget horror films. It may surprise you that Florida is a tremendous place for small, independent film projects. With technical know-how and enthusiastic film boards, Florida is a tremendous, untapped resource for independent film-makers. You can find your own star with independent films in Florida.

Film support people in Florida are aware of the potential business even a small, independent film can generate in a community, and they turn out. The film commissioner and staff in a typical Florida community can find locations to shoot scenes, solve technical and logistical problems, and provide people to fill positions of every kind. With so many commercials and TV shows shot in Florida it is not difficult to find personnel to handle production demands, provide technical expertise, and fill holes in casting. From pre-production to finished project, Florida film people are a terrific asset.

You can produce an independent film in Florida because the State has tremendous resources. Knowledgeable film people and a variety of locations to choose from will make a Florida film project worthwhile. They can answer any questions that arise and solve any problem an independent film company runs into.

The New Stars Of Florida’s Independent Films

admin — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 +0000

Extra! Extra! Read all about the new stars of Florida’s Independent Films! New faces are on the screen, sure to light up the night and add some sizzle that has nothing to do with the summer sun! Of recent mention in Tallahassee and Tampa Film Festivals are such names as Ryan Donowho, Arielle Kebbel, Robi Michael, Ahmed Ahmed, Ariel Norton, Jump with Me, Obba Babatunde in “Fallen Faithful” and Annie Bu Maure in “Los Dioses Rotos.” Keep your eyes open for these fresh actors and actresses bringing something new to the table in the spirit of “The Blair Witch Project” from years past, an independent production from Florida that became a national phenomenon. At a time when the economy is strained and wallets are stretched to the limit, independent films are being made at a more acceptable expense, which means introducing new stars to the public. What a great way to see new talent, find out what’s out there, see the creativity and imagination of independent film productions. Stay tuned in and see where these new additions to the film industry are headed. Not only are they fresh, exciting, and edgy, but these new stars often bring the Florida flavor!

Our Favorite Florida Films

admin — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0000

When the film festival’s going on you’re still going to want to watch some great flicks. If you live in Florida or if you just happen to love our state you’ve got to keep an eye out on your direct TV channels for some of these Florida-set classics…
Porky’s – Perhaps it’s not the most high-brow film you’ll ever see but it’s perfect for summer and a lot of fun at that. Join the gang as they get into standard high school hijinks down here in sunny Florida.
In Her Shoes – A great relational piece about the bond sisters share starring none other than Cameron Diaz. Florida features prominently in this film and you’ll really get a lay of the land.
Flipper – Showcasing what Florida’s best known for, Flipper is the tale of a loveable dolphin who can do no wrong. There are gorgeous sunsets and tons of water shots if you’re into that kind of thing.
Sunshine State – As close to indy as you’ll get on this list, Sunshine State explores the nuances of life in Florida when you’ve got a New York state of mind.

Matthew Maiellaro animates fast food, makes Pensacola proud

www.pensacolafilmfestival.com — Sun, 24 Oct 2010 17:20:45 +0000

The cult television series Aqua Teen Hunger Force has gained legions of fansenough to justify the full-length Aqua Teen Hunger Force Colon Movie Film for Theaters, anyway. How many of those fans know that the show was created by an unassuming writer/producer from Pensacola is unknown. However, creator Matthew Maiellaro has appeared on the show: as a Chinese food delivery boy with an electric guitar.For those unfamiliar with the series, it follows three anthropomorphic fast food items: Master Shake (a milkshake), Frylock (a carton of fries), and Meatwad (a ball of ground meat). The series originally started as a comedy series about the characters solving mysteries, usually instigated by the mad scientist Dr. Weird. Over the course of the series’ 8 seasons, however, these “plots” have largely been abandoned.Maiellaro created the characters for an episode of Space Ghost Coast to Coast, for which he was a writer and producer. However, the popularity of ATHF (which he created along with Dave Willis) allowed him to create several more of his own shows, including ATHF spin-offs, the anime parody Perfect Hair Forever, and the bizarre conspiracy thriller 12 Oz. Mouse (which, unsurprisingly, stars a 12 oz. mouse).Maiellaro’s works have become associated with surrealism, postmodernism, and black comedy, but things never get too dark. He’s also a music fan, and many underground groups like the metal band Mastodon and the cowpunk group Nine Pound Hammer provide theme songs or other tracks for his shows. While watching any of his series, you get the sense that the creator is always winking at and playing with the audience, and enjoying the opportunity to let the crazy imagination inside his head play out onscreen. What more could Pensacola independent film fans ask for?

Katy Mixon hits the major leagues

www.pensacolafilmfestival.com — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 07:19:55 +0000

Born in Pensacola, actress Katy Mixon’s first role was in the 2005 dark drama/thriller The Quiet. Her next role was a large turn-around, and overall more indicative of her later work: a role in the 2006 short-film version of the off-Broadway musical Zombie Prom. The next few years were a whirlwind of guest appearances in indie flicks (Finding Amanda, The Informers) and comedy sitcoms (My Name is Earl). Her biggest success to date, though, has been as April Buchanon in the snarky HBO comedy, Eastbound and Down. Mixon’s character is a love interest for washed-out MLB pitcher Kenny Powers, who was forced to move back to his hometown and become a PE teacher.Where can Mixon fans see her next? She has a recurring role in the new CBS comedy Mike & Molly as the slim and sexy sister of main character Molly. She’ll also be appearing in the 2011 action-horror Nicolas Cage vehicle Drive Angry. Pensacola natives may mourn the fact that they won’t be passing her on the street anytime soon, but they can also admire her for her ambition and varied body of work.

Have a Florida film marathon

www.pensacolafilmfestival.com — Sun, 17 Oct 2010 04:09:11 +0000

Florida’s varied environment and inhabitants have made it the setting for several critically-acclaimed films. Grab your popcorn and settle in for a night of basking in the Sunshine State. You don’t have to follow our ordering, eitherarrange them in whatever order you like.1) Contact (1997): This sci-fi film by Carl Sagan was controversial for some of its musings on religion and science, and for including clips of then-President Bill Clinton and CNN. However, it’s still a strong story with good performances from Jody Foster and Matthew McConaughey and a good portion of the story set at Cape Canaveral. Pensacola even plays a role in the story in a pretty interesting way.2) Flipper (1963): We’ll go with the original here, although the 1996 remake with Elijah Wood is just as charming. The original starred Luke Halpin, Chuck Connors, and Kathleen Maguire, and was the first appearance of the popular dolphin who befriends a boy living in the Florida Keys. A television series ran from 1964-1967.3) Revenge of the Nerds II: Nerds in Paradise (1987): This sequel to the popular ’80s comedy tames down the humor for a PG-13 rating, but there’s still plenty of laughs as the Lambda Lambda Lambdas head to Fort Lauderdale for some fun in the sun. Of course, they meet some pretty ladies. And of course, the Alpha Betas return for a rematch. And of course of course, hijinks ensue.4) Miami Vice (2006): This updating of the gritty 1980 cop series features strong performances from both Colin Farrell and Jamie Foxx. Crockett and Tubbs take down drug smugglers in glorious digital video. The mean streets of Miami never looked so good.

Indie films now playing in theaters

www.pensacolafilmfestival.com — Thu, 14 Oct 2010 21:29:42 +0000

Looking for something a little different the next time you head to the movie theater? Well, Google Maps your nearest indie cinema, because there are several films opening up soon that you’ll only be able to see in smaller-run theaters.Down Terrace (October 15) is an edgy new British crime comedy with stars from popular British television, including Spaced and the original The Office series. Father-and-son actors Bob and Robin Hill play the father and son of a crime family who have been betrayed by someone within their organization. As they try to uncover the informant, they find black humor and violence trailing in their wake.White Lion comes (October 15) from South African filmmaker Michael Swan. While venerated by the Shangaan African tribe, the white lion of the tale is rejected by its pride when it’s born. A tribesman named Gisani befriends the lion, which turns dangerous when the lion is targeted by hunters. This is an exciting and unique family adventure with both drama and emotion.You Will Meet a Tall Dark Stranger (Now Playing) is Woody Allen’s latest film. A cavalcade of fine actors, including Antonio Banderas, Josh Brolin, Anthony Hopkins, and Naomi Watts, star in this story of two married couples (the wife in one is the daughter of the other). Both must confront some uncomfortable truths when the older husband leaves, and his wife becomes embroiled in the machinations of a manipulative fortune teller.

Central Florida Film Festival is making waves

www.pensacolafilmfestival.com — Thu, 14 Oct 2010 21:26:02 +0000

The Central Florida Film Festival does something few other festivals dothe organizers (directors, writers, and producers themselves) send detailed critiques to the rejected entries. It’s this level of commitment that makes the festival a labor of love, albeit one with the credentials to back up their opinions. The Board of Directors includes writer/producer/director Bob Cook, writer/producer Chase Chenowith, writer/producer/director Reuben Leder, writer/producer/director Gary Toll, and editor Ginger Brigham Cook.Filmmakers from around the world can enter into the five categories: Documentary, Short Film, Feature Film, Florida Project, and College Student Project. You can look at the archives from the festival’s founding back in 2005 to learn about many films you’ve never heard of. For example, Jesse and Jeremy Veverka’s documentary China: The Rebirth of an Empire won the documentary category in 2010 for its accurate depiction of China’s recent growth. Roy Clovis’s short film The Cycle won in its category. This poetic 16-minute film tells the story of a young mother in Brooklyn who reacts when her daughter’s bicycle is stolen. The feature film winner, The Fat Boy Chronicles, was an indie drama from director Jason Winn about a 14-year-old overweight boy who has to deal with bullying and persecution at high school. The movie shows that indie filmmakers are still focusing on issues that often go unnoticed in modern cinema. Dealing with obesity can be even harder when everybody seems to be against you. Winn’s touching story shows that there is still hope, even when things seem darkest, and that with the help of family and friends, you can overcome adversity.The next Central Florida Film Festival is set for September 2-5, 2011. Mark your calendars nowit’s sure to be a fascinating and moving experience.