January 2016
UIFN January 2016 Meeting Agenda - January 3, 2016
Meeting date: January 5th 2016 at 6:30 p.m.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
No admission fee!
1. Board Updates - Board members share important updates and reminders regarding UIFN business.
2. Announcements - members and guests share upcoming projects, shows, seminars, etc.
3. Guest Speakers: Carol Maxwell of Saratoga Film Forum
Saratoga Film Forum is a local, non-profit community organization dedicated to bringing independent film to Saratoga Springs. Saratoga Film Forum is volunteer run and operated organization since 1983. Their creative focus is on screening independent films, documentaries, and foreign films that are generally not available from multiplex theaters. They host many curated events that include speakers, especially with foreign and documentary films. As the film business is changing, so is Saratoga Film Forum. Saratoga Film Forum is developing new subscription programming for adults and youth and are forging new ties with local filmmakers.
Carol Maxwell is Board President for Saratoga Film Forum. In addition to the Film Forum, she is CEO of a local tech start-up. She has been a film lover since the age of 10. Carol's husband is an erstwhile screenwriter. She lives in Saratoga Springs.
4. Network Break - Bring your business cards and enjoy networking and catching up. The network break will now be longer!
5. Video Submissions
Upstate Independents meets the first Tuesday of every month at The Linda: WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio, 339 Central Avenue, Albany, NY from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.Click here to view the Google map and get directions. It is a great opportunity to network with others who are interested in all aspects of film and television production.
Check out the best independent film and media resource in Upstate New York. For more information, e-mail us at info@ui-fn.com
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
No admission fee!
1. Board Updates - Board members share important updates and reminders regarding UIFN business.
2. Announcements - members and guests share upcoming projects, shows, seminars, etc.
3. Guest Speakers: Carol Maxwell of Saratoga Film Forum
Saratoga Film Forum is a local, non-profit community organization dedicated to bringing independent film to Saratoga Springs. Saratoga Film Forum is volunteer run and operated organization since 1983. Their creative focus is on screening independent films, documentaries, and foreign films that are generally not available from multiplex theaters. They host many curated events that include speakers, especially with foreign and documentary films. As the film business is changing, so is Saratoga Film Forum. Saratoga Film Forum is developing new subscription programming for adults and youth and are forging new ties with local filmmakers.
Carol Maxwell is Board President for Saratoga Film Forum. In addition to the Film Forum, she is CEO of a local tech start-up. She has been a film lover since the age of 10. Carol's husband is an erstwhile screenwriter. She lives in Saratoga Springs.
4. Network Break - Bring your business cards and enjoy networking and catching up. The network break will now be longer!
5. Video Submissions
- This summer Mike Camoin, began mentoring the boy in his neighborhood. Thatcher Boswell-Penc began making a series of short films on his iPhone, many with violent special fx, well before his 12th birthday. Camoin encouraged the budding filmmaker to broaden the themes of his work which expanded to include comedic undertones and enlisted the participation of other kids in the neighborhood. Thatcher's sister, Amelia, then started making short films on her iPhone. Thatcher formed TBP Productions and has completed such works as The Real Americans, a 5 part series, Crap News, and is now casting for his next short Bite Marks. Other kids who appear in their works are thrilled to be part of a brief Q&A.
- Amelia Boswell-Penc and Isabelle Camoin will share two music videos:
- Once a Year Day - Featuring Isabelle Camoin, Jacob Camoin, Thatcher Boswell-Penc and Amelia Boswell-Penc - Duration: 1:35
- Hard knock life - Featuring Amelia Boswell-Penc and Isabelle Camoin - Duration: 1:52
- Thatcher Boswell-Penc will share his shorts:
- Real Americans - Made and Directed by Thatcher Boswell-Penc, Featuring Jacob Camoin, Thatcher Boswell-Penc and Isabelle Camoin - Duration: 1:19
- Star Wars - Made by Thatcher Boswell-Penc Duration: approx 3:00
- Long time member Christopher Schiller will share his trailer for KEY TRANSITIONS, a short film exploring the universal experience of how unexpected loss can split the survivors in two, both clinging onto the world that can no longer be, and coming to terms with the life they now have to live.
- The UI group in particular might be interested in the origin story of the piece. It was written as a dramatic vehicle for the interplay between Yvonne Perry and David Bunce who have been spectacular performers in all manner of productions through the years we are familiar with but who had never been seen on screen in scenes together. This project provided the opportunity to gather the rest of its small cast of John Romeo, Leigh Strimbeck and Rich Lounello into the mix and watch great performers create the magic in front of the camera. A camera guided by a creative wunderkind himself Shawn Schaffer and his stellar, small crew and the best group of professionals filling all the key positions. Duration: 1:30
Upstate Independents meets the first Tuesday of every month at The Linda: WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio, 339 Central Avenue, Albany, NY from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.Click here to view the Google map and get directions. It is a great opportunity to network with others who are interested in all aspects of film and television production.
Check out the best independent film and media resource in Upstate New York. For more information, e-mail us at info@ui-fn.com
UIFN February 2016 Meeting Agenda - January 26, 2016
Meeting date: February 2nd 2016 at 6:30 p.m.
No admission fee!
1. Board Updates - Board members share important updates and reminders regarding UIFN business.
2. Announcements - members and guests share upcoming projects, shows, seminars, etc.
3. Guest Speakers(s): Founder of Youth FX Bhawin Suchak along with program assistants Darian Henry and David Easton
Youth FX is an intensive hands-on program designed to introduce young people aged 14-19 to the technical and creative aspects of digital film making by offering a thorough overview of the production process from script to screen.
Focusing on visual storytelling, artistic expression and performance, participants create digital video projects in various genres, including documentary, narrative short fiction and public service announcements. Youth FX participants work with experienced media instructors, filmmakers and artists to learn the various aspects of digital video production such as cinematography, editing, sound, and lighting.
Youth FX primarily works with young people who reside in the South End, Arbor Hill and West Hill neighborhoods of Albany, NY, areas that have been historically under served and in need of meaningful opportunities for training and engagement in new digital media technology. The skills they are learning not only enables them to be more creative and express their ideas, but they are also valuable skills that are in high demand in today’s technology based world. Youth FX participants engage in their communities by creating documentary and short fiction films that reflect their understanding and vision of the world around them. For some our program is a fun way to be creative with their peers, and for others it is an introduction and immersion into a potential career path.
Bhawin Suchak Bio:
Bhawin Suchak is a filmmaker, educator and digital media producer who works with emerging technologies as tools to promote expression, communication, and connection. He has directed two award-winning feature length documentaries: Free To Learn (2004) and The Throwaways (2014). Bhawin is the founder and program director of Youth FX, a summer filmmaking program for teens, and has been a media arts teacher at The Albany Free School for 15 years. The Throwaways recently completed an extensive film festival run screening at 15 festivals and wining best documentary at the 2014 Long Beach Indie and the 2014 Harlem International Film Festival. Bhawin is currently in pre-production on his third feature documentary titled Outta The Muck.
4. Network Break - Bring your business cards and enjoy networking and catching up.
5. Video Submissions
Where we’re located:
Upstate Independents meets the first Tuesday of every month at The Linda: WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio, 339 Central Avenue, Albany, NY from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Click here to view the Google map and get directions. It is a great opportunity to network with others who are interested in all aspects of film and television production.
Check out the best independent film and media resource in Upstate New York. For more information, e-mail us at info@ui-fn.com.
No admission fee!
1. Board Updates - Board members share important updates and reminders regarding UIFN business.
2. Announcements - members and guests share upcoming projects, shows, seminars, etc.
3. Guest Speakers(s): Founder of Youth FX Bhawin Suchak along with program assistants Darian Henry and David Easton
Youth FX is an intensive hands-on program designed to introduce young people aged 14-19 to the technical and creative aspects of digital film making by offering a thorough overview of the production process from script to screen.
Focusing on visual storytelling, artistic expression and performance, participants create digital video projects in various genres, including documentary, narrative short fiction and public service announcements. Youth FX participants work with experienced media instructors, filmmakers and artists to learn the various aspects of digital video production such as cinematography, editing, sound, and lighting.
Youth FX primarily works with young people who reside in the South End, Arbor Hill and West Hill neighborhoods of Albany, NY, areas that have been historically under served and in need of meaningful opportunities for training and engagement in new digital media technology. The skills they are learning not only enables them to be more creative and express their ideas, but they are also valuable skills that are in high demand in today’s technology based world. Youth FX participants engage in their communities by creating documentary and short fiction films that reflect their understanding and vision of the world around them. For some our program is a fun way to be creative with their peers, and for others it is an introduction and immersion into a potential career path.
Bhawin Suchak Bio:
Bhawin Suchak is a filmmaker, educator and digital media producer who works with emerging technologies as tools to promote expression, communication, and connection. He has directed two award-winning feature length documentaries: Free To Learn (2004) and The Throwaways (2014). Bhawin is the founder and program director of Youth FX, a summer filmmaking program for teens, and has been a media arts teacher at The Albany Free School for 15 years. The Throwaways recently completed an extensive film festival run screening at 15 festivals and wining best documentary at the 2014 Long Beach Indie and the 2014 Harlem International Film Festival. Bhawin is currently in pre-production on his third feature documentary titled Outta The Muck.
4. Network Break - Bring your business cards and enjoy networking and catching up.
5. Video Submissions
- Michael Kazlo II, President/CEO of Archangel Productions LLC, will share a rough cut of his recent film "Dr. Acid Face" (approx. 5 mins)
- Jon Cring will share his entry into the International 48 Hour Film Festival "Resistence" (approx. 7 mins)
Where we’re located:
Upstate Independents meets the first Tuesday of every month at The Linda: WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio, 339 Central Avenue, Albany, NY from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Click here to view the Google map and get directions. It is a great opportunity to network with others who are interested in all aspects of film and television production.
Check out the best independent film and media resource in Upstate New York. For more information, e-mail us at info@ui-fn.com.
February 2016
UIFN March 2016 Meeting Agenda - February 24, 2016
Meeting date: Tuesday, March 1st, 2016 at 6:30 pm
No admission fee!
1. Board Updates - Board members share important updates and reminders regarding UIFN business.
2. Announcements - members and guests share upcoming projects, shows, seminars, etc. Please keep all announcements brief.
3. Guest Speaker(s) - COLOR GRADING 101 with Christopher Schiller
You may know Christopher Schiller from at least one of the many hats he wears in our filmmaking community. But he's put on a new one of late, that of owner of the production company britida, llc (pronounced “Bright Idea”.) The new entity is a full service production company working on narrative and documentary fare in all aspects of production from pre- through production, post and beyond. Besides performing all of these services for its own productions, like the recently completed and now competing in film festivals short, Key Transitions, britida is available for assisting in any element a filmmaker may need, from script consulting or screenwriting, producing, directing or cinematography, or editing or, most pertinent to this presentation, color grading.
As much as a score is necessary to guide and change the emotion of a film, color grading is key to setting the right tone. It is a subtle art, but, like so many other elements of filmmaking, it can be sorely missed when not done correctly, done poorly or left to chance. Color grading is much more than mere color correcting (fixing it in post.) And it is not all smoke and mirrors, some hocus pokus done by a magician practicing arcane and unfathomable arts. It's a complex process sure, with a steep learning curve. But, when done well it can guide the audience's attention or distract it, telegraph a mood change or enhance a performance. It is best used when planned for and integrated into a full production process. At it's best it can even hide elements of an otherwise perfect take, making it better than what was actually captured on set. This presentation will hopefully give the curious filmmaker a very brief exposure to the possibilities of what adding color grading to your arsenal can help you achieve your goals of creating a masterpiece.
4. Network Break - Bring your business cards and enjoy networking and catching up.
5. Video Submission - Patrick Stephenson will share his recent film Ice Test with Olga N. Bogdanova" (approx. 5:30 mins)
No admission fee!
1. Board Updates - Board members share important updates and reminders regarding UIFN business.
2. Announcements - members and guests share upcoming projects, shows, seminars, etc. Please keep all announcements brief.
3. Guest Speaker(s) - COLOR GRADING 101 with Christopher Schiller
You may know Christopher Schiller from at least one of the many hats he wears in our filmmaking community. But he's put on a new one of late, that of owner of the production company britida, llc (pronounced “Bright Idea”.) The new entity is a full service production company working on narrative and documentary fare in all aspects of production from pre- through production, post and beyond. Besides performing all of these services for its own productions, like the recently completed and now competing in film festivals short, Key Transitions, britida is available for assisting in any element a filmmaker may need, from script consulting or screenwriting, producing, directing or cinematography, or editing or, most pertinent to this presentation, color grading.
As much as a score is necessary to guide and change the emotion of a film, color grading is key to setting the right tone. It is a subtle art, but, like so many other elements of filmmaking, it can be sorely missed when not done correctly, done poorly or left to chance. Color grading is much more than mere color correcting (fixing it in post.) And it is not all smoke and mirrors, some hocus pokus done by a magician practicing arcane and unfathomable arts. It's a complex process sure, with a steep learning curve. But, when done well it can guide the audience's attention or distract it, telegraph a mood change or enhance a performance. It is best used when planned for and integrated into a full production process. At it's best it can even hide elements of an otherwise perfect take, making it better than what was actually captured on set. This presentation will hopefully give the curious filmmaker a very brief exposure to the possibilities of what adding color grading to your arsenal can help you achieve your goals of creating a masterpiece.
4. Network Break - Bring your business cards and enjoy networking and catching up.
5. Video Submission - Patrick Stephenson will share his recent film Ice Test with Olga N. Bogdanova" (approx. 5:30 mins)
April 2016 Agenda
Meeting date: Tuesday, April 5th, 2016 at 6:30 pm!!
No admission fee!
I. Board Updates - Board members share important updates and reminders regarding UIFN business.
II. Announcements - members and guests share upcoming projects, shows, seminars, etc. Please keep all announcements brief.
III. Guest Speaker - Johnny Ray
Bring your resume for a chance to be on set and enjoy actor Johnny Ray discuss the film "Murder on the Mountain" currently set to begin production in May 2016 with Filmmaker/Writer/Producer/Director - Lori Bailey and Co-producer Joel Plue!!
Check out the link to the PBS segment for more on the film!!
http://youtu.be/tNacnv5PRkA
Johnny Ray
Johnny Ray has a 40 year acting career, literally around the globe on stage, screen, industrials, commercials, and radio advertisements. He is a retired veteran of the United States Air Force and currently can be heard as an on-air personality on 101.3FM (The Jockey). He has played comedic and musical roles, and he is looking forward to the challenge of playing one of the more notorious serial killers in New York State history.
=====================================
Joel Plue
Joel is a Producer/Writer whose work includes Silent But Deadly, starring Jason Mewes, William Sadler and Jordan Prentice; as well as Mineville, starring Paul Sorvino, William Sadler and ABC's Nick Wechsler. Joel is the Executive Producer of "South of Sanity" the worlds first non-documentary based horror film shot entirely on location in Antarctica. Joel has appeared on several National Television shows such as MTV's TRL, Nick News, Hardcopy and Talk Soup. In 2012, Joel wrote the book "Jacob and the Gnome" which was published and released by Gypsy Shadow Publishing. Later in 2014 Joel Co-wrote the story "The Journey Home" with Lori Kelly which received publication and release in the same year.
=====================================
Lori Kelly-Bailey Writer / Producer / Director
Lori began her career in stand-up comedy and sitcom writing in 1996 under the direction of Steven Rosenfield, Director of the American Comedy Institute. Lori has written many routines for her son, Joel Plue; an actor, writer and comic. These routines have been well received in many high end venues across the United States, including Caroline’s Comedy Club, and Catch a Rising star. Many of these routines were used in performances for fund raising, and awareness campaigns such as; Comic Relief, The Arthritis Foundation and TRIO.
Lori studied screenplay writing and technique with Dana Lauren-Ramos, an accomplished writer and graduate of the USC Masters and Professional Writing Program. She has also studied under Richard Krevolin, a graduate of Yale University and a Professor of Screen Writing at the University of Southern California.
Lori’s first screenplay entitled HEARTACHE, which she also co-produced and co-directed is a thirty minute family drama. The story is about a young boy in need of a heart transplant, and how he ultimately receives one from his lifelong television hero. The funds from the sale of this DVD were donated to the Transplant Recipient Organization. Her second screenplay, which she also produced, and directed is a feature length drama entitled Mineville. Mineville is a rather dark period piece which looks at the rise and fall of the Iron Ore Mining Industry in the United States, and the oppression of the immigrants who worked in the underground mines. Mineville stars: Paul Sorvino, William Sadler, Nick Wechsler, Cuyle Carvin and Philip Casnoff. Mineville is available on Amazon.com.
Lori also co-wrote, and sold a horror / comedy script entitled; SILENT BUT DEADLY, which was filmed, and released worldwide in 2011. Silent but Deadly stars; William Sadler, Jordan Prentice and Jason Mewes. She has recently co-authored a novel entitled; The Journey Home, which is available worldwide through Barnes & Noble.
Additional Credits for Lori Kelly (Bailey) can be found on IMDB.com
IV. Network Break - Bring your business cards and enjoy networking and catching up.
V. Video Submission
Jess Petrequin will share his 2015 update of "JP News" (approx. 10 mins)
Where we’re located:
Upstate Independent Filmmakers Network meets the first Tuesday of every month at The Linda: WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio, 339 Central Avenue, Albany, NY from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. It is a great opportunity to network with others who are interested in all aspects of film and television production.
Check out the best independent film and media resource in Upstate New York. Visit our website at http://www.ui-fn.com. For more information, e-mail us at info@ui-fn.com.
No admission fee!
I. Board Updates - Board members share important updates and reminders regarding UIFN business.
II. Announcements - members and guests share upcoming projects, shows, seminars, etc. Please keep all announcements brief.
III. Guest Speaker - Johnny Ray
Bring your resume for a chance to be on set and enjoy actor Johnny Ray discuss the film "Murder on the Mountain" currently set to begin production in May 2016 with Filmmaker/Writer/Producer/Director - Lori Bailey and Co-producer Joel Plue!!
Check out the link to the PBS segment for more on the film!!
http://youtu.be/tNacnv5PRkA
Johnny Ray
Johnny Ray has a 40 year acting career, literally around the globe on stage, screen, industrials, commercials, and radio advertisements. He is a retired veteran of the United States Air Force and currently can be heard as an on-air personality on 101.3FM (The Jockey). He has played comedic and musical roles, and he is looking forward to the challenge of playing one of the more notorious serial killers in New York State history.
=====================================
Joel Plue
Joel is a Producer/Writer whose work includes Silent But Deadly, starring Jason Mewes, William Sadler and Jordan Prentice; as well as Mineville, starring Paul Sorvino, William Sadler and ABC's Nick Wechsler. Joel is the Executive Producer of "South of Sanity" the worlds first non-documentary based horror film shot entirely on location in Antarctica. Joel has appeared on several National Television shows such as MTV's TRL, Nick News, Hardcopy and Talk Soup. In 2012, Joel wrote the book "Jacob and the Gnome" which was published and released by Gypsy Shadow Publishing. Later in 2014 Joel Co-wrote the story "The Journey Home" with Lori Kelly which received publication and release in the same year.
=====================================
Lori Kelly-Bailey Writer / Producer / Director
Lori began her career in stand-up comedy and sitcom writing in 1996 under the direction of Steven Rosenfield, Director of the American Comedy Institute. Lori has written many routines for her son, Joel Plue; an actor, writer and comic. These routines have been well received in many high end venues across the United States, including Caroline’s Comedy Club, and Catch a Rising star. Many of these routines were used in performances for fund raising, and awareness campaigns such as; Comic Relief, The Arthritis Foundation and TRIO.
Lori studied screenplay writing and technique with Dana Lauren-Ramos, an accomplished writer and graduate of the USC Masters and Professional Writing Program. She has also studied under Richard Krevolin, a graduate of Yale University and a Professor of Screen Writing at the University of Southern California.
Lori’s first screenplay entitled HEARTACHE, which she also co-produced and co-directed is a thirty minute family drama. The story is about a young boy in need of a heart transplant, and how he ultimately receives one from his lifelong television hero. The funds from the sale of this DVD were donated to the Transplant Recipient Organization. Her second screenplay, which she also produced, and directed is a feature length drama entitled Mineville. Mineville is a rather dark period piece which looks at the rise and fall of the Iron Ore Mining Industry in the United States, and the oppression of the immigrants who worked in the underground mines. Mineville stars: Paul Sorvino, William Sadler, Nick Wechsler, Cuyle Carvin and Philip Casnoff. Mineville is available on Amazon.com.
Lori also co-wrote, and sold a horror / comedy script entitled; SILENT BUT DEADLY, which was filmed, and released worldwide in 2011. Silent but Deadly stars; William Sadler, Jordan Prentice and Jason Mewes. She has recently co-authored a novel entitled; The Journey Home, which is available worldwide through Barnes & Noble.
Additional Credits for Lori Kelly (Bailey) can be found on IMDB.com
IV. Network Break - Bring your business cards and enjoy networking and catching up.
V. Video Submission
Jess Petrequin will share his 2015 update of "JP News" (approx. 10 mins)
Where we’re located:
Upstate Independent Filmmakers Network meets the first Tuesday of every month at The Linda: WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio, 339 Central Avenue, Albany, NY from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. It is a great opportunity to network with others who are interested in all aspects of film and television production.
Check out the best independent film and media resource in Upstate New York. Visit our website at http://www.ui-fn.com. For more information, e-mail us at info@ui-fn.com.
May 2016 Agenda
Meeting date: Tuesday, May 3rd, 2016 at 6:30pm!!
No admission fee!
I. Board Updates - Board members share important updates and reminders regarding UIFN business.
II. Announcements - members and guests share upcoming projects, shows, seminars, etc. Please keep all announcements brief.
III. Guest Speakers - Caitlin Stedman and Veronica Medina-Matzner of Saratoga Springs International Film Festival!!
Caitlin Stedman has owned Snarky Aardvark Films, LLC a production company based in Queensbury, New York since leaving Vancouver Film School in 2012. She has written and directed numerous short films, documentaries and promotional videos in Vancouver BC, Burlington VT, and various small towns in Upstate New York. For each project, Caitlin researched, found sources, raised funds, scouted locations, held casting calls, managed schedules, oversaw filming and post-production, in addition to breaking down scripts to plan and edit scenes. With the initial guidance of a lawyer, Caitlin has drafted thorough legal documents to secure locations, actors, sponsors, exhibitors, volunteers and freelance jobs. She creates and manages social media, email, spreadsheets and websites for SaratogaSIFF and Snarky Aardvark Films, LLC.
She has organized successful film screenings at The Lower Adirondack Regional Arts Council, The Albany Public Library and The Shirt Factory Arts & Healing Center. Caitlin has served on two grant panels for distribution of funds via NYSCA. She has submitted to many film festivals and is familiar with the process and set-up, as well as, interning for a few weeks with The Austin Film Festival in Texas.
Caitlin is thrilled to bring a film festival to Downtown Saratoga Springs! She says "Saratoga Springs is unique because it simultaneously feels like a comfortable hometown and a posh destination." She currently works in Visitor Services at The Hyde Collection in Glens Falls, NY.
IV. Network Break - Bring your business cards and enjoy networking and catching up.
==================================
Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Veronica Medina-Matzner moved to the US in late 2004, after completing her BA in Film and Video in Brazil, where she quickly got involved with the independent film production and film festivals scene in Washington, DC. In 2008 she moved to New York City where she earned a Graduate Certificate in Documentary Studies and an MA in Media Studies from The New School. While in New York, she also pursued various internship opportunities with film companies and organizations such as CineReach and Film Movement among others.
After graduating, Veronica moved to France where, once again, she got involved with film festivals, working as a consultant for the Paris Project, a former initiative by the Festival Paris Cinema. After living in some exciting places around the world, Veronica returned to her hometown of Rio where she started Inverno Filmes - a production company that developed a variety of video products such as programs for cable tv channels, as well as commercial and institutional videos.
Veronica has recently moved back to the US and is extremely excited to be a part of the Saratoga Springs International Film Festival launch in 2016. She is truly passionate about film festivals, and since her return Veronica has volunteered for film festivals like Woodstock and Sundance.
She lives in Albany with her husband and a newly adopted kitten.
For more information about Saratoga Springs International Film Festival visit www.saratogasiff.com.
V. Video Submission
Micah Khan will share his latest music video "Red Shift - Around the Sun" (approx. 3:30 mins).
No admission fee!
I. Board Updates - Board members share important updates and reminders regarding UIFN business.
II. Announcements - members and guests share upcoming projects, shows, seminars, etc. Please keep all announcements brief.
III. Guest Speakers - Caitlin Stedman and Veronica Medina-Matzner of Saratoga Springs International Film Festival!!
Caitlin Stedman has owned Snarky Aardvark Films, LLC a production company based in Queensbury, New York since leaving Vancouver Film School in 2012. She has written and directed numerous short films, documentaries and promotional videos in Vancouver BC, Burlington VT, and various small towns in Upstate New York. For each project, Caitlin researched, found sources, raised funds, scouted locations, held casting calls, managed schedules, oversaw filming and post-production, in addition to breaking down scripts to plan and edit scenes. With the initial guidance of a lawyer, Caitlin has drafted thorough legal documents to secure locations, actors, sponsors, exhibitors, volunteers and freelance jobs. She creates and manages social media, email, spreadsheets and websites for SaratogaSIFF and Snarky Aardvark Films, LLC.
She has organized successful film screenings at The Lower Adirondack Regional Arts Council, The Albany Public Library and The Shirt Factory Arts & Healing Center. Caitlin has served on two grant panels for distribution of funds via NYSCA. She has submitted to many film festivals and is familiar with the process and set-up, as well as, interning for a few weeks with The Austin Film Festival in Texas.
Caitlin is thrilled to bring a film festival to Downtown Saratoga Springs! She says "Saratoga Springs is unique because it simultaneously feels like a comfortable hometown and a posh destination." She currently works in Visitor Services at The Hyde Collection in Glens Falls, NY.
IV. Network Break - Bring your business cards and enjoy networking and catching up.
==================================
Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Veronica Medina-Matzner moved to the US in late 2004, after completing her BA in Film and Video in Brazil, where she quickly got involved with the independent film production and film festivals scene in Washington, DC. In 2008 she moved to New York City where she earned a Graduate Certificate in Documentary Studies and an MA in Media Studies from The New School. While in New York, she also pursued various internship opportunities with film companies and organizations such as CineReach and Film Movement among others.
After graduating, Veronica moved to France where, once again, she got involved with film festivals, working as a consultant for the Paris Project, a former initiative by the Festival Paris Cinema. After living in some exciting places around the world, Veronica returned to her hometown of Rio where she started Inverno Filmes - a production company that developed a variety of video products such as programs for cable tv channels, as well as commercial and institutional videos.
Veronica has recently moved back to the US and is extremely excited to be a part of the Saratoga Springs International Film Festival launch in 2016. She is truly passionate about film festivals, and since her return Veronica has volunteered for film festivals like Woodstock and Sundance.
She lives in Albany with her husband and a newly adopted kitten.
For more information about Saratoga Springs International Film Festival visit www.saratogasiff.com.
V. Video Submission
Micah Khan will share his latest music video "Red Shift - Around the Sun" (approx. 3:30 mins).
June 2016 Agenda
Meeting date: Tuesday, June 7th, 2016 at 6:30 pm!!
No admission fee!
I. Board Updates - Board members share important updates and reminders regarding UIFN business.
II. Announcements - members and guests share upcoming projects, shows, seminars, etc. Please keep all announcements brief.
III. Guest Speaker - Nicole Coady of UPWIFT
Nicole Coady was raised in Manhattan's Greenwich Village and went on to receive her Bachelor of Arts from Vassar College in Film. Currently, she resides with her family in upstate, NY.
Her work has been published in various magazines, including a monthly column in Gotham and a daily column online in Cosmogirl. She has also written for MTV and her screenplays have been produced by New Line Cinema and 20th Century Fox. In addition, she authored two video games featuring The Bratz line of dolls for MGA.
Writing under the pen name, Lydia Storm, her debut romantic suspense novel, Moonlight on Diamonds, published by The Wild Rose Press, is a Romance Writers of America's "Heart of the West" award winner. Her second novel, Cleopatra's Secret: Keepers of the Light, hit Kindle Best Seller status, reaching #8 on Amazon's Fantasy/Romance list and was hailed as "A Sensual Delight" by USA Today.
Her feature screenplay, In A Mirror Darkly, has just been aquired by producer Dan L. Fried for production in 2017 and her upcoming feature film, The Twelve Dancing Princesses, is currently in preproduction.
IV. Network Break - Bring your business cards and enjoy networking and catching up.
V. Video Submissions
Tom Henderson will share a trailer for his documentary "Ice Eagles" (approx. 3.30 mins).
John Holser will share a scene analysis video "Into the Mind of Francis Ford Coppola - Four questions that make the Killing Sollozzo scene brilliant?" (approx. 10 mins).
No admission fee!
I. Board Updates - Board members share important updates and reminders regarding UIFN business.
II. Announcements - members and guests share upcoming projects, shows, seminars, etc. Please keep all announcements brief.
III. Guest Speaker - Nicole Coady of UPWIFT
Nicole Coady was raised in Manhattan's Greenwich Village and went on to receive her Bachelor of Arts from Vassar College in Film. Currently, she resides with her family in upstate, NY.
Her work has been published in various magazines, including a monthly column in Gotham and a daily column online in Cosmogirl. She has also written for MTV and her screenplays have been produced by New Line Cinema and 20th Century Fox. In addition, she authored two video games featuring The Bratz line of dolls for MGA.
Writing under the pen name, Lydia Storm, her debut romantic suspense novel, Moonlight on Diamonds, published by The Wild Rose Press, is a Romance Writers of America's "Heart of the West" award winner. Her second novel, Cleopatra's Secret: Keepers of the Light, hit Kindle Best Seller status, reaching #8 on Amazon's Fantasy/Romance list and was hailed as "A Sensual Delight" by USA Today.
Her feature screenplay, In A Mirror Darkly, has just been aquired by producer Dan L. Fried for production in 2017 and her upcoming feature film, The Twelve Dancing Princesses, is currently in preproduction.
IV. Network Break - Bring your business cards and enjoy networking and catching up.
V. Video Submissions
Tom Henderson will share a trailer for his documentary "Ice Eagles" (approx. 3.30 mins).
John Holser will share a scene analysis video "Into the Mind of Francis Ford Coppola - Four questions that make the Killing Sollozzo scene brilliant?" (approx. 10 mins).
July 2016 Agenda
Meeting date: Tuesday, July 5th, 2016 at 6:30 pm
No admission fee!
I. Board Updates - Board members share important updates and reminders regarding UIFN business.
II. Announcements - members and guests share upcoming projects, shows, seminars, etc. Please keep all announcements brief.
III. Guest Speaker - John Holser of Digital Film Farm will present:
The Five Most Important and Most Overlooked Steps to a Successful Film or Video Project.
John had this to say about his presentation! Come out for the discussion!
"In this presentation I’m going to share proven steps to a game-plan for attracting the best actors, experienced crew, great locations and even investors to your project.
I know this sounds to good to be true, but it’s not. I’ve used these exact steps while producing hundreds of well funded projects over the last twenty five years.
I’ve shared this strategy with numerous filmmakers and always get the same “I never thought of it that way” response. They usually follow up with a version of “it makes perfect sense."
Regardless of what level the filmmaker or video producer you are, the process always starts with asking "What is a Successful Film or Video Project?”
Of course "what success is" is different for everyone. But, what stays consistent is the "setup structure” and this can be broken into the five important steps I’ll cover in this presentation.
The strategies I’ll share are not powerful because they’re newly discovered. They are powerful because they are proven and make perfect sense when seen in context.
You will have new discoveries and will walk away empowered to set your next project up for success!
"Creativity, as has been said, consists largely of rearranging what we know in order to find out what we do not know. Hence, to think creatively, we must be able to look afresh at what we normally take for granted."
— George Kneller" John Holser has made his living directing television and film productions for over twenty five years. He’s won multiple Telly, Nori and Addy awards. Over his career, John has directed, interviewed and worked along side of Jimmy Fallon, Jessie Eisenberg, Sean Astin, John Mellencamp and more.
John now splits his time working as both a freelance director and an international film production coach. You can read John’s blogs at digitalfilmfarmworkshops.com or watch numerous free tutorials on his Digital Film Farm, YouTube channel.
John responds to all emails and does his best to answer any film or video production question.
He can be reached at john@digitalfilmfarmworkshops.com - please feel free to say hi.
IV. Network Break - Bring your business cards and enjoy networking and catching up.
V. Video Submissions
Jess Petrequin will share his short film "Mr. Higgins has a Flashback" (approx. 1 min).
Patrick Stephenson will share his short film "Amanda & Junior" (approx. 5 mins).
No admission fee!
I. Board Updates - Board members share important updates and reminders regarding UIFN business.
II. Announcements - members and guests share upcoming projects, shows, seminars, etc. Please keep all announcements brief.
III. Guest Speaker - John Holser of Digital Film Farm will present:
The Five Most Important and Most Overlooked Steps to a Successful Film or Video Project.
John had this to say about his presentation! Come out for the discussion!
"In this presentation I’m going to share proven steps to a game-plan for attracting the best actors, experienced crew, great locations and even investors to your project.
I know this sounds to good to be true, but it’s not. I’ve used these exact steps while producing hundreds of well funded projects over the last twenty five years.
I’ve shared this strategy with numerous filmmakers and always get the same “I never thought of it that way” response. They usually follow up with a version of “it makes perfect sense."
Regardless of what level the filmmaker or video producer you are, the process always starts with asking "What is a Successful Film or Video Project?”
Of course "what success is" is different for everyone. But, what stays consistent is the "setup structure” and this can be broken into the five important steps I’ll cover in this presentation.
The strategies I’ll share are not powerful because they’re newly discovered. They are powerful because they are proven and make perfect sense when seen in context.
You will have new discoveries and will walk away empowered to set your next project up for success!
"Creativity, as has been said, consists largely of rearranging what we know in order to find out what we do not know. Hence, to think creatively, we must be able to look afresh at what we normally take for granted."
— George Kneller" John Holser has made his living directing television and film productions for over twenty five years. He’s won multiple Telly, Nori and Addy awards. Over his career, John has directed, interviewed and worked along side of Jimmy Fallon, Jessie Eisenberg, Sean Astin, John Mellencamp and more.
John now splits his time working as both a freelance director and an international film production coach. You can read John’s blogs at digitalfilmfarmworkshops.com or watch numerous free tutorials on his Digital Film Farm, YouTube channel.
John responds to all emails and does his best to answer any film or video production question.
He can be reached at john@digitalfilmfarmworkshops.com - please feel free to say hi.
IV. Network Break - Bring your business cards and enjoy networking and catching up.
V. Video Submissions
Jess Petrequin will share his short film "Mr. Higgins has a Flashback" (approx. 1 min).
Patrick Stephenson will share his short film "Amanda & Junior" (approx. 5 mins).
August 2016 Agenda
Meeting date: August 2, 2016 at 6:30 pm
No admission fee!
I. Board Updates - Board members share important updates and reminders regarding UIFN business.
II. Announcements - members and guests share upcoming projects, shows, seminars, etc. Please keep all announcements brief.
III. Program
Tom Mercer is a veteran independent filmmaker and chair of the UIFN membership committee. His program topic will be about enhancing networking capacity among our members. UIFN is an organization of filmmakers of various levels of experience. We each have knowledge skills and abilities to share with our fellow members and we all have growing edges in our crafts that we need to hone. How can we, as an organization, form better connections between those wanting to learn and those who have knowledge? Tom will present some possibilities for new networking systems UIFN might offer and gather feedback from the members.
IV. Networking session
There will be an extended networking session with some group process techniques.
V. Video Submissions (No one has submitted as of this date)
No admission fee!
I. Board Updates - Board members share important updates and reminders regarding UIFN business.
II. Announcements - members and guests share upcoming projects, shows, seminars, etc. Please keep all announcements brief.
III. Program
Tom Mercer is a veteran independent filmmaker and chair of the UIFN membership committee. His program topic will be about enhancing networking capacity among our members. UIFN is an organization of filmmakers of various levels of experience. We each have knowledge skills and abilities to share with our fellow members and we all have growing edges in our crafts that we need to hone. How can we, as an organization, form better connections between those wanting to learn and those who have knowledge? Tom will present some possibilities for new networking systems UIFN might offer and gather feedback from the members.
IV. Networking session
There will be an extended networking session with some group process techniques.
V. Video Submissions (No one has submitted as of this date)
September 2016 Agenda
Meeting date: Tuesday, September 6th, 2016 at 6:30 pm!!
No admission fee!
I. Board Updates - Board members share important updates and reminders regarding UIFN business.
II. Announcements - members and guests share upcoming projects, shows, seminars, etc. Please keep all announcements brief.
III. Guest Speaker - Cathy Taylor of The New School Center For Media:
Cathy came to The New School in 2007 and her incredible drive to organize and help was immediately recognized. Cathy is truly a dynamo with unwavering passion to help people and make things work. Her deep passion for people also extends into her outside life, where she is highly involved in many charitable organizations as a spokesperson and coordinator. In 2011 she was featured in an article by The New York Times for her work with the Sjögren’s Syndrome Foundation. On the entertainment side, Cathy is currently a producer for both the Miss California and Miss New York components of the Miss USA Pageant. Along with organizing and directing various businesses for more than two decades, Cathy has worked as a writer for a Kentucky-based magazine The Bluegrass Horseman.
The essence of Cathy Taylor however is her unwavering dedication to people and their success, and that is why she so exemplifies the true spirit of The New School.
IV. Network Break - Bring your business cards and enjoy networking and catching up.
V. Video Submissions
Patrick Stephenson will share a "New Music Video" (approx. 5 mins).
Lakota Ruby-Eck will share a music video "Anti-Fly" (approx. 3:13 mins).
No admission fee!
I. Board Updates - Board members share important updates and reminders regarding UIFN business.
II. Announcements - members and guests share upcoming projects, shows, seminars, etc. Please keep all announcements brief.
III. Guest Speaker - Cathy Taylor of The New School Center For Media:
Cathy came to The New School in 2007 and her incredible drive to organize and help was immediately recognized. Cathy is truly a dynamo with unwavering passion to help people and make things work. Her deep passion for people also extends into her outside life, where she is highly involved in many charitable organizations as a spokesperson and coordinator. In 2011 she was featured in an article by The New York Times for her work with the Sjögren’s Syndrome Foundation. On the entertainment side, Cathy is currently a producer for both the Miss California and Miss New York components of the Miss USA Pageant. Along with organizing and directing various businesses for more than two decades, Cathy has worked as a writer for a Kentucky-based magazine The Bluegrass Horseman.
The essence of Cathy Taylor however is her unwavering dedication to people and their success, and that is why she so exemplifies the true spirit of The New School.
IV. Network Break - Bring your business cards and enjoy networking and catching up.
V. Video Submissions
Patrick Stephenson will share a "New Music Video" (approx. 5 mins).
Lakota Ruby-Eck will share a music video "Anti-Fly" (approx. 3:13 mins).
October 2016 Agenda
Meeting date: Tuesday, October 4th, 2016 at 6:30 pm!!
No admission fee!
I. Board Updates - Board members share important updates and reminders regarding UIFN business.
II. Announcements - members and guests share upcoming projects, shows, seminars, etc. Please keep all announcements brief.
III. Guest Speaker - Juan Luis Lopez Fons of Emotivo Productions:
Juan Luis Lopez Fons is a Mexican video editor and director. After finishing his 4th semester of Chemical Engineering, Juan Luis quit college because of his love for film, theater and expression to pursue his filmmaking dream; he moved to New York City to study film directing at the New York Film Academy's One Year hands-on program. After graduating, Juan Luis worked in the Weinstein Company film "Under the Same Moon" in Mexico as personal assistant to the director and later worked in the locations department for the film "I am Legend" in NYC.
In 2008 Juan Luis worked as an editor of the Mexico non-violence documentary by director Mark Vicente titled "Encender el Corazón". The film is currently being screened in select cities in Mexico and just had it's first showing in Canada.
In 2013, Juan Luis directed the short "Conservatory Grounds, a Moment Before", an introductory scene that sets up the characters and emotions that would play out in his first feature film, "Upstate Grounds". "Upstate Grounds" was written by Juan Luis and is based on his early childhood experiences.
In 2014 Juan Luis started the production company "Emotivo Productions". The company's mission is to create promotional video vignettes for entrepreneurs, business owners, artists and athletes that showcase the person in front of the product or service. He calls this process "human marketing".
As of late, Juan Luis is continuing to grow Emotivo Productions and is also lead editor for the human potential, ethics and leadership company "Executive Success Programs". This company's headquarters are in Colonie, NY.
IV. Network Break - Bring your business cards and enjoy networking and catching up.
V. Video Submissions:
In anticipation for the World Premiere screening at the upcoming FilmColumbia Festival, Christopher Schiller will share his trailer for "Key Transitions" (approx. 90 secs.).
Michael Turner will share his short "Lock 7" (approx. 20 mins). Michael describes his short - "Lock 7 is a short film based on my short story, “What Goes Down Must Come Up.” It centers on a teacher with low self-esteem who feels like no one respects him including his family and students, so he decides to commit suicide by jumping off of a bridge. However, when he reaches the top of the bridge there is another man looking to do the same thing." - MT
November 2016
November 2016
Meeting date: Tuesday, November 1st., 2016 at 6:30 pm!!
No admission fee!
I. Board Updates - Board members share important updates and reminders regarding UIFN business.
II. Announcements - members and guests share upcoming projects, shows, seminars, etc. Please keep all announcements brief.
III. Actors/Actresses will share a monologue or scene. Guests are welcome to sign up at the door.
IV. Elections - Members will vote on open Board positions during the network break. Please see Tom Mercer's email for more details.
V. Network Break - Bring your business cards and enjoy networking and catching up.
VI. Video Submissions:
"The art of Barbering in Schenectady New York"
By: Thomas D Rorick And Jess Petrequin
Description : a peek at Schenectady's Wedgeway barber shop. Barbering put to music.
Running time: 2 minutes and 34 seconds
December 2016
Meeting date: Tuesday, December 6th, 2016 at 6:30 pm!!
No admission fee!
I. Board Updates - Board members share important updates and reminders regarding UIFN business.
II. Announcements - members and guests share upcoming projects, shows, seminars, etc. Please keep all announcements brief.
III. Guest Speaker: Andrew Balog
Andrew F. Balog is an upstate New York based movie distribution executive working in the direct to consumer distribution strategy space. As CEO and Founder of Logs Leisure Entertainment LLC and Founder of BalogDigital. He currently works with motion picture studios and content creators to develop strategies to source content, maximize distribution, grow audiences, build buzz and create community around each title via Grassroots Marketing.
IV. Network Break - Bring your business cards and enjoy networking and catching up.
VI. Video Submissions:
Steve O’Connor will share his trailer "Hell's Acres" (approx. 9 mins.)
Collaboration of Members 2016 projects edited by Jess Petrequin - Thank you Jess! (approx. 15 mins.)
