Business
Five Ways To Twitter
Twitter has quickly become the center of our social media lives, and for good reason. It is a extremely helpful tool, and fairly easy to use.
Although there are several different ways to twitter.
I highly recommend looking at them as a progression. Begin comfortably as a conversationalist, and continue onward to integrate your marketing message you are attempting to communicate. Salesmanship requires a certain amount of tact that you will adjust too after you have begun the conversation for a while. Obviously, there are a few potholes to remember, but now you have a simple roadmap to follow.
Six Ways To Start A Blog
There are several different types of blogs, and all it takes is a launching point. Start with these, and see where your mind wanders.
- Opinion Blog : When I look/remember this ____, I think we need to ____.
- Rant Blog : Enough!!! . . .
- Observational : I was talking to my friend the other day and we agreed ____.
- Philosophical : I would like to see our industry/career go in ____ direction.
- Community Engagement : I think that we should___. Your thoughts?
- Industrial Commentary: All this talk about Conan, I think that_____.
Obviously, the lines can bee blurred between them, but the point is to read your ramblings, edit into a purpose, and post for the benefit of your readers.. Remember practice makes perfect, and you may need to just begin and you will refine your blogs voice and purpose as you develop. Happy Blogging!
The Top 10 Most Watched Web Series, December 2009
Each month Mashable tracks the top ten web video series with partner Visible Measures, and this time they have good news for fans of web TV. December saw the top web series bounce back in popularity after a two-month slump. Actually, they did more than that. READ MORE.
Dear Corporate Bastards
It is best to begin by defining the intent or purpose of my cleverly coined title. I qualify “corporate” as those who are employed through a traditional distribution or network outlet who are in a position to sustain and strengthen creative independents. “Corporates” is something of a catchall phrase to create a caste or group. There are several more of these terms, but I don’t think I will justify any of them. Next, the seemingly hostile tone is to convey the frustration of these independents in communications with their corporate counterparts. Theses are vented frustrations from independent creators. I remember these frustrations, and do my bet not to do this to others. Pay it forward.
1. Respect : There is a certain amount of basic respect which is due to independents. Their courage to create content usually unfunded without secured distribution, and is deserving of the most basic of respect or courtesy. Often corporates assign a persons value directly to the quality or popularity of their project. Respect everyone, regardless. I remember the first year of Podcast & New Media Convention with the most colorful creatives I have ever met. Frankly, most were amateurs and very passionate, but not very talented or determined, and yet I respect them. You never know where you or they may be. Respect all.
2. Direction / Deliverables : Give independents a clear understanding of how you may utilize their talents if at all. It does not party any good to work under the assumption that there may be synergy or work together in the future if you KNOW there will be none. However if you do desire to see something different be specific. If there is a deadline or due date communicate that . Nothing worse to feel as if you failed a new corporate friend unintentionally.
3. Be Professional : Do your due diligence, and come prepared with any materials and even mental notes from any previous conversations. Chances are if you are meeting there were points of synergy and even some action steps that were to be made. Was that accomplished? Simply because you are busy does not justify it comes off as a disinterested suit, that may be wasting each others time.
4. Don’t Be Too Professional : Often corporates and independents differ not only in background and work flow, but also in personality. Do not come off as rigid or harsh. Don’t be that boss that you use to hate. Everyone wants to work with a professional, but not those few that feel the need to remind you that they are in control. No power plays, manipulations, or vague answers. Be simple, straightforward, and real.
5. Connect : Usually independent are looking to meaningfully connect with their corporate counterparts even if there is no business in it. Its as if the old High School “cliques” come into play. I have seen a few mixers that have done poorly due to the firm entrenchement of different cliques. Both sides of the aisle may learn to better network and connect if they stretched out of their comfort zone. Reach out, make a connection.
Conclusion : Understandably not all corporates are bastards. Most are excellent individuals, that I eventually am priveleged to call my friend. Even after a few rough starts. However, you may want to check yerself ever so often to ensure that you have not gradually become that which you fear, a corporate bastard.
Fix Studios in 2010
The foundation of entertainment is built upon the concept of the studio. Within its walls the magic of the filmmaker is created and distributed throughout the world. However the past five years or so have been meet with tremendous hurdles. There is trouble in paradise, and most of us generally avoid it. The economy seems to have intensified some of the its more immediate needs. However, nearly every facet of its business has changed from talent to advertisement. Studios must learn to adapt if they will continue to thrive, and here’s my two cents.
1. New Blood
There have been several corporate power struggles since tinsel town. This saber rattling has accommodating fresh young thought by way of Ben Silverman. Ben Silverman is credited with helming “The Office” into critical acclaim, and other notable accolades. His story is one of success, and continue scrutiny. NBC has grown steadily, and even taken a very forwarding thinking stance regarding new media and addendum content solely available through them. For example, “The Office” now offers original webisodes off their site with the same characters and writers. Excellently done. Others who have taken New Media by the horns is Michael Eisner. Who can forget this power player leaving Disney to begin Veoh, and investing into original content studios such as Vuguru, and even finding and funding great talent by way of Big Fantastic?
2. New Content
Networks are slow to adopt new forms of content to better reach their audiences. Recently, NBC has begun to create webseries surrounding their successful brands. “Hero’s”, “Office,” and “Scrubs” all offer content featuring the same talent pool that is bringing its mainstream content. Online audiences have readily adopted this content. Mash-ups are also extremely popular among key male demographics. Networks must be faster to adopt, and even to pioneer different content forms for their eager audiences.
3. New Revenue
Studios are very slow in not only recreating revenue models, which is understandable, but slow even to exploiting or nurturing existing ones. For example, syndication residuals were not considered a goldmine until Jerry Seinfield caused studios to stand up and take notice of the money he was entitled. Not to mention the Olympics revenue models where laughably disproportionate. Nearly half the viewers consumed the Olympics through the internet and yet internet sales were largely ignored. The studios need to be faster on the uptake.
For example, “Remote-less TV” has been a successful experiment conducted by Fox on Fringe. Essentially you charge a premium to less commercial advertisers and this sponsor receives less often yet still more prominent position. This causes the audience to have to sit through less commercials. Other studios are not losing this money, but have yet to act upon improving the user experience! Get it in gear!
4. Discover New Distribution Opportunities
Large conglomerations with a wide variety of distribution methods should consider restructuring their output to be more effective. Previously films fell into four separate budgeting structure or options, and now it has changed into two main genres to accommodate big blockbusters or independent films. This chasm is gradually widening over the recent years. Previously, as recently as 10 years ago, blockbusters were considered over 75 million. Now blockbuster can run up and over 150 million easily.
George Lucas shocked many as he decided not only a different format for his Star Wars sequel, but also decided to bring programming to Cartoon Network of all places. Previously I could see a Star Wars originals coming to Sci-Fi faster then to Cartoon Network. Despite it all it has done very well.
Steven Soderburg release BUBBLe over several different outlets on the same day. This was herald as a large risk, as it tempted to reinvent the distribution model outside of theatrical chains. Why buy a theater ticket for 8 dolllars when I can buy it the same day for $20?
5. Corporate Consolidation
Consolidation is in order. Due to economic difficulties, and dwindling profits corporations must consolidate or restructure to survive. This does not necessarilyily mean unemployements rather a reappropriation of funds and personale. New Line has succeeded since being folded into Warner Bros. Universal has done a very good job of this. Universal is currently the only studio I know of which has not only post a consecutive two year high profit surge, but also made better use of their smaller studios such as Lions Gate.
6. Conglomeration Conflicts
Studios typically belong to a conglomeration of corporations. For example, NBC is the distribution network whereas Universal is the production house, both of which are owned by General Electric (GE). Typically these facets of a large corporation find themselves overlapping in mission and vision and can quickly be working against one another. Inter-department conflicts arise much more frequently then most higher management would care to admit, but it doesn’t change the fact they are working against one another.
7. Reinvent Talent Contracts
During the 1940′s and 50′s MGM were producing excellent entertainment largely due to the fact that they held “More Stars then there were in heaven” contracts. Who could argue the fact? Actors such as Marx Brothers, Katherine Heburn, Judy Garland, Shirely Temple, all were found under one roof. Under contract for years not by picture. Essential MGM owned Fred Astarie & Ginger Rogers respectively and decided to pair them for over a dozen movies which are the icons of musicals. Is this “ownership of talent” unheard of in other arenas?
Promising corporate leadership are offered their salaries with incentives or bonuses for work well done obviously with the condition of solidarity and confidentiality during their term or involvement. Event Organization pay large sums to represent music artists live events for the entirety of their careers. Why not the same for big screen talent?
Studios must begin to become talent houses once again, just as MGM once did, and invest into actors careers from the inception. This will keep costs down, casts loyal, and the overall quality of films will have improved by the large stable of excellent actors. Ocean’s 11 is a rare example of a star studded cast which boggled the mind that all were involved. Lets have that again.
Conclusion
Obviously, studios are in for a rough season ahead, but there may be a few bright spots in the midst of it all. Challenge, and hardship make change all the more crucial and immediate. Desperate times, desperate measures. Studios rise and fall with popularity, and success, but lets hope that the industry as a whole is able to improve and succeed in the coming crisis.
Fix Television in 2010
I love my television. I was one of the only children I knew who didn’t have a television until the age of 18! I don’t regret living without the influences and allure that come with the boob tube. It allowed me to develop free from outside influence, but now as a full grown adult I can confidently state that…I am addicted. As a matter of fact, one of my new years resolutions is to cut back. Sadly, television has suffered through so very much as of late considering the recent Writers Strike, and the impeding Screen Actors Strike we may be looking at another crisis in the entertainment industry. The question has quickly become can we save television? What will it take to fix television in 2009?
1. Niche Experience
I, personally, want to experience my entertainment. Television rarely offer us a personal amazing experience. Television has succeeded in entertaining us along longer genre themes. “Lost” intrigues us to the point of congregating to enjoy it. Sex in the City spoke so well to a select few women that nationwide parties sprung up. Give us more content to specifically to our lives that we find interesting. Simply “staying fresh” isn’t good enough anymore. “‘Big Bang Theory” works on many levels both geek and not geek alike.
2. Smarter Interaction Television
Television needs to connect with me more. Currently, there are shows that connect with millions of people regularly. “American Idol” a monolith to be reckon with, and is only now show signs of slightly slowing after nearly 8 seasons. “Dancing With the Stars.” “Americas got Talent” brought us the former cell phone salesman turned opera singer phenomena. However there are a few ugly ducklings who remembers “Hot or Not” with Lorezo Lamas? Or what about .
3. Create Cause Television
Television has to stand for something. In today’s intensely democratic lifestyle it is popular to be a neutral pundit. It is far to difficult to convey change for both sides of the spectrum at the same time. David E. Kelly has won many an Emmy with “Boston Legal” due to his engaging story lines, and shall we say, colorful characters. However, I am most appreciative by its closing few minutes which causes me to pause and consider my worldview. Granted Kelley is a bit heavy handing upon conservative, religious, or Republican views, but he at least tempers his assaults with a delicate balance with the sly exposure of the liberal, relativistic, Democratic underbelly. Stand for something, but make me pause and think. We need more cause television. Yes, we do need to be entertained, but I also want to be engaged or challenged. Even if it is in form of seemingly haphazard satire or political parody of “Family Guy.” Television has largely lost its soul, and I don’t mean its funky groove.
4. Reality Television
Reality television needs to inspire us. Understood, we all know reality television is not reality. Rather a heighten sense of stupidity. We have nearly seen it all. We have already explored the sexual gambit from the inception stereotypical of “Road Rules,” to the voyeuristic “Shot of Love,” and we are generally over it. Currently, America is far more fascinated with feel good content of “Extreme Home Makeover.” We would like to watch television that reminds us that there is still hope. I would go so far as to advocate further exploring inspirational sub-genre’s. “Little People, Big World” does well for itself, and very shortly we will find if Fox’s “Secret Millionaire” is able to perform. In today’s economic downturn we need to either escape or be inspired, not entertained by the awkward or ugly side of life.
5. Reconsider Talent
There is a disparaging amount of minorities within television. Previously, I was never bothered by this fact, but the moment we pulled “George Lopez” in favor Gieco “Caveman,” when we pulled the critically acclaimed “Wayne Brady” talk show for more “Ellen,” (I love you, Ellen) I simply have had enough. I am not crying out for more sexual diversity or orientation diversification mind you. We have quite enough of that. I believe that both the sexes are adequately represented. “Samantha Who” anyone? Having met Christina I am very proud of her work and current endurance through personal crisis. I’m done with the sexual orientation or assignment being the denouement. I’m still recovering from Ava Moore character of Famke Janssen in Nip/Tuck Season. Wow.
Believe me I appreciate the plight of man, but let me see more cultural diversity. I only see an Indian if they have awkward spirituality. Thank God for Tyler Perry! The man has done more with his limited talents then I have ever seen.
6. Commercials Less is More
Commercials were one of the largest deterrent of television viewing. Then came Tivo with its precious fast forward. Also a few friends over at Fox explained their “Remote Free TV” concept, and how it has performed well on key shows including “Fringe.” Commercials are limited to 30 seconds, and it is even announced by a Fringe bumper reminding viewers that they will be right back in 31 seconds. Fox is charging more for premiumcommerical spots, and therefor are running less. Gimmee more of this less stuff.
Conclusion
Never fear, telelvision has faired through even worse days then this. Even with a few daunting tasks on the horizon, including the upcoming Digital Transition, telelvision will continue to thrive. Curious, I wonder what other new forms or genres of telelvision we will see in coming years? Reality telelvision is rather new, perhaps we will have a new type. Any thoughts?
Fix Theaters In 2010 Part 2
Entertainment has gone through many changes throughout out the years. Radio, silent pictures, “talkies,” and eventually “movies” and their theater houses have been the center of our attentions for the past century. However, in today’s day and age with so many possibilities vying for our attention how will theaters keep us coming back for more? How will they stay socially relevant? The following is a continued looking into what I consider a few suggestions for theaters to not only survive, but thrive into today entertainment market.
8. Foster Arts
Cinematic chains are typically viewed as the only portion of entertainment which gives the least back artistically to a community. Time for a change. Local independent film festivals are an excellent way to boost attendance to the theater, and to grow local artistic interest, and can be very simple to put on. My local Cinemark has done an excellent job of pairing with the local colleges, unions, and schools to produce some of the best work in some time. Theaters should reach out to the community and make this a possibility.
9. Event Viewing
Currently, you are able to appreciate the Metropolitan Theater Opera on Cinemark screens for a limited time. This is an excellent idea as it bring in a completely different typically un-theater demograph. Although, it is a valiant first attempt it is far too small of a niche to merit any notable success. Bring “Phantom of the Opera,” to the big screen and I will be there. Hell, if you brought a few Disney shows, Newsies, to the stage I would bring my friends. If Thriller can get its own musical why can’t we see it in a theater?
10. Pre-Roll
Rather then spend time and effort on convincing me to have my next business meeting in your theater offer me other pre-roll entertainment. Only recent theaters began giving you “Behind the Scenes” access which the Army has been all to kind to sponsor. Give me some Pre-Roll entertainment that has something to do with the movie I am about to watch. I didn’t watch the specials, interviews, or extras that were on television regarding the movie I am about to watch, and even if they were I would gladly watch them again. I already gave you my money, now give me more value.
11. Previews
Film commercials have gotten almost formulaic. Lots of explosions, awkward comedic catchphrases, maybe a little skin here or there, and the unavoidable close up of the most bankable star. I’m not complaining entirely. I love to see who is in what, and even what I can expect, but I want to be intrigued as to the quality or storyline of the film. The Dark Knight was an excellent example. Their viral campaigns consisted of multiple websites from the perspective of its main characters, and how those characters might affect your life as an innocent Gothamite bystander, then advertisers got involved. You could have gotten a pizza delivered from Pizza Hut if you were clued into the Hahahatimes from the Joker.
12. Price
Going to the movies has gotten almost more expensive then putting gas in my car, and with so many less expensive ways to get my entertainment you must be competitive. Other methods are becoming popular and simple to use including Netflixs, etc. I would hope that theaters would offer incentives or discounts based upon your interaction with the film. For example, give the rabid fans of Star Wars, a dollar discount if they come in full face paint and costume. They will feel like a valued consumer, and return. Understandably they are coming anyways.
13. Smarter Audiences
Be a smart audience member. Make them earn your business. If you do not like a movie it is your right to walk out within the first 20 minutes and receive a full refund. Consider this something of a modern day “civil/film rights” sit in. Buy a ticket for a movie that you are protesting with a large group of people, walk out twenty minutes into it. This causes the refunds to appear on the books, and your dollars now have an impact. Not to mention the local theaters may stop carrying stupid movies that you do not appreicate.
14. Etiquette
I can not tell you how often an excellent film has been ruined by a damn enthusiastic texter, the over ambitious chatter box, and even the half naked raving minority child. The theaters have done a decent job of attempting to crack down on the frenetic texters with an additional reminder commercial break to STOP, but I think that they should go one step further. Provide a simple text at the beginning of the film offering the patrons the option of a manager stepping in for a minute or two and catch the annoyance in the act, and either escort them out or tell them to stop or kill them.
Conclusion
Essentially, theaters must reconsider how they operate their businesses. Everything from the inital experience to the audience etiquette during the movie must be taken into consideration. I, for one, am very excited to spend a Friday evening with my lady enjoying a blockbuster. Let’s see if we could get that expereince everytime.
Fix Theaters in 2010 Part 1
January, 1. Typically the day evokes a sense of new beginning, and resilience that can only be explained as inspiring. Winter is nearly over, we are a year older and hopefully wiser. Personally, it means that we leave the cineplexes for the joys of our couch for mid-season television is upon us. What? Can I be that fickle to leave theaters so easily? Yes. Aside from a few bright shinning cinematic starts there has been not only less and less to see, but even less to appreciate. Oh, dear! Whatever can be done? Pull up a chair.
1. Experience
Give me the experience of a lifetime! I loved the lights dimming, and the hush that falls over the crowd who have congregated together to worship at our sacred screen. Idolizing the gods, and goddesses that grace us with their presence! Now…not so much. Now…I have television, HBO, Showtime, Netflix, XBOX, Warcraft, and tons of other things to vie for my heart. The only way I will come back is if you give me the butterfly’s again. We want to rekindle the romance! Every time there is a mega blockbuster and we the freaks and geeks come out of the woodwork I shudder. Give me the escapism.
2. Projection Technology
Sadly, a majority of theaters are still utilizing the same film projection technology for the past twenty years, and are now paying the price. Digital Projection is finally finding its way in, thanks to a few giants like Lucas and Spielberg insisting, and putting their money where their mouths are. Even Marc Cuban is joining in. He claims his recently equipped 3-D theater chain will be “LSD for 2009.” I’ve met Mark. I like him. I’ll do LSD in 3-D with him.
3. Viewing Formats
New formats are currently a craze in Hollywood. May it be television scouting for a new animation, puppetry, and even these new formats are the the equivalent of comedic sitcoms of the early 90′s. Theaters are now upgrading to accommodate 3-D, and even a few films are coming out. Several years ago Robert Rodrigez tested the waters with “Spy Kids 3-D,” and on valentines you can treat your significant other to a “Bloody Valentine.” IMAX is now in the public eye due to “Dark Knight” incorporating IMAX format into the film. I still want to see it on that huge screen.
4. Feature Presentation
I remember watching “Honey I Shrunk The Kids,” and a short cartoon, “Tummy Trouble,” played beforehand featuring Roger Rabbit. I loved it, and was instantly curious to watch the other movie forget Rick Morranis. I had never seen Roger Rabbit, but just right then my little adolescent mind cried out for more of Bugs Bunny brain dead. Pixar delivers memorable shorts time and time again before their feature presentation which are always excellent. I even bought the Pixar Collection of all the shorts. Feel free to fill out my theater experience by giving me some more content.
5. Double Features
Ask anyone what was their favorite part of drive-in theaters? A close second to “scoring” you will find is the golden double feature. The films have already made their money, so why not secure a rather inexpensive viewing licenses, and see if you can make some money. If you were shrewd you would pair up a few of the storyline base movies. For example, I always make it a point to watch the preceding movie in a story, but never get a chance to. However if you charge me a couple bucks more, but I get to see Transformers I, before I watch the premiere of Transformers two I would be in heaven. Better yet, why not play a few episodes of the classic G.I. Joe, before I watch the huge blockbuster. I’d pay you a few dollars more.
6. Preview Trailers
Hollywood is gradually understanding that we all love our trailers. They are bombarding us well over a year before the movie even comes out, and if they do it right we all run home and blog it up. They are now giving us exclusive trailers to drool over before the movie begins, and even a few give us an extended version. Comic-Con has risen to meteoric heights in nerdom for Hollywood giving us a few exclusive scraps. Give me more. I’ll remember you.Give me 5 minutes of your great film, and it may compel me to actually go and see it. Don’t be stingy. I gave you almost $10. The least you can do is give me some great visual foreplay before getting down to the main event.
7. Unlock the Vault
Theaters will play some oldies but goodies at times, and I love it. Rather then just giving me Terminator 1 on the big screen, give me the entire trilogy, and ask me to pay $15. In today’s depressing economy and job market you will be surprised how much we will pay for some escapism. During the Great Depression moving pictures, and eventually the talkies established our current Hollywood hierarchy due to the mountains of monies their were able to grab. Unlock the vault, and some me some great classics. I never got to see Jaws on the big screen.
Fix Entertainment in 2010
The old year is hardly gone, and a new year is upon us. Our past has been filled with political unrest, a plummeting economy, and shocking celebrity deaths. As well as America’s historic national election, Olympic superstars, not to mention cheap gas, and sham-wow. But what, if anything, what does this mean for the entertainment industry as we enter 2009? Television, Films, Music, New Media, and even Distributors must adapt to be able to survive our trouble times. In the following series entitled “Fixing Entertainment” I will be taking a critical eye to these essential aspects of entertainment. I do not attempt to be abrasive, or judgmental. Rather my goal is to raise awareness in respective forums to cultivate conversation, and possibly true change.
Before we begin discussing the current state of our entertainment industry, I thought it best to recommend broad New Years Resolutions for all Entertainers out there to succeed early on this year. This is also the first part in a five part series.
Refocus
We must refocus ourselves fundamentally. During this difficult time we must refocus to survive. Ask yourself what can you change to better your personal life, your families, your career? Perhaps this would mean to refocus your finances to save a little to eventually be able to accomplish smaller more fulfilling creative projects. Maybe it is to refocus you mind and creative energies by spending more time on yourself. Whatever it may be you will only be able to refocus your life if you specifically take the time and look closer. Take the opportunity as the new year begins.
I must learn to refocus myself into what I consider my theme for this year: Building Bridges. I am committed to networking successfully online, in person, both personally and professionally. To accomplish my goals I must refocus on my principles of connecting persons. Another of my goals is to be able to speak more frequently. To this end I have sought out other speakers who encourage and critique me. I must refocus my eye upon the prize which I will soon attain.
What have you decided to refocus on in this upcoming year? What do you strive to accomplish?
Reorganize
Once we have refocus ourselves it is time to move into action and reorganize our priorities. There is little good to refocus our time and energies if we do not actively seek out to improve these areas, and to prune back those areas we either need to modify or do without all together. Often shortly after the New Year our passion for change or improvement fades, and we find ourselves very unorganized. Take simple steps initially to begin the reorganization process. Perhaps you must disassociate yourself with time wasters found in certain relationships, hobbies, or luxuries. Reorganizing yourself also means establishing positive replacements to support your new decisions or lifestyles.
I have reorganized my life to better reach and impact my friends, colleagues, and clients through my business website, and this blog. Also I have taken more steps to structure my online prescense more professionally. Also to reorganize my priorities to achieve public speaking success I have begun to read and interact more, thereby spending less time watching television or going out with friends.
What steps will you take to reorganize your life? What are you willing to sacrifice to achieve your goals?
Remember
Now that I find myself successfully refocusing and reorganizing myself, I must now remember who I am, and what I will attain. Stocking the fires of your inspiration will encourage you to continue growing in your personal or professional life. Never forget your roots, your origins, or who helped you get even this far. Be thankful for the ground you have been able to cover, and even thank them for the influence they have had on your life. Start the year with a direction, and a group of friends or associates who are like minded in reminding you who you are and where you have come from. This will establish a sound foundation for your future success as it rapidly approaches.
I am very nostalgic. My past experiences and memories are never too far away. I mount them on the wall in pictures or surround myself with the very people who have been instrumental for my success. However, I am challenging myself to remember who I was before even my adulthood. Remembering, my childlike joy at learning new things, with making new friends. Often work can strangle the memories of happier times, and steal the joy of making new memories. I am working on finding myself. Or rather my tinier self.
Ask yourself who or what causes you to remember who you are, and where you are from. Are you surrounding yourself with these milestone or testaments to past victories or future successes? Or are you sitting down waiting for life to improve for you?
Conclusion
This New Year will most likely bring about some frightening changes in our lives, and in our communities. Let us strive to do what is our personal responsiblities to be apart of the solution, and not tearn one another down with envy or needless squabbles. This New Year will bring its own set of troubles and challenges. Let us not add ourselves to that list. Rather build each other up, and encourage each other beyond our aspiratoins. Yes, we can ladies and gentleman. We are the gatekeepers of our destiny. The presidents of our profession. Yes, we can.
Armageddon! (Coming Soon)
In the little town of Edmonton, Canada the world nearly ceased to exist as we know it. Naturally, I am exaggerating a bit for theatrical purposes, but I dare you to look at this, and not let your jaw drop out of sheer Meteoric Amazement. The police camera segment did very well on youtube racking over 1.2 million hits over the weekend, and finding its way into over 10 blogs.
Go ahead, and take a look.
Now go save the planet and stop depleteing the Ozone layer. (Although it has nothing to do with meteors.)
Improve Your Hosted Webseries
Fortune 500 companies and even small independents typically ask me the same question first. “How do I improve my hosted web series?” The answer is cryptic, but simple. “Kill Your Babies”
Now before you round up the posse or look about for torches and pitchforks, what the sentiment is meant to convey is just this. “Kill your pet project or personal interests for the sake of the overall benefit of your program.” I know. Awkward catch phrase, but blame Scorsese.
Normally, the firstborn child which should be killed immediately is YOU! Your ego, self-interest, and ulterior agendas must be sacrificed if not aligned with the programs vision and goals. Let’s face it. Our very favorite topic is normally ourselves. The most painless beginning point for all of us narcissistic babies is the “Jump Cut.”
Essentially, jump cuts omits your verbal wanderings, mistakes, or misinformation in a quick and simple fashion. This is utilizes by several of today’s most prominent online personalities
Jump Cut Pros
- Easy: Simple to do, and can be modified even further with a few snazzy sound affects or layering.
- Efficient: It progresses your story with minimal effort. Adds an “effect” to your low/no budget production.
- Cover-Up: You don’t have to be a “One Take Wonder.” Just cut the crap out. No stress involved.
- Accepted: It has now become widely accepted means of storytelling. “Requiem for a Dream” is to be thanked.
Jump Cut Cons
- Overused: This technique has over flooded the online storytelling, and as a result we have gotten lazy.
- Magic Bullet Mentality: Jump Cuts is an aesthetic choice, NOT a plot point. It will not cover poor writing.
- Amateur: There are other more appealing and professional edits that can usually better communicate.
Quick Tutorial (Larry Jordan)
- Open your editing program. Import your footage. Lay it out in your timeline.
- Browse your footage for the break in your story. Remember to leave a few handle frames.
- Cut the unwanted footage out. Reconnect your video stream, leaving no gap.
- View your magic. You should now see the video “stutter” or “jump” without your blunder.
Success Story
Epic-Fu is the best.
Directorial Musical Chairs
Good Morning America,
There seems to be quite a few interesting undercurrents shaping what you will be watching and when fairly shortly. Enjoy.
1. Bryan Singer & Superman: Man of Steel
This highly overrated director will be returning to further butcher a beloved character with ….
“… unrelenting terror! All those teenage girls who found the movie and mooned over James Marsden or Brandon? Well, I’m going to wake them up!”
Which is exactly what I was hoping for. More Mardsen & the poorly created character of Brandon. Never mind the alien that walks among us protecting us (Superman). This is the first meaningful thing Singer has said. Sad.
2. Sam Rami & Monster Zoo
Even though Sam has finished with his Spider-man trilogy it seems as if he is not capable of staying away from the comic book genre. He is currently directing “Drag Me To Hell,” and will be leading “Monster Zoo,” a film Paramount pictures hopes will successfully fuse Sam and another as of yet to be published comic book written by Douglas TeNapel (the gentleman who brought us Earth Worm Jim). I’m game for this film if only out of loyalty to the man who made comic books cool again. At least….almost cool. Lets just go for no longer socially retarded..
3. Brad Bird & 1906
Brad brought us “The Incredibles,” and more recently the Oscar worthy “Ratatouille.” Next he will be bringing us his first live action film for Warner Bros & Disney/Pixar placed within historical San Francisco’s devistating earthquake. I’m really curious to watch this production unfold. H’s not playing with crayons anymore. (If you don’t know this reference go watch “Rats” DVD extras. Some of the best DVD extras to come out.)
4. 90210 in 2008
Yes its back. I know. I know. I’m sorry too. Its coming soon. Near you. To eat your small children’s morals. Run.
5. Michael Bay & Rosemaries Baby
Last, but certainly not least Michael Bay will be producing a remake of the oldie thriller. Given what he has been able to accomplish with bringing back several long loved concepts I’m confident he will do this justice.
Which begs a question. What are some old well loved concepts that you would like to see come back? I ‘m going to go with Thundercats.
Funny Games
Ever so often the web is blessed with a truly amazing film trailer. I do believe that I may have found the very best film trailer this year. (Possibly a close second to “Iron Man,” but I readily admit that I am very biased in favor of any comic book movie.)
Here is my own personal guidelines for measuring the success of a film trailer.
1. Does it convey authors intent?
Are you able to sufficiently grasp the premise of the film? Were they able to convince you, coerce you, or attract you? Many film trailers that come out these days rarely intrigue or worse yet tell all too fast leaving nothing for you to desire. Ever seen a movie that the best parts were all found in the trailer? Aggravating isn’t it? A trailer should leave you wanting more. Salivating at the thought of been privileged to view any more. I argue Funny Games does just that. every trailer or really any abbreviated work of an artist should be an accurate representation or the overall project.