Author Topic: Take a look at one of the things I've been working on, could use your support! (Read 3627 times)

The Fake Shemp · « **on:** February 09, 2010, 08:30:02 PM »

It's not often I'm public about stuff I'm working on, but I guess the powers that be want to press ahead with some kind of online presence. So I humbly introduce you to The Projectionist, a 15-minute weekly anthology series consistent with, and spiritual successor to, the great genre television anthologies of the 1960's. I'll let the manufactured PR speak for itself:

Quote

Each week, the mysterious owner and projectionist of the State Theater, Cole Kirwin, will thrust an unwitting member of his audience into a strange and fantastic situation. How the unfortunate audience member reacts will contribute to the macabre, ironic, or unexpected twist ending of each episode.

I have embedded the two-minute teaser for the show below, and a few stills from production. We are now have a presence on both Facebook and Twitter, and I would be very appreciative of any fan support from you guys.

The next question will be, "When does it launch?" And to that, I must unfortunately answer, "TBD."

It's in active development, and I can't go into specifics with what companies are currently in talks to foot the bill for this production. I will say that it has generated a startling amount of buzz, and I have been surprised to see what companies have tried to woo the producers.

Still, my gut (hyuk, hyuk) instinct says this will end up being independently financed, because all three of the producers remain steadfast on a specific budget and that number just isn't one that the majors and most production companies are comfortable with - especially for online content.

So any fan support will go a long way.

My role is that of executive story editor. I unfortunately cannot take any credit for the promo, because all I did was sit by the sidelines and cheer, and monitor the post-production process with the rest of the crew (and give feedback when appropriate). The promo was directed by Stewart Hopewell, who directed Slaughter, one of last year's 8 Films to Die For from the annual After Dark Horrorfest.

I've written a couple of scripts for the show - including one used to pitch the project to some of the folks we're dealing with - and will be in charge with developing the mythos for the show, general creative direction and overseeing (as well as assisting) other writers.

As this production progresses, I'll be sure to let you guys know about it. Thanks.

[youtube=560,345]8nbxI-lbOYc[/youtube]

Howard Alan Treesong · « **Reply #1 on:** February 09, 2010, 08:36:11 PM »

FIRST

(fan on Facebook)

Barry Egan · « **Reply #2 on:** February 09, 2010, 08:40:07 PM »

neat!

Bildi · « **Reply #3 on:** February 09, 2010, 08:40:48 PM »

Cool. I don't have facebook or twitter but will keep up on youtube.

Great Rumbler · « **Reply #4 on:** February 09, 2010, 08:42:04 PM »

I like the dark, moody look of the promo. If you can keep that up through an entire episode, I'm definitely interested.

OptimoPeach · « **Reply #5 on:** February 09, 2010, 08:44:01 PM »

Quote from: Bildi on February 09, 2010, 08:40:48 PM

Cool. I don't have facebook or twitter but will keep up on youtube.

+1

The Fake Shemp · « **Reply #6 on:** February 09, 2010, 08:44:32 PM »

Yeah, that's the goal. I actually wrote an episode that the producers told me was too dark, so I had to dial it down. I can say that everyone involved are huge Richard Matheson fans, so his stuff is usually the barometer.

Phoenix Dark · « **Reply #7 on:** February 09, 2010, 08:45:54 PM »

Billco taking over the internets

looks pretty good actually

Barry Egan · « **Reply #8 on:** February 09, 2010, 08:47:49 PM »

Indeed, at the rate he's going he'll be Sergeant Billco in no time!

CajoleJuice · « **Reply #9 on:** February 09, 2010, 08:50:05 PM »

Teaser rocks.

Eric P · « **Reply #10 on:** February 09, 2010, 08:50:46 PM »

hire tvc and myself to do Caligula 2010, which is a remake of Rome 1978, which is the telling of Caligula in the lower east side in the 70s transplanted to williamsburg in the 10s

why should you care?

two words: Hipster Fister

The Fake Shemp · « **Reply #11 on:** February 09, 2010, 08:52:01 PM »

How much would it cost to option this screenplay? It sounds like movie gold!

Brehvolution · « **Reply #12 on:** February 09, 2010, 08:52:48 PM »

CajoleJuice · « **Reply #13 on:** February 09, 2010, 08:54:18 PM »

Quote from: Synthesizer Patel on February 09, 2010, 08:36:11 PM

FIRST

(follower on Twitter)

.

Eric P · « **Reply #14 on:** February 09, 2010, 08:55:39 PM »

Quote from: The Fake Shemp on February 09, 2010, 08:52:01 PM

How much would it cost to option this screenplay? It sounds like movie gold!

probably $20 and a bag of cheese doodles

spoiler (click to show/hide)

scene 1, int. daylight we open on a williamsburg studio

the floor is covered with overturned ashtrays and crushed cans of tecate and modelo. the camera pans around the horribly filthy apartment and settles on a pair of breasts. on the breasts are tattooed "vini, vidi, vajayjay"

[close]

Flannel Boy · « **Reply #15 on:** February 09, 2010, 08:57:53 PM »

Billco

CajoleJuice · « **Reply #16 on:** February 09, 2010, 09:00:48 PM »

Ok, Billco, give me mod powers now.

http://twitter.com/CajoleJuice/status/8881962608

Ichirou · « **Reply #17 on:** February 09, 2010, 09:22:17 PM »

Get me a job on the show, Willco. I'll do anything.

The Fake Shemp · « **Reply #18 on:** February 09, 2010, 09:23:48 PM »

We will be following a television production schedule, so I probably won't know when things air chronologically. I will say that my hands will be on every script, with the exception of one (due to contractual obligations).

Right now, the struggle is financing. There have been a few parties that don't want to spend this kind of money on an Internet production, but would be interested in developing a television pilot - which everyone is pretty much against. I think one party has pretty much walked away because they'd only do the digital distribution model as a teaser for either film or television, but that kind of goes against the spirit of the production.

We really want to bring television production values to the Internet; compelling stories, not short films and narcissistic humor. We think the market is there, it just hasn't really been tapped into yet.

Regardless, the production has been a source of great contacts for me and is the reason why I'm working on a feature script.

The Fake Shemp · « **Reply #19 on:** February 09, 2010, 09:25:52 PM »

Quote from: Ichirou on February 09, 2010, 09:22:17 PM

Get me a job on the show, Willco. I'll do anything.

If you lived in the States, this would be possible!

And Phoenix Dark, you'd be happy to know that one of the locations that the producers were scouting was Detroit. It is not our first pick for shooting location, though.

Green Shinobi · « **Reply #20 on:** February 09, 2010, 10:39:30 PM »

Federman the next Arthur Digby Sellers?

Mr. Gundam · « **Reply #21 on:** February 09, 2010, 10:47:01 PM »

Congrats, Will. Added it on Facebook.

The Fake Shemp · « **Reply #22 on:** February 09, 2010, 11:09:28 PM »

Quote from: Green Man on February 09, 2010, 10:40:02 PM

You got a high resolution version of this production still? Like 1280x720 or maybe larger?

(Image removed from quote.)

Not with that color and resolution. I can get a similar grab from the 1080p file I have, but that still was before color correction (yes, they hired a professional to do color correction). Those stills were from the DP right after the shoot.

... I could inquire about getting one from the 4K master, though.

The Fake Shemp · « **Reply #23 on:** February 09, 2010, 11:12:38 PM »

Actually, I couldn't even screen grab the same still. That's from a completely different take than what is in the teaser. I'll ask one of the producers if our DP has a higher resolution still.

The Fake Shemp · « **Reply #24 on:** February 09, 2010, 11:17:57 PM »

No worries. I'll send a quick e-mail to inquire about whether or not it's possible.

Green Shinobi · « **Reply #25 on:** February 09, 2010, 11:19:07 PM »

Added that shit on facebook because I believe in the arts and actually really like the premise. Would love to be pleasantly surprised by the great Federman's ability to write a good script.

The Fake Shemp · « **Reply #26 on:** February 09, 2010, 11:21:56 PM »

I have little to no ability, but I am good at discerning garbage. Oddly enough, I think both episodes I have written have little to no dialogue. One of them may have ten lines - tops! I'm a big believer in letting the director do his thing.

I'm purely a genre writer. I don't have a lot of range or ability.

Green Shinobi · « **Reply #27 on:** February 09, 2010, 11:30:48 PM »

Believe it or not, Willco, even though we disagree on Avatar, I've read enough of your posts on other subjects that I believe you have a pretty good philosophy on what good cinema or television should be. I also believe that you have a pretty solid understanding of what makes for effective horror. So I'm sure that if you really work at developing your craft, you could be a good writer by any standard.

Diunx · « **Reply #28 on:** February 09, 2010, 11:36:35 PM »

Looks really cool, are anthology shows like Night Gallery? I used to love that show.

The Fake Shemp · « **Reply #29 on:** February 09, 2010, 11:37:28 PM »

Thanks for the olive branch. I just write what I think I would pay to see, and pray it turns out okay.

Quote from: Diunx on February 09, 2010, 11:36:35 PM

Looks really cool, are anthology shows like Night Gallery? I used to love that show.

Yeah. I really use to dig Night Gallery. I pull a lot of inspiration for my stuff from the old EC Comics, but I know some of the other writers are devout fans of The Twilight Zone. Their stuff tends to be a bit softer.

And there are a few rules in the series bible, so episodes don't go too far "out there".

Bildi · « **Reply #30 on:** February 09, 2010, 11:51:34 PM »

The only thing I've seen lately like this is "Nightmares and Dreamscapes". I found it OK but nothing that great.

Raban · « **Reply #31 on:** February 10, 2010, 02:33:47 AM »

Hey Willco I live like a 3 hour drive from LA, can I be in your television show?

I can guarantee that Demi will watch your show if I'm in it

The Fake Shemp · « **Reply #32 on:** February 10, 2010, 02:37:54 AM »

If we shoot in Los Angeles, I don't mind opening this place up for extras - but it was very expensive to shoot that promo in Los Angeles. It's the reason why the production will likely move elsewhere if it's picked up.

Raban · « **Reply #33 on:** February 10, 2010, 02:42:38 AM »

Quote from: The Fake Shemp on February 10, 2010, 02:37:54 AM

If we shoot in Los Angeles, I don't mind opening this place up for extras - but it was very expensive to shoot that promo in Los Angeles. It's the reason why the production will likely move elsewhere if it's picked up.

I'd tell you to move to where I live, but I don't think the premise would work in a beach area

I'd recommend some on-location places to shoot around here, but I have no idea how TV work is done, and I'm pretty sure it's all sound stage stuff.

This really small town nearby has an abandoned movie theatre, maybe it's worth checking out? Lemme know and I'll PM the details or some shit. Or just decline it here

The Fake Shemp · « **Reply #34 on:** February 10, 2010, 09:43:48 AM »

Quote from: Green Man on February 10, 2010, 02:38:43 AM

Film it in D.C.

It is a possibility, because of the network of contacts that I have here and the good amount of crew we can hire locally. I do not think it is high on the list, though.

Mr. Gundam · « **Reply #35 on:** February 10, 2010, 01:29:42 PM »

Quote from: The Fake Shemp on February 10, 2010, 02:37:54 AM

If we shoot in Los Angeles, I don't mind opening this place up for extras - but it was very expensive to shoot that promo in Los Angeles. It's the reason why the production will likely move elsewhere if it's picked up.

Willco becomes my neighbor up north in Vancouver!

demi · « **Reply #36 on:** February 10, 2010, 01:30:49 PM »

i dont think any of us could support you

ha ha ha

Himu · « **Reply #37 on:** February 10, 2010, 01:33:49 PM »

Congrats, Will. I'm a fan on Facebook and I'm really jealous.

The Fake Shemp · « **Reply #38 on:** February 10, 2010, 01:56:08 PM »

Quote from: demi on February 10, 2010, 01:30:49 PM

i dont think any of us could support you

... Vancouver is one of the spots we're seriously looking at. It's at the top of the list.

BobFromPikeCreek · « **Reply #39 on:** February 10, 2010, 02:13:52 PM »

This sounds awesome. Good stuff man.

I'll add myself as a Facebook fan later.

Tauntaun · « **Reply #40 on:** February 11, 2010, 11:21:40 AM »

So this is about a dude who gets a job as a projectionist because he likes movies?

The Fake Shemp · « **Reply #41 on:** February 11, 2010, 11:36:11 AM »

Quote from: Tauntaun on February 11, 2010, 11:21:40 AM

So this is about a dude who gets a job as a projectionist because he likes movies?

Cole Kirwin loves movies, but I'd be hesitant to label him completely human.

Eel O'Brian · « **Reply #42 on:** February 11, 2010, 11:57:24 AM »

looks really sharp, i fanned it with all the various facebook accounts

The Fake Shemp · « **Reply #43 on:** February 11, 2010, 11:58:26 AM »

Yeah, I saw that. Really appreciate it!

I think we're going to throw up some wallpaper and a few goodies next week. I'm going to try and see if we can get the producers to release the end credits score that the composer worked on, but was not included in the teaser.

The Fake Shemp · « **Reply #44 on:** February 11, 2010, 12:32:57 PM »

I feel confident that it will get produced. There are too many people interested. Where the money comes from, we don't know.

The Fake Shemp · « **Reply #45 on:** February 11, 2010, 12:35:39 PM »

Got some exciting news about our lead actor from Hollywood this morning. I can't share it yet, but when I can - I'll let you guys know. Could be a nice boost for the production.

Green Shinobi · « **Reply #46 on:** February 11, 2010, 12:37:08 PM »

Christian Bale signed on?

The Fake Shemp · « **Reply #47 on:** February 11, 2010, 12:39:32 PM »

No, our current lead actor. The guy in the teaser. His name is Christopher Amitrano. Nice guy, Redskins fan.

Phoenix Dark · « **Reply #48 on:** February 11, 2010, 12:56:48 PM »

Any thoughts about shooting in Michigan?

The Fake Shemp · « **Reply #49 on:** February 11, 2010, 01:11:45 PM »

I think I said a page or two back that it was one of the places we were looking at. The tax incentives are nice and Michigan has a wide variety of scenery to pick from. That said, there are some reservations about shooting in certain parts of the state and the fact that other locations have a deeper pool of talent to hire cast and crew from. Weather is also a factor.

Mupepe · « **Reply #50 on:** February 11, 2010, 01:13:44 PM »

You should shoot in Houston!

I saw the invite a couple days back, but I never log onto Facebook on the PC. As soon as I do, I'll accept and spread the word.

Flannel Boy · « **Reply #51 on:** February 11, 2010, 01:13:54 PM »

You should shoot in Winnipeg, at least if you need a city that looks like it's in the middle of a post-apocalyptic nuclear winter.

The Fake Shemp · « **Reply #52 on:** February 11, 2010, 01:22:46 PM »

Texas isn't really a great destination for productions, yet. It has a dedicated film community, but it's still rather closed (like New Zealand) and it doesn't offer the tax incentives and services of other locations.

I think the likelihood is that we'll wind up in Vancouver or the Carolinas. If one of the Hollywood players that we're talking to has the balls to see this thing through, we might be lucky enough to shoot on a backlot - but that'd be probably the only way we'd stay in Los Angeles.

Tauntaun · « **Reply #53 on:** February 11, 2010, 02:12:05 PM »

Looking forward to more of this my little jewbie poo.

The Fake Shemp · « **Reply #54 on:** February 11, 2010, 02:28:12 PM »

Quote from: mojovonio on February 11, 2010, 01:42:28 PM

Looks great, but I get kinda of a.... too clean.... feeling from the teaser.

The music was great, but the actual cinematography looks too Nolan-esque.

I will take that was a compliment. Wally Pfister is one of the best in the business. That said, it is my understanding that the director of photography will not be retained when production goes into full-swing. I know the producers want the director, Stewart Hopewell, back for a few episodes however.

tehjaybo · « **Reply #55 on:** February 11, 2010, 02:36:05 PM »

I'd suggest Kentucky if you wouldn't get shot at during filming.

Also, I'd be all about helping/being in/whatever to help with this. I've been interested since you first mentioned it to me.

The Fake Shemp · « **Reply #56 on:** February 11, 2010, 02:48:51 PM »

Quote from: mojovonio on February 11, 2010, 02:35:48 PM

This isn't going to be an online thing right?

Completely online. That's the goal. There is a sales model in place, and it's not only viable, but I think it could be really successful. They point where things have gotten hung up is the budget, which is somewhat unprecedented for a production of this magnitude (hint: it's not). The Bannen Way was able to finance its production with a lot of product placement and marketing connections.

A few parties have already proposed transitioning this project to television - and even film - but at this point, none of the producers want to shy way from what they think is an untapped medium that will give them far more exposure if its successful than a modest failure on television or in theaters (or home video) would.

Quote

Also, you should see what Angelo Badalamenti is up to. He tends to like composing for indie projects.

It is my understanding that the producers have every intention of retaining the current composer, Gregory Tripi, for the full production. He is a nice guy, and I have a few MP3s of stuff he composed for the promo - I think I am going to get one of the producers to edit the end title credits suite into something we can let fans download.

They're happy with him, and finding a composer was a fairly lengthy process. I threw a couple of names into the ring, but they seem to be happy with Tripi.

Quote from: mojovonio on February 11, 2010, 02:42:36 PM

Also, that actor has a great look to him. He looks fucking BUSINESS.

Yeah, Amitrano is a good actor. But to be brutally honest, and the few here that have seen the full 8-minute promo will back this, his performance is pretty rough in a key dialogue scene. That's not really his fault, the editor got stuck with some pretty bad takes due to some gaffes on set. The good stuff got tossed because of technical issues. He makes his bones doing television work, so he's usually pretty professional.

Mupepe · « **Reply #57 on:** February 11, 2010, 02:57:14 PM »

Matthew Fox is a fantastic television actor

The Fake Shemp · « **Reply #58 on:** February 11, 2010, 02:59:53 PM »

How and what will be available is totally going to be determined by who picks up the check. In a perfect world, we'd love to pair with someone like Crackle or even Hulu (yes, they are also working original programming). The likelihood is that we'll end up on a site where people will be able to watch each episode for free, and then will be able to download each episode in 1080p from iTunes, Zune, Amazon, etc. for a nominal charge.

Thanks for the support!

tiesto · « **Reply #59 on:** February 11, 2010, 03:20:00 PM »

Sounds cool, I love the Twilight Zone and twist endings. Attempting to "become a fan" on FB but my FB has been screwing up lately, will keep trying though.

I'd say go film in NY but it's probably a bit too costly.

News:

Author Topic: Take a look at one of the things I've been working on, could use your support! (Read 3627 times)