12.17.08
50 Fun Things to Do for Under $50
Nice list from the Detroit News. Glad to see Number 12 included, as the Dakota Inn is a memorable place.
11.29.08
AnnArborAlive Keeps the Beat in Ypsilanti, Too
Jim Griffin and the team over at AnnArborAlive have broadcast from their Ypsilanti studios for some time now, and it’s a pleasure to have them in Depot Town, as they’ve made this outstanding business/shopping district all the more so. Give a listen to their passionate brand of community radio, which offers up the best in music, theater, and more throughout the area.
11.26.08
So, where have you been, Tim?
Glad you asked. Not only have I been working as an Interactive Project Manager at Wunderman-Team Detroit since late September, where I manage, troubleshoot, and upload text attributes and image assets within Ford Motor Company’s Configuration and Retail Services (CARS) content management system, I also have stayed quite busy as a Prescreener for the 2009 Ann Arbor Film Festival, which gives me the chance to look at roughly 20 films per week, and help determine which make the final cut. Both gigs have kept me jumping, but I hope to become more active in this space, and soon.
10.06.08
Arresting Site of the Month, October: The Producer’s Guide to Michigan
Film productions have been streaming into Michigan since incentive legislation that passed in April made our state Hollywood’s new “it” locale. The sheer logistics of bringing together cast, crew, and support services can be daunting, but there is a splendid resource to help filmmakers share their vision with audiences. “More than a comprehensive directory of Michigan-based production resources,” The Producer’s Guide to Michigan — the creation of industry veterans Peter Mertz and Nick Johnston — offers an array of tools and advice on how and where to find the best sound stages & studios, extras, and more.
Given the seemingly endless reports of bad economic news around the country and around our state, it’s a distinct pleasure to spotlight this job-driving guide as the Arresting Site of the Month for October. Grab a camera and get rolling.
Note: Nominations for November are due on Monday, October 27, and I’ll announce the winner on Monday, November 3. Thanks once again for your interest and your participation.
08.13.08
Whip It Good
I had my three days in the Hollywood limelight, working as an extra on the set of Whip It (see July 21 post), which stars Ellen Page, Drew Barrymore, Jimmy Fallon, and many others among a top-flight ensemble. I was quite impressed with Ms. Barrymore’s directorial work, especially since it’s her debut behind the lens. She kept the action moving crisply, yet always found time to collaborate on ideas with the cast and crew, and she often (and genuinely) complimented the extras. There also were plenty of laughs on the set, which kept everyone in good spirits, even on the night I worked until after 4 a.m. in the heat of the old Monarch Steel warehouse on Mt. Elliot in Detroit. I’m hoping she returns to the Great Lake State often with her production company, Flower Films, as many area residents made extra money (no pun intended) during the production, and gained valuable experience and insight. Well done.
07.21.08
Extra! Extra!
Whaddya know?! Found out today that I’m slated be on set as an extra in Drew Barrymore’s directorial debut, Whip It!, starring Ellen Page, and which begins shooting next week here in Michigan. I should know soon how many days the filmmakers will use me, and I’m honored to have been chosen, along with hundreds more area residents, by the talented folks at Real Style. It’s amazing to see how quickly the state is attracting movie business since Governor Granholm signed incentive legislation in April. This region is known for keeping wheels turning, now let’s see if we can keep reels turning.
06.03.08
Waterfront Film Festival
Presenting “outstanding independent films from all over the United States,” Saugatuck, Michigan hosts its 10th Annual Waterfront Film Festival. This year’s event runs June 12-15 in the town also renowned (as is sister city Douglas) for its B&Bs, and the schedule is packed with highlights, ranging from dramas to comedies to documentaries, and a “Michigan Showcase.” The festival has attained impressive status, with the Screen Actor’s Guild magazine citing it as one of its top five favorites, placing WFF alongside Cannes, Sundance, CineVegas, and SXSW. New to Saugatuck? It’s easy to get there.
04.04.08
Detroit Fringe Festival
DJ Afrika Bambaataa, Larval, Niagra, and The Polka Floyd. Oh, and Flint’s own Sandra Bernhard as host. That’s only part of the exceptionally diverse, compelling lineup that will take the stage at the 2008 Detroit Fringe Festival, which celebrates “Experimental Music, Art & Fashion” and takes place tomorrow (Saturday), April 5 at the Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts. Check out the full schedule, and try to get yourself downtown.
03.20.08
46th Ann Arbor Film Festival
The Ann Arbor Film Festival remains one of the world’s premier cinematic happenings. I’ve had the pleasure of attending numerous times, and the 46th annual event carries on its long tradition of cutting-edge invention. Learn more about the festival, which runs from Tuesday, March 25 through Sunday, March 30, and please attend, if possible. Here is this year’s schedule, a program sure to provide you a memorable experience. Great slogan: It’s Time to Watch.
