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Each year since inception, the New Hampshire Film Festival is proud to present professional
development and educational opportunities for filmmakers, screenwriters and film enthusiasts.
Here is this year's roster of workshops and panel discussions:
›› Annual Young Filmmakers Workshop
›› Community Access Media and the Independent Filmmaker
›› The Top 10 Legal & Business Choices for Independent Filmakers
›› Film as an Agent of Positive Change
›› Distribution and The New Frontier
›› And Action!
›› The art of the Pitch and Developing Your Project
›› Roll Credits!
›› Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Screenwriting
›› Social & New Media: The Cheaper Film Promotion Alternative
Individual Workshop Tickets are $12, excluding the Young Filmmakers Workshop.
Free entry to all VIP, Weekend and Day Pass holders. All workshop descriptions
are below. See, meet and learn at the New Hampshire Film Festival!
YOUNG FILMMAKERS WORKSHOP*
OCT. 16.17.18, 2009
FRIDAY, 6 P.M. - 8:30 P.M.
SATURDAY, 9 A.M. - 8:30 P.M.
SUNDAY, 9 A.M. - 8:30 P.M.
IOS Business Centers
155 Fleet Street
The Young Filmmakers Workshop (YFW) is the featured youth program for the New Hampshire Film Festival. Every year, young filmmakers (ages 14 – 18) experience an intensive, full-weekend study of the movie-making process. The program is one part film school and one part filmmaking challenge. The weekend is led by New Hampshire filmmaker/new media producer/teacher John Herman. Students are provided dinner on Saturday and Sunday. Price for the full weekend is $150. Space is limited.
This year's special guest speakers include:
LESLIE POSTON AND AMY GREENLAW, Film POP!
W. RYAN BAKER, Sound Engineer
JACQUI BAKER, Production Assistant
AFTON GRANT, Steadicam Operator
CAST MEMBERS FROM THE STRANGER THAN FICTION, IMPROV COMEDY AND THEATRE GROUP
Students enjoy interactive lectures, movie screenings and the production of an original movie whose premiere screening is held during the festival. Students cherish their experiences with the YFW and many have gone on to study movie production in college and beyond.
At the end of the weekend, participants unveil their work on The Music Hall's screen with a special program on Sunday, 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
* Advanced registration required for the Young Filmmakers Workshop.
Click here to register››
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FRIDAY
PRESENTED BY THE NEW HAMPSHIRE FILM & TELEVISION OFFICE
10 A.M. - NOON
As the independent film scene continues to change shape, more filmmakers are looking for alternative distribution and exhibition methods. In doing so, many have rediscovered the means right in their own backyard – via community access television and the Web. Filmmakers are anxiously looking for an audience and at the same time community access television stations are hungry for new and cutting-edge programming. This panel discussion explores what’s happening with today’s community access media, including its bridge to the Internet, and how community access media can be an ideal venue for independent media production and filmmaking. Attendees are encouraged to participate and to offer their ideas, suggestions, and opinions.
PANEL:
JOE CUMMINGS
Co-Creator/Executive Producer, Hollywood New England
Joe highlights regional talent involved in film, music, arts and entertainment on his half-hour talk show "Hollywood New England." Cablecast on community access stations throughout the region and across the nation, his show reaches thousands of viewers. Joe's resume includes work on television shows such as "Cheers," "St. Elsewhere," "Spenser for Hire." His feature film credits include "The Verdict" with Paul Newman, and the Oscar-winning film, "On Golden Pond." He is also the owner of Autumn Drive Productions, LLC.
C. DANIEL FREUND
Producer, Kinney Hill Media Partners/Founder, ShortStreamTV
Daniel is the managing producer for Kinney Hill Media Partners, a Portsmouth, NH digital strategy and production studio. He graduated from the University of New Hampshire with a BA in economics, and immediately began pursuing a career in the media/interactive industries. Most recently, he has begun developing a community-oriented, online media network in Portsmouth featuring local personalities and events, available at http://shortstream.tv. Formerly, he served as a producer with Silver Oven Studios where he was responsible for strategy assignments, copywriting, and project management for clients in the private equity and investment banking industries.
GLENN GARDNER
Independent Filmmaker
An independent producer, Glenn's credits include the 2006 Palme d' Or winner for short films at the Cannes International Film Festival. He holds a BS in Broadcasting & Film from Boston University and an MFA in Film from Columbia University in New York. Currently, he is developing a fictional series intended for distribution on public access stations nationwide.
DOTTIE GROVER
Director of Cable Services, Londonderry Access Television/President, NH Coalition for Community Media
Dottie started her career in PEG access television by producing a video for the Bicentennial opening ceremonies in Annapolis, Maryland. This video now resides in the National Archives in Washington, D.C. After working as a volunteer for three years, Dottie became the coordinator at the Londonderry Access Center in 1988. Hired by the Cable Access Board on a part-time basis, Dottie began her work with five volunteers, up to two hours of weekly programming, and one channel. The Londonderry Access Center now has more than 200 trained volunteers, five employees, and six channels programmed 24/7 with local and imported programs. She was also instrumental in establishing the NH Coalition for Community Media (NHCCM) and has served as president for the last five years.
JULIENNE TURNER
Executive Director, Concord TV
Julienne is an accomplished video production trainer specializing in youth media training. She is an award-winning producer and began working in the field of community television in 1999. Julienne served on the Alliance for Community Media National Board of Directors for four years. In 2006 she moved to Concord from Oregon to take the position of Executive Director at Concord Community TV, which she currently holds.
MODERATOR:
MATTHEW NEWTON
Director, New Hampshire Film & Television Office
In his work directing the state's film and television office, Matthew promotes New Hampshire as a filmmaking destination and supports New Hampshire’s in-state film and video industry. Newton is a 1997 graduate of the film studies program at Keene State College in Keene, NH, where he returned to teach film production in 2003 and 2004. He is formerly a production coordinator and editor at C.2K Entertainment, a commercial production company in Los Angeles, CA and has worked in a variety of capacities on feature film and television projects on the West Coast. Newton is also vice chair on the Concord TV Board of Directors.
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THE TOP 10 LEGAL & BUSINESS CHOICES FOR INDEPENDENT FILMMAKERS
PRESENTED BY THE NH FILM AND TELEVISION OFFICE
1 P.M. - 3 P.M.
This panel will identify and highlight the most important lessons for an independent filmmaker, including entity structure, financing, fundraising, rights agreements, cast, insurance, distribution, music, and others. The panelists will share their "must list" for producing the successful independent film. Attendees are encouraged to participate and to offer their ideas, suggestions, and opinions.
PANEL:
PAUL DURHAM
Chair, Entertainment, Media and Publishing Group, Sheehan Phinney Bass + Green PA
In his law practice, Paul represents individual artists, authors, independent filmmakers and television producers. He assists producers in acquiring the rights to literary properties and structuring private offerings for independent film financing. He also assists companies and entrepreneurs with varied corporate matters including business formations, domestic and international contracts, and intellectual property licensing. Before joining Sheehan Phinney, Paul was senior counsel at Playboy TV International, LLC where he managed international legal affairs and assisted executives in launching branded television networks around the world. Paul is a member of the Board of Trustees of the New Hampshire Writers' Project and serves as the attorney panelist for the Amoskeag Business Incubator’s "Ask-the-Expert" online forum.
JON GARON
Professor of Law, Hamline University School of Law/of counsel Gallagher, Callahan & Gartrell, PC
Jon is an attorney and professor of entertainment, intellectual property and business law. He has extensive practice experience in entertainment law, business planning, copyright, software licensing, data privacy and security, and trademark law. He works closely with filmmakers in all stages of development, production and distribution. He has written numerous books and articles, including "The Independent Filmmaker’s Law & Business Guide to Financing, Shooting, and Distributing Independent and Digital Films," (A Cappella Books, 2d Ed. 2009); "Own It – The Law & Business Guide to Launching a New Business Through Innovation, Exclusivity and Relevance" (Carolina Academic Press 2007); and "Entertainment Law & Practice" (Carolina Academic Press 2005) (supplement 2007).
DENIS MALONEY
Shareholder, Gallagher, Callahan & Gartrell, PC
Denis represents clients on corporate, securities, entertainment and banking matters. His practice includes federal and state securities filings and related disclosure obligations, broker/dealer and investment adviser matters, complex regulatory and compliance matters, and corporate governance and shareholder relations. Denis’ services include production company formations and related LLC operating agreements, private placement memoranda and corporate finance assistance. Denis also maintains an active practice forming and advising non-profit corporations.
MODERATOR:
VAN MCLEOD
Commissioner, New Hampshire Department of Cultural Resources
Van has 40 years of experience producing and directing theater and film as well as producing numerous other events and programs within the arts and entertainment industry. Prior to his job as commissioner, he served as artistic producing director for the Papermill Theatre in Lincoln, NH and was the founder and producer of First Night New Hampshire in Concord. Van was honored by the New Hampshire Film Festival in 2008 and had an annual award named after him for achievement and support of the film industry in NH. In 2007 he won the Lifetime Achievement Award, at the NH Theatre Awards. Van has also won the Granite State Award for outstanding public service, was recognized by Business NH Magazine, "NH Leaders for the 21st Century" in 2000, and has been listed in "Who's Who in Entertainment." He was one of four American Fellows at the Salzburg Seminars, "The Power of Theater: Artistry, Entertainment, and Social Commentary." He won the Gold Aurora Award for his work as director/producer of the documentary film shot in Northern Ireland "Murals; Romanticizing the Violence." He attended the Orson Welles Film School in Cambridge, MA as well as Parsons College in Fairfield, IA. Van lives in Concord, NH with his wife Joan and daughter Chelsea.
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FILM AS AN AGENT OF POSITIVE CHANGE
PRESENTED BY AWARENESS UNLIMITED
3:30 - 5:30 P.M.
What role does film play in our world today? As film is taking on the goal of more than simple entertainment, join a panel of filmmakers to discuss the ability of film to act as an agent of change. Is film an effective means of raising awareness and addressing important issues? Talk with filmmakers who believe it is and are using film to make a difference.
PANEL:
BETH MURPHY
Founder, Principle Pictures
Beth's company is committed to raising awareness about important human rights, international, and social issues while inspiring education and action through entertainment. She has produced programming for the Sundance Channel, History Channel, PBS, Lifetime, Discovery Health, Discovery International and other broadcast outlets. Her first feature documentary, "Beyond Belief," premiered at the Tribecca Film Festival, won numerous festival awards, and is now part of a national outreach campaign to help Afghanistan's war widows and foster understanding between East and West. Murphy is also an author and university professor, and she is the chairperson of the Board of Directors for the International Institute of Boston, an organization that serves immigrants and refugees.
GEORGE KACHADORIAN
Director
George was raised at the end of a dirt road in Woodstock, VT where he attended public high school. After graduating from Georgetown University with a degree in English, he began making documentary films and television. In 2004 "Divining Mom," George's award-winning investigation into his mother's purported paranormal abilities, was broadcast nationally and hailed by Variety as "an impressive non-fiction film debut." In 2005, George received a national Emmy Award nomination - Outstanding Documentary on a Business Topic - for an hour-long program about the New York Stock Exchange titled "Wall Street." In 2008, PBS’ "FRONTLINE/World" released "A Family Erased," George's story about his family's search for answers at the epicenter of the Armenian genocide in modern day Turkey. His work as a freelance producer, cinematographer and editor has appeared on many broadcast and cable stations including ABC, PBS, Bravo, Discovery, The History Channel, and The Travel Channel. He currently lives in Durham, NH with his wife, two small children and one lazy cat.
ERIN ESSENMACHER
Writer, Director, Producer
Erin has more than 10 years of experience in corporate, non-profit and broadcast production with a strong focus on documentary. She began her production career at Hedrick Smith Productions, where she was responsible for research, character development, field production, Web development, and outreach efforts on several prime-time specials for PBS, including "Critical Condition, Juggling Work and Family," and "Rediscovering Dave Brubeck." She has since worked as writer, producer and director on documentary films for PBS, The Discovery Channel, Animal Planet, the History Channel and Court TV. She has worked for non-broadcast clients including Acura, Sony, The Gap, SEIU, and the The Lawyer’s Committee for Civil Rights of the SF Bay Area. Most recently, Erin produced and co-wrote the independent film "MINE" which won the Audience Award for Best Documentary at the South by Southwest Film Festival. Erin has also worked in the political arena for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, the National Organization for Women and EMILY’s List. She splits her time between the San Francisco Bay Area and New York City.
VAN MCLEOD
Commissioner, New Hampshire Department of Cultural Resources
See bio above.
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SATURDAY
DISTRIBUTION AND THE NEW FRONTIER
10 A.M. - NOON
Peter Broderick, in IndieWire, recently wrote: "(In the past year), the Old World of Distribution has continued to decline. The vast majority of filmmakers making Old World deals (in which they give all of their distribution rights to one company for up to 25 years) are ending up dissatisfied, including producers and directors who had previously succeeded in the Old World. Many of them have declared the traditional distribution system broken, and that they are determined to find a new approach." Join us along with a panel of experts and filmmakers to discuss the current models and the direction the market is heading.
PANEL:
MARK URMAN
A veteran film industry executive, Mark has been a leading force in the independent arena for over two decades. In July, he formed Paladin, his latest distribution venture, and the company opened its first title, the highly acclaimed drama, "Disgrace," starring John Malkovich, in September.
For seven years, Urman headed up THINKFilm, a company he co- founded in 2001. THINK’s slate included such acclaimed and successful films as "Spellbound," "The Aristocrats," "Strangers with Candy," "Shortbus," "Avenue Montaigne," and "Half Nelson," which garnered a Best Actor Oscar nomination for its star, Ryan Gosling. In 2004, both "The Story of the Weeping Camel" and "Born Into Brothels" received Oscar nominations in the feature documentary category, with the latter taking home the prize. "Murderball," a double-prize winner at Sundance, was nominated for an Oscar in 2005, as was the Sundance 2007 prizewinner "War/Dance." That same year, "Taxi To The Dark Side" won the Oscar for Best Documentary. More recent films Urman released at THINK included Sidney Lumet’s "Before The Devil Knows You’re Dead," Helen Hunt’s "Then She Found Me," and Werner Herzog’s Oscar-nominated "Encounters At The End of the World." Urman served as executive producer on "Murderball" and "War/Dance."
Urman has also been co-president of Lions Gate Releasing, where he engineered the marketing and distribution of such hits as "Gods and Monsters," "Affliction," "American Psycho," "Dogma," "The Red Violin" and "The Dinner Game," garnering nine Academy Award nominations during his four years with the company. While at Lions Gate, he optioned, developed, and executive produced "Monster’s Ball," for which Halle Berry won the Best Actress Oscar.
Prior to Lions Gate, he served as senior vice president at the international marketing and public relations firm, Dennis Davidson Associates, where he headed the company’s domestic division. His campaigns included landmark independent films such as "The Cook, The Thief, His Wife, and Her Lover," "The Crying Game," "Like Water for Chocolate," "Shine," "Secrets and Lies," and "Breaking the Waves." Before joining DDA in 1989, Urman spent nearly six years as vice president of East Coast publicity at Columbia Pictures and, from 1982-84, he was head of marketing at Triumph Films, Columbia’s specialized film distribution division. He began his career at United Artists, where he spent several years in international marketing and publicity.
JOSH GREEN
VP, Distribution, Emerging Pictures
Josh is responsible for securing new exhibition venues for Emerging’s digital cinema network, now at more than 65 US locations. Josh further coordinates the distribution campaigns for exclusive HD programming playing at EP venues including cultural programs like operas and ballets as well as independent and classic films and other special events. For catalog titles where Emerging controls rights, Josh acts as a sales agent/producer's rep to secure third-party distribution.
He also managed Emerging’s for-hire theatrical distribution business while it was in existence, coordinating campaigns for films including John Sayles’ "Honeydripper;" "Tony N’ Tina’s Wedding," based on the Off Broadway hit; "Vanaja," Rajnesh Domalpalli’s award-winning drama; Warner Home Video’s "Laura Smiles;" and the family comedy, "Red Doors." Josh has had an agency or direct distribution role in more than 50 films. Josh associate produced Sona Jain’s "For Real" and Ann Hu’s "Beauty Remains." He executive produced Kief Davidson’s acclaimed IFC Films documentary "Kassim the Dream," released in 2009. He is executive producing upcoming documentaries from Ramona Diaz, Roger Paradiso, and Daniel Anker on rock band Journey, rappers The Sugar Hill Gang, and director Sidney Lumet, respectively.
CHRISTOPHER HORTON
Cinetic Media
Christopher has been with Cinetic Media in various roles since March 2002. He is currently the head of rights acquisitions for Cinetic Rights Management. CRM was formed in late 2007 as a sister company to Cinetic Media, North America’s premier film sales agency, with a focus on licensing digital rights for filmed content. Under Mr. Horton’s leadership, CRM has acquired digital sales rights for over 300 feature films and the company has quickly become one of the leading content providers to Cable VOD and broadband portals domestically and abroad. Prior to joining Cinetic, Mr. Horton worked in the Business Affairs department of Miramax Films. He received degrees in film studies and psychology from the University of Colorado, Boulder.
BRANT SERSEN
Director
Sersen’s narrative feature film debut, "Blackballed: The Bobby Dukes Story," garnered numerous awards including the Audience Award at the 2004 South by Southwest Film Festival and the Grand Jury Prize at the 2005 Independent Film Festival of Boston. The paintball comedy instantly became a cult favorite. It starred Rob Corddry ("The Daily Show with Jon Stewart," "The Winner") and helped to launch the careers of comic actors Rob Riggle ("Saturday Night Live," "The Daily Show"), Paul Scheer and Rob Huebel (both of "VH1 Best Week Ever," MTV’s "Human Giant"), and Jack McBrayer (NBC’s "30 Rock").
Prior to narrative filmmaking, Sersen directed skateboard videos and achieved critical success with his punk rock documentary "Release," which was acquired for worldwide distribution by Victory Records. Sersen was later commissioned by Fat Wreck Chords to make the documentary "Sick Of It All: The Story So Far" about the legendary New York hardcore band.
MODERATOR:
ERIN TRAHAN
Film Journalist/Editor
A Boston-based freelance writer and editor with a special interest in independent film, Erin has been a frequent contributor to The Independent (which she helps edit), NewEnglandFilm.com (which she edits), The Boston Globe, Teen Voices, Daughters, The Wire, and other regional publications. Her tips for viewing media with youth have been featured on See Jane, Common Sense, and TIME for Kids. She has also written and helped produce several short films, as well as coordinated public forums and film series for Boston Public Library and the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. In addition to her work in film, Erin has more than 10 years of experience working with local, statewide, and national nonprofit organizations. She has helped allocate more than $2 million in grants and has developed, implemented and evaluated numerous nonprofit programs. She served as the Board president for Women in Film & Video/New England and on the board of the YWCA of Grand Rapids.
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AND ACTION!
2:30 P.M. - 4 P.M.
Join a panel of directors and actors to discuss how to bring out the best in each other when working on a film. Hear from directors on how they work with their cast members as well as the actors they direct. This panel will explore the directorial and collaborative processes and the techniques that bring actors' characters and directors' visions to life.
AARON WEIDERSPAHN
Director/Producer
Aaron is the writer/director of either/or film's first feature "The Sensation of Sight," as well as writer/director of their upcoming feature "Someplace Like America." His experience includes 12 years working in film, theatre, music and radio from freelance production jobs on independent films, commercials, and music videos to acting and producing for the stage. He has also toured and recorded with rock bands and been an associate producer for talk radio. He is an avid connoisseur of world cinema, counting Andrei Tarkovsky, Krzysztof Kieslovski, Robert Bresson, Carl Dreyer, and Theo Angelopoulos among his favorite directors.
ANN CUSACK
Actress "Crooked Lane," "The Sensation of Sight"
Raised in Evanston, IL, Ann started training at age nine at The Piven Theatre Workshop studying improvisation and Story Theater with Joyce and Bryne Piven. She received her BFA from New York University's Tisch School of the Arts where her other influence was her teacher David Mamet. Her big "break" came when Penny Marshall cast her in the feature film "A League of Their Own" as the illiterate ball player Shirley Baker. She hasn’t stopped working since.
Ann's film credits include "Accepted" with Justin Long, "Sensation of Sight" starring David Strathairn, "Ace Ventura Pet Detective Jr.," HBO’s "Earth to the Moon" as Jan Armstrong, "Tank Girl" starring Lory Petty and Naomi Watts, "Multiplicity" with Michael Keaton and Andie McDowell, and "What Planet are You From" opposite Annette Benning and Gary Shandling for director Mike Nichols. She has worked with her siblings John and Joan in "Gross Pointe Blank," "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil," and "America’s Sweetheart." She can also be remembered in "Birdcage," "Renaissance Man," "Cannes Man," and "Stigmata" starring Patricia Arquette and Gabriel Byrne to name a few. Ann can now be seen seen in "The Informant" starring Matt Damon and "Crooked Lane" written and directed by Chase Bailey.
Some of Ann's television credits include "The Unit," "Boston Legal," HBO’s "Little Britain," "Greek," "Brothers and Sister," "Army Wives," "Close To Home," "Grey’s Anatomy," "The Ghost Whisperer," "ABC’s Movie of the Week," "Fatal Contact," "Six Feet Under," "Ally McBeal," "Fraiser," "Star Trek Enterprise," "Charmed," and "One Tree Hill." She has also starred in Lifetime’s "Maggie," NBC’s "The Jeff Foxworthy Show" and the critically acclaimed series from David E. Kelly, "The Brotherhood of Poland, New Hampshire" as Chris Penn’s wife.
Ann also sings with blues band, Blues Adjacent (www.bluesadjacent.com), and is involved with arts organization Working Classroom; OneVoice, an initiative supporting peace in the Middle East; and The Sunshine Kids Foundation.
CHASE BAILEY
Director/Producer "Crooked Lane"
Chase started acting and directing in film and theatre in the 1960s, which then developed into his interest in production and all other creative aspects of the industry. In 2000, while working with Mr. Mudd Productions in L.A. - specifically John Malkovich - Chase had the unique opportunity to gain inside knowledge of the art of filmmaking. Chase is now the owner of the production company, Left Bank Films. Chase has been executive producer on films such as "The Libertine" (2004), with Johnny Depp, John Malkovich and Samantha Morton; "Drunkboat" (2005), with John Goodman and Dana Delany; and "The Life Before Her Eyes" (2007), starring Uma Thurman and Evan Rachel Wood.
"The Stag Hunt" (2007) was Chase's first return to acting since stage work in the '60s. He has since had the opportunity to work as an actor several times, but his real love is writing and directing. His first film was "Here We Are" (1972). Recently, he has completed his second film, "Crooked Lane" (2009), starring Ann Cusack and Brett Cullen. Chase recently optioned, "The Tent," a novella written by Gary Paulsen, which is currently in development (script) to be Chase's next film. Production is scheduled to begin in early 2010.
BRETT CULLEN
Actor
A veteran of film and television, Brett has appeared in a number of feature films including "Apollo 13," "Something to Talk About," and "The Replacements." Brett will be seen next in "Red Dawn" for MGM. Most recently, Brett was in "The Life Before Her Eyes" directed by Vadim Perelman, and "The Burning Plain," directed by Guillermo Arriaga. On television, Brett has starred in six different series including "Young Riders," "Orleans," "Simple Life," and "Legacy." Most recently, Cullen recurred on the NBC series "Friday Night Lights." Cullen is also known for his character "Goodwin" in ABC’s Lost. He has also recurred on "Damages."
LANCE GREENE
Actor/Producer
Lance has acted in and produced numerous film and theatre productions in Boston and New York. He recently produced and starred in the award-winning independent film "On Broadway" which garnered three best film awards at three major film festivals. Lance most recently acted in the John Wells-directed film "The Company Men" in two scenes opposite Tommy Lee Jones and Ben Affleck. Lance is in the process of launching North East Film Partnerships which will offer a wide range of production services to studio and independent film productions.
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THE ART OF THE PITCH AND DEVELOPING YOUR PROJECT
4 P.M. - 5:30 P.M.
Join a panel of both independent and studio development execs as well as independent producers and filmmakers for a discussion about the development process, how to perfect your pitch, and what gets the green light! This panel is designed to give you concrete tools on how to get your stories off the page and onto the set.
DARREN GOLDBERG
Producer
Prior to starting Atlantic Pictures, Darren produced numerous independent films including "Manito" (Sundance 2002); "Cry Funny Happy" (Sundance 2003); "ROOM" (Sundance 2005, Cannes 2005); "Gardener of Eden" (Tribeca 2007) directed by Kevin Connolly; and "The Cake Eaters" (Tribeca 2007) directed by Mary Stuart Masterson. He was nominated for an Independent Spirit Award for his work on "ROOM." Darren has also served as production supervisor on films such as Bruno Dumont’s "29 Palms;" Andrew Niccol’s "Lord of War" starring Nicolas Cage and Ethan Hawke; and "Whatever Lola Wants," produced by Pathé Films. This spring, he served as the New York line producer for Matthew Vaughn's upcoming film "Kick Ass," starring Nicolas Cage.
MAX WORK
Vice President of Development, 1821 Pictures
1821 Pictures has a non-exclusive partnership with Radar Pictures, and both entities were the executive producers of "Swing Vote" starring Kevin Costner (2008); "The Box," starring Cameron Diaz (coming November 2009); and "The Invention of Lying" starring Ricky Gervais and Jennifer Garner (coming October 2009). Max wrote for television on NBC’s "Homeland Security" and UPN’s "Seven Days," and is a member of the Writers Guild of America, West. One of Max’s first jobs was as the set production assistant on the NBC sitcom "Jenny," starring Jenny McCarthy. That was probably the best job he has ever had… and ever will have. Max graduated from Syracuse University in 1996 and was born and raised in New London, NH.
SEAN FINEGAN
Creative Executive
Sean is the creative executive at Joel Silver production shingles Silver Pictures and Dark Castle Entertainment. An East Coast native, Finegan started at the company in 2007, working on projects including "Orphan" and the upcoming Denzel Washington film "The Book of Eli."
Silver Pictures is producer Joel Silver’s Warner Bros.-based production company responsible for the "Lethal Weapon" and "Matrix" franchises and the upcoming film "Sherlock Holmes," starring Robert Downey, Jr. Dark Castle is the privately financed genre arm of Silver Pictures that most recently produced "Orphan" and "RocknRolla."
BUZZ MCLAUGHLIN
Executive Producer
Buzz was executive producer on either/or film's first feature "The Sensation of Sight" and will also serve in that capacity on their upcoming feature "Someplace Like America." He is a playwright and screenwriter. His work has garnered numerous national awards including the National Play Award for his play "Sister Calling My Name." He has also written for television and is the author of the best-selling book "The Playwright’s Process," a how-to manual on writing a successful script. He is the founder and former Artistic Director of Playwrights Theatre of New Jersey, a professional Actors’ Equity theatre company that has three times been cited a Major Arts Organization by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, the council’s highest honor. He holds a BA in economics and an MA and PhD in theatre and dramatic literature. For many years, he was a professor and playwright-in-residence at Drew University.
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SUNDAY
ROLL CREDITS!
10:30 A.M. - NOON
This panel focuses on how to make the leap into making movies and seeing your name on the big screen. Join a panel of working crew members to discuss the various avenues you can take to get involved in the film industry. Stay for the credits!
PANEL:
NICHOLAS J. KOLOSKI
Location Manager/Scout
A proud third generation resident of Claremont, NH, Nicholas is a New Hampshire-based location manager/scout. He is known for his location scouting and management for the films "Live Free or Die," "The Sensation of Sight," "Love Comes Lately," "Killing Dinner," and "Crooked Lane," - all filmed here in the Granite State. Nicholas also provides location scouting to ABC News as well as independent and studio productions. In addition to his production background, Nicholas has more than 10 years experience in motion picture exhibition. He is a part-time theater service technician for Boston Culinary Group's New England holdings, specializing in designs, builds, acquisitions and repairs of movie theaters and related equipment. He also prides himself on his list of personal contacts which include many studio representatives and industry-related individuals. Nicholas is a volunteer firefighter and small business owner whose portfolio includes a restaurant and martini bar, among other ventures. Nicholas is a self-proclaimed serial entrepreneur and is a member of both the NH Film Commission and the Governor's Task Force for the Recruitment and Retention of a Younger Workforce.
GREGORY SMITH
Producer
Greg made his debut as a producer with the film "Crooked Lane." Prior to this, Greg paid the bills as a first assistant director on such films as "Furry Vengance," "Sunshine Cleaning," "Killing Dinner," "On Broadway," and "The Sensation of Sight." Greg was also a part of such critically-acclaimed films as "Little Miss Sunshine," "Adaptation," and "Being John Malkovich." He has been nominated twice by the Directors Guild of America for outstanding directorial achievement in commercial production with directors Spike Jonze and Dante Ariola, and once in feature films with Jonathon Dayton and Valerie Faris for "Little Miss Sunshine."
SHAWN CARROLL
Raised in rural Westmoreland, NH, by two hippy artists, Shawn is a graduate of the University of New Hampshire, The American Academy of Dramatic Arts, and the School of Visual Arts in New York. Shawn spent five years as a commercial art director in New York and L.A., and later settled into a creative and comfy, (maybe too comfy) job as project manager for Martha Stewart. Soon the golden hand cuffs, and making "real money," began to wear on him, so Shawn set out for the indie film trade... and has been happily starving ever since. "Boys Don't Cry" was his launching pad for other projects such as "You Can Count on Me," "Sunshine State," and "The Sensation of Sight." "Like Dandelion Dust" is his latest feature, starring Mira Sorvino and Barry Pepper. Recently, Shawn returned to Portsmouth to design Chase Bailey's "Crooked Lane." Shawn is also a certified farrier, and can shoe your horse between takes.
PATRICK RUTH
Director of Photography
A commercial DP working out of Boston, Patrick has shot spots for McDonald's, PSNH, Subway, and Papa Gino's among others. Feature credits include "Long Distance" and "Johnny Slade's Greatest Hits."
MARK CONSTANCE
Producer and Director, Partner in a713production
Constance is a partner in a713production with his wife Bethany. He and his producing partner,
Tracey Becker, executive produced "Crooked Lane," a paranormal drama set in NH and
based on a true story passed down over the years. Constance and Becker also produced "Killing
Dinner," a black comedy about a trio of ex-assassins involved in a love triangle. Both films
were shot on in the New Hampshire Seacoast Area. Constance looking forward to reuniting with
Executive Producer Buzz McLaughlin and Director Aaron Wiederspahn on their upcoming
film "Someplace Like America." The film is based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning
book "Journey to Nowhere." Constance produced the film "The Sensation of
Sight" in his first collaboration with McLaughlin and Wiederspahn. Constance and
Becker are in development on Mitch Ganem's "Losing Jerry" and his producing
projects include "Diary of a Jealous Man." Constance has two dream projects he
would like to bring to life: York, ME Author Michael Kimball’s "Green Girls"
and Roland Merullo’s "Revere Beach Boulevard." Mark's foray into directing
commercials began on a Maidenform Bra spot and he has produced and directed multiple
music videos. Constance has a slate of films he is developing to direct
including "The Provider" and "Medillia's Lament." Constance’s
other production credits include "Being John Malkovich" where he was
part of the directing team nominated for Outstanding Directorial Achievement in
a Feature Film by the Director’s Guild of America. Other production credits
include: "Terminator 3: The Rise of the Machines," "The Company
Men," "Charlie's Angels," and "Bad Boys II." Mark has
been a member of the DGA since 1993.
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EVERYTHING YOU ALWAYS WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT SCREENWRITING
PRESENTED BY SUSAN KOUGELL
12:30 P.M. - 2 P.M.
Whether you are just in the idea stage for your first screenplay or are writing your tenth script, this seminar will address your questions and demystify how both the independent and Hollywood film industries really work. Learn the inside secrets about what movie executives demand in a winning screenplay.
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SOCIAL & NEW MEDIA: THE CHEAPER FILM PROMOTION ALTERNATIVE
2:30 P.M. - 4 P.M.
Long gone are the days of small-budget, independent films toiling in obscurity. Just like small businesses, independent films are embracing social media and new media technology as a low-cost way to promote their films. In this fun, informative panel, you'll learn how to build your fan base, generate buzz, and create demand. As your efforts begin to "go viral" across social platforms, driven by your growing network, your film also rises to the top in awareness. This makes it possible to get your film distributed locally and, as your campaign grows, nationally.
Questions this panel will answer:
Where to start?
What are the tools available?
How to build an aura around your project?
Who is doing this well now?
Can I make something go viral?
How much is this going to cost me?
Should I create web only content?
How do I differentiate myself?
How transparent should I be?
Will people care?
PANEL:
LESLIE POSTON
Founder, Uptown Uncorked/Co-Founder Film POP!/Author/Blogger/Social Media Enabler
Leslie, known as @geechee_girl on Twitter, is co-author of "Twitter for Dummies." She is the founder and CEO of Uptown Uncorked social media and business development consultancy, and co-founder of Social Mic, where social media meets local musical talent.
Leslie is also a co-founder of Film POP! with fellow panelist Amy Greenlaw. As a speaker and leading authority in social networking, new media, brand and business development, she is the founder and CEO of Uptown Uncorked social media and business development consultancy, and co-founder of Social Mic, where social media meets local musical talent. Under the auspices of her company, Uptown Uncorked, Leslie is a long-time consultant to the entertainment industry for new media development and marketing.
AMY GREENLAW
Co-Founder and President of Film POP!
Amy brings a passion for networking and production as well as an extensive knowledge of video and new media to any project or company she works on. She has recently been called upon to share her knowledge as a speaker at such events as South by Southwest Interactive 2009, PodCamp Boston 2008, NAB 2009, and New Marketing Summit 2008.
CHASE BAILEY
Director/Producer "Crooked Lane"
See bio above.
MARK CONSTANCE
Producer and Director, Partner in a713production
See bio above.
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