“Reel Conversations” highlights filmmakers featured in the 21st Annual International Real to Reel Film Festival. On this episode of “Reel Conversations,” Thomas Manning speaks with filmmakers connected to the short film “Mike.” “Mike” is the story on an intellectually challenged man choosing to follow his dream by visiting a distant shore. Kent Smith (writer, producer, director), Patrick G. Keenan (actor – “Mike”) and Steve Saxon (cinematography) share the stories of the making of this Real to Reel Film Fest selection. The Cleveland County Arts Council will host nearly 50 films in a virtual festival format from Sept. 9 -Oct. 9. For over two decades, Real to Reel has showcased thought-provoking films from around the world and offers opportunities for cinema-lovers to embrace the independent vision of this unique art form. For more information on the Real to Reel International Film Festival, visit realtoreelfest.com For more information on “Mike” visit dreammike.com.
Blogs
Directing a commercial with Claire Robinson and the Freirich Family /
Oh, what a day with Freirich! When you have a chance to direct a commercial with talented people like cooking show host Claire Robinson, you have to be excited because you know that she will give you all the energy and excitement that she brings every day to her cooking show on the Food Network. Then you add the creative thinking and execution of working with the BD&H team and the Limerick Studios group; this was one of those times that it was so easy to say "Yes."
In a fun and exciting day on location, we created a "How to cook Corn Beef" video and commercial for Freirich that will air in Boston and New York City. It just shows that when you believe you can do something and have the right team all things are possible.
Reading the Script /
One of the great things that I get to do is work on great TV shows and incredible movies. It's an interesting part of what I have been able to do over the years. With it comes a family like an experience that is nothing like anything else you can experience as a freelancer.
The crews that I have work on over the years have helped me in so many ways. These are the best of the best, but more importantly is the fact that they willing to pass useful information on about the process of filmmaking and motion images. It's almost impossible to think that I have been able to work with some of the most incredible directors, writers, actors, gaffers, designers, camera crew, and many more departments over these years. With each project, you continue to learn from the best Directors of Photography and the incredible Directors who each bring their styles to the tables. Thanks to each person that I have had the privilege to work with over the years.
Making it Right /
When you are a photographer, you can have all kinds of request for photo shoots. Some of them are exciting, and some just get to the point type of shoots, but for me, I have found that you shouldn't do a shoot unless you are committed to the shoot.
When you get a call to create the cover image of a major magazine, it always gets your attention, and this was one that will reach into my backyard. American Banker was looking to create an image that was business like, but also beautiful. The cover shot had to be simple, but able to have a place for lots of text. Bank of America Executive Michelle Moore was the recipient of the highest award, and she was named the Digital Banker of the Year by the magazine.
It was our goal to capture something that would look appealing for the magazine, but also show her personality, and also her strength as woman banker. Well, it helps when you a beautiful person, and someone who was willing to take direction, but also show here style on the shoot. The hardest part for the art director was choosing the right images from all the different selections that we shot that day. We are so lucky to have been a part of this great project with the talented crew at American Banker.
Bank of America Ad for Digital Banker of the Year, Michelle Moore
Living Every Moment /
When you start a blog, it's because you have something to say. On the day after a good friends passes away, it always causes us to think about our own thoughts for living. Brian "Sandman" Sanders was a guy that we all liked, and admired for his smile. No matter what kind of day you were having, it was a smile and laugh that would bring you back to reality.
The image has always been that one thing that brought me back to lighter moments. Looking through a lens can transport you to another place, and every once in a while you get to step out and make more impact with it than even you expected . With the start of this new blog, I hope to showcase some of those moments that bring me back to the fun of photography and video. Who know's what will show up on this blog or even who might show up. Let me know what you want to see, and we might make it happen.
Brian "Sandman" Sanders will always be remembered for his friendship.