LShap Productions

THEORYLAND IS IN!!!

2008-09-30T13:54:00.000-07:00

"THEORYLAND" has been admitted into the film 106 class at UCSB.

This means it will be made!!!

here is a quick summary of the project:

Theoryland is a part live action, part animation adventure comedy
about a young film student, Becca, who gets trapped in her animated
film. Her travels home include (but are certainly not limited to)
playing with adorable woodland critters, sailing with a charming sea
captain, and fighting off flying robot chickens. During this
spontaneous adventure through her imagination, Becca learns a lot
about the meaning of art and film, the importance of trusting others,
and the thrill of unbounded creativity.

production update

2008-08-21T20:40:00.000-07:00

The holocaust video is completed.

Draft two of Theoryland is completed (it is significantly more funny, but also 5 pages longer, so we will have to cut about 10 pages).

greenscreen films on Youtube

2008-08-16T12:19:00.000-07:00

So now you can watch all three Greenscreen '08 films on you tube on it's own channel. This will also be the home for the future Greenscreen films:

GreenScreen Youtube Channel

upcoming films

2008-08-15T15:24:00.000-07:00

Because I've seen all the movies I care to that are currently in theaters, it was nice to see this photo gallery of upcoming Fall films. Many interesting flicks here...big actors and good concepts. Very exciting! Take a look.

more boggler

2008-08-14T21:51:00.000-07:00

Theoryland update

2008-08-13T17:45:00.000-07:00

Becca's "Woodland Critters" are being conceptualized and drawn!

We may be able to apply to be an AS Group and ask the campus for funding!

word boggle!

2008-08-13T17:28:00.000-07:00

This is just an example of something you can do on THIS WEBSITE.
It's fun to play with!

Theoryland update

2008-08-07T16:45:00.000-07:00

Draft two is being written.

UCIRA Grant got back to me that November 1st is my deadline to submit a grant proposal, so that's another 2000 dollar possibility for us.

photo art

2008-08-06T15:28:00.000-07:00

I recently stumbled across an intro to photography class in the class schedule for fall and remembered that the reason I took Art 1A (visual literacy) in winter of freshman year, was so i could eventually take some of the studio art classes. So hopefully if my schedule permits, I will be able to enroll in that class for the fall quarter.

This weekend I took lots of pictures (basically served as the official skim boarding photographer for my friends) and below are my three favorites, which actually captured more of the beach surroundings, rather than the skimming. I plan on framing these to put up in my room next year because I really like how the colors and lighting came out.

final cut

2008-08-06T15:26:00.000-07:00

I started learning final cut this weekend and it was really fun. I only know the basics, but now I feel more comfortable in the editing lab and feel like these simple skills will help me for future projects. I will definitely try to learn more once I start school but just getting a hint of it in order to edit the holocaust video was really fulfilling.

cake for thought

2008-07-23T00:25:00.000-07:00

So apparently somehow, when trying to get to my blog, Mariana (woo shoutout!) came across this blog. And it's absolutely hilarious. Cake has little to do with film, but these cakes certainly shouldn't have been green-lit!

Well if anything, I'm glad a detour from my blog is something so amusing...

CLICK HERE

AND HERE

wait...I do edit?

2008-07-21T19:43:00.000-07:00

Well not quite yet, but getting closer by the day.

So today I filmed a Holocaust competition video...I interviewed four teens girls and had them respond to Anne Frank quotes...only didn't even tell them the subject of the documentary. I wanted to get an unbiased, natural response to synthesize how the voices of girls of today may connect to the voices of the past, in specific for this case, the voice of Anne Frank. The competition calls for a video under five minutes pertaining to viewing The Holocaust through a 21st century lens.

I am more of a producer, so I planned all the people and the location, printed the quotes, figured the concept...etc. Michael operated the camera and sound...he also edits really well. BUT when we finished, Michael suggested that I do the first edit...eek. Now, I don't know if he ever reads this (I doubt it and in this case I think I put up the last post about editing last night...but good timing!) So since I don't really have the technical means to do it at home, and I'm going up to SB next week, I'm gonna commit a day to messing around with this. Kelsey (love her!) said she will help be learn the basics to at least do a first edit then maybe Michael will step in and actually make it good haha. Anyways I'm just happy this gives me a reason to learn or at least dip my feet in the water, so to speak.

oh yeah at the end, they all suggested I get in front of the camera...it was actually really fun and I think I will use some of my footage!

editing

2008-07-20T21:46:00.000-07:00

"I don't edit."

An unfortunate thing to have to say....I need to learn how to use final cut...at least the basics because I want to be able to jump in and help out with my projects in the editing lab. And animation too if I produce an animation.

It's too easy to say "that's not my thing" but it's silly to be in school for a discipline and rule out portions of it just because you haven't learned yet. It's not too late. How do you think people know how to edit well now? Because they learned like a year or two ago! So I am making a decision to learn when I have free time over the quarter so I don't regret a skill that is available for me.

"I want to learn to edit..."

...that sounds much better

new business cards

2008-07-18T17:34:00.000-07:00

design by the very talented Erica Kehlet ("EK")

the idea

2008-07-16T20:14:00.000-07:00

Something to remember is that film making is all about a good idea. That's basically the key with anything in life that is creative or business-like.

That's why I think producing for television would be cool..because those are the creators of an idea; truly harmonious with part of the definition that I always use for producers, that it's the person who sees the project from the beginning to the end, until it has reached it's goals and potential.

At the Writer's Guild presentation with Will Ferrell, the moderator asked how he likes producing and when asked what a producer does, he did a great bit about it. I love that this question comes up literally at every panel discussion or interview I go to...It's kinda annoying to be working towards a profession that is so questioned, but then again, some things that are always so clear and defined are either overlooked or taken for granted.

Anyways bottom line is Will Ferrell is hilarious beyond belief and a good idea not only goes a long way, it is the way.

p.s. Sometimes I wonder about how creating a film is similar to creating a business or managing a store. Sometimes I think it would be really fun to run a team business, a company or restaurant.

This picture caught my eye because it shows the chaos in ideas but the singular, upright nature of the person allows for hope that there is a way to organize among chaos, which is really sometimes just an overflow of creativity. After our rough cut for Chimes, I sat my crew down for a 4 hour meeting or "white board session" in which we discussed and outlined and decided on all the changes in editing that we needed. It was an overwhelming task but we literally all left there so happy that we sorted through everything and gave each other hugs as we left. The point is that the man in this picture is just a piece of the mural. If he did it all himself, he is not alone, because others will look and learn from it. Perhaps he is making his first stroke right now; perhaps he has a crew behind him of a bunch of other "chalk drawers."

An idea is a group effort, even if it comes from one person at first.

Now pick up a piece of chalk and make that first stroke.

stumble upon art

2008-07-11T23:30:00.000-07:00

For the record, it's people like this, that make me want to be more artistic...

Take a look.

http://okaydave.com

His multi-talented portfolio is the perfect blend between the intimate abyss that is one's creativity and the external workings of life. Mixing music, film, drawing, graphic design, and more...
I especially like how his "about me" is utterly self-absorbed, but sooo good. I've never seen anything like that, where someone's bio doesn't annoy me, but actually makes them more endearing.

I usually I don't feature this kind of thing on my blog but I think he deserves these props, plus I would like to remember that I saw this because watching his work really made me realize how mixed media is something very important to me, to not get stuck in one medium and to always welcome collaborators and new ideas.

Damn. this guy is talented. I'm just gonna drop his name here (Dave Werner) so if he ever googles his name, he'll see that I am complimenting him and maybe one day design a website for me lol.

oh the fall brings so many choices

2008-07-02T20:43:00.000-07:00

When I finished producing Chimes, I considered my next logical step was to produce a 106...I told myself that my second year I should gain experience, then do a 106. Well I'm all set for that and hopefully Theoryland can make it to there, but I've also been thinking about back-up/alternate options. I have built up 106 so much in my mind as to think I HAVE to make one, and yes, I really do in my time here as a major, but if it's not the right project, it's not the right time. I told myself that even if Theoryland doesn't get in, I would just try and produce someone else's project...but now I am more skeptical about that thought. I think I would want to produce an animation, so perhaps with the right people, and a great idea, I would jump on a project post-pitching. But if it's not right for some reason, I'm thinking "no" because to produce a project is a very serious idea to me; I would want to put my all into it. That's my thought for now, yet again once I step in that production hallway, I may think differently, we shall see.

As I start again with Greenscreen, I am reminded how much time and commitment it takes, so that makes me excited that even if Theoryland doesn't get in, I will still have my "in" with production; and even better because lately I have been really into collaborating and facilitating, even more than making my own art. For example I have lately thought of the job world of agents and management...something I never really thought of before in terms of the entertainment business.

So here are the options:

(1) If Theoryland gets in:

-106
-Greenscreen (this will be the case no matter what)
-Cam Con

(2)* If Theoryland doesn't get in (even thought I hope it does!)

-Get a job at Campbell Hall theatre (they offered me a job during reel loud; I like the people, and it gets me back in the theatre)
-Greenscreen
-Cam Con

*And for Option #2, the thing for me to think about is that I might be more prone to work on IVDV (which I feel an obligation to do so because I practically started it; and REEL LOUD (which has been really close to my heart since I started UCSB).
-Reel loud begins in the winter, which would interfere with 106 in terms of priority.
-I think this year IVDV may be in the winter

If I produced Reel Loud, I would want that to be my priority for spring(but hopefully I can talk Joe into creating a new system of leadership, so instead of one producer, there are 4 {like IVDV}, that way there is more team work, rather than a faulty dictatorship like this year.

-And 106 gives me no time for a job, in conjunction with Greenscreen...so having a job would be pretty nice, especially come Reel Loud time in terms of making a film- for Reel Loud, making a film is magical...I want to be on the committee and make a film; I know that that causes some issues...even though I don't think it caused much for me this past year, but there is a huge difference in making a film and making the festival...I don't know if I would be able to relinquish the magic of making a film so that's something to think about too.

So there are some things to think about; i guess getting those options on paper may clear things up for me soon...but essentially I can't really plan much of this because everything is based on what happens after the pitches.

It's just so exciting I have all these options, yet a little overwhelming that I will have to choose my priorities and annoying because I can't do everything!

If anyone actually read this and understands, and you have any comments or thoughts, let me know, otherwise here's to a lengthy "note-to-self!"

summer update

2008-06-26T13:37:00.000-07:00

Just thought I would post an update about what I'm working on for the summer.

Last weekend I helped out on set of the DIRECTOR web-isode series, Episode 5.

This summer, I am in the stages of pre-production for the film I plan to pitch for the 106 film class in the fall. It is a script written for Film Studies 192 A, about a student who falls into her animated film, met with film theorists along the way...in a trippy adventure setting.

Pre-production mainly entails, honing down the script, putting together a budget, and putting together a crew.

So far, my crew that is set is Samantha Cohen as director, Leigh Mierke and Erica Pearsons as cinematographers, and head artist, Simon Estrada. I look forward in securing an editor soon, as well as a team of animators; a production manager is still iffy as well. It is very difficult to get people to really commit because everyone in the below the line jobs would like to see what else is being pitched before they decide what to work on. But, the cool thing is, that this script is really solid so people seem to be reacting to it really well. I plan on, a week before the pitch, holding auditions for the main actress, and perhaps putting out a casting call for the adult actors, that way if we get in, we can get the ball rolling. This would also be the time to do interviews for an Art Director and sound people. I figure if it doesn't get in, we just tell people that is a possibility ahead of time, but if it does we will rock it so nicely because we will practically be ready to plan test shoots and weekend 1 of filming. i figure too much waiting around is just an excuse to be lazy.

Lastly, soon I will be starting my work as an undergraduate executive producer/creative director (haven't quite figured that out yet lol) for Greenscreen. Greenscreen is the environmental media initiative that supported Chimes of Gaviota. I will now take on a broader role; no longer producing a specific film (because hopefully this whole 106 plan will work out), but instead will be helping all the projects as they create media geared towards local environmental issues.

Oh yea and then there is Cam Con. Seems like I got myself into that one too haha. This will be it's debut year, as a weekend, or week-long seminar/fair/workshop geared toward lighting/gaffers/cinematographers. I think I will help organize that event. Oh boy.

Phew...and you wonder why I haven't updated in so long.

2008-06-17T12:35:00.000-07:00

Chimes of Gaviota or I've Got the Real Estate Blues now has a website:

www.chimesofgaviota.com

Watch the entire film online!

DVDS are now available too. Contact me or the website if you would like to order a copy.

Film Contest

2008-06-17T12:27:00.000-07:00

This is an upcoming contest that my sister told me about hosted by the Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust. Take a look HER E, there are nice cash prizes.

tail end of the quarter

2008-05-26T11:51:00.000-07:00

Film production for my sophomore year is officially over. Reel Loud was amazing. I got to call the whole show as stage manager...something I haven't done since high school. It was such a great feeling, even though I had no preparation...it was like a spontaneous and surprisingly organized show for me in terms of the films and light/sound cues. I realized on Friday how much I miss theatre. Reel loud is a really good combination of the two because on the actual show, film and theatre meet; in addition to art and music.

To be honest I really did work myself a bit too hard this quarter. I thought the last two with Chimes was busy and tough...but oh boy. I would say never make your own reel loud, work on a few others, and plan two film festivals, but it was sooo worth it. When I see everything come to fruition, my recollection of stress almost goes away. What I love is that I'll get a break right now (besides all the papers I have to right in the next two weeks) and for me, a break just means a build-up of more creative energy. Soon I will be so ready to start another project. I am already getting excited for the script that I have begun writing with Leigh for 192. I can already see how self-reflexive it is going to be, which is kinda overdone, but in this case is just a true catharsis.

Things I learned from Reel Loud:

Work hard and it will make a difference
It's all about planning ahead
Don't be afraid to be over-prepared, even if others think it's silly because they will be thanking you later.
Align yourself with people as hard-working and responsible as you.
Stand up against injustice and poor treatment by crew members
Have fun
Don't forget the importance of personality, even in the grand scale of a large event
Keep that romanticism of Art.
My first writing/directing experience!
How to cut and splice film and use a projector!

Reel Loud and Twigs

2008-05-11T21:47:00.000-07:00

All the films I worked on this Reel Loud Season, are officially in: Jesus Blues, Doodles, and Twigs and Tracks. Twigs and Tracks is a little more near and dear to me, since I wrote, produced, and directed it. It will be premiering in two weeks. I may not be able to see it that night, because I will be stage managing backstage, but hopefully it will be legit. Let's just see if I can edit it, put together a beatles cover band, and organize a unicycle stunt in a week...!

IVDV this Saturday!

2008-05-06T12:54:00.000-07:00

Film Studies 192A: Week 5

2008-04-29T17:12:00.000-07:00

reinvigorate by melody

2008-04-28T23:34:00.000-07:00

I can feel the reasons why I want this to be completed, but there are physical things that are holding me back. This isn't about the physical, this is about "that feeling." I can never describe that feeling because it is so special to me that I have never even tried to explain it. Somewhere the generalizing to say "that feeling" makes it known to me that it is too special and too well known for me to even externalize or find any physical meaning to it. I hear the three songs and get nervous thinking how this image can be manifested with those melodies and "that feeling." It's the physical setbacks and the un-confidence that may hold me back. I don't like being un-optomisitc. I am not, but for some reason I seem to be right now!

All I can do is wait and hope, then work work work, and realize I put so much emotion and thought in to this that either way it was meant for something and I can be proud. I am amazed how pride so often in this time comes from places that I would never justify for myself but those people who do source their pride from illegitimate reasonings, get away with and mask their invalid power. How often am I tricked to think I am lower than these invalid claims of confidence. My modesty hides from me, how much I deserve. This prompts me not to be more arrogant, but I need to remember the way in which I do things and that my intentions are personal and emotional. I am so contradictory and "deep" that any explanations that I try to give just sound shallow. The deeper I think, the denser my ideas sound as I externalize them. I just need to remember that difference is not wrong, and things that are fully exposed, even though they are known or somehow "tradition" does not mean they are invalid, but should not make me feel like I am invalid.

"That feeling" right now feels good and it kind of only comes when I am alone, and sadly, when I am feeling a little vulnerable. It is when I am quiet and can clearly remember how these ideas come to me and why I find them special enough to initiate.

Film Studies 192A: Week 4

2008-04-27T22:52:00.000-07:00

imMEDIAte grasp

2008-04-24T14:33:00.000-07:00

teaming up

2008-04-24T14:24:00.000-07:00

IVDV and Reel Loud

2008-04-23T17:58:00.001-07:00

I'm part of planning TWO film festivals this month, which are both in May. Actually the submission screening day of one, is the date of the event for the other haha. Here are the submissions and a brief description of each:

(First Annual)
Submission date: Friday, April 25th
Festival Date: May 10th @IV Theater
Digital Film Festival
Various categories; prizes and awards for each

(17th Annual)
Submission date: May 9th
Festival Date: May 23rd@ Campbell Hall
Silent Films with live musical accompaniment
This year's theme: Past, Present and Future Cinema

Submit! Play! Attend!

Film Studies 192 A: Week 3

2008-04-21T13:01:00.000-07:00

Film Studies 192A: Week Two

2008-04-15T13:33:00.000-07:00

Film Studies 192A: Week One

2008-04-15T13:24:00.000-07:00

filmy update

2008-04-15T12:58:00.000-07:00

This weekend I began on-set production of my new short film. Here are some of the highlights!

workin it

2008-04-08T01:50:00.000-07:00

Responsibility comes a long way. If you prove to someone that you are dedicated and responsible, they won't forget. They will come to you for future projects. When you are entrusted in a project to lead yourself you will see how important it is to find responsible people to support and surround your project. Working with irresponsible people is frustrating but a good lesson nonetheless...

so we can share

2008-03-29T22:58:00.000-07:00

I'm currently really into the idea of parallel representation of art... how different types of art characterize one another and how various forms interact.

A friend of mine said "we see all."

We have the ability to take in all. But we see different. And our output reveals this.

Interdisciplinary art is the future. no lines or separation.

Stop saying you are not an artist.

If you can think and feel and make then you are. you are not pretentious for admitting that. And I'm not saying to say "I'M AN ARTIST!!!" But what is the point in limited language and limiting what you call yourself?

Language is art. Don't censor yourself or how other people should characterize you.

We all specialize or are drawn to different facets for a reason.
Now can we please share?
k thanks :)

chit chat of substance

2008-03-28T22:21:00.000-07:00

There's some people who I can just really talk to about anything. I don't mean like sentimental or emotional talk about anything, like regular "everything" conversation. Talking in-depth about simple things, really gets into the core of ideas and thoughts; I feel elevated, like that the conversation wouldn't be any more important or significant if about war or famine than about a song or a sign.

These are the people who are good writers and directors; ones who understand the importance of really developing characters and the fact that the little things can really come to be pertinent overall. This development seeps through a whole production and disseminates the autour theory because the story of one is shared and mingled and able to become the story of the whole cast and crew...and hopefully the viewers.

hippity hop

2008-03-25T18:21:00.000-07:00

make things

2008-03-25T15:45:00.000-07:00

experimental film...

The Reel Loud Film Festival is an annual silent film festival at UCSB. The films are shot and screened on film and accompanied by live musical acts. It's our department's largest event.

I have always (I've been to one, lol) seen this festival as the time of opportunity. It's a time for people to get out and make make make, who otherwise would not be able or know how to. This is the time to get together and independently work on a short film with friends and have a magnificant exhibition space. (Campbell Hall seats around 800 people)

One of the reasons I decided to be on the committee was to be a facilitator of this opportunity. There is much emphasis on the actual event, but not enough, I think on the opportunity of producing films. A limited amount of students think they have the confidence or resources to make a reel loud. I decided to try to change that image that may make reel loud seem pretentious or standoffish. Now, don't get me wrong--making a reel loud is not simple. It costs a good amount of money, you need to plan early, learn or get someone who knows how to shoot on film, and arguably the most important--have a good script.

I served as on of the publicity coordinators for Reel Loud this last quarter. We have had workshops and continue to do so on Fridays through the Film and Video Maker's Co-Op. Spring quarter I will be planning the actual night of Reel Loud as festival Coordinator with the Producer (Ryan) and Director (Valerie)...but my mind will certainly always be on the creators of art.

Now why did I start this off by saying "experimental film?" Well I'm sure I will be writing about this more soon, but briefly, I guess from what little I have told fellow film students about my reel loud in pre-production, I am making an experimental film this year. I never saw it as one..I guess I just see it as unstructured and less plot driven than the one I produced last year. (Timon's Friendship Adventure). But rightfully so, this is an experimental film. It's my first time in college writing, let alone directing a film...so yea this will be interesting! (more on that later...)

This spring is a time for everyone to be experimental. Who cares if you have never done production before or if you are not a film major or don't see yourself as artistic. You can join a crew and contribute. Filming is usually no more than a full weekend...so it's a nice taste of what production UCSB can offer with a hint of self motivation and a splash of being pro-active.

experiment
make
create
wonder
share
facilitate

Reel Loud 2008- The Past, Present, and Future of Cinema
Deadline: May 9th
Festival: May 23rd

"making books, making records, playing way to much music and having fun. Doing chores, setting up shows...not being useless...make things make things make things make things..."
-Drum and an Open Window

For more info: lisashapiro@umail.ucsb.edu
or
www.reellouducsb.com

listen to people who make things:

www.cllct.com

not quite exec...more like help

2008-03-25T15:38:00.000-07:00

I love producing but I also find that when I'm either involved or around other people's art, I either want to just be involved or I want to help. I like the idea of others spontaneously enhancing the artistic opportunities of others. Even better is when people are open to let people into their work. I sure love to.

So yea I like the idea of executive producing. I know it's a vague term that usually is just handed out or asked for...but yea maybe next year. Maybe I can facilitate the art of others while pursuing my own work as a producer and or art director.

crewin up

2008-03-14T14:11:00.001-07:00

Annie- this one is for you because I'm getting hippie producer on you:

A crew is like a family.

They say you can't pick family, but the best crews are a collaboration of select people you know are pro-active, dedicated, and responsible, and people who can work together as friends and business partners.

A really smart DP I know once said that as long as everyone trusts each other, it will all work out--it's the mutual trust that everyone will do their job.

Especially in student films, people on your crew, especially above the line, become your best friends, at least for the term of production. Some people are really professional and don't like to mix business with pleasure, but how else can work be fun? Lines between friends and co-workers need to be blurred, at least the way I do things. The best group is one that knows when to be serious and when to relax.

At this point, I know what I like in every position that needs to be filled on a crew of mine. Chimes really set a precedent in my film work in the sense that our crew was just uber awesome at this balance. A balance of anything takes experiment and time, but when it's right...oh it's right.

Part of setting the balance for a producer is picking the right projects to begin--knowing how much you are willing to put into it and at what cost. Luckily I have found a project this year that I really felt like I was doing something important, not only for the community, but also in a way to advance my skills and network of fellow crew members.

As I have heard many of my friends say over the last week, as much as we are all kinda burnt out (with excitement, mind you) we all can't wait to start a new project. Those who are as excited as me to do so, are likely to be my next crew :)

the presents of days like another

2008-03-09T19:47:00.000-07:00

I never really make a big deal about my birthday but I always have amazing one's because my friends are awesome.

Here is a link to some amazing-ness:

http://colinmckenziesdream.blogspot.com/2008/03/happy-birthday-lisa.html

I share this because of a poignant quote in it: "You can't necessarily put these on a wall or frame them, though I know you'll try..."

Some day I'm gonna find an abandoned hut to place all the things I've saved over the years and periodically I'll peruse and remember and embrace the past and the things that still resonate. Until then, I'll have to retreat to labeled office depot boxes up in my closet; separated by year.

This year has been amazing, because most of my gifts were things that my talented friends made for me. (see post: "those things you left behind") Birthday memories are a big part of things I keep and cherish. I love cards and wrapping, and homemade gifts. "This is my art for you" really got to me in the gift linked above.

Birthdays are just like any other day...but you get attention and praise and compliments. I've always been a little shy about attention and would rather keep close to my friends that I hang out with on a regular basis..not really make my birthdays a big deal. It's the surprises and little gestures that spontaneously illuminate my day, which I keep close to my heart. Sharing something that someone cares about or for, with me is really meaningful to me.

Viral gifts, while they do take away from the tangible "framing" of memory, still allow for re-playability, transfer of care across bodies of water (ahem cough), and are a modern, colorful new way of giving a card. I did receive a great homemade card last night from some friends though and it was rather fabulous.

The point I'm trying to make is that it's interesting how a day that gives me the most attention, makes me focus on little intimate and subtle moments, gestures, and courtesies.

My birthday also coincides with the completion of my film...probably the highlight of my year, so how fitting. :)

So as I look at the flowers that I got on Wednesday and hope they never wilt, I can't help but wonder, what would happen if we treated every day as if it was your neighbor's birthday? Yes, here in IV it would result in way too much booze for anyone's good, but really...would we all be a little nicer to each other? Would we share and be more careful with our words? Would we all gain weight from all that ice cream cake? perhaps...but I don't know about you-a birthday every day would kind of be like thanksgiving every day for me, minus the turkey. Slowing down to notice and cherish and take in what you got.

(Recommended listening: Brighteyes- First day of my Life)

my two labels

2008-03-06T23:36:00.000-08:00

Thanks EK, for designing the top LShap one.

Rubber Stamps will be used when I write/direct a project of my own, accompanied by LShap, of course, if I produce :)

just for kicks

2008-03-04T17:58:00.001-08:00

I'm kinda just kidding with this one, because I really enjoy this class. I have learned a lot, seen some great films, (The Science of Sleep, Children of Men...etc). But yeah I can't help but joke about this one...five papers in one quarter, lol. (considering I have four others on the side).

Anyways I doodled this in class today and couldn't help myself from making it in color. It was after Parks showed us a clip from Psycho and exclaimed, "I'm glad we're looking at this for sound because then I can watch it with my eyes closed. She was referring to the shower scene. I began to wonder, would 96 be less intimidating if we all just closed our eyes? I think this would make a great bumper sticker, perhaps with "I survived film and media studies 96" on top.

Anyways, one more paper left!

Wooot and then I can add that line a top and join all the others who have passed the amazing threshold that is 96.

but again, guys, don't get me wrong; this has been my favorite class this quarter. It so nicely complimented the production of my film and my TA and professor have been amazing resources!

So if I complain, I might as well use Paint to express it! :)

Ding a Ling Ling!!!

2008-03-03T00:24:00.001-08:00

A mockumentary about the coast that will have you rock'n to the beat of activism!

In March...Chimes will be a-ringing

2008-02-27T13:22:00.001-08:00

So the project that began pre-production in the summer, with basically just me, Nicole, and Steven, is now coming close to completion. We burned a copy of the fine cut at 1am last night. We still have to score it and mess with all the sound and graphics, put in titles and credits, etc...and even with that, the project is not done. I am working very hard on publicity, to promote the project, especially because the current events about the Gaviota Coast right now are on the Santa Barbara communities' radar. This issue needs to be kept in the forefront, thus keeping our film visible and available to those who would like to see it, is very important to me. Our website will be up soon, and we are already beginning to talk about DVD productions and television broadcasts.

As I think about this project, I couldn't have had a better crew. I think I put together the best people our department has to offer in terms of talent and synergy.

I'm the producer "who cares too much" or as Annie calls me the "hippie producer," but you know what? so be it. yes, I will be sad when the crew disperses to other projects and we don't have Chimes meetings or shooting weekends anymore.

But we will have this nice funny piece of activism to show for it!

Go See it!!!!!

CHIMES OF GAVIOTA: or I've Got the Real Estate Blues
-along with the other Greenscreen Projects...

IV Theatre:
March 12th
7:30pm

Faulkner Gallery, Santa Barbara Public Library

March 18th
7pm

www.savenaples.org

any other way

2008-02-25T14:44:00.000-08:00

So whoever decided that a day is 24 hours, apparently didn't consult with me before.

I have found myself literally scheduling my days every hour...without much consideration of time in between to get to the other place or to prep. (if I had the time I would probably spend it drawing a diagram of my day haha..um trust me, it's been done). It's exciting and these things need to get done but man, my days have started to feel like puzzles....not those hard ones that sit on your kitchen table for weeks because you lose interest or are confused, but luckily the kind that is done quickly but methodically. I guess that's the good thing; my days are very exciting and eventful. I guess I have normalized the idea of stress and fatigue. I haven't quite fully normalized the idea of worry, but I'm getting there. I think there has to be a certain amount of worry that gives me the energy to perfectly plan things so that the actual actions of my day are more spiritedly busy, rather than draining.

But here's the thing, when I even find myself with about an hour or less of spare time among all the hustle and bustle, I am bored. Bored doesn't do well for me. I can be doing nothing and not be bored, like relaxing and watching a movie or drawing, but being bored for me is just another way of saying confused. When I have a lag between my schedule, I am reminded how I wouldn't have it any other way. So when I complain about being busy, it's usually either out of excitement or a fun way to remind me what i have to do. Sometimes my lists are boring, so just talking about my schedule is fun in itself, lol.

I'm weird about being organized and on task, but I get things done and am still happy that somehow I still find time to hang out with friends and be nice to people along the way. Sometimes I say, screw the lists and schedules, but it's still on my mind. I kid about having OCD, but sometimes I see those type of tendencies. I would say I have a mild case of it mixed with love. I studied OCD in high school quite seriously actually and in depth; I found how serious that condition can get. I know I see traces of that in myself, but I do also think that much of those characteristics, like thinking way too much about things in the moment, and wanting to repeat things for assurance, are found in myself for the better. Without those practices, I think I would be a very different person. I don't think I would be as motivated. So for that, I am thankful.

I sometimes complain that not that many people are like me in that way, but then again I am glad that they are not. Call me contradictory, but I like the ways of both worlds; the calm and the energized, the planners and the procrastinators; those busy and those in leisure.

Either way, I wouldn't have it any other way...except the fact that I keep reminding myself that the healthy teen should be getting about 9 1/4 hours of sleep a night.

I share with you these different opinions about being busy, that I may or may not agree with:

“The busy man is troubled with but one devil; the idle man by a thousand”-Spanish Proverb

“A man who is very busy seldom changes his opinions.”- Nietzsche

“Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it.”- Thoreau

travel in cards

2008-02-18T21:02:00.001-08:00

Thrift stores are one of my favorite places to go..besides bonfires. Vernessa, Brittany, and I...aka the Alpha girls spent a good half hour finding postcards. These are highlights of the adventure :)

1. Jerusalem
2. Tuscany, Italia
3. Fleet Street
4. NZ
5. New Orleans
6. "Mata"

those things you left behind

2008-02-16T19:36:00.000-08:00

those little words and doodles you left behind...I kept.

those clippings and arrangements you didn't tape down yet, I secured.

that wet paint was dried by my cherished thought of sharing.

I like new things. but I like old and worn and rusty things better. art is a balance of this.
-picked up and shared art is on the verge of worn.
-picked up and shared art is on the verge of caring.

I know you take these things very personally. sometimes, enough to keep only inside. You share it with me and I feel like a part of that intimate secrecy of art that is public only in our conversation.

that one thing...that collage....I still have. we don't talk anymore but I still have it. is that weird?
it still means something to me...so I guess not.

it took a while but now you know I like you to share. Isn't it special when our rust matches and can mingle? Is any rust the same or does the tarnish just match because of intention?

those melodies come from song and words and pictures and arrangement and splatter.

I don't think you know how talented you are. I don't think you know how proud it can make me to see your work. It may be old, it may be new, but either way, it's collected-in boxes, in stacks, in albums-folded and kept.

My stuff kind of blends in. Why can I throw out some of mine? Maybe my rust is unwanted by anyone but I'd rather feel good about the sharing of yours, than the popularity of mine. Maybe yours conjures up the feeling or inspiration that I want and cannot grasp in mine.

those words you say i might even write down. otherwise the folded memories may not be tangible to remember.

- those words, that pulp, that color, that sound. I still have.

-keep on sharing. whether you realize it or not I like to listen.

radiating contemplation and outreach

2008-02-13T00:54:00.001-08:00

a cough of reality

2008-02-11T00:09:00.000-08:00

Being really sick this week reminded me not to take my health for granted. Day to day health gives you at least the physical health to do things.

Anyone who know me well, knows how much I don't like to be bored...so this week kinda was lame. But now I am getting better and have things to look forward to, like signing up for classes for next quarter, seeing the rough cut of Chimes, working on the directors series next week, and further developing my reel loud.

health is not everything, because you got to make room for happiness--but man, it is very important. so yea, now I can do stuff :D

written catharsis

2008-02-02T01:53:00.000-08:00

Today I got over my fear of writing a short film and began the first draft of the Reel Loud that I am making. I say that I am making with great intent since I am kind of surprised I'm so sure of it. I fee like I need to at least do one that is my idea because until now in the film dept, though I have learned a lot and had lots of artistic expression, I have not completely started a project on my own. That, surprisingly or not has caused me to slightly fear writing something. I always seem to have ideas but never get them on paper beyond a single phrase. I got the feeling a week ago, while watching Into the Wild, which is a surprise, because while I thought it was a good movie, I didn't love it, and since then have been thinking about writing this idea I had. The first thing I did was call six actors that I wanted to work with. I told them I had this idea and am very unsure about it and have not written one word about it, but would love it if they were in it, and they all said yes! I guess that means I'm making it. And that means a lot because I wrote the first draft
today.

So I got over two things already that I didn't think I would soon: writing and fully initiating a project. The last thing is that I have yet to direct, which in this case I am co-directing with Klop, not because I am scared or unsure but plainly because I like being creative with him and I want to be questioned. As much as I want this to be my reel loud and my first true artistic expression (which btw I think people will be surprised with how deep and poetic I tend to be) I want this to be a fun time. It might be a bit odd that I felt the need to secure actors before writing anything, but it got me to make a commitment and the idea is very personal/character driven so it will be fun to scope these characters according to these specific actors.

My only concern is that I tend to want to get really emotional and abstract and have to remember that the way to do this with film is to make is understandable to the audience in some sense. I think Klop will be able to help me do that! Oh and I am happy that Ace agreed to DP it because he and i were both interns on Best Leader and have since paralleled each other in our progress with film so it will be nice to come together and work with each other once again.

I don't know if it will good. But I DO know that it will be fun. And that it will be done. That's good enough for me right now :)

Stay tuned for more info as this comes closer...filming will be probably one weekend after spring break. And I'm also stoked because I can bring in my new production name into the mix since I decided to whip that out at my first personal film...but no worries I figured a way that LShap Productions can still stick around too! (ooh all mysterious...)

Indie Film Class SBIFF Panel

2008-01-29T20:12:00.000-08:00

A panel of four filmmakers that have feature films in SBIFF visited my Independent Film Class yesterday. It was a very intriguing and entertaining conversation because of how personal and down to earth they all were and was also really cool because I had met one of them at the press breakfast a few days before.

These were the films represented:
Disfigured
Summerhood
Frayed
Remarkable Power

I am actually going to have to miss the director's panel on Saturday because of our last re-shoots of Chimes, so I'm really happy that I got to see these directors instead. Below is a summary of the conversation; the quotes range from advice about financing a film to just plain silly exclamations that arouse.

"Get the money to make the choices"
"You should be making an indie film with no expectation of making the money back"
"Do not use credit cards"
on first film seen: "I saw God too when I was 31/2 and he was a vengeful bitch"
"Learn about money and distribution for film before you start"
"Enough people just give money because they want their name in a movie"
on viewers:"the less you care about it, the more you a reopen about liking it"
"it's all about strategy"
ask for money from "people who are sympathetic about your ideas"
"everyone has a story...the ability to translate that is what makes you a filmmaker"
"You're not being desperate when asking for money, you're providing a service"
"What a bunch of bullshit, but they took it"
"important to think about other things besides money...that's not what film making is"
"you can make genre films in an independent way"
"the thing that is going to make a good film, is making five other films"
"DVD's are your film school"
"we sold fitness gear..made infomercials, which in itself was practice making short films."
"It doesn't matter how you make it or where it shows...if it's good it will be seen"
"I don't care about distribution...I can do it myself"
"Pick a date to start and end and do it"
"If you can get over the vanity of a theatrical release, you'll never look back"
"you must figure out goals with your team"
"you must manage and figure choices in terms of how final product will sell"
"you have to be resourceful."
"you should be willing but not mandated to make moral decisions, even if it has to increase budget"
"writing is free"
"are you interests in a western...you never know"
"if you're gonna write a feature make sure it is 100 pages or less"
"Day 1 of shooting: 8,000 dollars in the bank. By the time I crawled out of bed, the money was gone and spent on phone calls"

It was refreshing how the panel was so engaged in the discussion and the moderator position was so fluid that they were able to ask each other and at one point ask the students some questions. This brought new optimism to me about the passion to make films.

don't take yourself so seriously..go to the movies

2008-01-28T21:27:00.001-08:00

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO!

SBIFF Producer's Panel

2008-01-28T13:11:00.001-08:00

On Saturday Jan 26th, there was a Producer's Panel at the Lobero Theatre as part of the SB International Film Festival.

Those in attendance:

Daniel Lupi (There will be Blood)
Craig Zaden and Neil Meron (Hairspray, Chicago)
James L. Brooks (The Simpsons)
Leanne Halfon (Juno)

Lupi: "Paul Thomas Anderson gets what he wants"- (haha that's basically all he said!)

Zaden: "invaluable to have private and prior prep with actors."
"As Producer you can't really behave badly"

Meron: "Make what works, even try to enhance what you have and be responsible."

Brooks: "To direct, you have to have some sort of insanity that this is the most important thing at the time."
"Tone ranks up there with story."
"You have to let someone go if they are not going to work."
"If everyone is doing their work and disagreeing, everything will be okay."
"Loyalty is confused."
"Being a producer is very vague because you do everything."

Halfon: Being a Producer means you "have to have that pitch in your head and keep it constant."
"Smaller budget is lecense to be talked to less."

I was intrigued by the conversations. I was, though a little surprised about how little the panelists acknowledged those in the audience. The panel felt a little impersonal, yet it was informative. Maybe that's why I found myself not being very motivated to talk to anyone of them afterwards. I guess I didn't want it to be a meeting in which I just say my name and what film I am represented followed by a meek "well...nice to meet you." But nonetheless I'm glad I went because they said many things about producing that I agreed and could relate with. And I look forward to the Directors Panel later this week!

re-living leaps

2008-01-23T00:52:00.001-08:00

Today I used the term “leap of faith” twice and in both senses I meant it in relation to love.

I find that repetition pretty interesting.

Everything seems to be fitting into place and when I say that I don’t mean at all that everything is turning out alright or that I am getting everything I want. Because honestly, it’s far from it. But, things seem to be sailing by and making all the right pit stops.

( I am tired of explaining everything and answering questions that I have answered already and then again. The rest of this passage may not have anything to do with leaps of faith, but then again, it does. I trust you to figure that out. Sometimes explaining just makes my ideas more unexplainable and that just makes me frustrated…)

I like repetition and replays and redo’s. I like remembering how reality is and how things keep flowing and fluxing back, washing away until things change; until wearing away means new growth. I like how I can change the way I see things. I like when people can see that change, but feel a little fake when they think I was like that originally. I love the people who lead me toward change. I feel light and porous and get that feeling inside and take a deep breath--feel it again and then smile inside. I then smile inside toward the person or image or sound that helped me get there. I like to return to those things that gave me that feeling--and even better feel so nice when they re-visit me.

I like that I can sometimes be forward and feel better that way. The things I originally had to suppress can now be happily expressed. I like having emotion; but ironically I like when movies show characters who lack a lot of emotion. I have found over this week that I am full of contradictions. I admit it, but somehow get offended when people agree. That in itself a contradiction? I don’t know. But a good friend taught me that things need to be questioned and re-thought and I guess that’s how I can understand that contradictions are not only natural but more dependable than clear-cut, prideful opinions.

I like long sentences and exhales of understanding. I like that repetitions allow for change and re-visiting.

The ability to re-visit an idea gives more freedom and questioning leads to perhaps clearer comprehension.

The thing I don’t like about repetition is that the original or the previous wave can sometimes be washed away by all the copies and new memories.

-promise me one thing---don’t let me forget how much I care about you

Timon at SBIFF...wOOt!

2008-01-22T20:49:00.001-08:00

This short film that I produced, (written by Michael Weinreich and Directed by Max Littman), for the UCSB Reel Loud film festival is showing at SBIFF this weekend! Below is info to check it out. Wooot!

Saturday, Jan. 26th: 10pm
Marjorie Luke Theatre
721 E. Cota Street

Tuesday, Jan 29th: 9pm
Victoria Hall
33 W. Victoria Street

"You'll be tapping your feet to the melody of generosity and revenge!"

http://www.sbfilmfestival.org/
www.moseshouse.com/timon

cycling over and over

2008-01-21T13:24:00.000-08:00

I like the feeling of...

2008-01-12T00:53:00.001-08:00

being uncontrollably widemouthed in front of a big screen
telling stories for the first time that have been in my mind for years
snippets of coincidences noticed, but not necessarily noted
intriguing conversation
mutual understanding of love
forgetting the time
"being the same person!"
becoming more modest after a compliment

feeling like someone has occasional checks and balances on me
non-exclusive "personal jokes" that get funnier each time
heart to hearts that lead to something
personal squinting nod of understanding
pro-active sharing
giving paragraph long and really direct compliments
on the dot understandings
peaceful emotional catharsis
one sentence help for a stressful situation
suppressed tear jerker

being thought of and leaving a mark among
bringing people together
teaching an appreciative student
someone wanting my help
true constructive criticism

natural smiles and laughter pictures
being natural
unspoken connection
beginning sentences with "i feel"
accidentally making a difference

different handwriting each time pen to paper

2008-01-12T00:16:00.000-08:00

Change used to scare me. This is not to say that "I don't like change." I guess I may be just starting to understand how it works. Every day seeming like a different life used to make me feel like that's not what it's supposed to feel like.

I am so fascinated on how people can change. Looking back at photos, thinking about the gaps in memory, and initial reactions of difference help me uncover this change. I don't think change will ever cease to fascinate me.

I'm trying to look at events and moments of difference and the present equally connecting to the past and the future in a transcendentalist viewpoint. I like soaking things in just enough to allow them to reflect and bounce right off me as if sparks of light off a block of aluminum foil. Somehow I feel held back to my original state; as if these reflex's are somehow remembered and copied and stored in a side compartment for me to grasp occasionally.

I kind of feel as if the evolution of myself is like those early mario brothers video games (which btw I always felt awkward playing). I'm talking about the ones where mario jumps up and over a conveyor belt city or skyscrape and if he misses the mushroom or gets hit by a rock he automatically starts back at the beginning. I am mario and even though I am freely riding this conveyor belt toward somewhere, sometimes I'm strung back to the beginning. But I should mention that when playing these games alone, I always had a fascination of not going forward. I tried to test what would happen if I went backwards or just hung out among these mushrooms or question marks. Sometimes I would just stop and chill. Some people say video games are a way to go to another world and become that character. I always felt more conscious of myself while playing. I was not mario. I was Lisa awkwardly pressing A and B and occasionally that back button, to control mario.

(Haha that extended metaphor just got me psyched for my video games class).

Change use to scare me. I don't necessarily think that uneasiness of it's workings has gone away, I just think I am more conscious of it with every day.

blllizzarrd

2008-01-06T23:44:00.000-08:00

upright gazing

2008-01-05T19:35:00.000-08:00

mid-way meeting

2008-01-05T13:16:00.000-08:00

I talked to another guy I don’t know yesterday...this is turning into a regular thing I guess. This time it was on a blog site. There were about 45 comments on a topic board before it ended up being a conversation basically just between the two of us, except for a nice person who was being kind to me. His blogger name is big daddy, which actually turned out to be an opportune name in the discussion, if not for anything than for my personal entertainment. I was creative in my name- Lisa.

If your so inclined or interested in this blog-sesh, which will make my observations below more clear, or more broadly, if are interested in the new movie, Cloverfield that is coming out, (which actually I'm not even that interested in)...just click here. I guess it also shows a more feisty side of LShap, but still with the tint of hopeful sentiment that you know.

Anyways, here's what I gleaned from this experience:

Never doubt that there will be an unexpected nice person to back you up
It feels better to argue in a respectable way
It’s easy to resolve an argument when at least one person welcomes understanding
Your attitude of someone can shift if you can let go of the past
It’s easy to make judgment; but easier to not.
Look for ways to meet someone half way.
Trying to understand, with practice, will become natural.
Overconfidence is a form of insecurity. Move on.
Being naïve is not the worst thing.
blogging=sharing.

big daddy- if you’re reading this, thanks again for meeting me half way. As you made me realize a few things, I hope I was able to plant some naïve and optimistic seeds in you. I’m still wondering if your name refers to that Adam Sandler movie or something else interesting. Frankly, I’ve been thinking about that more than Cloverfield.

show that you care

2008-01-02T22:37:00.000-08:00

On January 12th there will be a mock rally at UCSB to save the Gaviota Coast, to be filmed for the mockumentary, Chimes of Gaviota or: I've Got the Real Estate Blues.

It is staged and led by our main actors, but it is still important because it's a real issue. Come and show that you care!

For more info, check out our facebook event or support the cause and Save Naples!

the first of the month; not just a number

2008-01-01T03:12:00.000-08:00

New years for me is kind of like thanksgiving. It's a time for me to look toward the past and evaluate my current state. I barely look toward the present; memory is too important for me to jump to what has yet to occur. I figure I'll glean on that later. It's also a time to have fun. Somewhere in between the two, I of course make time to make a list.

Every year I make a list of "firsts" when I get home from my new year’s eve celebrations. It means more to me than any top ten list ever would. It’s fast and spontaneous and totally candid. Sometimes it’s obvious, sometimes there’s surprises. And it only includes the instant things that happen that night. Any other categories are listed but I don’t wait for them to happen or encourage them to happen. I will mentally fill them in when they do and (perhaps) post some of those when they are filled in. I sometimes contemplate why I don't do a "last" list; I guess my answer is because that's just plain sad.

It would be nice if everyone made a list like this and posted it so the people involved can see. It's nice to stop and think of the little things in life beyond booze and vast resolutions. Feel free to steal my categories but it’s the best to add some of your own! (I never look back at my previous year until the next new years day).

Here they are as of 12:00.01- 2008:

First hug- Michelle
First cry- EK
First call- Steven
First words: “woo!”
First "deep" intellectual convo- Michael
First Aim- EK
First I love you- Tessa
First song- Bright eyes- First day of my life
First drink- Starbucks Christmas Blend Coffee
First bite of food- Homemade lemon cake
First face book wall post- Justin
First real laugh- Steven
First solid thought- “I’m lucky for what I have”
First saved photo in my 2007 college album: chimes cast and crew group
First TV show watched: tie: New Year’s Rockin Eve confetti clean-up and new years wish from Hugh Hefner
First “that feeling inside:” When wishing friends happy new year and contacting a few even though “it’s been a while”
First news watched: ABC weather report
First website visited: umail (duh)
First news read: Ski accident that kills Michael Kennedy
First incoming email: Facebook: “Ryan wrote on your wall”
First thing read: LA times Calendar section

Still waiting for:

First laugh until I cry:
First cry until I laugh:
First kiss:
First joke that people laugh at:
First real LOL:
First movie in a theatre:
First film related task:
First live performance:
First You tube Video commission by someone else that I actually enjoy:
First use of a personal joke:
First disappointment:
First complaint:
First photo:
First lesson:
First regret:
First sent email:
First compliment given:
First compliment received:
First surprise:
First memorable saying by a friend or someone I admire:
First purchase:

oh so "business-y"

2007-12-28T17:21:00.000-08:00

So... I'm not really sure how it happened, (that's a lie...it's just too silly to explain) but in 21 days I will be shipped 250 business cards. Yeah. They are ultra girly and I believe are clad with a cheesy "filmmaker. student. friend" description...I know huh. I can't guarantee they have my correct information but I sure hope so. They say LShap Productions even though in a few months I might change the name--so soon they will be vintage? cool.

Anyways, if you want one (or like 5) of these limited edition (aka "I'm not making any more that look like this") cards, let me know. If you don't want one, I'll probably give one to you anyways. hahaha now I'm kinda excited to get them!

five of spades to defy gravity

2007-12-27T22:13:00.000-08:00

So I had a conversation with this man today. He asked me my birthday and I replied March 5th. Without much hesitation, he took out his worn leather wallet and between a five dollar bill and a neat stack of receipts, he took out a folded piece of paper with a diagram of numbers. Then he said, "5 of Spades". Five of Spades? What does that mean? He continued, "Change. Your life will be full of change and don't be upset with that; it's just what it will be."

In any other situation I would have been a little cautious talking to a random stranger about my birthday and my life but this guy was alright... yes in a kind of odd, "I've seen Wicked 18 times." way, but for some reason I took that to heart. (Oh I forgot to mention that he was in front of me in line for the Wicked Pantages Theatre Raffle.) But anyways, could he have said anything else to me that would have made more sense in my life right now? Change?! (See my previous passage: riding the change).

I mean, yes it would have been nice if he would have said, "You are lucky" and then they would have pulled my name so that I could finally see Wicked! (front row!) But that hour wait, along with about 300 other people was worth while to hear about the five of spades. The funny thing is that I didn't think for a second about who this guy was and what his credentials were to "diagnose" my life. Usually I'd be a bit more logical and overlook this man. But I don't know; maybe I'm changing every day. Five of Spades...I'll take it.

Speaking of Broadway, being at the Pantages (even though I didn't even get to peek inside) reminded me about how excited I am around theatre, especially Broadway musicals. It would have been nice to see it (can I stress how nice it would have been?!) but it was a good reminder that at some point I want to work on a Broadway show..even if it's just a PA. That would be a dream.

I guess for right now I can go to itunes and open up the soundtrack... But here's a "thanks" to that man. Don't know his name; will probably never see him again; and I don't know if I think it's cool or not that he will probably never read this...but even though he didn't do much...he did something.

bottom line--Broadway musicals are magical. I have gotten the message to embrace change. I will never look at a five of spades the same. And I hope to see Wicked at some point before it leaves LA.

Oh and I forgot to mention that other thing the man said when we were chatting about our "odds" of winning: "If are meant to see it, you will." That stuck with me. I couldn't quite grasp it before but this guy reminded me of Clarence from It's a Wonderful Life. He was no angel, of course, but he did make me think.

Ohh and sorry, even though this is coming a year or so too late, I still can't offer you a review of this production if that's what you thought this was gonna be, but I'll see you in line for the Sunday Matinee raffle!

around me and you...

2007-12-25T00:20:00.001-08:00

Over the last week or so I've been making my compulsive lists of what needs to be done and accomplished and what I have missed over the last year, that in the New Year I will make up for and see, watch, do, experience, listen to, pay attention to, read, or notice.

Next on the reading list, after I complete the 2nd season scripts of Seinfeld, of course, is Miranda July's compilation of short stories, "No One Belongs Here More Than You." I enjoyed her writing, that I can only describe as "awkward intimate weirdness" in her 2005 film, Me and you and Everyone we Know.

Besides the fact that I am looking forward to reading it this next month, and that Erica and I have already decided, she gets yellow and I get pink and we will discuss it over blueberry scones, I guess the reason I am writing this blog is really about her short film that she also made in 2005, featuring her and John C. Reily, "Are you Anybody's Favorite Person." It's four minutes and really strikes up thought.

The tendency for this to possibly make you sad, is natural, but I encourage thinking beyond that. I look forward to connecting the ideas of her films, this book and possibly her other works, and her art work in a way to answer tough questions such as this in a more intimate and personal, yet not self-indulged manner.

Her ideas and ways of making art really intrigue and inspire me. People who know me well are probably thinking that if I'm gonna read something other than the LA times calendar section or film readers, it must mean something. So there you go.

Are you anybody's favorite person?

http://mirandajuly.com
http://noonebelongsheremorethanyou.com/

a brilliant article; email interview with July (which I just found out is not her real name); her brilliance both inspires and intimidates me:

http://www.bombsite.com/issues/92/articles/2739

riding change with caring

2007-12-22T12:23:00.000-08:00

it's amazing how much things can change. I have always been aware of it, but only remember it from change to change. At the point in which you think everything is constant and linear and headed toward some ultimate goal, something shifts or turns or twists. At the point when you think, "how will this situation draw out and affect the future?" its purpose transforms and its appearance is redefined. Change is natural, and always, even if it isn't obvious at first, has a purpose or interesting effect.

that being said, things also have to stay the same. Staying the same does not mean thwarting change, but defining core values within ourselves to keep a rhythm of our courage to ride the changes. History, and by history I mean any recording of the past, repeats but this is not a bad thing. History repeating cannot be something to complain about. This would only encourage collective values that are simultaneously dictated and expected, thus taken advantage of and for granted. Repetition is a reminder; a much needed reminder to realize that while time progresses, we change; we are on a conveyor belt of life, controlled by society--just another reminder of the importance of individual agency.

history changes- so does the dynamics of human contact, your thoughts about someone--their thoughts about you, the themes in films and books and plays--the course of health and fate and connection.

as much as I know this, it's tough for me to remember until something else comes along. no need to stand so strong about something for it's meaning to slip away--that being said, still CARE. Caring will last throughout these changes.

--do projects that mean something. make art that takes a toll on you and challenges your perceptions. If you are so sure or you have been there before, or know exactly what you are doing, beware--for you may be among cookie cutters--

look up, we're tiny

2007-12-19T15:12:00.000-08:00

A song I can't stop listening to. I just saw Juno and her music is mostly what made the movie good. Aside is a picture taken while filming Dylan Jones' ranch interview for Chimes. Beauty of nature is one of the many things that make me feel tiny in this wide world.

"When I go for a drive I like to pull off to the side Of the road, turn out the lights, get out and look up at the sky And I do this to remind me that I'm really, really tiny In the grand scheme of things and sometimes this terrifies me But it's only really scary cause it makes me feel serene In a way I never thought I'd be because I've never been So grounded, and so humbled, and so one with everything I am grounded, I am humbled, I am one with everything Rock and roll is fun but if you ever hear someone Say you are huge, look at the moon, look at the stars, look at the sun Look at the ocean and the desert and the mountains and the sky Say I am just a speck of dust inside a giant's eye I am just a speck of dust inside a giant's eye"

- Kimya Dawson (I Like Giants)

Kate suggested that we take a look at this
and perhaps this.

recovering artsy-ness

2007-12-13T18:08:00.000-08:00

So hopefully my belated Hanukkah gift will be a nice, digital still camera..but until then, I have been taking photo's of mine from other people's cameras. I have found that the photos are then a little more spontaneous and fun. On set of Chimes, the cameras that I usually use are of Steven and Alex. (thanks guys!) So as the pictures are uncovered (put on facebook) I can reveal what I called my "artsy pic" of the day. They will be out of order and random, but that's what art is. Order is boring and repressive!

Here are a few I snagged as the shadows were being cool outside of the Biko Co-op garage, when we were filming the hippie scene.

reflec(x)tive wonderings...

2007-12-12T03:33:00.000-08:00

So, this quarter I took Film Studies 192B: Contemporary Cultural Theory. Looking back on it, it was one of the best classes I have ever taken, ever. Besides getting insights on brilliant ideas and watching some very interesting films, namely, Children of Men, Waking Life, Swoon, and Superstar: The Karen Carpenter Story, I have thought of some questions that I would like to share that I may or may not have been able to answer from this class. Many of these have crossed and settled in my mind before, but have more recently resettled. Either way, as the material in this class both boggled and expanded my mind, I feel like I will look at things very differently from now on, as I have already started to do.

Since I have the final tomorrow and given it is 3:30am, I will leave these questions with you and try to get a good nights sleep..whatever that means anymore... (Oh and if you have any insights, feel free to drop them off here) :)

-Is remembering forgetting, just as much as forgetting is remembering?

-Can you truly step outside of yourself and be a true observer, either passive or participant?

-Is anything universal? Private? Public? Personal? Revolutionary?

-Do things happen by choice or chance?

-Does coming together tear us more apart?
or
Does spreading apart bring people together?

-Are gaps in memory, faults in representing reality as a form of fiction
or
Are the gaps lost/screened moments just awaiting recovery?

-Does totality breed individualism just as much as individualism breed totality?

Trailer #1

2007-12-10T00:14:00.001-08:00

This is the first trailer made for Chimes of Gaviota or: I've Got the Real Estate Blues.

Editor: Annie Wilkes
Director: Evan Koehne
Cinematographer: Steven Ray Morris

more than just recycling

2007-12-08T20:42:00.001-08:00

I have about 50 unreadable dvds, in my room, so I decided to make an art project out of it.

This is a sample of some I have been working on. This is the 3 Part Natural Landscape Series. They were inspired mainly by the Art Nouveau style.

I am open to any ideas for more themes or ways of using these dvds, so let me know if you can think of any. They are white on one side, and silver on the other. I figure rather than throw them out, I may as well make some sort of use of them and with that, a pretty fun activity was born. DVD art work. The possibilities are endless...

through the lens of nature

2007-12-08T17:56:00.001-08:00

These are two of my favorite photos that I took of our filming for Chimes of Gaviota or: I've Got the Real Estate Blues. They portray the beautiful natural environment that we are immersing ourselves in. It's easy to become detached from the environment. These two photos make me think of myself as an onlooker, observing the human and natural environment in the peripheral of nature itself.

This photo was taken when filming the scene with Dylan Jones, our moral center of the film, the individual who has to decide what to do with his land. The sun was just setting and golden hour made this sentimental scene of looking upon the disputed land, even more sublime. Alex, our costume/prop intern, who is featured in this photo, and I, lay in the grass and look upon the rest of our crew finishing up the scene. Being there as the grass formed a chilled warmth of security, made me realize how the golden hour of the day is related to the golden hour of decision making to save Gaviota.

it all starts with a conversation...

2007-12-05T17:20:00.000-08:00

Chimes of Gaviota or: I've Got the Real Estate Blues is the environmental mockumentary that I am producing through the Greenscreen Program. Today was the last class of Film Studies 183, and so it was the presentations for the three Greenscreen Films' rough cuts.

Seeing the scenes arranged and on the big screen, should have gotten me focusing on the plot and the costumes and the sound, and the notes to improve it, but it had a different effect on me. Instead, I found myself reflecting on the purpose and message of our film. For me, the meaning of the film is about the range of an individuals mode of caring in a particular situation or on a particular issue. We follow these characters around this land preservation and residential development issue, and get to know them not only for what they stand for, but for who they are. The search to understand your own point of view is found in understanding the point of views of others. Essentially the levels of caring in this film are reverted to the audience, mainly our local and young community, in our attempt to strike down on apathy and promote understanding and gradual action.

Social consciousness and caring is what I want to get out of this film. At the feedback session, we discussed that everything starts with a conversation. I see our montage of characters as a conversation. Everyone has something to say, and it's initiative that is key.

We are offsetting our carbon footprint. We are also off-setting the separation that comes with debate and replacing movement towards understanding and self reflection. We are off-setting overwhelming facts of environmental issues by realizing that confusion is natural and everyone is as confused within themselves as much as they are with one another. Opposition is our defense mechanism for admitting that we are unsure about our viewpoints.

memory for today: Our crew was asked a question a the feedback session; Me, Evan and Steven all raised our hands and when it was decided who should talk, I said, "Either one of us will have a good answer, so it doesn't matter." I meant that. The three of us have equal investment and care in our film. Needless to say, we all ended up saying something. Our conversations always bounce off each other; we never have to vote or extensively argue..it's all natural.

I always do a mini: "what did this class teach me" at the end of a quarter. 183 changed a bit how I think about films, in terms of finding meanings and intent and effect. So I guess it makes sense how I viewed this rough cut today. I'll be writing notes and talking to my crew about the technicalities of the production as soon as an hour perhaps, but at least for now, I'm all about the meaning...

marked by a splatter

2007-12-05T00:51:00.000-08:00

memory is a time and a place and a motion and a reminder and an image.

but really memory for me, is a feeling inside.

I can't really describe it, nor do I want to.

It may happen upon it during an experience, way after, or never at all. Memory is a feeling that if taken to heart, shapes who you are and how you express yourself.

I am far too sentimental for my own good, which is the true meaning for this blog.

Lshap Productions is my current film production company, which basically includes me, and well, all my friends who help me with my film and art work. Unsuspecting times and places and motions, reminders and images, are some of the most important components that have shaped LShap Productions. They don't even know it, but that may be for the best. Spontaneous and accidental feelings, are the true source of inspiration.

this blog is for me to express this intangible feeling through my experiences with LShap Productions. While it will be an attempt to log the progress of what I do with film and art, it will more likely be a splatter painting of the perceptions of such memories that I glean along the way....