Thursday, April 24, 2014

Tennessee Filmmakers Honored at Nashville Film Festival


            NASHVILLE -- The Nashville Film Festival honored the winners of the Ground Zero Tennessee Spirit Awards and the Tennessee Horizon Audience Awards at NaFF Cinema at Walk of Fame Park in downtown Nashville on Wendesday. 

            The Ground Zero Tennessee Spirit Awards were presented by Bob Jackson, owner of Ground Zero.  The Tennessee Horizon Awards were presented in partnership with the Tennessee Film, Entertainment and Music CommissionNative Magazine and NaFF. 

            "Nashville Film Festival offers both seasoned and first time filmmakers the opportunity to have their films shown on the big screen," said NaFF Artistic Director Brian Owens. “We are thrilled to have been able to create another way to partner with the Tennessee Film, Entertainment and Music Commission by offering these awards."


Ground Zero Tennessee Spirit Awards:

            * Best Feature Film: Jace Freeman & Sean Clark, "The Ballad of Shovels and Rope"

            * Honorable Mention Best Feature: Paul Harrill, "Something, Anything" 

            * Best Narrative Short: Steven Wesley Miller, "Shadowland"

            * Best Documentary Short: Eric Byford, "Straight Up: Tennessee Whiskey"


TN Horizon Audience Awards:

            * First Place: Drew Langer, "Lower Broads"

            * Second Place: Riley Hooper, "Elvis Loses His Excess…"

            * Third Place: Motke Dapp, "Sorry About Tomorrow"

            * Fourth Place: Chad McClarnon, "Bear With Me"


            To learn more about the Nashville Film Festival, visit www.NashvilleFilmFestival.org.

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Actors Learn the Auditioning Ropes at Nashville Film Festival


By Chuck Whiting
MCAU Editor


            Some of Nashville's most successful actors provided invaluable insights to fellow actors during a special interactive session ("The Art of Auditioning") during the Nashville Film Festival. Leading the panel were moderator Susannah Devereaux, JesseJames Locorriere, Christopher Close, J.Karen Thomas, Jason Marsden, and Robin Dougherty. Following is an overview of what we learned (in their own words):



* Before the Audition:

            "Don't over-rehearse." -- JesseJames Locorriere

            "If you are preparing for a period piece, they might ask you to use a foreign accent. Conduct research to know what the scene is about. IMDb is an excellent online resource for information and trailers." -- Christopher Close

            "Take it seriously, and be prepared (but find a back story so you can be playful). When I rehearse, I read the script five to 10 times. It's important to understand the relationship between the character you're portraying and the other characters in the story. Know who's going to be there, learn more about them, and understand the style of the movie or show. That helps you build relationships." -- J.Karen Thomas

            "Don't obsess." -- Jason Marsden

            "Your agent's reputation is on the line, so be accountable. Do your research. You don't want to be seen in a bad light. Don't share audition news on Facebook. What if you don't land the part?" -- Robin Dougherty


* When You Audition:

            "Sometimes casting directors have pet peeves. Some hate things like flip-flops and smoking." -- Susannah Devereaux

            "Know why you're being seen for this role. They want to see who you are. You aren't competing. The stakes are higher when you're auditioning live in front of a casting director. Always go 'live' if you can. When you're nervous, you often do better. Taping can make you lazy. Show them your easy-to-work-with side." -- JesseJames Locorriere

            "If they say do it bigger, then go bigger. Otherwise, don't. Be natural. Sometimes the casting director knows if you're right for the part the moment you speak. Don't shake hands when you come into an audition (unless they extend theirs). Use your nerves to make your audition better." -- Christopher Close

            "In the movie 'The Identical', I portray a poor, uneducated black Southerner in 1936. It's important to allow the muse or emotion to flow through you. During rehearsal, I spoke her line with a crack in my voice. The crack came naturally. I used it again during the audition and landed the part. Don't change the words. Stick with the text. But be prepared if you're instructed to ad lib." -- J.Karen Thomas

            "Nashville auditions are warmer than LA, which can be brutal. The only thing you should pay for is gas (and occasionally a meal). Never review your audition." -- Jason Marsden

            "Listen to what they tell you to do. Always follow directions (don't do it your way). Don't go to the audition in character. An agent once had an actor go to an audition with cow udders, and it was a disaster." -- Robin Dougherty


How to Handle Rejection:

            "When I get a part, it means others have been rejected, too." -- JesseJames Locorriere

            "Sometimes you know (if you got the part) right away, but most of the time you don't. Don't stew if you don't land it. It's a one-in-a-hundred kind of thing. Most of the time, you're not going to get it. When I don't, I just tell myself they had poor judgment in not casting me. Don't take it personally. Go canoeing. Then get back to your job. You can't get it right every time." -- Christopher Close

            "I take the Zin point of view: Do your best, and let it go. Remember that you've made an investment. Something even better will come along. Enjoy the process." -- J.Karen Thomas

            "Sometimes you think you did everything right, but you still don't get the part. You have to move on." -- Jason Marsden


On Self-Taping:

            "You will need a 6-foot tripod. You can buy them at Consumer Depot for only $13." -- JesseJames Locorriere

            "If you have to shoot with poor quality (when you're on the road), then do it. Performance is the most important thing." -- Christopher Close

            "Don't worry about outdoor scenes (most of the time). They like an even playing field, so taping in a room is fine. The set is not as important. They are looking at the acting." -- J.Karen Thomas

            "Have a good agent, and be able to self-tape. Don't use an iPhone (if it's unsteady). You will need decent lights and clamps to hold them. You can find painters' lights at low prices at area hardware stores. You will need a good camera with quality sound. Dollar Tree sells smaller tripods. Wax paper can be used to tone down the lights. Shoot 'tits up' (not the whole body)." -- Robin Dougherty

Other Tips:

            "The Internet is huge. It's important to have a great site." -- JesseJames Locorriere

            "I have agents in both Nashville and Atlanta." -- J.Karen Thomas

            "It's a good time to be an actor with an affectation (like a stutter). Embrace it. Be endearing with it." -- Jason Marsden

           
            For more information about the Nashville Film Festival, visit www.NashvilleFilmFestival.org.


Monday, April 21, 2014

Amy Allen's Single 'Josie Rae' Climbs Music Row Country Breakout Chart


By Chuck Whiting
MCAU Editor

           NASHVILLE, Tenn. (April 2014) – Country-blues-Americana artist Amy Allen's new single, "Josie Rae", continues to climb the Music Row Country Breakout Chart, hitting number 101 on April 17.

            Allen also learned that the single is climbing other charts, reaching number 12 on Roots Music Report's Top 50 Pop Country Song Chart (just below Luke Bryan, Big & Rich, and The Band Perry) and number 44 on RMR's Top 50 Country Chart. "Josie Rae" is airing on hundreds of terrestrial and online radio stations around the world.

            "Josie Rae", a mid-tempo country/pop song about motherhood, is being promoted to radio stations across the United States by Nashville-based Bill Wence Promotions. The song is the second single from her "Someday Is Today" CD.

            "Response to 'Josie Rae' and other songs from the CD has been wonderful," said Allen, who will launch her "Blue Ridge Mountains" tour later this year. "My new single expresses a mother's love for a daughter. The song prompts tearful reactions from mothers of all ages everywhere I perform. It's a reflection of what I've experienced raising my children."

            The "Someday Is Today" CD features 11 original songs inspired by real-life experiences. The artist describes her sound as a versatile mix of blues-accented country, pop and Americana with hints of Aretha Franklin, Janis Joplin, Elton John, and Patsy Cline. The online retailer iTunes named the album "New and Noteworthy" shortly after it was released. "Josie Rae" and other selections from the album can be heard at http://www.TheAmyAllen.com and purchased from iTunes at https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/someday-is-today/id710800873?ign-mpt=uo%3D4.

            In the song "Josie Rae", the singer-songwriter writes: "You make my world such a wonderful place to stay... Thanks for making everyday for me Mother's Day." Allen penned the song for her daughter, drawing inspiration from the unforgettable, life-changing experiences mothers have while raising children.
           
          According to a reviewer for Skope Magazine, the artist has an "irresistible, bubbly personality backed by powerful vocals that evoke real emotion. She sings loud and proud in the song "Josie Rae" about her daughter. When she is describing her [daughter's] smile, you can't help but grin ear-to-ear yourself."

            Produced and recorded in Nashville by Denny Martin Productions, "Someday Is Today" offers heartfelt ballads, mid-tempo crowd pleasers, and rock-accented dance numbers. Allen is joined by an all-star cast of Nashville session musicians, including guitarist Scott Neubert, background vocalists Jaimee Paul and Vickie Carrico, electric guitarist Jason Roller, and keyboardist Steve Peffer. The album, which retails for $15 (USD) and $9.99 (USD) for digital sales at iTunes, is distributed by Wormwood Records.

            "I produce a lot of artists in my studio, and Amy is truly an original," said Denny Martin, who co-wrote her bluesy ballad, "Cryin' Time". "Her natural-given voice is stunning in its clarity and expressiveness. Her sense of humor and joyful personality come through in her writing and her singing. I consider myself extremely fortunate to know her, to write with her, and to produce her. The world is about to hear what I've been hearing for more than two years."

            Allen recently performed to full houses at the South Arkansas Arts Center in El Dorado, Ark., and the Co-Creators Coffeehouse and The Row in Nashville. Upcoming performances include the Acoustic Coffeehouse in Johnson City, Tenn., on Sept. 19 and the Songwriters Showcase in Fredericksburg, Va., on Sept. 26. The artist is available to perform at concert venues, arts centers, nightclubs, art galleries, hotels, casinos, festivals, assisted living centers, and churches.

            The "Someday Is Today" CD is available through major online retailers such as Amazon, iTunes and CD Baby. The singles "Someday Is Today", "Josie Rae", and "Cryin' Time" are available for download at iTunes. A portion of the proceeds from album and concert ticket sales will benefit local non-profit charities that provide the support and resources people need to discover their dreams.

            "Every note I sing or every note or chord I strum is given with all of the love I have for the song I am performing," the former Warner Music Nashville studio singer said. "My voice is the voice of someone who has been down many different roads, including motherhood."

            Allen is represented in the United States by Bill Wence Promotions, Whiting Publicity and Promotions, and Music City Artist Management, and in Europe by Hemifran.

            For more information about the CD or booking Allen for an upcoming event, call (870) 918-4403, send an email message to info@TheAmyAllen.com, or mail correspondence to Wormwood Records, 736 Bodenhamer Drive, El Dorado, AR 71730. To learn more about the artist, visit www.TheAmyAllen.com. Media and management-related inquiries may be directed to Arts@WhitingPublicity.com or by calling (615) 423-9857.

Nashville Film Festival Announces Winners of 2014 Short Film Division


            NASHVILLE -- The Nashville Film Festival has announced the winners of the Short Film Division for 2014. 

            The top six short films by Tennessee filmmakers were also announced. Winners will be announced at at 6 p.m. April 23 (Wednesday) at the TN Horizon Awards at NaFF’s downtown location at Walk of Fame Park.

            “We had more short films entered in our festival this year, than ever before," said NaFF Artistic Director, Brian Owens.  “Word has gotten around to filmmakers that NaFF is the festival to enter because winners in the short documentary, narrative and animation competitions are automatically given Academy Award consideration."

            As an Academy Award Qualifying festival, several NaFF films have gone on to earn nominations, including Academy Award-winner Shawn Christensen for "Curfew", Sean Durkin for "Mary Last Seen", Jamie Travis for "The Armoire", and Denis Villeneuve for "Next Floor". Recent NaFF selections that went on to Oscar nominations include "Buzkashi Boys", "Kavi", "Miracle Fish", "The Pig", "Instead of Abracadbra", and "West Bank Story".

Narrative Shorts:

Grand Jury Prize: "Rhino Full Throttle" – Erik Schmitt
Honorable Mention: "Afronauts" – Frances Bodomo
Honorable Mention: "I’m a Mitzvah" – Ben Berman

Documentary Shorts:

Grand Jury Prize: "The Last Days of Peter Bergmann" – Ciaran Cassidy
Honorable Mention: "Love. Love. Love." – Sandhya Daisy Sundaram

Animation Shorts:

Grand Jury Prize: "Rabbit and Deer" – Peter Vacz
Honorable Mention: "Yearbook" – Bernardo Britto

Special Jury Prize for Acting:

Ed Oxenbould: "The Amber Amulet & All God’s Creatures"

Women In Film & TV:

"Helpless" – Christene Hurley

Student Shorts:

Grand Jury Prize: "Pink Helmet Posse" – Kristelle Laroche, Benjamin Mullincosson
Honorable Mention: "Into the Silent Sea" – Andrej Landin

Young Filmmaker:

"Overflow" – Ruby Drake

The TN Shorts Finalists are:

"Bear With Me" – Chad McClarnon
"Elvis Loses His Excess…" - Riley Hooper
"Lower Broads" – Drew Langer
"Shadowland" – Steven Wesley Miller
"Sorry About Tomorrow" – Motke Dapp
"Straight Up: Tennessee Whiskey" – Eric Byford

            The Nashville Film Festival will continue through April 26. To learn more, visit www.nashvillefilmfestival.org.

Friday, April 18, 2014

Environmental Songstress Earth Mama Releases 'A Sense of Place'

By Chuck Whiting
MCAU Editor


            INDEPENDENCE, Va. (April 2014) – Singer/songwriter/eco-activist Joyce Rouse (AKA Earth Mama) has spent the past three years recording a new CD of original folk-Americana songs she hopes will give listeners "a better understanding of our home, the natural world."

            "A Sense of Place" reflects the spirit of Southern Appalachia with songs of kindness, hope, love, Mother Earth, good neighbors, family and life. Some of the songs encourage listeners to celebrate home by protecting the ecosystems, native species, and natural water systems that face destruction in the wake of industrialization, coal mining, and climate change. Others cherish the camaraderie of family members and neighbors who share homegrown crops and help each other out when times are tough. Listeners can experience the region by taking an imaginary flight on an oriole's wings or exploring the winding Blue Ridge Parkway.

            "I had written and recorded some songs centering around the Southern Appalachian Mountains where I have lived for many years," said Rouse, who has delighted audiences with toe-tapping music and green-living tips since 1994. "These songs seemed to be the anchor for this project. 'A Sense of Place' branches out to include a reggae song about local economy and local foods, as well as a pastiche of other genres and topics."

            The album begins with "Detour Road", a spirited, up-tempo "rocking chair" tune that encourages listeners to choose love and peace (rather than hate) when they reach the "wishbone in life's highway". The song captures the flavor of front porch sing-a-longs with gospel-esque vocal harmonies, bluesy harmonica, playful kazoo, and fast-paced percussion.

            "I got to sing 'Detour Road' in a set at the beautiful historic Liberty Theatre in Eunice, La.," the artist noted. "The crowd got really involved with the refrain, and some rhythm instruments were passed around. The song is one of my favorites on the CD because of the 'feel-good' sing-a-long energy, and even more special with my husband's contribution of harmonica to the track."

            Rouse switches gears with "To An Oriole", a soaring and drifting ballad that uses the words from Edgar Fawcett's famous poem. Here, the listener experiences the "splendor" of a black and orange-flected bird flying toward Heaven. The gentle production features Rouse's rich soprano vocals with gossamer piano track and stringed instruments.

            "Birder, naturalist and organic farmer Bruce Allen sent me that poem," Rouse continued. "Like many songwriters, I get these requests, and the poems don't always resonate with me. This one spoke right to my heart."

            The song "Heaven Down Below" reveals how bank takeovers, mindless development, mining, and mountaintop removal are wiping out whole towns, families and communities. An Appalachian farmer faces heartbreak when he loses his home on Whitetop Mountain. The singer promises to teach his children to "love the land and let it show." The song aches with imagery-filled lyrics, down-to-earth vocals, country fiddle, and a bedrock steady guitar foundation by Bryan Sutton.

            "Not far from where I live are mountains that are being blown to smithereens to extract the coal that is shipped all over the world to fuel electric power plants," the artist said. "Mountaintop removal is wiping out farms and homes that have been in families for more than a century. Mudslides and coal ash spills have killed people, but we get our electricity without interruption."

            Rouse celebrates the 75th anniversary of the Blue Ridge Parkway with "Ribbon of Stone", a mountain folk song that celebrates 469 miles of a region and culture "unlike any other on Earth". As the driver winds her way through breathtaking forests, hills and valleys, she hears the sounds of whistling warblers, looks out over mist-shrouded mountains, and touches the stitched fabrics of heirloom quilts.

            She honors the memory of the late Keith Palmer with the ballad "Only One", a song that was recorded as a demo back in 1992. As Rouse was finishing up the CD, the song kept "nagging" for attention. Rouse weaved vocal accents with new lines through Palmer's smooth tenor vocals to make the song a good fit for "A Sense Of Place".

            "Much of our sense of place in the natural world comes out of our childhood experiences of playing outside, wading in creeks, and exploring the wooded areas," the artist added. "After shows, people have shared their stories of loss at discovering the ecosystems of their childhood destroyed by development, pollution or industrial agriculture. That sorrow underscores how vital natural places are to children."

            The mountain reggae tune "If You Need A Chair" encourages individuals to build community and better ecology by trading or buying homemade goods (chairs, bread, fruits, vegetables, clothes, brooms, songs, cakes, and animals) from their neighbors. Rouse, who lives on a mountain just outside of Independence, Va., supports her community by buying locally grown foods. She is putting the finishing touches on a book based on the song.

            "A Sense Of Place" was recorded in Nashville, with Rouse serving as lead vocalist, songwriter and producer. Some of the selections feature stirring accompaniments by fiddler/banjoist/dobroist Wanda Burchfield, keyboardist Catherine Marx, and percussionist Paul Scholten. The project was mixed by sound engineer Rob Matson.

            "I love to hear instrumental breathing spaces in music to deeply absorb the lyrics," Earth Mama reflected. "Listeners need time to absorb the depth and nuance of some lyrics, so I make an effort to leave spaces for the heart and soul of the work to blossom."

            The project and album-related performances have received positive reviews.

            "The concept of place runs through all the songs," raves fan Mary Lou Dolan. "'If You Need a Chair' is the perfect local economy song. I'm taking it to our group's next meeting as 'local' is what we are all about."

            "'A Sense of Place' is a wonderful, 10-song ride that will make you smile, make you move, and make you ponder, reflect and feel enriched by the musical messages," writes Birdsong recording artist Lindy Gravelle. "The songs are so well written, masterfully produced, and performed by Earth Mama. The Nashville musicians, singers and engineer she assembled all play their parts with just the right sounds to support her stylish vocals. She’s on a mission to raise our consciousness about life on Earth, and she does it with heart and humor, captivating and entertaining you the whole ride through."

            Earth Mama performs regularly at a wide variety of venues across the nation, including libraries, grade schools, universities, church groups, retreat centers, conferences, museums and festivals. She recently took on an artist-in-residence role in a small Louisiana town. The artist weaves threads of science, spirit and art into each concert and continues to write inspiring music in many styles with one goal in mind: “Helping Heal the Planet One Song at a Time.”
  
            A 15-year voting member of the Grammy Awards, Rouse's songs have been recorded and/or performed by artists such as Maureen McGovern, Marie Osmond, and the McCarter Sisters. She has written theme and event songs for environmental and peace organizations such as the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, UNESCO, and the International Earth Charter. She recently recorded an environmental public service announcement for La Leche League. Her music has been used by choral societies, children's choirs, and international choirs, as well as community-building events. In 1995, her song, "Standing on the Shoulders", was chosen as the theme song for a national event in Washington, D.C., celebrating the 75th anniversary of the 19th Amendment.

            In 2008, she recorded “Virginia Beauty, A Love Song for the Commonwealth”, an anthem that has been widely circulated as a possible new state song. The Highland Camerata featured the song in its Minds Wide Open program honoring Virginia women in the arts. In 2011, the Virginia Choral Society of Newport News, Va., debuted a new eight-part choral arrangement for larger choirs arranged by artistic director James Powers. Rouse earned a bachelor's degree in home economics from Iowa State University and a master's degree in earth literacy from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College in Indiana. Rouse and her husband, Richard, live in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Southwest Virginia.

            "The recent passing of Pete Seeger and review of his life and body of work is a potent reminder of the power of the right song at the right time to influence a movement, or to create space in people's hearts to look at old patterns of behavior and steer a course for better actions," Rouse said. "I am standing on his shoulders, as well as others like Woody Guthrie, Joan Baez, Malvina Reynolds, and Marvin Gaye. I am proud to follow in their tradition and grateful that 'A Sense of Place' is gaining interest locally and beyond!"

            "A Sense of Place", which retails for $15, is available at www.EarthMama.org, www.cdbaby.com, and www.Amazon.com. Digital downloads are available at www.iTunes.com and other online retailers. For more information about the CD or the artist, call (276) 773-8529 or send an e-mail message to Joyce@EarthMama.org. To listen to selections from the album, visit http://www.earthmama.org/hearasenseofplace.php.



'Breaking the Chains' Concert to Benefit Autism Awareness on April 29 in Nashville


            NASHVILLE – The 13th annual "Breaking the Chains" concert for Autism Awareness will take place April 29 (Tuesday) at the Bluebird Café, 4104 Hillsboro Road, in Nashville.
 
            The concert will be divided into two performances. The first will begin at 6 p.m., and the second will begin at 9 p.m. Admission to the early show is free, but donations will be accepted for Autism Tennessee (AT), formerly known as the Autism Society of Middle Tennessee.  Tickets for the 9 p.m. show are $12 each with proceeds going to AT.  Reservations for both shows are strongly recommended and can be made online at www.bluebirdcafe.com (preferred method) or by calling the Bluebird Café at (615) 383-1461.

            Since the "Breaking the Chains" concert series began, thousands of dollars have been raised over the years for autism education, advocacy, and support projects.

 Performing at the 6 p.m. show will be concert organizer Tammy Vice, Stephen Lee Veal, John Swaim ,Tony Ray Jones, and Logan Blade.  The 9 p.m. show will feature Jim McBride, Wood Newton, Jerry Salley, and Les Kerr. Logan Blade will open the 9 p.m. show.

Les Kerr
            Autism is a lifelong, neurological condition that significantly affects how a person perceives the world, interacts with other people, and communicates. It is estimated that an Autism Spectrum Disorder will occur in one of every 68 births (source: CDC, 2012).
 
Vice, who initiated the annual event, has recorded several CDs for GodsChild Records including her latest, "More than Just Getting By". One of her daughters, Morgan, is on the autism spectrum. The Vice family was featured in the book "From Heartache to Hope", dedicated to showing how Tennesseans cope with autism.

            “One of the goals of Breaking the Chains is to raise awareness about autism,” said Vice, who is very active in the Middle Tennessee autism community.  “I’m delighted that not only have we been able to educate people about autism at the event, but we’ve also been able to raise thousands of dollars for ASMT to provide educational materials, thanks to the people who attend.”

            Making this concert even more unique is the participation of two young people who have lived with Autism their entire lives. Morgan Vice, Tammy’s 20-year-old daughter, will begin the evening with a ribbon cutting and performance with her mother.

            Twenty-two year old country artist Logan Blade, who was diagnosed with Autism at age 2, will perform during both shows. Though conversationally challenged, his singing voice has been compared to Josh Turner, and he released his first CD in 2012. He has joined Turner on stage during the Grand Ole Opry.  The "Breaking the Chains" concert will be the official release event for his new CD, "Unspoken".

            More about Autism Tennessee can be found online at www.autismtn.org.

Wood Newton


Thursday, April 17, 2014

Auditioning, Voiceover Acting, Music Licensing Among Panel Topics at NaFF


            NASHVILLE -- The Nashville Film Festival will offer a number of informative panels for composers, actors, music publishers, screenwriters, producers, directors and others. Here's a list with topics, dates and times.


            * "Music, Movies And TV: Sag-Aftra Explains It All" - April 18 (Friday) at 4 p.m.

            Whether you're writing songs for film and television, wanting to know what it's like to be a regular on a network series, or working behind the scenes with Oscar-winning filmmakers Joel and Ethan Coen, let professional members of SAG-AFTRA and IATSE help you understand the ins and outs of today's entertainment landscape. Join acclaimed singer-songwriter/producer (Toby Keith's' "White Trash With Money") and actress ("Cast Away", "No Regrets") Lari White, actor Ed Amatrudo (Glenn Goodman on ABC's "Nashville", "NYPD Blue" and AMC's new "Halt And Catch Fire") and two-time Academy Award nominee for sound mixing Peter F. Kurland ("Inside Llewyn Davis" and "No Country For Old Men") for a unique and informative entertainment industry discussion. 

            * "The Art Of Auditioning" - April 19 (Saturday) at 10 a.m.

            J.Karen Thomas (actor, ABC's "Nashville," Lifetime's "Drop Dead Diva," and 2014 NaFF selections "Boulevard", "The Identical"), Robin Daugherty (audition coach, actor, 2014 NaFF selection "Chasing Ghosts"), Jessejames Locorriere (Cinemax's "Banshee," "Turn," for AMC, and Showtime's "Homeland"), Christopher Close (actor, ABC's "Nashville", CBS's "Without A Trace," and "Unspeakable Indiscretions") and Jason Marsden (actor, "Blue Like Jazz") will walk participants through the current trends in auditioning for the camera, finding an agent, self-taping for auditions and other issues in the business, using demonstrations and panel discussions. Moderated by Susannah Devereux (actor, 2014 NaFF selection "Chasing Ghosts").



            * "Voiceover Acting" - April 20 (Sunday) at 1 p.m.

            Jason Marsden shares the secrets of successful voice-over acting. His deep resume includes the voice of Impulse on DC Nation's "Young Justice", Conrad "Duke" Hauser in "GI Joe: Renegades", various Disney characters - including Haku in the Academy Award -winning "Spirited Away" - and on-screen appearances in "Full House", "Step By Step" and "Will and Grace".



            * " Music Licensing 2014" - April 24 (Thursday) at 3 p.m.

            A panel of industry experts in film, television, advertising and branding will address the current industry trends and hot topics in the world of music licensing.  A must-attend for directors, producers, music providers, artists, songwriters, labels and publishers. 

            * "The Writer's Hustle" - April 25 (Friday) at 12:30 p.m.

            Four Industry professionals who have seen scripts shopped, shot, sold and dropped share anecdotes about what writers are in for after their scripts are written: "The Hustle". How do you get your script read? What happens on set once the scripts in the actors' hands? Where do you stand in Hollywood once your script is being shopped around? Join actor-writer Richard Speight Jr. ("Thank You For Smoking"), David Alford (ABC's "Nashville"), Hollywood publicist and creative marketing consultant Harold Loren, and filmmaker and screenwriter Nick Egan ("Red Light Runners", "Oasis: Definitely Maybe") for the inside scoop.

            * "Song Stories" - April 25 (Friday) at 11 a.m.

            Each piece of music that appears in films, television and advertising has a unique story of how it made the final cut.  Music supervisors in the film, television, advertising and branding industries will share clips and stories of how songs, score and production music made it into their projects. This panel provides a great opportunity to learn how the process works by example.  

            To learn more about the NaFF panels, visit https://www.nashvillefilmfestival.org/2014-festival/schedule/.



WIFT Nashville to Honor Women Documentarians with Panel and Special Film Screenings


            NASHVILLE -- Women in Film & Television Nashville, with partner Lunafest, is pleased to invite you to a full day of programming on April 18 (Friday) featuring women documentarians. This is a first for the Nashville Film Festival – consider attending this one of a kind celebration. All activities will occur at the Country Music Hall of Fame VIP Tent.



Official Time Schedule for April 18 (Friday):

* 1 – 3 p.m. -- Local Film makers Movies:

            “Sbocciare” - Jaclyn Edmonson
            “Josie!”      - Jonathan Fraser
            “NASA's Space Shuttle” with William Shatner  - Guy Noffsinger
            “Hunt for the Lost Clipper”  - Guy Noffsinger
            “The Rosenwald School”  - Aviva Kempner

* 3 – 4:15 p.m. -- Lunafest Screening – Short films made by women for women about women for the benefit of women.

* 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. -- “In Your Face, Under Your Skin” Documentary Panel.

Aviva Kempner, acclaimed scriptwriter, director, producer and Peabody Award winner, for "The Life and Times of Hank Greenberg".

Joanna Luchessi, Sr. V.P. Entertainment Division, City National Bank of Beverly Hills, discussing  “How to put money to your project”.

Guy Noffsinger, Sr. Producer, News and Multimedia division, NASA, Washington, D.C., producer and director of NASA released Television and Film projects such as "Space Shuttle"; "NASA Remembers Neil Armstrong"; and "Friendship 7- 50th Anniversary". A surprise panel member will be on-hand. Moderator - Demertria Kalodimos, Nashville Documentary Filmmaker, NBC local affiliate WSMV; News Reporter winner of countless awards and citations as well as 13-time Emmy Award winner

* 5:45 – 6:15 p.m. -- Award Ceremony:
                       
            Best Female Director
            Best Female Short Film
                       

* 6:30 – 8 p.m. -- Celebrations:

            Music by Whisky Wagon
            Food by Wholy Crepe
            Wine by The Bottle Shop

Additional Sponsors:

            City National Bank
            Mac Cosmetics
            Moxie Petites
            Your Williamson Magazine
            Arbonne Skin Care
            City Girl Chocolates
            Doing Good
            GOTR


            Get your ticket here: http://www.wiftnashville.org/this-month/

Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Composers, Songwriters, Record Labels and Publishers Invited to Submit Works for 'Film-Com'


            NASHVILLE - Tennessee composers, songwriters, record labels and publishers are invited to submit original works (tracks) for special VIP pitch opportunities before, during and after "Film-Com", a filmmakers conference that will occur in Nashville from June 13-22.


            According to music industry professional Leonard Wolf, "Film-Com" has been highly supportive of Tennessee music makers in many important ways, and the latest opportunity is a double-barreled one. Tennessee composers and others are invited to submit tracks for the VIP Mp3 player and also the "Film-Com" online Mp3 player. The players will be provided to filmmakers. Each track will be labeled with the submitter's  name and/or contact info. 

            Individuals can submit multiple works and those not easily pinned down works in several genres. While the organization can't guarantee that all tracks will be included on the VIP player, organizers want to include as many great pieces as possible. All quality tracks will be featured online at least until the next "Film-Com" in 2015.

            Submissions are $10 each (one song/instrumental); $7.50 each (two to five songs/instrumentals); and $5 each (10 songs/instrumentals).

            "Let's show the world the bountiful, diverse abilities of our state's music makers and help support this great annual event, which offers networking opportunities with all levels of media makers," said Wolf, who noted that the Mp3 presentations are a non-profit effort. 

            The deadline to be considered for the VIP Mp3 player is April 20 (Sunday). The web player aspect will be open for submissions on an ongoing basis. 

            For submission info, visit http://film-com.com/mp3player-submissions/.

            For information about "Film-Com", visit http://www.Film-Com.com.



Ray Liotta, Béla Fleck and Ashley Judd to Walk Red Carpet at Nashville Film Festival


            NASHVILLE - The Nashville Film Festival (NaFF) has announced the celebrities scheduled for the 10-day event running from April 17-26 at Regal Green Hills.

            “We are excited to welcome these actors and directors,” said Artistic Director Brian Owens. “The public is invited to attend the red carpet, along with the media. All red carpet events take place at Regal Green Hills on the lower level lobby.”

A worker lays red carpet at Regal Green Hills.
Celebrity/Actor Red Carpet:

Opening Day, April 17, 5:30 – 7 p.m.:

Robyn Lively, Chasing Ghosts
Seth Green, The Identical
Brian Greraghty, The Identical
Ray Liotta, The Identical
Joe Pantoliano, The Identical
Waylon Payne, The Identical
Blake Rayne, The Identical

Friday, April 18, 5:30 – 7 p.m.:

James Keach, Glen Campbell…I'll Be Me
The Family of Glen Campbell, Glen Campbell…I’ll Be Me
Sharon Lawrence, Grace.
Annika Marks, Grace.
Chase Mowen, Grace.
Juston Stens, I Lay Where I Fall

Saturday, April 19, 5 – 7 p.m.:

Jimbeau Hinson, Beautiful Jim
Béla Fleck, Béla Fleck: How to Write a Banjo Concerto
Abigail Washburn, Béla Fleck: How to Write a Banjo Concerto
Gia Mantegna, Undiscovered Gyrl

Sunday, April 20, 5:30 – 7 p.m.:

Bret Roberts, 9 Full Moons
Luke Benward, Field of Lost Shoes
William Bell, Take Me to the River
Frayser Boy, Take Me to the River
Cody Dickenson, Take Me to the River
Jerry Harrison, Take Me to the River
Al Kapone, Take Me to the River
Boo Mitchell, Take Me to the River
Bobby Rush, Take Me to the River
The Winding Stream
The Winding Stream

Wednesday, April 23 – 8:30 p.m.:

Elizabeth Cook, Long Way Home
Elizabeth Cook, Performance at Walk of Fame Park Downtown 6:15 p.m.

Thursday, April 24 - 6 p.m.:

Roberto Aguirre, Boulevard

Saturday, April 26 – 3:30 p.m.:

Ashley Judd, The Identical

Attending Directors include:

Opening Day, April 17: Chasing Ghosts, Joshua Shreve, The Identical, Dustin Marcellino, Happy Valley, Amir Bar-Lev.

Friday, April 18: Little Brother, Serik Aprimov, Love Me, Maryna Er Gorbach and Mehmet Bahadir Er, Glen Campbell...I'll Be Me, James Keach, 1982, Tommy Oliver, Buzzard, Joel Potrykus, I Lay Where I Fall, Drew Stubbs

Saturday, April 19: Stream of Love, Agnes Sos, The Starfish Throwers, Jesse Roessler,The Ballad of Shovels & Rope, Jace Freeman, Something, Anything, Paul Harrill, Beautiful Jim, Rex Jones, Dierks Bentley: Riser, Wes Edwards, Béla Fleck: How to Write a Banjo Concerto, Béla Fleck, The 78 Project Movie, Alex Steyermark

Sunday, April 20: Banjo Romantika: American Bluegras and the Czech Imagination, Shara Lange,Blackout: On Swan Pond, Scott Colthorp, As It Is in Heaven, Joshua Overbay, Besa: The Promise, Rachel Goslins Noble, Stephen Bradley, Take Me to the River, Martin Shore, The Winding Stream, Beth Harrington, I Believe in Unicorns, Leah Meyerhoff, Wild Domestic, Kyle Komline, Adam Newport-Berra

Monday, April 21: Peace After Marriage, Ghazi Albuliwi

Tuesday, April 22: Congratulations!, Mike Brune

Wednesday, April 23: When the World's On Fire, James Clauer, Decade With an Unsigned Rock Band, Criss Cheatham

Thursday, April 24: The Invisible Collection, Bernard Attal, Johnny Winter: Down and Dirty, Greg Olliver, Boulevard, Dito Montiel, Closer to God, Billy Senese

Friday, April 25: Lucky Them, Megan Griffiths