Kansas Band-Speaking with New Lead Vocalist Ronnie Platt

 photo credit Mark Schierholz

 

(left to right.Rich Williams, Billy Greer, David Ragsdale, Ronnie Platt, Phil Ehart, Dave Manion)

Kansas Band- Speaking with New Lead Vocalist Ronnie Platt

Kansas is a progressive rock band that’s recently had it’s 40^th anniversary in 2013. Songs like “Carry on My Wayward Son” “Dust in the Wind” and “Point of No Return” are a few of their most influential songs. They have produced “8 gold albums, 3 sextuple-platinum albums , 1 platinum live album and a million-selling single.” A documentary came out in early 2015 (Miracles Out of Nowhere), chronicling Kansas from its origins in Topeka, Kansas.

In the fall of 2014, Ronnie Platt replaced lead singer Steve Walsh. Ronnie Platt grew up in Bellwood and still lives in the suburbs of Chicago today. We sat down with Ronnie to talk about how he came to be a part of the legendary band “Kansas”. (Kansas performed on July 7, 2015 in  Elk Grove, IL)

How long have you been a musician and what was an early influence?

RP: My sister brought home a guitar; I was about 10 or 11. I can remember singing and being part of a musical family. Both of my grandmothers were gifted musicians, grandfather played professionally, and most of my family was musically inclined. When I was young that’s what everybody did, music. In grade school, they asked who wanted to be the band. This is when I started playing the trombone, guitar, bass guitar and more singing. In high school, I was in a rock band and totally consumed; focusing on listening to music and vocals. I felt most comfortable playing the keyboard-accompaniment with filling in the parts. I still play a lot of bass guitar. When I’m having a bad day, I’ll pick it up and play.

Who inspired you as a musician growing up in the Chicago suburbs?

RP: I was always into progressive rock especially in the 70’s, Kansas, Genesis, Styx, Rush. On the radio, there was a different variety of music, Jackson 5, Led Zepplin, Rare Earth..etc. I was a freshman in high school ‘76, ’77. I’d always been a huge fan of Kansas: LeftOverture…”Carry On My Wayward Son” and “Dust in the Wind”. I had a turntable. There was a great feel and depth to the music in which I connected and gravitated towards. In the 80’s the hair got even bigger, and rock changed (Motley Crue and Poison)What did you do before singing in “Kansas”?

RP: I played in the bands, ARRA and Shooting Star. My musical ambition was just to get better. I did a wide variety of singing, performing over the years. I did drive a truck for 25 years..it helped to pay the bills. But I never deviated from what I wanted…my progressive style of music and playing. One day while performing with Shooting Star, I had the chance to meet Kansas, Cheryl Crow, and Journey. We opened for them. Steve Walsh was planning to retire as the Lead Singer. Rich Williams and Phil Ehart were watching Shooting Star. I friended Rich on FB. Ironically I heard about the retirement of Steve about this time. I set up a meeting and flew to Atlanta. After few meetings and deliberations, I became the new lead singer for Kansas! It seemed like a good fit and the guys welcomed me in. Dave Manion came in around the same time as I did.

What were you thinking your first time on stage with Kansas? What was running through your mind?

RP: My very first show was Oklahoma City, Oklahoma in Fall 2014. I remember thinking “Where’s my heater?” It was cold and windy, not what I had expected. It made me preoccupied with warming up and keeping my fingers moving. It was exhilarating! My first show in Chicago was Nov. 1 of 2014. My sister, mother, and other family members were able to come. The rehearsals were intense and we practiced like every day long hours. I had been practicing for something like this my whole life. I was ready when the opportunity came. This year has flown by quickly….we’ve done Brazil 3 times, Chile and Mexico and many other cities.

What are some differences between groups from the “60’s to the 90’s” and “millennium bands”?

RP: The marketing structure has changed drastically. From LP’s to Itunes, Spotify, Sound Hound, etc. Professional acts (touring) are more refined and precise. Every move and note is calculated/choreographed. Back in the day, there was more room for improvisation. Now everything is pre-recorded, this restricts the artist from venturing into the unknown. I miss bands having room to breathe on stage….more of a live feel when no 2 shows are exactly the same. It enabled artists to hone their craft more by discovery. It was more authentic and more organic.

Who are you in the group?

RP:One day…this big dude came up and wanted autographs from the group. Unexpectedly, he called me a “Beast” after the concert the next day. After that, the guys joked about this. It felt great to be part of a group of guys that knows what is important. Great friends, good times, and laughter. We are cut from the same cloth. We are family. No one is above the other.

What can the fans expect from the next album from Kansas? The last record was 2000!

RP: This is so surreal for me! We started back in the studio within the last couple of weeks. Performing new material will be an awesome experience for all of us. It’s mind blowing. I never would have conceived of this. I can’t compare this to anything in my life!

Any last comments?

RP: I feel like I won the “Rock and Roll Lottery.” I’m blessed and honored for this great opportunity to be a part of a legendary band called “Kansas”. You have to be worthy and really have a passion for what you do. Recently, I watched America’s got Talent. There was a little girl that played beautifully, but she got nervous and stopped. Howie Mandel encouraged her to continue because she was gifted. My point is that if you love something so much, you can’t stop. Desire to get better. I’ve had this mindset my entire life. Sing better, hit the next highest note. Play guitar better. Never stop. Not picking up where you left off..because you’re actually going backwards  and losing ground. Be productive and never stop moving forward. Be persistent and Don’t be complacent. If you love what you do, hone your craft and do it to the best of your ability.

Hollywood’s Best kept Secret, Screenwriter Jeff Schimmel

by Okema “Seven” Gunn

Jeff Schimmel is one of Hollywood’s best kept secrets. The fact that he’s an expert at research makes him a remarkable writer. He’s written and developed many projects over the years, but he started out in comedy. Let’s take a look at what he has to say about his peculiar path to Hollywood!

1.When did you discover that you wanted to be a screenwriter?

JS: The truth is, I didn’t. My case is very unique, and probably one of the strangest you’ll ever hear about when it comes to screenwriting. I pretty much fell into the business after writing two screenplays – while I was supposed to be studying for the bar exam. I was hired to write the first script, with absolutely no experience whatsoever, and I sold the second one based on a studio’s reaction to the first one. It’s unlikely that it will happen to anyone else, and I have Rodney Dangerfield and Harold Ramis to thank for introducing me to screenwriting and working with me at the kitchen table every day. In a way, I’m envious of the people who know they want to be writers. Knowing the ropes is key, and I learned most of it the very hard way.

2.Who inspired you to become a writer with your first manuscript?

JS: Let me back up from the last question. I’m the biggest movie fan around, but especially those films from the 1930’s through the 1980’s. I love movies to the point of nausea – in other people. When I was a kid, I got caught sneaking into a theater in New York. I wanted to see “Marooned,” but my father wouldn’t give me fifty cents for the ticket. When the usher asked me why I snuck in, I told him that my favorite thing in the world was movies. He smiled and said, “Me, too. That’s why I work here.” He let me in. The funny this is, “Marooned” wasn’t all that fantastic. Oh, yeah. The question. Who inspired me? It wasn’t a who, it was a what. One night, while I was in law school, I dreamed a spy movie. I woke up, wrote down as much as I could remember, and when I was bored in class, I would daydream and fill in the blanks in the story. Through a series of ridiculous events, I ended up selling that idea to Jerry Abrams and Jerry Eisenberg. The first Jerry is J.J. Abrams’ father. When I got the check for my story, I thought to myself, “Hey, this is easy! Why do people always say it’s hard to get a break in Hollywood?”

3. What 3 things did you learn about writing that shocked you?

JS: When I was just starting out in the 80’s, nothing shocked me. Working in the entertainment industry was all so new to me, I never knew what to expect. For that reason, I just took it as it came. But now that I’ve been writing and producing for several years – nothing shocks me! Of course, that’s because I’ve come to understand that this business has to be the toughest around. So, if I hear about something happening with a project, good or bad, I’m not surprised. Hollywood is a place where great things happen to good people, good things happen to horrible people, bad things happen to awesome people, well, you understand. Just when you think you have it figured out, you’re immediately, and perhaps cosmically, reminded that you don’t. Still, working in TV and film is so exciting, so rewarding, I get excited every time I set foot on a studio lot or inside a soundstage. I’m like a child, and I think that’s a good thing. The longer you can stay young at heart, the longer you’ll last.

4. Why is comedy difficult to write and how is it different from other genres?

JS: Yes, comedy is hard. However, in my experience, everything is equally hard. I always marvel at someone like Burt Bacharach, a man who wrote literally hundreds of songs. I can’t even imagine how he does it. It must be amazing to hear music in your head and be able to arrange the notes and put them down on paper. Then, someone like Burt Bacharach walks on the set, meets a screenwriter and says, “How the hell do you come up with stories and the words people say?” It’s all work, but when I’m writing, and I’m in my zone, it’s no longer a chore. I get lost in it, and before I know it, hours have passed – and hopefully, I’m not still on the same page! Comedy isn’t easier or harder than anything else. What scares me is when people who just aren’t funny are convinced they should be writing the next Seth Rogan movie.

5: What projects have you written/produced that turned out different than expected?

JS: Wow. I feel like every one of my answers is off target. I’m not trying to be evasive, or come at this from a weird angle, but I look at things as being all kinds of grey, and not so much black and white. The rules in screenwriting might be set in stone, but the experience is fluid, almost alive and ever changing. I’m too smart to mention anything by name, so let’s just say I’ve written some TV shows that were funny at the first draft stage, but were downright tragic by the time they were taped. It’s usually a symptom of too many rewrites, which you can’t control. Then again, I produced some stuff I thought was so awful, I opened a bottle of Chinaco tequila at the taping and had a few shots during audience warm-up. That project, a comedy special, went on to get high ratings and make the network $20 million in DVD sales. As a rule, it’s the scripts you think are the best that turn out receiving the most notes, and it’s the work you did while stopped at a red light, on the way to a meeting, that is often accepted as nearly flawless. It’s essential for writers to have a sense of humor.

6.How did you get the nickname the “Doc”?

JS: When I was a kid, I used to think I wanted to be a doctor. I saw myself on that big, white medical ship, Project Hope, traveling the world to help those less fortunate. Okay, first of all, I get seasick watching “Love Boat” reruns. I’m not kidding. I’m so sensitive, I can’t watch anything that’s shot on anything other than a locked down camera or Steadicam. So, in school, my friends started calling me Dr. Schimmel. Later, when I was a pre-teen, and a huge Steve McQueen fan, I preferred that “Doc” be associated with Doc McCoy, the ultra-cool bank robber in “The Getaway.” Years later, when I earned a Doctorate in Law, the “Doc” thing resurfaced. But enough about me. If we ever meet, be sure to ask me about my devotion to Steve McQueen, and why remaking his movies is a sin.

7: How is your military duty, CIA interest, and martial arts all connected? How have they helped your writing?

JS: The military stuff is kind of an obsession with me. When I have a few months off, I like to volunteer with the Israel Defense Force, but not in a combat role. I provide logistical support. Hmm. Whatever that is. But there’s nothing quite like living on base, in crappy barracks, with really bad food, no TV, no computer or internet, no phone, no nothing, and just a few dozen paratroopers to keep you company. As for the CIA, they offered me a job when I graduated from law school, but I was too paranoid to take it. When I asked if they would ever send a fellow agent to assassinate me if I screwed up, their response was, “You watch too many movies.” They’re right, I do. The martial arts era in my early life was just catching lightning in a bottle. I persisted until I was accepted into one of the most sought after schools in the world, and I’ll always be grateful. The way all of this has helped my writing is the way anyone’s life experiences, good or bad, happy or sad, find their way onto their pages. You write what you know, and the more you experience, the more you can relate to – and the more your characters can live through you. I look at it this way. If I never got kicked in the groin by a girl I liked in junior high, I wouldn’t really be able to describe it accurately. Then again, if I had my way, I’d go back in time and skip the part where I learn how to write about being in the worst pain ever. If you find yourself in a situation where you’re writing about something you’ve never actually seen, heard, tasted, felt, or experienced, there’s an easy fix for that. It’s called research. You can never do enough.

8: How have you been able to maintain your career as a writer? Does your brother (comedian) help with some of your writing/jokes?

JS: Writing careers are like the proverbial rollercoaster. You’re up, then down, then up. If you’re lucky, you can have more ups than downs. Sadly, the longevity of a writer’s career isn’t up to the writer. No matter how hard you work, or how prolific you are, someone has to hire you or buy your work. It isn’t a 9 to 5 job, it isn’t a salaried position. Aside from talent and energy, the most important thing a writer can have is a means of dealing with the hurt of rejection. Some people laugh it off, but others, like a good friend of mine, quit. One of the best writers I’ve ever known is living in Alabama and no longer writing because he was tired of having his heart broken. If you think I’m being negative, I’m not. Just keeping it real. But you should be encouraged by this. If you’re tough and your work has merit, and you don’t give up, it can happen for you. Trust me, if a guy with no education in writing movies can have a nearly 30 year career, you can definitely do it. As for my brother, Robert, he passed away in 2010. He was a very well known comedian, and a brilliant joke writer. His talent was to come up with jokes in an instant, organically, based on what he was going through at that moment. But when it came down to sitting at a desk and working on a script, that’s where he fell off. We worked together on a few projects, but they always resulted in fights. I’m extremely OCD when it comes to my work, and he was the opposite.

9: Where is your “secret” writing place?

JS: I’ve written in libraries, I’ve had many production offices, I’ve tried it in the local Starbucks, etc. Like everyone else. Lately, I’ve been working almost exclusively in my home office. It’s a loft near the laundry room, so I know that when I put in a load of dark, I have at least 45 minutes to type. Then, when the washer stops, and I transfer the clothes to the dryer, I know I have another 45. For every load I do, I get 90 minutes of work done. It’s not the ideal system, but my wife loves it. My advice to anyone trying to focus on writing a script is to give yourself every advantage. Sitting in a loud coffee shop with fifty other people isn’t going to help with your concentration. Blasting music in my earbuds while I write isn’t something I can do, and I don’t know how others do it. Music in the room is awesome, but I need a certain amount of distance from it. Another way to get more work done is to log off Facebook, email, and have someone hide your phone. If you’re smiling at any of this, it means you know you aren’t being as productive as you could be.

10.What advice would you give an aspiring screenwriter?
JS: The best advice I could give an aspiring screenwriter, especially in Chicago, is to come to my two day seminar on July 25th and 26th. I’m not kidding. I put together a unique, completely original curriculum that will teach writers all the crucial stuff they won’t find in books, and expose them to the inside information they won’t hear from other writers or producers. People who want to be successful screenwriters need to ask themselves if their career is worth the investment of two days. I wish this class would’ve existed when I was starting out. I would’ve cried a lot less!

For more info about Jeff Schimmel and Maximum Screenwriting

Go to http://www.maximumscreenwriting.com

Jurassic World: Evolution

Our adventure story begins as Claire Dearing, a meticulous Operations Manager, (Bryce Dallas Howard from the Help) is tirelessly working to gain sponsors (like Samsung or Verizon) for the next big Super Dinosaur (Indominous Rex) instead of spending time with her nephews. This will eventually cause a huge problem.  On the other hand Owen Grady, (Chris Pratt from Guardians of the Galaxy) has been hired to bond and train Velociraptors. He will be dubbed in this film the “Bad Ass Boyfriend…”Riding with the Raptors”.

Humans are at it again. Trying to make an amusement park into Dinosaur City. Innocent civilians.. men, women, and children are unaware that they are in grave danger.  Claire summons Grady to try to figure out a way to contain the problem on the island of Isla Nublar. Everything goes awry because of one slight miscalculation. You WILL see humungous, razor, sharp teeth, blood and guts, flying babysitter, strange water animals, sophisticated technology and above all else you will learn the importance of Alpha males in the story….This action-packed film is a crowd pleaser for all ages 5 and beyond. 3D makes the Dinosaurs come alive even more. This movie is funny, sad, and packed with gore. Throw in a love affair..between a sexy hero and a damsel in distress… and now you got yourself a humdinger; an ultimate treat! You’ll see.

An amusement park with Dinosaurs. What a thing to behold! Humans think that dinosaurs can be used however they wish. Prehistoric creatures are animals, too; a lesson that is very basic to nature. Allowing dinosaurs to evolve once again causes a major issue and may be unethical according to some practices. Would you go see a Dinosaur at the zoo? Of course you would. But what if it got out? Hmm….

Dinosaurs have always been a thing of curiosity. They are prehistoric animals of mystery. It’s not up to man to play God, history has proven that  arrogance with science can be costly. Somehow creation and evolution co-exist simultaneously in the strange and fascinating world of Paleontology. Jurassic World provides some unique perspectives on training Dinosaurs like Raptors and Tyrannosaurus Rex. Although the last film and the first are slightly different. The theme is still all encompassing. Playing God is a dangerous idea…especially when it comes to animals. Amusement is all fun and games until somebody gets hurt or killed. Experimentation can be rewarding, but what’s the cost? You will see…

The technology created in this film is remarkable! The scientist lab contains all kinds of exotic creatures used to make the Indominous Rex, like camouflage, etc. Technical elements like thermal imaging, Holograms, and the Gyrosphere certainly enhance the potential and capability of the evolving Jurassic World.

After this film, a flood of memories came back; I recalled a time in my childhood. My brother played with Dinosaur figures and…. later…my high school teacher, Mr. Abbott played the audiobook “Jurassic Park” while students worked on our art projects. This was my first real novel on tape. Who knew it would turn into one of the highest grossing film franchises of all time! After only 2 weeks in the box office, Jurassic World has garnered $1 billion in ticket sales.

Jurassic World is the fourth installment of the original novel by Michael Creighton called “Jurassic Park”. Michael Creighton was born in the great Windy City and this talented scholar was well versed in the particulars of many fields of science. Colin Trevarrow directed this science fiction, action-adventure film. Screenwriters include Derek Connolly, Rick Jaffa, Amanda Silver, and Colin Trevorrow.

Actors include but are not limited to:  Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard, Vincent D’Onofrio,Ty Simpkins, Nick Robinson, Omar Sy, B.D. Wong, and Irrfan Khan.

Pitch Perfect (2015) Review

Pitch Perfect (2015) Review: Could’ve been Aca-Better

By Okema Gunn

Pitch Perfect 2 (2015) is a musical comedy released by Universal Pictures. The original film, Pitch Perfect was loosely based on Pitch Perfect: The Quest for Collegiate Acapella Glory by Mickey Rapkin. The sequel begins where the Barden Bellas (an all-female a capella group) perform at a national competition at the Kennedy Center, Washington D.C, in front of an audience, the President, and the Obama family. The girls gyrate and sing to Ke$ha’s “Timber”, while Fat Amy (Rebel Wilson) comes out singin’ and swingin’ on “Wreckingball”. Fat Amy tears her costume in the crotch, while suspended in mid-air, and exposes her vagina to the world and the first family. This scandal embarrasses Barden University, the Bellas, and the federation. This debacle becomes known as “Muffgate”, which goes viral through all media outlets. The Bellas are banned from singing on the national competition level. They somehow are able to finagle their way to an agreement of re-instatement, which could bring recognition and finally redemption through “The international Competition”.  However, no American team has ever won a “World Title”.

The ending is predictable, but demonstrates a positive, bonding experience for the characters in the finale with Beyonce’s song “Run the World (Girls)”. This film focuses on Beca Mitchell (Anna Kendrick) finding her way in the world, transitioning into producing music for the first time; Fat Amy and her new relationship; and new-comer, Hailee Steinfeld (Emily Junk, Bella legacy), who develops as an aspiring songwriter.

I think sometimes writers think more is better. More is just more. There was an attempt for the characters to “find their sound” by bonding at a retreat. I wanted to be more involved in the characters’ lives. I don’t know how this could’ve been achieved, but “PP2” was lacking in this area.

The first film, Pitch Perfect, made slight comedic references to being overweight, immigration, and lesbianism. In the sequel, these issues were exaggerated to the n^th degree.  Again, anytime there is a sequel, there is bound to be an overabundance of clichés.  Satire can be a tricky device to embellish upon.

This was definitely a “chick flick” and I believe audiences were expecting more of a dose of Pitch Perfect. What came out of this, was more stereotypical language. I think the writer, Kay Cannon, was trying to go for more girl power fantastic again. It’s difficult to do anything good twice. However, I did find the film entertaining with its 90’s Battle Royale and special appearance by Green Bay Packers. Still, it was lacking in development. This was Elisabeth Bank’s first time directing. She is an actress, producer, the director for Pitch Perfect 2.  Pitch Perfect 2 opened to a $70.3 million dollar weekend beating out Mad Max (opening week) and Age of Ultron (third week). My rating for this film is 2 ½ stars out of 5.

**Just a reminder, popular does not always mean great. It just means a lot of people spent a ton of cash to see this film.

Insurgent (2015) Review

Insurgent is sci-fi dystopian action adventure movie; screenplay written by Akiva Goldman, Brian Duffield, Mark Bomback and directed by Robert Schwentke.  Insurgent is the second book in the Divergent trilogy, written by Veronica Roth. It is also the second installment and sequel to the The Divergent Series, released by Summit Entertainment and Lionsgate (time 119 min).

Roth wrote Divergent while she was a student at Northwestern University and eventually became published by Harper Collins.  Divergent was filmed in Chicago, Illinois and Insurgent was filmed in Atlanta, Georgia.

In this post-apocalyptic society that Roth has created, there are 5 factions: Abnegation, the selfless; Amity, the peaceful; Candor, the honest; Dauntless, for the brave; and Erudite, the intellectual. In this Chicago dystopian, each individual is forced to choose a faction. Those that are forced out of their group are called factionless.

Beatrice “Tris” Prior (Shailene Woodley), Caleb Prior (Ansel Elgort), Peter (Miles Teller), Tobias “Four” Eaton (Theo James) and his father Marcus (Ray Stevenson) have taken refuge with Amity after escaping a terrible battle with government soldiers controlled by Jeanine Matthews. Johanna Reyes (Octavia Spencer), the leader of Amity, warns them of the danger that insurgents bring to their peaceful faction. These band of rebels are hunted because Tris is a divergent and because they have crossed Jeanine (Kate Winslet), who has taken over the government council with Erudite. The hunted divergent and any supporters are decreed as a threat to society.

Tris must face her fears as she goes up against Jeanine and “The Dream Machine”. Tris is the only one who can take down the regime. Janine searches for the key to a box with a message that contains information that the ancestors have left. Janine will stop at nothing to find all divergent and destroy them, but not before she finds the key. The factionless join the rank of the rebels which include Tris and Four’s chosen faction, the Dauntless. Caleb Prior, Tris’s brother unexpectedly leaves them and goes off on his own returning to the Erudite. In the end, he is faced with the poor decisions that he has made. In this installment, Tris becomes more confident and tenacious. She is steadfast in her decisions to survive and save all of society. Now, that her parents are gone; she wants to take down Janine at any cost. Nothing will get in her way. Apparently, one thing that Tris has in common with Janine: domination.

There are many twists and turns in this film, which make it an excellent action film. I understood the movie better than I did the book because of the explicit details of her dreams. I loved the film Divergent and Insurgent was also a good source of entertainment. The special effects meshed well with the plot and sequencing, which demonstrated not only actions in the dreams, but also Tris’ emotions. This film felt very similar to the dream sequences in Inception (2010) with Christopher Nolen and Leonardo DiCaprio. Overall, I’d give this film 3 ½ stars out of 5.

Other notable Actors include: Ashley Judd, Naomi Watts, Mekhi Phifer, Maggie Q, Jai Courtney, Zoë Kravitz

 

 

 

 

Chicago International Movies and Music Festival (CIMMfest) 2015

Musician Josh Chicoine and Filmmaker Ilko Davidov decided to create a new festival that was a fusion of Movies and Music, thus CIMMfest (Chicago International Movies and Music Festival) was born. It is now in it’s 7^th year. Every year filmmakers, musicians, avid moviegoers and music lovers descend upon the Chicago scene to take part in the events of the CIMMfest. This year venues include over 99+ Films and bands from around the world. It takes place around the city in places like Wicker Park and Logan Square. The CIMMfest provides filmmakers and musicians the opportunity not only to collaborate, but to showcase and share their amazing talent. Chicago is the perfect city for this festival emphasizing a different perspective of joint ventures of movies and music. CIMMfest will take place April 16-19th, 2015. Co-Founder Josh Chicoine was gracious enough to share thoughts about his collaborative venture and involvement in the festival.

1.  How do you go about planning for CIMM (Chicago International Movies and Music Festival)?

JC: Complicated question. There is planning, but with no solid protocol.  The festival has evolved every year, so having a vision for success is probably the first step.  We have been working on the Milwaukee Ave footprint concept for a few years. We started with the dates then secured venue partnerships and holds afterwards.   We then launch our call for entries in the fall and start raising monies.  Fundraising and sales is much like programming.  We cast a big net and through many filters, fits, and starts, we end up with what the festival will look like.  It’s somewhat messy and we try to limit that, but a fest like ours has numerous musical genres from all over, finding audiences and partners takes us down many avenues.  Some opportunities bear fruit and others fall away.  We have a core festival that we then add on for as long as we can – until the print deadline.  Marketing keeps up with general messaging and becomes more program-specific the closer we get to the opening.

2. When CIMM first started what was the vision?

JC: The vision is very elementary. We show music-based films, connect as much live music to the films as possible, find intersections of film and live music wherever we could and let the chips fall where they may.  The vision wasn’t very far out past that particular year.  Maybe in year 3 when things were growing and we were still alive, the vision began to grow into something akin to what it actually is today.

3. How many movies and bands originally performed at the first CIMM compared to now?

JC: Approximately 20 films and 9 bands.  It was small.  Now, there’s over 100 films, shorts, and music videos.  Over 100 bands as well as some great of panels and presentations.  Lots and lots of entertainment!

4. Why highlight Movies and Music together?

JC: My co-founder, Ilko, is in the film industry and I am a musician.  I played in bands (M’s, Sabers, Cloudbirds) over the years and Ilko is a filmmaker with a big music focus. It’s just a part of who we are.  We collaborated with projects for years before CIMMfest and he came to me with the idea.  The idea is more prevalent in Europe, but we were both surprised that there wasn’t anything like this in the US.  At least not the focus on the interconnection.  So, we did this first because no one was doing it and then the bigger ideas followed – music as the great connector of people type thing.  Those bigger ideas are the ones that continue to drive the mission and spirit of everyone involved with CIMMfest.  The market has changed such that there’s a lot of innovation happening in that shared space, especially live.  3D Video mapping and live scoring to film is exciting to bands and we are a big platform for that stuff.  It’s a way of differentiating the festival and giving some focus programatically.  There are many opportunities and festivals in Chicago, but nothing like CIMMfest.

5.How can young people get involved in the CIMM?

JC: volunteer!  we have student passes and special priced tickets at http://cimmfest.org available as well.

Run All Night (2015) Review

The lessons of “Run All Night” remain quite poignant. A single moment in time can change a person’s life. Our lives can be fulfilled or empty and full of regret, all according to the choices and decisions that we have made. “The Grave Digger”, Jimmy Conlon (Liam Neeson), is all too familiar with dangerous predicaments, but this time his actions have finally caught up with him.  Within 16 hours, the characters in this story experience a range of emotions; ranging from laughter to tears. Our story begins in a flashback sequence, Jimmy Conlon narrating, remembering his regrets. He states that “sins of the father shall be visited by the son. No sin goes unpunished.”  How one lives will determine the ultimate consequences of the future. These universal truths are transcended into the lives of the characters purveying a gritty experience of realism.

Jimmy Conlon (Liam Neeson) and Shawn Maguire (Ed Harris) grew up together on the streets of Brooklyn in New York City. They both were heavily involved in criminal activities for several years and supposedly formed an unbreakable bond. Shawn says “We’ll cross the line together,” which means “We came in together, we’ll go out together.” As Shawn existed as an unscrupulous, conniving Irish Mob Boss, Jimmy acquired the role as his hired hit man.  Jimmy laments about his unforgettable nightmares, which only reflect his prior barbarous killings. He subdues his woes by becoming a drunkard. Over the years, he and his son, Michael (Joel Kinneman of RoboCop  2014), became estranged due to Jimmy’s poor choice of lifestyle. He tries to make amends with Michael before it is too late.

An arrogant and impetuous, Daniel Maguire (Boyd Holbrook) makes a deal with the Albanians for Heroin storage and accepts a substantial amount of money. To his dismay, his father rejects the deal, causing Danny to make hard-fast decisions on his own. Michael happens to be on scene when the Albanians come to retrieve their stash. Danny opts to eradicate all involved, even witnesses. Shawn Maguire convinces his son not to do anything rash, but Danny is stubbornly determined to finish what he started. Danny foolishly tries to kill Michael. Jimmy uses his seasoned, killer-instincts to protect his son. Weary and frustrated, Jimmy calls his long-time friend, Shawn to tell him that he has killed Danny.

As a vengeful father, Shawn, vows to exterminate Jimmy, his son Michael, and anyone who gets in the way. “An Eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth” so to speak. Shawn states “I want you to suffer as I have. You have taken my son, now I will take yours… and then, you can you come back and die.”

Michael tells the police about the murder and is entrapped by them. As events unfold, everything is turned upside down, leaving both Michael and Jimmy Conlon as fugitives from the police, while simultaneously trying to avoid Shawn Maguire’s wrath. They encounter NYPD police as well as Maguire’s henchmen, who Jimmy knows entirely too well. Jimmy knows what he must do to save his son. Whatever it takes to stay alive. This forces them into a game of cat and mouse, leaving no choice but to “Run All Night”. Michael is confused about what he sees with his own eyes and what truths his father is trying to show and tell. All the while, Jimmy promises to make things right asking his son not to repeat his mistakes.

In addition, to the recent developments of mayhem, Shawn hires an assassin named Mr. Price (Common) to tie up any loose strings.  Price is a worthy, formidable and more than willing opponent for Jimmy- the “No holds barred killer”. This hellish eradicator proves to be relentless and will stop at nothing to execute both Michael and Shawn.

Liam Neeson’s character, Jimmy is ashamed and regrets the decisions that he has made, vowing to try to make things right again. Throughout, he trusts that son, Michael remains a trustworthy and honest man.  A man once loyalty to Shawn Maguire, Jimmy is clever and adroit, while interjecting witticisms in the face of danger. Neeson conveys a coolness and unsuspecting confidence, leaving one perplexed about the true nature of the character. At times he is sincere; at others he depicts a cold calculating murderer. Death surrounds him. Conlon teeters on the edge between visceral and deliberate. But his revelations finally come at his finest moments. He makes a genuine attempt to bond with son, Michael and protect the ones he loves, but there is a cost for his murderous life, an ultimate penalty he’s willing to pay.

“Run All Night” delivers an action-packed graphic account of the possibilities and consequences of criminal behavior. Certainly, if I were backed into a corner, found myself in a quandary with the authorities or barricaded (gunfight at the OK corral); Liam Neeson’s character might very-well be at the top of my list for 1^st line of defense. Director Jaume Collet-Serra teams up with Neeson once again, following their collaborations of the psychological thriller “Unknown” and  the mystery action thriller “Non-Stop. Writer Brad Ingslby jumps right in after writing “Out of the Furnace” starring Christian Bale, Casey Affleck, Woody Harrelson, Forest Whitaker, Willem Defoe, Sam Shepard, and Zoe Saldana. Cinematic close-up shots by Martin Rue, add to Jimmy’s character as he transitions back and forth between a stone-cold killer to loving father.  An aerial view of Danny Maguire’s pursuit of Michael Conlon gives the audience a wider perspective of insight and sense of dire urgency. Music by Junkie XL and sound effects enhances the tone; sustaining suspense throughout the film.

New York City was the perfect backdrop for this movie. “Run All Night” gives reverence to “Bullitt” (1968), the granddaddy of car chases by Steve McQueen and the “French Connection” (1971) chase with Gene Hackman.

One thing rings true….You can “Run All Night”, but alas when the morning comes….In the end it all comes down to what one would be willing to do.

Although this is similar to many action films and a bit lengthy; it held my attention and I liked the development of characters. I’d give this film 3 out of 5 stars.

Reviewed at AMC Cicero, March 13, 2015. Running time: 114 MIN.

 

Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, Screenplay by Brad Ingelsby.

Warner Bros. release in association with Ratpac-Dune Entertainment of  Vertigo Entertainment production. Produced by Roy Lee, Brooklyn Weaver, Michael Tadross. Executive producers, Steven Mnuchin, Jaume Collet-Serra, John Powers Middleton.

Actors

Liam Neeson, Ed Harris, Joel Kinnaman, Boyd Holbrook, Bruce McGill, Genesis Rodriguez, Vincent D’Onofrio, Lois Smith, Common, Beau Knapp, Patricia Kalember, Daniel Stewart Sherman, James Martinez, Rasha Bukvic, Tony Naumovski, Lisa Branch, Holt McCallany, Aubrey Omari Joseph, Giulia Cicciari, Carrington Meyer.

 

 

87th Oscar Award Winner Predictions

         

 

OSCAR NIGHT Feb. 22, 2015 

Thank you to all my followers for your patience. Here are my Oscar picks for 2015.

I am casting my Oscar Ballot for the categories that I feel I am able to accurately  assess and critique. Enjoy!

Best Picture	Actor in A Leading Role
Boyhood	Eddie Redmayne-Theory of Everything
Actress in A Leading Role	Supporting Actor in a Leading Role
Julianne Moore-Still Alice	J.K. Simmons- Whiplash
Supporting Actress in A Leading Role	Cinematography
Patricia Arquette-Boyhood	Grand Budapest Hotel
Animated Feature Film	Directing
How to Train Your Dragon 2	Alejandro G. Iñárritu
Costume Design	Makeup and Hairstyling
Grand Budapest Hotel	Foxcatcher
Film Editing	Visual Effects
Boyhood	Interstellar
Production Design	Writing, Original Screenplay
Grand Budapest Hotel	Birdman
Writing, Adapted Screenplay	Music, Original Song
Whiplash	Glory-Selma

Review: The Wedding Ringer (2015)

 

Review: The Wedding Ringer (2015)

A friendless tax attorney, Doug Harris (Josh Gad) hires Kevin Hart (Jimmy Callahan) to assemble a believable “best man package” within 10 days. This package called a “Golden Tux” contains a full-fledged performance of the best man and seven groomsmen, leading all the way up to the wedding day.  Doug has invented his best man “Bic Mitchum” by looking through his medicine cabinet in the bathroom. Jimmy is hesitant to take this challenge because he has never done anything like it, especially in a brief amount of time. Jimmy calls on a few of his crazy cohorts to help him pull off the performance of a lifetime. Meanwhile, he questions why he ever started his company “The Best Man, Inc.” Even though some bonding takes place, Jimmy reminds Doug that the best man package is just a business deal of $50,000. When the deal is over, all ties are severed.

This film is a moderately funny movie with screenwriting efforts to be applauded.  Not a gut buster, but will leave you with some good laughs. “The Wedding Ringer” creates some great questions about marriage and friendship. I have deduced that the messages conveyed were “Be yourself and not settle” and “good friends are hard to find.” Nowadays, people are getting married for all types of reasons, and the divorce rate has sky-rocketed. This movie presents valuable queries about why people want to get married and possible consequences of a poor match. Also, making friends is easy, but maintaining them is even harder. The true bond of a friend is tested when the “rubber hits the road” or when they are “down and out”, what a person is willing to sacrifice about the truth.

Overall, I was intrigued by the idea of Kevin Hart’s character finding creative ways to produce the optimal a best man scenario by intertwining a web of lies. I can’t say that “The Wedding Ringer” is predictable and had resolve with the ending. I recommend seeing this film if you want a few laughs.

 

Selma: Summary and Review

By Okema “Seven” Gunn

“Selma” engenders a unique and empowering glimpse of wonderful storytelling about the events and details surrounding the Voting Act of 1965. This must see movie yields a more illuminating account of the marches on Selma and major players and contributors of history. This biopic film commences with a close-up of Dr. King (David Oyewolo) preparing for his 1964 Nobel Peace Prize Speech in Stockholm, while speaking intimately with wife Coretta (Carmen Ejogo). I can only imagine that writer Paul Webb wished to portray the humility of King by rendering his appearance vulnerable, familiar, and authentic among audiences, since King has often been canonized as an icon of the Civil Rights Movement. Other eye-opening beginning sequences include: the persistent denial of voting rights to activist Annie Lee Cooper (played by Oprah Winfrey), who fills out a form, which was repudiated. Even though she was abreast of political knowledge of her county, the registrar denies Annie’s application claiming that she can’t recite all 67 county judges. The next sequence depicts the 16th Street Baptist Church incident in Birmingham, Alabama, where African American children chatted briefly. Subsequently, 4 little girls are killed after a bomb explodes within the basement church. This particular event has been regarded as a major turning point for the Civil Rights Movement also contributing to the signing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The scenes convey great imagery creating a racially charged, transitional Jim Crow South as a backdrop; however, these particular opening scenes were not developed in real chronological order as the events in history unfolded.


“Selma” serves as a compelling chronicle, which magnifies long-standing tension, racial inequality, and brutality embedded within the fabric of the United States. While federal law decreed all men and women possessed the right to vote, local and state government prevented citizens from voting without any rebuttal or argument. How could a country that claimed that it was fighting for democracy, send black troops to be slaughtered in Vietnam, while back at home these same individuals were not respected as citizens nor were they honored for their valor? In 1964, civil liberties were still being denied, the same as they had been for generations.
Our story develops as Dr. King urges President Johnson (Tom Wilkinson) to uphold the enforcement of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, stating that blacks had still been refused the right to vote by de facto law (informal practices) and also physically violated/killed. He propositions Johnson to help pass legislation protecting blacks as they go to the polls to vote. Johnson acknowledges King’s request, but states that his hands are tied and that he has a lot on his plate like the Vietnam War. Johnson tells King that he has “bigger fish to fry” and asks him to be patient until the can get a handle on other national issues that take more precedent. Dr. King and other activists become irritated by Johnson’s lackadaisical concern to the Voting Rights issue. They begin planning for a strategic counter-response by garnering support from other advocates and civil rights groups.


King converses with SNCC (Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee) exploring numerous non-violent actions and strategies for protests. The collaboration causes a rift among the young activists of SNCC, spearheaded by James Forman (Trai Byers) and John Lewis (Stephan James). Dr. King makes a trip to Selma with activists, Andrew Young (Andre Holland), Ralph Abernathy (Coleman Domingo), James Orange (Omar Dorsey), and Diane Nash (Tessa Thompson). The group meets to talk about plans with (DVCL) Dallas County Voters League, Rev. James Bevel(Common) and other civil rights activists from SCLC (Southern Christian Leadership Conference) including Hosea Williams(Wendell Pierce) and Amelia Boynton (Lorraine Toussaint). While signing into a hotel, one of the white male guests assaults King in the lobby. Johnson hears of the event and proceeds carefully, not wishing to make Dr. King more of a martyr for the movement than he already appears to be. President Johnson conferences with J. Edgar Hoover (Dylan Baker) about how to handle Dr. King. Hoover recommends a more strategic approach to trigger tension in the King household. Coretta receives disturbing phone calls and a tape that suggests that Dr. King has met with other women on his trips. She confronts him about her reservations about his fidelity. Later, he calls Mahalia Jackson (Ledisi Young) to pray and sing him a spiritual hymn to calm his anxiety.


During a gathering at Selma, black citizens assembled peaceably at the county courthouse. Protesters kneel down with their hands behind their heads. Annie assaults Sherriff Clark (Stan Houston) for beating down an elderly protester, Cager Lee (Henry G. Sanders). She is beaten down by police officers and thrown in jail along with other protesters with Dr. King. While in prison Coretta speaks to Amelia and is paid a visit by Malcolm X (Nigel Thatch), who offers her a source of support and comfort. Coretta speaks softly to her husband in jail, but he expresses his disdain for the likes of a militant Malcolm X, reminding Coretta that he called King an updated version of an “Uncle Tom”. After protesters are released, they participate in a night march. George Wallace (Tim Roth) and local officials planned an ambush of the protesters, police beating them and threw tear gas. During this night protest in Marion, Alabama, an unarmed protester, Jimmie Lee Jackson, the grandson of Cager Lee, (Keith Stanfield) dies in a restaurant after a state trooper shoots him in cold blood. Dr. King visits Cager Lee in the morgue offering continual support, furthermore, promising to continue what Jimmie Lee stood for.


King delivers a riveting speech, which addresses the deaths of John F. Kennedy and Malcolm X. He affirms that Jimmie Lee Jackson did not die in vain; that an unrelenting struggle would ensue until the voices of the people would be heard. Dr. King continues to get threats, especially pertaining to his children.
On March 7, 1965, Hosea Williams, Amelia Boynton, John Lewis and a few activists lead a peaceful protest march from Selma to Montgomery (approx. 600 people). Police tell marchers to turn back. They refuse. Tear gas is thrown and protesters are brutally beaten with police batons. The event becomes known throughout history as “Bloody Sunday”. The televised event swells into a National and International controversy. Gov. Wallace and Pres. Johnson become outraged trying to quell media frenzy and embarrassment. After this protest, King makes a call to white clergy sympathizers and other civil rights supporters to aid in the next march.


This second march on Selma, March 9, 1965, was known as “Turn Around Tuesday” lead by King. Protesters arrived at the Edmund Pettus Bridge unharmed. King decided not to continue a full march over the bridge, being cautious about the safety of protesters. He lead the group of 2500 back to the church, but was under scrutiny about the lack of action he took directly after the march. That night white protesters were beaten and one white minister from Boston, James Reeb, was murdered by two racist white men. The media is outraged and once again, the news of injustice has spread quickly.


Finally, In the case of Williams v. Wallace ( March 1965), Judge Frank Minis Johnson, Jr. grants the petition to the people to assemble freely, and orders Gov. George Wallace to permit the Selma to Montgomery march to take place, which was organized by the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), (DCVL) and (SNCC). Black protestors crowd and picket near the gate at the White House. Johnson finally bolsters a strong front against Wallace while in a private meeting inquiring, “Oh. Why won’t you let the Niggers vote?” He realizes how inflexible Gov. Wallace has become. Johnson explained that he didn’t want to be on the wrong side of history. After wearing Wallace down with a barrage of talking points and opinions, known as the “The Treatment”, federal troops are allowed to come in to Alabama providing protestors protection for the third march from Selma to Montgomery. A few days, after the meeting with Gov. Wallace, on March 15, 1965, Pres. Johnson introduced a bill to a session in Congress. This bill turned into the Voting Rights Act of 1965. In the televised proposal of the Bill, Johnson states “The Negro cause must be our cause, too, because it is not just Negroes but really it is all of us who must overcome the crippling legacy of bigotry and injustice. And we shall overcome.” The third and final march takes place from, March 21 to March 25, starting from Selma and ending at the steps of the capitol building in Montgomery, Alabama.


In the final scenes, protestors come from all around to participate in the March from Selma to Montgomery without upheaval from authorities. A montage is shown of scenes from the film along with original pictures and footage from the original marches. Once King arrives at the steps of the capital of Montgomery, he delivers another unforgettable speech. “How long will it take (for justice to prevail)? How long? Not long.” In closing, there are also brief summaries of what happened to specific persons in the film that played a vital role in the movement. Final scenes and credits are overlayed with the Original Song “Glory”. Overall, the film sheds light on a vital time in the history of our country, by serving as a great reference point, and a critical lens for future generations to rely upon. 2015 marks the 50th anniversary of the Voting Act of 1965.
The star-studded cast of Selma includes, but limited to: Oprah Winfrey, Cuba Gooding Jr, David Oyewolo, Common, Niecy Nash, Wendell Pierce, Martin Sheen, Giovanni Ribisi, Tim Roth, Tom Wilkinson, and a host of others. Cinematographer Bradford Young captures the landscape beautifully as the marchers walk over the Edmund Pettus Bridge in all three events, specifically on the second march during “Bloody Sunday.”



Ava has to her directing credits “Kinyarwanda (2011), “The Middle of Nowhere “(2012), and “Scandal” TV Series Episodes (2013), and a few other shorts and documentaries. For Selma, she was the first African American woman director nominated for a Golden Globe and a Critics Choice Award. Ava Duvernay and David Oyewolo team up again for an extremely devoted endeavor for “Selma”. The two met in “The Middle of Nowhere” (2012). David’s credits also include the Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011), Lincoln (2012), The Paperboy (2012), high praise for depicting character Louis Gaines in The Butler (2013), and Interstellar (2014). He was nominated for a Golden Globe, Critics Choice Award, Independent Spirit Award, NAACP Award, and countless others for Best Actor for 2014 for his role in “Selma”. It’s a shame that both DuVernay and Oyewolo were not nominated for 2015 Oscars. Thus far,“Glory” won for Best Original Song for the Golden Globes and the Critics’ Choice Movie Awards. “Selma” is also nominated for Best Picture and Best Original Song at the 87th Academy Awards. “Selma” is produced by Cloud Eight Films, Harpo Films, Plan B Entertainment and distributed by Paramount Pictures.

2015 List of Oscar Nominations

Seven Says……I’m so excited that they announced the Oscar Nominations! Looking forward to the “Road to the Oscars”. There are quite a few films to look at for critique and analysis. Good Luck to all of our nominees and congratulations to the great productions that did not make the list. YOU are winners too!

HERE is the link to the 2015 Oscar Nominees! (by Award Show News)

http://nominations2015.com/oscar-nominations-2015/

Transformers: Age of Extinction (2014)

Transformers: Age of Extinction (2014)
viewed at 400 Theaters in Rogers Park on Sheridan

Director Michael Bay and producer Steven Spielberg return with a 4th installment of the science fiction action film, Transformers: Age of Extinction, based on the 1980’s cartoon. “Transformers…more than meets the eye.” This quote started it all. With each film, Hasbro engages audiences in bold 3 dimensional approaches making these blockbuster films, multimillion dollar successes at the box office.
In the 3rd installment “Darkside of the Moon”, Shia LeBouf, and Tyrese Gibson came back to Chicago and solidified themselves as pivotal characters. We connected with their characters and followed them through the series. Screenwriter Ehren Kruger decided to take a new perspective. This time around Paramonut Pictures added sexy eye candy veteran Mark Wahlberg and Academy Award nominated Stanley Tucci into the mix. This is far from the “Lovely Bones” dramatic thriller that we saw from them a few years ago.
Now, things are all-together different. Five years later, after the war with the Decepticons, Autobots are hunted down and killed by the CIA with the help of leader Harold Attinger (Kelsey Grammer). Optimus Prime summons the last surviving Autobots. They must once again stop the destruction of their race and our save our world. Bumblebee, Ratchet, Leadfoot, and Brains vow to help Optimus in his quest, regardless of the dishonorable treatment by the humans. Optimus calls for the original Transformers called Dinobots to assist him in his pursuit. A handful of rebel humans with the lead of Cade Yeager (Mark Wahlberg) aid the effort in keeping the Autobots from being destroyed and assist with finding the seed (a nuclear cyber-bomb).
A corporation called KCI decides to make Autobots out of a new element called transformium. While using Megatron’s brain, this corporation creates Galvatron and Stinger. While trying to control these newly created Decpticons, KCI Corporation soon discovers that they cannot control Galvatron, who is Magatron reincarnate. Havoc strikes as an attempt to capture Optimus Prime unfolds killing several innocent civilians and destroying cities along the way.
Transformers demonstrates stunning twisting, side-winding graphics and explosive, non-stop action-packed battle sequences that leaves the audience on the edge of their seats. Although, it becomes a bit overwhelming during the second hour; the plot and dialogue becoming dry, predictable, and cliche at times. By the end, I was looking at my cell phone thinking…. the movie should be over by now. While not one of best Transformer films I ‘ve seen and also lacking in plot development there is one expectation that is met by the end of the film. Michael Bay promises to entertain, putting forth a best effort to stimulate, creating an awakening of the both the auditory and visual senses.
For the past few years, Chicago has become a backdrop for these Transformer films bringing revenue, jobs, and cinematic attention to this growing Mecca, we call home. I was honored and fortunate to accompany, a visiting foreign friend to see the film, in which I gladly pointed out the historical landmark relevancies to the movie. The place where I viewed the film was in a nearby, quaint, renovated Rogers Park movie theater called The 400 Theaters. Local moviegoers from the neighborhood include but are not limited to; students and employees of Loyola University.

Overall, I would give this film 2 and half stars.

 

Lawrence Lee Wallace: 5 C’s of Entertainment

By Okema “Seven” Gunn

Cool. Clever. Creative. Collaborative. Class Act.     

In the 1990’s, Lawrence began modeling and acting. He decided to write because many of the ideas he had imagined, had not been portrayed in movies or television. Acting and writing were vehicles to create and an outlet for a teenager with a passion for the arts. Monologues and concepts grew into skits, plays, and then films. Hirsch High School had a huge impact on his beginnings. It was not a school for the arts, but it did have a drama program, which struggled to stay afloat. He enjoyed every minute of the program and soaked up everything he could learn like a little sponge. There, he got his first brush with fame by meeting Dick Gregory. At the time, Lawrence was writing/developing one act plays. Mr. Gregory read it and gave feedback saying, “Don’t Give Up.” This was music to his ears and just the inspiration that he needed.

First movies ever seen. George Lucas’s Star Wars. “A larger than life space epic, which became a history-making spectacular event that no one had ever seen or imagined could be set to screen. On a grand scale of proportions…dramatic and yet funny at the same time. A Sci-fi/ epic drama. The Wiz- Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Nipsey Russell, Lena Horne and a host of other memorable black cast members. This was an amazing perspective on a classic story of a girl in a fantastical land. Amazing, beautiful, and creative,” adds Wallace enthusiastically.

Favorite Directors-Spike Lee, Martin Scorsese, Antoine Fuqua, F. Gary Gray, Steven Spielberg, John Singleton, Darren Aronofsky, James Cameron, and a list of others. Lawrence has been directing for 10 to 15 years and involved in directing film for 5 to 6 years. He directed two plays by Shywanee Manson called, ”Apology from One Sista to Another,” and ”My Sista I’m Sorry.” He enjoys theater for its sense of live action for the audience, but movies and television are his passion.

His first film involvement as an actor was in 1996, “Reasons” with Bernie Mac. Monty Ross(cousin to Spike Lee) directed this film (before Bernie Mac was famous). Lawrence would love to work with talent like Denzel Washington, Tom Cruise, Johnny Depp, and Halle Berry in the Sci-fi thriller genre. Wallace likes Sci-fi and horror the most, but his roots are in comedy and sci-fi. This is where it all began for him, doing skits and one act plays. “I love to write absurd, off-the-wall scenarios with a comedic flavor.” Wallace started winning awards for his 1990’s Urban Scenze on Stage, which turned into DVD Series Vol.1 Vol.2, with the help of Victory Multimedia-located in California (available on Borders and Netflix. 2004, 2007) Two of his most recent projects are starting to culminate a buzz: Night Thrasher:Rave and Chiraq.

Night Thrasher: Rave- “For Marvel, this is an initiative that were trying to promote; rolling out ethnic characters and proving them viable and successful as a series. We’re pushing it on youtube and want increased awareness of it. Eric Lane makes public appearances as “Night Thrasher,” a crime-fighting, ebony superhero. We want to exhibit “Night Thrasher” as a positive aspect of the community,” says Lawrence.

Chiraq the Series- One of his next major projects, written by Michael Dushon and Bill Pierce. “This is something that people will not expect. It’s about family, community, politics, and violence in society. In an urban environment there are also other dynamics that come in to play, like poverty, the underserved, the uneducated. This series will shed light on why the name “Chiraq” came about and why we need to be honest about what’s going on. There needs to be an accountability and responsibility by our aldermen, representatives, and our mayor. People will be attracted to Chiraq because they want to know the “real issues” about what’s going on in our community. Chiraq will invite audiences become “up close and personal” to what’s going on.

Finally, I would have to say overall I was thoroughly impressed by what this writer/director had to say in the interview. I was caught off-guard by his eloquent speaking and cool swagger. Lawrence has proven to be what I call the 5 C’s of entertainment. Cool. Clever. Creative. Collaborative. And Class Act.

Lawrence Lee Wallace Awards:
2004- American Black Film Festival (ABFF)-“Urban Scenze”
2009-Black Harvest Film Festival- “If you Love Me”
2010-Metropolitan Board Empowerment Award
2010-ShriekFest-Horror Film Festival- “Dark Hallways”
2011-Las Vegas International Film Festival Official Selection- Agin Muhammad’s “Letters from Prison”
2011-Park Forest Entertaining with Excellence Award
2012-Atlanta Film Festival-Official Selection-Agin Muhammad’s “A Man’s Gotta Do”
Artist Grant for the City of Chicago for “Web Series: Villains,” on youtube
2014-Wizard World: Comic-Con- Official Selection “Night Thrasher: Rave

Credits:
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm3007540/

Night Thrasher Goes to Comic Con (2014)

Night Thrasher: Rave Goes to Wizard World: Comic Con (2014)
By Okema“Seven”Gunn

THE STORY.
Who is Night Thrasher? He first appeared as a black Marvel comic book character in Thor Episode #411 in December of 1989 (created by Tom DeFalco and Ron Frenz). Night Thrasher (Dwayne Taylor) has no superhuman powers, but he’s got a plethora of sophisticated tech gadgets and military devices. Also, his training in martial arts is second to none. His parents were killed during his formative years, at the hand of an unknown villain. Dwayne witnessed the murders as a child and his recollection of the event was quite foggy. Subsequently, he created the Taylor Foundation and vowed to take on the streets of New York City; punishing all those engaging in criminal activity. During this process, he became Night Thrasher. While acting as a solo vigilante, Night Thrasher ascertained that there were others out there just like him. He united with a brother and sister team, who called themselves Silhouette and Midnight’s Fire. Their mission was to eliminate gang activity and clean up the streets, too. Night Thrasher required additional assistance, so he recruited more young soldiers, establishing his own team called “The New Warriors.” With the aid of Night Thrasher and the New Warriors, Thor was able to subjugate Juggernaut in battle. This is one of the many stories that may be unknown to many Marvel fans. Night Thrasher’s not a new character, he just hasn’t gotten the recognition he deserves as a champion of the people.

THE DIRECTOR/WRITER.
Lawrence Lee Wallace, the director of NightThrasher: Rave, fan film, elaborated in detail about his interest in making his short-film a reality. Lawrence spearheaded the project, taking on all costs accrued from pre to post production. He saved up his money for a year, appropriating from his paycheck every month to cover the costs of compensation to crew, cast, and distribution fees. Wallace is a big fan of sci-fi and comic books. He knew one day that studios would start making superhero movies; he just thought there would be more black characters featured in main roles; and not just as background or sidekicks. Somehow, he thought…… there must be other black superheroes out there, other than the ever popular “Blade” and “Nick Fury” characters. Night Thrasher qualifies as a bona fide superhero! “He’s strong, dynamic, mentally tough, and possesses great integrity….all the ingredients of real superhero,” declares Wallace emphatically. “Night Thrasher had a limited run…appearing as a guest character of Spiderman, Ironman, Thor, and the X-Men. Why hasn’t Hollywood taken notice?,” asks Wallace.

“We’re hoping the audience sees the story as we see it. Making Night Thrasher was just as challenging as any other film. We generated a great response to casting, but some obstacles were: finding talent to make the shots and coming to the South Side of Chicago (to film).” Wallace wanted to film in the community to make it authentic. “People were concerned to come to the South Side because of what they heard. Others even dropped out at the last minute. Never-the-less the project forged ahead, developing a diverse cast of actors and actresses. Eric Lane plays the ‘Night Thrasher” and team chosen did a fantastic job coming together.”

THE HYPE

Okay. I love Marvel comics, but I’m not a connoisseur like many. But, I do have my big brother to thank for my interest in superheroes. I believe Night Thrasher can be a great money maker, if you just put a little faith in him. So here’s the real issue. What’s really going on? Why hasn’t Hollywood done a Night Thrasher movie? He’s got his own team of soldiers and he’s fighting against evil. How cool is that? Did I miss something? C’mon Hollywood and Marvel….Wake up! Hey producers and influencers…if you’re out there, let’s make it happen! Create a buzzzzz. You can do it! I want to see Night Thrasher’s story come to life. Like Lawrence Lee Wallace says….”Feature film? or….Web Series?”
(I just heard that Black Panther and Captain Marvel could be coming to the silver screen……)

Night Thrasher is the Official selection at Wizard World: Chicago Comic Con playing from Aug 21st –Aug 24th. Special event takes place 4-5 pm on Aug 22nd film/Q&A with Lawrence Lee Wallace and Eric Lane. Places like this is where the magic happens. People take notice and deals are made. So I’m putting it out there. The legendary Stan Lee will be attending the Chicago Comic Con. On behalf of all the fans of Night Thrasher….. I therefore declare, Okema “Seven” Gunn, challenges, Stan Lee and Marvel Comics to put Night Thrasher to the big screen. HOW WILL THOU RESPOND? CHALLENGE! Grrrr!

Watch on YouTube, like Facebook.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IRf9UAQdxPE
https://www.facebook.com/NightThrasherRave

Chicago Comic Con, Illinois Donald E. Stephens (Rosemont) Convention Center, Wizard World…www.wizardworld.com

 — with Seven Okema Gunn andLawrence Lee Wallace.

X MEN: Days of Future Past (2014) Review

X Men: Days of Future Past. This story was created with a collaboration of Jane Goldman, Simon Kinberg, and Matthew Vaughn, with Kinberg writing the screenplay. Directing by Bryan Singer. This is an adaptation from the (Alternate Universe) or Marvel Mulitverse comic book series of Stan Lee by the same name. The movie details are slightly altered from the original conception. The story of the X Men has evolved, developing many subplots and character analysis along the way. Now, rules of space and time no longer apply. We are in a world where changing futures and pasts are possible. This leaves history wide open…….ripe and for the taking.

A future dystopia has occurred where mutants are being hunted. Wolverine, Storm, Kitty Pryde, Professor X, Magneto, Iceman, Bishop, Colossus, Sunspot, Warpath and Blink  are all that exist as the last of a dying breed of mutants. Wolverine is assigned to a mission that he may never recover from. He is the only one who is able to heal from the possible bodily damage and trauma that could be incurred by his journey to the past. Kitty Pryde teleports his mind to the past and must remain steadfast as his protector.

While Wolverine’s conscious is teleported back into 1973, the mutants still rage on against the killing machines called Sentinels, in the future. A mad scientist from the 1970’s, Bolivar Trask, has created and programmed adaptable, indestructible mutant-killers to eliminate any traces that the X Men ever existed. Wolverine must convince a young Professor X and a belligerent Magneto to stop the termination of this particular scientist. Beast (Hank McCoy) and Quicksilver (Peter Maximoff) help Wolverine and Professor X (Charles Xavier) break Magneto (Erik Lehnsherr) out of the Pentagon, who is also in solitary for supposedly killing JFK.

The possible assassination of Trask sets into motion an apocalyptic war with mutants fighting for their very lives in a bleak and gloomy future. Wolverine’s past and future are fused together as he recreates history. His mind is joggled eventually as he moves in and out of consciousness remembering moments of traumatic adamantium evolution with Colonel Stryker.

There must be a way to stop the elimination of the X Men! Things don’t go as well as planned and somehow Magneto and Mystique have their own agenda…. their own way about how things should turn out. President Nixon is tired of fighting (The Vietnam War), but is reluctant to get involved in any impending wars, until there is a fight among the mutants that the public witnesses at the Paris Peace Accords of 1973. Because of this upheaval, Nixon is convinced to sign off on the approval of the Sentinel program. Mystique must decide once and for all who she is and what she is fighting for. Her DNA holds the key to what could send both the Days of Future and Past crashing down forever.

Action. Suspense. Plot. Watcher’s Beware! You should have some prior knowledge of X Men history or bring a friend along to explain a few details. Overall, I thought the film was very entertaining, cinematic, and I cared about the characters enough to get involved. P.S. Don’t forget the ending after the credits. The next X Men (Apocalypse) comes out in May 2016! Until then….. I‘ll be waiting…. Yes!

Actors and Actresses: Hugh Jackman, Halle Berry, Jennifer Lawrence, Ellen Page, Nicholas Hoult, Michael Fassbender, James McAvoy, Patrick Stewart, Kelsey Grammar, Anna Paquin