Roberta Grossman Interview

Exclusive Interview with Roberta Grossman Dir: "Blessed is the Match"
by: Luis Pedron of Fanclubx.com

www.blessedisthematch.com




Luis Pedron: Hannah Senesh has been likened to a "modern day Joan of Arc." How does this relate to the women then and women who are allowed to serve in the military now?

Roberta Grossman: I think the reference to Joan of Arc is because both Hannah and Joan of Arc were very young women who were touched with a passion for a cause and the belief that they themselves were called to serve the cause. I filmed one day at an Israeli parachutist base where young women were being trained. It was amazing to see so many young women in uniform, practicing packing parachutes, etc. Hannah Senesh is still held up as a model of devotion and bravery to these young women in the Israeli military today. But I also interviewed a high up male officer in the Israeli Defense Force – he told me that he remains inspired by Hannah's sacrifice. No one wants to fight, not then, not now. No young person wants to die. Certainly not Hannah. But the times demanded a response and she responded.

Luis Pedron: How small or massive was the picture/diary archive of Hannah Senesh and how helpful were these materials to your filming this documentary?

Roberta Grossman: I had read Hannah's diary in junior high and had been fascinated by her all my life. I had seen the same 10 pictures of Hannah over and over again. When I was given permission to make Blessed Is the Match by the Senesh family, they took me to a small room in what had been Catherine Senesh's apartment and there were floor to ceiling books, documents, letters and shoe boxes. In the shoe boxes were 1300 photographs of Hannah and her family, more than half of them taken by Hannah herself. So I discovered that she had recorded her life in pictures as well as in words. This was amazing. And, to make it even better, she was an excellent photographer. It really doesn't get much better than that for a documentary filmmaker!

Luis Pedron: In the background are the relationships that Hannah had with her Mother and her involvement in the Kibbutz Movement of her time. Please paint this picture for us without giving away too much of the storyline.

Roberta Grossman: Hannah's involvement with the kibbutz movement was an outgrowth of her passionate idealism. As conditions for Jews in Europe worsened in the 1930's Hannah became convinced that the only solution for the Jewish people was to have a safe-haven in Palestine. She did not simply believe in this idea, but wanted to devote her life to it. Much to her mother's chagrin, Hannah decided to emigrate to Palestine. Even worse, from Catherine's point of view, was that Hannah proclaimed there were already "far too many intellectuals in Palestine. The great need is for workers to help build the land." So Hannah studied at a girl's agricultural school in Palestine and then joined a young kibbutz on the beach near Caesarea. When Hannah arrived at the kibbutz, there was nothing there except sand a few tents. This was a great test to her idealism! Hannah enjoyed teasing her mother in letters about mucking out cow sheds, etc. When she knew her mother wished she had decided, at least, to go to the university in Jerusalem.
About Hannah's relationship about her mother, let me just add this – the film is not about a heroine, or about the Holocaust, Blessed Is the Match is a mother-daughter love story set against the backdrop of the Holocaust.

Luis Pedron: What did you learn from creating this poetic and historical film?

Roberta Grossman: Humility.

Luis Pedron: How did you get to interview Israeli President Shimon Peres for this film?

Roberta Grossman: One of my advisors in Israel, Professor Tamar Ketko, asked him and he said yes.

Luis Pedron: What are your hopes and dreams for the Jewish youth of the future and what should they learn from this film?


Roberta Grossman: My hopes and dreams for all youth is for peace. I do hope that my film will introduce new generations of Jewish youth to Hannah's story. I think Hannah embodies the watchwords of Jewish World Watch, a Los Angeles-based organization that fights against modern day genocides. Their motto is "don't stand idly by."

Luis Pedron: What are your advice to future filmmakers in how to be a true storyteller?

Roberta Grossman: Tell stories that you are passionate about – about things that make you mad – that way you will have the juice to get over all the hurdles and years it takes to make a film.

Luis Pedron: Thank you so much for granting me this interview. Congratulations for your theatrical release!

www.blessedisthematch.com

ROBERTA GROSSMAN, DIRECTOR/PRODUCER
An award-winning filmmaker with a passion for history and social justice, Roberta Grossman has written and produced more than forty hours of documentary television. She was the series producer and co-writer of 500 Nations, the eight-hour CBS mini-series on Native Americans hosted by Kevin Costner. Grossman's feature documentary, Homeland: Four Portraits of Native Action, premiered in February 2005, and has screened and won awards at more than forty festivals worldwide. Other writing and producing credits include In the Footsteps of Jesus, a four-hour special for the History Channel; Hollywood and Power: Women on Top, a special for AMC; The Rich in America: 150 Years of Town and Country Magazine for A&E, The History of Christianity: the First Thousand Years, a four-hour special on A&E, Medal of Honor, a six-part television series produced for U.S. News and World Report, and Heroines of the Hebrew Bible and Judas for the A&E series Mysteries of the Bible.

Hollywood Halo-Halo-Ween Dance Party

LFP International Prod Inc, Fanclubx.com & Planet Philippines NY/NJ presents

Hollywood Halo-Halo-ween Dance Party



Friday, October 31, 2008 6PM - 1AM
Sheraton LaGuardia East Hotel (Flushing Queens NY)
135-20 39th Ave Flushing NY
(A block away from 7 Train Main St Station & Hotel Valet Parking available $7)), Give Aways and Dance Party

Tickets $25 advance email: LuisPedron@gmail.com / $30 Door

Costume Contest ($250 Grand Prize), Live Bands, Fashion Show (Grace Edwards Designs) lots of give aways and Dance Party
DJ: I M D DJ littlejohn
LIVE BANDS: JBR Band, ASHES and KAYUMANGGI BAND
Celebrity Host: Archie D

Community Partners:
Quezon Province Association / Kalusugan Coalition / Filipino American Senior Citizens Association of Queens NYC (FASCAQ NYC) /
AFTA

Win $250 in cash for the BEST Halloween Costume:
Other prizes, Karaoke Machines courtesy of TOPNOTCH
IPOD from MOPAMedia.com
and Soap Give aways from Victoria's Beauty Magic
decor courtesy of Halloween Adventure ( 311) W 43 St NYC) www.NewYorkCostumes.com (Get your Halloween Costumes at
Halloween Adventure say that Luis Pedron of Planet Philippines sent you and ask for a 10% discount).

Contact: LuisPedron@gmail.com

Filipino Wave: Part I

ABC's "Dancing with the Stars" winners Jaryd Farcon and Cara Abaya-Campos

Last July 12, 2008, Jersey City was the epicenter of a big tidal wave (a conglomeration) of Filipino Artistry at its best! MTV's America's Best Dance Crew Champion JabbaWockeez (three are Filipino) , Pussycat Dolls talent search runner-up Melissa Reyes, and ABC's "Dancing with the Stars" winners Jaryd Farcon and Cara Abaya-Campos top billed the Fundraising event which benefitted the Children's Chance, Inc., a non-profit organization "It was an amazing show," Cathy and Satrick Uy of SCAT Productions (producers of the show) said, "many travelled miles and miles to witness this first ever show here in the East Coast with the Jabbawockeez. We are happy that this fundraiser event was successful," Rolando Abaquin (Producer) added.

In years past the Latin Wave was evident with the success of Latin Superstars Ricky Martin and J LO, now the evidence of this Filipino Wave have been the recent triumphant win of Filipino Americans in US National contests left and right. Firstly, the super popular, JabbaWockeeZ at the MTV 's "America's Best Dance Crew" who won by a landslide 38 million votes. (no secret 3 of the members are Pinoys so no need to elaborate) secondly, Melissa Reyes, runner of the Pussycal Dolls TV contest bested everyone with her feline prowess and thirdly, the super tykes, Jaryd & Cara of the recently concluded ABC's "Dancing with Stars". They danced their little feet to America's hearts with their grace and precise choreography at the 10 and below age category.

The event also featured talented local dance groups- supergroups: Culture Shock D.C., Flo, Ciello (R&B singer), Part Time Models, Project D, FR3SH & FR3SH Juniors, Rhythmology, Soul'D, Sic and Major Definition. "The performers mostly Filipinos were overwhelmed at how the audience were so supportive. The crowd were cheering for each and every group as the climax was building, awaiting the Jabbawockeez performance. They were cheering wildly for singers Melissa Reyes and Ciello, and gave Jaryd and Cara a standing ovation. When time came for the Jabbawockeez, the crowd kept to their feet loudly chanting Jabbawockeez,Jabbawockeez. In addition, we are thankful to the performers, staff and the audience...." Cathy and Satrick Uy excitedly reporting in unison. Marisse Panlilio - production manager says, "I have all but praises for the 10 dance groups that gave their heart and soul, rehearsing everyday, sometimes 4-5 hours to hone their skills to be fitting front act to the JABBAWOCKEEZ. Two groups, Culture Shock and Major Definition drove all the way from DC and Maryland. They were prompt to the appointed call time. Kudos to all. We were anticipating a good turnout but not wildly near the huge crowd that showed up. I was at the venue by 8:55am and crowds of people were already lined up." The intense excitement in the Yanitelli Center all the more fueled the heat inside the venue. but the love inside the center, for Dorita's Children's Chance organization, her kids, and of course the JABBAWOCKEEZ seemed to downplay the uncomfortable heat. It was indeed an afternoon to remember."

The event was held at St. Peter's College, Yanitelli Center at 2641 Kennedy Blvd., Jersey City, N.J. from 4PM - 7PM. Mayor Jeremaiah Healy's representative Lary Nunez welcomed the performers and audience to the beautiful Jersey City. The youthful and energetic hosts Cyrille Robes, (of S.i.G.H. band), Fil-Am comedian Air Tabigue and (the DJ for the performances was) DJ Nano added color and fun to the event. SCAT Productions (Satrick Uy, Cathy Uy and Rolando Abaquin) the producers of the show chose to benefit the Children's Chance, Inc., a foundation led by Dorita Urrata. This non profit has brought to the U.S. the formerly conjoined Filipino twins Carl and Clarence Aguirre, the successful surgery was in the World News done at Montefiore's Children's Medical Center. Children's Chance has recently helped out Jingle Luis, the 15-year-old girl who had a successful surgery to straighten her clubbed feet and CherryMae Espdedilla, the 13-year-old girl who will have numerous surgeries done to repair her nose. The two teenage girls including Dorita Urrata of Children's Chance was also on stage to thank the crowd.

The producers would like to thank the following the following :
David Kay - Buddha Bar NYC, Liza -Johnny's Pizza, Sheila & Neslie Au Bon Pain, Leslie Bowes- U.S Asian Wire, Culture Shock D.C., Flo, Part Time Models, Project D, FR3SH & FR3SH Juniors, Rhythmology, Soul'D, Sic, Major Definition, Ciello, Travis Samson, Lexine Deluca, Amy/Jimbo Tuazon, Atty. John Park, DJ Nano -Madison, C Fernandez, Vince/Eleanor Pardo, Ana/ Joe - Kabayan Oriental Store, Linda Mayo and Larry Nunez from Jersey City Mayor Jerramiah Healy's office.

July 12, 2008, was the date that all these future Filipino American superstars came to one venue and showed their World Class Talent. If you were there, you would have seen what the " Filipino Wave " was all about. Filipino Americans artists are ready to rule the entertainment world!
website: scatproductionsnyc.com or myspace.com/scatproductionsnyc
E-mail contact: LuisPedron@gmail.com
events@scatproductionsnyc.com



http://asiancemagazine.com/news/2008/07/13/jabbawockeez_performs_for_childrens_chance_foundation
http://asiancemagazine.com/news/2008/08/22/jabbawockeez_favor_supercr3w

Rafael Rosell

Exclusive Interview by: Luis Pedron of Fanclubx.com

Luis Pedron: How did you go about starting with your acting and modelling career in the Philippines?

Rafael Rosell: Like most balikbayans, I came here (Philippines) for a vacation. Prior to the vacation I searched the internet for auditions, and saw that ABS-CBN was casting for a new batch of artists. I sent them pics and a demo reel and they invited me for an audition.

So when we arrived Manila, we went to ABS-CBN after a few days of just chilling in the city. I passed it and they gave me a 6 months contract for workshops. I signed it, and things started rolling.

Luis Pedron: I heard you had to study Filipino (Tagalog) and it is now paying off with starring roles in Telenovelas and Movies? How was that a challenge in learning another language in your early twenties? BTW, how many languages do you speak?

Rafael Rosell: During the 6 months training they gave Tagalog grammar classes, but it wasn't until I started reading the tabloids out loud to my friends that I learned how to pronounce the words properly. I had conversations with taxi drivers and people who were around me just to learn the conversational skills. I got myself into a Tagalog play for Tanghalang Ateneo to further enhance the language learning, and also to put pressure on myself. On stage, you can't make mistakes, so I really studied the script and "imitated" and learned how Pinoys express themselves on and off stage, and adapted mannerisms and intonations of the voice according to what the regular Pinoy wants to communicate.

It wasn't easy, but growing up I've always been fond of the different languages, but it was really Tagalog that I had my mind set on truly mastering, after all, one of my purposes of coming back here was to study my parents' roots. So by doing this, I really wanted to become "Pinoy" like them.

Learning a new language at that age was more difficult than when you're a kid. It takes more effort and understanding. As a kid you don't have to think about grammar or sentence structure, it just comes along naturally over the years.

There was a time when I spoke four, almost 5 languages (Norwegian, English, German, Tagalog and a little Spanish) but German faded because I never got to use it in a real conversation and Spanish was just a language I managed to speak under the influence of alcohol. Hehe! I can still understand a little bit of Spanish and German, but it's minimal. Norwegian, English and Tagalog are the languages I fluently speak now.

Luis Pedron: How does it feel to be biracial in the Philippines? Are there advantages and disadvantages to this?

Rafael Rosell: Well, I'm not biracial. I'm pure blooded pinoy, but people say I look foreign. Advantages of this is that people are immediately nice to you. They cater to you and welcome you with open arms no matter where you are.

Disadvantages on the other hand, is that everyone immediately assume that you're rich and a playboy. There are more advantages and disadvantages though depending on what aspect you want to elaborate on.

Luis Pedron: Pls tell us what makes you keep on keeping on?

Rafael Rosell: Our country is slowly going down. And when we're about to rise, some nut has to bomb a mall. It's really sad… But what keeps me going is mostly to help the viewers escape their reality and join something that we have created for them. Take them for a ride away from our country's pain and poverty. Aside from that I also believe that there are roles that can teach people something or make them realize or give them an epiphany. Those are the roles I try to choose. Roles that have meaning. Characters that can teach the viewers something useful.

I also do what I do because I'm out to prove to my brother's that you can get anywhere and anything as long as you're ready to bust your ass for it and work hard.

Luis Pedron: Which do you enjoy more and why - Modelling or Acting and why?

Rafael Rosell: Financially, I enjoy (commercial) modeling more. Hehe, but for the mind and spirit, it's acting. I treat it as a form of release. Releasing trapped emotions and being someone else in a different time and place. For me, it's an escape from the norm and it gives me the opportunity to do things I wouldn't normally do as my regular self.

Luis Pedron: How different is it acting on TV as opposed to acting in the Movies?

Rafael Rosell: For me, acting for soaps on TV influences the mind more, because you sustain that character for so long that you end up adapting some of your character's traits and mannerisms. Where as for movies, you keep it for the time you shoot the movie and then release it after the month long shooting. Soaps on the other hand takes several months…

Indie films is a whole different world to itself. You are able to be more free, and typecasting is minimal. Since it's not commercial you have more artistic freedom and the characters you're asked to portray varies from the regular joe to way offbeat roles (which are more fun.)

Luis Pedron: Who is your favorite actress / actor in the Philippines and in the US and why?

Rafael Rosell: In the Philippines it has to be Mark Gil and Chery Gil. They come through with their characters with such great intensity… on stage it's Paolo Fabregas. He just OWNS the stage!

In the States, it has to be Johnny Depp. The roles he has portrayed are so off beat it's amazing. He doesn't go for the stereotypical characters and the way he brings forward the personality of his characters is amazing! Other actors I admire are Kevin Spacey, Ed Norton, Al Pacino, and of course Marlon Brando.

Actresses are Jessica Alba and Kristin Kreuk. They both seem to be so sweet but deep inside they seem to have this naughty side to them, and they both can kick ass.



Luis Pedron: How do you keep fit? What suggestions do you have to people like me in trying to look trim?

Rafael Rosell: I don't believe there's a basic formula that works for everyone, when it comes to working out. I just believe in working hard in the activities that you enjoy doing, and the body will follow the required fitness level for that particular activity depending on your body type. Did you get that? Hehe, basically, my philosophy in fitness is: "Appearance is the consequence of fitness." Thus; the harder you work, the harder you get.

Personally, when I have free time, I train with my capoeira group or go for a swim.

One advice I can give to other people is to just stay active. Join sports, join a gym, or jog for thirty minutes to an hour every other day. If you want to lose weight, it's either you diet or you compensate for the amount you eat by doing cardio ( i.e running, swimming, cycling or skipping) Personally I chose to compensate. I hate dieting and don't believe in restricting yourself from great food. Eating makes me happy, and life is too short to let great food pass by.

Luis Pedron: Wow, thank you I will definitely compensate more... I have a hard time dieting... but now I should know my limitations.....How do you prepare for a role? Do you have any methods that you do? Research etc....?

Rafael Rosell: I research. Study my friends or people I know that have that trait in them that's required for my character's personality. Then I throw myself in the character's situation, mix up the different mannerisms and traits I gained from my study together with my personal issues.

(It's a mixture of "method" (by Stanislavski) and "being" (by Eric Morris)

After the research, I analyze the script. Read through it once, then analyze it by sequence. Then I read through it again. I try different attacks and push through with the one that feels right. If the director wants a different attack, at least I'll be prepared.

There are different ways of doing it depending on the character and how the director wants your character to come through.

Luis Pedron: Do you have any charitable institutions that you help out and support and why?

Rafael Rosell: I always believe in helping out people in need. But I don't believe in doing charity work for publicity. So I have my own way of helping out the children in the street without the media or other people knowing about it. Usually it's by giving out clothes or money anonymously.

Luis Pedron: If you were to produce, direct and act in your own ideal movie what would be the story line? Who will be your ideal cast? What genre would it be and why?

Rafael Rosell: Wow, I've thought about directing before, but never truly pursued it.

If ever it was to be here in the Philippines it would be about how dirty the industry can get, or how the corruption ruins our politicians, thus the country's poverty and suffering.

The story line would revolve on secrets within our industry that would make people realize that showbiz is not pure glitz and glamour. The political story line, the plot would contain truth on how the politicians run the country. The bottom line would be to make people realize that politicians need much more education than just acting for a camera. Get the proper people to run the country. People with education, not people with popularity.

I could go on, but that would already be a story line and a script, and I might get shot or someone might steal my idea. Hehe!

Luis Pedron: I definitely would like to prod you to write and direct. Go for it! By the way congrats on your URIAN win for "Rome and Juliet! " How does it feel to be an award winning actor? Who did you dedicate your award to? (Rafael Rosell is a recent URIAN Awardee)

Rafael Rosell: It feels great! I'm really honored and relieved that people finally saw my hard work in this industry. Of course, the award was dedicated to my family (first and foremost) for always being there for me and believing in me. My friends and fans that were with me since the beginning. And last but not the least, my special someone who pushed me beyond my doubts and fear and supported me throughout the project.

Luis Pedron: Uuuuy!!!! Sino yun special someone? ( Teasing: who is the special someone? LOL! ) Do you have advice to the youth out there who plan to pursue their dreams in acting, modelling and directing?

Rafael Rosell: "Always believe in yourself and don't let anybody bring you down."

Luis Pedron: I will definitely write a part for you in my future film project - will you act in my film?

Rafael Rosell: I definitely would. I've seen how you write, and from impression I know you'd write a great plot. Who knows, our path might cross soon in the near future.

Thanx man, more power to you! Saw your red carpet preimier of Spidey 3 on the net. Awesome bro! Keep up the good job!

Luis Pedron: Thank you for granting me this interview. More power and hope to work with you soon!


Rafael Rosell BIO:

Rafael Rosell's full name is Rafael Quimpo Rosell IV. He was born and raised in a place called Stavanger, Norway. His parents are both from the Philippines. Both have Spanish blood in them, but aside from that, he is pure blooded Filipino.

Born on the 10th of November, 1982,he lives under the traits of a Scorpio. When not working, he spends most of his time catching up with friends, family and loved ones. Usually it's spent by watching a movie, food tripping or just hanging out.

Rafael says he is pretty much a free spirit. "I need my time to do whatever I feel like without people ordering me around. Without the time for myself, things can get really messy. For me, showbiz is a job, there's so much more to me than what the media allows me project. "

Roxanne Messina Captor, writer/director, "A Couple of White Chicks at the Hairdresser"

Exclusive Interview by: Luis Pedron of Fanclubx.com

Luis: Your film is about loyalty, friendship and squabbling over men and possessions... please expound on these topics?

Roxanne: I have always been interested in the difference between what is on the outside and what is real on the inside. That people are not so different on the inside and what you see is not always what you get. This film is about how two very different women and a gay republican man can support each other through life's trials and tribulations.

Luis: Women are portrayed here at their most vulnerable. Is there something about being in a hair salon that makes them open up?

Roxanne: The salon environment is one that is very unusual as people relate in a very real way to strangers and divulge some of their most intimate details.

Luis: Do you also have a Lady BFF (Best Friend Forever) and a Hairdresser BFF -- if so why do you stick with them?

Roxanne: I met my best friend in a Beverly Hills hair salon. We have been through many of life's work together. A hairdresser is a very sacred person. One's hair is an identity and easy to change when need be. When one is this intimate with someone, change of person is not always enjoyed.

Luis: Are the two best friends' common Hairdresser symbolic of anything?

Roxanne: Trust, friendship...sometimes closer than a lover or partner.

Luis: Long term relationships come from knowing each other -- what makes a "real friend" for you?

Roxanne: Trustworthy, honest, a person that is there for you in the good times and the bad. No judgement but honest.

Luis: How did you go about casting Shelly Long, Harry Shearer abnd Deborah Theaker? Great ensemble work... pls tell me about your casting process?

Roxanne: Once started it moved along at a fast clip. I met Shelley in a coffee shop. Not unlike our heroines. She read the script and two hours latter called me to say it was the best material she had read and was doing the part of Barbara. She felt I was a new and unique voice. The same with Harry, Deborah, Judith, Kate and James. Wayne Brady called me within 24 hours to say the same. Unfortunately his schedule did not allow for him to take on the short film. I believe in trusting my actors. hire best talent and crew...trust them. Show respect and honor for your professional talent and crew. I have a strong Broadway and repertory theatre background. From this I believe in a very collaborative process. Hire the best talent and work with them to guide the project to the best conclusion.

Luis: Of course you also have "Heroes" superstar James Kyson Lee as one of the characters...how was it working with him. Was this before or during his "Heroes" celebrity?

Roxanne: It was during his "Heroes" celebrity....he is a gifted actor, easy to work with and understands the process. I like working with gifted actors and improvising. I also believe in letting the actors exlore their process with guidance.

Luis: How long had you worked on writing this particular project.

Roxanne: I always write from personal experience. I had wanted to explore this theme for some time. The idea germinates with me and then it must come out. Usually in one full and long sitting.

Luis: How much of this film is Hollywood? Are these White Chicks in your film the face of women in LA?

Roxanne: I think they are the voice of women internationaly..women and people in general have most of the same needs. Honor, respect, love, friendship, financial freedom. when these basic needs are met people thrive.

Luis: What is next for Roxanne?

Roxanne: I have a strong dance background and was a child performer in musicals and dance. I am writing two musical projects: Dream Moms, an interracial musical project about two women who find dreams can come true at 40. Gypsy Robe is about the Broadway quilt that goes to the Gypsies in a show. It follows the lives of three teenagers as they try to fulfill their aspirations for dancing and singing on Broadway. Maddie's Boy focuses on a "Manchurian Candidate" mother and her 20 year old son. Set in Louisiana in the 80's following Maddie's political career through her shy art student son, the audience realizes how Katrina could happened latter. Vilmos Zsigmond, Delroy Lindo, Kate Winslet and Doctor John are talking to me about working on the film. The Big Show Tallulah On Trial is about the turbulent life of Tallulah Bankhead when she in embroiled in a legal battle with her maid. I am in China now working on a project Pearl Buck: A Mother in Conflict a co-production with Shanghai Studios. It follows the life of the famous author who knew the soul of the Chinese Peasant so well.

Luis: Do you have any advice to filmmakers out there about pursuing their ideal cast, location, crew and about finishing their project?

Roxanne: Write with passion from your own experience…go get that experience, be observant, study people and environments, Believe in your work and that you have a message to convey. One must love the material. For me genre does not matter…the story must be compelling and the message strong. I have a strong Broadway and repertory theatre background. From this I believe in a very collaborative process. Hire the best talent and work with them to guide the project to the best conclusion. I have always been on time and budget with my projects. They have made 2-3X in profit. White Chicks was the first piece I wrote, directed and produced. It was a great experience to see my written word come alive with such supportive and viable talent.

******************************************

Roxanne Messina Captor, James Kyson Lee, Shelly Long and Deborah Theaker on the set of "A Couple of White Chicks at the Hairdresser"

A COUPLE OF WHITE CHICKS AT THE HAIRDRESSER
Premieres Sept. 16 at LA Shorts Fest. The film directed by Roxanne Messina Captor Film Stars Comic Vets Harry Shearer, Shelly Long, and Deborah Theaker

Saturday, September 1, 2007
NEW YORK – A Couple of White Chicks at the Hairdresser, the first project from Roxanne Messina Captor’s Mii Amo LLC, written, directed and produced by Messina Captor will have its world premiere at the 2007 Los Angeles International Short Film Festival on September 16 at 7:45 pm at the AMC Town Center 6 Burbank. The film stars comic veterans Shelley Long (“Cheers,” Dr. T and the Women), Harry Shearer (“The Simpsons,” A Mighty Wind), and Deborah Theaker (For Your Consideration, A Mighty Wind). Kate Linder (The Young and the Restless) and James Kyson Lee (Heroes) also star.

The story revolves around a Hollywood hair salon owned by Mark Gavin, a gay Republican hairdresser hilariously portrayed by Shearer, and his two best clients, played by Long and Theaker, who resolve an on-again off-again professional rivalry to form an unconventional friendship.

White Chicks marks Francis Ford Coppola protégé Roxanne Messina Captor’s return to the filmmaking world after a successful career in theater and television, and as Executive Director of the San Francisco International Film Festival. Her previous credits as a producer/director include the independent and telefilms. Her Married Lover, Dead On Sight and the Emmy-nominated Home Sweet Homeless.

According to Messina Captor, "this film explores how two very different women can support each other through life‘s trials and tribulations. It was important to me to study the difference between what is on the surface and what is the truth underneath; behind closed doors. Harry's role is the fulcrum for the women and a strong motivator for their exploration."

The Los Angeles International Short Film Festival is the largest short film festival in the world. Over 25 participants of the festival have earned Academy Award nominations, with eight filmmakers taking home the Oscar. The festival annually attracts over 15,000 moviegoers, filmmakers, and entertainment executives.

Exclusive Interview with Hubbel Palmer, Screen Writer and Star of "American Fork". Premiering at the Slamdance Film Festival in Park City, Utah, 2007.

By: Luis Pedron of www.fanclubx.com

Luis: As a the writer of the film and the star of the film (American Fork) you wrote, how was the experience like? How was your relationship with the director both as writer and actor…. Did he ask you for your input in both the pre prod and during the principal shoot?

Hubbel Palmer: I chose to work with Chris Bowman because I trusted his instincts. We started working together about two years before shooting. I knew he was the man for the job because every time he would give me a note on the script it would feel like an improvement rather than a compromise. A few months before filming, I really made an effort to step away from the script as a writer and re-approach it as an actor. If I had a question about anything in the script I would defer to him. During production, we would occasionally confer if I felt a scene wasn’t headed in the right direction, but that was rare.

Luis: How did you go about selling (or getting funding ) for your story?

Hubbel Palmer: This was a two year process with a lot of false starts. At one point we had an Indian restauranteur who wanted to put up half the funding, but felt strongly that the film needed a Bollywood style musical fantasy sequence. He backed out before we had to seriously consider that. The funding question is the most frustrating part of the film-making process. When it finally came together it was fairly simple–a single investor who was totally supportive and laissez-faire.

Luis: I am so excited about how this character of yours is into motivating his family and friends… I am into positively helping others as well? Is this based on your own philosophy in life or Is this based on someone you met?

Hubbel Palmer: Tracy is a little bit me and a little bit of people I knew when I worked at a grocery store as a teenager. I believe that life is about how we treat and interact with the people around us. The trick is figuring out the right way to influence people without offending them or being taken advantage of by them. I think, by the end of the story, Tracy is a little more savvy about that.

Luis: You are best fit to play this character, Tracy Orbison, since you know this "character" by heart… did you still have to do any preparation both physically and mentally to play a challenging role like this?

Hubbel Palmer: I grew my hair out for the part—I don’t know, that just felt like the right look for this guy. I also spent some time walking around in character. I went to a mall and interacted with people the way I thought Tracy would. It was a very subtle difference but helped me a lot.

Luis: How do you wish Tracy will be seen by the audience? Who do you think is the target audience for your film.

Hubbel Palmer: I hope people feel sympathy for Tracy, but not so much that they don’t see the humor in the movie. This is a fine line. Some people find the movie hilarious, while others just feel bad for Tracy. There are some obvious laughs in the film, but I don’t think we spell it out for people. The audience for this film are people who enjoy films that walk the line between comedy and drama (Punch-Drunk Love, Ghost World).

Luis: What does American Fork mean? Where is Mountain West? Where did you shoot your film?

Hubbel Palmer: We called it American Fork mostly because we liked the combination of words. "American" because the film is set in that bland world known as "middle America" and "fork" because Tracy’s at a fork in the road, a point of decision. Fork is also an eating utensil. There’s a town in Utah called American Fork, but the film doesn’t take place there. The Mountain West refers to that mountainous corridor of America including Utah, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho. It’s a hard part of the country to define. It’s not the midwest, it’s not the Southwest, and it’s not the West Coast. It’s characterized by conservative values, strong families, and fervent religiosity. We shot in Salt Lake City, Utah—my hometown.

Luis: How was your shoot like in that location where you embraced by the community?

Hubbel Palmer: We had a lot of help from the community. Utah has a lot of film production. Last summer there were six other movies shooting at the same time as us and ours probably had the lowest budget. In spite of that, we were able to assemble a very competent crew (half local/half out-of-towners) and we cast many of our parts locally.

Luis: How was it working with your co stars: especially with Kathleen Quinlan and William Baldwin?

Hubbel Palmer: Kathleen Quinlan was fantastic. She was so maternal and supportive. We had some tough scenes together and she gave her all on every take. With her thirty plus years experience in the business you would think she’d be a diva, but not so–she’s just the kindest most centered person you could ever meet. Billy Baldwin was cool as well. He totally nailed the part—totally got it, right away. He’s a great storyteller, too. Very funny. My mom was on set two of the days he was there and he went out of his way to say hi to her and make her feel special.

Luis: Any funny anecdotes on set? Hmmmm!

Hubbel Palmer: I can’t really think of any.

Luis: I read a blog on the net from SXSW’s Matt Dentler, your acquiantance years ago, that you were friendly and a film fan? May I ask you who your favorite directors and what your favorite films are?

Hubbel Palmer: My tastes run the gamut. My official top five are Wim Wenders’ Far Away, So Close!, Carl Theodor Dreyer’s Ordet, Robert Duvall’s The Apostle, Bill Forsyth’s Housekeeping, and Robert Mulligan’s To Kill a Mockingbird . But those aren’t the kind of films you can watch over and over again. For a while I would watch Alan J. Pakula’s All the President’s Men every week. As for favorite directors—it’s hard to narrow it down. I know it’s a cliche, but I think Ingmar Bergman is the great giant of cinema–I don’t know if anyone else even comes close. Frank Capra is my favorite classic Hollywood director and Robert Zemeckis is one of my favorites of the past twenty five years. I think some of the best films are the ones where an otherwise journeyman director strikes gold and makes an accidental masterpiece. Know what I mean? An example might be Frank LaLoggia’s The Lady in White or Lynne Littman’s Testament.

Luis: Which among the films this year are your favorite Oscar contenders? How about Oscar performances? Oscar Best Pic?

Hubbel Palmer: The two best movies I saw this year are The Prestige and Idiocracy, but I don’t think either are considered Oscar contenders. I thought Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale both gave Oscar-worthy performances in The Prestige. I also liked Judi Dench in Notes on a Scandal.

Luis: Please give us your words of wisdom in how to get your story out there in the market, get it done as a feature film and hopefully star in it too?

Hubbel Palmer: Having a good script is everything. It’s got to be the kind of thing that speaks for itself and gets people excited—and it’s gotta be something you’re excited about. Try and write something that you could realistically get made, something that could be made on the cheap or for as much money as people are willing to give you. I admire people like Shane Carruth, who made Primer---an amazing film---shot for $7000. The next step is to gather a nucleus of people, 2 or 3, who are as passionate about making this movie as you. Pooling your ideas and resources together, you’ll figure out how to make the film. It also helps to understand the independent film world. There are people out there who are looking for hidden gems made on the cheap. Figure out who those people are and get your film into their hands. As far as acting in your own film, it may not be a good idea. You want to cast the best person you can in the role—if that is you, fine. Also, beware of trying to act and direct at the same time. It’s usually more than a novice film maker can handle.

Exclusive Interview with Hollywood Writer/Director, Rod Lurie whose film “Resurrecting the Champ” (starring Josh Hartnett, Samuel L Jackson, Alan Alda

Interview by: Luis Pedron of Fanclubx.com


Luis: Firstly Mr Lurie, I would like to thank you for granting me this interview. I really appreciate it, am flattered. I like the trend of motivational underdog sports related stories coming back to the film industry. I hope this encourages our youth and anyone who is down and out. What makes "Resurrecting the Champ" unique to this type of genre? What made you write and pursue this storyline? What are the advantages of being the director of your own screenplay ?

Rod Lurie: Well, the premise of your question is just a bit off. "Resurrecting the Champ" is certainly an underdog story, but not in relation to the sports world (though it is set in the arena of sports journalism- boxing specifically). Josh Hartnett plays a young reporter and father who has to overcome his own deficiencies to become proficient in both of those "jobs." It is something that I think most fathers will be able to relate with. I know that I can. I hope that by the end of the film, the audience will feel the same triumph that they did at the end of movies like "Rocky" or "The Rookie."

Though I wrote much of the screenplay, the WGA awarded credit to Allison Burnett and Michael Bortman. (There is an unwritten rule that only up to two writers can get credit) Chris Gerolmo, who is a fine writer, also did his share of writing. I came on the film and executed my own version of the screenplay incorporating elements of all three versions. But I do have enough of a sense of authorship in the screenplay to be able to say this about directing what I have written: It simplifies life. There is a unity of thinking about what the film is about. When you talk to the actors about the motivations of the characters there is no guessing. You know.

Luis: As to the story line of the fallen athlete (Jackson), why do you think some successful people sabotage their own success and prosperity?

Rod Lurie: One doesn't land on success and prosperity. It lands on you. It changes your life. Suddenly. The people around you change. Suddenly. Sometimes fame and what it brings with it can not accomodate the personalities of the people who have obtained it. Gary Busey once said to me, "If you think it sucks to be rich and famous, try being poor and famous."

Luis: As a writer, I can relate to Harnett's character's need to pursue the ultimate article that will put me to the top… did you have a similar experience when you were out there as a writer?

Rod Lurie: I did. And what a thrill it was to find that story (one was a piece on criminal activity at the National Enquirer). And what a thrill it was to find that elusive interview subject. I miss it.

Luis: I commend you for your choice of great actors from Harnett , Hatcher, Alda and Jackson… how did you get to this ensemble (combination)? Any anecdotes about your casting process?

Rod Lurie: This movie first started to be developed by Mike Medavoy about ten years ago. Back then, Sam was far too young for the role (he still is, but managed to pull it off) and , anyway, it wasn't my film. Morgan Freeman was the man at the time. In fact, Morgan was one of the film's producers. He was connected to the film for almost nine years. For that period of time, he was the only person we had in mind, For various reasons, it became not possible to do the film with him. Although we had lost a great actor, it also allowed us the sheer excitement of being able to think differently than we had for almost a decade - something that any artist will tell you is thrilling. We went to Sam right away who accepted it almost instantaneously. It was then that we sort of got treated to an all new Champ.

Luis: As a critic turned successful filmmaker, what are the advantages of being able to be in both sides of the ballgame?

Any suggestions for a reviewer like me who has also done his feature film ( I am sending out my feature film called "Multo" to different festivals )?

Rod Lurie: First of all, congrats on your film. Simply having made it is a huge achievement. I think that there is not that much benefit in having been a critic other than you are compelled to have seen just about everything, which, consequently, ensures that you have a great deal of ideas stored in your brain.

I must say that if I ever went back to criticism, I would be better at my job. It's too detailed to get into here, but I would say that I would be far less snarky, farless concerned with showing off how clever I can be when making attacks on film makers and actors. The sheer work that goes into making a film alone should free the people who put in that effort from the kind of personal attacks I used to make.

Luis: For me, Sundance means Stamp of Approval …..What does Sundance Film Festival mean to you and why?

Rod Lurie: It really is kind of a stamp of approval, isn't it. People are wowwed when they hear a film is up there. The festival has launched some of the all time great films. I don't think that we are necessarily at that level, but its nice to have ourselves somehow connected to Soderbergh's movies or Tarantino's. Its an honor, really. Being up there also gives the film a stamp of independence - a film made by film makers who care about the project rather than executives who care about the product.

Luis: What words of wisdom do you have for filmmakers who would like to be in Sundance Film Festival in the future?

Rod Lurie: If I were wise I could answer that question.

Luis: If you don't mind me asking, what are the different selling points of your film "Resurrecting the Champ?"

Rod Lurie: This is a story, in the end, about fathers and sons. And that has a huge appeal, I think. Really, the antecedent for "Resurrecting" is "Kramer versus Kramer". I showed it to my cast and crew before we began. I wanted the honesty of that beautiful film to seep into the collective. That was a film that was meant for fathers, for anybody who has ever had a father, for women who want their husbands to be good and decent men for their children, and for anybody with a heart. "Resurrecting" tries to hit the same nerve. Whether or not we succeed at the 'Kramer" level is unlikely - we don't have as talented a director - but we are sure trying.

There is one other thing. It may be as much of a negative as a selling point as it is a positive. That is that almost all the actors are working outside their iconographies. Sam is way outside "Pulp Fiction" or "Shaft" or "Snakes on a Plane." Josh is a married father, not a hearththrob. Kathryn Morris play a stern detective in "Cold Case" Here she's as empathetic as can be. Even Alda shorn his hair for this film - a look he's never had. When actors play away from what has brought them to the big dance and they succeed -- that's a call for some kind of celebration.

Luis: Congratulations Mr Lurie and I think you deserve all the successes in your life. I am so proud of you! Have a great 2007 and a great Sundance 2007 premiere!