Out with the old, in with the new. Yes, after 4 years, The Film Commune has disbanded. Blame "creative differences" if you will. Despite the many incarnations the group had and controversies it caused, I'm proud of what we were able to accomplish(from the yearly Indianapolis Underground Film Festival to the short-lived Indie Scene TV on WRTV6 to the successful premieres of Fake ID and Coming To My Senses this past December). Of course, nobody is perfect. There were mistakes and mistreatments along the way; I do have regrets. But, for the most part, it was a wonderful experience and allowed us to work with so many talented and creative people. Change is good, however, and I'm excited for what's next. Thank you to everyone who supported us in the past. I hope you will continue supporting our new individual endeavors in the future.
13 comments:
First the demise of the Film Commission and now the Commune? What is happening to the scene in Indy?
Your pic is hot! Got that whole brooding smoldering artist thing going on!
What is the scoop on the Film Commission? I thought that there was some progress being made to bring more
film production into the state???
Making great connections as well as films that people want to see are key to the success of a successful film community. The same principle applies to any art scene in any city. Indy needs to rise to the challenge.
Don't waste talent making mediocre movies then more people will pay attention. Don't limit yourselves to violence, murder mystery, science fiction,biopics or films with cute little creatures in them, or looking like Keanu Reeves or Angelina Jolie just because it's a proven formula that works. Remember, mediocrity isn't always bad, it just isn't great...by definition.
Also remember most people to market to are over 35 and under 18. It used to be the other way around in the 80's and early 90s. Not perfect ideas...just food for thought.
Lights! Camera! Action!
Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe that our Film Commission was closed because the "My Man Mitch" Daniels administration (shudder) thought it was an unworthwhile expenditure to staff a 2 wo/man commission if the FULL production tax incentives legislation didn't pass. Only an AMMENDED version did...causing productions to most likely go to other states. I think this leaves Indiana as the only state in the U.S. without a Film Commission/Office. Gotta love our progressive politics.
So what happens with Coming to My Senses now? How did it do at in NY?
If I understand it correctly the Film Commission is now a part the economic development office. So in effect it still exist but under a different banner.
The amended version for tax incentives is not of much value but it is a start. And no Indiana is not the only state that doesn’t have a Film Commission, In several states you will find a city or county Commission but nothing for the state.
One final note I think it would be a good idea NOT to allow Anonymous postings.
About CTMS...
Still sending it out to various festivals, screening series and television outlets. Info will be made available on this site as it comes in. I was unable to attend the screening in New York b/c I'm in production on POV, but Becky Archibald (the film's composer) and her husband were there and they said someone laughed. So that's good, right? ;)
About the IFC...
Yes I was wrong. According to this list (www.nzvideos.org/statecommissions.html), it looks as if Massachusetts is also without an official state commission/office. So I guess it has nothing to do with "progressive politics" afterall. MA is pretty much ahead-of-the-curve when it comes to that. But they do have the Massachusetts Film Bureau, an association made up of MA business executives and private individuals to support the film community there.
I guess that makes us 1 of 2 states without right now.
Thanks for the link I did not have that one. Here is another.
Film Commissions
http://www.adproductionnetwork.com/film_commissions.htm
The Indiana Film Office is not closed. This is a portion of an email I received on the 23rd.
“It's functions are being handled by Whitney Overturf, IEDC Project Manager, who reports directly to Chris Pfaff, Director of Business Development. Whitney can be reached at 317-232-8853 and at woverturf@commerce.in.gov.”
They are currently developing a new name and marketing plan, they are committed to the growth of the film industry in Indiana. As much as I like Jane Rulond and Chris Pohl I think they did a great job, I do think it is time for a different approach to attract out of state film production companies.
Give them a chance nothing happens over night.
David Schlatter
OOPS I forgot to enter my name for the heading I did not mean for it to read Anonymous
David Schlatter
To be honest Chad I'm glad to see the Film Commune go. A gimmick will only get you so far and I think you all really "jumped the shark" with that last incarnation. I understand you were looking to get away from the whole edgy-underground thing and be a little more slick or whatever, but it really looked silly. You're a talented guy. You proved that with Coming To My Senses and I look forward to seeing what's next from you young man.
No Film commission, Yes support the already wealthy private buisinessman with the Colts Stadium, oh and while you're at it, Tax only 7 counties to pay for it.
Apparently you don’t know how or just don’t care to read the post I made that the Film Commission is NOT CLOSED. It would also seem that you are not in favor of economic development and have completely disregarded the fact that the convention center is also included in that tax and that means JOBS through out not just central Indiana but the entire state.
Now be a grown up and attach your name to your statements.
David Schlatter
Hey..I was searching online for listings for make-up artistry in INdianapolis. Not sure if you're working on any projects right now, but I have done make up for Film Commune pieces (I'm an aqquaintance of Jeff's), and we might have met. Sorry to be leaving this comment on your blog...anyhoo, if you're ever in need of any artistry, let me know. 7 years experience, currently working for MAC Cosmetics and looking for freelance work!
sarahstierch@Yahoo.com
Ciao!
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