INDIANA: THE BIRTHPLACE OF COOL

Today marks the 50th anniversary of the death of probably the most famous Hoosier, James Dean. I'm not a fanatic, or a "Deaner" as his die-hard fans call themselves, but I do find it interesting that this Hollywood icon was born and buried only an hour from where I live. My friend Caleb and I drove up to Fairmount this past Sunday for the annual James Dean Festival. First stop was the Fairmount Historical Museum, where we encountered a Parisian camera crew taping a show for French TV. For being a small town in the middle of a cornfield, Fairmount has had some amazing residents. Jim Davis, the creator of Garfield, is also a native. Next stop was Park Cemetery, where we paid our respects at Dean's grave by placing cigarettes and pennies on his headstone. Others had left flowers, beer and even women's underwear. And, finally, we made the short drive to Gas City to visit the James Dean Gallery, an exhibit and archive that contains the world's largest collection of Dean memorabilia. In life, and even moreso in death, he truly is the definition of "cool."

INDULGING MY SENSES AT ORANJE

Had a lot of fun this past Saturday night at Oranje. The screening room was standing room only most of the night and the reception to Coming To My Senses was great. Big thanks to Chris Commons for organizing it all. Also got a chance to see my old co-worker Sami Mustaklem of Infamy Films and hang out with the ANC Movies gang (I'm pictured above with Charlie and Barnaby) who were there promoting their Movie Prom to be held Friday, October 14th. Looking forward to that as well.

TAKING THE BAD WITH THE GOOD

Of course I was pleased when critic John Oak Dalton at Microcinema Scene gave Coming To My Senses a wonderful 4 star review. Most of what I've heard from audiences has been overwhelmingly positive. So I was surprised to read the latest review from Film Threat critic Greg Bellavia. He gave it only 1.5 stars, saying that "while ripe with possibilities, the director seems content to show his heroine on a much more banal journey. Coming To My Senses certainly looks great for being shot on DV, but Chad Richards may want to include a story in his next film." OUCH! It's amazing how two people can see things so differently. But that's part of the game. You don't win them all. And, while I disagree with Mr. Bellavia in most regards, I do appreciate him taking time to watch my film and share his thoughts.

NEW INSIDE REPORT INTERVIEW

You can now catch me discussing Coming To My Senses on the September edition of the net's #1 indie film show Inside Report. I did the interview with Sky Wilson back in April (before I cut off all my hair) when she was here in the States. Great lady. I love the British.

TWO SENSES SCREENINGS IN SEPTEMBER

The are two screenings of Coming To My Senses slated for September. First will be Saturday, September 17th in Indianapolis as part of the ORANJE progressive art and music showcase. Should be a inspiring night of fine art, film and music. The following Saturday, September 24th, CTMS will screen in Cleveland, Ohio at the TwistedSpine Micro Film Festival. I have a special place in my heart for Cleveland with it being my birthplace and all so I'm looking forward to that trip.