Why try to build a career in film as a professional?
A good reason to have a career in the industry is that it continues to grow. The resources for showing a movie seem endless. We have movie theaters, the Internet, streaming, and Blu-ray/DVD—significant companies distribute films. Many film jobs are available in California and other parts of the country, both in front of and behind the camera.
Periodically, the American Film Marketing Association (AFMA) conducts a study of filmmakers’ economic impact. Its findings are rewarding for those eager to work in the film or entertainment industry, particularly those interested in roles that do not involve the financial and emotional risks associated with fields such as acting and film crew work.
Hey, there is nothing wrong with being an actor or a member of a film crew. AFMA’s study reports that the industry is mature and growing. An industry that needs dedicated professionals in various trades is an opportunity for you.
Internet and Streaming
Filmmakers- independent and major studios- account for over 408,000 jobs nationwide. The report primarily includes those who work as consultants or freelancers. The bulk of the workforce is pretty much contract workers. The film industry’s “total U.S. economic effect” is over $12.5 billion.
Total production costs of network prime-time television, first-run syndication programs, and streaming platform offerings are enormous. Who gets all that money? You guessed it — film and television professionals who worked hard to make it in the business. That’s you.
The AFMA study concludes that there is a growing demand for films and entertainment. With the added benefit of many new formats like streaming and opportunities provided by emerging telecommunications and computer technologies, the industry is growing by leaps and bounds. It is most likely to continue to do so.
Nothing feels better than working in film because it’s such a creative industry.
Seventy-five percent of the people polled: Do you think you could make a successful career in film? Said, “Yes.”
Entertainment Industry
If you read the trades, you learn about the industry and how its growth is increasing and will continue to grow, verifying AFMA’s reports. Among the most validating reports on expansion in the film industry is CBS.com reporting that most Americans are streaming movies. Most of that streaming happens on Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, and Disney. As the list grows, so will the number of job opportunities.
Of course, figures like this rise and fall, and the business of film can have its shifts, even some of the large and most successful companies with hardly any warning.
Because the entertainment industry is creative, you have to be innovative to work in the industry. Reading the trades and studying books about the business will help you get your foot in the door. Once you are in the door, you need to maintain your foothold by acting professionally and learning more about the industry.
Breaking into Film is a book you should read to learn about the business. It is an easy read but dated. The bulk of the career book offers advice, tips, and fundamentals for getting your foot in the door and building a long career in the entertainment field.
The book offers samples of resumes and letters, which are vital to this industry. The book also discusses the dress code. How are you supposed to dress for an interview versus for a set? It dedicates a whole chapter to the importance of networking and establishing relationships.
Film production lasts forever because it’s an ever-evolving industry.
Industry Publications
Reading the trades is a vital part of being in the business and will help build your career. Some other publications to read are Film & Video, Filmmaker, Film Comment, Cinefex, and Cinefantastique. Each publication focuses on an aspect of the industry. Cinefex covers special effects, while Cinefantastique covers fantasy, science fiction, horror movies, and television.
Entertainment insiders tend to read publications that fans read to see how their competition is doing. They primarily read the “Calendar” sections of newspapers, the Los Angeles Times business section, and the Sunday edition of The New York Times.
Guilds, associations, and other unions distribute newsletters to their members. These newsletters are also available for non-members at a price. They specialize in current and upcoming events that interest you for networking purposes.
For the most part, these publications are available online.
United Talent Agency List
The best source for film job openings is the United Talent Agency List. This printout, published once a month or so, lists jobs that are important enough to pursue in the industry.
For over 30 years, the list has been where all the significant players place the job openings. The big hurdle is that the list is practically impossible to obtain unless you are one of the agency’s clients or connected to an industry insider.
Anonymous Production Assistant is a website that publishes the agency’s list. Reports say people get film jobs from the webmaster’s postings. If I were you, I’d give it a try and see what happens.
First Job in Film
Breaking into the entertainment industry is not easy, but it gets easier once you have your first job. It’s vital that you persevere and don’t give up. Each job leads to the next job offer, which takes time and effort.
Financing a movie requires a producer who understands the different production management tools. | Source
Checks and Balances of Budgeting a Film
As a filmmaker, it is essential to understand how to control money while making a film. Not everyone in the production is concerned about the money, but someone has to ensure the money is used correctly and supports the overall production. Sure, the line producer is watching the costs, but it is not just his responsibility. It is also your responsibility as the producer. Here are some key points to consider when taking control of the production money.
Above-the-Line
This article has touched on this area of budgeting, but a closer look would help gain a better understanding of the cost and should help the filmmaker. Above-the-line covers all costs associated with the writer, director, producers, cast, and stunts. The costs are controlled by competition, including other studios, production companies, and financiers. This aspect of the budget comes into play at the early stages of the project and rarely influences cost-control decisions once the film is in production. However, stunt performers often face unpredictable problems, and if a filmmaker can avoid using them, all the better. When a script calls for a character to be injured on camera, a stunt performer is required. The producer needs to control this production area because significant savings can be achieved by effectively managing stunts.
The casting budget is one of the trickiest costs to predict because so many variables come into play with on-screen talent. The Screen Actors Guild bargains for pay for actors in the industry. Some production companies agree only to hire SAG-AFTRA actors, who are signatory companies. But filmmakers should not be intimidated by working with only SAG actors. The guild is approachable and willing to work with independent producers because they want their actors to work; the production agreement changes based on the shooting location. For example, a scale actor in Los Angeles will earn $859.00 a day, with ten percent going to the agent on top of the day rate. Extra actors or general background performers, represented by SAG-AFTRA, earn $ 152 per day, plus all fringe benefits. These wages can vary.
Fringes
There are additional payments to governments and unions for every dollar spent on casting and stunt work. On average, it is approximately 32% on the fringes, similar to the payroll of any company. Such costs include state, local or federal-mandated requirements. Pension, health, and welfare payments for members of guilds and other fringe groups might also be considered, including employer-funded disability and medical programs. But fringes can’t be overlooked when a filmmaker looks at ways to cut costs.
The producer needs the line producer’s agreement to stick to the shooting schedule. | Source
Shooting Timeline
The film’s shooting period influences the budget. Do the math. The longer it takes to shoot a movie, the more it will cost the filmmaker. An example of the cost of producing a film with a one-day small unit “pick up” shot is about $20,000. It includes the location and rates for above-the-line and below-the-line crew, excluding principal actors and background extras.
The shooting period encompasses everything related to the time spent filming, including the time required to wrap up production, which typically takes about two weeks after shooting is completed. The costs include labor for the entire crew, camera, grip, and electric equipment rentals, construction, wardrobe, transportation, and so forth. As mentioned earlier in this article, some producers refer to this section as part of the below-the-line. Below-the-line includes post-production costs as well.
Post-Production
After they complete the shooting period, the process is called post-production. This area of budgeting encompasses editing, visual effects, sound mixing, music, and other related expenses. If the film is in poor shape when it reaches post-production, the filmmaker, director, and producers do everything in their power to correct it. Everything could go well during the shooting period, but the climate might change once the project reaches post-production. There are endless stories about runaway productions happening in post. In their professional opinion, the studio and financiers want to create the best “look” possible. The film can look even better because technical experts can bring to life any image or idea the studio and financiers desire. If the filmmaker loses control at this point in the film’s budgeting, all the hard work is for nothing. The filmmaker must understand the importance of a tight, coordinated effort with all the key players, including producers, directors, editors, post-production supervisors, and financiers.
Other Costs
As a final point, they often overlook other costs when budgeting the project because they are not glamorous or creative. They include insurance, legal expenses, on-set publicity costs, and other related expenses. The financiers are familiar with this aspect of budgeting and typically know the different costs before agreeing to finance the production. Filmmakers should involve financiers, the studio, a bonding company, and the line producer when discussing additional expenses to protect themselves and gain insights from experienced opinions.
A filmmaker might come across a financier or studio head mentioning that an “overhead” account includes the contingency. Nowadays, it is hardly ever used. The key factor is securing financing, with the bonding company agreeing to provide a bond for the project. As a side note, there is no way to avoid a bonding company when a bank participates in the overall production. Obtaining a completion bond is not a bad idea because it guarantees investors or banks that the film, barring an Act of God, can be produced effectively and within the budgeted amount.
The Weekly Production Report keeps executives and accounts up to date. | Source
Budget Points
All budget points can typically be found on the budget summary sheet. Once the filmmaker has the budget in place and approved, their attention needs to shift from budgeting to reporting expenses as they arise. The line producer and production accountant can help the filmmaker with the comparisons. The comparisons are traditionally referred to as the Weekly Cost Report. It is a progress report on the financial performance of production.
The Weekly Cost Report
The Weekly Cost Report brings a whole new meaning to being creative and is an adventure in discovering the many ways to bring cost reporting to life. The production accountant and line producer can be your allies when gathering expenses. Accounting can utilize a technicality that filmmakers need to know when reporting the Weekly Cost Report. It is all about how the filmmaker controls the money by learning how to direct the reporting process sufficiently and ethically, resulting in a decent yet dependable presentation of the production costs. The filmmaker is presenting the progress report to those backing the film production. Regardless, the report is provided to the studio executives, bonding company, and financiers every week.
Alternative Funding
Not having enough funds to finish a film is common among independent filmmakers and producers. The key is to keep going and find alternative sources of funding to see your production through to the end. Alternative funding campaigns offer a tremendous opportunity to leverage a financing route that involves the whole community from day one. As the producer or filmmaker, you must choose the best funding source for your production. It will take hard work and a dedicated team to pull it off. The hard work is doing your homework and learning how to do it successfully. The Internet is full of resources, and each funding platform offers directions and guidelines to achieve your funding.
Crowdfunding
Crowdfunding is a resource that has an excellent track record.
There are three reputable platforms: GoFundMe, Kickstarter and Indiegogo. As a filmmaker, you must study these platforms to learn how to get the best funds for your efforts. The key is to rally your team, from actors to production designers. Every individual who plays a role in your film should be involved in the crowdfunding project. The more players you have, the better the chance of reaching your funding goal.
Grants Help Funding
Funding a film production through grants is a resource that has been around for quite some time. They fill the Internet with endless resources for filmmakers to use in grant applications. They set most grants up for a particular quality or forte of the film being produced. For example, African Americans, Native Americans, or Women in Film are popular areas for grant applications. But one of the first things grant readers look for is “passion and connection to the project.” The readers view thousands of applications and know that the most essential ingredient in a proposal is the person’s passion for the project. It will still be there three years from now, as it may take too long to finish the film.
A resourceful producer or filmmaker will discover unique ways to fund their movie. | Source
Film Festivals
Film Festivals are another resource for funding a film production. The Sundance Film Festival and its institute are an excellent example of a film festival offering funding for filmmakers, from screenwriting to music. The institute’s website supports a dedicated page for its funding opportunities. Filmmakers can peruse the site and understand what they need to present to the institute to be considered a candidate. Filmmakers attending film festivals is another way to network and find funding.
Foundations Help Fund Film Productions
Foundations are another source of funding for a film production. These foundations offer grants, just like applying for one. Knowing who you are approaching is critical when applying for a grant. Who are the judges? What projects have you won before? Were they first-time filmmakers? Did they have a history of documentary films or feature films to win? Look at the prior winners to give you an idea of who you are applying to. Then you can direct your application to that person.
Listening to Barbra Streisand sing any song is pure joy. She takes singing to a level that few have achieved in their careers.
I have never seen her in concert. Something that I would like to correct. Even if I sit in the nosebleed seats, it is a memory I will cherish forever.
Filmmaker
Although she is a singer, she is also an actress-turned-filmmaker, singing songs written specifically for her movies. As a filmmaker, she is unparalleled. Surprisingly, they missed the Oscar radar a couple of times. Yentl comes to mind, and The Mirror Has Two Faces. Both films came from Barbra’s heart, which is clear.
Based on a bestseller, she directed and starred in The Prince of Tides. It might not be as personal as the others, but she still sings.
Love Is The Answer
It surprised me to hear that this is her only jazz release. It’s the only jazz album with Barbra singing so well.
“I hated singing. I wanted to be an actress. But I don’t think I’d have made it any other way.”— Barbra Streisand.
“Love is the Answer”
Listening to Barbra Streisand sing jazz standards is not a dream. You can hear her recording on her album Love Is the Answer. If you are a substantial Streisand fan, you know about this album. If you are not a fan but an admirer, this may be the first time you’ve ever heard that she is also a jazz singer.
Streisand’s Love Is the Answer arrived on the streets and radio airwaves in 2009. She sings as if the songs are part of her being, performing them with a passion for jazz. “It’s a toast to life,” Barbra explained in an interview.
Barbra Streisand’s album Love Is the Answer came out in 2009. When she sings, it’s like the jazz songs are part of her being performed with passion. “It’s a toast to life,” Barbra explained in an interview.
Love is the Answer, followed by Live In Concert 2006. Not bad for a three-year break, Barbra sings the notes and lyrics like she is on stage in a cabaret. Each song is jazzy, like an emotional dream. The depth and maturity of her renditions are deep. It’s like cherishing the first dawn reflections of past sorrows, hoping for kindhearted comforts.
The jazz album offered Barbra the opportunity to collaborate with the Grammy-winning jazz pianist Diana Krall—her quartet, comprising bass, guitar, and drums, showcases finesse. The tenderness is in delicate and understated compositions. Barbra and Diana never worked together until this project. You cannot tell because the music flows seamlessly and blends.
Grammy Winner Arranger
Barbra experienced an exclusive pleasure during the studio recording of the album. Working with celebrated songwriter and Grammy-winning arranger Johnny Mandel completed the creation. Mandel had been in the studio before with Barbra in 1993 while recording her Back to Broadway album. He worked with Diane before arranging and co-producing. The outcome was Krall’s 1998 Grammy-winning jazz album When I Look in Your Eyes. The familiarity and talent in the studio make it easy to understand Mandel’s work. He brought his awe-inspiring orchestrations to their collaboration on Love is Answer.
Listening to the standards, some of them held my love for them. “In The Wee Small Hours Of The Morning” was sung by legends like Frank Sinatra. “If You Go Away (Ne Me Quitte Pas)” is a version of the Jacques Brel standard presented in English and French. “Spring Can Hang You Up” is one of those songs Barbra sang back in a St. Louis club when she was only 18. The same version is on the album, marking the first-ever studio performance of this standard.
“There is nothing more important in life than love.”— Barbra Streisand
Bossa Nova Movie
“Gentle Rain” is a tender bossa nova performance. Derived from Black Orpheus, a movie that presented the rhythm style of Brazilian music,” Smoke Gets In Your Eyes” is a pensively sad and melancholy standard. First written in 1933 for Roberta, an operetta on Broadway by Jerome Kern and Otto Harbach, indicates the transformation of the rendition. Nat “King” Cole performed the song, as did the Platters and other great talents. “Some Other Time” is a jewel and is rarely presented with the music arranged by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Betty Comden.
“Barbra Streisand is without a doubt one of the most honest people I have ever known. There is no doubt in my mind that she will not be doing any more concerts. Of course, she still will be making records and starring and directing in movies.”— Marvin Hamlisch. Composer
Jazz Standards
Jazz standards tickle my ears and fill my heart with delight. Barbra Streisand sings them on Love Is Answer, and I hear pure joy. Of all the songs on the album, I pick “In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning,” my ultimate favorite. I praise Frank Sinatra’s version of this standard, and Barbra’s version is frothy, despondent and enchanting.
Your family wants to watch a good movie, and you need help picking a good family movie. Without spending too much time searching, I found the following movies streaming on either Netflix or Amazon.
Early Man
Incredibles 2
Five Fingers of Marseilles
Christopher Robin
A Quiet Place
Disney’s Earth
Alvin and the Chipmunks
VeggieTales Takes a Look at a Meaningful Life
Dolphin Tale
The Sandlot
Lady Bird
Logan
Kull: Skull Island
Boss Baby
Diary of a Wimpy Kid – The Long Haul
Little Italy
If you liked “Chicken Run” and “Wallace & Gromit,” you’ll like “Early Man.”
1. “Early Man”
Early Man brings laughter to the household because the movie is cute and filled with fun and likable characters. Dug, voiced by Eddie Redmayne, is a prehistoric caveman with goofy friends. The situation is hilarious, where the invaders are challenged to a game of soccer because Dug and his tribe need to win back their home.
The movie will capture your family’s attention because the kids relate to the innocence of the idiots, and adults will find the story funny. The undertone of humor in the situations makes parents chuckle. The claymation takes the story to a whole new level of brilliance.
“Incredibles 2” is just as good as “Incredibles” because Brad Bird directed both.
2. “Incredibles 2”
Incredibles 2 is an ideal family movie because it is about a family of superheroes. Other superheroes are also enthralling to see how the family adjusts to being superheroes when mom, Elastic Girl, leaves the family at home with dad in charge. Jack-Jack’s superhero powers are totally out of this world. Brad Bird wrote and directed the movie. His screenplay flies along with tight dialogue and plenty of funny moments. I strongly recommend this movie for family movie night because it is pure entertainment and will satisfy all ages.
If you want to watch back-to-back movies, I strongly recommend the prequel, Incredibles. Again, Brad Bird directs a funny and action-packed film for the whole family.
My library includes both movies because, on family movie night, we all agree to watch Incredibles. I loaned the Blu-ray to friends who haven’t seen it yet. When they return it, they profusely thank me as we discuss our favorite scenes.
Any scene with Edna is my favorite. She is such a funny and quirky character. In Incredibles 2, she goes way out and befriends Jack-Jack.
All the voice actors’ return in Incredibles 2 shows how capable Bird is as a director. Pixar will not fail you because the voice actors create delightful characters.
Finding a well-made Western is pure joy.
3. “Five Fingers of Marseilles”
Five Fingers of Marseilles is a western set before and after Apartheid in South Africa. The inhabitants of Marseilles are under the oppression of a corrupt police force, and Five Fingers is a group of rebels that stands up to it.
Tau executes two police officers, and he flees the town. The Five Fingers breaks up, and Tau chooses a life of crime and gets arrested.
Two decades later, he is discharged from prison as the dreaded outlaw known as The Lion of Marseilles.
He returns home wanting comfort and reconnection with those he had disregarded. Tau is entangled in another injustice and rebuilds the Five Fingers. Together they fight for justice.
Scripted by Sean Drummond, the story is believable and moves along quickly. Directed by Michael Matthews, the movie is in English with subtitles.
It’s a unique story about growing up, but not too seriously.
4. “Christopher Robin”
Winnie the Pooh, along with his best friends of the Hundred Acre Wood, leaves home for the big city to help Christopher Robin, who is now a father and in the workforce, become the loving and playful boy he used to be.
The journey is delightful, with silly Pooh and friends trying so hard to help Christopher. The movie will capture your heart.
Directed by her husband, Emily Blunt is so believable in “A Quiet Place.”
5. “A Quiet Place”
A Quiet Place trailer is an intense and scary movie. The story follows a family who must be quiet. Directed by John Krasinski, the supernatural thriller stars Krasinski and his wife, Emily Blunt. The film is enthralling and made so much money that the studio is producing a sequel.
Disneynature opens the world of nature to kids of all ages.
6. Disneynature’s “Earth “
Disneynature celebrates each Earth Day with the release of a documentary celebrating Earth, the environment, and animals. The first of the series was Earth, released in 2009. The movie set a documentary opening-day record, grossing $4 million from 1,804 theaters.
The concessions person explained that the movie theater had four loaded school buses for the 10:00 am showing. He talked about the kids swamping concessions with orders of sixty kids’ treat packages. Disney conducted an all-out campaign to encourage schools and families to attend the Earth Day opening, a wise move on their part.
Three Animals Tell the Story
In the movie Earth, we are introduced to a mother polar bear and her two cubs as we first catch sight of their snouts peeking out from their winter den. The movie charts several other animals, but the documentary focuses primarily on these three animals to tell the story of Earth: the polar bears, humpback whales, and African elephants. It is by far an epic film, giving the attention this endangered planet deserves.
Any movie night can become your own special Earth Day by watching a Disneynature film or one of the older Disney films about nature called True Life Adventures. Adventure movies focus on wildlife, and an Oscar-winning series initiated by Walt Disney himself. He truly loved wildlife and saw the importance of conveying the message to keep your planet sustainable. Once your family views a Disneynature documentary, you can discuss the need to change our living habits and help preserve our planet Earth, and the importance of keeping it intact for many generations to come.
7. “Alvin and the Chipmunks”
Alvin and the Chipmunks were super popular in the late 1950s and then returned in 2007 as computer-generated images, known as CGI. The three little rascals look more real than ever now. Like the movie poster says, “Things are going to get messy.”
JETT Records executive Ian Hawke, a former college roommate, rejected his most recent song. To make the story even more interesting, Dave had, at one time, a relationship with Claire Wilson, his next-door neighbor.
Favorite Scene
Alvin and his two buddies sing “Only You And You Alone.” Dave realizes he discovered three diamonds in the rough.
The movie takes off, and the Chipmunks sing the songs he writes, and he keeps them fed and sheltered. The singing and montages in the film are brilliant. Jason Lee does a fantastic job of playing off the little CGI animals.
One of my favorite scenes is when Theodore wakes up in the middle of the night, scared from a nightmare. Dave helps him feel safe by letting him sleep in his bed. Very cute; any parent or child will relate to this scene, later revisited with Uncle Ian in a rather poignant scene.
Little Rascals
But the chipmunks, being little rascals, cause some problems for Dave. But they are so adorable you can’t help but laugh, which makes this an ideal family movie. A cute scene is when Alvin tries to create the mood for Dave’s reunion dinner with Claire. The dinner becomes odd. She bails on Dave when he confesses, “My life is being sabotaged by talking chipmunks.”
Alvin and the Chipmunks want to make up for the blunder, so they record a song and get a record deal with Ian Hawke. Now, Alvin and the Chipmunks are more famous than the Jonas Brothers. The little animals are working so hard to keep up with the demand. Dave worries about them and tries to get control over the situation. With missed opportunities and Hawke’s underhanded scheme to steal the chipmunks, Dave lets them go. Hawke tells the chipmunks to call him Uncle Ian. He wants to make money off them without their well-being in mind. The little guys are overworked. They miss Dave, and Dave misses them.
Family Can Watch Together
Directed by Tim Hill, the movie is fun for anyone, but it’s one the family can watch together without worrying that parents will get bored or that jokes will go over the kids’ heads. The talented cast and voice actors make the movie. Some of the cast members are Jane Lynch from Glee, Justin Long as Alvin, Matthew Gray Gubler as Simon, Jesse McCartney as Theodore, David Cross as Ian Hawke, and Jason Lee as Dave.
Behind-the-Scenes
The Alvin and the Chipmunks DVD has a behind-the-scenes featurette detailing how they created the chipmunks’ singing. It is well worth the look, and you will discover the real singers of the movie.
VeggieTales are pure magic for the little ones.
8. “VeggieTales Takes a Look at a Meaningful Life”
The VeggieTales, in general, are great family movies because they are light and fluffy. The jokes are clean, and the situations are hilarious. Sure, the tales bring in the Christian faith, so what? They are fun, and kids and parents have a good time watching the veggie characters interact with each other without legs or arms, yet they still move things around in the air as if they have extremities.
They carry books and a football. The veggies don’t walk with legs. They bounce to and fro because they are vegetables.
One such VeggieTales movie that went directly to DVD is It’s a Meaningful Life – A Lesson in Being Content. The story is somewhat like Frank Capra’s It’s a Wonderful Life. The classic movie follows a sad businessman as he reflects on how his life has turned out, and he wishes he had never been born. An angel guides him to the right path by showing how important his life is. The movie boasts James Stewart, Lionel Barrymore, and Donna Reed.
Would Life Be Better?
The VeggieTales character Larry the Cucumber plays Stewart, who loves playing football and wants to play in the Salad Bowl. He wants to be famous for all the fortune that goes with fame. But he gets injured in a game, and his dream ends. Many years later, silly-but-sweet Stewart cares for his family and friends. He loves his job at the toy train factory.
He ponders what he would be if he weren’t injured, had become a famous football star, and had made lots of money. Would life be better? He changes the past to show Steward what it would be like if it had happened the way he wanted. A moral is learned through Christian teachings, and Stewart learns a lesson about life.
Multi-Grammy Winner – Steven Curtis Chapman
What the movie is really about is the song “Meant to Be,” produced by Steven Curtis Chapman, a multi-Grammy winner as well as a Dove Award winner. Of course, It’s a Meaningful Life has the traditional new silly song called “Goodnight Junior.”
You can even visit the VeggieTales website and download some excellent activities from the movie for kids and parents to do together. The DVD includes cool family bonus features, such as sing-along songs, interviews, audio commentary, and the Meaningful Family Life Guide.
9. “Dolphin Tale”
Dolphin Tale is a true story that follows a teenage boy, Sawyer, played by Nathan Gamble. Sawyer meets his best friend, a dolphin, washed up on Clearwater Beach in Florida. Dolphin is named Winter, who loses her tail after being snagged in a crab trap. He decides to take responsibility for Winter at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, and his life changes.
The dolphin plays herself in the movie, making it realistic for families to watch. The Blu-ray/DVD offers several perspectives on the dolphin’s story. The featurettes are entertaining but educational at the same time.
Sawyer helps find a prosthetic expert to fit Winter with a prosthetic fin—a fantastic and unbelievable feat – never been done before. I encourage families to watch this movie together because it is one of the best family movies I have ever seen. The film will tug at your heartstrings, featuring a talented cast including Morgan Freeman, Ashly Judd, and Harry Connick Jr.
10. “The Sandlot”
The Sandlotis a movie everyone in the family can enjoy because its story has both tension and apprehension, making it a film kids can watch with their parents. The film is about kids growing up in the 1960s, when kids could play on the streets and have more freedom. They didn’t need permission to go places or to stay in touch with their parents. They just played and had fun all day.
Scotty, a new kid in the neighborhood, tries to make friends with the kids who play baseball on the sandlot. It’s hard at first, but the boys come around, and the adventure begins. Scotty learns to play baseball as the story follows him and his buddies on an adventurous summer quest to retrieve a baseball with a Babe Ruth autograph. The movie entertains audiences of all ages, featuring some of the wildest moments, scary situations, and a first kiss. All nine boys grew up that summer and became best friends. The film is enchanting and a fun comedy.
Director Greta Gerwig is from my hometown.
11. “Lady Bird”
The movie is not only filmed in my hometown but also about it. I marvel at the phenomenon of connection. That’s the feeling I have toward Lady Bird because it’s set in my hometown.
Greta Gerwig’s movie follows a teenage girl, played by Saoirse Ronan, who calls herself “Lady Bird” and goes to a Catholic school similar to Gerwig’s High School.
The story is charming, no matter where you live, because it is about being a teenager with a prominent dream to go to college and be away from home.
She tries to be who she really is while contending with the crazy life of high school and her relationship with her mother.
And, Lady Bird received esteem at festivals, from the public, and the industry.
12. “Logan”
Hugh Jackman stars under the direction of James Mangold. Mangold’s notable credits include Walk the Line, which he co-wrote; The Wolverine;Girl, Interrupted;Cop Land;Knight and Day;Ford v. Ferrari; and 3:10 to Yuma.
An operation run by the government turns mutant kids into killers. Logan begins mentoring a mutant girl with two claws rather than his three. The movie is dark and gets more serious, but laughs and merriment appear toward the end.
A Harry Potter alumnus, Tom Felton, looks mighty mean, suntanned, and ready to be the wicked, bad guy.
13. “Kong: Skull Island”
Being promoted as a reimagining of the beginning of the mythic Kong, an exciting, creative venture, I acknowledge that remakes are not original. Yet, the movie is supposedly original, so don’t name it Kong.
The movie follows a diverse group brought together to research an uncharted island in the Pacific. The island is stunning, but dangerous. The group adventures into a strange and unfamiliar island, and they are unaware of exploring the realm of the mythic Kong.
14. “The Boss Baby”
The Boss Baby is a hilarious movie that the family is sure to like. The impact of a new baby’s arrival is told from a delightfully unpredictable narrator, a heatedly creative 7-year-old named Tim.
The voice of Alec Baldwin dons a suit and speaks in a sly, animated way. The movie’s heart-filled message about the meaning of family should appeal to the whole family.
15. “Diary of a Wimpy Kid – The Long Haul”
The last Wimpy Kid movie has a new cast, and it looks entertaining, although a road trip? I could be amusing. Watch the trailer, and you might see some familiar faces from the earlier movies.
Hayden Christensen played young Darth Vader.
16. “Little Italy”
Little Italy focuses on two childhood friends, Leo (Hayden Christensen) and Nikki (Emma Roberts). The movie is directed by Donald Petrie, who brought us Miss Congeniality, starring Sandra Bullock.
As in a classic story, Leo and Nikki become attracted to each other when they are adults. Their parents’ own contentious pizzerias put a bite on their passionate romance. If you are familiar with the story, this particular one is not a tragedy. Some classic stories end unhappily, but this romantic comedy is safe for a blossoming romance.
Streaming Movies are Rewarding
Watching a good movie with the family can be rewarding on many levels. They are upbeat, funny, and honorable. Whether you rent them on Netflix, Amazon, or cable, the stories share a message that the whole audience can relate to, refreshingly.
Whatever profession you decide to be in the film industry, whether in front of the camera or behind the camera, the more you study and learn about the industry, the more likely you will be successful. Study it thoroughly and gain a deeper understanding of your profession.
Understanding your profession helps explain why some directors are one-hit wonders. They direct a hit movie or two and are never heard of again. They couldn’t continue working in the right direction because they hadn’t studied their craft enough to understand why their film was a hit.
As you gain experience, you will become a professional, working as a director or a camera person. You may find yourself in the exact place you have dreamed of your whole life.
If you maintain your integrity, your industry knowledge will keep you stable. And you will work into your golden years.
Whatever you do in the film industry, whether in front of the camera or behind the camera, you need to know about the industry and study it thoroughly.
Dress for Success | Source
Dress Code
People who work behind the scenes in the film industry do not dress formally, but they can’t look careless or ineffective. So, wearing down is the style for film crews. Lawyers, lobbyists, stockbrokers, and executives dress for success. But Hollywood is a little more extreme in images.
To determine your dress code, observe what the top professionals in your chosen field wear. There are different looks for different jobs. Studio producers and agents don’t look like cinematographers or gaffers.
The jobs in Hollywood are creative. The aim is to look expensive while wearing play clothes. It is both costly and casual, yet hip. Fashion is being in step with the times.
Hollywood is almost inconceivably conscious of looks. It is not surprising, given how the industry produces visual imagery.
What to Wear to Your Job Interview
What about traditional wear? When a suit and tie walks onto the set, there are murmurs of “Heads up. There are suits on the set.” It is not a complimentary term. However, typically, many creative executives and most business executives, as well as agents, lawyers, and accountants, are considered “suits.”
You must pay attention to the fashionable attire of the top individuals in your chosen field. But it is also beneficial to develop a look that is all your own. Then, people remember you because you stand out from the crowd. Personal image consultants in the film industry or costume designers can help you find a look that suits you because you certainly would not want your “new” look to backfire.
Hollywood is almost inconceivably conscious of looks. It is not surprising to consider how the industry produces visual imagery. When you attend the interview, you will be judged by what you wear, so it’s best to present yourself carefully and in the way you wish to look. If you apply for a production assistant position, you are not required to wear a suit or tie. Decent shoes, clean jeans, a clean t-shirt, and a flannel are appropriate.
People who work behind the scenes in the film industry do not dress formally, but they can’t look careless or ineffective either. So, wearing down is the style for film crews, but wear down with style.
Learning on the Job | Source
Working at Movie Lab
Growing up, Brian was never really into movies. He was more into soccer and the Boy Scouts. After high school, Brian got a job in the shipping department at Technicolor. He handled packing and shipping. Then, he got another job in the shipping department at Movie Lab.
After working at Movie Lab for a while, Brian heard about an opening for an optical timer assistant. They needed someone to take notes on the timer. He would go to the screening and write down what people said and what happened in the film. He worked with the timers for about three years.
Optical Effect Timing
From there, Brian got a job as a timer. He ensured that the dailies matched the rest of the film. Now, he is timing the optical effects for movies.
There are no optical effect timing classes in schools. According to Brian, you can’t learn how to do it by reading a book. Like most jobs in the movies, you know on the job. However, if you are determined, you can enter this field.
Brian started with an entry-level position. While he worked, he observed what was happening around him and asked questions. This tactic worked for him. It could work for you.
She told the first casting directors she met while on a film that she was available day and night. She didn’t care about the hours.
Working as an Extra | Source
Things to Know
So, you want to know what it is like to work as an extra in a film. Well, there aren’t too many Film-Extra Gurus in this world because it’s not all that glamorous or lucrative. I have worked on a few movies, but it doesn’t make me an expert. However, I can tell you there are some things you should know.
When you attend the casting call, make sure to list your experience, even if it’s not specified. For example, if you have worked on films, include the film title, the number of hours you worked, your training, credits, and so forth.
If you get the callback, make sure you get to know the casting directors/agents. One woman I know, who worked as an extra, made sure to meet with the casting director. She told the first casting directors she met while on a film that she was available day and night. She didn’t care about the hours. They considered that because she had filmed for three straight nights, from 5 p.m. until 7 a.m. She went back and shot eight times after that.
Always be prompt for the casting call. I know for a fact that this matters. One extra told me he learned on his third day filming that if they say 7:30 a.m., they mean 7:30 a.m. He arrived at approximately 8:40, and they had already begun filming. He didn’t get to work on the film until they finished shooting, which can sometimes take all day.
Have the right attitude about it. I never look tired or bored. Make sure you don’t complain. Especially if you were in the shot, but they moved you, so now you aren’t. Always follow directions. If they say “QUIET ON THE SET,” they mean quiet. You get pulled off the set if you don’t follow these rules.
Finally, have fun and smile. It’s supposed to be a fun experience. Plus, you get to meet the stars.
Casting Director
The casting director is another preproduction job that requires a strong understanding of the script and a keen eye for talent. Directors set guidelines for the “types” they are looking for, and the casting director selects actors and brings them to audition for the director, who makes the final selection. The casting director must be familiar with the actors’ abilities and effectively communicate them to the director. In turn, the director must provide feedback to the casting director, so the casting director knows whether they are on the right track.
Casting directors need to be actors’ best friends. If an actor hits it off well with a casting director, it could determine whether they will get a part in a feature film.
The casting director is another preproduction job that requires a strong understanding of the script and a keen eye for talent.
Supervising Extras on Set
Casting directors must have excellent people skills, as they often work with large crowds on a one-time basis. Sometimes, casting directors are looking for temporary workers, such as when they have a big production coming to town and need someone in the office to sit at the desk and make a thousand calls to recruit five hundred extras for a significant scene in a couple of days.
Additionally, casting directors must supervise extras on set, ensuring that background actors remain in their designated holding area and behave appropriately throughout the shoot. When an actor plays an extra, there is a lot of waiting around, and sometimes that waiting can lead to trouble. The casting director must ensure that all extras understand what it takes to be an extra in a film and behave appropriately.
Clean Hands
If you want to build a career in the film industry, it’s essential to understand the business. Study, listen, network, and build bridges. You will get there as long as you follow the rules and keep your hands clean.
Even animal actors walk the red carpet at premieres. | Source
What are Animal Actors?
Animal actors are animals who act in movies, on television and on stage. Animal actors have been around since the inception of the entertainment business.
Jesters, storytellers, troubadours, and acrobats used animals for entertainment as far back as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. Animals performed tricks at court, parties, taverns, and carnivals. Animal acts consisted of dancing bears, acrobatic dogs, and agile monkeys.
“There is that thing about not working with animals and children – I don’t think that’s true. Although you should never work with donkeys.”— Emma Thompson, Academy Award-Winning Actress
Paws for Effect
I helped one of my readers break into the movie business. She started as a production assistant and continued working on several movies. Then she began working as an animal trainer on her days off.
Became a Full-Time Job
She trains animals to be actors in movies. Working with animal actors is not easy because you are dealing with animals all day, and you have to like animals to do the job. I mean animals that are actors, too.
Although she didn’t disclose the earnings of animal actors, she did indicate that they earn a good income without the trainers receiving equity or residuals.
She worked at a place like Paws for Effect, a ranch for animals used in acting. They have offices in Los Angeles, Florida, and Vancouver. Film career folks in Florida and Vancouver can jump at the opportunity.
You can find your way into the film business working for them if you live in these cities. Apply at these offices to gain work experience and build a strong resume before relocating to Los Angeles and settling in Hollywood as an animal trainer for film.
“A black cat crossing your path signifies that the animal is going somewhere.”— Groucho Marx
Animal Actors Agency
These agencies even house reptiles, including snakes, frogs, lizards, and Gila monsters. If you want to see the type of animal actors, go to Paws for Effect and check out the creatures’ headshots.
They represent all species of cats, including felines. I wonder if they got lucky and were discovered like Lana Turner—Hollywood’s famous Top Hat. I can’t forget the movie Cats & Dogs. One of those cats in the movie got discovered while mewing in an alley. A representative from Paws for Effect spotted the beautiful cat in an alley near a local soda fountain. And well, you know the rest of the story.
Acting with an animal takes patience and respect for the animal trainers. | Source
All Types of Animals
Paws for Effect represents a wide range of animals, including lions, tigers, and bears. Oh, my!
Let’s not forget livestock for movies made for episodic shows like Outlander, The Crown, Downton Abby, and Victoria.
The Paws for Effect credits are pretty impressive. Read their credits from well-known movies or television shows and catch their names.
Some notable movies are Ocean’s 11, The Princess Diaries, and Charlie’s Angels. On Television are former and current series like The West Wing, Judging Amy, and C.S.I.
“I love working with horses. People say you shouldn’t work with animals and children; that’s wrong. You must only work with children because you only work eight hours a day and I love working with animals. Animals have an honesty that human beings reach to find in their lives at the best of times.”— Colin Farrell, Actor
Animal Actor Agencies Hiring
Paws for Effect is not the only animal actor agency. There are others you can reach out to and get a job.
Animal Actors International Animal Talent Agency
Hollywood Paws
All Animals Actors International
Top Dog Talent Agency
Animal Talent Time
Le Paws
Urban Paws UK
Arizona Animal Actors
Animals can upstage an actor, but that’s part of working in the industry. | Source
Retired Animal Actors
There are issues with animals that can earn a bad reputation. They don’t work well with the director. The breed is no longer in demand. They are too old to work and can no longer work. My friend, who works at Paws for Effect, says these out-of-work but appreciated animals are free to a home that is willing to care for them.
They are all without fleas, neutered, healthy, and make great pets. You must promise to provide them with a home. The animal is yours, and you have a celebrity living in your home.
“All animals are equal but some animals are more equal than others.”— George Orwell
Survey: Would you like to work with animal actors?
Some animal lovers were asked if they’d like to work with animal actors, and 80% of them said, “Yes. I love animals.” Twenty percent said, “If that is the only way I can break into the business, yes.”
Working With Animals on the Film Set
Andrew Simpson worked on John Wick: Chapters 3 and 4. His interview offers some insight into what it’s like to work with a dog in action, particularly in high-adrenaline films like the John Wick franchise.
Helping Animals
I reached out to Paws for Effect and told them I was writing this article. I was wondering if anyone has any ideas on how a fledgling film worker could apply for a job working with animals.
They didn’t reply after several weeks, so I suspect that they were busy milking the cows and sorting the eggs. But this doesn’t mean you can’t give it a try. If you go to their website, you can email them or call their toll-free number to network or pitch yourself. Good luck, and if you get a job, please let me know how it all turns out, so I can help animals get their big break in the movie business.
“The cat will mew, and dog will have his day.”— William Shakespeare
Sinatra is with Grace Kelley in “High Society.” | Source
Frank Sinatra Albums
What Better way to say “I Love You” Than With a Frank Sinatra Song?
You will agree with me when I say Frank Sinatra is synonymous with love songs. A true fan holds their favorite Sinatra love song to heart.
Though some of his love songs are about love lost, they instill the value of making sure you hang on to the one you love.
“Look to Your Heart” is the third collection album of Frank Sinatra singles and B-sides with long-time collaborator Nelson Riddle. The Frank Sinatra album is an example of those favorite torch songs sung by Sinatra.
A combination of vocal jazz and classic pop, the album was released through Capitol in 1959. However, it was recorded between 1953 and 1955 when Sinatra’s film and television career hit one of its highest points. He won an Academy Award for From Here to Eternity in 1955.
Interestingly, a couple of long-lost songs from the 1955 live television musical version of Our Town, in which Sinatra played the Stage Manager alongside Paul Newman, are included on the album. “I Could Have Told You,” a favorite torch song, eventually became a standard. “Same Old Saturday Night’ reflects his newfound swing and wackiness with “I’m Gonna Live Till I Die,” suggesting his inclination towards living a rather pleasure-seeking, hell-bent lifestyle complete with beatnik bongos.
Sinatra’s album covers have some of his best photo opportunities.
Interestingly, two long-lost songs from the 1955 live television musical version of “Our Town,” in which Sinatra played the Stage Manager alongside Paul Newman, are included on the album.
“I went with a friend to see Frank Sinatra in Las Vegas, in the last year that he was performing. He wasn’t necessarily on top form, but the way he could connect with an audience and the way he communicated through the lyrics was something I hadn’t ever really seen before.”— Ron Howard – Movie Director, Producer, and Actor.
“From Here to Eternity”
Montgomery Clift (Robert E. Lee Prewitt) and Frank Sinatra (Angelo Maggio)
“The big lesson in life, baby, is never be scared of anyone or anything.”— Frank Sinatra
I have to admit that Sinatra’s “My Favorite Valentine” song is very appropriate for today. A perfect way to say “I love you”—a gift for any Sinatra fan.
Best of Frank Sinatra Songs
After listening to the album a couple of times, I noticed the diverse arrangement of songs. None fit together, but each song is a sensual pleasure in itself. One can’t help but appreciate Sinatra’s versatility as a singer, with songs ranging from the uplifting and rhythmic “Same Old Saturday Night” to the whimsical and delicate “Fairy Tale.” The fact that the collection reached the Top Ten means the album became available as a reissued compact disc, alongside the Capitol Years disc box set. All tracks are included in the box set The Complete Capitol Singles Collection.
With that said, I have to admit the “My Favorite Valentine” song by Sinatra is appropriate for today. A perfect way to say “I love you” — a gift for any Sinatra fan.
Summer Wind
“Frank Sinatra – My Way”
“Strangers in the Night” was released by Frank Sinatra on Reprise Records in 1966, continuing his celebration of his comeback to the #1 spot on the pop album charts, which began in the middle of the 1960s.
It is the last album he will produce with long-serving arranger and conductor Nelson Riddle.
Jonathan Schwartz of WNEW wrote this about Nelsen Riddle (I edited his quote for clarity):
“Billie Holiday, Frank Sinatra, Louis Armstrong, and Nelson Riddle stand, in my judgment, at the spine of American popular music. Nelson’s voice, like the others, changed our thinking, pushed us forward, and addressed us with startling originality. The scope of his talent dwarfs all other arrangers. He obviously took great pleasure in delegating authority to the oboe, flute, bass trombone, muted trumpet, organ, bassoon, and vibraphone while remaining in full control of his administration. He is overseeing without overstating the strings. His own private melodies whisper respectfully under the Gershwin, Kern, or Rodgers on the table. He sings out and out with the passion that informs every bar of every arrangement. All these things are actively combined in the immense body of work that stands as one of the great achievements in American arts. To find that Nelson, personally, is a droll, tender, reclusive, and richly intelligent fellow adds a special kind of luster to my fondness for him, devotion to him. The book you are holding is about music. There is no more qualified author available…Anywhere.”
“Strangers in the Night” knocked the Beatles off the charts. The rendition made it to #1 on the pop singles charts, and “Summer Wind” gradually developed into a timeless classic, achieving a more permanent commercial success than its forerunner.
“Frank Sinatra Greatest Hits”
“Strangers in the Night” blends popular Sinatra favorites like “Downtown” and “Call Me.”
Then show tunes like “On a Clear Day (You Can See Forever)” and with standards, too, like “My Baby Just Cares for Me” and “The Most Beautiful Girl in the World.”
“Strangers in the Night” knocked the Beatles off the charts. The rendition reached #1 on the pop singles charts, and “Summer Wind” gradually evolved into a timeless classic, achieving a more enduring commercial success than its forerunner. The song was heard on television commercials and played while the credits rolled for the movie The Pope of Greenwich Village.
The album received two Grammys for Sinatra, including Best Male Vocal and Best Record of the Year. The album became certified platinum with 1 million copies sold in the U.S. alone.
Riddle used horns, strings, and an organ, making a swinging rhythm while Sinatra sings in a relaxed mood, feeling confident and jazzy, delivering a sensational gust of breathtaking vocals. The album appealed to Sinatra’s faithful fans and attracted pop radio.
Sinatra’s trademark trilby is a narrow-brimmed hat resembling a fedora.
Frank Sinatra – “Come Fly With Me”
Sonny Burke produced the 1966 album and released it through Reprise Records with Frank Sinatra, working once again with Nelson Riddle as the arranger and conductor.
Burke was best known as the musical director of Reprise Records and as the producer of many Frank Sinatra albums. He graduated from Duke University in 1937. While at Duke University, Burke formed a big jazz band called the Duke Ambassadors. He led the group until he graduated.
Burke became a bandleader in New York’s big bands in the 1930s and 1940s. During the 1940s and 1950s, he worked as an arranger for bands like Charlie Spivak and Jimmy Dorsey.
Burke teamed up with Peggy Lee and wrote the songs for Disney’s Lady and the Tramp. He even wrote songs with John Elliot for Disney’s Toot, Whistle, Plunk, and Boom, which won the 1953 Oscar for Best Short Animated Feature.
Reaching for the Moon
“Moonlight Sinatra” was thought of as a minor recording, yet many fans enjoyed listening to the Sinatra and Riddle collaboration. Half of his recorded songs connect with Bing Crosby, whom Sinatra idolized, thus turning the album into a casual tribute.
Frank Sinatra Album
The album’s title refers to “Moonlight Sonata” by Ludwig Van Beethoven.
In Moonlight Sinatra, each song’s prevailing theme is the Moon, a perfect album to make love with Frank Sinatra. The album’s title refers to “Moonlight Sonata” by Ludwig van Beethoven. Riddle drives the music with lush, effervescent arrangements, creating a romantic tone and elegant theme, with every song having the word “mo”n” in its title.
Although the concept is not strong enough to qualify as a concept album, the title is apt. Riddle creates a succession of charts that offer a warm and pleasant evening, including various moods and tones. He forms soft Latin ballads, playing rhythms, while Sinatra gently sings a perfect blend, stretching each lyric with light touches.
Moonlight Sinatra is considered a minor recording, yet many fans delight in the collaboration between Sinatra and Riddon. Half of the recorded songs are associated with Bing Crosby, whom Sinatra idolized, making the album a casual tribute.
Sinatra and Riddle chose some unfamiliar songs, such as “Reaching for the Moon” by Irving Berlin, accompanied by a string bass. Burke includes “The Moon Got in My Eye”,” Oh, You Crazy Moo”, and the endless “Moonlight Becomes You”. A unique rendition of Tchaikovsky’s “Moon Lo” uses Sinatra’s soft touch. Yet, the instrumentals are strong with refreshing strings. Moonlight Sinatra is worth owning for any Sinatra fan and is accessible through Complete Reprise Studio Recordings.
Making Love with Frank Sinatra
Making love as you and your partner listen to Sinatra croon in the background inflames your passion. These Frank Sinatra albums are on your playlist, with the lights turned down. Relax with someone, and you will see what I mean.
Brad Pitt stood alongside the supporters of rebuilding after the hurricane.
Helping People of New Orleans
Brad Pitt initiated a housing project in the Lower Ninth Ward of New Orleans following the devastating Hurricane Katrina. Pitt’s pet project, “Make It Right Foundation,” is an example of helping families rebuild their homes.
Celebrity home designer and “Holmes on Homes” TV personality Mike Holmes worked with Pitt on the project. Holmes promotes green living, so working with Pitt and Make It Right was perfect for both.
Although years have passed, the project remains, and the foundation is no longer as prominent as it was during the construction of the homes. The results are as endearing and heartfelt today as when the people were still recovering from Katrina.
Although some people he helped are biting the hand that feeds him, his program remains as strong as ever.
Pitt Talks with Ellen About His Foundation
“I’ll tell you, every time I drive over the Claiborne bridge, no matter what frustration I might be dealing with at the moment, I get this well of pride when I see this little oasis of color and the solar panels.”— Brad Pitt, Country Living Magazine.
Pitt designed and built homes like this one for the devastated area.
Building Homes
Holmes and Pitt agreed on building homes that would not burn down, be blown down, or go down under any circumstances. The Once Upon a Time… in Hollywoodstar indicated that building such a home is not that difficult.
Following the devastation caused by Katrina in New Orleans in August 2005, building homes that take into account environmental conditions is a blessing. New Orleans’ Lower Ninth Ward experienced devastation and ruin when the levees broke during Hurricane Katrina.
“Make It Right Foundation” joined Holmes in building homes to withstand a catastrophe like Katrina, thereby rebuilding the area devastated by the hurricane.
The rebuilding of New Orleans, Lower Ninth Ward, included homes like this one.
Brad Pitt Builds 150 Homes
Pitt and Holmes built 150 homes, each designed to prevent future catastrophes. To some, that may seem impossible, but they achieved it to raise the homes three feet above ground level. They withstand the possibility of being blown down by a hurricane.
Looking at the homes in the pictures, you can see how they stand on the ground, stronger and rooted.
Pitt and Holmes designed 150 homes like this one for the homeless people after Katrina in the summer of 2005.
Solar Panels
Of course, solar panels play a significant part in the project, and other environmentally friendly factors include homes capturing rainwater for reuse in gardening and toilets.
Another designed home orchestrated by Pitt and Holmes.
No Longer Worried or Stressed
The locals appreciate rebuilding their homes, knowing they will withstand environmental catastrophes, and acknowledging that such incidents have historically occurred. The worry and stress caused by the possibility of losing their homes during the next hurricane no longer exist.
In New Orleans, Pitt and Holmes set positive examples for others to follow, providing hope and a brighter future for the region.
Make It Right Helps the Unfortunate
Today, the “Make It Right Foundation” believes that everyone has the right to live in a high-quality, healthy home that enhances the natural environment. Sadly, some are less fortunate and need assistance to get started and build a stable home.
The organization assists those in need. They believe the program fully engages the communities in defining their own needs and has a leading role in designing appropriate ways to meet those needs.
The foundation supports any design that can help improve the quality of affordable housing and enhance other living conditions of its occupants. The results are playing a pivotal role in creating vibrant, sustainable communities. The purpose is to build safe homes and help people around the world live in healthy cities. The fact that it offers affordable, high-quality, and environmentally sustainable homes is all the better.
Cradle to Cradle Homes
One of the programs the foundation supports is “Cradle to Cradle Homes.” The program is still unique, but hopefully, that will change, and it will become more widespread.
Architect William McDonough and chemist Dr. Michael Braungart apply specific criteria to develop communities. They use materials that are both biological and technically safe, renewable, and focused on social fairness and human dignity.
Hollywood entertained the idea of drinking alcoholic drinks during prohibition. | Source
Cocktails in Film
Celebrating special times is what we care about the most. When something comes up faster than we care to acknowledge, movies or books like Water for Elephants capture yesteryear spirits and today.
The movies overflow with retro radiance and fascination. In Water for Elephants, Robert Pattinson and Reese Witherspoon bring us back to the days of speakeasies and unforbidden love.
Enthralled like an interloper, you witness the scene where August and Marlena invite Jacob for an evening of cocktails and elegance. The undercurrents portray the movie sequence as relatively private and intimate because of the prohibition. The scene captures the essence of the glamour of the 1930s and the spirit of sharing a moment of entertainment.
Other Hollywood films have captured the same ambiance of the prohibition era. You might be familiar with them as well. Let’s explore the glamour of cocktails in prohibition-era films like Some Like It Hot, The Untouchables, and The Roaring Twenties, with drinks including the Deauville, Manhattan, Whiskey Sour, and Hurricane.
“Why the hell shouldn’t I run away with the circus?”— Sara Gruen
Whiskey Sour
One of my favorite scenes in The Roaring Twenties is when naïve Eddie (James Cagney) orders milk at a speakeasy. A counterpart would have ordered the classic Whiskey Sour. The Whiskey Sour has been around since the late 1800s and remains popular even today. If you’re so inclined, you can add a dash of egg white to the mix to turn it into a Boston Sour.
· 45ml Bourbon whiskey
· 30ml fresh lemon juice
· 15ml Gomme syrup
· Orange slice (garnish)
· Maraschino cherry (garnish)
Pour whiskey, lemon juice, and Gomme syrup into a shaker with ice. Shake well, and then strain into an old-fashioned glass. Garnish with a maraschino cherry and an orange slice, and serve on the rocks.
“I think you’re a pretty decent guy. I like to talk to decent guys. They’re hard to find.”— Panama Smith in “The Roaring Twenties”
Manhattan
In one of my favorite Billy Wilder films, Some Like It Hot, Marilyn Monroe’s character, Sugar Cane, makes Manhattans in a hot water bottle. She’s so natural in the scene. I can’t help but believe it. Luckily, we have cocktail shakers and swizzle sticks, so we don’t need the hot water bottle.
· 50ml whiskey
· 20ml sweet red vermouth
· Dash Angostura bitters
· Maraschino cherry (garnish)
Stir whiskey, vermouth, and bitters over ice and then pour strained into a cocktail glass. Garnish with a maraschino cherry.
Some Like It Hot
“It’s the story of my life. I always get the fuzzy end of the lollipop.”— Sugar in “Some Like Hot”
The Deauville
There are no movies set in Deauville. Created in New Orleans in the 1930s, The Deauville is a classic brandy sour with a colorful fruit bouquet served straight up.
· 25ml brandy
· 25ml applejack or Calvados
· 25ml triple sec
· 25ml fresh lemon juice
Pour the ingredients into a shaker with ice, shake well, and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
What Would You Like to Drink?
Gin Fizz
Brian De Palma captured the prohibition era and the mafia’s heyday brilliantly as we watch Al Capone (Robert De Niro) and some of his cohorts in The Untouchables. I am sure the mob might have thrown back a Gin Fizz or two. The best known of all the “Fizz” type cocktails, this still-popular creation has been a hit since the 20th century.
· 50ml gin
· Juice of half a lemon
· 10ml Gomme syrup
· Soda water
Pour gin, lemon juice, and Gomme syrup over ice and shake—strain into a highball glass and top with soda water. Serve on the rocks.
“People are gonna drink – you know that I know that, we all know that, and all I do is act on that. And all this talk of bootlegging – what is bootlegging? On a boat, it’s bootlegging. On Lake Shore Drive, it’s hospitality. I’m a businessman!”— Alphonse Capone, “The Untouchables”
Hurricane
No movie refers to the Hurricane, which is a New Orleans staple. The Hurricane originated as a way to dispose of unsold rum in the 1930s and 1940s. Eventually, the cocktail became popular with sailors and remains a bestseller in the French Quarter today.
· 15ml dark rum
· 15ml white rum
· Passion fruit syrup
· Lime juice
Shake the ingredients with ice, then pour into a cocktail or tulip-shaped glass. Serve on the rocks.
“In the spring of 1988, I returned to New Orleans, and as soon as I smelled the air, I knew I was home. It was rich, almost sweet, like the scent of jasmine and roses around our old courtyard. I walked the streets, savoring that long lost perfume.”— Anne Rice, “Interview with the Vampire”
Cocktail Party
For any special occasion, you might want to contemplate throwing a Prohibition Party. If not for Thanksgiving or Christmas, you might want to consider New Year’s Eve. You can throw one at any time of the year.
You have the recipes, and all you have to do is get the ingredients and shake or stir them into cocktails.
Growing up in a family with a single mom and two siblings allowed me to be glued to the television every Saturday morning and watch cartoons.
The cartoons helped me forget all the troubles and hardships we endured. It allowed me to escape and think about how I could make the world a better place for my family if only I, too, could be a superhero.
The superhero cartoons were the best at inspiring me because they encapsulated the idea of confronting and solving your problems. To this day, I follow that concept. I get a kick out of tackling issues and throwing them in jail as I head back to my office. In this day and age, I sometimes have to be a superhero.
“In the midst of the vagaries of life, they provide us a trip to the land of goodness and fairies, of imaginations and possibilities.
A childhood that wasn’t spent watching cartoons or reading comic strips, no wonder, seems too dull to imagine.”— Sanhita Baruah
Cartoons to Watch
I don’t know when cartoons became popular. They appeared on the television each Saturday morning. They were my favorite because I was mesmerized by Bugs Bunny, The Road Runner, Batman, Daffy the Duck, and Superman.
Watching cartoons on Saturday mornings gave my mother time to herself. They entertained all three of us — me, my brother, and my sister — while my mother cherished her Saturday ritual of pampering herself and preparing for the week ahead. She worked hard and deserved all the luxury she could muster in those invigorating morning rituals.
Not that my home was dysfunctional. I wanted my mother to be happy because she worked extremely hard, raising three kids on her own. I think most of the time, she was smiling, but she had so much to do for us. She was my superhero.
Batman for Kids
The history of cartoons teaches kids that they can watch comic book characters come to life on television or on a device. Stories like the Dark Knight ally with Red Tornado, Green Arrow, Aquaman, Plastic Man, Blue Beetle, Wildcat, Deadman, Bronze Tiger, and Atom, and have them take on many evildoers, showing them how to solve problems.
Kids watch the annoying hoodlums running as mad and crazy scientists. They see the no good, off the wall, intergalactic crooks, from world power, crazed dictators to skidding teenagers. They learn that taking responsibility for others means helping them confront their problems.
“Grown-ups’ could learn a lesson from watching cartoons.”— James Jean-Pierre
Treasures
I was satisfied watching cartoons every Saturday. If I felt unsatisfied, I kept watching until Bugs Bunny or the Road Runner saved me. Based on my childhood memories of watching morning cartoons, I checked out these “old” treasures through Warner Bros. archives, such as Looney Tunes. I can still get my hands on another set of Saturday morning cartoons at Amazon Prime.
A cartoon hero is the only way to capture the good old days of cartoons. The darker ones are more of escapism with a lesson in how not to behave than the silly Bugs Bunny and goofy Road Runner.
Mel Blanc is a hero because of what he could do with his voice for all the Looney Tunes, “the Warner Brothers cartoons, to be the voice of Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Elmer Fudd, Porky Pig.”— Nicolas Cage
Cartoons Versus Comics
Perhaps, you were one of the millions of kids watching cartoons of the 60s and remember the Saturday mornings with Batman, superheroes, or Looney Tunes.
You need to share them with your kids. Not only are they pure entertainment, but they are also much safer to watch than some of today’s television programs.
You set an example of telling your friends that your kids watch old cartoons. Hooking up with the superheroes on Saturday mornings, watching the popular and well-liked comics, is not just a pastime — it is a passion and escapism.
Cartoons YouTube
Watching episode after episode of each series, I know you will laugh yourself silly, but make sure you share them with your kids. You might even discover some cartoons you haven’t seen before, like Batman: The Animated Series, Volume One.
YouTube offers tons of these cartoons, so grab your device, put on your headphones, and start the entertainment.
Batman in Action
Amazon Prime
What makes it easy for parents and kids is that Amazon Prime offers endless chances to view good, old cartoons. If you are a Prime member, they are available at no charge, except for your Prime membership. They are not very long, so your kids are not wasting their whole Saturday morning, like I did, watching the classics.
Be warned. The cartoons are addictive because there are so many stories available, and they’re so much fun to watch. They are not as cheesy nor as suspenseful as the movies with the same characters. The characters are dark with a foreboding soundtrack. The hilarious cartoons are more entertaining than the film because they feature slapstick humor suitable for kids.
