PODCAST Interview: Screenwriter Lindsay Waite (AMIGAS)

Interview with Filmmaker Jay Park (D.O.V.)

Synopsis:

The Great Basin! Or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Desert is a film, book and print project that addresses climate change, the severe drought in the Western United States, gun culture, the military’s use of the basin and range of Nevada for atomic testing, cultural stereotypes, my own personal history, and my experiences in this mostly remote area. In the 15 minute short film I am creating complex collages of my still and motion captures made in Nevada with appropriated short clips from Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom, recent weather footage, The Lone Ranger, as well as John Wayne’s and other historic films, cartoons, and many other cultural artifacts, in order to speak to the place and its significance.

Review by Andie Karvelis

Filmmaker Eric Weeks takes you on a unique journey centering around his experience in the remote regions of the Western United States.

What intrigued me most about this film was the creative way Weeks used existing footage from the past to bring attention to present day issues. Climate change, the drought and the Nevada military Atomic testing areas to name a few.

You have super quick cuts of footage and dialogue ranging from the local news to The Lone Ranger and even some Davey & Goliath thrown in for good measure. It’s a creative way to drive your point home about these important issues. The moments of overlapping audio and repeating footage leaves you feeling helpless and confused, but I think that is exactly what you’re supposed to feel. Apathy won’t bring about change, we have to feel in order to act. .

Project Links

•  Website

Directed by Eric Weeks

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Synopsis:

What is PRIDE? How it came about in Slovakia? Was the 2010 PRIDE parade in Bratislava the first one in Slovakia? Activists from the 2010 PRIDE team as well as Hana Fabry, Jaroslav Gyurik, which where present in queer activism in the early 90s talk about important events which led to the creation of the first PRIDE parade in Slovakia.

Review by Parker Jesse Chase

“First Slovak Pride” is a poignant and inspiring documentary capturing a pivotal historical moment, shedding light on the long road this LGBTQ+ community travels towards true equality and acceptance. Roman Stráñai masterfully guides us through the journey of the first creation of Slovak Pride, providing an intimate glimpse into the struggles, triumphs, and heartfelt experiences of individuals fighting for their right to be seen, heard, and celebrated.

Set against the backdrop starting in the early 90s, the film follows the remarkable journey of LGBTQ+ activists as they embark on the groundbreaking mission to establish a safe haven for public expressions of homosexuality and the forging of connections among like-minded souls. Through personal accounts and powerful imagery, the film delves into the complex and emotional process of coming out, emphasizing the importance of fostering understanding and compassion within a society who has long suppressed these voices.

The documentary’s standout moment is when two brides, adorned in rainbow veils, leave a trail of hope and symbolism through the rainy streets of Slovakia. As raindrops fall, a radiant rainbow emerges in a fountain – a timeless memory that encapsulates both the struggles and the inherent beauty of the LGBTQ+ community’s fight for visibility.

“First Slovak Pride” doesn’t shy away from the challenges faced by the activists. The narrative paints a vivid picture of the difficulties they encountered in their bid to organize the Pride March, including the threat of extremist opposition and the eventual cancellation of the first event held. However, the film expertly shifts the focus to the silver linings, highlighting the accidental formation of a rainbow-flag-adorned human chain across a bridge, a testament to the resilience and unity of those pushing for change.

As the years progress, the documentary artfully illustrates the evolution of Slovak Pride from a human rights campaign to a vibrant week-long celebration. Stráñai takes us through the transformation, demonstrating that while progress is being made, the fight for equality is an ongoing battle, a marathon rather than a sprint.

Through compelling storytelling and a well-crafted narrative, “First Slovak Pride” emphasizes the importance of activism and community-building. It serves as a reminder even in the face of adversity, individuals can come together to challenge societal norms, and gradually transform a nation’s perspective. The film underscores the significance of pride, not just as a colorful spectacle, but as a powerful force for social change and acceptance.

Roman Stráñai’s direction shines as he captures the emotional highs and lows of this inspiring journey. With an eye for detail, he guides the audience through the streets of Slovakia, effectively translating the atmosphere and emotions of the era onto the screen. The documentary’s culmination, an awe-inspiring shot of the expanding crowd overlooking the country, leaves a lasting impact, symbolizing the triumph of unity and the emergence of a brighter future.

“First Slovak Pride” is an extraordinary cinematic exploration of a crucial turning point in Slovak LGBTQ+ history. Through Stráñai’s lens, the film honors the bravery of those who dared to demand equality, celebrate diversity, and pave the way for a more inclusive society. This documentary is a testament to the indomitable human spirit, an eloquent call to action, and a vibrant tapestry of hope, resilience, and the unbreakable bonds of community.

Project Links

•  Website

Directed by Roman Stráňai

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Synopsis:

An early morning bicycle ride becomes a magical celebration of Today.

Project Links

•  Website
•  Instagram

Review by Parker Jesse Chase

Best Day! is a delightful stop-motion animation embodying the spirit of positivity and seizing the day. Directed and animated by Woody Yocum, this film takes us on a whimsical journey where the main character whose warmth and vibrancy solidify the brightness of the day.

The artistry in Best Day! truly stands out, with a mix of warm and cool colors that beautifully capture the contrast between the main character’s exuberance and the city’s developed ambiance. The use of tissue paper to craft the characters adds a charming and delicate touch to the overall visual experience.

The story centers around our main character, who embarks on a bike ride to a destination on the horizon, accompanied by a canine companion nestled in a basket. The film encourages its audience to shed worries and embrace the moment beneath the warm embrace of the sun. Let the wind blow through ones hair. Best Day! serves as a gentle reminder to be present, to face anxieties head-on, and to focus on cultivating positive thoughts, ultimately bringing the best day of one’s life to fruition.

Klaus Ebert’s composed music elevates the film’s dreamlike happiness, further enhancing the sense of freedom felt when watching our main character embrace life like a soaring bird. The spirit of the film is infectious, leaving the audience feeling uplifted and motivated to go about living their best day ever.

Overall, Best Day! is a heartwarming film encouraging its younger audiences to let their spirits soar, basking in the joy of living in the moment and embracing the possibilities that lie ahead. Woody Yocum’s direction, combined with Klaus Ebert’s music and the vocal talents of Cathy Kawasaki and Han Mi, delivers a truly enchanting experience that will leave you with a lasting impression of hope and happiness. So, sit back, relax, and set forth to have the best day ever!

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Synopsis:

A touching and uplifting mother-daughter journey through time. You experience how love overcomes suffering and builds lasting memories that give meaning to life and strengthen the soul.

Review by Andie Karvelis

Laura Isabel Figueroa invites you to celebrate the beauty of family with this heartfelt tribute to her mother, Dominga. The bond between mother and daughter is a special one and this film captures the emotion and essence of that bond.

From the start, you’re drawn into this film by the melodious voice of the narrator. Not to be presumptuous but I’m going to say the voice belongs to Laura, who wrote and starred in the film. There was something so lovely about how she described her mom. It made you feel welcome, like you knew Laura and Dominga personally and were a part of their family.

Director of Photography, Cecilia Memor did a sensational job with the cinematography. The clever way we visited Laura’s past memories using black and white was sensational. You can clearly see the bond between mother and daughter and the love they shared, thanks to director Emanuel Loarca. The interactions between Laura and her mother, portrayed by Blanca Araceli Soto, were so joyful that you couldn’t help but smile.

The film’s score compliments this journey of remembrance and reminds us that even when our loved ones have departed, they live on in our hearts and memories.

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Submit your Novel for Feedback and/or Performance Video:

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Submit your Short Story for Performance Video:

Short Story Video Performance Readings

Get FULL FEEDBACK on either the 1st chapter or entire novel book from our committee of Professional Writers, and Writing Consultants. Get your novel performed by a professional actor at the festival.

NEW OPTION: Or, just submit for an actor performance reading transcript of your novel (any 5 pages of your book). Great way to promote the sales of your book if you’re already published. (see examples on the video playlist below)

SUBMIT your novel now (both your 1st chapter or full novel accepted) To be eligible for our Writing Festival Events. Submissions take 3-5 weeks for evaluation,

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A great way to get your words out there, obtain the Agent you’re looking for or just get your story seen by more people. If you win, your story will be seen by 100,000s of people when it’s read online using a top professional actor. It’s a rush you’ll never experience in your life seeing it come to life that way.

ALL SUBMITTED STORIES GET FULL FEEDBACK – The goal of the Novel Writing Festival is to help everyone involved grow as an artist, so we will offer some kind of constructive criticism whether or not we accept your entry for the formal festival.

Synopsis:

The name of this film is Wild Grass, just like the fate of Chinese Americans.In 2004, the Philadelphia government promulgated the curfew law, mainly restricting the restaurants opened in residential areas to stop operating before 11 pm. In the following 14 years, 96% of the tickets issued by the police station were given to Chinese restaurants. This racially discriminatory law enforcement case was sued by the Chinese restaurant owner against the city government of Philadelphia in 2017. In 2018, the Federal Supreme Court announced that the Chinese restaurant won the case. Thus ending the 15-year discriminatory bill.

There is a side of the United States that many people don’t like to dwell on, but after watching the film THE WEEDS, the shocking reality sets in to what the media and government are doing to Chinese Americans. In a story of mass discrimination for a marginalized community, the documentary captures and retains the attention of the viewer from beginning to end in a way that opens the eyes to those who don’t live in big cities such as Philadelphia. 

The director Gaofeng Tian tells a story that tugs at the heartstrings while opening the mind to a community that all decent people should stand behind against the discrimination of Chinese American businesses. The gripping opening begins with Chinese restaurant owners in Philadelphia stating what led to a discriminatory law and ends with them uniting to overturn the law after years of suffering. 

The themes depicted in THE WEEDS are ones everyone could relate to in this contentious time of a distrust of the media and government. Tian proves this claim through the use of news clips and a curfew law that blamed Chinese businesses for getting robbed. The accusation that the Philadelphia government created hatred, which led to violence is spot on as the film delves into how government propaganda can hurt innocent citizens under the guise of safety. It took people calling for unity within the Chinese American community and reaching out to other minority groups to get the unconstitutional Curfew Law overturned through protests and lawsuits. This shows the side of the United States that still brings hope, that through unity the people are still in charge and can remove corrupt pieces of legislation. 

This film can also be used as a promotional film to elect David Oh as Philadelphia Mayor in 2024 as he shows how much he cares for his community. Oh served as the film expert on not only the law, but the way Chinese businesses operate to show that he cares for his community. 

THE WEEDS is multifaceted and is a film everyone should see as it evokes powerful emotions in an eye-opening manner. The documentary short brings shock, tears and triumphant as the story goes through every moment that the Chinese restaurant owners in Philadelphia endured for over a decade before ending in hope with a beautiful rendition of Amazing Grace playing in the background as victory is won.

By,

Victoria Angelique

Directed by GAOFENG TIAN

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Synopsis:

On September 13th, 2024, in the heart of Washington, DC—Pershing Square—a colossal tribute in classic sculpture will be revealed. The National World War I Memorial honors the courageous souls who sacrificed their lives in the name of the United States during the Great War. Master Sculptor Sabin Howard is creating a breathtaking tableau entitled “A Soldier’s Journey”” which features 38 larger-than-life figures and brings to life the essence of the war. The sculptural relief measures 58 feet long and 10 feet high.

Review by Andie Karvelis:

This documentary not only takes you behind the scenes of making a historic sculpture but an inside look into the world of being married to an artist. Yet, as I sit pondering over that description, I realize it doesn’t quite describe the impact of this film and all it entails.

Within the first few moments we meet Sabin Howard, an incredibly talented artist and Traci L. Slatton, a bestselling author and also Sabin’s wife. Immediately you’re drawn to their infectious humor and genuine personalities. You can’t help but feel like you’ve known them for years.

This was filmed over time and it kept this lovely intimate feel, like you were a fly on the wall watching this family support and sacrifice for an incredible piece of art. When I say an incredible piece of art, I’m talking about a 10 foot high and 58 foot long memorial to WWI called “A Soldier’s Journey”. It’s massive!

Watching everything that went into creating this sculpture was almost surreal. The endless hours of work that Sabin and his team put into this was incredible, especially during the height of the Coronavirus pandemic. The composition of the piece is visually striking and very emotional. It won’t be installed until 2024, but when it is unveiled to the public it will definitely be breathtaking.

I have to take a moment here to commend Traci, who I kind of want to dub “Wonder Woman”. Not only was she the project manager for Sabin’s “A Soldier’s Journey” she is an accomplished novelist, a Mom, the director of this film and she edited it as well. If you have ever edited anything, you know just how hard that is.

This is a beautiful film that takes you behind the scenes in making “A Soldier’s Journey” and gives you an insider’s look into how two very successful artists support each other’s dreams.

Directed by

Traci L Slatton

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Synopsis:

When Flo turns up at his farm, Jesse believes he’s the one in charge. As they walk through the countryside Jesse tries to impress Flo with stories of UFOs and disappearing cows. A brush with death at an abandoned house reveals that Flo has a hidden strength. Despite his bravado, Jesse is not ready to make the leap into adult love but Flo has the courage to face the pain and struggle of life. She leads him towards a moment or illumination but the consequences are terrifying, traumatic and possibly tragic.

Review by Andie Karvelis

When Jessie meets Florence and tries to impress her with creepy UFO stories he gets a lot more than he bargained for.

Andrew Sully and Jo Tabit have created a suspenseful, supernatural thriller that leaves you picking your jaw up off the floor. Set in rural New South Wales, Australia, the Director of Photography, Rob Hill, does an amazing job enchanting you with the beauty of the landscape.

You are immediately thrust into a deceptively sweet meeting between Jessie, portrayed by Jeremy Blewitt and Florence, portrayed by Martha Morgan. The instant chemistry between them is undeniable and it’s a joy to watch them banter back and forth. These two actors did such a sensational job, very personable and believable in their roles. Andrew Sully did a great job in directing because you get so caught up in them you don’t realize there is something seriously wrong until about half way through.

There were very little special effects in this which was great because the ones they did have, packed a punch! I don’t know if it was makeup artist Jasmine Hayward who was responsible for them but the realism was uncanny. ( I don’t want to spoil anything for you )

When you reach the twist within this film, I for one, definitely did not see it coming. I find myself left with burning questions and a secret hope there will be a “The Dam – Part 2” that answers them.

Directed by

Andrew Sully

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