Thursday, July 26, 2012

THE INS AND OUTS OF FILM FINANCING

www.drmelcaudle.blogspot.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Update on KSK Casting
All About Call Backs
ACTOR CASTING BINDER FOR OLTP FOR FUTURE PROJECTS
FAVORITE COMMENTS FROM KSK MEMBERS

AND THE FEATURED ARTICLE
The Ins and Outs of Film Financing
JULY 29, 2012

STAGE 3 OF THE CALL BACK PROCESS HAS BEEN COMPLETED!


Everyone awaits the final selection for the new cast for THE KEYSTROKE KILLER!
After many weeks of anticipation by actors and total exhaustion by the KSK Casting Team the casting department for The Keystroke Killer is elated to announce that Stage 3 of the casting process is completed.  Less than twenty actors who received their official notifications through the Facebook site THE KEYSTROKE KILLER FAN SITE, did not respond.  With all things considered attrition ratio is very small.  

The Keystroke Killer casting department reviewed more than 4,200 individual auditions over a three month period during Stage 1 of the casting process.  The deadline to submit the auditions was May 30, 2012.  Stage 2 is described by Dr. Melissa Caudle, producer/screenwriter/creator, as "The most fun I have ever had."  When I asked her why, she said, "I really got to develop a clear understanding of the importance of actors and their unique set of skills impacts my writing." The team, consisting of the Executive Producer, Producers, Screenwriter and Creator, Associate Producer, and the Casting Director spent another two months deciding on the final call back list during this stage.

Stage 3 only took one week, but wasn't without its drama according to Robbyn Cook Stroud, Associate Producer for the project and Dr. Caudle's right-hand and trusted confident.  "At times it was like pulling teeth that had been cemented in with super glue from outer space," Stroud said.  "I literally had to keep reminding actors we needed their head shots and acting resumes as well as their official contact information in order for them to continue the process.  We now are moving into Stage 4 which isn't for the entire Facebook community of KSK Membership."

"Now, the fun really begins,"  Mark Freehelm, Executive Producer, stated.  "I finally get to meet all of these fabulous actors face-to-face in Stage Four."  Both Caudle and Sroud agree with Freehelm as they both have maintained constant communication with the KSK Membership on Facebook.  During Stage 4, all of the call backs for the face-to-face auditions take place.  Those actors who cannot participate in the face-to-face call backs, have the option of a Skype Group Audition.  


Dr. Mel and Robby works hard on helping the KSK Casting Team


During Stage 5, the KSK Casting Team, will select the final cast for THE KEYSTROKE KILLER.   Second rounds of auditions will only take place if they do not find a cast member for a particular role.  "I don't think this will happen,"  Dr. Caudle states.  "In every role we have multiple actors who could walk on set today and fill that role.  The hard part will be selecting each role from the cream of the crop and not having to scrap the bottom of the barrel."  Frankly speaking, the talent that auditioned are not only experience actors, but actors who can and will bring it to the table.  

Social parties consisting of KSK group members have already taken place in Los Angeles and New Orleans.  Caudle attended the event in New Orleans.  Now it is time for another KSK party.  This time, both Stroud and Caudle will be in Los Angeles and will attend that one.  "We're going to need it," says Dr. Caudle.  "After this six months, we deserve one night out."

IT'S CALL BACK TIME FOR KSK
By Dr. Melissa Caudle


Dr. Mel's Mom and her mother discover that the
abutment part of the implant malfunctioned.
What a week, and a quick week.  Lots of things happened personally and in my production company.  I really just need to take a deep breath and decide where to start.  By now, everyone knows the fiasco of my tooth implant.  Well, it was good news, bad news.  On Monday night, the temporary crown fell out.  I almost chocked to death on it and in in the process chipped off the lower molar.  Whew.  My mother said, "Mel, you really take Murphy's law seriously."  Maybe she's right.  I do - "What can go wrong does go wrong," especially when it comes to my tooth implant.  Just when she had me believing in Murphy's law the unexpected happened.  While I was at the dentist getting the molar that I cracked the night before fixed and replacing the temporary crown on the tooth where the implant is, a special delivery arrived at the office - it was the abutment and the new tooth for my implant.  Something finally went my way and I overcame Murphy.  Damn that Murphy!


As far as production goes, I got about four days behind because of my tooth implant and have done nothing but play catch up.  But thanks to a fabulous KSK team we are back on schedule.  And, a big double thank you to Robby, as she arrived back safely from Florida.  In fact, she has packed her bags and over the next several days has moved in with me since we are working nearly 19 hours a day to finalize the call back audition process and groupings for Los Angeles.  We have spent more than a total of 148 hours on finalizing the call back list alone and it took 6 complete days to send out all of the official call backs.  What a job.

Trace and Tele doing the Happy Dance.
CAUDLE CASTING CHAOS THEORY

The most difficult par,t and slowest part I might add, is behind us!  Now that is worth a Tele, the unofficial KSK Mascot Dog, a Happy Dance for sure.  From here on out, casting and call backs will move pretty fast, comparatively speaking, what we all have been through.  That is if everyone follows the directions and does exactly what each Email says to do exactly.  It really will work out and and you won't be left in limbo.  If I stopped and explained every step of this process, I would have another book written.  Now that's an idea for the book author in me.  So, this is what to expect for the call back process.

First, if you haven't figured it out by now, I am a very methodical and systematic Type A personality.  I truly believe in "All things in divine order."  While in graduate school, working on my PhD in statistical research, my professors drilled in me about the beauty and order of the "Chaos Theory."  Look it up if you are interested in learning more about this theory.  But, to make a long story short, the "Chaos Theory" stipulates that in chaos there is order.  That pretty much sums up the process of casting The Keystroke Killer.  Why?

It may seem chaotic to you, not knowing answers and wanting your questions immediately answered, having to wait for each stage to be completed, prior to the KSK casting team moving to the next, not knowing what is going to happen after that, whether or not you have been cast, what role you have been cast for, and so forth.  However, in this casting chaos is order. I think I just invented a new theory; "Casting Chaos." In fact, a structured order with a precise plan of execution to discover the best talent for roles across the world through online social media..

"That is how I Roll," is how I often explain to the KSK staff.   By the end of the process, they will have a complete understanding of the "Caudle Casting Chaos Theory."  To me, it is perfectly logical.  I will show them how, and explain the whys of it, but it is much like constructing a major condo complex.  You have a blueprint from the architect, and although you may not be able to understand or "read" a blueprint, by the time the plan is executed and all people are in place to construct the complex, before you know it, it's finished.  The end result is a beautiful building ready for occupation and no one but the contractor knows each and every detail.  I certainly don't understand the constructs of electrical wiring and the issue of framing.  But, I have to trust the contractor.  So, I guess I am asking that each of you trust that this process is not only systematical, but efficient., if not to say going into undiscovered territory and casting methodology.  With anything new, you learn from your experience and each time it gets better and more efficient.

This epistemological assumption behind the "Caudle Casting Chaos Theory," in the aforementioned paragraph, isn't any different from building the condo complex; except I'm the architect putting all the plans in action with a team that trusts me.  They have learned to follow my lead and my plan and everything works out.  I guess, I am asking all of you to do the same.  Things will work out and the entire process will be clear.  I am an information "Queen" and try my best to give you information of what you need to know at that moment.  In fact, some believe I am in an information overload process.

In other words, we are growing a forest.  But, to grow the forest, we have to plant individual trees, one at a time.  The first tree we planted was announcing the online auditions; e.g., Stage 1.  The second, or Stage 2, was for the KSK casting team to review them.  The third tree, or Stage 3, is to decide on who would be selected to spread the fertilizer and make it grow; e.g,. the actors who received an official call back.  From there, the Forest Rangers are hired, or Stage 4, (call backs with face to face auditions).  Ending at Stage 5,  the final selection of the cast so we can have an overnight camping trip in the forest.  See, it really is a simple process.

I have found that the old fashion saying, "You can't see the forest for the trees," which means that people are losing themselves in the details "Trees" that you forget the big picture "The Film." I can honestly say that I can see the entire forest from the Fourth Dimension.

REMEMBER RULE #3
PRIVATE MEANS PRIVATE- GOT IT!

So, now that those actors who have received an official call back, they also received an official invitation to participate.  In that invitation, a private email address was provided.  DO NOT GIVE THIS EMAIL ADDRESS OUT TO ANYONE EXCEPT YOUR AGENT AND/OR MANAGER.  There is a reason that it is private.  Please honor this confidentiality.

No one else is to have this address as it is specifically design as an information highway tool around the forest and into the Fourth Dimension. Additionally, this email is NOT an email to ask questions or to send Thank you responses for the opportunity for auditioning or for telling me how great I am.  In fact, it is Vicky Thomas' Email address that was established just for KSK Casting process.

I know each of you are trying to be polite in sending back a response like, "Thank you, I'm so glad for this opportunity," or wanting to know more information like "I received my invitation, now what?"  I already know this as I feel the love and commitment from all of the comments on Facebook.  But when you send these types of Emails it does nothing but slow down the process of the next stage in casting because the KSK Casting Team has to sift through 500 Emails of useless information.  This doesn't even include my other three Email addresses for my books, my personal website, and for the other three reality shows and web series I am producing.   I probably get over 600 Emails daily from those combined.  I personally don't have the luxury of wasting time neither does anyone else on our team.

So, when I open the private Email account established for KSK call backs I need to be able to quickly access the information I need for the specific stage of call backs we are in.  That is why I always inform you as to what to put in the subject line.  I have set different filters on my incoming Emails so I can put information where I need it to access later.  Just imagine being me for one day and receiving five hundred Emails that has nothing to do with the information you need.  Again, it slows me down and wastes time.  Time is valuable and inefficient use of time costs the production money.  That is the line producer in me talking, but the more money I don't have to spend on repeating steps etc., the more I can spend on the production.

This brings me to my last point in the opening blog message.  Actually, I have to credit Nick Blady for reminding me of this beautiful analogy as it really does make my point and resonated with the teacher principal in me.  While Skyping one day with Nick, he told me of this professor who handed out a test to his class.  The very first sentence on the test read, "READ ALL OF THE DIRECTIONS AND THE ENTIRE TEST FIRST BEFORE ANSWERING ANY QUESTIONS."  The college students started working hard on the test completing each test question.  By the time they got to the last question it read, "DO NOT WRITE ANYTHING ON THIS TEST BUT YOUR NAME IN THE UPPER RIGHT HAND CORNER AND TURN IT IN."  Only one student had taken the time to follow the directions and passed the test.  Everyone else failed.  Therefore, I will repeat and reiterate - FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS PRECISELY AND PASS THE TEST OF CASTING.  Just remember rule #3.

At the time of the publication of this blog, The KSK team has finished all call backs for roles except for any children's roles and the specialty roles such as the Stripper.  Those will be done at a later time and date, so if you auditioned for those, don't worry yourself.  Those aren't over.  There are still about 10 actors we weren't able to contact.  We have done everything humanly possible to track you down other than calling in the CIA and the FBI.

Additionally, to date, four roles have been officially cast without the need for a face-to-face call back and from their online auditions each submitted.  So, if you had any worries about whether or not your call back would have to on Skype, these individuals have clearly laid the path and proven that any one has a chance of being cast if they participate in the online Skype call back.  

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING individuals and welcome to the Cast of THE KEYSTROKE KILLER.  They are:

Gypsy Elise in the role of the Fortune Teller.

Nathalie Tedrick in the role of the Belly Dancer.

Gino Galento as the one and only IMA STARR.  You go girl!!!

Ava StClaire as Eura Phan.  THIS ROLE WAS WRITTEN IN THE RE-WRITE AFTER DR. MEL WAS INSPIRED BY HER AUDITION.

Johnny Rock as Danny Stone.  Like Ava, the role was created just for Johnny and his personality.

Please congratulate each new cast member on Facebook.

CALL BACK AUDITION PROCESS
BY ROBBY COOK STROUD








1.  AFTER YOU RECEIVE YOUR OFFICIAL CALL BACK NOTIFICATION - SEND YOUR HEAD SHOT/RESUME TO THE EMAIL ADDRESS PROVIDED IN THE DOCUMENT.  THE PURPOSE IS SO SHE CAN COMMUNICATE EASIER TO EVERYONE THROUGH A GROUP EMAIL AND NOT ON FACE BOOK TO SHARE THE PROCESS OF SETTING YOUR OFFICIAL FACE TO FACE TIME AND DATE FOR THE CALL BACK.  DO NOT GIVE THIS OUT TO ANYONE BUT YOUR AGENT OR MANAGER.

2.  AS DR. MEL OPENS YOUR HEAD SHOTS AND RESUMES AND DOUBLE CHECKS THE OFFICIAL "GOLDEN CALL BACK SPREADSHEET" TO MAKE SURE 1) YOU ARE ON THE CALL BACK LIST.  (WE DON'T WANT SOMEONE TRYING TO SLIP UNDER THE MAT SO TO SPEAK BY LEARNING THIS PRIVATE EMAIL ADDRESS).  2) ONCE YOU ARE VERIFIED, SHE WILL PUT YOU INTO A CALL BACK GROUP ACCORDING TO THE ROLE YOU WERE CALLED BACK FOR. THIS MAY OR MAY NOT BE THE ROLE IN WHICH YOU SUBMITTED AN AUDITION.    

3.  ONCE ALL GROUPS HAVE BEEN ESTABLISHED (AT THE MAXIMUM THIS COMING MONDAY)  YOU WILL BE SENT AN EMAIL CONFIRMING THE SPECIFIC ROLE OR ROLES FOR YOUR CALL BACK ALONG WITH A DETAILED DOCUMENT ON HOW TO CONFIRM YOUR APPOINTMENT.

I KNOW THIS DOESN'T MAKE SENSE YET, BUT I PROMISE IT WILL WHEN YOU SEE IT.  SO BE PATIENT.  THIS IS A PROCESS AND WE TAKE IT IN STAGES.  WE DON'T START ANOTHER STAGE UNTIL ONE STAGE IS COMPLETED.

THIS WILL EXPLAIN WHY YOU HAVEN'T RECEIVED AN EMAIL YET IF YOU HAVE ALREADY SUBMITTED YOUR HEAD SHOT AND RESUME.  IT ISN'T TIME FOR THAT STAGE.

AND, PLEASE ONLY SEND YOUR RESUME IN ONE TIME AND ONE TIME ONLY.  IF YOU SEND MULTIPLY EMAILS TO THAT ADDRESS IT ONLY DELAYS THE STAGE BECAUSE DR. MEL WILL HAVE TO OPEN IT, AND DOUBLE CHECK THAT YOU ARE ON THE CALL BACK LIST FOR A SECOND TIME.  RULE #3 REALLY APPLIES HERE.  DON'T PISS DR. MEL OFF BY WASTING HER TIME HAVING TO OPEN AN EMAIL SHE HAS ALREADY LOOKED AT AND CHECKED.

BY THE END OF THIS STAGE, IF WE HAVEN'T RECEIVED YOUR HEAD SHOT, AS INDICATED ON HER GOLDEN SPREADSHEET, WE WILL ATTEMPT TO CONTACT YOU TO ASK FOR IT.  DR. MEL WILL KNOW IF YOU HAVEN’T BECAUSE SHE CHECKS OFF THE SPREADSHEET IN THE AREA “RESUME RECEIVED” AS A CHECK AND BALANCE SYSTEM SHE HAS PUT INTO PLACE.  DR. MEL THEN SORTS THE SPREADSHEET TO SEE WHO HASN’T.  THEREFORE, NO NEED TO ASK HER OR BOTHER HER IF SHE OR CASTING HAS RECEIVED YOUR HEAD SHOT AND EMAIL.  AGAIN, THIS ONLY DELAYS THE PROCESS.

4.  THE NEXT STAGE IS TO CONFIRM YOUR APPOINTMENT TIME.  THIS IS A PROCESS IN ITSELF.  YOU WILL RECEIVE A SEPARATE EMAIL WITH SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS WHICH WAS TESTED AND HELPED CREATED BY NICK BLADY.  WHEN YOU RECEIVE THE EMAIL  YOU WILL KNOW EXACTLY WHAT TO DO.  PICTURES ARE ALSO INCLUDED WITH DIRECTIONS.  BUT, I REPEAT AND STRESS - READ ALL OF THE DIRECTIONS FIRST BEFORE YOU START.

5.  LASTLY, YOU WILL ALSO RECEIVE A REMINDER EMAIL THAT THE AUDITIONS ARE THIS WEEK.  NOT THAT YOU’LL FORGET, BUT THAT IS HOW SHE “ROLLS.”

I hope this clarifies things for you.  And, please remember that the Email address provided for your KSK CALL BACK INVITATION is not the place to Email questions or any correspondences.  IT IS STRICTLY USED AS AN INFORMATION HIGHWAY FROM DR. MEL TO YOU AND FOR YOU TO SUBMIT THE NECESSARY INFORMATION SHE NEEDS. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, EMAIL THEM TO ME ON FACEBOOK AND I WILL FIND OUT THE ANSWER IF I DON'T KNOW IT.

ASSEMBLY OF AN OTLP CASTING BINDER
By Dr. Mel


It is unbelievable the amount of calls and emails I am getting to my production company, On the Lot Productions, LLC for information on actors on this site.  They want my opinion on who I would cast according to their breakdown.  They realize that I have screened every actor on this site and really have a solid base for who can do what etc.  Some of you have already gotten jobs and agents from this.  I love that.

I also get local casting directors and casting assistants dropping by to look at our head shots so they too can see you.  Whew!  I can't stop what I am doing every time they come by.  Therefore, several suggested that we create an official casting binder of head shots and resumes.  We discussed it in our production meeting and we decided that this binder would also benefit us as we have many new upcoming projects besides The Keystroke Killer.  We will know exactly where to look.  So, we have established several five-inch binders eg., men, woman, teens, children, and character actors.  The only thing missing is your hard copy of your resume.  If you want to be considered for our future projects and/or other projects from those that contact us please send us a hard copy to:

ON THE LOT PRODUCTIONS, LLC
C/O DR. MEL CAUDLE
1000 W. Esplanade Ave, Suite 102/158
Kenner, LA  70065

THE INS AND OUTS OF FILM FINANCING

By Dr. Melissa Caudle
All Rights Reserved © 2012

Jumping back in time to late 1895 when the first film was shown on the big screen, filmmaking took off.  Over the years, we have seen film transcend from silent films to beautiful 3D images.  The possibilities of today’s technology for filmmakers to bring their imagination for all to see are endless.  No longer is the filmmaking tied to what can be seen in the physical form.  From the advent of computer technology used in Avatar, to the animations used by Disney, audiences are entertained.  But, it takes more than the imagination of a screenwriter coupling their talents with a creative and gifted team that includes a director and special effects editor; it takes money to make dreams come true.  Obtaining money to produce films is the greatest obstacle to success a filmmaker faces.  Trust me; I know this to be true.  I have several unproduced scripts just waiting for the right connection with funding in order to bring my dream to the big screen.

With that said, I’ve learned a great deal about film financing and the different kinds of financing a filmmaker can tap into.  And, I’m not simply talking about “Fund Raising” as this concept is a different horse of a different color all together.  What I am talking about is the different types of financing used in today’s filmmaking world.  What are your viable options if you don’t have the last name of Spielberg or Lucas?  Guy Magar, founder of Action/Cut Filmmaking says, “Raising money to make a film is like climbing Mount Everest.”

GETTING A HEAD START

Before you can jump in and get your feet wet into the world of film financing, you must make a determination as to the platform for your film project.  Why?  This single decision has the most impact on your film’s budget as it determines equipment needs, shooting schedule, cost for film or tape, and how your film will be distributed.  It is more complex than making a single decision, but it does have the long-term impact on your project.  Therefore, even before you begin to make plans to film your script or produce your reality show; make the decision on your distribution platform, e.g., film, television, DVD, Pay per View, or cable.

Once you have made your distribution platform decision the next step is to know your platform like you know the back of your hand.  This information must be embedded into your memory set and never become “Wishy Washy” when discussing your project with future or potential investors.  You never want to come across of not being able to make up your mind.  Therefore, once you make that decision, stand by it.  It is that important as this becomes part of your pitch plan, EPK packaging, and business plan for your project.

Now on to bigger and better things about obtaining film financing – your pitch packet.  You will have to write a business plan or pitch packet to present to your investors for both a film project and a reality show.  This means you will also have to do lots, and lots, of research.  Your research won’t be limited to where to obtain funding, but you will have to identify companies that distribute your kind of film, similar current projects, develop return on investment (ROI), candidates for a director, possible actors to attach to the project and more.  You will also need to research the vast differences between a business plan for a film and a business plan for a reality show.  My book, The Reality of Reality TV:  Reality Show Business Plans can help you with this journey.  The book not only distinguishes the differences between a film business plan and one for a reality show, but it also provides you with a step-by-step approach to writing a plan for a reality show.  My book does not describe how to write a business plan for a film; however, there are plenty of other books on the market for this purpose.  Again, do your homework and adequate research and you’ll discover your answers and you will be well on your way to writing your specific business plan.


By putting all of the necessary information into your pitch packet builds confidence in your investor.  They will be able to determine the “Worthiness” of your project as well as your commitment level to it.  Another added bonus to a well-defined pitch packet, it garners attention from Hollywood Insiders.  Your goal is to attract “Show Runners” to you project that almost guarantees the success of your project.

TYPES OF INDUSTRY FINANCING

There are different types of industry financing available in today’s film market – studio development, production deals, independent distributor financing, talent agency financing, end-user financing, private financing, and completion funds.  Let’s take a look at each one so you can make the best possible decision as to which one is appropriate for your project.

STUDIO PRODUCTION FINANCING
A studio production “In-House” financing deal usually comes in the form of a development deal.  This is where your pitch plan or business plan comes in handy.  Actually, there is no difference in a studio production deal for a film or a reality show project.  You have to first be able to pitch the project and then be able to leave behind “Marketables,” pieces of written documentation in the form of one pagers and/or business plan. 
Each marketing tool has a specific target but will almost always include a logline and a synopsis.  So, be prepared to bring those to any pitch meeting.  If you don’t know how to create a logline, one pager or how to develop a synopsis for either a script or a reality show, my books, How to Create a One Pager:  Quick Guidebook for Screenwriters, How to Write a Synopsis:  Quick Guidebook for Screenwriters, and How to Write a Logline:  Quick Guidebook for Screenwriters, will prove to be beneficial.  All of my books are available on Amazon.com and my author’s Facebook page Dr. Melissa Caudle (https://www.facebook.com/DrMelissaCaudle).  All books will assist you in designing your marketing tools to include in your business plan.



As with most things in life, there are advantages and disadvantages to an in-house studio deal.  The biggest advantage is that you get the money to produce your project which allows you to reach your dream of producing your film or reality show.  Also, of importance is the fact you will be able to attach a studios name to your project which garners audiences immediately.  Audiences have come to expect certain quality as well as certain genres within the confines of a studio name.  For example, if National Lampoon offers you a Development Deal, the audience expects a comedy.  Likewise, if it is Universal Pictures, you expect a large budget with the special effects to go with it.
The disadvantage lies in the fact that if your project is picked up with an in-house studio deal, most of the rights as well as the profits associated with your project belongs to them and not the screenwriter or creator.  You have to be willing to “let go” of your project and allow others to make crucial decisions which almost always includes re-writes not necessarily by the original screenwriter or creator.
If you are offered an in-house studio deal make sure you seek an entertainment attorney’s advice for your contract which will allow him or her to negotiate the best deal structure for you.  Don’t make the mistake of using the same attorney and simply signing your rights away.  After all, you created and wrote the project.  The studio deal usually comes in a form known as a “Development Deal Memo,” – a short contract between the studio, what they are offering, and you.  It won’t be smooth sailing and can be a long drawn out process which could take up to eight months.  Specific details of your future contract, such as profit margins (percentage points), your salary, shooting and prep schedules, and screen credit are usually outlined in the Development Deal Memo. 
So, if you are expecting fast financing miracles, this isn’t the route for you.  You might want to consider alternative forms of financing because this procedure often gives the screenwriter and reality show creator a false sense of success.  In actuality, you may have signed your rights away or at the very minimum, your profits.  This is especially true for in-house studio deals that offer net profit deals as they typically don’t provide a profit margin to the screenwriter or creator.  I have seen numerous contracts from in-house studio deals that included the studio adding an advertising budget for a project and combined it with an advertising campaign of another film inflating their return on their investment. Therefore, their break-even return is inflated more than their usual 30 to 50 percent. For this reason alone, is why it is critical to have your entertainment attorney review all deal memos and contracts prior to your signature for agreement.  Deal memos are as much of a legal document as are contracts between you and the studio.  Never forget this as they are enforceable in court.
Another trick in-house studios use is what is known as a “Step Deal,” that is attached to the Development Deal Memo.  What happens in a step deal, is that the personnel involved in developing your project is pain incrementally during the development which increases the amount of money the in-house studio must make prior to distributing any profits to you according to your deal structure.  It is essential that you watch out for this as well in your negotiation.  Remember that studios will structure your deal for their benefit, not yours.
There are a couple of other disadvantages with an in-house studio deal.  You always take the chance that your idea can be stolen.  Remember, a logline, treatment, script, and a synopsis is copyrightable; however, an idea isn’t.  It is possible for your project to be in development while they are developing a similar project with a twist.  There is nothing you can do about that.  Another disadvantage is that although you are the screenwriter or reality show creator, you can be fired at any moment for failure to meet deadlines etc.  Your project will either go on without you or put in what is termed as “Studio Limbo.” 
Studio limbo is dangerous as they own the rights, because you signed them over to them, and they drop your project.  When that happens, you can’t seek additional investors or even produce your project because they have your hands tied.  So, watch out for that.  Preplanning and having your entertainment attorney make sure that a statement is included in your deal memo that prevents studio limbo is well advised.  I have actually had one project of mine go into studio limbo.  A lesson I’ll not soon forget.
FINANCING WITH AN INDEPENDENT DISTRIBUTOR

As scary and as tempting an in-house studio deal sounds, there are alternatives to financing your film or reality show project by signing with an independent distributor.  An independent distributor isn’t associated with a studio and usually specializes in foreign sales and distribution.

 A key advantage is that most independent distributors are usually affiliated with the American Film Marketing Association (AFMA) and you are more than likely are able to negotiate a higher profit margin for yourself.  The main disadvantage of going with an independent distributor is that they usually won’t or can’t finance the entire project and often require that the screenwriter or creator have some sort of financing already attached to the project. 

Additionally, most require that actors and the director are already attached and the project has already been broken down and has a shooting schedule.  In other words, is ready to go into production with principle photography.  Lastly, out of all of the companies involved in filmmaking, it is the independent film distribution companies who go into Chapter 11 and bankruptcy the most.  You have to ask yourself if this is an important factor for you when entering into a deal with a distribution company. 

Again, this is where your entertainment attorney comes in handy to review all contracts prior to your agreement.  I can’t really stress this concept enough.  If I haven’t taught you anything in my books, on my blog, Dr. Mel’s Message (www.drmelcaudle.blogspot.com), or in my articles, this is one of the most important concepts I can provide to you as an independent filmmaker and reality show creator.

FINANCING THROUGH A TALENT AGENCY


Sometimes a talent agency really wants to promote a specific actor or actors and will get involved in financing an independent script.  Although it isn’t common, it does in fact happen.  Why would a talent agency consider financing a script?  Simply put, they not only make money from the film, but also their fees for representing the actor or actors increase.  It is a win win scenario for them.

Don’t get me wrong here when it comes to a talent agency getting involved in the financing aspect of a film project.  Those agencies that do, usually don’t give a producer or screenwriter the money, but will broker financing deals with investors, foreign governments, and production companies.  This gives you, the filmmaker, more flexibility as well as more control over your own project.

The big advantage of having a talent agency fund or procure funding for your project is that it becomes a “One Stop Shopping” format for production.  How?  All actors come from the agency.  Usually, the director will be signed with the agency as well, and possibly, they may represent the distributor.  Just think of the amount of money they have the potential to make at this level in the filmmaking process.  For them, it also increases their chances of getting a return on their investment.  They know everything about the project including the amount of money it takes to make the film and how much money the film profits.  Like I said before, it is a win win scenario for talent agencies to get involved in film financing.

As good as this sounds, the major disadvantage is the potential conflict of interest by having their “hands” in every aspect of the project.  One must question how one agency can represent the best deal for an actor at the same time making sure their distributor client gets the best deal.  It proves to be a very sticky and complicated situation at best.  You also have to question who is the agency making the film for; e.g., them?  You?  Actors?  Distributor? Or, the audience?

FINANCING WITH AN END-USER AGREEMENT

Now that you have read the advantages and disadvantages of in-house studio, independent distributor, and agency financing there is another alternative for financing – End-User financing.  End-User financing is when a television station, theater, or independent production company (both domestic and foreign) puts up the money in return for percentage points after the film or project is complete.  This is much like pre-sale financing in that a filmmaker or reality show creator must put up the money first and will only get reimbursed upon completion of the project.

The advantage of End-User financing is that a filmmaker or reality show creator will get his or her money back that they spend.  That is, if they kept their receipts and their bookkeeping is immaculate.  The amount to be provided is usually determined in advance of the production.

The disadvantages should be clear.  One is that if you go over the amount originally agreed upon, you won’t receive that money back.  You also must come up with the money in the first place through other investors or a bank loan which can be daunting.  You must ask yourself, “If you are able to get other investors, why are you going to share your profits with an End-User who doesn’t have any risk?”  Only you will be able to make that decision with the advice from your entertainment attorney.

PRIVATE FUNDING

Just as the term says, “Private Funding” is a way to finance your film project or reality show.  There are several ways to accomplish your goal; e.g., from family and friends, small companies, sponsors, product placement, small investors etc.  The advantage of this you get to maintain your rights and have more control.  The disadvantage is you may lack in the experience to raise funds or create the investment contracts.  Again, use your entertainment attorney for all documentation and contracts.  Keep it legal and make sure you stay informed on SEC regulations.


Never, and I repeat, Never finance your film or reality show project by going into debt with a credit card.  When it comes to distribution, it will do nothing but cause you problems and distribution companies will likely to stay clear of your project.  I don’t think I really need to go into the fact that credit card debt is expensive with the interest rates and ultimately doubles the cost of your film.  That means you have to sell twice as many films just to keep up.  Oh, did I mention not to ever use credit cards to finance your film?

FINANCING THROUGH COMPLETION FUNDS 

Financing your project through completion funds isn’t the answer either.  First of all, completion funds only are designed to provide financing during post-production if for some reason a filmmaker can’t finish the project due to lack of funds or owes money to the lab for the final product and can’t pay.  Of course, your need must be real and the completion bond company requires all of the necessary documentation for proof.

The main advantage of having a completion bond is like buying insurance for the “Just in Case” scenario.  You are buying insurance so if something truly happens you will be able to finish your film.  The disadvantage is that is it very expensive, not to mention the documentation required with a complete reveal of your business and personal banking accounts.  Trust me, if you have fudged or have something to hide, the completion bond company will access it.

IF-COME DEALS AND FINANCING

Are you a new screenwriter or reality show producer?  If so, you may have the opportunity to be presented with an If-Come Deal.  An If-Come Deal is when a screenwriter or reality show producer is offered by a production company if they are interested in your project; yet, they don’t want to put any money into it at the present time.  It is a wait and see game with a key stipulation – the production company must be actively seeking funding, financing, or a licensee interest.  Typically included in an If-Come Deal is a Writer’s Deal Memo which stipulates that the creator or screenwriter will be attached to the project if funding is secured. 

An If-Come deal has its advantage.  One such advantage is that as a screenwriter or reality show creator you get to “Gloat” that a production company is interested in your project.  This does give you a sense of success.  Also, an If-Come Deal can actually help the first-time screenwriter or reality show producers because often the production company will have previous connections in the industry to tap into for funding.  In essence, you get to come along for the ride.

The main disadvantage for an If-Come Deal is that it does tie your project to a specific production company for a specified length of time.  This means, as long as the If-Come Deal is in effect, you cannot seek additional funding or begin development of any kind.  You have to consider the possibility of the project not getting any funding at all and because the production company has no investment in the project could pitch other projects over yours to their closely tied investment network.  That is a risk you will have to take.  I would just make certain that you involve your entertainment attorney in the process and make sure that you have a “Way Out” clause which stipulates a time frame that the If-Come Deal will expire.  In fact, a “Way Out” clause isn’t a bad idea for any of the financing structures in my opinion.  When a “Way Out” clause is included contractually between a screenwriter or a reality show creator with a production company or investors, the rights to the screenplay and reality show revert back to you.  At the very minimum, a “Way Out” clause will allow the doors to be open for renegotiation of a new contract. 

FINANCING THROUGH OPTION DEALS

When you option your script or reality show you enter into an “Option Deal” with a production company.  What this means is that the production company believes in your idea or script and agrees to pay you the screenwriter or creator a small fee in order to shop your project to other production companies, television networks, or investors.  In general, it is much like renting a house with the option to buy it.  If in fact your screenplay or reality show is sold, both you and the production will make money.  They make money by selling your work.  You make money by getting the amount agreed upon which is more than likely at the rate stipulated by the Writer’s Guild of America.  When the time-frame expires for the option, all rights revert back to you.

IN SUMMARY

Now you have been introduced to several types of financing which includes the pros and cons of variety of methods to finance your film.  I would be remiss if I didn’t mention a viable alternative and that is to raise the funds yourself through several fundraising techniques.  In fact, I have written two books that address this topic.  The first book, Fundraising for Independent Filmmakers, presents 150 creative ideas to raise funds.  The second book, 150 Ways to Raise Funds for Reality Show Creators, provides similar techniques but is directed for reality shows.  You need not purchase both books to benefit from the contents as I specifically address fundraising for either the independent filmmaker or the reality show creator.  Purchase the one that address your needs.  Both books are available on Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, and on my Facebook author page Dr. Melissa Caudle (https://www.facebook.com/DrMelissaCaudle).

In conclusion, when it comes to money and financing a film or reality show project, be upfront, honest, and stay in control.  Above all else, seek the advice and counsel of your own entertainment attorney.

GYPSY FREE RADIO

Over the last several weeks I have introduced you to Gypsy Elise and the Royal Blues.  They are awesome and I love their music.  In fact, this is the band that did the original first soundtrack for The Keystroke Killer which is available for sale.  Another bit of good news is the fact that both Gypsy and I celebrate original music and musicians.  There isn't a day that goes by that music doesn't impact either one of us.  Now, in support of all musicians, single, duets, and bands, of all kinds, you can have the opportunity to have your music played on Gypsy Free Radio.

That's right.  Gypsy has created a Internet radio station featuring new and established artists to get their music out to the world.  The radio station features all of the original music by Gypsy Elise and the Royal Blues as well as ten other albums and new bands.  If you are an musician and want a to have your music added to Gypsy Free Radio, send your original music in a mp3 file and your liner notes to:  RadioFreeGypsy@gmail.com.  To listen to the station while you are reading this blog (HINT HINT) click here.  Happy listening and happy reading of Dr. Mel's Message.

WHAT HAPPENED TO THE MEMBER SPOTLIGHT LIST?



THE ROAD TO KSK CASTING
This week the member spotlight will not be posted as we have moved into the call backs.  We cannot publish the official call back list at this time until everyone has been notified.

FAVORITE KSK MEMBER COMMENTS

Challa Sabree<---(just got his callback!!!!!)...I feel as though I just won an award sooo..."I'd like to thank my mama and daddy, because without that one night in a drunken stupor in a sleezy motel, I wouldn't be here today!")...I'm just kiddin y'all...(the motel wasn't THAT sleezy!...lol)

Summer E. Sinclair I can now pull out the pins, but the needles are stuck 'til after my callback! SO excited to meet the KSK team and bring my best in L.A.!!! Congrats to all

M Gerard Pavuk Just got a callback on my desk and I am grabbin my cigars and heading down to New Orleans!!! Whooo Hooo

Raven LexY
-(((happy dancing))) YayYYYYYYY! wasn't sure if we were sharing until I scrolled down.. I can NOT wait to meet all you cali auditioner's at the face to face callbacks... & the "make-up" ksk la party. (wine glass in hand... ok second glass) Wanted to raise a toast & cheer us all on this amazing journey. (I think I will be cheering all night with this excitment- might to walk to trader joes now for another bottle of 2 buck chuck)

Chip Carriere Thank you so much, I cannot wait for the callback in New Orleans. I would like to wish everyone luck. This has been a very rewarding experience. Regardless of how it works out after casting, I have been fortunate to meet and make new friends from coast to coast and even abroad. That to me is already a win. I have no doubt that when I get to L.A. some day, I can call Jack E Curenton and he will feed me and house me. LOL! All kidding aside, this has been one of the most rewarding experiences I have had while pursuing my craft. Starting with great leadership, throw in an abundance or great talent, mixing in a huge helping of mutual support and love and you get a BIG helping of KSK Jambalaya. You all make this recipe ROCK!

Vito Viscuso So many KSK member to say congrats to, and so little time to write to each one of you individually. So, I will write a mass congrats to all KSK members who received callbacks! And to the those who may not have received a callback know this, it takes great courage to open yourself up as a artist and take a chance on an oppotunity like this one. Every member of KSK should be proud of themselves and each other. Great Job to ALL


Sabrita Gordon Oh my God, this is the best birthday present ever! I just got a callback! Thank you so much! Happy birthday to me...

Blanca Avalos Thank You both for the callback!!! Looking forward to meeting you. Actually live in Baltimore.....but working on a feature film in LA the entire month of August.....THE STARS ARE ALIGNED!!!

Scott Wright Congratulations to everyone who has received a call back. I feel truly honored to be a part of such a talented group of people and look forward to seeing what is brought to the table as we delve deeper into these characters and bring them to life in this second round. Thank you again to Melissa Caudle and Robby Cook Stroud for what has definitely been one of the most unique and rewarding experiences I have had as an actor thus far. Just for fun, here is a pic of that short angry gunslinger I've been portraying lately :)

Jenny Jones Best day ever!!!!!!!! 1) I get to leave the hospital tomorrow so I am soooo happy that I am feeling so much better and finally get to go home! 2) I just got an email saying I got a callback for the role of jenni for ksk !!!!!!!! Omg I am over the moon excited about this!! Thank you guys sooo very much for giving me the chance to audition again it means everything to me!!!!!! It's been the hardest year of my life and I really wanted something happy to happen so thank you!!!! Congrats to everyone who got a callback you guys did amazing and great job to all those who auditioned everyone is a winner when you follow your dreams :) loop love to everyone!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ellery Truesdell I am so jazzed to get a call back. I say jazzed because all of the other adjectives have been taken by now. Now we get down to the real nitty gritty of things. Let's all do so great that they will have one hell of a time making the final cut. I've seen some pretty awesome audition videos on here, so I know the face-to-face auditions are going to be even better. Good luck to ALL the KSK'rs.

Cela Yildiz How about the callbacks for Europeans???... specially the Belgian area ! :

Phyllis Chafe Comoletti ok so my daughter uses my facebook and while we were eating dinner, she said "mom you got a message from Robby Rae! I yelled and ran over to the computer! Thanks so much!!! :) ok now I can go back to eating my lasagna! ( maybe!) I so fit this part!! :) I am an indigo child!

Natalie Sharp Holy crap, holy crap, holy crap, holy crap....oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh....just got my call back invite and that was my reaction. Thank Yall soooooooooo much!!! I am so excited. My husband thought something was wrong b/c i was screaming.

Joel Cole Sooooo excited! Got a callback for Malcolm in Los Angleles! Thank you, Melissa Caudle and Robby Cook Stroud! I hope to land the role and work with you two on this exciting project! I've seen some amazing auditions in this group, there is a lot of talent here. All the best wishes to everyone in this group, the KSK'rs. Congratulations to everyone else that has received callbacks as well! Best of luck!

Bonnie Jane Levinson I am jumping for joy to be able to meet with you face to face. I feel so fortunate to have gotten a callback. I am so happy my audition caught your eyes.......... spinning around in circles.....Please fly safely everyone and have a lovely, fantastically successful healthy week. :-)

Jenny Jones jenny jones here got the TUBES OUT OF MY NOSE,THROAT AND STOMACH.. AND I CAN FINALLY EAT!! HERE IS A PIC OF ME SMILING WHILE EATING MY FAV FOOD EVER.. CUSTARD!!!!!! :

Diana Marzigliano Thank YOU GUYS....Dr. Mel, Robby, and all of your team and the great friends I have had the honor of getting to know... I got a callback...I am so excited....doing cartwheels and a round off HANNAH... LOL

Johnny Rock Right on! I have a callback for the role of Alex..... thanks to all involved in the selection process. Time to bring my A+ game :-)

Everett Booth Hello Robby, and Dr. Caudle, First I would like to thank you both, and the entire KSK Production Team for selecting me for a callback! I am looking forward to meeting with you face to face. This news has made my week! I will be sending you my email as per your request later! See in LA!!

William T EnsleyWhew!!!! Felt Like I was waiting to be drafted to the NFL on day three...lol Just kidding I will be joining you Talented Folks for Call Backs and I am Honored:)

Kennedy Moronta OMG I'm so excited i can hardly type lol, i just got the official Callback for the amazing upcoming television series "The Keystroke Killer" for the role of Lorenzo.. Looking forward to Meeting you guys in person!!!! Thank you Melissa Caudle, Robby Ray, God and my Family & Friends for sticking with me and my dreams.. Hugs For All......LOVE IT!!!!!

Jack E Curenton What a Day....got offered the lead role in a 3 hr made for TV Historical Docu/drama, an got the call about approved for a special project with one of the Studios filming on Friday and now the call back for KSK....Oh Yea, I'm doing my Happy Dance...(and those at the LACA KSK Skype to NOLA KSK Party have already seen that)....now All Y'all will just have to attend the Call Back KSK Party with Dr Melissa Caudle and Robby Cook Stroud and the CAL contingent to see it again
  • THE END.

Thursday, July 19, 2012

The Keystroke Killer Soundtrack and More

www.drmelcaudle.blogspot.com
Get your updates about new posts by subscribing to Dr. Mel's Message.


In this week's Dr. Mel's Message
KSK Top Ranked on Google Search Engine
40 and Leroy New Episode is Out
KSK Party Central Highlights
Will the Real KSK Please Stand Up by Ian Mercer
KSK "Unofficial" Soundtrack Availability
KSK Self-Proclaimed Field Reporter Update
Photos of the Week
Update on "You Nailed it" List

and you don't want to miss...YOU KNOW YOU'VE BEEN TO A KSK PARTY WHEN

NEW ARTICLES
and don't forget to return often and check out The Actor's Slate and The Back Lot

JULY 19, 2013

DR. MEL'S MESSAGE

Part of the early KSK Party goers in New Orleans
This week I don’t even know where to start as so much has transpired over the course of the last seven days.  I’ve been jammed with production things, which is a great problem to have and has kept me very busy since Robby is in Florida.  I can’t wait for her return.  

I also had to return to my oral surgeon as there was a huge problem with one of the tooth implants I had to have earlier this year.  Ouch! You see, last year during my annual teeth cleaning the dentist discovered a white patch the size of a dime and sent me immediately to my oral surgeon for a biopsy.  Needless to say, I ended up having to have several teeth removed and the "Cancer" area as well.  Then the rebuilding process with the bone graphing and tooth implants.  This was an eight month process.  

I was so excited last week, two days before the big KSK party, that everything was finished and I was looking forward to an old fashioned weekend barbecue with ribs, corn on the cob, and potato salad.  But no!  "Houston we have a problem,"  One of the implants was loose on Friday 13, 2012.  I had to go to the oral surgeon before the party.  However, before they could get to the "root" of the problem, no pun intended, I had to be on several medications first.  Then on Tuesday, I'd have to return to the oral surgeon.

Dr. Walter "Walters"
Oral Surgeon who gave inspiration
to the character Dr. Frank Franklin in
The Keystroke Killer
My oral surgeon, Dr. Walter "Walters" Jackson, informed me that he would have to remove the tooth to make a determination if it was the tooth, the abutement, or the implant itself.  (Now you know why I changed Dr. Frank Franklin from a plastic surgeon to a oral surgeon). The biggest concern he had was that if it was the abutment, and since it was cemented onto the implant screw itself, we took the chance of damaging the entire screw.  If that happened, I would have to have the entire implant removed and start over with a bone graph and implant.  HOLY COW!  

The good news is that it was the abutment itself and not the rejection of the implant they previously thought.  After six hours of sawing in my mouth, success.  They were able to remove the tooth and the abutment without damaging the implant.  SUCCESS.  Now, it will be several weeks, not months, before a new abutment and tooth can be connected.  But, considering that it could have been the implant as well, I"ll take that.  Thanks to all of my friends and family that kept me in their prayers and provided the much needed support.  Even my mother came down and "Nursed" me back to health with her homemade potato soup.

There was a bit of bright and shiny news as our beloved New Orleans Saints team signed our favorite quarterback, Drew Brees, to a five-year $100 million dollar contract.  Whew! It is well deserved and I can't wait for the NFL football season to kick off.  Both literally and figuratively speaking of course.  There shouldn't be any surprises in the fact that I am an avid NFL New Orleans Saints fan.  And, just like the time the Saints went and won the Super Bowl in Miami, I plan on being in that number when they win in the Super Dome this season.  WHO DAT!

Dr. Mel at the Super Bowl in Miami
GEAUX SAINTS!
In the midst of all of that, I am in the process of honing Transcendence: The Keystroke Killer and anxiously wait sharing it with the focus group I have selected.  I think they will be able to provide honest feedback as well as insights I haven’t considered.  That is the beauty of a team approach.  I love the added power and dynamics group thought brings to any project.

I also received word that three more actors were able to get an agent to represent them because of their audition they posted on The Keystroke Killer Fan Site.  I simply love getting those kinds of updates. That is true networking at its best on a social media web site.

And, to my surprise, I was informed by Google, that KSK and The Keystroke Killer is one of the top keywords being searched on their search engine.  Wow.  So, I decided to test it out.  I started by going to the Google Search Images page and typed in KSK.  The top five pictures included the montage of the members of KSK on Facebook, the original short poster for The Keystroke Killer, the ICON for KSK, a picture of me from the blog, and a picture of Johnny Rock, Diane Margizliano., Timothy Wyant and Tina Rubin, who BTW, were the New Orleans KSK party planners..

GOOGLE IMAGE SEARCH RESULTS OF KSK


The next search was also a Google Image search.  This time, I typed out The Keystroke Killer.  I really couldn't believe what I was seeing.  The results included more than 10 pages of online auditions from KSK members, photos of me, the script, and things from my blog.  Look and see if you are one of the lucky actors that are being seen first when other producers, agents, directors, and casting directors, search images for The Keystroke Killer. Here is the picture of those results. This is only one indication how the online process for KSK is helping your own individual search results.

GOOGLE IMAGE SEARCH RESULTS FOR THE KEYSTROKE KILLER


Next, I decided to do a general search on the web through Google.  This search also gave me an insight into our project.  Again, we are ranked first.  I only put in The Keystroke Killer.  Here is the result.

           GOOGLE WEB SEARCH RESULTS FOR THE KEYSTROKE KILLER



The last serach I completed on Google was using just the acronym "KSK."  We are in the top five here.  Take a look at the results.

GOOGLE WEB SEARCH RESULTS FOR KSK


Of course all rankings could all change next week, but I thought I'd share the pictures with you.  You are a part of something that is catching on.  I can't thank you enough.  Maybe, if I have time in the future, I'll do a BING and a YAHOO search.  Or, if anyone else wants to do it and send me the results in a jpeg, that would be great too.

NEW 40 AND LEROY EPISODE DISTRIBUTED
Creator/Director/Producer:  Reed McCants

The latest episode of 40 and Leroy, the web series that I am one of the Executive Producers for, along with Neema Barnette, also came out this week.  If you haven't been following that series and want good old fashion slap stick comedy, subscribe to the series 40 and Leroy at www.40andLeroy.com.  Lots and lots of fun.




KSK PARTY CENTRAL

Also, it was the first ever KSK Party Social Event, in both Los Angeles and New Orleans at the same time where all of us partied like movie stars.  It was great seeing so many people who I felt I knew face-to-face.

KSK member's Jack Curenton, Timothy Wyant, Stephen Beal, and Nick Blady manned the Skype KSK patrol.  This allowed us to connect our two parties and party together. In fact, we had KSK members join us from all over the world and thanks to Gypsy Elise, we were able to broadcast portions of the night's events live to over 17 countries. One such member was Ian Mercer.  Whew!

Jack Curenton manning Skype in Los Angeles
Don Robb overlooking Jack's progress.
Nick Blady manning the controls in New Orleans
DH Lewis and Bonnie Levinson doing there own Skype, Twitter and Facebook from Los Angeles
Jerry Lopez chatting from New Orleans to Los Angeles

Ashlie McRae, Dr. Mel, and Joseph McRae
My amazement was how much I already felt that a bar filled with more than 150 people that I never met face-to-face before were in fact not strangers to me.  Even getting out of my car, I instantly recognized Joseph McRae, as he did me, and we hugged each other.  The entire night went in the same direction.  Each time I met someone, we already knew each other.  Well, that was up until I ran into Gregory Kurcyznski, a Jack Curenton impostor, at the New Orleans party.  There this man was sitting at the bar, and I went up to him etc., and he didn’t know who I was.  I really thought Jack was pulling a fast one on me and flew into New Orleans for the party.  Boy, did I get a surprise of a lifetime when I went over to the Skype table and there was Jack on the Screen with DH Lewis.  My first thought was Judas’ words, “I can be anywhere, at anytime, you’ll never know when I’ll be watching.”  Whew!  I knew doppelgangers existed.  In fact, I have one.  But this really blew my mind.  We finally introduced Jack, via Skype, to his look-a-like Greg, who it turns out to be another producer and director currently working in New Orleans.  

Doppelganger on the left and Dr. Mel on the right.  Really, that is not me on the left.

The two Jacks - Will the real Jack please stand up?

(Gregory Kurcyznski on the left and Jack Curenton on the right.)

Johnny Rock and Ryan De Sade
The night was full of entertainment.  Kicking off the party in New Orleans , C. Beever's, was our very own KSK member Johnny Rock as DJ.  He got things started with his one of a style taking us back to the fifties all the way up to some of today’s hottest hits.  And, I got my first dance of the evening with Challa Sabree.  I guess DH Lewis and I have a lot in common in that area as it is my understanding she got the Los Angeles party started by dancing. 

Once Johnny Rock got things started, Gypsy Elise, accompanied by the fabulous keyboardist Ryan De Sade, shook things up with local favorites songs like Brown Eyed Girl and then a complete set of original music.  Also available was the limited edition of THE KEYSTROKE KILLER “Unofficial Soundtrack” with more than 15 original songs.  It truly is one of a kind album.  There are a couple of the CDs remaining.  If you are interested, you may purchase it from Gypsy Elise.  It is a limited edition printing, but if there is enough interest, I think we may be able to swing a second edition.

Gypsy Elise and Ryan De Sade at C Beevers, July 13, 2012
While New Orleans was rocking the night away to the sounds from Johnny Rock and the fantastic music from Gypsy Elise, Los Angeles was rocking out to the music of The Will Call Band.

The Will Call Band,  performing at the Los Angeles KSK Party

THE "UNOFFICIAL KSK SOUNDTRACK 

Music by Gypsy Elise and the Royal Blues Street Band

Front and Back Jacket of "Unofficial Soundtrack" for The Keystroke Killer
Music by Gypsy Elise and The Royal Blues Band
COLLECTOR'S CUTS
CD"s available for a limited time only
Also more music from Gypsy Elise available at the link above

MUSIC OF THE NIGHT

While New Orleans was enjoying the beautiful vocals from Gypsy Elise, in her Southern Blues and Jazz style, Los Angeles was keeping up with us with their own music.  
Natalie Sharp and Rockin Dopsie impromptu performance
We had all sorts of celebrities in the house including New Orleans royalty Rockin’ Dopsie, front for the band, Rockin’ Dopsie, Jr. and The Zydeco Twisters.  KSK party goers in New Orleans were treated with impromptu performances by Dopsie, both as a solo, and with a couple of our KSK members, who shared their vocal talent as Gypsy took a vocal break.  Stunning the crowd, Natalie Sharp, KSK Member, who auditioned for the role of Jenni, took to the microphone to sing her rendition of Prince’s Purple Rain.  Dopsie couldn’t keep seated and bolted from the bar to join in on the song with her.  He also sang with other KSK members and around 200AM he took the stage all to himself entertaining us late, late, late KSK party goers in New Orleans.  Who Dat say we can't party in Nawlins baby?

Also in the crowd was a cast member from the movie series Twilight and some other local musicians.  Heck, even Elvis made an entrance at one point.  I guess he came from the Fourth Dimension via Judas.

SKYPE KSK STYLE

The KSK party Skyped into the Los Angeles party where things were rolling as well.  It was so much fun to talk with Jack Curenton, Rob Patterson, Gina Lee, DH Lewis, Stephen Beal, Michael Briggs, James Karnes, Trace Schroeder, and lots, lots more including Robby Stroud, who was in Florida.  It’s my understanding that the party got lively in Los Angeles as well and the band on their end played overtime because of the inspiration of the music Gypsy Elise was playing in New Orleans.
DH Lewis and Bonnie Levinson
We did experience some technical difficulties with Skyping, mainly because it was so hard to hear with the loud music and crowds on both ends.  However, we’re a creative problem-solving group, just the kind of people I want to work with on a film, and we resorted to writing on napkins and communicating that way.  In a way, it was like instant tweeting.  However, we could see the reactions of the people reading each message.


A MOMENT TO ALWAYS REMEMBER
One special moment at the New Orleans party happened as I was presented a plaque from all KSK MEMBERS by the Tina Rubin, one of the party planners.  I was overwhelmed.  This is what the plaque read.

Dr. Melissa Caudle
******
Voted best “2012” screenwriter and creator from all the KSK members.
You have our deepest appreciation for presenting the Opportunity to talent nationwide,
For the first time ever audition process in film history.
We will always remember this special and unforgettable project.
“THE KEYSTROKE KILLER”
July 13, 2012

Like I said, I was overwhelmed.  Since when does a screenwriter and creator of a project get a plaque before you even start filming?  Since the beginning of this project nothing but "Firsts" are happening right and left.  I can't explain to anyone why.  In fact, the other night Greg, Jack's look-a-like, asked me what I did to get the attention onto KSK.  I really didn't have a particular answer.  This just goes to show the type of group that has assembled here on Facebook in support of a project.

Tina Rubin, who auditioned for Dr. Elizabeth Wright, presented Dr. Mel with a plaque 
From all KSK Members
I would be remiss if I didn’t thank the teams who worked so hard to make this event special.  The New Orleans team consisted of Johnny Rock, Tina Rubin, Timothy Wyant and Diane Marzigiliano and Nick Blady.  And, in Los Angeles, Jack Curenton and Stephen Beal.  Also, a huge thanks to Gypsy Elise and Ryan De Sade, who provided such fantastic entertainment throughout the night.  I also want to thank both venues for the spaces - C Beavers in Metairie and the 49th Air  Squadron in Van Nuys, Ca.  Thank you to everyone for making Friday 13th a day I will always cherish.  I love this group.

If meet and greet parties, like the KSK parties on July 13, 2012, are any indication of the bonding of this group has already formed, just imagine what it is going to be like when we start filming.  We may never want to get off the elevator.  This means we’ll just have to do another film.  As a very good friend I met while working on a Sony film, actually, she was the Production Supervisor; there aren’t any goodbyes in this industry, but rather, until the next film.

KSK FIELD REPORTER TIMOTHY WYANT

Timothy Wyant, self-proclaimed KSK Field Reporter, sums up the night of the party very well in this funny You Tube video.  Wyant was one of the party planner group in New Orleans that posted funny You Tube videos promoting the upcoming KSK social event.  Too, too funny.  And, if you didn't watch them, please take the time to watch from the first one up to the last. It is very entertaining.  Oh, (hint), Timothy may have is own web series going and he doesn't even know it with his many characters he did throughout the promotion.  GREAT JOB!  Now, if we only knew what Judas thinks of it all.



KSK PARTY LOS ANGELES
By James Karnes


Well the KSK party on Friday the 13th was a much anticipated event here in Los Angeles. This writer was filled with much anticipation and trepidation as he braved the 101 to 405 interchange on a Friday night in the city that truly never sleeps Los Angeles. Amazingly enough the freeways were clear in the direction I was travelling. A very good omen for the above mentioned infamous date.

Before the party at the
94th Aero Squadron, Van Nuys, C
As I arrived at the 94th Aero Squadron, the location of the party, not in Los Angeles, but in the city of Van Nuys California near the airport, I noticed another actor entering the premises. I walked into the building, a quaint establishment with a Bi Plane out in front and a room in the form of a bombed out French café. I was directed to the party room. There was Jack in front of the monitor and computer. It was a rather small gathering I had expected a much larger crowd. 

There were snacks and the New Orleans party well under way. It was great seeing the faces behind the pictures and auditions viewed online. Meeting those wonderful people was an experience I would suggest to anyone. Seeing actors outside an audition room can be impersonal and cool. Everyone at the party was very friendly and warm. We all gathered around the monitor to say hey to everyone in New Orleans, Skype is a wonderful tool, there were some problems staying connected but Jack and a friend of his fixed that right away. We got a message from New Orleans that said something to the effect of, Skype party over drinking now. I don’t really remember the total message but it was to that effect. It wasn’t true Skype kept on going, thankfully.

We talked among ourselves as well such deep conversation such as, say does anyone know how much you can drink in this state without getting a DUII or where is that breathalyzer anyway?  Just kidding, we did make connections with each other.

YOU KNOW WHEN YOU'VE BEEN TO A KSK PARTY WHEN...

By Dr. Melissa Caudle



First, I want to apologize for this section because I am not a comedian.  However, I thought it would be fun to share some of my ideas with KSK members and others who follow this blog what it is like to go to a KSK social event.

THE TOP 13 OF YOU KNOW WHEN

You know when you've been to a KSK party when:

13. You wake up in a trailer in Mississippi and don't remember how you got there.

12. You know you came with someone, but can't seem to find them anywhere.  There isn't a trace of them.

11. You can't remember you're own name or the name of a Twilight star sitting next to you.

10.You randomly start hugging and kissing people you have never met face-to-face.

9.  When you can't find your purse or camera the next morning.

8.  You call home for directions from C Beavers.

7.  The last thing you remember was...hell, I don't really remember that one.

6.  You're on the front page of the local newspaper as a potential stalker.

5.  You find yourself writing on napkins to communicate and think it's normal.

4.  When you are seeing two Jacks.  How did he do that?

3.  You had fun watching a puppet playing a saxophone.

2.  You wished you took home leftover gumbo, red beans and rice, and meatballs for a hangover cure.

1.  The police come to your door the next morning and ask if you know Timothy Wyant, Jack Curenton, Challa Sabree, Chris Swirls, Jerry Lopez, and DH Lewis and want to know the whereabouts on Judas Greenberg and Dr. Garrick Angela.


DH Lewis, Gina Lee, and Jack Curenton
Diana Marzigliano , Tymothy Wyant and Carol Ann Scruggs
Johnny Rock and Rockin Dopsie
Skyping
Natalie Sharp, Timothy Wyant, and De'Cha LaVeau
Joseph McRae in the background

Would the REAL Keystroke Killer please stand up?

By Ian Mercer, Liverpool, England








Mr Tiglet, created by Ian Mercer
Liverpool, England - July 16, 2012 - In my lack of progress in revising my first script for The Keystroke Killer, I have taken to haunting the Facebook Page, commenting on actors auditions, joining in the wit and banter, which includes the M-theory debate, science and philosophy behind the Fourth Dimension, or just plain silliness, like playing with Jack Curenton’s Clonegun.

A Clonegun isn’t some replacement for a Lightsaber, which’ll never happen anyway, but a clever and witty Advert that Jack made.

As I have been working through various projects, including the usual shenanigans off Mr. Tiglet, I have been watching online auditions (but not stalking, that’s Tim Wyant’s area of expertise!)) Some of which have been quite gripping, making me think that it is about time I got back into acting/Extra work, although acting is what I need to get an IMDB credit or two. Some of the auditions have been quite quirky/different, a stand-out (or maybe sit-out!) example would be Graham Clarke’s CNC News Anchor, who sat at his desk reading the news, a straight, no-nonsense intense delivery which ends with the unexpected line of “I may or may not be wearing pants”! Delivered with such a straight face and sincerity that is one of the funniest things you’ve ever heard. Hilarious!

I also got a chill off Challa Sabree’s scary Judas/Keystroke Killer tape, complete with lighting and sounds effects, creepy, as was Tim Wyant’s chilling Milo audition, such a contrast to the fun-loving chappy goofing around on the site.

They are just a few, very few auditions that make the site a fun place to hangout. It makes you wish that there were two versions, maybe one for radio/audio, a great medium for many voices, Jack, Challa and Helene Cordona especially. I don’t envy Dr. Melissa Caudle and the Casting Director’s in whittling down the callback list to the final few candidates, glad it is something I won’t be involved with. Maybe I should just get Jack’s Clonegun and copy everyone, to make an Alternate KK in the 13th Dimension or something? Hold on, there’s another idea to scribble down. Now that Higgs Boson is popping up after playing metaphysical hide and seek, such an instrument may be possible. I’ll have to put it on my to-invent list, along with Anti-Gravity, Matter Transmission and Super-Wormholes to distant galaxies!!

The Keystroke Killer Party last Friday night was another interesting experience, though my cold didn’t help, I did manage to Skype in for a while, though at 3AM GMT, it was early for the rest in New Orleans and Los Angeles!! Still, the pictures and videos from the event showed what a roaring success it was. It is amazing how a show still in development about a Serial Killer has such a diverse range of people with a collective sense of fun and humour. I still hope that I’ll have a few characters of my own to add. Maybe even a guest role for Mr. Tiglet, who knows, with The Keystroke Killer Project, anything is possible!!

Author Note:  Ian Mercer, lives in Liverpool, England and answered a call for a collaboration on KSK pilot episodes.  Ian also maintains his own blog for writers with an interesting take on the writing process for articles, novels, and screenplays. He also has created a whimsical character for his stories in Mr. Tiglet.  Follow Ian's blog at Iancaimercer's Blog.


MORE KSK PARTY PICKS

Cathy Blady, Dr. Mel, Johnny Rock and Orlette 
Cathy Blady and Rockin Dopsie
Timothy Wyant and Nick Blady

Tony Pallo, Cathy Blady, and Johnny Rock
Beginning of KSK party in Los Angeles
James Karnes and Stephen Beal with Trace Shroeder in the background.


DH Lewis and Bonnie Levinson
Bonnie Levinson
DH Lewis
Bonnie Levinson and Carl Griffin
Summer Sinclair
There were people there that had to travel for a couple of hours to get there and home. It was impressive to see the turn out and very good atmosphere all positive people. The event was fulfilling in to many ways to describe, but let me say this, to be near so many creative and positive people, including the New Orleans people, created an atmosphere of renewal. I hadn’t slept since 4:30 AM as there were things that I needed to get taken care of well as another actor who was going to compete the next day and still showed up. One person who couldn’t make it Skyped in, all in all I would say that it is an experience I will not forget and carry with me throughout my career. That was my experience to say thank you Melissa seems a little lacking.

There are no words to truly describe it but, thank you Melissa.

KEEPING UP WITH THE JONES

By Dr. Mel Caudle







One character in The Keystroke Killer that has the producers, casting director, and creator/producer/screenwriter Dr. Mel Caudle battling is the private investigator Jones.  Why?  We can't figure out if this character is going to be a male or a female.  One would think we would already know this, but in all honesty we don't.

I originally created the Jones character as a man.  I didn't envision a specific race as Matthew is Caucasian, Petterson is African American male, and both Snead and Hammer are Caucasian men. At first, I did see Jones as a man. That all changed throughout the audition process.  I couldn't help but hear my own words to producer/director/screenwriter David C. Kirtland of Dark Blue.  I told him, "Agent Doner has to be a woman, not a man." My reason for stating this to Kirtland and to our lead actor Tracy Miller was I felt that we had too much "testonterone going on in the film."  I was right about that for Dark Blue. Now, I found myself questioning the same for the Jones' role in KSK.  Now what?  What would I do?


Dr. Mel Caudle, David C. Kirtland and Chris Lyons watch dailies from the film Dark Blue.
On the screen is actor Tracy Miller, who plays Detective Callaghan

My only solution was to open up the online audition process to both men and women and see what the talent pool brings to the table.  And, bringing it, is exactly what they did. In the running for this role are many powerful actors, both male and female.  I'll never forget watching the very first female audition that came in that I would even consider casting a female in the role.  The actress that delivered this audition was Scarlette Martin.  If you would like to watch that audition, click here.

Please don't misunderstand me, this doesn't mean Scarlette has the role.  She has plenty of competition from both male and female actors.  I can't forget the other auditions which includes "You nailed it," performances by Nancy DeBoe, Adam Parker, Bobbie Lee, Raven Lexy (although she auditioned for Janice Thompson), Joseph McRae (although he auditioned for Matthew), Isaac Depeyer (although he auditioned for Matthew), David Castro, Will Rian (although he auditioned for Milo Evans), Karen Weza (although she auditioned for Dr. Wright), Silvia Moore, Shanna Forestall, Veronica Simpleton, Jasmine Forest, Virginia Elmwood, Lauren Michales, Shandra Baptist, Kelly Filmont, Meagan Fletcher, and Maria Estrova.  Each of these actors brings something unique to this role.  So, who is Jones and why is this character important?

Jones is very important to the entire plot and plot twists for KSK.  First, Jones is a supporter of Matthew.  They had to come a long way together even to like each other, but one night something happens that changes everything the way Jones feels and looks at Matthew. Of course, I can't reveal that to everyone, but it is an unexpected twist of fate. From that point on, a different type of relationship develops. It is more than a partner scenario where they have each other's backs. In fact, they develop a type of "Mental Telepathy" that can't be explained and they both deny.  But, the key to understanding Jones, rests in Matthew's "Mind."  Okay, if you are confused, sorry, but it is a twisted understanding.  There will be lots of questions for the audience to debate and get their own thoughts wrapped around Jones' character.  

During call backs, we will be looking for "Uniqueness" from the actor and the ability to make a connection with us with their eyes.  We want to be able to "Hear" your thoughts in our "Mind's Eye."  That's a tall task to fill, but one of the above actors will be able to make that connection with us and we'll know it.  Good luck to all of the Jones' and we look forward to seeing what you bring to the table.



COMMENTS AND FAVORITE FACEBOOK THREADS

Gina Lee 
I am having lots of casting directors contact me who heard of me through the KSK site... I have referred lots of people I know in the biz to audition tapes of others... and a little bird told me big names in the business cruise in and take a look all the time... so perhaps that is what is happening... I know for sure a regular on this site contacted me to audition for a role in his short film, the Bud Light commercial and now The Producers casting people found me here... I may NEVER leave this site! loL




This post is give thanks for the food we had last night....Johnny, Tim and others! In New Orleans, I saw red beans/rice, jambalaya, cheese/ham/crackers, meat balls in sauce, some wonderful pralines.....




I JUST WANT TO SAY- I KNOW THAT SOME FELLOW SAID WE SHOULD NOT HAVE A PARTY UNTIL THE MOVIE IS OVER BUT-I TOO WOULD HAVE A MOVIE BEFORE. It was so important to make connections, network and to know the people that you may or may work with on KSK and or may work with on other projects in the future. It was such a pleasure meeting everyone and connecting with each and every one of you. I thank Dr. Mand Robby for putting the party together in Louisiana and for all the LA people coordinating with Louisiana so we could have so much fun SKYPING. Once again, thank you for putting this together everyone and coming. I wish you all the BEST OF LUCK AND ALWAYS LIVE YOUR DREAMS AND NEVER GIVE UP. Remember-"WHAT THE MIND CAN SEE AND BELIEVE IT CAN ACHIEVE" So plant the seeds, cultivate your thoughts, dreams and concepts and watch the grow-SUCCESS IS IN EVERY ONE OF YOU. xxxoooBonnie


One of my favorite photos from the party. Rockin' Dopsie! I was totally stoked!
Rockin Dopsie and Sabrita Gordon
"You go girl!"
Before you continue reading the comments made by KSK members, take a look at Rockin Dopsie getting down out our French Quarter Festival with The Tambourine Lady.  You got to love it.


Hey, hey, was any of our skype time captured on video last night? If so, that'd be great because there was some super high hilarity and good times that would be great to post up for continued gaffawing!

(On a side note: How funny that a show about psycho killing and mystery is full of such fun, lively, lighthearted folks who have such fun together and had a party that was as if it had been for a comedy! Now that's what I call theatre for real! Awwwww, yeah! ;)
Is everyone hung over this morning FROM LAST NIGHT'S KSK PARTIES? Awfully quiet on here. LOL

We had a great time tonight at the KSK party in La. It was great meeting some peeps from the fan site and hanging out....awesome!!!!!! Great pic with Dr. Mel and my wife.

Welcome, David Schulman!

Ryan De Sade Way and I want to thank everyone last night for making us feel so welcome~ it was great playing for you all, and everyone just so sweet! Angela and Natalie, gorgeous voices! We hada truly lovely time! It aw just difficult for us to socializ much with all the equipment there, I didn't wan anyone to trip. Funny thing is, I ended up being the one to trip on a cord. Lol. Thanks everyone! I could do the typed out name list, but it would truly take forever!! LOVE!!!!!!!!!

Vanessa Ross, prior blonde hair but now, natural brown hair! Ecstatic to still be "you nailed it" contender for Blaze!

Tonight's KSK Skype Party was really FUN! It was great to meet so many KSK 'friends' in person. I look forward to seeing all the pics and videos tomorrow :-)

It was a real pleasure meeting everyone at the LA Party and getting the brief chance to see Mel. A good time was had by all i think :)

Thanks to everyone that showed up for the NOLA KSK Fan Site Social...what a blast!!!

Ashley Ann Alvarado 
Ah man, me too :( I worked till 10:30 but sure it went beyond then... Guess that means, another party soon!!! Hope to meet you soon! :)

Sweating my ass of in Hollywood waiting to get called in for my audition and I'm wearin a frickin suit and tie lol

So nice meeting everyone last night!

Gypsy Elise live! Also Rockin Doopsie is in the house!!!!!!

Beautiful DH-Lewis-OUR MARILYN MONROE

After Trace Schroeder and I "STALKED" the 94th Aero Squadron and Gina Lee and DH Lewis draced their booties off....the walls blew out of the place from the LACA KSK Party...(bet CBevers is still in tact)

PICTURES OF THE WEEK

The plastic cup to prove you were at C Beevers 
A SPECIAL THANKS TO C BEAVERS FOR PUTTING  UP WITH KSK
Who are YOU???
Gypsy Elise and Dr. Mel
Bonnie Levinson and Carl Griffin
Gypsy Elise
DH Lewis
Jack Curenton and Gina Lee
Gina Lee



KSK Crowd Shot in New Orleans
Natalie Sharp in foreground
Tina Rubin, Tymothy Wyant, and Hannah Bickham
Tina Rubin and Johnny Rock
Natalie Sharp and Elvis Presley


Tina Rubin gives Dr. Mel a plaque from KSK Family
Johnny Rock, Tina Rubin, Dr. Mel, and Jerry Lopez
Johnny Rock, Tina Rubin, Dr. Mel, and Jerry Lopez
Dr. Mel thanks Tina Rubin
"You shouldn't have done this.  I'm speechless."
Tina Rubin explains plaque to Dr. Mel after presentation at KSK New Orleans party.



Jack Curenton
Alix Maria, Bonnie Levinson, and DH Lewis
Crowd Shot in Los Angeles
Diane Skyping to Los Angeles
Da Boyz - Jerry Lopez, Tymothy Wyant, and Challa Sabree
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph McRae


DH LEWIS - KSK'S Marilyn Monroe

Tymothy Wyant and Rockin Dopsie
Carl Griffin
Gypsy Elise, Challa Sabree and Tina Rubin


De'Chase Leveau, Johnny Rock, and Natalie Sharp

Challa Sabree and De'Chase Levoue

Johnny Rock 

Jack Curenton and Gina Lee

DH Lewis, Gina Lee, and Jack Curenton

Sam



TOP AUDITION PICKS IN THE FIRST ROUND  

Everyone, please remember these are some of Dr. Mel’s top picks and not all It is a growing list.  It also isn’t a callback list either.  YOU WILL BE NOTIFIED OFFICIALLY THROUGH AN E-MAIL.  LASTLY, WE ARE GETTING VERY CLOSE TO FINALIZING THE ENTIRE CALL BACK LIST.

Due to scheduling conflicts and the other shows I am currently producing, call backs have been set for August in both Los Angeles and New Orleans.  Dates for Los Angeles will be between August 9 -14.  Of course, not everyday, but that is the time I've set aside for Los Angeles.

Upon my return, we will begin the audition process for New Orleans and any actor on the call back list that can't come to the face to face auditions will have the opportunity to audition on Skype or Face Time.  We want to be able to see what you bring to the table.  And, please don't worry about an audition held on Skype as I do most of my production business on Skype. In fact, I work with screenwriters on the KSK pilot film that I have never met face to face; yet, I feel as if I know them very well.

So, without further delay, here is the updated "You Nailed It Auditions."  Several new names have been added in multiple roles.  Congratulations to everyone on this list.  You are to be commended.

THE YOU NAILED IT AUDITIONS


Matthew: Russell Klein, Ross Kelly, Will Kliptine, Greg DePetro, Kevin Snustead, Chad Ford, Dean Ghaffari, Steve Carl Griffin, Eric Flenner, Joe Wagner, Geryh Curtis, Evan Boymel, Ace Marrero (although he submitted for Alex), Stephen Martin, Jason Burghorn, Nathan Lucas, Jason Tobias, Jamal Kazak, Trace Schroeder (although he auditioned for Milo), Chris Waters, David Adolpho Gizzarelli,), Carl Schreiber, Mark Slater, Dedan Donavan, Gary Kauffman,  Jack Fry, Brandt Binkley (although he auditioned for Dr. Frank Franklin), Kenneth Sears, Mike Hennessey, Mrogan Jaye Williams, Dean Gaffari, Erik Nielsen, Eric Sharp, Robert Richardson, David Charles, Christopher Lewis, Edward Jones, Anthony Pierce, Kevin Riley, Matthew Donald Jones, Kevin Lewis, Peter Haroldson, Douglas Rogers, Justin Samuels, Gerald Smith, Victor Maze, Benjamin Todd, Lawrence Jones, Willis Martin, Eugene O’Neil, Billy Lancaster, Steve Ernst, Phillip Liles, Carlos Ruiz, Leonard Russel, Stanley Curtis, Dale Brankston, Theordore Clifford, Tom Oscar, Ronnie Maples, Bill Lyons, Wesley Hines, Zachary Mitchell, Corey Robertson, Brad Steigal, Ron Franklin, Jo Straus, Ben Ryan Metzger, Zach Zale,

BLAZE – Michelle Parent, Jennifer Gates, Codie Rimmer, Gwonwyn De Beer, Tera Garnett, Vanessa Ross, Katelyn Causey, Diane Lombardi, , Jamie Alyson, Bethany Regan, Lila Evans, Ashley Ann Alvarado, Annelise King, Chantelle Albers, Kaite Rotolo,

Dr. Garrick Angela:  Robert Fleet, Rob Steinberg (although he audtioned for Alex, I moved him over), Stuart McClay Smith, Julian Grant, John Henry Richardson, Ellery Truesdell, Doc Divecchio, Max Thayer (although he auditioned for Congressman Thompson), Jack E. Curenton, Joseph Steven (although he auditioned for Robby Z), Gariel Matthews, Ruben Stein, Brent Lester, Hector Mileford, Vernon Peterson, Rick Samuals,

Judas:  Challa Sabre, Jack E Curenton, Chip Carriere, Trace Schroeder, Craig Jeffcoat, John Percy Antonio Chavez, Rob Patterson, Don Rob, Stewart Strauss,

Milo Evans:  Will Rian, Rhoads Osbourne, Chris Swirles, Trace Schroeder, Challa Sabree, Timothy Wyant, John Wesley Cooley (listed under Leah Monnette), Casey Groves, Allen Merritt, Jeff Grey


Landlord:  DH Lewis, Jill Lachman, Billy Mayo, James Eakle, Marlynne Frierson- Cooley, Alice Finchum Bowden, Casey Garrett, Clifton Stokes, Willard Jones, Morris Jones, Ian Matthews, Hugh Maxim, Guy Fredrick, Sabrita Gordan, Stacy Miller, Travis Gerard, Lois Ferrington,

Professor Faust -  Kristin Samuelson, Buddy Daniels Friedman, Kristen Stewart, Erich Klain, Ron Elliot, Everett Booth, Merry Jo Cortada Pitasi, Bill Srkisian (although he auditioned for Dr. Garrick Angela), Julian Michaels, Byron Isaac Morris, Robert Fleetwood, Allan Stanford, Lance Prevost, Darren Smith, Lonnie Nelson, Pierce Stanley Smith,

Fortune Teller – Gypsy Elise

Ima Starr:  Ava St. Claire, Gino Galento, Aaron Groben, Kenneth Sears, James Turndale, Derrick Berry, Sam Evans, Jeffery Robinson,  

Congressman Thompson:  Max Thayer, Ronnie Powell, Kelly Whitehurst, Justin Little (although he auditioned for Matthew), Vic Harris, Rich Rubin (although he auditions for Snead), Douglas Olsen, James McCoy, Mike Tuttle @ culinarycasanove, , Johnnie White, Sidney Clove, Kelly Ostrichnique, Ken Sanders, Darren Ingles,

Janice Thompson Bennette: Bettina Devin, Ann Hagemann, Cedrick Cooks, Heether De Sisto, Kristina Hagan, Kisa Steele, Deborah Adair, Summer E. Sinclair, M. Daniela Torchia, Christopher Callen, Jennifer Rosario, Katie O’Hagan, Jacqueline Murphy, Gina Lee Gallareto, Mary Laina, Toni Youngblood (although she auditioned for CNC News Anchor), Robyn Hyden, Marcia French (although she auditioned for Robby Zieagar), Veera Mahajan,  T.J. Meyers, D.H. Lewis,

Peterson:  Sid Burston, Cris Cole, Escalante Lundy, Darius Green, Jesus Ruiz, Phillip M Polite, Bryan Theodore, Carlton Enoch, Alphonse Philippe Mouzon, Aarron Spivey Sorrells, Verolga Leilani (although she auditioned for Dr. E. Wright), Jeffrey Grays (although he auditioned for Milo), Challa Sabre (although he auditioned for Judas), Alphonse Philippe Mouzon, David Kieth Anderson, Kris Gordon, Laz Alonso, Malcom McDaniels, Nathan Pierce, Kyle Mortaga, Henry Saouza, George Fleeting, Gary Cornwell, James Tyler, Dennis Martin, William Abblebee, Ryan Frost, Todd Nonnenberg, Jumard Clinton,

Jones: Cathy Dobyns, Nancy DeBoe, Adam Parker, Bobbie Lee, Raven Lexy (although she auditioned for Janice Thompson), Joseph McRae (although he auditioned for Matthew), Isaac Depeyer (although he auditioned for Matthew), David Castro, Scarlette Martin, Will Rian (although he auditioned for Milo Evans), Karen Weza (although she auditioned for Dr. Wright), Silvia Moore, Shanna Forestall, Veronica Simpleton, Jasmine Forest, Virginia Elmwood, Lauren Michales, Shandra Baptist, Kelly Filmont, Meagan Fletcher, Maria Estrova,

George Newland: Eric Flenner, Gage Maverik, Seth Oserin (although he auditioned for Dr. Garrick), Vito Viscuso, Patrick McHale, Julian Hernandez, 

Rebecca Morrison:  Rush Wright, Lauren Holiday, Shanna Forrestall, Amanda Chism, Karen Weza (although she auditioned for Dr. Wright), Lydia DeSouza de Medeiros (although she auditioned for Dr. Wright), Jana Bozeman (although she auditioned for Dr. Wright), Colleen Parker (although she auditioned for Dr. Wright), Jessica Galinas (although she auditioned for Dr. Wright), Desiree Burgess

Robert Mendoza – Lance Trezona, Jose A Solorio, Rudy Garza, Luis Antonio, Jesus Ruiz,

Kelly Stratford: Katelyn Brooke, Alexa James, Kerry McCormick, Janab Davis, Breeze Marie, Marcia Anderson, Francis Thibodeaux, Mary Fitzgerald, LaShawn Garth,


Meagan Montgomery:  Nathalie Tedrick, Ilana Kitover, Meagan Pallares, Jennifer Peyton McDavitt, Hannah Bickham (although she auditioned for Blaze), Julie Wions, Glenn Ellen Anderson, Desiree Burgess, Kincaid Walker, Patty Miller, Melanie Hitchman,

Mag: Tera Garrett, Emily Wilson, Savannah Morgan, Heather Harvey, Savannah Schoenecker (although she auditioned for Meagan M.), Jennifer peyton McDavitt (although she auditioned for Meagan M.), Christian Drerup, Veronica Kelly, Caley Hayes, Brooke Coleman, Morgan Dickerson, Patty Miller, Marie Rousso, Abigal M. Ramirez, Jessica Seghers, Sarah Zurell, *Will Ritchie, Kincaid Walker,

Gunman 1: Pakelika,  William Moore, Aldo Juliano, Bobbie Lee, Mark Naji, Nico Falls, Steven Carl Griffin, Jeff Grays, Armando DuBon Jr., Jason L. Davis, 

Gunman 2:  Cali Muscle (although he auditioned for Milo), Jason Davis, Paul Vinson (although he auditioned for Milo),

Robby Ziegar: D Lawson, John Macey, Scott R. Wright, Robert Leh, Shobhit Agarwal, Steve Bartlett, Ron Elliot, Kenan Heppe,  Richard McKenzie Alistair, Anthony Castillo, Raquel Elizabeth Ames, Nancy DeBoe, Don Ronaldo, John Robert Macey III (although he auditioned for Faust), Joseph Steven, Brittany Samson, Blanca Avalos, Kidrowski Koppe, M Daniel Torchia, Sean Mount, Catherine Kirkland Burkeens, Bonnie Jane Levinson, Tierra Peters, Veronique Ledoux, Lisa Martel, Stephanie V. Williams, Stephanie Skinner (posted by Sher Myers), Leonard Kelly Young, Liam Stone, Annelise King, Jeffrey Jordon.

Jenni - Shannon Freyer, Aisha Alese, Sage Kairi, Cristy Joy, Judy Vasquez, Arona Spader (although she auditioned for Robby Z.), Rachel Amanda Bryant, Danielle Cohen (although she auditioned for Blaze), Alix Maria, Katy Dolle (although she auditioned for Meagan M.), Raychelle McDonald (although she submitted for three other roles), Natalie Sharp, Adelaide Lawren,Rimarria Appling, Iierra Peters, Ashliegh Frazier, Ashley Ann Alvarado, Connie Jo Segress, Kim Burns, Jenni Jones, Brooke Coleman,

Marge Greenberg: Ava D. Eadie, Linda Johnson, Carol Ann Scruggs, DH Lewis, Stevie Lorentzen (although she auditioned for the astrologer), Lilyn Anna (although she auditioned for Flores and Stephanie), Alice Finchum Bowden (although she audtioned for the Landlord), Lora Severn (although she auditioned for the astrologer), Phebe Bohart (although she auditioned for the astrologer), Helen Ray, Stephanie Mortaga, Alicia French, Rosemary Hill, Flora McIntyre, and Vanessa Strous. 

Kyle Flores - Bonnie Jane Levinson, Unique Moneek, Amanda Reed, Katelyn Gault,

Alex: Rocco Di Nobile, Morris Morgentaler, Paul Vinson, Robert DiTillio,  Dwight D. Coleman, Andrew Garrettson, Greg Gomes,Tim Oman (posted by TJ MYERS), Michael Villar, Prince Moore, Johnny Rock, Carl Schwaber (although he auditioned for Flores and Milo), Estaire Godinez,  Rhoads Osbourne (although he auditioned for Milo), Kent Gallegos,  

Dr. Elizabeth Wright: Adelicia Morris, Zoey Dean , Zoi Kottas, Marcia French, Katie O'Hagan, Tina D. Rubin, Kelly Lynn,Jennifer Rosario, Jacqueline Murphy, Hutchi Hancock, Julia Lynn Tockar (posted by Jesus Ruiz),Mary Laina, Rachel Whitman Groves, Nancy Beverly, Robin Lynn Rodney, Maura Lanahan, Jana Bozeman, Kelly Lynn Gitter, Leann Van Mol-Swisher,

Snead:  Mark Hoyle, William T Ensley, Victor DeLucie, Stephen Beal, Billy Mayo (although he audtioned for Landlord), Robert Leh, Tim Bob ThuderHorse Halpin (although he auditioned for Matthew), Steve Bartlett, Dane Haines, 

Hammer:  M Gerard Pavuk, Gary Kauffman (listed under Carlton Enoch who filmed it), William Lashbrook,

Lorenzo - John Caraccioli, Kennedy Moronta, Jash Salazar, Jamal Kazak (although he auditioned for Matthew), Ganno Nickell, Haunnard Uribe, Julio Mendez, Juan Carlos, Jorge Garcia, Laz T-Man Garcia, Alberto Mendoza, Harely Sosa, YTbooger973,

CNC Anchor:  Amy McGarry, Jessica Richmond, Ellery Truesdell, Graham Clarke, Clmesha McDaniel, Bill Pryor, Climesha McDaniel, Seth Oserin (although he auditioned for Dr. Garrick Angela), Toni Youngblood, Vito Viscuso, Kelly Lynn Gitter, Tanya Anticevic, Patricia Nangkal,

911 Operator Clarissa Guerro,

Malcom: Timothy Starks, Lance Trezona, D. McLeod, Giovanni Suriano, Nirav Bhakta (although his audition was for Robby Ziegar), Joel Cole, David Dickerson (although he auditioned for Robby Ziegar), Puneet Prasad, Sully Chaudhry (although he auditioned for Gunman), Seth Wade, Virgil Perry, Isaac Hayden, Jaime Falcon, Matthew Freedonholt,

News Director:  Stephanie Skinner (posted by Sher Myers (CNC), Ellery Truesdell, Rimarria Appling (although she auditioned for Dr. Wright), James McCoy, Jose Solorio,

Astrologer: Melinda Lee, Marlenne Sosebee, Raven Lexy, Veera Majakam. Analiese Anderson, Marcy Toschi, Jennie Floyd, Suzanne Stephens Breitenbach, Ava St. Claire, Katy Wolfe, Sandey Lock, Barabara Goodson (although she auditioned for landlord), Phyllis Chafe Comoletti, Nakja Hoyer-Booth, Bernadette Bonfiglio, Katarina Rose Fabic, Leann Van Mol, Vera Petrychenka, Susan Nash,


Dr. Frank Franklin:  Jason Flowers (audition is for Milo), Shobhit Agarwal (although he auditioned for George Newland), Claudine Claudio (female Dr. Franklin consider although she auditioned for Dr. Elizabeth Wright), Gage Maverick, Erick Klain (although he auditioned for Professor Faust), Diana Marzigliano (although she submitted for Janice T.), J. Patrick Wise (although he auditioned for Robby Ziegar), Michael Briggs, Anthony Castillo, Vicki Jo Costanzo, Christoph Dostal, Wanda Leigh,

Stephanie Winfield:  Madeline DeCourcey, Wanda Leigh, Leslie Gangl Howe, Diana Marzigliano, 

Cameraman -  Aaron Gorben,

Waitress - Susie Labry, Elizabeth Carder, Jen Starr, Margaret Gholston, Eugenia Care,

BODY GUARD - Prince Moore, James Eakle (although he auditioned for the Landlord) 

Mrs. Garrick Angela - Katt Shea (although she auditioned for the Landlord), Claire Ward Murphy (although she auditioned for the astrologer), Merry Jo Cortada Pitasi (although she auditioned for astrologer), Melinda Lee,

Tracy – Noreen Theriot,

*Foreign Correspondant – Verologa Leilani, Helene Cardona (will have to open this role up in the second round), Milena Gardasevic (although she auditioned for Jenni.)

Be sure to check out the new articles on the pages of The Actor's Slate, The Back Lot, and The Script Scene.