Thursday, June 28, 2012

Dr. Mel's Message - June 28, 2012


JUNE 28, 2012
VOL. 1 No. 5

DR. MEL'S MESSAGE FOR THE WEEK

Dr. Mel on the set of Dark Blue
Another great week in Hollywood South for my production team and I.  We have kept very busy working out all details for the callbacks scheduled for next month, or at the latest, the first week of August, in Los Angeles, New Orleans, and New York.  That is correct.  New York City has been added to the list as I will have to travel to the Big Apple during the last part of July for filming of the web-series 40 and Leroy. Like the  famous lyrics from On Broadway, "I going to make the best of it."

This may sound a bit strange, but I will get the opportunity to meet the actors of this series for the first time.  Up until this point everything has been completed by Skype or through a phone conversation.  Fortunately, I am part of a fantastic team that Reed McCants, creator and director of the series, established. One of which is Emmy Award winning director, Neema Barnette, one of three executive producers on the series. The other executive producer is Brian Holtz.

This week I will be focusing on the female characters in The Keystroke Killer and the potential cast candidates who participated in the online audition process.  I also include sections on:

Emmy Director Neema Barnette
Reel Nola Magazine
Update on web-series 40 and Leroy
Update on reality show Reel Um In
Update on the original trailer for The Keystroke Killer
Sizzle Reel for Dark Blue
KSK Audition Spotlights
Straight up Gossip on Celebrities
KSK Member Spotlights and Comments

I also have included a new page for screenwriters called The Script Scene, for screenwriters, as well as new articles in The Actor's Slate and The Back Lot pages.  Be sure to check out that information too.  Many readers of my blog have commented to me that it takes them more than one read to absorb the entire contents included in Dr. Mel's Message. With that in mind, take your time and come back often for the updates as I frequently add articles on the individual pages for actors, production crew, and now screenwriters. To visit these pages, click on the individual page Keytabs at the top of this blog. Current pages of my blog include:

  • The Home Page - Dr. Mel's Message
  • The Actor's Slate - covers tips and techniques for actors
  • The Back Lot - covers tips and techniques for crew
  • The Script Scene - covers tips and techniques for screenwriters
  • Girl Talk - not fully developed, but every once in a while a video of Robby, my associate producer and right-hand woman, and I just having fun and chit chatting
  • Ask Dr. Mel - a page dedicated to the most frequent questions I get and my answers
  • Books - a page dedicated for the numerous books I have written for reality show producers, independent filmmakers, and screenwriters
  • Official Dr. Mel Websites - several pages for my official profile website, production website, and different projects.
Now you can see why it takes more than on viewing to read the entire contents on my blog. And, don't forget to subscribe to be notified of updates and join in on the fun by becoming a follower. I look forward to bringing you new and informative information each week.

REEL NOLA MAGAZINE

This week the second issue of Reel Nola Magazine hit the presses. I was pleased with the the fact that they dedicated two pages in their magazine.  The first page, is the original One Pager for the short film The Keystroke Killer.  I found that very exciting. They also included an article about my blog. Check out the magazine at www.reelnola.com.  Thanks again Reel Nola Magazine for the support.

www.ReelNola.com
The original One Pager from the short film The Keystroke Killer.

NEEMA CAN!

Emmy Award Director Neema Barnette
Neema Barnette is a fantastic director as well as an executive producer.  I feel honored to be a part of her "A-Team."  And, for those of you who may not know what the "A-Team" is, it is the team that formed while filming the new T.D. Jakes film, Woman Thou Art Loosed:  On the Seventh Day, starring Blair Underwood, Pam Grier, Nicole Beharie, and Sharon Leal now playing in select theaters throughout America.  If you haven't watched this fantastic film, it is a must see one. At the very minimum, buy or rent it when it comes out on DVD.  Through Neema's directing artistry, a fabulous cast, beautiful cinematic images, and a well-written script by Cory Tynan, this film captures the essence of forgiveness. A powerful lesson from T.D. Jakes' ministry told in a captivating fashion. Like I said, you really don't want to miss your opportunity to see this film as it does have the power to change.

Anyway, while working on the film, On the Seventh Day, is where I had the honor of meeting both Neema and Reed McCants, creator and director of the web-series 40 and Leroy.  On the set, Neema's directing abilities really shine.  Not only in the directorial sense, but also in team creativity and dynamics.  She is the kind of director who allows cast and crew to bring their best to the table without question, seeks others opinions, and then make dynamic decisions to bring to audiences a powerful film.

During some of the face-to-face auditions in Louisiana, I had the distinct opportunity to film them for Neema and the producers of the film. Louisiana casting director, Tommye Myrick, was also there. Watching Neema and Tommye, as I filmed the auditions, was inspiring. Up until that point, the only casting experience I had was for my own projects, or working as a casting associate on Robosapiens. I learned a great deal from both Neema and Tommye about the casting process and the importance of selecting cast, that encapsulates the vision of the director and every essence of each individual character. "Every role in this film is a chance to bring an unique character to the film," Neema stated. "I want them to be unforgettable."

I'll never forget Neema's words on casting and how to select a dynamic cast. This is just one of the many essential elements of filmmaking I learned from her. Over the course of several months working on that film, and now having partnered with her as executive producers and with Reed on 40 and Leroy, I am still learning and amazed. Needless to say, I have nothing but admiration and respect for Neema.

Neema is more than just a director to me.  She is my inspiration and idol. When I grow up, I want to be just like her.  Who wouldn't?  How many people can say they directed The Bill Cosby Show?  Neema can.  How many people can say they have won an Emmy for directing?  Neema can. How many people can say they attended the AFI's prestigious Women's Directing Program.  Neema can. How many people can say they have directed nine motion pictures, various sitcoms, and numerous television series programs, such as Diagnosis Murder and Seventh Heaven?  You guessed it.  Neema Can.

Why all this about Neema Barnette?  To be honest, I am tapping into her creativity and skill as a director and asked her to direct The Keystroke Killer.  Up until this point, I have been keeping this information on the down low for a variety of reasons. If all goes well, Neema will be our director for The Keystroke Killer.   And, lastly, I would be remiss if I didn't ask Reed McCants to direct a couple of episodes too as he is an outstanding director and a veteran actor with more than 20 years of experience. So, the cat is out of the bag so to speak.

Like I have always stated, I believe in teamwork.  Nothing can be accomplished without a fabulous team in place. I know this. To quote the character I created, Dr. Garrick Angela, "Do you completely understand the ramifications?" I do. I completely understand and accept them as a part of this process.  And, I'm taking full direction from the example Neema put into place while filming On the Seventh Day - putting together an "A-team" which consists of producers, the director, cast, and crew. Once all of this is in place, I can't wait to hear Neema say, "It's a wrap!" 

Watch the trailer of Woman Thou Art Loosed:  On the Seventh Day below.

REEL UM IN

This past week I have also been busy with my reality show Reel Um In and isolating the footage I want for the sizzle reel.  It is coming along great.  The footage is breathtaking.  I can't wait to show you. More to follow on this wonderful reality show in the making.

THE SHORT FILM TRAILER -THE KEYSTROKE KILLER

I have made progress with executive producer Mark Freehelm on allowing me to show everyone some clips from the original short film The Keystroke Killer that became an overnight sensation.  If you recall, you can't find the short film anywhere anymore due to my contract.  They made be pull off everything from the internet for a variety of reasons.  

First, the short film version and the television feature film and series are like night and day as are most shorts versus the feature.  

New characters were created, the plot twist shifted, it now takes place in New Orleans and not New York, Matthew is now a private investigator and not a detective and so forth.

Also, the short film was shot with an extremely low budget in standard definition.  It was my first attempt at a project on my own.  Not only did I write it, I produced it, filmed it and edited it.  I really didn't know what I was doing back then.  But, something caught the attention of a great deal of viewers.  Anyway, I do have permission to "Re-edit" the official 2009 trailer made for the short film as long as I don't show too much.  So, I'll be working on that in the following weeks and hopefully by the time face-to-face auditions get here, I'll have it in my blog.

The original One Pager for the short film The Keystroke Killer
Illustration from the book How to Create a One Pager:  Quick Guidebook for ScreenwritersAvailable on Amazon.com
Author of short film and book:  Dr. Melissa Caudle


DARK BLUE

Producer/Director/Screenwriter: David C Kirland
Producer: Dr. Melissa Caudle
Director of Photography: Andy Sparraco
Status: In Post Production
Last year I had the honor of working with director David C. Kirtland, screenwriter and director of the independent film Dark Blue that we produced together.  His company, New Guy Films, and my production company, On the Lot Productions, LLC, joined our talented teams to create a wonderful and powerful film. Fantastic actors were cast including the fantastic Lance Nichols, of Treme and Curios Case of Benjamin Buttons with Brad Pitt.  Other actors in this film include Tracy Miller, Shanna Forrestall, Blake Palmenitier, Doc Whitney, Escalante Lundy, and a couple of members of the KSK members.  These members include Wanda Leigh and Johnny Rock.

Andy Sparacco, our Director of Photography (DOP), provided us with his expertise and lighting creating the perfect film noir look David and I were after.  Andy is truly a gifted DOP and Dave and I look forward to working with him on additional projects. I love working with gifted and talented individuals in the film industry. Over the last several years, I have been fortunate enough to work with many talented cast and crew. The footage you will be able to view in the sizzle reel demonstrates Andy's expertise as a DOP and David's gift as a director.

Dr. Mel Caudle, Andy Sparraco, and David C. Kirtland discuss an upcoming shot for Dark Blue.
New Orleans, a city renowned for its corruption in politics, provides a backdrop to the strong storyline of Dark Blue. Detective Michael Callaghan, portrayed by Tracy Miller, arrives on the scene of a murder of a gambling facilitator which he himself is the likely suspect. His long-time partner William Pawelski, played by Doc Whitney, suddenly announces his retirement, leaving Callaghan faced with Detective Danny Hopkins, portrayed by Blake Palmenitier, a young eager detective fresh of a two year stint with narcotics.  As his world crashes around him he turns to his prostitute lover Annie, portrayed by Shanna Forrestall.  Tensions mount as Internal Affairs officers tighten the screws on the precinct.

David, as the screenwriter and director had a vision for Dark Blue - an elegant film noir surrounded by a dark ominous undercut.  "The film is about beautifully flawed characters that manipulate themselves through human deficiencies," David said. "It is a statement on corruption and breakdown on society in modern day urban cities.  The story-line came as a culmination of my favorite film noir characters that created the genre.  It was a legacy that this genre gave and I want to salute them in return." 

I have included for you the first sizzle reel David and I created  plus an interview with me about the film and casting process.  



Like The Keystroke Killer Fan Site on Facebook, Dark Blue also has a page. If you would like to look at some the stills from the film shoot, feel free to join that site.    

THERE'S SOMETHING IN MY HEAD

The latest episode of 40 and Leroy is out and simply put, it is funny.  Join the crazy antics of 40 and Leroy as this comedic duo begin to investigate what is going on with hearing "Voices" in their heads.  The plot of this wacky sitcom web-series takes on a all new approach and begins to reveal some strange activity.  We will begin to see more and more as the plot thickens.  If you haven't seen any of the web series I suggest that you start at the beginning.  Or, at least at the beginning of Season 3, to catch up.  Join in on the fun at:
www.40andleroy.com.  You won't be sorry you did.


STRAIGHT UP GOSSIP

And speaking of 40 and Leroy, have you seen what they have added to their site this week?  Now anyone can find the latest gossip on celebrities from the viewpoint of 40 and Leroy.  Like the comedy duo, you don't know what to believe.  Check it out by clicking on the icon below.


WEB-SERIES PROMOS FOR KSK MEMBERS

Over the last several months I have really enjoyed viewing the short films and web-series that members of the KSK group has provided.  This week I am spotlighting a couple of more "Must Sees." If you can't tell by now, I really love supporting other producer's work. That is what the independent film industry is all about.

First up is I Will Love (The Series) submitted by Dan Saad, KSK member, who also acts in this web-series.  It is a teaser trailer from a web-series by Kristen Hansen. The plot is centered around a woman who finds out that she was born a hermaphrodite.  Check it out below.


It is also my understanding the the producer's of I Will Love is currently looking for original music for the series. Interested musicians are encouraged to visit their website for more information. 

NEW ORLEANS LADIES

Over the years I have had the most amazing experiences getting to know some of the best musicians everywhere.  One of my favorite is Louisiana LeRoux, who is best know for the song New Orleans Ladies.  When I was in my 30s, I spent many a Friday night at a club called Chehardy's.  The club no longer exists, but at the time, it was the piano bar to attend.  It was there that I met this fabulous group. Louisiana LeRoux has also been inducted into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame.

As a spotlight to all the New Orleans ladies, and those that may be coming from around the globe to be part of The Keystroke Killer, I thought I'd share a little bit of history with this song as I start to discuss the female roles and strong performances from the online audition process.  It's ladies week.    




Also in honor of "Ladies Week" is the blast from the past with Kool and The Gang and It's Ladies Night.


KSK MEMBER SUMMER SINCLAIR'S MUSIC

Just came across another KSK member's music.  And, since this week's blog is focusing on the Ladies of KSK, I wanted to include Summer's song called Destiny.  I felt the song is appropriate and inspirational for what everyone of us are trying to achieve together.  Congrats Summer on a wonderful song.


Tera Garrett, we are still waiting on yours!

THE WOMAN OF KSK

Since the beginning of Hollywood film's the roles for female actors have been limited.  There seemed to be a vast difference in opportunities for woman.  Strong woman roles simply did not exist until Jodie Foster came along in Silence of the Lambs and Diane Keaton in Annie Hall.  All of that started to change as Susan Sarandon took the stage in the film Dead Man Walking.  As a woman, I would be remiss not to have strong female roles in The Keystroke Killer.  And, that is exactly what I have written into the scripts with fantastic characters with Blaze Angela, Mag and Jennie, Dr. Elizabeth Wright, Janice Thompson, Kelly Stratford, Marge Greenberg, and Meagan Montgomery.  The woman who will be chosen for these roles will not only have the acting ability for the character portrayal, but will also be confident and strong woman.  None of these characters are stereotypical and all of them thrive on their own individual power.  So who are these characters, what drives them, and who gave outstanding performances in the online auditions?

BLAZE ANGELA

Blaze, although she is young, age 21-22, it doesn't mean she lacks for drive, ambition, or intelligence.  If anything, it is quite the opposite.  After all, Blaze is the daughter of Dr. Garrick Angela.  That in itself marks her as powerful.  Who would want to mess with the daughter of the founder of the Dimension Project?  Would you?  Okay, maybe Tymothy Wyant, Challa Sabree, Jack Curenton, or Chris Swirles would, but they are in a class in and of themselves.  But for Blaze, she exudes a built in confidence because of the manner in which she was raised.

Blaze had every opportunity in the world and every thing she ever wanted or needed.  She chose to stay home and attend a prestigious local university that is heavily endowed by her father's philanthropic funding.  In fact, the building in which she attends her psychology classes is called the Dr. Garrick Angela building. With this prestige, you might think that she would be self-centered.  But, this isn't the case.  She is very balanced and has the determination and fight to do things in her own way often defying her father's wishes.  Because of this defiance, she gets into trouble at an early age and hangs with the wrong crowd.  Thus, her Lorenzo Garcia connection.  There is also a certain innocence to Blaze.

Several actresses gave outstanding performances during the online audition process for Blaze which includes: Tera Garnett, Vaness Ross, Kaite Rotolo, Lila Evans, Jamie Alyson, and Bethany Regan. There are others including Chantelle Albers and Ashley Ann Alvarado.  It is going to be difficult as the competition is strong.  Out of all of the Blaze auditions we received, I would say there are 17 strong candidates for this role in total. Although there were plenty of strong auditions, many of them did not meet the age requirement necessary to pull of this role.  Blaze simply cannot be a 30-year-old woman portraying a freshman at a university.  Therefore, many strong auditions for Blaze, were moved into other categories for consideration including Janice Thompson and Professor Faust.

DR. ELIZABETH WRIGHT

Between Dr. Elizabeth Wright and Janice Thompson, as the creator and head screenwriter of the script, I'm not even sure which female role is the stronger of the two.  Both are very strong and powerful leading lady roles that requires the actress to be able to demonstrate power and confidence, while maintaining her "Womanhood."  However, of the two, Dr. Wright, will also have the challenge of showing a weakness to her character - she doesn't like to be the center of attention and would rather avoid large crowds and gatherings.    But because of her books being on the best-selling list,and the constant attention she attracts from the media, she is put in the spotlight far too much in her own opinion.  This is something that is an inner conflict with herself that she only allows Matthew to witness.

In the role of Dr. Elizabeth Wright, many outstanding performances surfaced that caught the KSK casting team's attention.  These include the performances of  Tina D. Rubin, Jennifer Rosario, Jacqueline Murphy, Marcia French, Jana Bozeman, Kelly Lynn itter, Leann Van Mol-Swisher and Hutchi Hancock.  There are more including about 22 others who will receive a call back.  

What attracts us to these ladies is not only their acting ability, but also their presence and body language they demonstrated during the online auditions.  When we review these auditions, using our Rating Audition Checklist for this character, each of these actresses nailed the body language. Likewise, most met the challenge of "Acting Through" the action descriptions of the scenes provided. For instance, Tina Rubins, body language and eye contact, with Professor Faust as she was being introduced to the class, caught our attention.  In this example, it wasn't what she said, it was what she did with her eyes and facial expressions.  We will look for this in our face-to-face callbacks.


JANICE THOMPSON-BENNETT

Being the wife of a congressman Janice Thompson-Bennett not only represents herself, she represents her husband.  In her own right, she is at the top of her profession as she is part of the legal team who works with the Central Intelligence Agency.  Given her title and profession, she is no push-over and demonstrates the confidence a lawyer must have to win cases. She never loses and doesn't plan on starting now. With that said, she has to be number one and anything but that is an insult to her.  Therefore, we she suspects her husband of having an affair, she isn't willing to simply brush it off and makes a plan with Matthew.

To portray this character, the female chosen for this role will have to not only look powerful, but speak with power much like when E.F. Hutton speaks, we all listen.  That is Janice Thompson Bennett.  Females who gave us these parameters in their online auditions include: Summer E. Sinclair, Marcia French, Veera Mahajan, Heather De Sisto, M. Daniela Torchia, Christopher Callen, Jennifer Rosario, Gina Lee Gallareto, and Mary Laina.  As the longshot, we are also considering T.J. Meyers.  Then the sleeper in this category just may be D.H. Lewis.  Although D.H. Lewis submitted for Professor Faust and her Landlord performance was in the top three, we want to see her in this role. This all came about this week.

During the face-to-face auditions for Janice, we fully expect the ladies to bring in strong auditions which will make our decision in casting very difficult.  There really isn't a strong leaning toward one female actor over another as the KSK casting team is split.  We all have our favorites.  The defining moment will be during the face-to-face auditions.

KELLY STRATFORD

Kelly Stratford's character is a very strong role for a female.  Not only is Kelly physically fit, she is a strong woman in the sense she isn't afraid of anyone. Because she is a female undercover police officer, she feels as if she as something to prove to the men. At first, the men on her team don't respect her and give her a hard time. That is, until she saves one of them and then leads the team close to Milo Evans.  By the time Matthew comes into the her life, she is already established as a strong female officer. They have their first encounter during a robbery at a service station where Kelly is undercover. Matthew makes the mistake of taking her for a simple "Store Clerk,"  Kelly doesn't waste any time setting Matthew straight. This is part of her character. Because of the nature of this role, the actress who is cast in this role will need to be physically fit and having training in martial arts or as a stunt woman would hurt either. In fact, if the acting ability is there along with the physical training, I think it would give the actress a bonus ticket to the top of the list during the face-to-face auditions.

Actresses who delivered outstanding online auditions for Kelly Stratford include:  Kerry McCormick, Alexa James, Breeze Maria, Janab Davis, Marci Anderson, Francis Thibodeaux, and Mary Fitzgerald.  

MEAGAN MONTGOMERY

Sweet, sweet, Meagan Montgomery.  Or, is she? Meagan is a complex character in that she isn't as sweet and innocent as one would think. In fact, there is a manipulative deception side to her that seeks power. She has learned to use her Southern charm to her advantage. The actress who is cast in this role will have to provide the KSK casting team wtih a double whammy.  Meaning, the looks of a sweet, sweet, southern belle, with deceptive mannerisms and body language. It will be a challenge for any actress, but we feel confident that one of the following ladies as well as 11 others will be able to bring this role justice.  The actresses include: Nathalie Tedrick, LLana Kitover, Meagan Pallares, Jennifer Peyton McDaitt, Hannah Bickhan, Julie Wions, Glenn Ellen Anderson, Desiree Burgess, Kincaid, Walker, Patty Miller, Vanessa Milton, Katherine Hodge, and Melanie Hitchman,

The big question for this role will be, "Will a true Southern girl get cast?"  We'll just have to wait and see after the face-to-face auditions.

MARGE GREENBERG

Being the wife of Judas isn't easy. Marge has to be an intelligent woman in her own right because she married a genius.  Judas invented the Dimension Project and Marge was one of the scientist on that team.  Therefore, don't mistake this lady as your typical stay at home wife. There is a reason she no longer works for Dr. Angela. All of this will come out in the series.

In this category several woman fit the casting breakdown to a tee and delivered a powerful performance for this role. These ladies include: Linda Johnson, Carol Ann Scruggs, DH Lewis, Stevie Lorentzen, Lylyn Anna, Alice Finchum Bowden, Lora Severn, Phebe Bohart, Helen Ray, Stephanie Mortaga, Alicia French, Rosemary Hill, Flora McIntyre, and Vanessa Strous.

THE TWO IN THE THREE MUSKATEERS

Blaze has two best-friends, Mag and Jenni, who comprise the three Muskateers.  They are always together and stick by each other no matter what.  Knowing the character of Blaze, Mag and Jenni must balance her. Where Blaze is weak, the other two must be strong. Blaze is a brunette. Mag is blond and Jennie is either going to have black or red hair. No matter what, the three will form a balance.

Actresses that delivered an outstanding performance for Mag include: Veronica Kelly,  Tera Garrett, Savannah Schoenecker, Jennifer Peyton McDavitt, Christian Drerup, Caley Hayes, Brooke Coleman, Morgan Dickerson, Patty Miller, and Marie Rousso. Additionally there are about 40 others who will receive a call back.

Up for the role of Jennie include: Aisha Alese, Sage Kairi, Cristy Joy, Judy Vasquez, Arona Spader, Rachel Amanda Bryant, Danielle Cohen, Alix Maria, Katy Dolle, Rachelle McDonald, Natalie Sharp, Adelaide Lawren, Rimarria Appling, and about 18 others.

Note: The role of Rebecca Morrison will be discussed with the News Team and Stephanie Winfield will be discussed in a specialty role. The role of Mrs. Garrick Angela will be discussed during the second round as we will need to open this role as it as not been officially opened.


KSK MEMBER COMMENTS

Each week I have spotlighted a couple of really great comments made by KSK members.  If you missed some of these, I really loved them.
  • Colleen Parker - So thanks to the post where we all liked each other on IMDb, my starmeter went from 131,515 last week to 69,776 this weeks! Thanks to all! And to keep that going, I will post to all of your message boards from time to time. That way, even though we can only reap the benefit of the likes once, we can periodically keep the number rising.
  • Lisa Martel - HOLA my KSK family. Since we've been visiting each others IMDb pages, I though you might be interested in this... it's FREE to try and WAY CHEAP to keep. Karmalicity... you visit each other's IMDb pages and because you have an increase in views, your Star Meter goes up. Actors supporting each other... good karma! When I started I was around 200,000 and now I'm at about 27,000. Plus you make great connections with other actors there - I've had 2 auditions from people I met on the site. Check it out! I'm loving it.
  • Jesus Cesar - Just read up on blog from wk its loaded with details so all you Actors follow directions because there not writing all this material for nothing good stuff and the funny anniversary clip is there to anyways back to wk later Ksk fan site God bless.
  • Summer E. Sinclair - For anyone in doubt of the online casting trend, I got booked for a featured singing role in the new Jason Alexander musical film "Lucky Stiff" off just my headshot & YouTube channel! Just got fitted for my 70's London costume today @ Universal back lot, learned my music, and I'm shooting on set tomorrow!
  • Deborah Cresswell - Best of luck to everyone!!! I saw some very terrific auditions throughout this process! And loved the blog as always Melissa -- and Robby, too! Interesting stuff/fun read!
  • Gina Lee - Is the blog out?
  • Tina D. Rubin - Wow! Melissa and Robby, i think that was this best blog yet! well, it least until you get to the ladies. Lol, kidding. What a week the 2 of you had!!! Melissa with computers crashing and all the work catching up on projects and Robby having to post the same thing over and over!.. I really enjoyed the music as well. I absolutely love Redline, by Gypsie Elise and have ready voted and i will definitely purchase that cd!!!..Ok, i'ts 2:38 am my time, so i'm going to bed. Good nite to all of the KSK :)

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.
THE YOU NAILED IT AUDITIONS


Matthew: Geryh Curtis, Evan Boymel, Ace Marrero (although he submitted for Alex), Stephen Martin, Jason Burghorn, Steven Carl Griffin, 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,

BLAZE – 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, Tea Asatiani,

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, John Henry Richardson, Julian Grant, Joseph Steven (although he auditioned for Robby Z), Gariel Matthews, Ruben Stein, Brent Lester, Hector Mileford, Clyde Jones, Vernon Peterson, Rick Samuals,

Judas:  Challa Sabree, Jack E Curenton, Chip Carriere, Trace Schroeder, Craig Jeffcoat, John Percy Antonio Chavez, Rob Patterson, Sean Fletcher,

Milo Evans:  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


Professor Faust -  Kristen Stewart, Erich Klain, Ron Elliot, Everett Booth, Erich Klain, 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, Emmanuel Afuwape,  

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

Janice Thompson Bennette: 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, HEATHER De Sisto, T.J. Meyers, D.H. Lewis, Gina Lee,

Peterson:  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, Kris Gordon, Laz Alonso, Malcom McDaniels, Nathan Pierce, Kyle Mortaga, Henry Saouza, George Fleeting, Gary Cornwell, James Tyler, Dennis Martin, William Abblebee, Ryan Frost,

Jones:  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: Gage Maverik, Seth Oserin (although he auditioned for Dr. Garrick), Vito Viscuso, Patrick McHale, Julian Hernandez, Clifford Neil, Jumard Clinton, 

Rebecca Morrison:  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, Shannon Going (although she auditioned for Dr. Elizabeth Wright, Stephanie Terronez (although she auditioned for Dr. E. Wright(, Leah Stolz (although she auditioned for Dr. Wright),

Robert Mendoza – Rudy Garza, Eduardo Aponte, Andre Bauth, Michael Gavino, Reynaldo Rivera, Lance Trezona, Eliezer Ortiz, Vito Viscuso, Jesus Ruiz,

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

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, Nancy Beverly (although she auditioned for Dr. Elizabeth Wright).

Mag:  Tera Garrett, 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,

Gunman 1:  Bobbie Lee, Mark Naji, Nico Falls, Steven Carl Griffin, Jeff Grays, Armando DuBon Jr., Jason L. Davis, Dante Dumas, Narayana Cabral, Aaron Spivey-Sorrells, 

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

Robby Ziegar:  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), D. Lawson, Jeffrey Jordan, Blanca Avalos, Lisa Martel,

Jenni - 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, Natalie Sharp, Rimarria Appling, Leah Stoltz (although she auditioned for Dr. E. Wright), Blanco

Marge Greenberg:  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: 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:  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:  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),

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

Lorenzo - Kennedy Moronta, Eduardo Aponte, 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,

CNC Anchor:  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: 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:  Marcy Toschi, Jennie Floyd, Suzanne Stephens Breitenbach, Ava St. Claire, Katy Wolfe, Melinda Lee, 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, Melinda Lee,

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, Madara Jayasena,

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), John Henry Richardson, 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.)