Independent Streak Magazine -- August 2015 by Rachel Galvin

I NDEPENDENT STREAK M AGAZI NE AUGUST 2015

Dev i n Ratray Tal k s " M astermi nds" "TheShif t " Dir ector Lee Cipolla

MONTHLY

48H FP W i n n er s "S m ot h er ed by M ot h er s"

Gets Reflective "Mar s hl and "

Spain's Myst er ious and Gr ipping Thr iller comes t o Flor ida

6 Films for $55 Fi l mmak e r Gr ant s

Boca Bl ack Fi l m Fest i v al

Bur t Reyno l ds Honori ng" Th e Bandi t"

Fi l m Ca r p et

4 .0

www.independent st reakmagazine.com

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48HFP WI NNERS The 48 Hour Film Project (48HFP) ended another successful year. Congrats to all who entered and had their films shown and all of the winners, listed below. Pict ured: (Above): 1310 Bandit s show of f t heir wins. (Right ): Direct or Tabat ha Mudra is overwhel med af t er winning Best Fil m and a whol e bunch more awards!

1st Pl ace: Best Fil m of 2015 Souvenir by 1310 Bandits 2nd Pl ace: Best Fil m of 2015 Eat Your Wheaties by Big Foot Productions 3rd Pl ace: Best Fil m of 2015 1 Nuro by Lonely Avocado

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Audience Favorit e: Group A Creepy Pasta by Samurai Snacks Productions Audience Favorit e: Group B The Stakeout by Transient Films Audience Favorit e: Group C Souvenir by 1310 Bandits Audience Favorit e: Group D Eat Your Wheaties by Big Foot Productions Best Writ ing Eat Your Wheaties by Big Foot Productions Best Edit ing Souvenir by 1310 Bandits Best Direct ing Souvenir by 1310 Bandits Best Cinemat ography Souvenir by 1310 Bandits Best Sound Design Souvenir by 1310 Bandits Best Musical Score Souvenir by 1310 Bandits Best Act or Jan van der Baan Eat Your Wheaties by Big Foot Productions Best Act ress

Wilson Sayre Nuro by Lonely Avocado Best Graphics Creepy Pasta by Samurai Snacks Productions Best Cost umes Club_OmiCron by Four Actors One Camera Best Use of Charact er Where's Uncle George? by Honey Badgers Best Use of Prop Food for Thought by Majestic Productions Best Use of Line Nuro by Lonely Avocado

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Let t er f rom t he Publ isher August ... For many, it is back to school time! No matter how old you are, you can always learn something. Maybe it is time to hit the books. Brush up on skills you already know. Learn something new. Maybe now is the time to invest in an acting class ... even if you are a director. You would be amazed how C o m iC - C o n much you can learn from stepping in Phot os by David Decio someone else's shoes. This also works As usual, San Diego's Comic-Con (July 9-12) brought in plenty vice versa. Actors should know the of cosplayers and film fans from around the globe, which production side of things too. It helps you better understand why a director asks for certain things. equaled plenty of long lines. There were exciting sneak peeks of movies like "Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice," Anytime an actor can add a new skill to their resume, it helps. Learn "Deadpool," "Star Wars: The Force Awakens," "Suicide how to play a sport, do martial arts or even drive a stick shift. Any Squad," as well as "Ash Vs. Evil Dead" and many more. item you can add is worth it. Find out more about Comic-Con at www.comic-con.org. Filmmakers can spend some time reading up on the newest camera or the latest trends in cinematography. Keep an open mind and always look for opportunities . Break a leg! --Rachel Gal vin *Condolences to the victims of the movie theater shooting in Lafayette, LA. Any times mentioned in the magazine are Eastern Standard Time (EST) unless noted otherwise. The publisher does not necessarily endorse any advertisements in the mag.

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SEE INDEPENDENT FILMS weekl y at : - Cinema Par adiso -- Ft . Lauder dal e 503 SE 6t h St , Fort Lauderdal e, FL 33301

- Cinema Par adiso - - Hol lywood 2008 Hol l ywood Bl vd., Hol l ywood, FL 33019

www.fliff.com/ Films_and_Events.

"Br eak ing Br ead " Needs dough "Breaking Bread," a serious documentary by Florida filmmaker Kirk Gillon,follows the story of Arnold Abbott, a 90-year-old Florida resident thrust into the spotlight after being arrested Nov. 5, 2014 for feeding the homeless. This year, he will face the possibility of jail time. He is not the only one to have been arrested. Local pastors and others have also been arrested for going against this city ordinance. Gillon wanted to do his part to help against what he felt was a travesty of justice. He is currently seeking finalization funds for his film. Ten percent of the proceeds will help with Abbott's legal fees and/ or to his foundation to continue is fight. To f ind out more, visit : www.indiegogo.com/ project s/ breaking-bread-f inal izat ion-f unds# / st ory

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St ay i n -t h e-k n o w : - www.independent st reakmagazine.com - www.f acebook.com/ indiest reak

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"Pat ient Kil l er"

FILM MIAMI FEST

on Lif et ime Congrats to Florida's own Barbie Castro for having a second film shown on "Lifetime." It was not that long ago that "Assumed Memories" was shown. Now, on Aug. 2 and 3, she had "Patient Killer" on TV. The film was created in Florida and had its official release Jan. 2015, although it was shown at the Ft. Lauderdale International Film Festival in 2014 where it won the Spirit of the Did you go to Film Miami Fest? Held July 23 to 25, this fest featured Independent Award. short films from around the world. It was founded by Cesar Ricardo Nunez, multi-Emmy winning director, producer and cinematographer. Directed by CasperVan Dien, the film stars Van Dien, as well as Victoria Pratt, Patrick Muldoon, Stacey Dash and This was the first year. If you missed it, check it out for next year. many others, including locals like Barbie Castro (also Visit www.f il mmiamif est .org. producer), Chris Marks, Keri Maletto and others. The murderous mystery follows a psychiatrist who suggests hypnosis to uncover a patient's nightmares not realizing the deadly consequences. Pict ure t aken at Fil m Miami Fest Award Ceremony. Phot o provided by Izzy Mart inez.

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Fil m Review:

"Trainwreck" By Sam Al l en

"Trainwreck" is easily my favorite romantic comedy this year and maybe of all time. The film follows Amy Townsend, played by Amy Schumer, whose party-girl lifestyle is challenged when she falls for a sports surgeon named Aaron Conners, played by Bill Hader. I had worried that this film would be nothing more than a bunch of recycled jokes from Schumer?s show, "Inside Amy Schumer;" however, the film managed to defy my expectations. Schumer has written a wonderful feminist romantic comedy that avoids being an outright chick flick, appealing to both men and women. The film was enriched by the relationship of Amy and her father Gordon, played by Colin Quinn, whom she takes after. This relationship showed that, though Amy is afraid of commitment, she is an empathetic person who cares deeply for others. Similarly, the relationship between Aaron and LeBron James, who plays himself, takes the opposite approach of most male characters in romantic comedies. The gender roles in "Trainwreck" are somewhat flipped by having LeBron and 5 Aaron discuss their delight at the possibility of a budding

relationship with Amy. This was a welcomed change of pace and added not only to the humor of the film, but the authenticity of the characters. The feminist aspects of the film are what set it apart from the rest. "Trainwreck" discusses the dangers of Amy?s lifestyle without shaming her for it. The characters are interesting and three-dimensional, each having their own goals and aspirations. This film is a step in the right direction. It had me laughing hysterically throughout and, at times, had me crying. I hope to see more films like this in the future. "Trainwreck" is what romantic comedies should aspire to be: fun, hilarious and emotionally gripping. www.sammal l en.wordpress.com

Be the change you want to see ... Connecting one heart at a time:

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Bo c a Bl ac k Fil m Fes t ival

Palm Beach Jew ish Film Festival See 6 Fi l ms f or $ 55 MOVIES: TO LIFE (A La Vie) Aug. 4, 7 p.m Mandel JCC Aug. 5, 4 p.m. Cinemark Palace

SILICON WADI Aug. 25, 7 p.m. Mandel JCC

I NDEPENDENT Aug. 26, 4 p.m. Cinemark Palace STREAK

SLEEPING WITH THE FISHES Aug. 11, 7 p.m. Mandel JCC Aug. 12, 4 p.m. Cinemark Palace FRANK VS. GOD Aug. 18, 7 p.m. Mandel JCC

Created by Lizabeth and Dhima Martin, this festival, held July 16 to 18, celebrated dedicated black filmmakers who capture the community in a

LOCATIONS: Cinemark Pal ace 1151 N. Congress Avenue, Boynton Beach, FL 33426 Mandel JCC 5221 Hood Rd. Palm Beach Gardens , FL 33418

Det ail s:

unique way. The three-day event included film screenings, workshops, discussions, roundtables, seminars, classes and more. Pict ures t aken at Embassy Suit es Hot el , Boca Rat on, FL: Above: (L t o R): JoMarie Payt on, Chet achi A. Egwu, Lizbet h Mart in and Frank Eberl ing. Phot o provided by Robert S Weinrot h. Right : Fel icia D. Moore.

www.palmbeachjewishfilm.org

Aug. 19, 4 p.m. Cinemark Palace

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"List en t o Me Marl on" Thursday, Aug. 13, 7 p.m. Ol ympia Theat er at Gusman Cent er 174 E. Fl agl er St , Miami 33131 Find out what drove the passionate actor Marlo Brando in this film dubbed a masterpiece by the "Village Voice." The 95-minute documentary, directed by Stevan Riley, follows Brando's life using his own words to uncover his story. Get FREE tickets by joining the Miami Film Society. Visit ht t p:/ / miamif il mf est ival .com/ august -screening f or inf o. and t icket s.

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It 's not t he end of t he w or ld I t's just a film contest... The End of Days Film Challengeis a 30-day Apocalyptic filmmaking competition where registered teams create a short film with an Apocalyptic theme depicting theend of society or the world!Beginning Aug.28, teams will have 30 days to write, shoot, edit and score their film. Feel free to add zombies, aliens, vampires, ghosts, viruses, asteroids, nuclear war, or political or economic takeover; just make sure it revolves around the world as we know it coming to an end. But, it can have a happy ending.

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HOW IT WORKS Have your team leader register your team (U.S. residents only). On Aug. 28 at 6 p.m., the team leader will receive a secret email that details the elements that must be included in each film. At that point, the team has 30 days, to write, shoot, edit and deliver their best 8 - 12 minute Apocalyptic film showcasing the End of Days. Film submissions must be compl et el y upl oaded by Sept . 28 at 11:59 p.m. Films will be eligible for awards. ht t p:/ / endof daysf il mchal l enge.com

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Lee Cipo l l a Gets Reflective By Rachel Gal vin Last year at the 1st annual Wide Screen Film & Music Video Festival, "The Shift" won Best Feature, and best actress for Casey Fitzgerald. It also won the Audience Award for Best Feature in 2013 at the Palm Beach International Film Festival. Director Lee Cipolla spoke with I.S. about the process of putting this film together and how he overcame obstacles to get Danny Glover to be part of the production. Synopsis: The film stars Leo Oliva, who plays Kayle, a veteran nurse who, while haunted with guilt over his brother's drowning, is forced to train a new nurse (Casey Fitzgerald), who he is at odds with. One of the things they disagree with is how to deal with patients. Kayle, who was trained by Floyd (Danny Glover), believes in doing whatever is best for the patient, even if that means letting them rest in peace. believes you should fight for everyone until 9 Amanda there is nothing left. While Kayle and Amanda take care

of several patients that night, there is one patient, a young girl named Emily (Genesis Ochoa), who makes them question their beliefs. Emily is dying of cancer and has come to the ER due to another infection. The dichotomy of Emily's bravery and her mother's distress eats at the hearts of the two nurses. When Emily's situation suddenly becomes more serious, Kayle and Amanda are forced to make impossible decisions. "Leo had brought me the script loosely based on his experiences as a nurse. I remember reading the first couple of pages and being really sucked into what goes on in the world. People are so used to seeing TV dramas revolving around patients, but nurses are by the bedside," said Cipolla when discussing the plot of this film that features a 12 hour shift in the ER. "Leo, being a really good actor, it was inevitable that he play the role as well." When people talk about "The Shift," one of the inevitable questions is about how they obtained the ultra-talented Danny Glover. It wasn't easy. When Cipolla first wrote a list of who his dream actors would be, he did not even include Glover. After all, he thought, it would be a longshot. But he had always loved the actor, after watching him as a child in movies like "Grand Canyon" and "Lethal Weapon," among others. Luckily, producer Melanie DiPietro had an indirect contact with someone who was supposed to give Glover the script. But, ultimately, it did not get to him. But, she didn't give up. She tried to contact the agent next. Eventually, Glover did read it and liked it. Evidently, he had a personal experience similar to something that happened in the film. "At this point," said Cipolla, "it was three or four weeks before production ... I start hearing the Glover rumors again. To me, it was so farfetched that it would happen. Then, about a week before production, we are doing rehearsals and we still don't have the role cast because we are holding out hope we can get

Danny Glover. Melanie comes to me and says it might actually happen." Cipolla continued, "It was the day before production and he still was not on board. We were doing last looks inside the hospital and we were setting up. " ... Now, it's the night before. It was about 12 hours away. I get a call from Melanie that Danny is about to be put on a plane and fly to LA to do his fitting over here. It's about 11 or 12 at night, I get a call again. She says he never got on the plane." Due to some contract dispute, Glover was still grounded in Berkeley, said Cipolla. It wasn't until 1 or 2 in the morning that everything was straightened out and Glover got to LA, where he met at the hotel with Cipolla and Oliva as they discussed his part with him. "He is just exhausted," said Cipolla. "But he stayed up to talk with us and about what [the film] meant to him. At one point, we're like 'were going to roll in three or four hours.' We left him around 2." He added, "The first day on the set is always chaotic. We had the most ambitious days of filming to start off with. We had to [finish his scenes] in three days. We started with the toughest scene with him when Floyd is going over duties that night and the jargon was very technical. It was the toughest for all of us. But I am happy we started with the hardest because, once we got acquainted, it got easier." When asked about working with Glover as an actor, he commented, "He is a true professional and great actor. His presence on screen is unrivaled. It was surreal. It was a great experience." Regarding Oliva, he said, "Leo is a very straightforward, actor. He has a thick-skin. That was new for me. Leo does his thing and is unwavering. He doesn't need to be pampered. You don't have to beat around the bush. He likes things direct." He added, "In his own way, Danny is the same way. Being short with him was the best way to go. Just tell him where to go, where to be and he'll bring it. Once in a while, I would give a tweak here and there."

Cipolla mentioned that he has taken a few acting classes in order to learn that side of things. Of that experience, he said, "Acting is a very sensitive thing. It is so easy to get distracted and self conscious as an actor." The cast and crew got lucky. They were able to film in the USC hospital, the old one (they had built a new one just in front of it and never knocked down the old one). "It was lurking behind it. We used the exterior of it. It has so much character. It is supposedly haunted," he said. "The creep factor was definitely there. I I think the history of the place and [the props, etc.] added a dimension to the film that worked. Filming took 15 days, but the hospital would not let them film every day, so they could only shoot when they could. "We were supposed to shoot 12 days but extended it because it was impossible to shoot 100 pages [during that time]. We shot close to 9 to 10 pages a day. I think a fully-financed production is 2-3 pages. With a lot of independent projects, you are shooting a lot more," he said, adding. "We were shooting on digital, but shooting on the Red MX. It has to be lit and treated 10 like film camera. Instead of reels, we have cards. We had

St il l f rom "Ref l ect ion." to cut down on the amount of footage. The cards only have so much space. Shooting 10 pages a day is like shooting on 35mm. To light it, the set up time takes long time." When asked what he hopes people will come away with after watching this film, he said he hoped to open people's minds to the issue. "The Shift" was not Cipolla's first film. This Miami native was still in high school, at Dr. Michael M. Krop High, when he won an award from the National Foundation of Advancement in Arts after participating in their prestigious youngARTS Week. He went on to attend film school at University of Central Florida. He also won Best Picture and Director at the 2002 Miami Children?s Film Festival for the 30 minute short film "Taken Away," which was later made into the feature length film "Harder They Fall." That film was accepted into 13 film festivals and screened and critiqued by actor Sir Anthony Hopkins and director Brett Ratner. It was later acquired by Grindstone Pictures and released by Lionsgate Home Entertainment in 2009, along with his second feature film project, "Know Thy Enemy." He also was a finalist in Ron Howard's Project Imagination Film Contest in 2013. That contest allowed filmmakers to create a short film based on crowdsourced photographs. 11 The five top winners were featured at Canon's Project

Imagination Film Festival. Cipolla's film, titled "Reflection" dealt with a kid dealing with acne and low self-esteem who was bullied. "The contestants had to base their story around select photos provided on their website," explained Cipolla. "One of the photos had a guy standing in front of a mirror. I had been sitting on a kernel of an idea for a long time about a guy who one day wakes up to find that his reflection is missing. It was kind of a twilight zone-y type deal. It seemed like a natural fit. As I started to develop the concept, I felt it was a cool little science fiction idea ? but I hadn?t grasped the emotional centerpiece of it yet." "I thought about my own life. I instantly thought about my own struggle during high school and adolescence, and how, during that period, I would look at myself in the mirror and generally not like what I saw. The common insecurities: Am I too chubby? Am I unattractive, etc? I think this is a common thing with teenagers ? whether they are confident in themselves or not. You?re growing into an adult, and you?re adjusting to a lot of changes both physically and spiritually.So I thought that basing it around a teenager would speak the heart of the piece -- a young man needing to accept himself before anyone else will," said Cipolla. That shoot was simpler. It only took two days and was shot in Glendale, CA in one location. Although the film was completed a few years ago, he had to wait awhile before he was allowed to put it out to the public. Now, he is putting it out to festivals. He said, "It was on the shortlist for the Austin Film Festival. It didn?t make the final cut, but we received a handwritten letter by a programmer who expressed how much she loved the film. Though we are disappointed that it didn?t make it in, we felt this was a great start to festival submitting process." This busy filmmaker is working on several projects, including pre-production on ?The Next Contender,? a "sports drama about a mixed martial arts fighter" based on a script that he wrote with his father, A.J. They are in talks with Glover to take a role. He also is set to direct/ produce a webseries called "The Depositionist" in association with Good Deed Entertainment,

H o l y

m e l o n s !

Gallagher is com ing!

which will shoot in September. In addition, he will be acquiring the rights to a book that can be made into a movie soon. He just directed "The Brahma," a sports documentary about model turned UFC fighter Alan Jouban. For more inf ormat ion on Cipol l a's project s, visit www.f iel dl ight f il ms.com. For those wanting to see "The Shift," it is currently on VOD and DVD platforms, including Xfinity, iTunes, Amazon, Best Buy and Wal-Mart. It already had screenings at the SAG Theater and Laemmle Theaters in Los Angeles.

Kn own for m ak in g m el on m ash m esses, com edian Gal l agh er an d h is "Sl edge-O-M atic" is com in g to th e Ar t s Gar age i n Del r ay Beach Au g. 30, at 7:30 p .m . Th is com edy l egen d is br in gin g Ar tie Fl etch er, k n own for h is stan d u p com edy. Tick ets r u n $40 to $60.

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I t happened at Macon... "Th e Bandit ," Bur t Reyno l ds, honor ed By Rachel Gal vin

If you attended the Macon Film Festival, held between July 17 and 19, then you know that Florida's own legendary actor Burt Reynolds was honored. Not only did he receive a Georgia Film Legend Award, but his did a Q&A following the screening of his films "Deliverance" and "Sharky's Machine." The whole town welcomed the superstar. Even the restaurants shifted the menu cooking up items like Smoke and the Bandit burgers and Buford T. Justice Punch. He had a chance to reunite with some dear friends, including Captain Chaos, a character from his "Cannonball Run" movies. The role was played by Dom DeLuise, who, unfortunately, passed away in 2009. But ABC/ Fox reporter Chase Ambrose (who also is known for working with Troma) put on the outfit and played the role just in time for a Burt Reynol ds & Chest a Drake. photo opp. 13 Phot o by Todd Vit t um J.L. and Cindy

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Parker, who worked with Reynolds on several projects, including "The Longest Yard," said "Hello," as well as Chesta Drake and Sherry Billings, who worked with him on "Hamlet & Hutch," which was recently filmed in Georgia. Billings also worked on Reynolds? recently released film "Category Five." Gallery West owner Kirk West and wife Kirsten presented him with photographs taken during a recording session in 1994 with the Allman Brothers. In addition, Amber Caldwell, a member of the Georgia film community; Terrell Sandefur, director of the Macon Film Festival, and Todd Vittum, executive director of the Burt Reynolds Institute for Film and Theatre, attended. DREAM GIVEAWAY SWEEPSTAKES Beginning Aug. 3, people can have the chance to drive away in a restored 1979 Trans Am while wearing a Stetson hat, both signed by the Bandit himself. Even the log book chronicling the car's history is signed by Reynolds. Reynolds said, "I know what an important part the "Smokey and the Bandit" movie has played in the lives of so many of my fans. Certainly, the Trans Am being offered through the Dream Giveaways Sweepstakes brings back great memories for me. I would love for one of my fans to be able to make

Burt Reynol ds and t he 1979 Trans Am.

those same type of memories driving this beautiful car.? Tickets for this sweepstakes are only $3. The money helps charities like New Beginnings Children?s Homes, the National Guard Education Foundation and Disabled American Veterans (DAV). Additionally, some of the money raised will help to build the new Burt Reynolds Institute for Film and Theatre and reopen the Burt Reynolds Museum. For information, call 877-700-8946 or visit www.Burt.WintheBandit.com. Use promo code BANONE. Also, look for a new clothing line coming out by the actor , available at www.burtreynoldsinstituteapparel.org, and a memoir "But Enough About Me," which will be available in bookstores worldwide in November. Pre-order at www.amazon.com/But-Enough-About-Burt-Reynolds/dp/0399173544

Burt Reynol ds & Chace Ambrose. Phot o by Todd Vit t um

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Devin Ratray

Talks " Masterminds" By Rachel Gal vin

Devin Ratray might be best known as playing Buzz McCallister in the "Home Alone" movies, but his career has continued to grow since then, working in mainstream movies, indie films and TV shows. Recently, many people recognized him and his humor in "Louie" with Louis C.K., among many other projects. But it may be his work in the upcoming film "Masterminds" with Zach Galifianakis and Kristen Wiig that will really propel him once again into the spotlight. took time away from working on "Up 15 He Here," a theatrical musical (created by the

songwriters behind "Frozen," showing until Sept. 6 at the Mandell Weiss Theatre at the University of California, San Diego) to talk to I.S. about "Masterminds." IS: Are you l ike your charact er, Runny? DR: Runny is nothing like me. Runny is an unfortunate tool. He is devoid of too much of anything we would call intelligence or intuition. He is a simple soul, who looks up to [Steve], Owen Wilson, so very much. He believes him to be a true Mastermind, even somewhat of a minor deity. He has utter faith in any instruction Owen has for him, understanding that he has a bigger plan for us all. And Owen will lead us into victory and a better life, which, in fact, he does. IS: How did you prepare f or t he rol e? DR: It was easy to prepare for Runny. Basically, mostly what my

St il l f rom "Mast erminds."

part calls for is looking longingly into Owen Wilson's dreamy blue eyes and listening to that sweet soft drawl and agreeing with whatever he says. I agree with him fiercely ... on everything. IS: What was it l ike working wit h t his great group of comedians? DR: Working with comedians of this caliber was a delight most of the time. IS: Did you l earn anyt hing about what comedy was about f rom doing t his f il m? DR: Funny people are funny all the time, unless they suffer from depression or similar conditions, which actually most comedians do. But they're still funny people, funnier than other people. Ratray is always working. Keep an eye out for this prolific actor!

You can f ind out more about his work at www.devin-rat ray.com.

Pict ured: On l ef t : Rat ray wit h IS f ounder Rachel Gal vin at Ft . Lauderdal e Int l . Fil m Fest ival f or t he showing of a f il m Rat ray was t he l ead in cal l ed "Court ing Condi." Above: Rat ray as Runny in "Mast erminds."

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"MY CENTER WILL NOT HOLD" Aug. 8, 8 p.m. St onzek Theat er 713 Lake Ave. Lake Wort h, FL 33460 Come see this award-winning film by a promising young director, Destiny Thomas. The film, which won Best Short Film at the L-Dub Film Festival in Lake Worth, follows a troubled young girl who infiltrates the cult she barely escaped in order to rescue her younger sister. This haunting film is very personal to Thomas, who created this film based on her own experiences as a cult survivor. Proceeds from the film will be funding Destiny's education at The American Film Institute Conservatory. She has been accepted in the Directing Program this fall. As a daughter of Evangelical Fundamentalists, Thomas said she escaped child abuse and neglect. "In this kind of belief system, women are treated like 17 second-class citizens. Bound by an unhealthy allegiance

and controlled by the exclusion of education, I was powerless," said Thomas who was not able to go to school until she was 14, when she attended G-Star in Lake Worth, FL, and struggled to catch up. "During my 25 years of life, I?ve had the privilege to attend five years of school -- four years of High School and 10 months of training at a boutique film school. With this limited education, dozens of odd-jobs, hours of self study, and the burning need for redemption, I went on to write and direct the international award-winning short."

To f ind out more, visit www.l akewort hpl ayhouse.org.

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Learn the latest trends to turn your passion into a sustainable business, and walk out with a plan of action and new connections and relationships to build with. Due to the low cost of production tools and the power of mobile and internet technologies, doing it yourself has never been easier. This summit's creators say the summit is focused on getting you up to speed on the business strategies and latest tools technologies you need to find success. Learn everything from how to set up your business to how to pitch your product. Understand how to protect yourself and promote your message. Hear about high tech, innovative ways to make money and much more. Network and have fun (there will be music every night from up and coming bands!) Speakers include executives from top music labels, BMI, SESAC, ASCAP, GRAMMYS, INDMUSIC, CDBaby, ADA, INGROOVES, TV program creators, social media leaders, top DJs and radio programmers, leading blogs ? magazine journalists, concert and tour promoters, film production companies, cutting edge Tech CEOs and more! For more inf ormat ion, visit ht t p:/ / indieent ert ainment summit .com

What is the Indie Entertainment Summit? It is an annual event taking place in the "entertainment capital of the world" -- Los Angeles. ? in the NoHo Arts District / Hollywood, CA, with four days of about 80 industry seminars and workshops, as well as five nights of live music and performances. The event is open not only to filmmakers, but also to artists, bands / groups, indie record labels, business executives, technology experts and anyone with an interest in becoming and growing as an entertainment professional.

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Meet up: Sou t h Fl or i d a H or r or an d Sci -Fi M ov i e Fan s Ever wish you had someone to go to the movies with? Now you can. The South Florida Horror and Sci-Fi Movie fans Meetup group is growing every day. "We've grown 100 members in three months. We get new people every week," said Amy Rosenstock, who took over the group three months ago and runs it with Jilly Serota. The group has about 300 members total, but it is small groups that get together to watch a film and maybe eat dinner before or have a discussion after, or engage in other fun activities. The group is for fans of all types of horror and sci-fi films and a great way to meet new people in a fun, casual and relaxed way. Organizers post an event centered around a mainstream movie and anyone interested can RSVP online and attend. People pay for their own movie and food, etc. But they do not have to pay to be a member of the group. It is easy to join. Just go to: www.meet up.com/ The-Sout h-Fl orida-Horror-Movie-Group.

Pict ured: Just a f ew of t he group.

New Yo r k Tel evis io n Fes t ival The New York Television Festival's program Create 360 offers independent television writers, producers and production companies unique opportunities with the network group. The comprehensive development program builds on the longtime unscripted partnership between the NYTVF and A+E Networks, and provides additional opportunities for scripted television writers and producers. For more inf o., visit www.nyt vf .com

Got AGr ant ? Need a grant? Try The San Francisco Film Society. They offer a wide array of grants for people within and outside of the Bay area. For example, they have a grant that supports feature narrative films that deal with human and civil rights, anti-discrimination, gender and sexual identity, as well as other social issues. They have another for women working on their second or third film, or an indie producer. They have grants for screenwriters who have been a practicing writer for at least five years and who have previously written at least of one feature screenplay. There is even a one-month residency for screenwriters. If you are in the film biz, it is worth it to check out this site to see all the opportunities. Be aware, there are many stipulations and requirements to read about in each. Visit www.sf f s.org/ f il mmaker360/ narrat ive-grant s-and-programs.

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Congratulations to actress/ model Diana Laura Noris (who recently called Florida home) for being cast as Adriana in "XXistence," a psychological thriller directed by Terry Reid Wickham. The mini-series will be filming in New York in September and October. Wickham said of this go-getting actress, " In some ways, Diana probably had the most difficult scene to play of the entire day. I know it wasn?t easy to emotionally reach the place she had to, but Diana did it with dignity and dramatic grace.? Pictured above is a captured moment behind the scenes with Diana and the director. Diana said of the photo, " It was a very personal moment in which he was explaining to me the outcome he was expecting from this scene. Crying on command can be a hard task, but, sometimes, going back to a certain moment that might still have an open wound works out. The problem is to snap out of it fast enough so it will not hurt you." Find out more about t he series at ht t ps:/ / www.f acebook.com/ xxist enceminiseries. Pict ured: Diana and direct or (above) and Diana and cast (bel ow).

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I NDEPENDENT STREAK M AGAZI NE VOL 2, #8

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Fil m Carpet 4.0 Alexandra Bello did it again. Her 4th annual Film Carpet was held July 29 at Cinema Paradiso. As usual, the event brought in plenty of filmmakers, actors and cinephiles to network and pose on the red carpet. There was a lot of talent slated to appear and perform: Karen Slosaski as the Master of Ceremonies, Ms. Fab as the Red Carpet Host, Michael Jacques, Cathleen Dean and Rose Warner as speakers and more. Films shown included "Points 4 Love," "Dear Future Wife," "The End is Near" and "The Cleaner," as well as trailers for "Jacob," "The Shift" (see pg. 9), "City of Memory," "George & Angie," "Every 58 Hours" and "Points 4 Love." Every Film Carpet event includes entertainment. This time the R&B band Blu Line opened the evening and Gil Jr. Torres performed during intermission.

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Fil m Review:

Mar shland By Rachel Gal vin Director Alberto Rodriguez holds onto the audience and refuses to let them go in the gripping thriller "Marshland." Set in the Spanish marshland, looking similar to Florida's Everglades, the locations include labyrinthine waterways and canals, as well as long grasses perfect to hide in. With a serial killer on the loose, there is an uneasy tension throughout the film. In this tale set in Spain's deep-south in 1980, following Franco's brutal dictatorship, two homicide detectives are brought in to investigate the disappearance of two beautiful young sisters. Told in Spanish with English subtitles, the mood set in this film is eerie and leaves you on the edge of your seat. As the film continues, it is easy to wonder ... is anyone innocent? It seems everyone has something to hide. Rodriguez allows room for the characters to breathe and develop and the longer the film rolls, the more in depth each becomes. Virtually everyone seems haunted by something in their past in a world filled with betrayal, bribery, secrets, drugs and sexual perversion. As the detectives continue to uncover more information about the case, they realize they are dealing with something even more sinister and twisted than they expected and the truth is so far-reaching that many in the community end up dirty. Everything from the lighting to the locations add to the themes of each character and plot twists in the film. Rodriguez has an interesting use of animals in the film in a place where the residents hunt for their own food. The symbolism is subtle and, if you are aware of it, it will leave you wondering what it all means after the film ends. In fact, many things may make you want to watch the film again to look for and understand more clues in this intriguing and suspenseful mystery. It opens Aug. 21 at Cinema Paradiso in Ft. Lauderdale, as well as Movies of Delray and Movies of Lake Worth, and, in Miami at AMC Aventura, MDC?s Tower, O Cinema, and, in Miami Shores, Cosford Cinema. Javier GutiĂŠrrez, who plays Juan, is slated to be at the Cinema Paradiso screening. Visit websites of each 22 theater for more details.

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S m ot h er ed b y M ot h er s

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back. "Smothered by Mothers" was written and produced by Kurt Weichert. Other producers include Jonathan Yaskoff and John J. Tierney. Cinematography was by Kevin Moss, makeup by Jennifer Marie Perez. 1st A.D. was Joshua Lou Friedman, 1st A.C. Kate Moss. To see ot her credit s, see t heir IMDB.com page.

By Rachel Gal vin

Naples, Florida was abuzz with filming activity when the crew and cast from "Smothered By Mothers" came into town. Directed by Brian Herzlinger, the film is a fast-paced comedy starring Heather Matarazzo, Shannon Brown, Jim O'Heir, Burt Young and others, including local actors and crew. The film follows a professional football star who loses all of his relatives' money in a Ponzi scheme and becomes a father with three different women, all at the same time. The Ponzi scheme forces them to all live under one roof, and he 23 has to pull an elaborate caper in order to get his money

Pict ured: On l ef t : Maril yn Bass, Whit ney Kimbal l Long, Heat her Mat arazzo and Jamie Bernadet t e. Top right : Chuck Ardezzone, Burt Young and Frank Mont i. Bot t om right : Shannon Brown and Jul iet t e Bennet t .

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Pict ured: 1) Brian Herzl inger, Joshua Lou Friedman, Christ ina Rodriguez and Kurt Weichert . 2) Joshua Lou Friedman, Kevin Moss and Ant hony McKee Schrader. 3) Christ ina Rodriguez, Kurt Weichert and Carl Rimi. 4) Wil l Haze, Whit ney Kimbal l Long, Maril yn Marie and Kurt Weichert . 5) Robert Craighead, Brian Herzl inger, Jul iet t e Bennet t and Shannon Brown. 6) Joshua Lou Friedman, Kat e KT Moss, Kevin Moss.