Northern NJ Film People Meetup

For all interested in filmmaking there is a social/networking opportunity - all are welcome: producers, actors, crew, and beginners still looking for their niche.

Spring is in full force now, and it’s time to get back to our summertime outdoor venue for meetups. Next time we gather will be back at Pineapple Barbecue on Wednesday, May 31st at 7PM. Pineapple Barbecue is at 1 Lackawanna Plaza, at the corner of Bloomfield Avenue in Montclair.

They have a full bar and lots of great foods to choose from. We meet in the outdoor Beer Garden on the Lackawanna Plaza side of the facility.

Dress appropriately. We’re under shelter if it rains, but it could be chilly later on.

As always, any thoughts or questions should be directed to nnjfilmpeople@gmail.com.

05/26/23

2023 Roy W. Dean Film Grant for Summer Now Accepting Submissions

Winner of the Roy W. Dean Film Grant for Summer will receive $3,500 and thousands more in donated film products and services including $1,295.00 Scholarship to Writers Boot Camp, $500 in grip, lighting or expendables from Filmtools, a 30% Discount by Jerry Deaton for Music Post Production Services at AudioKut , $750 in Grant Writing Services from Karen Everett of New Doc Editing, and more from many heartfelt donors.

Filmmakers can apply at http://fromtheheartproductions.com/grant-application-form/.

Britt Penrod Award

$500 will be awarded to grant applicant with a film that is unique but also makes an exceptional contribution to society. The grant is made possible by a generous donation by its namesake, Britt Penrod, who has been a great supporter of independent films. Winner of this award does not need to be the Roy W. Dean Grant recipient.

Every Filmmaker That Applies Can Get Help on Their Project

Since its inception, the Roy W. Dean Film Grant has offered something for applicants that is itself unique for a grant. Every filmmaker that applies for the grant has the opportunity to receive a 15-minute consultation on their submission. Filmmakers can get advice on how to find funding, build up a database of donors or investors, market their film, and more.

More information on the grant can be found at https://fromtheheartproductions.com/roy-w-dean-film-grants-and-awards/

For any questions, please email info@fromtheheartproductions.com or call 805-984-0098.

05/25/23

Deadline Near for Roy W. Dean Short Film Grant

Submissions for the Roy W. Dean Short Film Grant are due by April 29th, 2023. Grant seeks short narrative fiction films that are unique and that make a contribution to society. Winner of the grant gets $3,000 and thousands more in donated services to help them complete their film.

Grant sponsor, 501(c)3 non-profit From the Heart Productions, offers each applicant to the grant a 15 minute consultation on their project with board member Carole Joyce. Filmmakers can get advice on how to fund their film, build up a database of donors, market their film, and more.

In addition to the $3,000 cash prize, the winner will also receive $3,000.00 in music and audio services from well-known composer David Raiklen, $6,000.00 in animation from Emmy award winner Charlie Canfield, $1,400 value (4 hours of sound mix session) from Silver Sound, and more from other donors supporting indie filmmaking.

For more information on the grant, please to go to https://fromtheheartproductions.com/roy-w-dean-short-film-grant/

For questions, please email info@fromtheheartproductions.com or call 805-984-0098

03/13/23

Time Running Out to Apply for the Roy W. Dean Film Grant for Spring

The deadline for submissions to the Roy W. Dean Film Grant for Spring is March 31st 2023. Now in its thirty-first year, the grant is awarded to unique films that make a contribution to society. From the Heart Productions, the 501(c)3 non-profit sponsoring the grant, offers all who apply for the grant a consultation on their project.

Open to documentaries, narrative features, short films, and web series, the winner of the grant will receive $3,500 in cash and thousands more in donated film products and services including 40% deduction on color, editing, and sound & all production services from ProMedia NYC, $500 in grip, lighting or expendables from Filmtools, 30% discount in equipment rental from AbelCine Tech, Inc. NYC, $1,600 value / sound mix session from Silver Sound, and more from many heartfelt donors.

More information on the grant can be found at https://fromtheheartproductions.com/roy-w-dean-film-grants-and-awards/

For any questions, please email info@fromtheheartproductions.com or call 805-984-0098.

03/13/23

Mean Girls The Musical Casting Notice

Grant Wilfley Casting is seeking people to portray high school students (ages 18+, all genders, ethnicities), teachers, parents, neighbors, including people of all body types, ages, people w/ disabilities, twins, etc).

Anyone who is interested in becoming an extra in the film should email their name, phone number, confirmation they are 18 or older (or share age if under 18), height, weight and clothing and shoes sizes, along with a recent picture, to hsmovie@gwcnyc.com. Specify “NJ Local” in the subject line of your message.

02/06/23

Call for entries: Cranford Film Festival

The Cranford Film Festival is seeking short films (under 20 minutes in length) for it's upcoming festival. Fiction, documentary, horror, animation, student films, and music videos will all be considered.

Submission deadline is March 15. In-person screenings at the Cranford Theater will be held on Saturday, April 22, and virtual screenings will take place between April 23 through May 7th.

https://www.cranfordfilmfestival.org/

CFF has earmarked funds from ticket sales, donations, and sponsorships to support the non-profit organization, Cranford Schools Friends of the Performing Arts.

01/31/23

2023 Roy W. Dean Short Film Grant Now Accepting Submissions

Now, in its 3rd year, the Roy W. Dean Short Film Grant is now open for entries. The grant offers the winner $3,000 and thousands more in donated services to help them complete their film. The grant is sponsored by the 501(c)3 non-profit From the Heart Productions which is dedicated to helping independent filmmakers get their films funded.

The grant seeks short films that are unique and that make a contribution to society. Grant is open to narrative fiction shorts, live action or animated, that are 40 minutes or less in length.

In addition to the $3,000 cash prize, the winner will also receive $3,000.00 in music and audio services from well-known composer David Raiklen, $6,000.00 in animation from Emmy award winner Charlie Canfield, $1,400 value (4 hours of sound mix session) from Silver Sound, and more from other donors supporting indie filmmaking.

Deadline for the Roy W. Dean Grant for Short Films is April 29th 2023.

All Filmmakers Who Apply Get a Free Consultation

Like the other Roy W. Dean Grants offered each year, applicants receive the opportunity for a 15-minute consultation on their project with board member Carole Joyce. Filmmakers can get advice on how to fund their film, build up a database of donors, market their film, and more.

“Carole Joyce amazed me with her ability to understand the subtleties of my project and then she connected me with like-minded people who were very excited about my project and eager to support my project. As an empathetic connector, Carole Joyce understands both the creative and business side of film and that make her recommendations golden!” Sophie P.

Filmmakers can apply for the grant at https://fromtheheartproductions.com/grant-application-form/

For any questions, please email info@fromtheheartproductions.com or call 805-984-0098.

01/24/23

Spring Roy W. Dean Film Grant Open for Submissions

The Roy W. Dean Film Grant is accepting submissions for its Spring 2023 Grant. Since 1992, the Roy W. Dean Film Grants have awarded funding to independent filmmakers with unique films that make a contribution to society. From the Heart Productions, the 501(c)3 non-profit sponsoring the grant, is proud to having helped these filmmakers complete these amazing films and bring them to the public.

The grant is open to documentaries, narrative features, short films and web series. In addition to being unique and making a contribution to society, projects should be budgeted at $500,000 or less. Students are welcome to apply.

Winner of the Roy W. Dean Film Grant for Spring will receive $3,500 in cash and thousands more in donated film products and services including 40% deduction on color, editing, and sound & all production services from ProMedia NYC, $500 in grip, lighting or expendables from Filmtools, 30% discount in equipment rental from AbelCine Tech, Inc. NYC, $1,600 value / sound mix session from Silver Sound, and more from many heartfelt donors.

Filmmakers can apply at http://fromtheheartproductions.com/grant-application-form/. Deadline for submission to the Roy W. Dean Film Grant for Spring is March 31st, 2023.

Every Filmmaker Gets Help for Their Project by Just Applying

Since its inception, the Roy W. Dean Film Grant has offered something for applicants that is itself unique for a grant. Every filmmaker that applies for the grant has the opportunity to receive a 15-minute consultation on their submission. Filmmakers can get advice on how to find funding, build up a database of donors or investors, market their film, and more.

More information on the grant can be found at https://fromtheheartproductions.com/roy-w-dean-film-grants-and-awards/

For any questions, please email info@fromtheheartproductions.com or call 805-984-0098.

01/24/23

Production Company Has Props and Supplies to Donate

A feature film has a 10 x 15 x 9 storage unit containing materials from set they are looking to donate to someone who can use. Set materials include a queen bed, linens, curtains, cutting boards, chef knives, cooking gear, glasses, trays and an array of other props. In addition there are production office supplies and fans which are great on set during the summer.

Location for Pick Up: Mullica Hills Columbia Storage

Any interest? Please contact linda@lunchhourproductions.com 917.439.5276

10/26/22

Helen Uffner Vintage Clothing For Sale

We know rumors abound but we wanted to clear up some up!

Contrary to rumors, Helen Uffner Vintage Clothing, NYC’s largest and most comprehensive vintage clothing rental company HAS NOT closed and has been doing business as usual.

Yes, we were forced out of our LIC space by developers, but moved to a temporary space in the Bronx in March where we continued to operate, but are now asked to vacate yet again after only 7 months, so the owners could use the space.

After serving the film, theater and TV community for 45 years here and abroad, it has been draining having to move 4 times in a row in a brief amount of time, so while we are still operational, we are currently entertaining serious offers to buy this extraordinary business.

If you have seen any films from Out of Africa to The Color Purple to the recent The Greatest Beer Run Ever, you have seen our clothing. If you have chuckled at period SNL skits, the clothes are ours.

California has a plethora of production companies with on-site costume collections. NYC has only one large, comprehensive collection. Us.

Unsolicited interest in the past came from abroad and out west, and barring a dearth of local interest, the idea that the NYC/NJ Metropolitan area, with its burgeoning studios and productions might end up housing NOT ONE period clothing rental company defies logic!

We not only have a comprehensive, impeccable inventory of tens of thousands of men’s women’s and children’s clothing and accessories from 1950s to the 1980s, but have one of the ONLY, huge, early clothing collections in the USA for authentic 1860s through 1940s. Pictured above is our former 8,000 square foot showroom, with double-racked clothes and shelved accessories.

We regret having to let go of the business we and the costume industry have loved for the past 45 years, but NY real estate is not kind to us. Any serious inquiries please email uffnervintagellc@aol.com

Helen Uffner Vintage Clothing, LLC
(718) 9370220

ALL SHIPPED RETURNS to our temporary storage facility below:
Helen Uffner - 4th Floor
Flatrate Movers
27 Bruckner Boulevard,
Bronx, NY 10454
https://www.instagram.com/uffnervintage/
https://www.facebook.com/Helen-Uffner-Vintage-Clothing-LLC-55927353313
https://pinterest.com/uffnervintage/
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/01/21/nyregion/the-gilded-age-costumes-helen-uffner.html

10/16/22

Row W. Dean Fall Film Grant Deadline Approaching

Indie filmmakers have only until October 31st to submit applications for the 2022 Roy W. Dean Film Grant for Fall. Closing out the 31st year of the Roy W. Dean Film Grant cycle, the grant is awarded to a unique film that makes a contribution to society. Recipient will receive $3,000 cash and thousands more in film services to help them complete their project.

Grant is open to feature and short documentaries, short fiction films, narrative features, and web series. The 501(c)3 non-profit that sponsors the grant, From the Heart Productions, has awarded over $2,500,000 in cash and services to dozens of filmmakers since the inception of the grant in 1992. Many have gone on to create award winning films.

Included in the long list of donated services awarded to the grant winner is $15,000 in theme music for their project from award winning composer David Raiklen, $6,000 in animation from Emmy winner Charlie Canfield, $500 in expendables, grip, or lighting from Filmtools, a one week DSLR camera package rental from Birns & Sawyer, and much more from many heartfelt donors.

Britt Penrod Award

$500 will be awarded to grant applicant with a film that is unique but also makes an exceptional contribution to society. The grant is made possible by a generous donation by its namesake, Britt Penrod, who has been a great supporter of independent films. Winner of this award does not need to be the Roy W. Dean Grant recipient.

Every Filmmaker Gets Help for Their Project by Just Applying

A unique feature of every Roy W. Dean Film Grant, each applicant is offered a 15-minute consultation on their project. Submitting filmmakers can get advice on how to find funding, build up a database of donors or investors, market their film, and more.

More information on the grant can be found at https://fromtheheartproductions.com/roy-w-dean-film-grants-and-awards/

For any questions, please email info@fromtheheartproductions.com or call 805-984-0098.

10/18/22

Final 2022 Roy W. Dean Film Grant Open for Submissions

The 2022 Fall Roy W. Dean Film Grant for indie filmmakers is now accepting applications. The grant is awarded to a unique film that makes a contribution to society. Recipient will receive $3,000 cash and thousands more in film services to help them complete their project. Deadline for submissions is October 31st, 2022.

The Roy W. Dean Film Grant is offered by 501(c)3 non-profit From the Heart Productions. Since 1992, the grant has awarded over $2,500,000 to dozens of filmmakers to help them complete their projects. Submissions can be documentaries, short films, narrative features, or web series.

Included in the long list of donated services awarded to the grant winner is $15,000 in theme music for their project from award winning composer David Raiklen, $6,000 in animation from Emmy winner Charlie Canfield, $500 in expendables, grip, or lighting from Filmtools, a one week DSLR camera package rental from Birns & Sawyer, and much more from many heartfelt donors.

Britt Penrod Award

$500 will be awarded to grant applicant with a film that is unique but also makes an exceptional contribution to society. The grant is made possible by a generous donation by its namesake, Britt Penrod, who has been a great supporter of independent films. Winner of this award does not need to be the Roy W. Dean Grant recipient

Every Filmmaker Gets Help for Their Project by Just Applying

A unique feature of every Roy W. Dean Film Grant, each applicant is offered a 15-minute consultation on their project. Submitting filmmakers can get advice on how to find funding, build up a database of donors or investors, market their film, and more.

More information on the grant can be found at https://fromtheheartproductions.com/roy-w-dean-film-grants-and-awards/

For any questions, please email info@fromtheheartproductions.com or call 805 984-0098.

8/25/22 Film Group Meetup: Northern New Jersey Film People

Northern New Jersey Film People continues to press forward with another gathering. We return to Pineapple Barbecue on Thursday, August 25th, 7PM. It’s at 1 Lackawanna Plaza, at the corner of Bloomfield Avenue in Montclair. We meet in the beer garden that’s on the Lackawanna Plaza side of the building. It’s outdoors, it’s free, it’s fun, it’s protected from the rain, and you’ll be glad you came.

Our meetups have been consistent in that every time, people who have come out have met others they want to work with and have formed connections that may last a lifetime. Our first gathering at Pineapple Barbecue saw an enthusiastic group that enjoyed the beer garden far past dark. The conversation was so gripping that no one took advantage of the fooseball, Jenga, or cornhole games that are available out there. Maybe next time we’ll have a fooseball competition in addition to discussion of the best way for actors to get an agent! If you haven’t done so already, please go to our Facebook page and join the group officially.

It’s at www.facebook.com/groups/nnjfilmpeople

We now have over 200 members and we’re growing steadily. See you there!

Any questions or concerns, drop me a note to Kevin McLaughlin, the group administrator at nnjfilmpeople@gmail.com

Register for LAUNCH TALKS: Breaking Into Television

You are cordially invited to LAUNCH TALKS presented by NCBU LAUNCH and the NJ Motion Picture & TV Commission on Wednesday, August 17 at 7 PM EST / 4 PM PT on Zoom. This program will be an in-depth conversation about breaking into television and navigating the industry.
JOIN US! Registration for LAUNCH TALKS is required.

Gotham Films, a provider of high-end aerial and motion photography to the film and television industry is having their first ever DEMO DAY. This onsite event at their Linden Airport studio and workshop is open to the public, and offers a hands-on opportunity to see and touch the equipment up close. Refreshments will be available for all.

When: Thursday, July 28th between 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. RSVP at tim@gotham.film Learn more at www.gotham.film

7/18/22

Apply Today for a 2023 New Jersey State Council on the Arts Individual Artist Fellowship

7/12/22

Harlan Coben’s ‘Shelter’ series for Amazon is filming in N.J. and hiring local Production Assistants

“Shelter,” a new TV series coming to Amazon Prime Video, is filming in and around Kearny New Jersey this summer, and currently hiring New Jersey locals (must be a resident of Jersey) to work as non-union, entry-level production assistants from August to November. No experience necessary; pay is $15 per hour Monday through Friday. See the application here.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe-RCjTS-03yShuy9Vx9S0P66vKL5pYuayVQ8RF-2KLOEb-xQ/viewform

6/14/22

NAACP is Seeking Young Filmmakers for a Shorts Competition!

CALLING ALL SOCIAL JUSTICE ACTIVISTS & FILMMAKERS!
Call for Submissions
Deadline June 27, 2022, at 6:00 PM (PT.)/9:00 PM EST

The NAACP presents the 2022 “Cinematic Shorts Competition” during the 113th NAACP Convention in Atlantic City, NJ from July 15 - July 20th.

This exciting competition will give SIX filmmakers/activists the opportunity to tell their stories of Social Justice.

Paired in teams of two, the filmmakers will receive video equipment and work under the guidance of a professional mentor to produce a 5-7 minute short documentary film.

Participating filmmakers will present their finished short films during the 113th NAACP Convention and attendees will vote for their favorite film. The team with the most votes will receive a full expense paid trip to Los Angeles to attend the 54th NAACP Image Awards. In addition, the winning filmmakers will receive one-on-one meetings with several high-level industry executives to help them take the next step in their careers.

This dynamic competition supports the ongoing work of the NAACP Hollywood Bureau and Social Justice programs within the NAACP.

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be between the ages of 18-29
• Must submit one creative sample (video/pictures/artwork) that demonstrates your skill set and interests
• Must submit one written statement between 250-300 words answering the following, 'How can power be created in the black community? And why is empowering the black community important to you?'
• Must provide your own transportation to and from Atlantic City for the competition. (Local hotel accommodations will be provided for selected filmmakers/activists based on double occupancy).

Please complete and submit this form by June 27, 2022 6 PM PST/9 PM EST

EVENT LOCATION
Atlantic City Convention Center
1 Convention Boulevard
Atlantic City, NJ 08401
https://form.jotform.com/220816904702149

6/14/22

Time Running Out to Apply for Roy W. Dean Film Grant for Summer

Indie filmmakers have just until June 30th to submit their projects to the Roy W. Dean Film Grant for Summer 2022. Awarded to a film that is unique and that makes a contribution to society, the grant includes $3,500 cash and thousands more in donated film production services and products to help filmmakers complete their film.

From the Heart Productions, the 501(c)3 top-rated non-profit which has sponsored the grant since 1993, will also offer the Britt Penrod Award of $500 to an applicant with a film that makes an exceptional contribution to society.

Open to documentaries, narrative features, short films and web series, the grant seeks films budgeted at $500,000 or less. Films can be at any stage of production. Students are welcome to apply.

The donated services the grant winner receives includes $500 in grip, lighting, or expendables from Filmtools, a $1,295.00 Scholarship to Writers Boot Camp, 6 month membership to Documentors with full access to fund raising materials, discounted sound mix from Jeff Alan at Alan Audio Works, and more from many heartfelt donors.

Filmmakers can apply at http://fromtheheartproductions.com/grant-application-form/.

Every Filmmaker Gets Help for Their Project by Just Applying

Since its inception, the Roy W. Dean Film Grant has offered something for applicants that is itself unique for a grant. Every filmmaker that applies for the grant has the opportunity to receive a 15-minute consultation on their submission. Filmmakers can get advice on how to find funding, build up a database of donors or investors, market their film, and more.

More information on the grant can be found at https://fromtheheartproductions.com/roy-w-dean-film-grants-and-awards/

For any questions, please email info@fromtheheartproductions.com or call 805-984-0098.

6/14/22

Union feature film “Mother’s Instinct” seeking I.A.T.S.E Members for multiple positions

Mothers' Instinct (Minstinct, Inc) is a IATSE Tier 2 Feature Film in the New Jersey area.

Looking for the following IATSE Local 600 positions:

• Stills Photographer
• B Camera 1st AC, 2nd AC, Loader
• EPK/BTS

Looking for the following IATSE Local 764 Positions:

• Set Costumers

Looking for the following IATSE Local 798 Positions:

• Make Up Stylist
• Hair Stylist

Candidates may email mothersinstinctnj@gmail.com for consideration. We encourage diverse candidates and women to apply for the positions outlined below.

Minstinct, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and follows non-discriminatory practices. All applicants will be considered for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status, or any other status protected by local or federal laws or regulations.

5/18/22

Feature Film “Mother’s Instinct” seeking Production Assistants for Movie in New Jersey

Are you ready to gain experience in the film industry and work on set alongside distinguished actors and brilliant filmmakers? Look no further than New Jersey, where a captivating feature film will begin production in just two weeks’ time! All applicants including minorities, women, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. We believe that better representation behind the screen starts with representation both on set and in the office. As storytellers, we do better if our employees come from different backgrounds and if we create an environment of inclusion and belonging for them. Let’s make a movie!

Please see available role(s) below. To apply please send resume to mothersinstinctnj@gmail.com. We look forward to hearing from YOU! Role

Production Assistant:

• Provide on-set assistance to the AD department as needed
• Print and distribute daily paperwork (e.g. scripts, call sheets)
• Escort actors around the filming area and coordinate extras
• Conduct crowd control by putting up signs, directing pedestrians away from filming, lock down sets etc.
• Act as a runner distributing messages or items within film crew and cast
• Perform administrative work (answering phones, paperwork etc.)
• Undertake errands as assigned

Qualifications

• Go-starter attitude
• Excellent organization, multitasking, and time management skills
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced and oftentimes high-pressure environment
• Willingness to follow direction
• Keen attention to detail
• Strong interpersonal communication skills
• Basic technical knowledge to address any equipment issues that occur

Minstinct, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and follows non-discriminatory practices. All applicants will be considered for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status, or any other status protected by local or federal laws or regulations.

05/18/22

Background Actors for an NYU Thesis Film, 6/4/22 (Unpaid)

Greetings!

An NYU Thesis Production will be Filming in Haledon, NJ on June 4th, 2022, and is seeking background performers! This film is being produced as part of an educational assignment for students at New York University. The film is a coming-of-age story about Grace, who is confronting her identity while preparing for her town’s Purity Ball.

The scenes being filmed in Haledon, NJ involve the Ball itself, which is set up similarly to a Father-Daughter dance. The Production is seeking Young Women (ages 12-22) and their families to help bring our Ball to life!

For performers under the age of 16, a parent or guardian would need to accompany the performer during the production. If a Male Parent/Guardian/Relative is able to accompany the performer, they would be welcome to participate as a performer in the Film. Performers who are 17 would be able to attend without a guardian, though we recommend inviting an individual who could play a father role in filming.

All performers will be required to submit proof of vaccination against COVID-19, or attest to a religious or medical exemption per NYU’s Production Guidelines. Testing requirements will be announced ahead of time by the production and masks will be worn on set when not filming. Basic personal information will need to be provided to the production for performers under 18 in order to be permitted to participate, as consistent with NJ Child Performer Laws.

We are asking performers come in costume based on clothing in your existing wardrobe: Dress Code is White Dresses for the daughters, and formal-wear (suit & tie) for the fathers. Meals will be provided on set, as well as Credit in the film.

If interested, please contact the producers: Cole Bannick, nkb292@nyu.edu; Ian McQueen, im1101@nyu.edu.

Production Information:
Title: “Unusual Ceremonies”
Production Date: 6/4/2022
Production Company: NYU Tisch School of the Arts
Director: Melina Nakos
Producer Contact: Cole Bannick, nkb292@nyu.edu; Ian McQueen, im1101@nyu.edu

05/09/22

Roy W. Dean Film Grant Now Accepting Submissions for Summer Grant

The Roy W. Dean Film Grants, celebrating their 3rd decade of supporting indie filmmakers, is accepting submissions for its 2022 Summer Grant. Awarded to a film that is unique and that makes a contribution to society, the grant includes cash and donated film production services. From the Heart Productions, the 501(c)3 top-rated non-profit sponsoring the grant, is also offering the Britt Penrod Award this year to an applicant with a film that makes an exceptional contribution to society.

The Roy W. Dean Film Grant is open to documentaries, narrative features, short films and web series budgeted at $500,000 or less. Films can be at any stage of production. Students are welcome to apply.

Winner of the Roy W. Dean Film Grant for Summer will receive $3,500 and thousands more in donated film products and services including $1,295.00 Scholarship to Writers Boot Camp, a 30% Discount by Jerry Deaton for Music Post Production Services at AudioKut , original music and sound mix from Jeff Alan at Alan Audio Works $750 in Grant Writing Services from Karen Everett of New Doc Editing, and more from many heartfelt donors.

Filmmakers can apply at http://fromtheheartproductions.com/grant-application-form/. Deadline for submission to the Roy W. Dean Film Grant for Summer is June 30th, 2022.

Britt Penrod Award

$500 will be awarded to grant applicant with a film that is unique but also makes an exceptional contribution to society. The grant is made possible by a generous donation by its namesake, Britt Penrod, who has been a great supporter of independent films. Winner of this award does not need to be the Roy W. Dean Grant recipient.

Every Filmmaker Gets Help for Their Project by Just Applying

Since its inception, the Roy W. Dean Film Grant has offered something for applicants that is itself unique for a grant. Every filmmaker that applies for the grant has the opportunity to receive a 15-minute consultation on their submission. Filmmakers can get advice on how to find funding, build up a database of donors or investors, market their film, and more.

More information on the grant can be found at https://fromtheheartproductions.com/roy-w-dean-film-grants-and-awards/

For any questions, please email info@fromtheheartproductions.com or call 805-984-0098.

05/05/22

Docu-Series Casting Call Notice

Shaken World Screenworks (Dallas, TX) is in development of a docu-series titled “Love & the Marriage Squeeze,” about African-American women and marriage. The producers are casting African-American women, 30+ years of age from all over the country, who have never been married and who have an interesting story to tell about their journey to find love.

Here is the direct link to the application form

Contact:

Associate Producer, Jess at LmsSeriesCasting@gmail.com

05/04/22

BE Film Festival Showcase | June 17-18, 2022
The Showboat Hotel, Atlantic City NJ

BE Film Festival Showcase is the home for discovering, supporting, and developing new talent in filmmaking. The festival provides a platform for Black filmmakers to demonstrate Black Excellence through an independent lens.

The deadline for film submissions is APRIL 30, 2022 at FilmFreeway.com or TheBEFestival.com.

04/13/22

CALL FOR ENTRIES Basie Center Teen + College Film Festival

The deadline for entries for the Basie Center Teen + College Film Festival is coming up on Sunday, March 27.

The official URL to submit is: http://www.thebasie.org/filmfest Open to students in grades 7th-12, plus NJ-based collegiate students nationwide!

CASTING CALL - "Life Long" (feature film)

Heery Loftus Casting is looking for SAG-AFTRA and Non-Union background talent who are available for the Paramount project: “Life Long.”

Looking for Men and women, All ethnicities, age 18+- SAG or Non-union. Shooting will be in North Jersey in the Harrison/Kearny areas.-must be local hire for these locales. Also must be available for covid testing previous to any possible shoot dates. Shoot dates are March 13 through May 6, 2022. Many scenes will be multiple days of shooting. All are PAID positions.

This production has a mandatory vaccination policy and requires all cast & crew to be vaccinated with the COVID-19 vaccine (Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson) or have a disability or sincerely held religious belief that prevents vaccination. If you meet this criteria, please submit without providing any additional information at this time. If you are selected, you will be given separate information on how to provide evidence to the Production that you fall within the categories mentioned above. Any job offered will be conditioned on satisfactorily showing evidence to the Production and testing negative against COVID-19. The Production will collect your evidence.

Please email your name, phone number, union status, location and photos to Lifelongcasting@gmail.com If selected, you’ll be contacted with further details.

We are committed to diverse, inclusive casting. For every role, please submit qualified performers, without regard to disability, race, age, color, national origin, sexual orientation or gender identity, or any other basis prohibited by law, unless otherwise specifically indicated herein.

Disney/FX Series "Retreat" Seeking Diverse College Film Students to Work on The Show

From "The OA" creative team Zal Batmanglij and Brit Marling comes the new FX miniseries "Retreat," about a Gen Z amateur sleuth who attempts to solve a murder at a secluded retreat.

The production begins filming this spring in New Jersey and is seeking diverse film students from NJ's colleges and universities. They are hoping to bring on multiple people that can work in various departments, and to help enrich the production by building a crew with diverse outlooks and backgrounds.

We posted an application form on our Twitter and Facebook, which should be filled out and sent to retreat.applicants@gmail.com.

Roy W. Dean Short Film Grant for 2022 Now Accepting Submissions

Returning for its 2nd year, the Roy W. Dean Short Film Grant offers the winner $3,000 and thousands more in donated services to help them complete their film.

Sponsored by the 501(c)3 non-profit From the Heart Productions, the grant seeks short films that are unique and that make a contribution to society. Grant is open to narrative fiction shorts, live action or animated, that are 40 minutes or less in length.

In addition to the $3,000 cash prize, the winner will also receive $3,000.00 in music and audio services from well-known composer David Raiklen, $6,000.00 in animation from Emmy award winner.

Charlie Canfield, $1,400 value (4 hours of sound mix session) from Silver Sound, and more from other donors supporting indie filmmaking.

Deadline for the Roy W. Dean Grant for Short Films is April 29th 2022.

All Filmmakers Who Apply Get a Free Consultation.

Now in their 31st year of supporting indie filmmakers, all four Roy W. Dean Grants offer applicants the opportunity for a 15-minute consultation on their project with board member Carole Joyce. Filmmakers can get advice on how to fund their film, build up a database of donors, market their film, and more.

“Carole was absolutely amazing. She went through my grant with me and gave me very specific and helpful notes. She also helped me find other resources that would help me with my project. I knew that when she spoke with me, she really cared about giving me advice that was kind, clear, and helpful. It meant so much because this is my first time applying for grants and it can seem so daunting, but she made me feel a lot more comfortable!” Ella Rose.

Filmmakers can apply for the grant at http://fromtheheartproductions.com/grant-application-form/.

For more information, please email info@fromtheheartproductions.com or call 805-984-0098.

Lighthouse International Film Society Screens 'Flee'

February 20, 2022

LONG BEACH ISLAND NEW JERSEY-The Lighthouse International Film Society will be screening award winning film FLEE at The Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts and Sciences Sunday February 20th at 7:00 PM. FLEE has swept the Oscars making Oscar history with documentary, animated, and international feature nominations. Tickets are $12.00 at the door and $10.00 online. Tickets/info - www.lighthousefilmfestival.org. Masks are required. Please reserve seating in limited.

Flee Makes Oscars History With Three Nominations: Best Animated Feature, Best Documentary Feature , Best International Feature!

Flee tells the extraordinary true story of a man, Amin, on the verge of marriage, which compels him to reveal his hidden past for the first time. His story of fleeing Afganistan, striving for a new life, and finding a new home is compelling and riveting. Refugee stories have a tragic, crushing universality about them: dank cargo-holds and shipping containers, thuggish human traffickers, the desperation of families torn apart by war and persecution. But in the sharing of one such story — that of Amin Nawabi, an Afghan academic settled in Denmark but still shaken by the escape he made during his teenage years — Danish documentary filmmaker Jonas Poher Rasmussen has somehow found a way inside these horrors that’s truly unique. Flee comes to life via hand-drawn animation, which is not what you’d expect. It’s also a memory play, a therapy session, and, most subtly, a coming-out comedy. Unspooling like a hush of secrets about to be disclosed after decades, this animated documentary is an irresistibly moving and engrossing story - - one of courage, compassion, and family. Flee will touch your heart. Subtitles.

Lighthouse International Film Society would like to thank our sponsors-The Ocean County Cultural and Heritage Commission, Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts and Sciences ,Pangaea Naturals Health Food Market, and Country Kettle Chowda, who have made screening this film on Long Beach Island possible.

SOCIAL MEDIA
Lighthouse International Film Society screens FLEE. Feb. 20th on Long Beach Island nominated for Best Animated Feature, Best Documentary Feature AND Best International Feature. Don't miss this! Info/Tix -https://bit.ly/3rGxRlI

The Newark Museum of Art celebrates the 48th anniversary of the Newark Black Film Festival by continuing its legacy of presenting films that heighten the historic importance of the Black experience in the United States.

Original films released since January 2019 will be considered. Films must be directed by someone who identifies as Black or must tell a story of the Black experience. Non-commercial or independent films over which the filmmaker has had control of the finished piece are preferred. Films produced for or shown on television or online are eligible if they meet the above criteria. If the length of the selected work dictates, the screenings may be abbreviated.

Films produced in other languages or countries may be entered if they have an English-language soundtrack or subtitles and meet the above criteria.

Films must be submitted via digital means only, through filmfreeway.com/NBFF2022

Entry fee: $40 (April 1)
Early bird entry fee: $20 (March 1)
Festival Dates: July 14-17, 2022

The Burlington County Board of Commissioners, through the New Jersey State Council on the Arts Grant, is excited to recognize a new brand of artist in 2022, the filmmaker!

All Ages Welcome to Submit!

Burlington County Parks will launch a 2-day short film festival in the spring of 2022 (May 12th & 13th), creating an opportunity for visual storytellers to have their work critiqued by a panel of filmmakers and educators. Along with cash prizes and awards, the Burlington County Short Film Festival is an excellent way to learn from other filmmakers, sharpen skills, and be recognized for your work. Winning films will be screened during the 2-day film festival.

As the accessibility of cell phone video expands, filmmakers are creating more and more diversified stories. The Burlington County Commissioners would like to recognize filmmakers that tell stories of their experiences. Submissions can be broadly categorized as fiction (narrative films), non-fiction (documentary), avant-garde (experimental), or animation.

A special PARKS category of films will be reserved for submissions about Burlington County Parks, shot in and around the parks, or have a nature theme.

Film submissions must be under 30 minutes and family-friendly. Any films containing offensive language or adult themes will be advised to re-edit or not be accepted. Submissions may not include political propaganda, and overtly political films, as decided by the panel, will not be accepted.

In order to apply:

Upload your film to YouTube.

Complete your application (https://burlingtoncountynj.formstack.com/forms/parks_short_film_festival) and include the URL link to your film on YouTube.

All films must be submitted by the end of the day (5:00 pm) on Tuesday, March 15th. There is no entry fee, so create as many short films as you like.

Judging will be completed by the middle of April, and announcements of winners will be at the beginning of May. All are welcome to attend the screening of winning films, have discussions with filmmakers, and celebrate filmmaking in Burlington County.

By submitting your film, you agree that you allow Burlington County to use clips from your film for the purposes of marketing the Film Festival.

The Roy W. Dean Film Grant for Spring 2022 is now open for submissions. Since 1992, the Roy W. Dean Film Grants have supported independent filmmakers by awarding funding to unique films that make a contribution to society. From the Heart Productions, the non-profit sponsoring the grant, is proud to have helped talented filmmakers complete films that impacted people’s lives and to have seen many of those filmmakers go on to have great filmmaking careers.

The grant is open to documentaries, narrative features, short films and web series. Films must be unique, make a contribution to society, and be budgeted at $500,000 or less. Students are welcome to apply.

Winner of the Roy W. Dean Film Grant for Spring will receive $3,500 in cash and thousands more in donated film products and services including 40% deduction on color, editing, and sound & all production services from ProMedia NYC, 30% discount in equipment rental from AbelCine Tech, Inc. NYC, $1,600 value / sound mix session from Silver Sound, and more from many heartfelt donors.

Filmmakers can apply at http://fromtheheartproductions.com/grant-application-form/. Deadline for submission to the Roy W. Dean Film Grant for Spring is March 30th, 2022.

Every Filmmaker Gets Help for Their Project by Just Applying

Since it’s inception, the Roy W. Dean Film Grant has offered something for applicants that is itself unique for a grant. Every filmmaker that applies for the grant has the opportunity to receive a 15-minute consultation on their submission. Filmmakers can get advice on how to find funding, build up a database of donors or investors, market their film, and more.

More information on the grant can be found at https://fromtheheartproductions.com/roy-w-dean-film-grants-and-awards/

For any questions, please email info@fromtheheartproductions.com or call 805-984-0098.

Win a HOME on a Royal British Estate.

• Do you have the skills to renovate a derelict building?
• Dreaming of an escape to the country?
• Want to win a fabulous home?

A brand-new television series is searching internationally for teams of two with the skills and drive to live on a 17th century castle estate and transform the space into residential homes. At the end of the competition three teams will each win a life-changing prize - one of the properties for themselves, rent and mortgage free!

For more information email your name & location to: HOME@mavericktv.co.uk

Press Release – November 9, 2021

Fennick Studio Props Evolves its Inventory of Vintage and Multiples of Props

Prop house increases business while cataloging its 80,000 sq. ft. warehouse space on a new e-commerce site

Passaic, N.J. - Fennick Studio Props’ collection of period pieces and props in large quantities for institutional and business sets, from tanker desks to television cameras, catalogues its 80,000 sq. ft. of inventory space on a new e-commerce website.

Clients have become accustomed to Ron’s ability to source hard-to-find items at a moment’s notice, a talent he learned from his twin brother and owner of Lot 76, an antique market on East Houston Street in Manhattan. Ron Fennick began acquiring a cult-like following of set decorators and prop masters when he started Fennick Studio Props in 2014. Now, the business is keeping up with the fast-past nature of film and television production by cataloging inventory, which allows clients to create “set lists” and submit requests for rentals virtually.

While the website temporarily serves as an introduction to the prop house’s massive inventory, as props are being uploaded aisle by aisle, clients can still get a historically informative tour of the space when they come to the warehouse. One such client that frequently stops by is New Jersey resident Rena DeAngelo, who shopped from Fennick Studio Props to decorate the films The Woman in the Window, The Goldfinch, and The Post.

“I didn’t have to go to Los Angeles for West Side Story because of this prop house,” said DeAngelo about decorating the film. “They have a collection that rivals all the prop houses in L.A., and that’s something to be said.”

Passaic County is a great location for a prop house that needs enough space to constantly grow its collection and provide an accessible commute to clients who are working in New Jersey, New York and other neighboring states. New clients are often shocked at the large quantities of props they can choose from to fill an institutional set, such as rows of stainless steel prison tables, Steelcase file cabinets to dress an office floor and courtroom seating. Other popular categories include restaurant dressing, telephone booths, tandem seating and industrial props.

"New Jersey's film and television industry has been growing exponentially in the last few years," said Steven Gorelick, Executive Director of the New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission. "We need sufficient infrastructure to meet the demands of the industry, and having a large, well stocked prop house such as Fennick here goes a long way towards making the state a complete filmmaking destination."

Fennick Studio Props was created with the “antique dealer mentality” of pursuing the hunt, and this mentality fuels Ron’s passion for helping clients who are just as eager to fulfill a specific vision.

“I’m constantly adding new vintage inventory to accommodate set decorators’ requests. The more inventory that is added, the easier it is for set decorators to find the items they need,” said Ron. “We work with the best of the best, and I always say that we’re just doing our best.”

“Keep ’Em in the East”
Kazan, Kubrick, and the Postwar New York Film Renaissance Richard Koszarski Columbia University Press

The year 1955 was a watershed one for New York’s film industry:
Elia Kazan’s On the Waterfront took home eight Oscars, and, more quietly, Stanley Kubrick released the low-budget classic Killer’s Kiss. A wave of films that changed how American movies were made soon followed, led by directors such as Sidney Lumet, William Friedkin, Francis Ford Coppola, and Martin Scorsese. Yet this resurgence could not have occurred without a deeply rooted tradition of local film production.

Richard Koszarski chronicles the compelling and often surprising origins of New York’s postwar film renaissance, looking beyond such classics as Naked City, Kiss of Death, and Portrait of Jennie.

He examines the social, cultural, and economic forces that shaped New York filmmaking, from city politics to union regulations, and shows how decades of low-budget independent production taught local filmmakers how to capture the city’s grit, liveliness, and allure. He reveals the importance of “race films”—all-Black productions intended for segregated African American audiences— that not only helped keep the film business afloat but also nurtured a core group of writers, directors, designers, and technicians. Detailed production histories of On the Waterfront and Killer’s Kiss—films that appear here in a completely new light— illustrate the distinctive characteristics of New York cinema.

Drawing on a vast array of research—including studio libraries, censorship records, union archives, and interviews with participants—“ Keep ’Em in the East” rewrites a crucial chapter in the history of American cinema.

RICHARD KOSZARSKI is professor emeritus of English and Cinema Studies at Rutgers University. He was formerly a curator at the Museum of the Moving Image and is the founder and editor emeritus of Film History. His many books include Hollywood on the Hudson: Film and Television in New York from Gri_ th to Sarnoff (2008).

“Richard Koszarski is a bold historian, a meticulous researcher, and a spellbinding storyteller. “Keep ‘Em in the East” masterfully displays all his talents. Only Koszarski could so deftly weave together industrial history, political infighting, social conditions, personal and very human biographies, and pointed appreciation of films as different as Naked City and Tall, Tan, and Terrific. ... “Keep ‘Em in the East” permanently reshapes our understanding of American film as an art, a business, and a cultural force.”
—David Bordwell, author of Reinventing Hollywood: How 1940s Filmmakers Changed Movie Storytelling

“A valuable (and long overdue) work of cinema scholarship. It broadens the parameters of American film history to include the boroughs of New York, where independent artists thrived far from Hollywood’s picture factories. Koszarski’s exemplary research shows that New York’s influence extended beyond Broadway’s influential writers, directors, and performers; it included a whole cadre of cinematic talent who’d have a profound impact on American movies.”
—Eddie Muller, host of TCM’s Noir Alley

“In this reassessment of the role of New York City in the history of film, “Keep ’Em in the East” restores the city’s filmmaking reputation with impeccable research and enthusiasm. No one would dispute that Richard Koszarski is the only film historian who could have written this book.”
—Jeanine Basinger, author of The Star Machine

“Absorbing and enlightening. The dramas and disasters are expertly told and brilliantly researched. The book is a pleasure to read.”
—Kevin Brownlow, author of The Parade’s Gone By ...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 28, 2021
CONTACT: BetsyRudnickPR@gmail.com

PHIPHEN PICTURES ANNOUNCES THE LAUNCH OF PHIPHEN STUDIOS IN ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS, NEW JERSEY IN 2022

Studios Will Include State-Of-The-Art Post Production Facilities As Well As Production Offices

October 20, 2021 – Independent film and television production company Phiphen Pictures will open Phiphen Studios in Englewood Cliffs, NJ a boutique, state-of-the-art post-production and production office facility in 2022. Phiphen Studios was created by a group of award-winning filmmakers upon seeing the need to support New Jersey’s vibrant film community and recognizing the opportunity to help it grow.

Phiphen Studios will consist of a production office space tailored for the completion of projects as well as a 25-seat 4K theater available for screenings, special events, and presentations. It will house multiple private offices, executive suites, a conference room, and kitchens. It also will include boutique offline edit rooms adaptable to DaVinci Resolve, Final Cut Pro, Premiere, and Avid Media Composer. The audio department will be comprised of two mix rooms outfitted for 5.1 mixing and voice recording, while also offering full-service sound design, editorial services, and mixing, including ADR and VO. Other services will range from Online Editorial to Color Grading to Mastering.

With the recent reinstatement of New Jersey’s film and television 30-35% tax credit (plus 2% diversity bonus), this marks a significant moment for new business in the state and highlights New Jersey’s commitment to the film community, not only in the tri-state area, but world-wide. “We are very excited to welcome Phiphen Pictures to our fast-growing production community,” said Steven Gorelick, Executive Director of the New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission. “A top-flight post-production facility such as this is essential to the critical infrastructure that the state is working to build.”

“We are enjoying a record year for motion picture and television work In New Jersey, and the arrival of Phiphen Studios further demonstrates our attractiveness as a production destination,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “The word is out and the people making decisions on where to film are clearly taking notice.”

Phiphen Studios C.E.O. Jane Oster Sinisi added, “As a proud New Jersey native, opening the studio is a dream come true. We have the unique opportunity to support the local film business in the state, while providing a state-of-the-art facility to filmmakers from around the world. We are grateful to the state of New Jersey for their ongoing support of the film community.”

“We are very excited to embark on this expansion of our business, which will allow us to continue to support filmmakers in an even bigger way,” said Phiphen Pictures Founder Molly Conners. “We’re thrilled to begin this new chapter and provide a foundation for filmmakers to flourish.”

Be on the lookout for more news soon.

About Phiphen Pictures
Phiphen Pictures is an independently owned film and television production company founded by award-winning producer Molly Conners. The company creates content across all genres and budget levels, supporting innovative talents and telling bold stories for a global audience. Phiphen has produced Netflix’s Like Father, starring Kristen Bell and Kelsey Grammer. They have received an Emmy nomination for producing the short-form comedy television series It's Bruno, currently streaming on Netflix. Recently, Phiphen produced IFC’s dramatic thriller Centigrade starring Genesis Rodriguez and Vincent Piazza, Netflix's science-fiction thriller Stowaway with Anna Kendrick and Toni Collette as well the medical thriller The God Committee starring Julia Stiles and Kelsey Grammar.

PUBLICITY CONTACT
Betsy Rudnick PR
BetsyRudnickPR@gmail.com
C: 646-864-6463

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 28, 2021
CONTACT: Neem Basha, info@newjerseywebfest.com, 917-843-9398

NEW JERSEY WEB FESTIVAL WELCOMES CREATORS FROM ALL OVER THE GLOBE IN ITS FIRST POST-PANDEMIC EDITION

The event was one of the world’s first in-person festivals since March 2020

Creators and supporters are heaping praise on the festival for its “creator-first” approach

Among the honors given at the festival, a 10-year-old boy born with Chiari malformation was honored with the first “Excellence and Courage” Award

The festival gave fiction podcast creators their first “film festival experience”

MONTCLAIR–– The New Jersey Web Festival (NJ WebFest) held its third edition on September 16-19, 2021, making it one of the first in-person festivals to take place since March 2020. The highly-acclaimed festival, ranked one of the “Top-100 Best Reviewed Festivals” in the world based on filmmaker reviews on Film Freeway, welcomed creators from all over the United States, as well as global creators from New Zealand, Canada, Czech Republic, South America, and France, among other regions.

This year, the NJ WebFest made history as the first web festival to expand to include Fiction Podcasts, giving this massively popular art form a film festival experience for the first time and paving the way for more industry professionals to learn about the fiction podcast medium.

The four-day festival included a series of workshops hosted by prominent writers, actors, and industry leaders, including a talkback with “Love Life” Co-Showrunner Rachelle Williams, and Masterclasses with Emmy-Award winner Chris Cluess and longtime TV producer Dan Pasternack. The festival also presented more than 225 screenings of web series, fiction podcasts, music videos, and trailers from all over the world.

The closing award ceremonies and receptions for both the Web Series and Fiction Podcast divisions of the festival were held at The Manor in West Orange, NJ, on Sunday, September 19th. Seventy total awards were presented at the highly-acclaimed galas. The list of winners features an eclectic list of projects, highlighting the variety of submissions the festival receives annually. Photo galleries of the events can be viewed on the New Jersey WebFest Facebook page.

“It has been a turbulent year-and-a-half, and that is what made this year’s edition of New Jersey WebFest bigger than ever,” said Neem Basha, NJ WebFest founder and president. “We celebrate creativity always, but this year, we celebrated creativity that has survived chaos and confusion. We are living through a pandemic, but on the week of the festival, we were there to show love to each other and value each other’s work. Our tagline is ‘Feel the Magic,’ and this year, it was more accurate than ever. We all felt it.”

NJ WebFest also presented a special honor called the “Excellence and Courage Award” to a 10-year-old boy, Steven Spice, who was born with Chiari malformation, an inoperable condition in which brain tissue extends into the spinal canal. Basha learned of Spice’s story when he came across the boy’s YouTube web series where he interviews famous professional wrestling stars. Spice’s never-give-up attitude impressed the festival team, but he was unable to attend the festival in person, so the NJ WebFest sent representatives to present him with the award at his home in Toronto and officially announced the award with a video package played at the gala.

Reviews have been pouring in since the festival. Here are some samples:

This festival is a must! Neem and his team are so passionate about creators and they do everything they can to support them in this festival! Amazing energy, excitement, and so much heart.
- Ashley Monique Menard, “The Art of Blowing It”

The NJ WebFest has an incredibly warm, inclusive, supportive atmosphere. It didn’t feel like a competition at all, but rather a big party for like-minded nerds to celebrate each other.
- Third Person, “Midst”

The entire festival and communication with the organizers was such a great experience. Not only was it fun, but it was educational with all the great panels they had. If you have a web series, you HAVE to submit, you will not regret it!
- Narmar Hanna, “The Luxury Rental”

Wow! Just wow! NJ WebFest is spectacular! Super well organized and a gala award night that you'll never forget. The organizers are fun and care about artists. We were so grateful to be a part of this festival. Absolutely worth the admission fee. #FeeltheMagic
- Kelsea Edgerly, “Stuck!”

The 70+ five-star reviews can be viewed on the festival’s Film Freeway page.

Neem Basha, an award-winning filmmaker and alumnus of several web and film festivals, founded the New Jersey Web Festival in 2017. The fiction podcast wing of the festival is chaired by Ned Donovan, a multi-hyphenate award-winning creator who brought the fiction podcast brainchild to Basha in 2019.

Submissions are open for 2022. Web series, fiction podcasts, music videos, trailers, and pilots can submit their projects at filmfreeway.com/NJWebFest.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 14, 2021
CONTACT: Anne Thornton
908-413-3799
Anne@ThorsOutdoorScienceAcademy.com
ThorsOutdoorScienceAcademy.com

Thor’s Outdoor Science Academy™ Wins Telly Award

Named Silver Winner for Non-Broadcast Nature/Wildlife in 42nd Annual Award Program

HUNTERDON COUNTY, N.J. – Thor’s Outdoor Science Academy™ announced today that its episode “Hot Sauce” has been named a Silver Winner for Non-Broadcast, General-Nature/Wildlife in the 42nd Annual Telly Awards. The Telly Awards honors excellence in video and television across all screens and is judged by leaders from video platforms, television, streaming networks and production companies.

In 2020, Thornton “Thor” Giese developed his own series of experiential science videos, Thor’s Outdoor Science Academy™, which was picked up by the Emmy-winning Into the Outdoors network which currently airs on PBS in 27 states, plus Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. The science academy tackles the elements of earth, air, fire and water in fun and relatable ways. Exploring these elements through science, history, language, food and great stories, Thor taps into his experience as an archaeologist and museum educator to bring the subjects alive for the audience.

“I am so blown away and honored to be recognized with a Telly Award. In 2020, I had just gotten a dream job with New Jersey Fish & Wildlife when the position was frozen due to the pandemic. I then switched gears and created the Outdoor Science Academy,” Thor Giese said. “To have gone from that to this in just a year is remarkable, and validates all the hard work my team and I have done to create fun, engaging and educational science videos. The Telly Awards recognizes some of the best work in the business, and I am so proud to be a part of their esteemed list of winners.”

The winning episode, “Hot Sauce,” features Thor sharing the history of hot chili peppers, why hot peppers are used and shows him making his own sauce (in fast motion!).

“In the face of a year like no other, Thor’s Outdoor Science Academy™ has continued to defy the limitations of our new world, in continuing to create compelling and engaging work”, said Telly Awards Executive Director Sabrina Dridje. “This year’s submissions doubled down on what we already know about the industry. Creativity cannot be stopped. Collaboration will always prevail. New ideas and stories will always find a way to break through to an audience.”

This year saw the continued expansion of new categories to reflect and celebrate new forms of producing work in light of the past months’ restrictions and limitations. New categories included Remote Production, Virtual Events & Experiences and an increase in animation categories.

Last year, The Telly Awards attracted more than 12,000 entries from top video content producers including Adobe, Adult Swim, the BBC, Condé Nast, J. Paul Getty Museum, PBS, Playstation, RadicalMedia, T Brand Studio, Ogilvy & Mather and The Walt Disney Company.

The full list of the 42nd Annual Telly Awards winners can be found at www.tellyawards.com/winners.

To watch Thor’s Outdoor Science Academy™, tune into Thor's YouTube channel.

On his website, Thor features his science and cooking segments, as well as recommendations on books, podcasts and other ponderings.

About Thor Giese & Thor’s Outdoor Science Academy™
With a degree in anthropology from the University of Colorado in Denver, Thor worked as an archaeologist on numerous digs and excavation sites, as well as served as a resident educator at Dinosaur Ridge, an outdoor museum in Colorado known as one of the world’s most famous dinosaur fossil localities. Easily educating over 200,000 museum guests in his time, Thor learned how to make science come alive and connect with others.

Combining his love for science with a passion for education, beginning in 2020, Thor developed a series of experiential science videos, Thor’s Outdoor Science Academy™, where he tackles the elements of earth, air, fire and water. Exploring these elements through science, history, language, food and great stories, Thor is entertaining and educating viewers of all ages on our great big world of yesterday, today and tomorrow.

Learn more about Thor’s Outdoor Science Academy™ at thorsoutdoorscienceacademy.com or follow on social media at:

www.facebook.com/thorsoutdoor
www.twitter.com/oudoorthors
www.instagram.com/thorsoutdoorscience
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9VNKvvFHZ-qJ9WYymyaCWA
www.tiktok.com/thorsoutdoorscience

About The Telly Awards
The Telly Awards is the premier award honoring video and television across all screens. Established in 1979, The Telly Awards receives over 12,000 entries from all 50 states and 5 continents. Entrants are judged by The Telly Awards Judging Council — an industry body of more than 200 leading experts including advertising agencies, production companies, and major television networks, reflective of the multiscreen industry The Telly Awards celebrates. Partners of The Telly Awards include Ghetto Film School, We Are Parable, LAPPG, NAB, Stash, Storyhunter, NYWIFT, Production Hub, IFP and Social Media Week.

Wall to Wall, a Warner Brothers Company, is casting families wanting to embark on a fun immersive historical journey for a major American Network. They are looking for family units from all kinds with different backgrounds, and diverse interests.

Filming will take place next summer, where the families will live as their forefathers did before them, giving up modern comforts, overcoming the challenges of the past and taking on the beautiful American wilderness.

Have you and your family got what it takes to overcome the challenges of the past? Could you survive for months on end in the beautiful but unforgiving American wilderness?

For more information and how to apply, go to: www.walltowall.co.uk/family

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 29, 2020

COVID Can’t Stop One Actor and Filmmaker in NJ: B.Lee Productions Opens New Studio

NUTLEY, NJ – NJ-based actor and executive producer, Brittney Lee Hamilton, opened THE STUDIO at B.Lee Productions this past weekend to help bolster the suffering arts community during the pandemic.

THE STUDIO at B.Lee Productions is a creative oasis in the heart of Nutley, NJ (just 13 miles from Manhattan), offering film and theatre production services, private voice/acting lessons, small group classes, self-tape audition sessions, intimate live events, and private screenings.

With so many actors and creatives leaving NYC for the cheaper rents in NJ, Brittney Lee Hamilton is hoping to offer her community a haven to coach and tape their auditions, perform for a small audience, and keep their creative juices flowing.

Brittney's short film, #PrincessProblems, has won a multitude of awards as it makes its way through the festival circuit. Most festivals have gone virtual due to the pandemic, which creates an obstacle to the necessary networking opportunities they provide. This led Brittney to blaze her own trail and move forward with opening THE STUDIO to cement her place in the NJ film community and eventually pitch #PrincessProblems as a TV series.

As an acting and vocal coach, Brittney has a strong following of child and teen students in the area, some of whom she even cast in #PrincessProblems. "There are so many theatre programs for children in NJ, but not many TV/Film programs for kids as young as 6. At THE STUDIO, I can offer extensive acting (for TV, Theatre, Musical Theatre, & Voiceovers) and film production training at a young age to cultivate the children's talents and appreciation for the arts early in their lives."

Safety is the number one priority at THE STUDIO. By keeping the classes small, safety guidelines can be easily enforced, while allowing the kids to engage with their peers in a creative setting. For more information, visit www.bleeproductionsllc.com, and www.princessproblemsfilm.com.

Heather Buckley announced that after Dread Central posted an article introducing her newly minted inclusive horror studio, Black Mansion Films, its first campaign on GoFundMe met the funding goal within a mere five hours.

Buckley stated, “We saw this massive outpouring of support from the horror community. It was an undeniable endorsement that people want stories told from new perspectives.” In fact, nearly 3x the original goal was raised in four days.

Major contributors included Tara Ansley, co-owner of FANGORIA magazine, who wrote, “Women In Horror. Fund Women.” Some contributors, such as actress Kristina Arntz, returned to donate multiple times, as funding doubled and then tripled. Producer David Tripet added, “I believe in Heather, and I want to see more genre films made by women and minorities. I can’t wait to see what she and her team create!”

The funds raised will be used for early development, specifically to package the film INSIDE from Writer/Director Elise Salomon, which has already attracted significant interest. Buckley plans to keep the funding campaign open for the next stage of development, and you can check it out here.

About Black Mansion Films
An inclusive film studio founded in 2020, Black Mansion has a meticulously curated slate of character-driven narrative features and television projects, all in the elevated genre space with timely themes. The Black Mansion slate is repped at WPA by Partner, Brian Goldberg. Founder and CEO, Heather Buckley, has been involved with the genre film community for over 20 years. As a journalist, she has written for Fangoria Magazine and DreadCentral.com. Her production credits include The Ranger and Blood & Flesh, The Reel Life, and Ghastly Death of Al Adamson as well as over 175 short-form documentary interviews with prominent actors and directors in the genre space for physical media.

Media Contact
Adina Eaton | 201.736.5745 | adina.eaton@gmail.com

The Commissioners and Staff of the New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission extend our sympathy to the family of Governor Brendan Byrne, who passed away on January 4th. Our Commission was created in 1977 under Governor Byrne’s leadership, thanks to his remarkable vision, and with his unwavering support. Governor Byrne’s wisdom, knowledge and wonderful sense of humor will be greatly missed. His many accomplishments, including the establishment of the NJMPTVC, have improved the state in ways that are immeasurable.