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Midnight Movie: The Killer Cut! and Thank You!


I wanted to thank the cast, crew, composer and director for making the month of June a very good time for the ol' 2vs8 site. It has been a great pleasure to have you all stop by and visit... I hope for much success in your respected fields. I would like to also thank you the readers for the last several years, and I can say there are big things coming from more 21q's, celebrities, and film reviews..

Midnight Movie Friends:
Jack Messitt
Penka Kouneva
Rebekah Brandes
Daniel Bonjour
Brea Grant
Michael Schwartz
Michael Swan
Melissa Steach

Thank You Again,
Jeremy [iZombie]

2vs8 Questions With: Penka Kouneva [Composer]

Penka Kouneva
Composer
Midnight Movie: The Killer Cut

Penka Kouneva is a rising Hollywood film composer who blends her native Eastern-European influences with modern orchestra, Medieval chant, rock, and electronica. Her music is dark, emotive, and soulful. To date, she has scored 13 indie features, 4 television films for the SciFi channel, and episodic TV shows. These include the dramas The Third Nail and Richard III, sci-fi political suspense November, action-adventures Ice Spiders, and psychological thriller Dorian Gray. She is also a busy orchestrator and score producer on studio films including Transformers, Pirates of the Caribbean 3, Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, Bee Movie, Hostel I and II, Matrix 2, 3, Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2, etc. Penka’s music has been honored with WorldFest’s Platinum Remi for Best Score, Aaron Copland Award, and Sundance Composer Fellowship. 

[2vs8]: I understand there is a re-cut version of "Midnight Movie" called "Midnight Movie: The Killer Cut" what was your involvement on this?

Penka: Yes, the new version ("the Killer Cut") is terrific. It has expanded scenes, new visual effects (really awesome "appearance" of the killer onto the celluloid) and some scenes have been slightly shuffled. I wrote a new cue for the beginning (which is also different - much stronger musically) and a few other expanded cues. I think the new cut is a huge improvement and I was glad to contribute to the score.

[2vs8]: How did you get back into the score, did you feel a change needed to be made with the re-cut or did you stay with the traditional idea you created?

Penka: Last summer when I was working on the release of the Soundtrack CD I decided to write a thematic suite that is a stand-alone piece -- strong and distinctive. The idea of a Suite came from Hostel II - Nathan Barr wrote an amazing Suite because his Hostel II score was a bit more subtle and probably he felt he didn't have a chance to write a great big "set piece." I felt the same way - I felt the CD would benefit from one strong piece based on the Killer's theme and then developing it. (In the film, the killer's theme exists only as a 4-note motif and is never heard beyond those 4 notes when the Killer makes a hit). So, that extended Killer's theme which I wrote in the summer of 2010 for the CD became the New Main theme for the new cut. It worked out just wonderfully. Of course, I had to conform it to the picture and add slashes, percussive hits and made sure it matched the editing. Overall, it's a much stronger beginning of the film - visually and musically.

[2vs8]: Will there be an additional score release of the extra music you had created or maybe a download option?

Penka: No, I don't think so. As I mentioned the CD contains that new extended Killer theme, and also a few other extended musical cues.

[2vs8]: What are your thoughts on music being only available as "the download only" option, do you find the music quality could suffer?

Penka: I think it's the future of entertainment. I personally buy stuff from iTunes often and use YouTube daily for research. It's amazing to have such wealth of music under one's fingertips. I've never been too crazy about super-extra-hi-fi because to me the music ideas, or storytelling have been more important than technology. But the quality has been good. I do appreciate iTunes and Amazon downloads and it's an amazing treasure trove to fans all over the world. Downloads have made music accessible to fans in every corner of the world, which is not how it was when I was growing up desperately seeking the Pink Floyd LPs I so much wanted to have -- but were not available in the stores (only on the black market). Music has become accessible which is a very democratic thing.

[2vs8]: Outside of "Midnight Movie" what have you been working on, who have you been working with and what is coming soon?

Penka: I have 3 indie features coming out this year: buddy drama ROUGH HUSTLE, mystery REJOUR (CHASING TIME), and a family drama EL NACIONAL. I've been very busy writing additional score on videogames - with Steve Jablonsky on GEARS OF WAR 3, and a Korean fantasy game about to ship, writing demos on few other games. I am building relationships and pursuing game projects, in addition to film.

[2vs8]: Something you have learned about composing that was different since you started?

Penka: Oh, I've learned so much lately and keep learning every day. These days I strive to write very distinctive, very memorable themes, similarly to how a hit song is created. There is something emblematic, very distinctive about such "iconic" theme that the fan remembers forever. It's hard to compose. It requires a lot of focus and whittling down the music, but first starting with a strong, focused musical idea, and then distilling it from there. I think nowadays with this enormous over-saturation of film scores, game scores, TV scores any composer is challenged to try and create a very distinctive, memorable, "iconic" music, or else sink into oblivion.

[2vs8]: What do you find to be the most rewarding doing what you do and working with those you work with?

Penka: I cherish my collaborative relationships that inspire me, challenge me and I learn tons of new skills. Such was my relationship with Ubisoft, the game company that produced PRINCE OF PERSIA. I was so grateful to my audio directors Simon Landry and Aldo Sampaio who were generous with amazing feedback and guidance. I cherish the challenging scoring jobs that made me seek out new approaches and reinvent myself as a composer. MIDNIGHT MOVIE was definitely such as job, and so were all my recent game jobs. For a creative artist such constant growth is a very rewarding feeling.

[2vs8]: What is a late night you have had working in the studio, where a inspiration hit you once you felt you might quit for the night?

Penka: I tend to be pretty regimented in my work. I usually spend a fair amount of time in the evening thinking up creative ideas and then sleeping on them and working on them in the morning. I often let creative ideas "ferment" for a while then distilling the best from them and crafting a theme or idea. I tend to be pretty thoughtful in my creative process. Otherwise try not to stay too late working because the next day is a wash and I am not very productive when I am tired. Composing demands an absolute concentration and during the day I tend to get distracted with tasks anyway.

[2vs8]: What do you feel is your best work outside "Midnight Movie" where you hear your work and think to yourself, that is my favorite?

Penka: The score to PRINCE OF PERSIA and now this KOREAN game are my best scores to date (in addition to MM), with which I felt I grew up exponentially as a composer and in my ability to write strong themes. Working with Steve Jablonsky has been amazing because he, too, works really hard to craft his themes, and that's the best influence on me - learning to craft power house themes.

[2vs8]: Tell us your favorite funny story while you worked in the studio and your worst one?

Penka: While recording at Fox Stage, one of the orchestrators with a really dry sense of humor said a joke:
"A cannibal said, I didn't like my mother-in-law.
Another cannibal replied, Have spaghetti instead."
But the joke-teller pronounced "cannibal" so it came out like a "camel." This recording engineer stood there dumb-struck trying to figure out what the "camel" said, and then we all rolled on the floor laughing at his priceless facial expression. This joke only works when spoken ... not written :)
The worst experience was working on a film where the director was shooting his next job on another continent and I had 3 weeks to deliver an action score. There were all sorts of disconnect in communication, work flow, and creative guidance, and most all, lack of respect on his part. This job got the cake for "worst job ever" and unfortunately also burned my relationship with the studio. Oh well .... lesson learned.

[2vs8]: Who inspires you in your field and what was the last soundtrack/score did you buy or listen to... or both?

Penka: Like most composers I have very broad musical interests: classical (early music, chant, Baroque, 18-20 th Centuries, postmodernism), film and video game music (I listen to new scores daily), rock, 90’s electronica, jazz, roots music, The Lomax Collection, tons of authentic world music starting with a deep knowledge of Bulgarian and Middle-Eastern folklore, and on and on. Some recent game scores that inspired me were CRYSIS II and DEAD SPACE II. Recent film scores were SALT and ADORATION. But the truth is, besides music I get inspired by people's generosity of spirit, humanitarian good deeds and kindness, and making the planet a better place.

21 Questions: Jack Messitt [Director]

Jack Messitt
Director/ Writer/Producer of
Midnight Movie: The Killer Cut

A longtime Director of Photography, Jack Messitt made his feature film directorial debut with Midnight Movie – the Best Feature Film at the Chicago Horror Film Festival.

Messitt’s screenplay Trust was produced by TF1 International. The thriller starring Jamie Luner recently debuted in the US on Lifetime and Lifetime Movie Network and has aired on the numerous TF1 networks throughout international markets.

Jack has a library of completed original screenplays and recently finished the script Kaloyev, a drama for Bigfoot Entertainment based on the actual events surrounding the 2001 Uberlingen airline disaster. He also served as Story Consultant on Bigfoot’s feature film Irreversi, which filmed in Hong Kong and is in the final stages of post-production.

Jack’s visual flair and vast production experience comes from his background as a Director of Photography and Camera Operator. He has shot projects in Thailand, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Belgium, Canada, Philippines and throughout the United States, including the feature films Irreversi, Girl With No Number and The Curiosity of Chance. Jack was also the 2nd Unit Director on Irreversi and Girl With No Number.

His television work includes Fox’s Bones, Glee and American Idol, NBC’s The Event, Sons of Anarchy for FX, DirecTV’s CD-USA, Comedy Central’s Strip Mall and Oxygen Network’s Campus Ladies. Jack earned a B.A. in Journalism from Indiana University and a B.F.A. in Cinematography from The American Film Institute. Messitt is a former 1st Vice President of the Society of Camera Operators and editor of Camera Operator magazine.
 

-Tell us about your career and what you are currently working on or involved with?
I have been a cameraman for almost 20 years – I have worked mainly in TV on shows like Fox’s Bones, Glee, Sons of Anarchy and American Idol, NBC's The Event, Comedy Central’s Strip Mall, DirecTV’s live music show CD-USA and Oxygen Network’s Campus Ladies. My feature film credits include Irreversi (coming out this fall), Girl With No Number (also expected in the fall) and The Curiosity of Chance (out on DVD). Midnight Movie was my directing debut.

-Is this what you thought you would be doing with your life, what was your first passion?
Honestly, making movies was always my passion – but I first went to college as a pre-med major… It wasn’t a good fit and happily my passion won out.

-To whom do you credit your success to, who gives or gave you the most support?
Success in the entertainment industry is always a combination of factors: Luck, timing, relationships and perseverance. My career is no exception. Being at the right place at the right time with the right idea… I have a lot of people to thank for where my career has gone – too many to name here.

-If you could meet or work with [living or dead], who would that be and why?
Having been in the industry for a while now, I have actually been lucky enough to meet a lot of the people that were previously on this list: Clint Eastwood, Martin Scorsese, Luc Besson, Jim Cameron and others… So I’ll go with someone that is impossible to meet today: George M. Cohan – He was a Broadway song and dance man back in the 20s and 30. An amazing storyteller in his day!

-What would you like to be remembered for 100 years from now?
For being a good father…

-Who inspires you?
I try to pull inspiration from as many people as possible. The more you can get inspired, the better both your work and life will be.

-How are things different today, than the same day 1 year ago?
A year ago, I was sitting in a dark little room re-editing Midnight Movie.  Midnight Movie: The Killer Cut is finally out on DVD, so I am really excited to finally show off all the hard work from the past year.

-What is the last song you bought or listened to in your musical device?
The place I listen to music is in my car. My favorite station is XM Radio’s Cinemagic. It is nothing but film scores. A good film score can really spark the imagination, so I actually get some of my best ideas while driving.

-Last good film you had seen, and the best movie you would recommend to someone asking?

Limitless is on my recommended list. I didn’t think that it was a perfect movie, but it was extremely well directed. In lesser hands, this might have been a train-wreck. But I was very entertained.

-What is the single greatest moment in your life?
The birth of my son… It a cliché, I know, but it’s true.

-Favorite Horror Film?
The Shining… It sets such a great mood and has so many iconic images. Kubrick knew what he was doing!

-Favorite Book?
My favorite books are by Michael Connelly. He can definitely tell a story. He writes rich characters and put them in situations that keep the pages turning. I always buy his latest!

-Favorite Song?
This changes too often to answer.

-Favorite Film Character?
Rick Blaine from Casablanca. Bogart really had it going!

-Favorite Film Composer?
Because XM Radio’s Cinemagic is always on in my car, I listen to a lot of film music. It is tough to nail down a favorite. My top 5 would have to be:

Danny Elfman –For a big bold comic book score, there are few better (Batman, The Flash, Dick Tracy), but I love his quieter scores too. Edward Scissorhands is awesome!

Howard Shore – Lord of the Rings is a masterpiece. How can you compose Big and then that? That’s what I call range!

James Horner – Yes, there’s Titanic, but what about Apollo 13, The Perfect Storm, Glory, The Rocketeer – too many to name!

Jerry Goldsmith – Poltergeist, Rudy, Alien, Patton - Another one with far too many movies to list. I was lucky enough to sit in on a recording session for Star Trek: Nemesis. Listening to his amazing score with him conducting… A memory for a lifetime.

John Williams - He can write it big (Star Wars, Raiders of the Lost Ark) or small (Schindler’s List, Memoirs of a Geisha) – but it’s always the right music for the story.

-Favorite Thing In Your Home?
I have a huge photo of a white rowboat on a foggy lake… It’s inspiring to get lost in it.

-Favorite First Pet?
We had a family dog growing up, but my own first pet was a cockatiel named Snickers. He was a great friend, sitting on my shoulder while I did homework. But boy, was he a slob.

-Favorite Coffee Or Tea?
Coffee. Pete’s Major Dickenson’s Blend is a must every morning!

-Favorite Phrase?
Cheers!

-Favorite Hiding Place [Not that we are looking]?
The Griffith Park Observatory. It’s a great spot to get lost in a crowd and think.

-If you could tell someone something someone told you, "words to live by" what would that be?
John Candy in Planes, Trains and Automobiles – “Go with the flow. Like a twig in a mighty stream.”

21 Questions: Rebekah Brandes [Actress]


Rebekah Brandes
Bridget: Midnight Movie: The Killer Cut

Originally from Baltimore, Rebekah studied at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in Hollywood. Since completing the program, Rebekah has performed in numerous plays, commercials and films. Midnight Movie is her fifth horror film, her most recent being the Lionsgate feature, Grim Reaper. Rebekah recently completed a pilot for Showtime and starred in an original musical revue at the Next Stage theatre.

-Tell us about your career and what you are currently working on or involved with?
My job in this world is to do what I love. I consider myself incredibly lucky in that aspect. Just wrapped filming on “The Romance of Loneliness” with Lynn Cohen in Memphis, and I’m anxiously anticipating the release of “Midnight Movie: The Killer Cut!” on as well as the August 5th theatrical release of the official Sundance selection, “Bellflower”, which my good friends made with their blood, sweat and tears. And a few of mine.

-Is this what you thought you would be doing with your life, what was your first passion?
Absolutely. I would be a triple threat if I had any coordination or could carry a tune.

-To whom do you credit your success to, who gives or gave you the most support?
My parents were both financially and emotionally supportive, if not overjoyed at my choice in career. They are very proud of me, and I wouldn’t have half the opportunities I’ve had in life without them. I think I give myself a lot of support though, So I’ll take a little credit as well

-If you could meet or work with anyone [living or dead], who would that be and why? 
The Beatles, I’d be their muse. I don’t believe any further explanation is necessary.

-What would you like to be remembered for 100 years from now?
Being a good person.

-Who inspires you? 
People who respect others’ feelings as much as their own, and those who respect and value all life, not just human life.

-How are things different today, than the same day 1 year ago? 
Woah, that’s a broad one. I go to Von’s more often.

-What is the last song you bought or listened to in your musical device? 
Lust for Life by Girls

-Last good film you had seen, and the best movie you would recommend to someone asking?  
I liked Inception, the concept was sweet, the eye candy was delicious. I love you Leo. And you too, Joey! Best movie ever??? So Hard! Apocalypse Now…. Its pretty perfect.

-What is the single greatest moment in your life?
Oh I’m sure that’s ever changing, the significance of any particular moment past or future, but some of the happiest moments are maybe… the first time I looked up to see the Hollywood sign from inside Gower Studios on a job. It really felt like a dream come true. And falling in love.

-Favorite Horror Film? 
The Shining…. Of course! Can’t get any scarier than the scene where Danny walks into the room where his mother is sitting after he’s been beaten up. The slow walk, camera on the back of his head, the terrifying strings building in the score. Aaaaaah! I’m also a sucker for The Sixth Sense, though. That one scared the shit out of me.

-Favorite Book?
So hard… my current favorites are Mind Wide Open, and My Stroke of Insight, the classics are The Unbearable Lightness of Being, Consciousness Explained, Gone with the Wind and of course Harry Potter 1-7.

-Favorite Song?
Come on! Among the top are Something, Bell Bottom Blues, Angie, I Will be Grateful for This Day (I Will be Grateful for Each Day to Come), Broken Dreams Club.

-Favorite Film Character?
T-1000

-Favorite Film Composer?
Penka Kouneva

-Favorite Thing In Your Home?
My dogs.

-Favorite First Pet? 
Clifford the orange cat, the love of my young life.

-Favorite Coffee Or Tea? 
English Breakfast all the way, baby!

-Favorite Phrase? 
Oh, brother!

-Favorite Hiding Place [Not that we are looking]? 
Sleeping.

-If you could tell someone something someone told you, "words to live by" what would that be? 
It is what it is.

21 Questions: Daniel Bonjour [Actor]

Daniel Bonjour
Josh: Midnight Movie: The Killer Cut

Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, Daniel began acting at the age of three and starred in commercials, TV shows and theatre. In 1995, Daniel took on his first lead in an American film as “Ricky” in Night Siege: Project Shadowchaser 2 (produced by Nu Image/ Avi Lerner). Shortly after, he made the move to America where he took time off to finish school at Boston College. Since arriving in Los Angeles, Daniel has kept busy with a wide variety of roles ranging from award-winning festival films to outrageous mockumentary comedies. Later this year, you can look for him in two Lionsgate projects; Richard Speck and Bram Stroker’s: Dracula’s Guest, as well as the title role in Simon, an award-winning independent drama.

-Tell us about your career and what you are currently working on or involved with? 
I’m an actor born in South Africa and have been living in LA for the past 7 years.  I recently finished filming “Find Me” an independent drama in the vein of “The Big Chill”.  I’m also really excited to be apart of the re-release of “Midnight Movie: The Killer Cut” – one of my first films in LA.

-Is this what you thought you would be doing with your life, what was your first passion?
I never imagined doing anything else with my life.  Acting was and always has been my passion.  I feel so lucky to be able to do it.

-To whom do you credit your success to, who gives or gave you the most support?

My parents have always given me a tremendous amount of support.  They begged me to go to college, and once I did, they were with me 100% no matter what I decided to do.

-If you could meet or work with [living or dead], who would that be and why?
The list is endless.  I admire and wish I could work with so many actors just to see what I could learn.  But if I had to choose one, I think I would like to work with “young” Marlon Brando.  He changed the face of acting to what we know today.  He really invented the realism we see on screen now.

-What would you like to be remembered for 100 years from now?
I would just like to be remembered 100 years from now.  If its for my work, all the better.

-Who inspires you?
Fearless passion inspires me.  Anyone who has it or works to get it, I am inspired by. 

-How are things different today, than the same day 1 year ago?
I don’t think things are very different.  I have the same or similar mentality I did a year ago, and I think I will continue to do so.  Jobs, money, experiences vary slightly, but I don’t think it makes anything different.

-What is the last song you bought or listened to in your musical device?
Revolution by UltraLove.  Really cool, unknown artist.

-Last good film you had seen, and the best movie you would recommend to someone asking?
Last good film was Blue Valentine. A very real portrayal of real life. I would recommend Bellflower to anyone asking.  It’s a true independent film made out of pure passion for no money.  I think its coming out this summer.

-What is the single greatest moment in your life?
Walking onto my first set and starting my first scene before action was even called.  I was 12 and so excited to start that I literally started the scene before anyone was ready. 

-Favorite Horror Film?
Midnight Movie :)

-Favorite Book?
The Fountainhead

-Favorite Song?
Blowers Daughter – Damien Rice

-Favorite Film Character?
Frankie Wilde in “Its all gone Pete Tong”

-Favorite Film Composer?
Danny Elfman – If you created the Simpsons theme song and the Goodwill hunting theme.  You’re pretty good in my book.

-Favorite Thing In Your Home?
My guitar.  I’m really no good at it, but it pulls me away from reality every now and then.

-Favorite First Pet?
I had a Doberman with floppy ears as a kid named Minty.  She was the greatest dog ever.

-Favorite Coffee Or Tea?   
I go back and forth, but right now – Tea.

-Favorite Phrase?
The bee’s knees.  If you can use that in a sentence and get away with it, you’re pretty awesome.

-Favorite Hiding Place [Not that we are looking]?
The beach.

-If you could tell someone something someone told you, "words to live by" what would that be?
Be yourself.

iZombie Makes Some Noise @ It's On Random!


Hey Everyone,
   First, I got my first "Q and A" over at a fun place where there is art, weird stuff and zombies... and did i mention me? I was drive by blogging and came across "It's On Random" because we both shared our love for zombies. Britnie is a wonderful new friend and I encourage you to see what she has to offer, oh yeah read about me [on helium]... click now, click now... why are you still here.


Second, [Over at my Zombie Site] Alex from "alexjcavanaugh.blogspot.com" guessed my "Monday WTF answer is "The Edge" from the group "U2"... so he wins a prize. So you get a custom "z" dazzle zombie art from me of you, family, Kate or anyone you would like that I can get a photo of. Please email me and I will get started on it right away, so everyone have a grand weekend. 

Stay Out Of Trouble -Robocop

Jeremy [iZombie]

21 Questions: Brea Grant [Actress]

Brea Grant
Rachael: Midnight Movie: The Killer Cut

Brea is best known for playing Daphne Millbrook in the NBC TV series Heroes. She has also appeared Cold Case, Friday Night Lights, Max Payne and in SciFi's Battle Planet. Born in Marshall, Texas, she holds Bachelor's and Master's degrees in American Studies from The University of Texas at Austin. She also published the comic book, We Will Bury You with her brother Zane Grant, and artist Kyle Strahm. 

-Tell us about your career and what you are currently working on or involved with? 
Depends on the day. Currently, I act in movies and television, write and pitch comic books, and am co-producing a movie I co-wrote. I just wrapped on a movie called The Baytown Disco.

-Is this what you thought you would be doing with your life, what was your first passion?
Absolutely not. I was working on my MA in History when I decided to have a quarter-life crisis and become an actress. I had always wanted to act when I was a kid so I guess it’s not the craziest choice I could have made, but it definitely felt like it at the time.

-To whom do you credit your success to, who gives or gave you the most support?
My friends and family. I think they were all very confused when I decided to move to Los Angeles to pursue acting full-time, but supported me, came to visit me and have watched EVERY single thing I’ve ever done.
In addition to those who already know and love me, I’ve been blessed with strangers along the way who were willing to take chances on me – from my first agent to the first casting offices who brought me in to read to the first directors who took a chance on me (like Jack). I wouldn’t have anything if people hadn’t decided to risk giving a girl with no resume a role.

-If you could meet or work with [living or dead], who would that be and why?
As strange as it sounds, Jim Henson was my idol growing up. As a kid, I would pretended to be a guest on the Muppet Show chatting it up with Kermit and then possibly singing a song.

-What would you like to be remembered for 100 years from now?
Being authentic.

-Who inspires you?
My friends. They all set their goals and then achieve them – I have friends who have started businesses, blogs, worked for the best companies in the world – they’re amazing.

-How are things different today, than the same day 1 year ago?
My roles in movies are dramatically different. Last year at this time, I was prepping to play a dark-haired girlfriend who was going to law school and just wanted to settle down to have a baby. I just finished playing a blonde prostitute assassin who road a motorcycle.

-What is the last song you bought or listened to in your musical device?
Okkervil River’s new album

-Last good film you had seen, and the best movie you would recommend to someone asking?
Never Let Me Go – watched it last night and although it was slow, I thought it was beautiful.

-What is the single greatest moment in your life?
I’m so bad at questions like this. I’d say packing up my things and movie to Los Angeles on a whim. Turned out to be the best mistake I could possibly make.

-Favorite Horror Film?
Night of the Comet

-Favorite Book?
It changes constantly. Virtual Light by William Gibson or All About Love by bell hooks (that’s the only book I re-read every few years)

-Favorite Song?
First Day of My Life by Bright Eyes

-Favorite Film Character?
The first one that comes to mind is Lola from Run Lola Run or Amelie from Amelie – two women in strong in their own individual ways.

-Favorite Film Composer?
I have no good answer for that. I’m always impressed when directors do their own soundtracks, like John Carpenter or Robert Rodriguez. But I think my lack of answer shows how little I know about film.

-Favorite Thing In Your Home?
My dog Hattie. Also my roomba.

-Favorite First Pet?
I had a cat named Noseless when I was a kid. It really screws up that thing where you put your first pet with your street name to get your stripper name. I’m Noseless Grove.

-Favorite Coffee Or Tea?
Decaf green. I’m lame.

-Favorite Phrase?
Drive it like you stole it.

-Favorite Hiding Place [Not that we are looking]?
On top of my fridge where I can’t reach it.

-If you could tell someone something someone told you, "words to live by" what would that be?
Don’t take anything personally. 


Know the Rules of "Stripperland" [2011]

Stripperland [2011]
What could I possible say about this movie "Stripperland" that would make you want to see it, brought to you by "Cheezy Flicks"... is there anything that would tempt you? 

 What does it have, Zombies... YES! 
Does it have women Stripping... YES!

 Are there famous people in it... YES!

--------------------------------

--------------------------------

But what can I tell you to make you want to see it "They just want to eat you, nudity is not a good thing" it is a nice rip-off of Zombieland. It puts the "B" in B-movie and these are the kinds of films you are not suppose to take to serious, if you want that go watch "Green Fried Tomatoes. Here you get crazy strippers bitten by the zombie bug, though we are not to clear why [maybe I missed it].  Who cares, it is just fun and fun is what a movie should be about, will you leave learning about how to save the world from this type of zombie attack? Maybe?  Just ask Daniel Baldwin...

Midnight Movie: The Killer Cut! [June 14th, 2011]

The Color of Black & White
If you think you have seen the "Midnight Movie", wait until you experience it in the "Killer Cut" as it will to jump off the screen into your home. As the story unfolds from the grimy black and white travels down a dusty dirt road, into one man's unfortunate reality of the monster he holds inside. Where there is color and that color is red as the unsuspecting  movie goers sit watching history relive itself in the form of a movie not seen by the public in years.

SYNOPSIS
  Jack Messitt’s award winning horror film can finally be seen as it was intended. With new and enhanced visual effects, never before seen footage and extended scenes, what Movieweb.com called “a true modern day horror classic” just got better. With an “atmosphere that oozes dread” (Blu-Ray.com), Midnight Movie is “a gory and fast paced good time” (DreadCentral.com).
  It was just another rundown movie house in a small suburban town -- what better place for a midnight screening of a true cult classic? But this isn't your typical horror film, because five years earlier, the director and star of the movie made a bloody escape from a psych ward and may still be on the loose.
  When the film starts to roll, the heckling begins. But when one of their friends is viciously murdered in the very movie they are watching, laughter gives way to fear as the horrified audience realizes that it is no prank.

When they try to run, they realize that the same psycho they just saw on the silver screen has trapped them all in the theater. With no hope of escape and their numbers thinning fast, the survivors must figure out a way to turn the tables on the very same killer that they once rooted for in the cult slasher flick. Caught between reality and the screen's flickering shadows, they become the unwilling stars of the very horror movie they were watching.

All new and enhanced visual effects, never-before-seen footage and extended scenes, you might find yourself asking, "is this only a movie"? I say that "Radford" should be hailed and accepted into the slasher hall of fame with such characters as Freddy, Jason, Michael, etc.

So if you want a good time and a solid film with a Leatherface meets Jack Slater type of feel I point you to seeing "Midnight Movie: The Killer Cut!" As I had been talking with director Jack Messitt over the last several months about the re-cut, "trust me you will like it"... I say hell yes, I did... though I didn't like it, I loved it...

I would like to see "Midnight Movie II: Radford's Revenge... cause remember there is a theater near you and that heavy breathing on your neck might not be your date. I will always look at the seats around me... thanks Jack forever making it not just a movie theater anymore.

Jeremy [iZombie]

21 Questions: Michael Schwartz [Actor]

Michael Schwartz
Sully: Midnight Movie: The Killer Cut

Michael Schwartz is a graduate of the University of Southern California and also studied at the British American Drama Academy in London. In the past year, Michael has performed on various Los Angeles stages in Company (Bing Theatre), Marat/ Sade (Sacred Fools Theatre, LA Weekly Award: Best Production of the Year) and 42nd St. (Fullerton Civic Light Opera). After filming Midnight Movie, Michael participated in the Director’s Lab at Lincoln Center in New York.

-Tell us about your career and what you are currently working on or involved with? 
While I continue to act in film, I have focused a lot of my time since shooting “Midnight Movie” directing theatre. In the last few months, I have Assistant Directed both at the NY Philharmonic with Company, starring Neil Patrick Harris and Stephen Colbert, and at A.C.T. in San Francisco. I am currently working on the film version of Company, which hits movie theatres nationwide June 15th, and I’m also directing a short musical at the Old Vic Theatre in London next week, where Kevin Spacey has been the Artistic Director for the last 6 years. I hope to continue balancing my life as an actor and director, in both theatre and film.

-Is this what you thought you would be doing with your life, what was your first passion?
I never had a doubt. Would the 5 year-old kid who raided the Halloween costume closet to put on elaborate shows with his friends be doing anything else?

-To whom do you credit your success to, who gives or gave you the most support?
I certainly wouldn’t be where I am today without the guidance of strong mentors and the support and good humor of close friends. But seeing as how I still e-mail little articles and anecdotes back and forth with my parents nearly every day, I’d have to give them the majority of the credit.

-If you could meet or work with [living or dead], who would that be and why?
You know, I literally have journals and journals of lists on things like this. Well there’s not much point in naming someone dead, though I would have loved a coffee with Van Gough. I’ll say both JJ Abrams and Joss Whedon, two endlessly creative and ambitious men. Growing up on musicals and X-Men comics, my appreciation of Hugh Jackman is great. I’ll throw Fincher in there too. He hasn’t made a film I haven’t liked and admired.

-What would you like to be remembered for 100 years from now?
Someone who constantly strives to build and connect communities around the world through storytelling and art…And wasn’t a jerk about it.

-Who inspires you?
People who stay true to who they are with grace, clarity, and good humor.

-How are things different today, than the same day 1 year ago?
Hm. More weddings…I finally got a New York Winter coat….I didn’t think it was possible, but I have even less days off now. Oh. Oh. You know what’s different? I’ve started framing all those things I always wanted to frame. Framing is expensive. But ya know what, it’s totally worth it.

-What is the last song you bought or listened to in your musical device?
Lost Cause by Beck. (It’s featured in the show I’m directing at the Old Vic, aptly titled, Lost Cause.)

-Last good film you had seen, and the best movie you would recommend to someone asking?
Oh man. Well. I saw “Bridesmaids” last week. Loved it on every level. My last rental was “Rabbit Hole”. Loved that too. I’m a big fan of John Cameron Mitchell. As for recommendations? I’d have to know what the person was in the mood for.  Romance? How about “Before Sunset”. Foreign? “Lives Of Others”. Slit-your-wrists depressing but astonishing, musical and revolutionary? “Dancer In The Dark”. Take out the slit-your-wrists depressing part? “Once”.

-What is the single greatest moment in your life?
That time I beat my older brother and father to the top of the Grand Canyon by over 2 hours. Wusses.

-Favorite Horror Film?
The Shining.

-Favorite Book?
To Kill A Mockingbird. Runaway Bunny. The Wisdom of Insecurity.

-Favorite Song?
Oh come on. One? Coltrane. “In A Sentimental Mood”.

-Favorite Film Character?
Chunk. Goonies.

-Favorite Film Composer?
Thomas Newman and Gabriel Yared are real consistent for me, though if Trent Reznor keeps up for the next 15 years, I may change my answer.

-Favorite Thing In Your Home?
The vintage cameras I took from the dark room in my grandfather’s childhood home in Brooklyn before it was demolished last year.

-Favorite First Pet?
I had a rat as a kid named Odg. A real smart anagram for God. Clearly. I would talk to Odg and Odg would talk to me and I thought I was the second coming of the Joan of Ark. So yea, I was a totally normal kid.

-Favorite Coffee Or Tea?
I am a fan of the Starbucks green tea latte. I just wish the iced version wasn’t, ya know, 99% ice.

-Favorite Phrase?  
Non Illigitemi Carborundum.

-Favorite Hiding Place [Not that we are looking]?
I played Hide and Go Seek In The Dark with my Dad and brothers growing up. There was a coat closet in the basement that had a secret closet inside of it. I would literally hide there for HOURS. Like, my Dad would give up, my family would have dinner, go to bed, and I’d remain perfectly still and silent, eyes closed, in Narnia or Oz or wherever I thought I was. I was clearly quite competitive by nature. Even if nobody else seemed to be interested in the competition.

-If you could tell someone something someone told you, "words to live by" what would that be?
The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance…Oh. And never eat yellow snow.

21 Questions: Michael Swan [Actor]

Michael Swan
Dr. Wayne: Midnight Movie: The Killer Cut

In the early seventies, Michael Swan began his career with a recurring role in Medical Center. This led to 17 years of starring and guest appearing in some of the most popular prime time shows of the ‘70s and ‘80s; including MASH, The Rockford Files, Magnum PI and Murder She Wrote. In 1986, he began a decade stint as Scottish adventurer “Duncan McKechnie” in As the World Turns. He continued in the soap opera world in The Bold and the Beautiful, as well as worked in commercials, voice overs and films.

-Tell us about your career and what you are currently working on or involved with? 
I’ve been a professional actor for 41 years and have been gratefully successful in Prime-time Television, Daytime Television and Voice Over. I have recently been involved in many commercials as a spokesperson and character, and playing bad guys in Roger Corman monster movies.

-Is this what you thought you would be doing with your life, what was your first passion?
This is exactly what I’d hoped I’d be doing. I was a member of the Palo Alto Children’s Theater at 9 years old.

-To whom do you credit your success to, who gives or gave you the most support?
I was “discovered” by the late, great Gary Shaffer, who was one of the founding members of CSA and was casting at MGM television when I first came to town in the early 70’s. My late mother, Alys Swan, was very supportive and continued to encourage me throughout her life.

-If you could meet or work with [living or dead], who would that be and why?
Oh so many. I did get to shake Cary Grant’s hand in front of the Thalberg Building at MGM many years ago, and have worked with some of the biggest stars in the business including Rock Hudson, James  Garner, Joan Collins, etc…

-What would you like to be remembered for 100 years from now?
It will probably be the long running character from As The World Turns, “Duncan McKechnie”.

-Who inspires you?
Talent around my age who keep on keeping on – guys and girls whom  you’d recognize and I see every day at auditions.

-How are things different today, than the same day 1 year ago?
I’m healthier.

-What is the last song you bought or listened to in your musical device?
Don Ho, “Tiny Bubbles”

-Last good film you had seen, and the best movie you would recommend to someone asking?
THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO. Two fave films are SILENCE OF THE LAMBS, BASIC INSTINCT.

-What is the single greatest moment in your life?
The birth of my daughter.

-Favorite Horror Film?
MIDNIGHT MOVIE

-Favorite Book?
ATLAS SHRUGGED
By: Ayn Rand

-Favorite Song?
Nessum Dorma (English: None Shall Sleep)

-Favorite Film Character?
Hannibal Lecter

-Favorite Film Composer?
Bernard Hermann

-Favorite Thing In Your Home?
My iPad

-Favorite First Pet?
Pat or Mike

-Favorite Coffee Or Tea?
Pete’s Major Dickson’s

-Favorite Phrase?
My line from CLIFFHANGERS, my series with Susan Anton, “Take your tambourine and beat it, Sweetheart.”

-Favorite Hiding Place [Not that we are looking]?
I’ve nothing to hide.

-If you could tell someone something someone told you, "words to live by" what would that be?
Stanislavski said, “Love the art in yourself, not yourself in the art.”
 

Midnight Movie: The Killer Cut!

Don't sweat it, but don't forget it!
Now I had been saying that the film "Midnight Movie: The Killer Cut!" was getting a July release, but truth is that is released in June on the 14th...

So hear me now "June 14th"

Amazon:

21 Questions: Melissa Steach [Actress]

Melissa Steach
Babe: Midnight Movie: The Killer Cut

Melissa Steach graduated from the Alabama School of Fine Arts. She has worked on the stage and behind-the-scenes for countless Off-Off-Broadway productions. Since arriving in Los Angeles, Melissa has appeared in the feature film The Kid and I with Henry Winkler, in the independent films Glenna’s Bedroom and What About Jane, and in various television shows. She also starred in Psyche at the Hudson Theatre and in Angel for the award-winning Unity Players Ensemble.

Tell us about your career and what you are currently working on or involved with? 
I'm developing a new venture for a Berkshire Hathaway company.  Ironically, a corporation hired me because I'm a creative entrepreneur and even more ironic - they love that I work as an actor.  Go figure.
Is this what you thought you would be doing with your life, what was your first passion? 
My first passion was to be Indiana Jones. I guess, in a very small sense I have been with all the places I've lived, things I've studied and work I've done.
To whom do you credit your success to, who gives or gave you the most support? 
Me. I have been inspired by that thing in me - which I believe is innate in humankind - to grow and give to others. Leaving behind a world that grows ever stronger, wiser, kinder.
If you could meet or work with [living or dead], who would that be and why? 
Toss up between Stanley Kubrick or Julian Schnabel or Darren Aronofsky (did you see Pi?).  Anyhow, I like to juggle.  Three is a good number.
What would you like to be remembered for 100 years from now?
Having been present, and brave, enough to be me.
Who inspires you?
Women.
How are things different today, than the same day 1 year ago?
How are they not would be a more concise question for me to answer...
What is the last song you bought or listened to in your musical device?
"Live Your Life" by TI featuring Rihanna.  On Pandora this mornng while working out.
Last good film you had seen, and the best movie you would recommend to someone asking?
Black Swan.
What is the single greatest moment in your life?
So many moments feel that way in the moment and that feels great knowing there will always be more of those moments to come.
Favorite Horror Film?
The Others
Favorite Book?
As I Lay Dying (tied with) Invisible Man (tied with) The Fountain Head
Favorite Song?
"Love TKO" by Teddy Pendergrass
Favorite Film Character?
"Barbara Covett" played by Judi Dench in "Notes On A Scandal"
Favorite Film Composer?
Has Zimmer
Favorite Thing In Your Home?
My bed.
Favorite First Pet?
My cockatil named "Tweety Bird"
Favorite Coffee Or Tea?
Black Coffee, black.
Favorite Phrase?
"I'll be where I'm at."
Favorite Hiding Place [Not that we are looking]?
The cafe patio of the Barnes and Noble at The Grove.
If you could tell someone something someone told you, "words to live by" what would that be?
"Honey! You will never win your own race if you are running someone else's..."

Melissa Steach - Home Page

21 Questions: Stacey Levin [Publicist]

21 Questions: Stacey Levin [Publicist]
-Tell us about your career and what you are currently working on or involved with?
I was a publicist for about ten years working at Jim Henson Productions, Nickelodeon and 20th Century Fox Television where I covered "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," "Angel," "Firefly" and "Arrested Development" among other shows.  Then I switched to programming and was the creative executive for "King of the Hill," "Modern Family" and "Lie to Me" among other series.  Now I'm the Director of Development at Universal Cable Productions.

-Is this what you thought you would be doing with your life, what was your first passion? 
My passion was always television, so I knew I wanted to write or produce it in some capacity.  This new development job is exactly where I want to be.

-To whom do you credit your success to, who gives or gave you the most support?
My parents were always supportive even when I dropped out of business school and spent years working for free as an intern on soap operas.  I also credit the Co-President of 20th Century Fox Television with a lot because she allowed me to make the switch from publicity to creative which doesn't happen very often.

-If you could meet or work with [living or dead], who would that be and why?
Wow, that's a tough one because there are so many - I think Hitchcock would be amazing because no one's brain quite works like his.  From current times, I love J.J. Abrams taste and style.

-What would you like to be remembered for 100 years from now?
For creating a classic television show that people are still watching.

-Who inspires you?
My friends and boyfriend inspire me; really talented writers who don't give up inspire me; people who face adversity and still triumph.

-How are things different today, than the same day 1 year ago?
A year ago, I had just recently been laid off and counting the days left of paid employment.  Today I'm three weeks into an amazing job - I'd say things have changed a lot! 

-What is the last song you bought or listened to in your musical device?
Embarrassing, but I just downloaded Britney Spears' new CD.  I'm still rooting for her!

-Last good film you had seen, and the best movie you would recommend to someone asking?
Haven't seen anything lately that's made an impression on me - sad, right?  There are so many amazing movies to recommend, but let's start with my two favorites of all time - Star Wars and Grease.

-Favorite Horror Film? 
The Shining, The Exorcist

-Favorite Book? 
Gone with the Wind

-Favorite Song?
 Livin' on a Prayer - Bon Jovi

-Favorite Film Character? 
Wow, another hard one... Probably Princess Leia

-Favorite Film Composer? 
John Williams

-Favorite Thing In Your Home? 
My original cel drawing of Disney's: Pete's Dragon

-Favorite First Pet? 
I can't pick one - I've only had three dogs and four rabbits in my lifetime.
-Favorite Coffee Or Tea? 
Coffee!

-Favorite Phrase? 
"Really?"  "Not for nothing" - it's a Staten Island thing

-Favorite Hiding Place [Not that we are looking]?
The Mall


-If you could tell someone something someone told you, "words to live by" what would that be?
"Be careful who you step on on the way up because those are same people you'll see on the way down."