The Filmmaker's Journey

FLAVORS - THE DIGITAL YOU

2012-02-15T04:39:00.003-06:00

Well I've now got a FLAVORS page to keep a hub of my social networking all in one place.

You can keep up with me on it at Flavors.me/bkgarceau

Find out more about FLAVORS

Sallie Mae "Signs"

2012-02-14T01:10:00.001-06:00

I edited a commercial back in December for the college savings loan company, Sallie Mae. I was tasked with working with the production house, MAKE+MODEL who produced the piece. The spot officially aired in Times Square on December 12th.

Head to MAKE+MODEL to watch the piece online.

You can also watch it on Vimeo.

MuteMath Odd Soul Concert

2012-02-06T00:30:00.002-06:00

This past week I got to see MuteMath play here in Los Angeles. This is my 7th year as a fan and it was great to see them in top form. I've posted some pics from iPhone...

Upcoming Projects

2012-01-28T01:12:00.000-06:00

So just over a week ago I mentioned that I would spend more time on personal projects and less on other people's projects... well I must of spoke to soon as I have pretty much signed up for two projects this week that will be for other people. They are projects I'm excited about too. So at least I'll enjoy every moment of both.

On other fronts I should be finishing another piece shortly! Actually, make that two pieces... So at least things are getting done and that's fine by me.

Sound Adventures Show Reel

2012-01-21T17:26:00.003-06:00

Last year I was involved with many projects that are only now finally seeing the light. I did a show reel for Sound Adventures, who do music for motion pictures and television. They are based out of Los Angeles and Switzerland. So by all accounts this was my first "international" project by nature. The reel has finally gone live and I share it with you below.

Soundadventures.tv

Year Four: Back to the Hot Seat?

2012-01-18T04:02:00.001-06:00

I've entered into my 4th year here in Los Angeles, and if feels like just yesterday I arrived, though I quickly remember this is now my home and I absolutely love it here. I've grown as a person; in talent, and approach to life. I've grown up a bit.

However this year, I want to do more then I've ever done, specifically on the filmmaking & directing front. An area that I have SEVERELY lacked in. Unlike my editorial which has a balanced diet mixed with a dash of creative flourish. This lacking is too real that I know must pull out all the stops... soon.

The first approach for me is to, sadly, limit my services to others. I feel I've become notorious for never turning down work or side projects. However now they've increasingly become a burden on my own creative life. With a jam packed work schedule my time for extraneous efforts is minimal and usually forces me to work into the early morning. While I love to do just that, I like to mix in some of my own projects.

But this year is going to be different. I'm planning on meticulously looking at each future project to see if I should be apart of it or not. Am I passionate about it? Will I be working with a team that cares about the art and craft as much as I do? Do I have the time to dedicate myself to fully to the efforts needed? Scrutiny will be my friend, keeping a careful eye on what I sign up for and what I have to pass on.

What is the scariest bit to me is the fact that I don't even have a family to care for and I can't seem to find a moment to engage in my own creative passion. It's a scary feeling for someone like me who thrives in a creative environment. The thought of being further limited from what I'm up against now is a bit daunting. But such is life.

Hopefully this year will leave me better prepared on approaching a project, as well as finding some satisfaction on my own creative front. Hopefully I'll be consistent in my approach and workflow...

2012 bring it.

The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo - Opening Credits

2012-01-18T03:52:00.003-06:00

If for some reason you've yet to see The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, then that means your missing out on possiblily the years best opening credits. Well you in luck, as io9 has an interview with the creative director, Tim Miller of BLUR, as well as the full set of opening titles...

Interview with Tim Miller

Crooked Arrows

2012-01-18T03:45:00.000-06:00

There is plenty going on in my world... too much. So here is the first bit. I worked a bit on a trailer for a new film, Crooked Arrows and the trailer has arrived online. Not too much, but enough to warrant a posting... enjoy.

2011: Movie Review

2012-01-01T17:19:00.001-06:00

In 2011 I saw a good amount of films. Not my most, but quite a bit.

2011 Movie Going Stats
246 Total Films
154 Films I saw for the first time
82 Films in the theater
85 2011 releases
18 Different Venues
32 Movies in the Month of July

Top 3 Theaters
Landmark - 19 films
AMC Century City - 18 Films
New Beverly Cinema - 15 Films

Favorite Films
- This list is always changing, so I'm just listing films that stuck out to me -
The Artist
Drive
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
Tree of Life
Midnight in Paris
Mission Impossible 4
Hugo
Shame
Moneyball
Tinker Tailor Solider Spy
The Trip

Plenty more exciting and rewarding films from the year... Also have to mention the entire cast of Tyrannosaur is amazing.

I'm truly excited I was able to catch this much cinema last year and I hope to keep it up... especially while I still have the time to do so! 100 films in the theater this year?

Challenge accepted.

A few from LA

2011-12-20T02:24:00.000-06:00

Just a few pictures from LA on Thanksgiving evening...

The Stock formally known as Film

2011-11-22T09:00:00.049-06:00

The following is a brief look at the changing landscape of film and to a lesser extent, the distribution of music.

It seems popular today, at least relevant, to discuss the changing cinematic landscape. Daily we are increasing our use, need and reliance for digital production. We have seriously begun our abandonment of 35mm in search for cheeper production costs, digital workflows, and 3D.The current 3D fad continues to take off, despite fears and box office underachievers. Filmmakers have really begun to embrace the new tool on their belt as this year we've seen the first 3D films from Spielberg, Scorsese, Wenders and Herzog.

As we move further into an all digital age of cinema we have to ask, where are we going? We've left film in the dust, but did we let quality go with it? I'm interested in questioning the output of the current film market. Are we even trying to make films that matter? Are we doing anything new and exciting? It seems like everything out of Hollywood is either a property with a built in audience or a sequel. Either way I find myself wanting something else… something different. Perhaps the awards season schedule has further scrambled an even output of films throughout the year as opposed to the the Fall/Winter time of year.

Ultimately I feel we are in a place where studios feel "forced" to go with movies that will guarantee a decent to good box office return. Ideally this is the hope every time a movie is green lit, but we rarely see the full fruits of a film by the time it reaches the theater. So it seems to me we continually take the safe road as a opposed to the road less traveled and I feel that we are "hurting" my favorite medium. Without engrossing our audience in new and intriguing ways or from various other angles I feel we have both short changed them and ourselves. I question our motives here because I feel we continually are hurting ourselves in the long run. In a world at our finger tips where we can venture in our own directions, we as a medium have left ourselves boxed in, digging a hole that seems fine now, but will certainly show its depth soon enough.

As an "artist" in the medium of film I wish to always strive to push the boundaries further. Discovering new ground and hoping that we haven't figured out every story worth telling. I want to show story. To express. Will I ever discover anything new? I won't know if I don't try.

So aside from 3D, what is the drive to go to the movies today (assuming that 3D is a viable grounds to base the future of movies on… I'm not sold yet)? Is it worth it? Are the movies any good? With aid (or curse) of home video and digital delivery services we have left the theater emptier then ever. Turnaround time these days from theater runs to home video runs are quicker then ever too (remember when it was 8 months to a year?). Why not just watch it at home? This what everyone in my family does, except me… I've been to the theaters about 70 times this year (going tonight…). Certainly I am in a small minority that still desire to sit in a black box. Exposing ones emotions with complete strangers. I even prefer to go alone, sorry friends, but I feel I can fully concentrate, take in and digest the film when its just me. It truly is still escapism for me.

Don't get me wrong there are the movies of the likes of Twilight that can garner 30 million from a midnight showing (See The Simpsons this week for a spoof on Twilight esq films). And that's great for the box office, but does it really challenge the audience? And is it even meant to challenge the audience? As a filmmaker, who wants to make films for a lifetime, I have to both applaud and turn my head away from these moments. I am happy that a film of any caliber can garner such viewership (aka box office gross) like the Twilight (or Transformers) movies in that people show an interest to still go to the movies to watch those films. But at the same time I want to shake my head in disgust that our American Audience would care to see robots bash each other for mindless action then a story with real human emotion. And without a rule that "you need to turn your brian off, for this film".

There are times when I wish I was more "active" in my own role of making films. Saving every penny, recording every image, writing scripts daily. I want to do that, I want that to be a key part of my professional life. When I see movies today, I can through their facades, whether it be story techniques, shoddy productions, questionable acting or perhaps a compromise in the edit room. Sometimes I go to a film, watch it and leave the film feeling that I could do better… Pretentious, no? I've never made my own 90 minute film (subject to change soon enough!) and whether or not I could make a more creative film then a load of films today is irrelevant to me. I think what it does do is building my confidence and frankly giving me the balls not be afraid of the daunting task that is ahead. Why not take risks, what do I have to lose? I'm sure I won't be far off in surmising that one day this won't be the case for me, but for now I'd like to just put it all on the line!

It's moments like this, when I go deep into thought on the subject and I ask myself "why am I sitting around, not pursuing this dream?". And for that question I don't have a singular, direct answer. Mostly I feel that these things take time (and money) and will fall into place soon enough and to a certain degree…

So is there a correlation between digital cinema and the shrinking box office attendance? Can 3-D save us? Or will we have a rebirth of films to carry audiences back into seats? If this is curtains how can we still share this medium we so love?

Before I answer that I'd like to draw a small correlation of the death of Film and Theaters to the CD and the Album. With the CD joining Film at an end of life stage and with the ability to buy music À la carte one could be lead to believe its a matter of time before the death of the album. Both the music and film issue stem from the advent of the personal computer and our current digital age. The fact that we can do everything on our own and in our own seclusion doesn't help the divide any. Put it this way, I don't go shopping at stores, I just buy it all online. Its easier and hassle free.

As starter bands struggle to find an audience and share their music they also face an interesting crossroads. While the internet has expanded some bands user base, we've also seen struggling sales due to piracy (also effecting theater numbers), that they are more likely to sell singles (or EPs) instead of albums. To be a band that's going to make it, you can't rely on album sales anymore, but rather a successful tour.

I feel its worthy to point out what Bono has been talking about lately. He has been unsure, why U2 should put out "new" music since everyone has one of their albums and has gone as far as saying, "we felt the 'album' is almost an extinct species…"1. Its not everyday you've got a big rock star wondering the future of their must with the future music market of the world. He's question comes from the abysmal sale of U2's last offering, No Line on the Horizon and its lack of a "real single". 5 million in sales isn't shabby, but its "rough" for U2. Even further off putting, with their tour wrapped up as the most successful and highest grossing tour of all time, do you need further proof that album sales can be a wash? If albums and CDs have come to pass, where are we going next?

One of my favorite electronic artist, Andy Hunter, has started to release his music a few tracks at a time. While other electronic artist regularly release a track on sites like Beatport. So as the question goes for music, the same goes for theaters, how should we present the mediums?

It's forward thinking like this that is needed in film (& music) distribution these days. How can we increase viewership? Is it just creating a great story? Or is it a carefully constructed balance of cinema and interest? I don't think their is a direct answer yet. I think each film will require a different approach. We need to be discussing what movies will be like in the future. YouTube has certainly dictated some changes to our approach to TV and Films thru various avenues and exclusive engagements. We can watch our favorite scenes from films, or mash-ups, behind the scenes and much more all without the need to ever put a disc into a player… not to mention the need to buy movies anymore… we can download if we like, both legally and illegally. The world is truly at our finger tips.

These questions hold plenty of relevance for me as a filmmaker. I too have to ask where is my film going to play. Can I get distribution? If I can't can I just release it on V.O.D? Or iTunes/Netflix… Will YouTube host my movie?

I write all this just to simply ask how can we change the game and reinvent our art? I'm sure there is not just one way, but I think the best way to begin is by taking chances again. They don't have to be drastic, but we'll have to test the water soon enough.

Ultimately, what is the future of film?

If your interested in helping save 35mm film then you can sign a petition below. Also at the link are articles by other movie websites on the topic of the death of 35mm - Save 35MM FILM

And if you interested in 35mm Revival Houses, look no further then the New Beverly Cinema!

Here is an article with Quentin Tarantino discussing these Revival Theaters in times when On Demand programming is fast taking over the market. Tarantino on Revival Houses

1 - http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/2009/oct/26/u2-bono-disappointed-album-sales

Silence is Golden - The Artist

2011-11-16T02:27:00.016-06:00

I recently was able to catch a screening of THE ARTIST, Michel Hazanavicius's black and white silent movie that is finally making its way to a limited theatrical run after premiering in May at the Cannes Film Festival.

It's unheard of in today's day and age to even imagine a movie being a pure silent film. So when I heard about the film I knew it would be nothing short of bold.

How will a film be able to hold a modern audiences attention for 100 minutes of silence?

I'd like to think that the film is asking the impossible of today's audience. For a moviegoer to sit in silence and just pay attention to the characters up on the screen. Aside from a tremendous score by Ludovic Bource, there is little sound to speak of and moments of complete silence (The venue I saw the film at had no popcorn or snacks; so no annoying chewing sounds). All that is left is to get lost in the performances up on the screen.

To think that 80 years back this was the norm is a rather odd thought. Chaplin doesn't seem like that long ago.

With this film we are one again challenged to ask if film has truly evolved by today's standards, leaving silent pictures in the dark and embracing dialogue and sound. I'd argue that the best performances and films entertain with a touch of silence. A moment to peer into another's self, perhaps a moment to cast judgement ones motives. Sometimes its better to say nothing at all…

At the very least the film comes as a fresh breath of air. I was surprised how connected I was to the characters and their own journey through the silent era and emerging in the talkies. Jean Dujardin and Berenice Bejo along with the rest of the cast slipped into the 1920s like they were still roaring today and truly capture our attention, releasing us from distraction. The fact that sound is used as an enemy to George Valentin (Dujardin) creates a clear moment in time of a ground breaking transition in cinema.

My own palette of emotions traveled from joy to sorrow and everywhere in between… It's rare to feel such emotions in films today at all. But its because these emotions are in the core of every human being that we can connect so easily, letting ourselves be vulnerable, as well as open to these characters.

I was trying to remember the last time I felt like this in a movie… and really the joy I had could be compared to the joy of a Pixar movie. The simplicity of character and story. For example Wall-e. Which I would deem the closest a big studio has come to presenting a near silent picture. Just a bunch of beeps and electronic noises fill the dialogue track till the 2nd half of the film. The fact you can (and do) end up caring for this robot, an animated robot, goes against all convention. You'd have to see it to believe it.

I was in great company at my screening of THE ARTIST as the film's director Michel Hazanavicius was on hand at the Q&A with Jeff Goldsmith to answer questions about his writing process for the film. Michel, as writer/director was also able to dive further into scenes and various other iterations of his script.

-Director Michel Hazanavicius-
I appreciate the producers of the film who stuck by Michel and his vision (Thomas Langmann was repeatedly thanked by Michel), as well as the financiers (and there were plenty) who stuck their neck's out just to get this film made (Film cost was about 11 Mil Euros). It's a huge risk and an even rarer feat, but when everything comes together there is a synergy on screen that can't be denied.

I'd like to think that while I'm just watching these films that I am still gaining an understanding of the craft. I know, that's a rather 'duh' moment, but as a filmmaker who is feeling "lazy" about making films as of late, I wanted to call this to attention. Either way I'm getting lessons from the filmmakers themselves. I see them take risks that go against the grain, not afraid to fail… and if they do fail, that they did so while by standing on their creative ground as an artist. At the very least, I'm inspired by cinema, it's images and sounds...

Other films I've also just caught up with these films:
Melancholia
Into the Abyss
Killing Bono
J Edgar

Most Anticipated Films left to see this year:

Girl With The Dragon Tattoo
Tinker, Tailor, Solider, Spy
Pina

Total 2011 Films seen thus far:
71

Even Better Than The Real Thing

2011-11-13T17:21:00.000-06:00

Not really film related, but interesting enough I suppose...

I may have gone overboard on this latest project...

Yes, it is hanging on one of my walls...

Malibu

2011-11-06T01:55:00.002-06:00

Some pictures from a trip to the ocean back in September.

Griffith Observatory

2011-10-10T05:27:00.000-05:00

Last month I took a drive up to the one and only Griffith Observatory and took pictures around the area. Plenty more pictures left to edit for other albums!

Next Stop: Editor

2011-10-03T21:21:00.002-05:00

This is one of those announcements I've wanted to make for some time. Its another part of this "journey" I'm on. Another achievement in the endless list of possibilities. Essentially just the next step.

I'm happy to reveal that I've been promoted to a full time editor position at the trailer house I'm at. Never thought it would happen this quickly, but grateful to say that its happened!

Now I just hope I have some finishes I can share soon! Or perhaps I can show some work that has already gone to finish... If your in France this week you may see one or two of my pieces over at MIPCON. Just saying...

Supporting Movies - Attack the Block

2011-09-22T02:17:00.006-05:00

If there is one thing I do just as much as I work it is going to the movies. Yep... Last two years I've gone to 52 movies in theaters... this year I will trounce that! Either way I've seen over 50 2011 releases so far (Theaters, Work, and Netflix).

But I wanted to point out 2 great films that are somewhat limited and of recent release (Will name the 2nd in another post). The first is ATTACK THE BLOCK. A film that is out of most theaters I believe and was a small and delightful UK import. Either way its out on Home Video in a month so you'll be able to catch it.

I caught the film on it's opening day back in July at a screening in Hollywood. Edgar Wright was in attendance and we actually spoke before the film. If you know me then you may know I have ran into Edgar at least 6 or 7 (8?) times in LA in the last year and I've never spoke or said anything... part of that's my part. I hate being that guy who bugs the "celebrity" (I'm sure Edgar doesn't refer to himself as a celebrity, but similar rules apply. Even for us nerds.) He was waiting in the lobby and I was with a friend awaiting another friend. And literally 8 feet away he was standing talking to Brian Lee O'Malley... (I leave that clue to you) so we approached and started a conversation. Edgar quizzed us on the film we were there to see and he quickly checked our tickets, seeing ATTACK THE BLOCK, he remarked, "I was fearful you guys were here for the Smurfs."

Either way Edgar introduced the film noting that we were about to see a film that,

"Was not a sequel,
not based on a previously published work,
not in 3D,
all practical monster effects,
and not your typical protagonist..."

With a loud yell it was clear the audience was ready for something different. What followed was everything that was promised; A quite inspiring monster film in the early veil of Speilberg's monster work that rose above any regular summer fan fare. And it was more fun that plenty of summer films.

What worked was again what was stated. The soundtrack introduces the world and the characters bring their clever sensibilities and go after the monsters who are invading their block. What also works is that the film never overstays it's welcome running at a cool 87 minutes. And it feels longer but in a good way. I felt there was very little wrong with the film, albeit its not up everyone's alley, but its very focused and never gives into the obvious. In a summer of huge lulls and lackluster sequels its was defiantly a treat.

Why I blog about this for the best reason I can think of; Promote original story. If we as an audience fail to attend movies that are different and unique then we too are to blame when we see the latest studio dribble make it to the big screen. So many times we clamor that movies are no longer original and what do we do when one does come our way? Most of the time it goes by the wayside and the studio goes, "told you so. They don't want that indie stuff. Give them the same old piece of meat with new faces, once again."

Again, even if this movie is not perfect, I would take this any day over your typical studio movie. And if without these films we will continue to see the audience numbers fall in theaters each year and one day we may not go down to the local theater... which is quite the shame since I find it to be the most unique way to take in a movie. Even in your theater at home you won't have sound that can compare, a screen big enough or even the annoying movie-goer sitting right next to you trying to steal your armrest. Its what makes going to the movies, "exciting". Watching it at home is simply trying to recapture the lighting that your originally saw the first time.

Very few movies can be so drastically different then the films of the time (Inception - and can be successful), but when they come around they are worth seeing. Check it out!

Photo Blog...

2011-09-22T01:44:00.004-05:00

Been a somewhat busy photographer then filmmaker these days. Not planning on changing for real, but it's been a nice outlet to refocus myself. Not to mention explore, appreciate and capture. Soon and I've beaten in like a dead horse, I'll return to fully engaging films!

Lately I've been cutting away at work... hope to share a cool video soon enough. Also finishing a cut for a Music Production company out of Switzerland. So busy times on the editing front.

As well as some news that I shall unearth soon!

But for now enjoy a picture or two or one hundred and three from my random summer collection. Plenty more to edit that I will later post. Hopefully I will make his a regular occurrence!

Summer 2011 //

(Notice my annoying watermark... may not include in the future)

Creative times ahead.

Behind the Scenes: Banner Music Video

2011-09-08T03:13:00.013-05:00

I posted The Surrender Sound music video, "Banner" just over a month ago -- See the video here.

This is a quick behind the scenes piece on the final shot in the video.

While shooting I refrained from using any VFX... except for the ending, which I concluded at the beginning would almost require some sort of compositing. My idea was to end with various banners falling from the heavens. Easy to write down on paper, harder to translate on screen...

The initial approach had me grabbing various shots for my background plates that I could then add banners to.

Upon the start of editing I took the shots I thought might work and narrowed them down, finally selecting one in a field with plants being blown by the wind.

I then proceeded to shoot the banners on my own private "backlot".

Translation
- I used a green blanket as a pseudo green screen
- Hangers and belts to hang a banner from my ceiling fan
- Lighting from the various lamps and bulbs in the room
- A portable fan to give the banner some movement.
- Different size banners for various shots

(click to enlarge)
I actually went through a few different setups and would load the shots into my system to see how the shot looked in a rough composite. It took a few different approaches before I landed on the perfect banner to appear to be held in the air.

The biggest plus was that the entire special shoot was right behind my edit bay, allowing me to simply get up and try a few more shots when trying to get the elements to move in sync with one another.

Overall this DIY method worked for the best as the banner really did seem to float in the sky, moving along with the handheld nature of the background shot. It's not every day you can employ a "green screen" at your place, but when you can, why not?

The Switch - Mouse for Pen

2011-08-25T03:14:00.000-05:00

I recently made up my mind to give editing with a pen and tablet a try. Its something about half the editors I know use day in and out. Its better for your hands and wrist in the long run, considering the hours we clock in post production and its just a more natural solution.

I had always feared making the switch as I have a love for the built in 360 scroll wheel on the Mighty Mouse. Yes, I skipped the Magic Mouse. The idea of touch is great, but to use the mouse the way I use a Wireless Mighty Mouse just doesn't make much sense to switch for that reason alone.

Working in a trailer house I have had plenty of opportunities to use the pen, but never with much luck. I really just never spent serious time building up the skill.

Being a forward thinking person (I'd like to think I am), I knew my hand may not last carpal tunnel free forever and that I should adapt now and get used to it. Thankfully Wacom, whom I first found out about back in Animation 1 in 2003, has a cheaper and equally as effective line of tablets, the Bamboo line.

They have various models from Pen to Touch and on and on... since it was a fairly inexpensive investment I figured I'd just take the plunge. I also was influced by my upgrade to Mac OSX 10.7 ("Lion") and its many touch based features. And being of the ever increasing touch screen junkie, these features were of some desire for myself. So I splurged (an extra $20-$30) for a Pen and Touch model. Which simply means I can use the pen or my hand, which allows me to utilize gestures. I will say this, currently the software doesn't support all of the gestures added to Lion, but it does support almost all of them. Specifically the 3 Finger gestures dealing with LaunchPad and Mission Control. Other then that I've found the touch experience to be great was well.

After setting up the Pen and Touch I went thru some of the tutorials before taking it for a spin. It's quite responsive, though I found that trying to scroll long distances, i.e. Documents and Webpages can be a pain... The good news is I can drop the pen and scroll that way, and I do like that a lot. But I also keep my old mouse near by as it's just a better internet surfing tool.

But I'm here to discuss the editing. In FCP it's now working flawlessly. I cut for 9 hrs straight the other day and not once did I feel and ounce of pain for soreness... its like I hadn't cut at all. The biggest plus is the selection process with the Lasso tool. Being more of a drag and drop editor, not to mention working with plenty of tracks of video, this is huge. I was quick with a mouse, but I'm just sick with the pen. And I think anyone can be.

I also love that you don't have to move around as much as the mouse to be precise in your editing. The smaller landscape is just so accurate. You barely move your hand and you go from monitor 1 to 2 and back again. You can also setup what the actual range of your tablet is. I know and editor that uses like a 2"x 2" for his whole screen and it's insanely quick.

Other then that the only difficulty I am having is just making sure I select clips and effects when I click on them as I am still trying to get used to click in the same place on the tablet. You'd think it would be easy so it registers as a click, but I have found plenty a way to screw it up and sent a clip over a frame or two.

The pen that comes with it is also sort of cheap. Don't get me wrong, it works great and feels fine, but we have the Wacom Intuos at work and theses pads and pens are fairly sick. Though for editing this package is more then fine and there are various pen options online.

All this to say, simply, that I highly recommend to editors that you look into tablets and give them a shot. I truly see why so many editors use them and have constantly recommended them to me. I love mine so much that I take it to and from work daily. And now I await one for my bay at work...

Visit Wacom for more on their products!

Random Bits -- I'm cutting a sick video at the moment... hope to share it, but it might not be till October. And I hope to share more of finished work from earlier this year.

Born to Be A Star

2011-08-13T03:35:00.000-05:00

You can see some more of my work online! I cut a very short interactive video spot for the new movie BORN TO BE A STAR (releasing Sept 9th). You can find it on movie websites currently!

Like at Movie-Tickets.com for the next few days.

Thanks to Arsonal for their flash handy work...

You're The Real Thing!

2011-08-01T01:23:00.002-05:00

I've posted the amazing music video to U2's Even Better Than The Real Thing before and I'll do it again at the end of the post. But this video in particular is about the piece of art comissioned for the opening of U2's Glastonbury performance. A video by Vanessa Wood, containing art by Damien Hirst, if I understand correctly.

(The video was removed, so you have to focus on the content in spurts during the actual performance.)

Either way I saw this during the Glastonbury performance and was just in awe of it, its quite a fantastic piece! Check it!

And the original music video -

The Surrender Sound - "Banner"

2011-07-30T21:27:00.002-05:00

Finally, its arrived!

The first official music video for THE SURRENDER SOUND, aka one Josh Taylor of Clairmont fame.

You can find out more about The Surrender Sound over at his BLOG.

I'll have more on this song and its video when the time arrives.

coming soon

2011-07-20T03:42:00.002-05:00

Robert Etoll Video -- Live

2011-07-18T03:28:00.000-05:00

I've finally got around to updating my website where you can now view the latest montage (Percussive / Trailer) for Robert Etoll Productions... If you haven't seen it, please check it out!

You can find it on the main page - bkgarceau.com

Or on its own special page - Percussive & Trailer Elements 3

Wrap it Up...

2011-07-12T17:54:00.000-05:00

Just finished off cutting and producing this music video... I am fairly tired. I would tell you what it is, but its a bit of a surprise. However you'll soon be able to see it when it launches later this month!

That doesn't mean I can't begin to recount the last... yikes, how many weeks? Oh wait, its only been a month.

Shooting began on June 10th - won't forget that -- around various locals here in LA... of course. And with the theme of open places, beautiful landscapes and sunny days we began... in June... better known as, June Gloom... yeah. Day 1 and we are out on the beach for sunrise at 6AM and it couldn't be more gray. Yeah I was bummed - so much so that I decided to return to that beach 3 times in the next 36 hrs. Just to get pick ups while we had afternoon sun to balance out the lack of color going on. However, now that post is done I can tell you that it actually worked better grayed then sunny... due to my method to color correcting this project. But you can't tell that on the outset.

From that morning I filmed almost the rest of the weekend, as well as the following weekend. Getting shots with actors and without, as nature was its own character in this piece.

After filming I had to wonderful task of breaking down my project and the 5-ish hours I had captured. This is always a long period. As much as I want an assistant to do this stuff for me, I find it immensely helpful for when I cut. I've seen everything and I recount most of what I've trashed, so I can go back and grab something that failed to work in one instance, but now works due to the latest developments. Alas it is very tedious and boring till you get to actual cutting.

I was also fairly busy with work, so cramming everything into my week was just madness... actually missed my 2 week post deadline... I mean it was a soft deadline, but its principal on my part. Okay, so I didn't leave work before 11PM any day one week, U2 was in town for the weekend...

So last week I actually finished a rough cut on Tuesday... spent a few days tweaking and had a solid V.1 Thursday. I then proceed to spend about 10 hours trying to achieve a visual effect. A, single, eins, 1. My concept it seemed almost impossible... almost ditched it. But I like to mess around. And so before I knew it, at almost 4 AM one morning I had gotten the look I wanted. Its nice to shoot something, ingest it and immediately know whats working. And then having the ability to go right back and shoot some more and improve upon it. I have to admit that I never achieved what I set out to do, but like in the past, I've found something better. Will post pictures of my wacky setup after the video releases...

Robert Etoll - Percussion and Rises Montage

2011-06-28T20:21:00.000-05:00

Robert Etoll released today a montage I just finished cutting for his this past weekend. Its for two of his new CDs in his Q-Factory Catalog, Percussive Elements 3 and Trailer Rises 3.

Currently its not up anywhere but his official website. So travel on over and click on Percussion and Rises.

Let me know what you think!

The FCPX Phenomenon

2011-06-27T00:34:00.003-05:00

Fantastic video on FCPX... it doesn't get more real then this!

UPDATED -- Vimeo seems to have taken it down... shame. Free Speech? Copyright? Bummer... - now up on YOUTUBE!

Update 3x Projects

2011-06-22T02:01:00.003-05:00

Been a busy last month... I'm currently cranking on 3 projects at the moment! One that may never see the light of day, but is seriously sick. And two others that will see the day, hopefully both over the next two weeks...

Get ready! I'm currently cutting all 3 at the same time... yes, I am mad...

Actually if FCPX was good I was thinking about purchasing it and moving one project over to it. Would of been a great test... but I'll save my money and use a version of FCP that is still working great!

FCPX - What the hell is happening?

2011-06-22T01:55:00.005-05:00

Everything just changed in this program!
Unless you've been living on Mars then you know that Apple has released FCPX to an onslaught led by unhappy professionals such as myself. There have been a plethora of blogs and article write ups on it… so why should I take the time to write my own? No reason… other then I care about the software I use and I'll admit I'm fairly shocked by what Apple is doing here.

When FCPX was announced back at the FCP Supermeet in Vegas back in April, I'll be quick to admit that I was really excited. There were lots of improvements and new approaches to editing. And if Apple could pull it off, then it could be a great new release, even a game changer. Which I was open to.

Heck the prospect of background rendering and the magnetic timeline were all I needed out of this release. It would be a revolution to my approach and thats what I want! Working in trailers (in my situation) this would provide me some huge time saving opportunities. I would not longer have to figure out how to break up my 12+ track timeline and figure out just how everything need to fit together.

So here we are, June 21st, FCPX is here and we can expose, I mean explore the program further. And the greatest fears heard along the way have actually turned out to be the truth. It's not ready for a Professional setting and as the day has continue we keep discovering more and more issues… well crap.

I'll further admit I was planning on snatching this up, Pro or Not… or so I thought. For me I liked the prospect of a new challenge -- different. I'm like that already, I don't use 3 Point editing often; I much rather drag and drop… so for me to try another NLE is sort of exciting. And for me the background editing and magnetic timeline were more then enough to justify this brand new application. Heck I still champion Safari… yeah, thats who I am. The other attractive point? Oh, duh its only $300… but that may be the revealing factor about what's under the hood.

It's immediately apparent that FCPX is not ready for true big time editing. Sure its great for one man setups, but if your a real professional, there is no way… (talking about any project with onlines/offlines and anything to do with finishing houses) It just flat out does not have the tools built in. It quite literally boggles the mind. Why would anyone release such a program?

We all know that Apple had rebuilt this program from the ground up and that nothing old remains, but why release and inferior production for professionals? And I don't have an answer. Unless they wanted to get something out to the public give them a taste… well then we should all be beta testers… but seriously, I think Apple would have saved serious face if they came out, introduced this product and told us it won't be out till the Fall and fully loaded. Not just put this out and expect us to adapt…

Think of Avid Media Composer. In recent years have they presented the latest iteration of a product not ready to compete with the version before? Adobe? You just don't do that. A product that people use for business and count on cannot just drop support like that and expect the same customers to line up. Its just not going to happen.

Having said that, remember when AVID last quit listening to their customers? Yeah, I think they learned their lesson and now they can reap the benefits of Apple's blunder.

If Apple's plan all along is to release updates along the way, adding the features missing then I think its backfiring. This has just been a shit storm of bad press. I've even retreated the latest Avid and Premiere news just because they both are becoming more relevant in the wake of this snafu.

-The ratings of FCPX after a full day of release. The ratings are in, FCPX sucks and I'm not a child for saying that.

Look I want to like the new version of FCP, but if its not going to give me what works in a professional environment, then its not worth shelling out the cash and trying it out. I have to use products that work for my clients projects, just as Apple needs to keep suppling me with the professional products that they have in the past, otherwise I'll pack my bags and head elsewhere.

Apple, listen to the professionals, the users and make FCP back into the great NLE that it was and can be. FCPX can be that, its just hasn't developed that way… and quit trying to make it more like iMovie… your cheapening your name and alienating professionals.

UPDATE: MacRumors has reports that updates are coming fast... we shall see, but you can read the report here.

Here is a fantastic article on Everything Missing in FCPX by Walter Biscardi.

Another great article putting the FCPX fiasco in another perspective... aka RIP FCP

Just Go With It on DVD June 7th!

2011-05-31T00:53:00.000-05:00

Heads up out there, if you see any Just Go With It ads for the DVD, this guy cut them! It another pretty cool moment, having Domestic Ads running that you play a significant role in!

I was out to see Hangover Part II tonight and I actually caught one of my ads playing before the movie! It's pretty cool to sit in the theater and watch it play...

"Clarity, Humility and Peace" - the surrender sound

2011-05-10T17:15:00.002-05:00

My good friend Josh Taylor, of Clairmont fame, is currently raising awareness and funding for his side project, The Surrender Sound. The album, "Clarity, Humility and Peace" will is a collection of songs for the church, all inspired in times of prayer, study, and reflection. They are seeking funding to cover costs such as mixing, mastering, photography, duplication, etc etc.

Please check out the video and think about helping Josh out. Thx

Moby - "AFTER"

2011-05-09T14:39:00.002-05:00

Check out my latest Director/Editor project - a music video for MOBY's Hello, Future contest.

MOBY - "AFTER" from BK Garceau, III on Vimeo.

"After" is from Moby's latest album DESTROYED, releasing May 17th.

This video came together like a whirlwind. Found about the contest last week of April, 2 weeks before the deadline. We organized a shoot for that weekend, I wasn't even sure what I was going to be shooting till we just started rolling the camera.From there an idea developed and came together.

After the shoot (pun) I began to setup my project, but never got to editing until this weekend. And basically I am coming off of a 20 hr shift... literally I was up 22 hrs yesterday and 20 of them were spent right in front of the computer. Surprisingly I was never tired or bored... and at 6AM this morning, everything was uploaded and done.

Quite a fun shoot, considering it was a one man show... but its good exercise and just a different range and approach to shooting. Keeps you on your toes when you have little or no time to plan... though for what little time I did have, I had a pretty precise plan and schedule. I owe a lot to the time spent planning.

This was a great call for a contest by Moby, Vimeo and Saatchi & Saatchi... really calls out all kinds of filmmakers...

Music video and Mix?!

2011-05-06T02:32:00.002-05:00

Last week I was inspired by a music video contest for Moby's new album, Destroyed and basically shot an entire video last weekend... anyway, I am literally editing it at the moment, as it is due Monday evening! Chop, chop!

Also yesterday... Wednesday actually, I got to sit in for my first mix! I served as an editor on a ad for Just Go With It and had to go and approve both the audio and video mix... it was swanky. It was nice to just sit back and look at your work while someone else controlled Pro Tools and did their thing... not bad at all... moving up in the world.

If the spot hits the web, I will share it! Look for it in cinemas!

April 28th

2011-04-29T03:11:00.000-05:00

Forgot to post earlier, but 10 years ago to the day (April 28th), Jonathan Graves and I began shooting 'Dumb Dudes' which officially kicked off our careers as filmmakers.

And what were we shooting? Why me riding a bike off a ramp and eating it! If I can find a digital version of this, I'll post it. I think its stuck in the analog world at the moment... hmm.

Here is to many more decades of filmmaking!

ONE DAY now Online!!

2011-04-29T03:07:00.002-05:00

Finally! I've made my latest film ONE DAY availble on YouTube and Vimeo! Please stop by, give a us a view and some feedback! Note, its broken into 2 parks on YouTube, since I've yet to achieve elite status and have videos longer then 15 mins... boo.

One Day on Vimeo

One Last go for 'ONE DAY'?

2011-04-24T19:30:00.000-05:00

Got word a few weeks back that my friend, Mikel Wisler wanted to play 'ONE DAY' at his Film Forum in Boston this June. Being a friend and fellow filmmaker I immediately said yes! So anyone interested in the Boston area is certainly welcome to look into his showing and discussion of the film. I will be posting more info from Mikel when it becomes available.

You can see Mikel's Blog, Cin-posium.

And ONE DAY will soon be making to the online world, very soon!

LA FILM WEEKEND Round Up

2011-03-28T21:57:00.002-05:00

This past weekend saw the end of what I would call a great run for 'One Day'. A film that first premiered back in May 2009 in Waco, Texas. I'm speaking of the illustrious Baylor Blackglasses Film Festival. And its final screening here in Los Angeles (where I have since moved to) at the LA Film Weekend Festival. Which took place literally 2 miles from my place. This also marked the 16th Official Selection, something which I've never come close to before.

We arrived for the screening at the Laemmle Music Hall on Saturday and quickly discovered that our film had been printed onto the tickets. Not sure about you, but most filmmaker's get a little excited to see that. It show's you've made it somewhere and that your being recognized.

Things went off well from there with a solid crowd, not too big, but always great to have new eyes in front of your material. And for me it was an easier screening to watch. Most of the time I have butterflies and fits of rage over my decisions. But this time, just a few times I felt I could of done something a little different. Always nice to enjoy your film a little.

After the screening I took this chance to suggest Kate Mantillini for lunch, which was right across Wilshire. For me that was a nice culmination of events. If you didn't know, this is where the famous Robert De Niro/Al Pacino scene from HEAT took place. And if you've seen my film, or know me personally you know that HEAT and Michael Mann have a serious influence on my work. So this was again an geeked other great way to round things out.

I even out and immediately asked if we could be sat at "the HEAT table". Which isn't a somewhat irregular request. And thankfully it was available. Even if its been 15 years and tons of people later, its still an icon worth noting in my book.

Other then that the festival rounded out on some solid levels as we took part in a mixer on the roof of the Thompson and the awards the following day. All and all, it was a pleasurable experience and an appropriate send off for the film.

And if its couldn't be more apparent, I'm finally not longer sheltering a film and thus have to get going on this next short film, based on an idea I had almost 2 years ago... soon. Hopefully, soon!

200th Post -- Assistant Editor

2011-03-22T03:10:00.001-05:00

What a great 200th post, I officially have finished my first day as Assistant Editor at my current place of business! Very exciting stuff. Have my own edit bay and chinese lantern to light my way.

Hopefully this will lead to some even bigger things to share in the future. But as for this part of the journey, I'm glad to have reached the next peg.

Coming up -- ONE DAY screens this Saturday, 2:10 in Beverly Hills at the LA FILM WEEKEND! Join us there! This is the final screening of ONE DAY... though you can catch it on my website! And soon, Vimeo.

Finishing up another video I cut -- 2 versions actually. Pretty cool stuff. My first period piece!

The film PEACH PLUM PEAR that I cut a trailer for continues its success by winning BEST OF SHOW this past weekend in Toronto! 2 festivals and essentially 2 best film awards! The trailer has also garnered almost 8,000 views on YouTube alone -- which is my biggest audience yet!

And one of these days I'll make another short... the wheels are always turning!

ONE DAY tickets

2011-03-13T20:51:00.000-05:00

If you want to join us for the final screening of ONE DAY, you can get tickets here!

LA FILM WEEKEND TICKETS

ONE DAY at the LA FILM WEEKEND

2011-03-11T00:08:00.002-06:00

One Day will be playing on SATURDAY March 26th at 2:10 PM in the LA FILM WEEKEND.

The venue will be split between the Laemmle's Music Hall and the Writers Guild Theater...

You can find additional details at the LA FILM WEEKEND website.

2011 LA FILM + MUSIC WEEKEND

2011-02-17T15:47:00.002-06:00

Just a quick blip on the radar -- One Day was accepted into its final submission at the LA FILM + MUSIC WEEKEND, March 15-27 in Beverly Hills...

"Just Go With It" Intl TV Spot

2011-02-16T15:28:00.002-06:00

Here is a TV Spot I worked on...

Crusin' Memory

2011-02-08T23:00:00.005-06:00

This particular story doesn't have much to do with my filmmaking, but its one that still brings excitement.

Back in November of 1997 I met the fruits of my childhood labor. At that time I would work on the weekends for my dad, cleaning house and mowing the lawn. After a few weeks I had saved up enough to co-buy a Nintendo 64 with my sister. It was a great day of achievement!

I can still remember being at Walmart off FM 1960. Picking out the console and the game, Cruisin' USA! The arcade game totally got me. So much fun!

Either way, the best and most vivd memory was the following Monday Morning. I had started a race or something before going to school and had to leave the console on while I went to school... not too happy about that and not to mention a little worried about it overheating...

I get to school and for some reason I wasn't feeling very well and soon made a trip to the nurse. They took my temperature and I tried hard to force a fever. And by some miraculous stretch they told me I had a 102 fever. Beautiful, couldn't have planned it better myself. So while the nurse called my mom I waited in the office. And what I remember vividly and what spurred this entire post, was the screensaver. The classic pipe screensaver. I just remember starring at it, knowing I would soon be home and playing my game... Its the little things I like about the memory. The choice morsels I have clung on to for the last 14 years.

I guess if I was drawing some conclusion here it would be that I was a diligent and hard worker, always planning ahead and perhaps I can force a fever when needed... or maybe I just have a decent memory for the details?

First Finish

2011-02-05T02:28:00.006-06:00

A few days back I mentioned getting my first finish on a campaign and I'm happy to reveal its for Adam Sandler's new movie, JUST GO WITH IT.

Further more, Youtube is currently featuring a slew of 'Just Go With It' banners on its site. A few of which I am happy to say I cut together!

For instance the first bit of video that plays when you load the page is one of the pieces I cut... granted its a whooping 8 seconds, but someone had to do it! Its the little things that make it special for me. I can hear the audio edits I made and immediately it bring back the decisions that were made.

Either way, its just cool to have cut a tiny piece of video that people get to see!

Check out the banner on YouTube before its gone forever!

UPDATE: Some other content I cut/helped on I've spotted on IMDB.

Never Say No

2011-01-27T12:04:00.003-06:00

Well no, don't say that. If you need to, yes do; say no... confused? (grammatically correct? who cares?)

Typical scenario:
You present a cut to a client and get their reaction and most of all their changes. For me I tend to disagree off the bat (at least in my mind.) I really have to see life in the idea before I can commit and more realistically, I have to take "ownership" of the idea. But meeting in the middle ground certainly is steep and most of the time I'd like to flat out say "No".

This lesson has been more or less true for the 10 years I've been editing (already 10 years!), but it has really made an impression on me and my passion to edit lately. Specifically when it comes to a disagreement with someone about a project I'm cutting. Like the scenario above, your told a direction to go in, would rather reject it, thinking it will screw the project. I know I get it almost every time I collaborate. I'm honestly like, "really? You want to do that?". There is that doubt that you can pull it off and for a good reason, your the editor. You've spent the most time with the footage and honestly you would have done it that way if you thought it worked the first time you began cutting the piece.

However, I think the smartest thing to do is to actually listen, even if you wholeheartedly disagree, since you really have no idea what will come of these changes. Now they could possibly be the worst changes you ever make; no doubt thats where the fear comes from, but sometimes they are surprising. And usually for me, its the hybrid that works out best. My idea melded into a Frankenstein of various other ideas with a solution that meets somewhere in the middle. If that made any sense, raise your hand.

Literally though, this happens all the time to me. I am very resistant (selfish) to other ideas, but constantly find myself mulling it over and giving it a shot. And at the very least I can prove that yes it was a bad idea or that I tired it before. But sometimes you know your close to something better and its the very taste you need to keep exploring.

What this really comes down to is my own ability to dance around an idea I have with both sides of my brain. Each contributing a idea and then me trying to meld them into something unique. It can certainly be a challenge and doesn't always bear fruit, but you'll have a chance to exercise your horizons.

To take it bigger, you could really apply this form of thinking to various activities in film and life... its really just a simple life lesson to opening your ears and listening to other people. I know I am more then grateful that I've taken the time to listen, reflect on the ideas and decisions before bartering with myself.

Its the magical art of collaboration and I recommend it to everyone.

Resolutions & Finishing Thoughts

2011-01-18T23:41:00.004-06:00

At the start of 2010 I set out a few resolutions. I think about half of them were more goal driven and more privy to my career as an editor. There were two particular ones on the list.

The first was to "show a TV Spot or Trailer to the client". Back in September I accomplished this goal and even got to sit in on the notes. So that was super exciting. I ended up doing it a few more times that year.

The other goal was really an addition to the first goal. To "finish" a TV Spot or Trailer. In some wild part of my head I thought it may be possible to do even though I am not an "editor" at the office. This one did not happen, and I wasn't saddened since I had already hit the initial mark.

Well, funny how these things work out. Because before I could sit down and write out my goals for 2011, I achieve this one. Actually the third day back to the office we finished my first TV spot. This coming two years and two days since I arrived in LA... not bad considering I haven't been out of school for 2 years yet... and if this is bad and I'm a poor slow fool, then my bad.

Funny enough we went on to finish a few more of the spots I finished cutting. When it rains it pours? I'm not sure I can say what I finished on, but here's a hint, its out in a few weeks and stars someone we work with quite a bit... If I find any online in a few weeks I'll pop it on here...

Peach Plum Pear Trailer

2011-01-15T18:03:00.006-06:00

I recently just finished cutting a trailer for a new indie film, Peach Plum Pear! See the trailer below!

Peach Plum Pear Trailer from Peach Plum Pear on Vimeo.

Peach Plum Pear is the story of Jesse, a troubled young man from Los Angeles, and his friend Will, who find themselves stranded in small- town Nebraska on their way to Chicago when their car is stolen. The purpose of their trip has a vague connection to Jesse's father, who lives there. During their stay, they work for Hank, a rough and tumble handyman in exchange for his car, who is married to Sharon, the kind bartender who agreed to take them in temporarily. Hank, Sharon, and neighborhood girl Dora, who has strained relationships with the men in her life, teach Jesse surprising lessons about relationships and himself.

New Year!!

2011-01-02T01:46:00.002-06:00

Welcome 2011! Hard to believe its already here, but I suppose spending the last year in an edit bay will do that to you every time.

This is going to be a big year, I know it and I can feel it!! First off this marks 10 year mark of making, creating, editing films... whew... already a decade, and what a decade it's been!

On top of that I am putting on some finishing touches to a trailer I cut for an indie film, see more on that soon! And today was one of my typical "break through" moments... a moment where I try to cut something the way I envision it, but soon discover a more intriguing edit that really sets this piece away from so many other pieces... this is typical on everything I do, wether directing or editing... it made for a very reassuring day. Starting this day off right!

Well I say that and now I see FCP is having a general error with my export. Fantastic... so much for that...

Advice from the Best

2010-12-20T02:36:00.002-06:00

Just read this great article over at Norman Hollyn's blog about filmmaking advice from Danny Boyle and Alejando Gonzalez.

It's stuff like this that makes me want to just spend every waking moment being creative!

You should check out Norman Hollyn's full blog post HERE.

Burnt Out???

2010-12-20T02:22:00.002-06:00

This last week at work (the last 3), have been super busy. Busy is good in this business, but sadly it cuts out any time I get to be creative on my own... paying my dues...

I really just want to warn/call attention to anyone getting into trailers or and entertainment avenue really. Some of this may sound obvious, but its always worth the perspective.

So the lowest hour week I've had the last 3 weeks has been 63 hrs... with a high of 73 (all in five days). And this past week I was honestly close to burning out. And its a very serious issue to have. I felt like the only place I ever was, was at work. And as you work 16 and 17 hr days you really find yourself looking for a way to get home.

In my most recent experience we had an easy day on Monday, out by 9? But the next day I was busy till 2am the following day. Absolute madness. Aside from putting up with my own stress and frustration, I recognized having to stay on top of my job and keeping everything in order. But the effect of a burn out is similar to jet lag. Your so spent that you have no desire to do anything remotely close to that which your burnt out on... Which is the main reason I have not done much of my own creative expeditions this year. I just know if I tried to give it my all I would truly burn out. That and when I wasn't feeling tired I was still working or tied up... thus I couldn't get to do what I wanted to.

Luckily everyone I worked with noticed the crazy schedule we had all been working and since then there has been some relief, which really wiped out a lot of potential burn out. So I have to say I'm fairly refreshed now, though I avoided editing all weekend... till Sunday.

So the point is simple, try to stay active and find distractions from your career... sorry if this sound lame, but its a very serious issue, one I've felt on and off to some capacity all year.

There is also an easy trigger to this frustration when you think about all the stuff your not doing that you want to. I know for me creatively it quite simply blows when I can't focus on my own projects... when you know your not where you want to end up... again I am sure we all go thru this, but heads up... this business requires hours and strength to put up with them at any given moment, its standard.

New Frontiers (not what you think)

2010-12-20T01:59:00.003-06:00

I'm thankful that everyday I am learning something new, I think its the joy of living... its really endless. And usually when you think of a new frontier you think of something newly explored vista of sorts. Either a real land or just a new part of your brain or something to that extent... well in this context I just want to use it as a new learning experience.

So many times I've had success in working on my projects. Simply going from start to finish. And Jonathan, my producer was quite the opposite when he was just a director. Honestly it was quite odd. Well today I sort of joined the club. I know, I join the ranks of Terry Gilliam (we share a Birthday) and many others. Now I am happy to report its not one of my films! But it's a music video.

Usually I wouldn't care, but its the simple fact that I had a relationship with this song and vision. When you spend so much time preparing an idea, carefully crafting and solving problems, its quite a hard stop to just quit the project. Now the story goes back to April of this year when I was introduced to this artist (who will remain unnamed for privacy) and thus various meetings took place. Carefully I whittled down my ideas to the one we would film and we set a shoot date for late Oct. I even scouted the location and prepped all my shots. The date came and we had issues securing our DP for the date, at this point I offered up my own DP skills (not much, but I can do it). The artist balked at this idea stating that we were not prepared. I don't know what the heck they were talking about, my idea was ready to roll. So we postponed till Jan.

The time building up to the new shoot date was meant to prepare and get everything lined up. Well we were all prepared on the Director/Producer end. So the producer is chatting back and forth with the artist trying to nail things down. All the while the artist seems to not read any of our emails or listened to our emails and had done jack shit over the last 6 weeks... they later stated they didn't think we had nailed things down... man I am glad I wasn't on the phone. That was the biggest BS I've heard in a while...

I had a discussion with my Producer about walking away from the project. If the artist can't get their act together then that's not my job to help them out. Literally, we offered to pay for the shoot, as long as we got some reimbursement down the line. And its not like we are breaking the bank either... We even forfeited any potential pay.

About 30 mins later, I get word that its all over. Honestly I was happy since I had wanted to walk... but at the same time I saw this vision of mine fade away. This idea I spent some serious time developing pissed down the drain. And honestly, thats the new frontier for me, that feeling of a dead project. Your attached, its truly like a relationship... these things do happen and you just move on. I also have a harder time comprehending the situation since there was no risk on the artist part, yet it was easier for them to walk away. Live and learn.

So now I am about to fill the gap in my schedule with a few projects, none of which I can really talk about... because I never know if they will ever happen... but we shall see.

Currently I am cutting a trailer for and indie film that is beginning to make its festival run... at least when I can find hours during my 70 hour work weeks...

Pepsi Spec's now on Vimeo

2010-12-14T18:09:00.005-06:00

Aside from trekking into the CRASH THE SUPERBOWL website, you can now watch the two Pepsi Spec we did last month, right here and on Vimeo.

Pepsi Max Spec "Paradise Lost" from BK Garceau, III on Vimeo.

Pepsi Max Spec "SLOWMO" from BK Garceau, III on Vimeo.

Finalist will be announced on Jan 3rd, 2011.

Crash the Superbowl - Pepsi Challenge

2010-11-18T22:33:00.005-06:00

This past weekend I finally snapped back into gear and shot my first piece in sometime! Actually, we shot two pieces for the Crash the Superbowl contest!

Paradise Lost?

Slowmo

Aside from having a ton of fun making these two videos, I was even more relieved by the fact that I had finally directed something again... it was too long, and now I contend not to wait that long again, ever.

Having said that, we were totally guerilla filmmaking here. We began at 10 AM on Saturday and I finished cutting Monday at 3 AM. It was a jam-packed schedule. First off we had a 2 hr shoot window with the lead actor Tyler. So we had to stay within time. Then all of the footage had to be converted to ProRes for editing. Not to mention re conforming the slow motion photography in after effects. Needless to say I took in a football game while my Macs churned data.

So I didn't get back to start "editing" (breaking down) "Paradise Lost?" till around 9 PM. And at that point I wish I had an assistant editor to get rid of all the junk -- though I shot that junk and its always worth sorting thru... I was only able to work on things till just after 1 when I felt like my batteries had died... I figured I'd rest up and work all day Sunday, so I did.

I was able to finish cutting around 9 pm Sunday night and began "color timing" and building my audio bed. All this was finished around 2 AM, leaving me time to cut the 2nd piece, SLOWMO. Literally I cut this in 10 minutes did some audio and that was it.

So at 3 AM I began uploading... what a process. The entire project done in just over a 40 hr period. Having said that, there was a bunch to "Paradise Lost?" that was left on the cutting room floor. Which hopefully will be making it online in the near future...

Needless to say it was a blast and a real rush. I mean, I'm gung-ho to keep directing as much as I can... Perhaps this was the jumpstart I needed?

getting back on the horse

2010-11-04T21:41:00.006-05:00

Well, its been a while since I've done my own production... James Cameron long... not quite Kubrick... anyway, I was about to pull the trigger on a Music video either last weekend or this weekend. My idea was set and we were trying to gather all of the crew and amongst some of the difficulties we decided to postpone... not a week or two, but two months from now in January. Talk about hurry up and wait.

Either way its very interesting as now I am trying to jumpstart another project in just over a week! So I've got the juices flowing, but I've yet to pull the trigger... It's an interesting place to be in. Not one I particularly want, but what its what I'm stuck with. I've tried to supplement it with some shooting with my Canon 60D. It's nice, but the storytelling is different.

This is struggle is also not helped by cutting other peoples stuff. I'm glad I get to cut a variety of projects (looking to lock another one down soon), but there is that self creativity in filmmaking I miss satisfying... Soon.

I just hope when I finally get back on that I'll be able to keep up...

An Affair - Kickstarter

2010-10-28T19:08:00.007-05:00

My former film professor Chris Hansen is raising funding for his latest film, "An Affair" and I wanted to make you aware about this great opportunity.

Synopsis:
Two married strangers, both feeling very vulnerable, meet at a dark motel on a lonely night. Attraction turns into flirtation -- they both know there's a line here, and they have to decide if they're going to cross it.

As you may know, I worked with Hansen on his last film, Endings (currently playing in festivals across the states) , as a grip and an editor. This is his follow up to that film and his vision has broadened and he is now trying to raise funding. As a filmmaker and collaborator I know how hard it is to trying to make short films, not to mention feature films. The requirements and funding needed to get these projects off the ground are enormous and none of us have the ability to get 100% behind it ourselves.

You can learn more in this video below:

So I wanted to simply encourage you to take a look at the "An Affair" Kickstart page to learn a bit more about the film and the funding process. An Affair Kickstart Page.

You can also find more on Hansen's Blog - Making Films in Flyover Country.

Help spread the word! They have a deadline and have to make their goal to be able to receive any of these funds!

Raw Creativity?

2010-10-25T17:37:00.005-05:00

Ever get the feeling that you just want to create something? Anything really?

I know I do. All the time. I just want to spend the day and create something... you know just throw a little video together, guerilla style. Just like I did as a kid when just see a recorded image was more then enough. I wish I could, but I can't. Not that I can't, can't. But I find myself ditching the attempt before I begin. Not because of a specific lack of creativity, but more so in the vein that I can't properly invest myself into the project. Even something simple... without the lights and gear I just sort of get killed. If I can't put that time and effort I wonder the point. Aside from doing test...

But its a side of me I miss. I mean I don't always skip out on these tangents, but I know I don't share them as I once did. They are more private. I don't want the majority of people seeing my raw thought process. I rather refine and refine again. And that an interesting bit in itself. Showing your rawness, the true expression of your art as it begins to walk. What does it really look like? And how do you craft it...

I know I am challenged to show my work more and more, earlier and earlier. So I have to say I am opening up to show my work and getting reactions and thoughts. So I would say that's growth.

I just hope to let this raw side of myself expose itself more to the limelight from time to time. I know some of my favorite projects have been the more run and gun over the over planned ones. Not always, but that sense of being loose, unique and free. I actually expect for it to pick up actually... especially with the 60D in my hands, I mean to not to would almost be a sin. Soon?

I was just wondering if anyone else could share in a similar experience?

Canon 60D

2010-10-24T21:26:00.002-05:00

Last week I got the brand new Canon 60D... I wish I had something to show, but currently I am still trying to find time to play with it. Not to mention getting some decent sunlight here in LA... we had a day or so and I got some great pictures, but no video from a proper shoot.

However, I am currently preparing a new project in the very near future... so maybe there will be some of that video soon... and hopefully some more shoots after that.

I have to say so far, I am seriously impressed with the low light capabilities with this camera (as is all of the Canon DSLRs).

2010 Red Rock Film Festival

2010-10-24T21:21:00.003-05:00

I got word a week ago that 'One Day' was selected to play at the Red Rock Film Festival in November (11th-14th) in Utah. This marks the 15th festival that 'One Day' has been apart of and the 10th state the film has played in.

Sadly with the late notice of the festival I will not be able to make it, but I am happy to have my film be apart of it!

Endurance = Opportunity

2010-10-05T01:00:00.004-05:00

These last few weeks have embodied the majority of my last year. Work. Lots of work.

This continual theme sure does have its wear and tear, but I've continued to find some joy in everything I'm doing. Sure it may not be my own film or project, but there is some aspect I am involved with that I can find satisfaction.

At work we've seen some long weeks recently; I worked back to back 75hr weeks just the other day.

Normally that doesn't seem appealing, especially when your working till 1 AM and you still need to be up early in the morning. You effectively have no personal life, and you don't bother making plans...

But with all of this hard work comes opportunity. And I think opportunity is the epitome of these situations. To be in the right place at the right time.

In those two weeks I got to cut a TV Spot, work on graphics for TVs and even fiber one of my cuts to a client. All during those long overtime hours... the last one was one of my New Years Resolutions and I was happy that I actually was able to accomplish it this year!

It defiantly showed some trust by my supervisors and surely was a test to myself. Specifically my skills and patience to operate under high stress.

It's the moments like these that cancel out the previous 15 hours of the day. You can look back and feel a sense of accomplishment. And its a good feeling.

My continuing words of advice to anyone out there seeking some sort of job in the film business is a warning about having a "normal" life. Those don't come easy and if it is normal job then it's defiantly not a creative part of the business. And for me, it wouldn't be worth it if I couldn't be the least bit creative.

So prepare yourselves if you have your hopes and dreams on the pictures. For with all the bright lights and movies, there are many hours to be spent slaving away on the job. Hopefully the end result will justify your means and ability to continue no matter what... again, this is how they try to separate the weak from the pack.

Put up or shut up...

Robert Etoll Videos

2010-09-12T23:23:00.004-05:00

A couple months back I posted that I cut an Action montage for Film/Trailer Sound Designer Robert Etoll. Well over the summer I actually cut two more montages for him: a Adventure and Epic Montages. His brand new website has just been launched and these two, as well as the previous montage are now featured on his site > Robert Etoll Productions

And they have also been added to YouTube. Check them out below.

Both these videos were a ton of fun to cut -- as well as the previous Action Montage!

A Post a Month

2010-08-26T21:07:00.002-05:00

Well, I am going to try and keep this updated more often. Hopefully soon enough. Though I think I have been saying that for a while now.

What am I doing? Good question. Lately, just relaxing more. I guess every artist needs a break. If your like me, everyday your involved with some form of the film medium, so venturing on your own can feel redundant or tiresome. So the the issue I run into is trying to make my own process not feel stagnant. Though, I've chosen to relax in lieu of work more often.

And I do take on side projects, but I really wouldn't want to bother you with that unless it had some really creative results.

Speaking of which, I keep talking about these two videos I cut and that they are supposed to be online soon. Well, that soon a month ago (right before my last post) is back in soon territory... I know makes no sense. Well, hopefully in the next two weeks! I'd love to share now, but I can't... soon.

Where I Stand...

2010-08-09T01:50:00.004-05:00

its August.

Earlier in the year I wanted to start shooting a short film... hasn't really happened... I haven't even really developed the idea. I haven't had the time.

I'm simply reflecting on how my life has changed from just two years ago... I had my hand in so many projects. It's not that I don't anymore, its just either A) I haven't had the time to nourish and let my ideas flourish, B) I've been busy working full time, or C) I can't talk about it.

I've come to realize, that as an artist, that I like when my work is on display. Normally I cringe when I watch my films with an audience, but isn't that part of the process? What will others think? Did they "get it"? How could I improve that? Even with all these fears, its that feedback, that interaction the work you create has with a viewer that is, honestly, a vital part of the process. Your sharing a moment, a feeling, a story with someone. Its communication, a basic life principal.

So I write this, just purely wanting to create and share... and I think the seeds have been sowed and the harvest will come sooner rather then later. And hopefully it'll be a big and varied harvest. Hopeful I can share some new work soon...

Late Nights

2010-07-24T02:25:00.003-05:00

Well its been a while -- I've been working, what can I say.

Right now I have two projects that will be seeing the light of day soon! Thats what has kept me occupied as of late.

The other is work, actual work. One of the things I learned in my own experience of making films or being involved on a production is the time you put in to something. This time leads to late nights and severe sleep depravation. And what seems to be a rule no matter where your at, is the classic "hurry up and wait"...

Tonight is no exception. I am literally still here, awaiting my next task at the wee hours of the morning. This is fairly typical for an assistant. You get used to it, incorporate it into your life. Heck, you make your plans around the chances of having to work late on certain days and certain weeks. You go with the flow, sacrificing your time and personal plans/projects for the job at hand. And its not too bad. You may want to complain for somehow be the early assistant out that night, but in the end your getting paid and thats not so bad.

But that is what I have been going thru lately. I've been working 50 to 60 hour weeks by day and at night trying to do my personal projects or even just side projects. Its great really... well, you don't have much of a real personal life, but sometimes the opportunities seem to line up and you have to sacrifice (there's that word again) your time and energy for the sake of your (I hope) passion for this biz. It continually backs up my motives for being here in LA, pursuing my dream of being a writer, director, editor... or at least the latter two... you, for the lack of a better string of words, keep on, keeping on.

And at the end of the day I can say, I'm living the dream... or some variation of that dream or maybe the prequel that dream... well the dream exists somewhere out there! Either way, the journey will be worth it, I'm sure!

Update: Got out of the office at 3:30 AM my time... told you, late nights!

The Journey Continues

2010-06-22T19:00:00.004-05:00

My current journey or quest to feature filmmaking has had an interesting last two weeks.

Normally my time is spent trying to cut a Trailer or a TV Spot after hours at work. Perhaps I'm working late into the night on one of my own projects. Or maybe I'm rediscovering the joy of watching a film for the first time.

However that hasn't been the case.

In just the short time span of 8 days I had the pleasure of attending Q&A's with Christopher Nolan, The Duplass Brothers, and Edgar Wright.

(Beat)

Wow. Two of those people are two of my favorite directors working today. And at a time where I have wanted to break free and be creative, this has been a nice welcome.

Each Q&A was relatively the same in structure. Each director spoke of their beginning in film and the approach they take when working on their films. They also had some of their films or clips from their films to refer to throughout their discussion. As someone who discovered the joy of making films when I was 14 this was quite an exciting time. I constantly found myself nodding in agreement to what they had the say. Picking up the video camera (or in some cases 8mm Camera) and just shooting videos with friends. I pretty much do the same thing 10 years later.

This reminder about the early days of making films and the excitement that comes with it was surely on the forefront of my mind. These discussions really served as an oven, heating up my thoughts and ideas leaving me without excuse or drive to even think about slowing down on my goal of become a feature filmmaker. So just like Mario or Scott Pilgrim, I think I just got my 1-Up!

Developments?? Festivals

2010-06-22T13:55:00.008-05:00

One Day's festival run may be coming to a close, but for now we've got two more screenings on the horizon-

New Hope Film Festival - June 21-27th (going on now!) with One Day making its Pennsylvania premiere! So Friday, June 25th - 10 pm, in the "Dark Passages" segment! I'm told the awards program will be aired live over the web, and if it all works out I will post the link on the 27th.

You can see the entire shorts program here.

Long Island International Film Festival - July 8-18th. One Day Screens Sunday July 11th, in the 9:30 block. Awards are the following Sunday on the 18th... this is the first official screening for One Day in New York.

You can see the LIFFE One Day page here.

I must admit I've been caught up with the summer movie releases and haven't had much time to really dive into any of the many projects that I want to. Though there are a few things I'm throwing on the stove... all I can say is.... Soon.

Agitated Action - from Robert Etoll Productions/Q-Factory

2010-05-25T02:29:00.006-05:00

Just cut this for Robert Etoll Productions and Q-Factory Music -

I cut this video for their latest CD release, Agitated Action, which is now available. Etoll and Q-Factory deal with music for Film and TV (music cues and sound design).

You can find out much more at their proper websites.

Robert Etoll Productions

Q-Factory Music

I wish I could talk more about this video, but alas I don't have much time these days! It was a great experience and I look forward to doing similar videos in the future! And if you follow trailer music you should defiantly check out this CD, its loud and in your face... a composer called it "Action on Steroids".... you get the picture.

One Day comes to NEW YORK

2010-05-15T12:40:00.003-05:00

I got word earlier this week that ONE DAY will be making its New York Premiere at the the Long Island International Film Expo happening July 9-18th! One Day will be playing on Sunday, July 11th during the 9:30 pm film block. Hopefully I will have someone represent my film in person.

I will post more news when it becomes available -- but you can check the LIIFE website for now!

One Day @ Blackglasses

2010-04-20T14:07:00.005-05:00

Back by popular demand (I wish, lol) One Day will be playing at this year's Baylor Blackglasses Film Festival.

So if you happen to be in Waco, TX this weekend -- Fri at 7:30 -- One Day will be among the many films playing at the Waco Hippodrome.

I hope people enjoy another chance to catch the film!

Here is a blurb from the Facebook Page --

On April 23, 2010, at 7 p.m.,the Waco Hippodrome (724 Austin Ave.) will host the 11th Annual Black Glasses Film Festival, a student film festival sponsored by Baylor’s Department of Communication Studies.

Tickets are now on sale!!!
http://www.wacoperformingarts.org

$5 adults / $3 students

Read more about Black Glasses in The Baylor Lariat

Also -- the Endings trailer I cut will be playing there too! Cool stuff!

East Carolina FF - Screening April 28th

2010-04-17T11:46:00.002-05:00

One Day will be playing April 28th in North Carolina at the East Carolina University during the 12pm film block.

For an entire list of films playing and more about the festival -- visit the ECFF Website

Hill Country Film Festival

2010-04-17T11:42:00.002-05:00

A reminder, if your going to be in Fredericksberg, TX this coming weekend -- One Day will be playing at the Stage Coach theater on Saturday the 24th at 1pm.

For more on tickets and the festival -- visit the HCFF website

Columbia University National Undergraduate Film Festival

2010-03-29T02:35:00.002-05:00

In the past I've entered the CUNUFF festival and with decent results. In the last two years both Calendar and Violet were recognized as third-tier winners... well as one would guess, I entered One Day. And to my surprise One Day broke into the next left, just out of the 8 finalist as an Honorable Mention. I'm happy to see my film in a more elite group this time around.

Sadly my film won't be playing in NYC, just making a stop in the programs and in an announcement. At the end of the day I just appreciate the recognition and was glad to have my film find a warm reception.

You can find out more about the 2010 CUNUFF festival here.

Hill Country Film Festival - Screening Apr 24th

2010-03-27T12:16:00.002-05:00

The Hill Country FF has announced their screening dates and One Day will be screening at 1PM on Saturday, April 24th. If your interested in traveling to Fredericksburg, TX to support the film, let me know or visit the Hill Country FF site for more info. I would love to have you in attendance, since sadly I can't be there.

Also, One Day is playing after a great film, Funky Pickles! I saw this film at the Dam Short Film Festival this year and it was defiantly one of my highlights. Its quite a funny film and I had the great pleasure of meeting the lead actor. So if you do go you'll be in a great screening block of films.

Official Selection East Carolina Film Festival

2010-03-23T22:04:00.003-05:00

One Day will be apart of this years East Carolina Film Festival happening in North Carolina at the end of April. For the latest details you can visit ECFF website.

Endings Page Live!

2010-03-17T00:51:00.009-05:00

I've spent sometime updating my website and you can now view the Endings trailer on my website, as well as find out some additional info about the film!

Check out the link- Endings Trailer Page

2010 GLUNAFF

2010-03-07T17:01:00.005-06:00

I just got word that 'One Day' has won the Student Golden Lion Narrative Award -- for best Student Narrative Film -- as of Saturday evening. Sadly I wasn't in attendance, but a friend was there to let me know. I am happy to hear this and will keep you posted.

The complete list of winners here.

GLUNAFF Website

Final ENDINGS Trailer

2010-03-02T13:48:00.003-06:00

At last, in all its glory, the Endings trailer.

Endings - the official trailer from Chris Hansen on Vimeo.

Where to start? This trailer was a long time coming. Literally we began talking about tackling it in May 09... I didn't touch it till August or September and even then really didn't break serious ground till October/November when I began cutting in the evenings. At the end of November I was finishing up my first cut and realized I didn't like it. So I threw it out and cut a new trailer from scratch in 3 hours... Most of that remains in the final trailer today. Well, half of it.

In December the back-end needed to be changed... I however didn't have that much time to commit to that. Then finally in February I really kicked the ground again. In a day or two after picking it up again I had a new back-end that I thought was really strong. It communicated what the director wanted in a way I didn't think I could deliver prior to cracking the egg. But once that was cracked it was just tweaking edits and shots, creating titles, and sound design. And after a few weeks of that, you have what is now before you.

I can say in the time it took to edit the trailer I defiantly learned a lot about trailers in general. I work at a trailer house and I can honestly say that its had an effect on me. You realize that your not out there to tell the entire story, but just some of the elements. What to cut is the hardest part. And it was extremely hard as one of the editors on the film -- since you know everything about the film; every shot and every frame.

The other bit of the trailer that was interesting was working with the director, Chris Hansen. As an editor its up to me to craft the trailer and then feed off from the directors feedback. Which is great, but I am halfway across the US in LA; with the director in TX. So literally I would make a cut, export, upload to my server, send over a link, get feedback and repeat. And the get feedback bit usually meant 10 or so emails... a day. In the trailer world, we use fiber lines to communicate with the client. Literally a fiber is like a direct connection from your edit bay to a preview somewhere else. Its instance feedback and instant changes in some cases. So we didn't have that (one you have to have the line connections and two it ridiculously expensive), but it worked out nonetheless.

So I have to say that it was one long journey getting to this point, but in the end, I'm glad to say I made it and that I had a big role in the trailer.

One Day on Facebook

2010-03-01T14:09:00.006-06:00

I finally created a page for One Day on facebook yesterday. You can now view a large chuck of production stills, film stills, press stills, poster mock-ups and the opening of the film.

Check it out and become a fan here.

Hill Country FF Preview

2010-02-27T23:49:00.006-06:00

The Hill Country Film Festival has posted a preview video for this years festival. One Day makes a few appearances in the video, so you should check it out:

I've seen some of the films and met some of the actors in this montage and I can say thats its going to be a pretty good festival! And whats great is HCFF is a festival put on by filmmakers. Just watching this makes me want to consider flying to TX to check it out... I really wish I could.

2010 Hill Country Film Festival

2010-02-25T18:35:00.002-06:00

I received word last night (via messenger w/telegram) that One Day (yes that film I keep blogging about) has been accepted to play at the festival this April in Fredericksburg, TX. As of now there is not a schedule, but when one becomes available I will post it here.

You can find more about the festival here: Hill Country FF

Reminder- One Day also plays tomorrow at the Amelia Island FF at 1PM in Florida.

Upcoming 'One Day' Screenings

2010-02-22T19:37:00.007-06:00

One Day will be playing this Friday, 26th at the Amelia Island Film Festival in Fernandina Beach, Florida @ 1 PM.

You can find further info here : Film Schedule
- - -
The following Friday, March 5th, One Day will be playing at the George Lindsey UNA Film Festival in Florence, Alabama @ 9:45 PM. The film will kick off the Student Block at the Zodiac Theater. And yes I am geeky enough to think that playing in the Zodiac theater is a "cool" thing.

You can find the festival schedule on B-Sides: 2010 GLUNAFF Schedule

And you can find the One Day B-Sides page there as well.

The only other planned screening is this June at the New Hope Film Festival in New Hope, Pennsylvania.

2010 Dam Short Film Festival Round-up!

2010-02-19T18:44:00.008-06:00

Last week I had the great opportunity to travel to Boulder City, Nevada and support One Day in person at the Dam Short Film Festival.

This was my second year to be involved with the festival, since I traveled last year for Violet. With veteran experience from the previous year, I knew it would be a no brainer to be ready to watch films, chat with filmmakers, and exchange business cards. So this year I set out for Nevada before 6am and strode into town not but a few moments before my screening section began.

Immediatly the lights dimmed and following a one short film, One Day played. And two other films later I was called on stage to give a quick Q&A. No off the wall questions; just your normal - how many days to film and how did you find your locations.

I spent the rest of my first day at the festival watching some other film blocks -- like Comedies, which I saw a few of my favorite films from the fest. That was followed by a festival mixer where I was able to meet the filmmakers of some of the films I had just saw. That proved to be a worthwhile experience.

On Saturday I spent my time on a filmmakers panel discussing film and independent cinema and my (our) part as short filmmakers in that group. It was a well rounded group - various filmmakers with different films and from different states and even countries.

All of the festivities culminated with that evenings award ceremony with limo rides to the theater. One Day failed to win in the student category, but the other filmmakers we rode with won Best Documentary, so hats of to them!

Other then that I had a great time at the festival and I hope to be back at the next festival... only time will tell.

New Hope Film Festival

2010-02-19T18:35:00.002-06:00

Last week I received word from the New Hope Film Festival that One Day has been accepted and will play this June in Pennsylvania. This is One Day's 10th festival acceptance; I've never made it to double digits, but here we are. This also marks the 7th different state that One Day will play in.

The festival takes place June 21st - 27th.

Currently the films have not been scheduled, but when they do I will make the screening dates available.

You can visit the New Hope Film Festival website for more info.

Trailer Editing

2010-01-30T21:31:00.002-06:00

I've been doing some trailer work the last few months on various projects. Some I can talk about, some I can't... but either way I am continually struck by the construction of the trailer... the process of making one can be completely different every time you set out.

For me my approach remains the same, but the film truly dictates the direction you should go. And sometimes its your instinct that leads you down that path; for better or worse. I say this since I have begun work on a trailer recently and so far its completely different then the one I did before it. My intial problems on the first one was really just finding what I wanted to say. Specifically with an intro... even now I am not sure I fully encapsulate much for the audience. My take on it eventually became more of making it a brief show of events that would come back fully in the next part of the trailer. In other words, trying to wet ones appetite for more.

This latest trailer however has given me an intro right of the bat and I am more or less trying to figure out the middle. Its quite a journey thats for sure... Now where that will lead me I am not sure. I tend to play with clips and music and search for structure in the two and out of that give birth to what will become my trailer.

By no means am I a full blown trailer editor, and I still desire to cut features, but I feel my art as an editor is growing in ways I didn't know existed. Specifically with "fooling" the audience. In features you do its over larger scenes and make cheats here and there. But with a trailer you are constantly mashing scenes together, creating lines that aren't in the movie and really trying to sell someone on wanting to see the movie. To achieve this viewing requires some fine editing and knowledgeable peers (or Producers) who can help guide the vision to the end zone.

---

So if my blog posts have been fewer -- this would be part of the reason... even on this Saturday I am cutting away.

And I am really focused on One Day in its festival circuit run!

Next screening is at the Dam Short Film Festival in Boulder City, NV! Feb 11 -13! 2010 DSFF

One Day screens on Friday Feb 12th at 10:30AM! And on Saturday 13th at 12pm I will be part of a filmmaker's panel discussing filmmaking and our films. I am very excited about that!

Busy times ahead, let me know if you can make any of the upcoming screenings!

2010 SCVFF Wrap Up

2010-01-25T19:09:00.003-06:00

Well, this is long over due - but two weeks ago I attended the Santa Clarita Valley Film Festival for a screening of One Day. After the screening my producer and I gave a ten or so minute Q&A about the film. I have to apologize for these... every time I stand up to give one of these I feel like I just vomit from the mouth... anyway, I round that off by saying that there was a great audience from the film - an older one, which is great because of its diverse perspective.

I was only able to attend the last day of the festival, but I still saw a good slew of films and meet some cool filmmakers... I am awaiting some pictures from the festival to upload!

The next screening for One Day is Friday, February 12th, 11 AM at the Dam Short Film Festival in Boulder City, NV. I will be in attendance for the weekend!

Dear to the One featured on http://carsondaly.tv/

2010-01-13T22:13:00.003-06:00

Got a message from Clairmont notifying me that "Dear to the One" is being feature on Carson Daly's site!! Got to say I am pretty pumped that this video keeps chugging along! Lets keep it up!

You can see various posts on the site below:

Dear to the One video player

Original Post

2010 Dam Short FF

2010-01-04T00:43:00.004-06:00

The new year began immediately with another official selection for One Day! The Dam Short Film Festival takes place in Boulder City, NV, just south of Vegas. If you remember, Violet was also invited to play last year and I was actually able to attend. Currently I am planning to travel to the festival in support my film.

One Day is scheduled to play in the Criminal Inclinations section at 10:30 AM on Friday, February 12th.

For more on the festival, please visit DSFF.

2010 Amelia Island FF

2009-12-22T16:51:00.007-06:00

Right on the heels of all the festival announcements, I received yet another acceptance for One Day! This time from the Amelia Island Film Festival in Florida! The festival is taking place Feb 25th- March 1st, 2010 in Downtown Fernandina Beach! As of this posting, there is not an official schedule of films.

I've done the festival submissions before, but this has been absurd! In the last 4 weeks, I've received 4 selections!! And not just in one state, but from 4 different states! I have to say, that all the hard work, both on the production end and the researching of festivals on the other end has really paid off. I feel that last year was a true learning experience with Violet. I entered the film into about 40 festivals and was apart of 5 or so?? Maybe 6... But already One Day has surpassed that and currently is just under 50/50 in festival acceptance. Which is not bad! I think the big reason I am having more success is because of the research and submissions from Violet. I learned what festivals liked my work, but more importantly identified where my current film fits at the festival level. From the size to the audience and even a festival's theme. I truly think that the knowledge I've gained alone over this time is the real factor to the recent success!

Now I couldn't have done all of this without an amazing team and crew. But thats stating the obvious! I will continue to keep posting the latest news from the festivals!

2009 Maverick Movie Awards

2009-12-22T14:20:00.004-06:00

I received word two weeks ago that One Day had been nominated for a Best Editing award at the 2009 Maverick Movie Awards. The MMA goal is to help talented moviemakers achieve the recognition they deserve by awarding independent/underground movies that have a sense of style, a foundation in craft, and the power to communicate.

The official list of winners have been released, and while One Day did not win Best Editing, the nomination was still a pleasant surprise. Considering my film lost to a Brazilian film and was amongst a group of films from various other nations, I really can't complain! So to think that a group of judges found the editing in my film worth noting as a strength just gets me excited! Its a nice reassurance to the dedication I enjoy putting in each of my films.

You can see the entire list here: 2009 Winners and Nominees

2010 George Lindsay UNA Film Festival

2009-12-14T21:08:00.004-06:00

I got a phone call today from the UNA letting me know that One Day has been accepted to play at their festival in March! And so, just like that One Day already has two screenings lined up!

So far this is the 6th official acceptance (and there may be another soon...) for the film as well as the 5th state for the film to play in. I have to say that I am quite excited thus far and hope for many other opportunites to screen this film for an audience!

As of now I do not have official dates outside of the festival's dates of March 4th-7th. When I do know more I will post information here!

You can find out more at festival's website - George Lindsey UNA Film Festival

Santa Clarita Screening

2009-12-13T20:50:00.002-06:00

The Santa Clarita Valley Film Festival has announced their line-up and schedule for their 2010 festival! This means 'One Day' will officially be playing in the 2:30 pm Shorts Segment on Sunday January 10th, 2010!

You can see the entire line up here - 2010 SCVFF Schedule

Of course I will be there for my film and invite anyone willing and able to come to tag along.

The first 2010 Festival Acceptance!!

2009-12-05T21:15:00.003-06:00

The new year came early when today I received word that ONE DAY has been accepted to screen at the 2010 Santa Clarita Valley Film Festival January 7th-10th! This is big for me, since its my first California screening! And its close enough for me to travel out and be a part of it!
As of now there is not much information, but when their is I will post the details.

Find out more about the Santa Clarita Valley Film Festival.

The Latest Screenings

2009-11-16T00:32:00.002-06:00

Well, sounds like the two screenings for "One Day" and "Dear to the One" went fairly well!

At Red Wasp my DP, Taylor Rudd, was able to give a Q&A after "One Day" played. And Clairmont made it out to do the Q&A for "Dear to the One". Man I wish I could of been there!

And I wasn't sure how things in Nevada turned out, until Monday. I got an email from a filmmaker from Oregon who saw "Dear to the One" and had great things to say. So that alone, while I would of loved to have been there, was quite awesome. It's good to hear that, yes your film played and there were a few souls there!

So thank you all who attended and supported these two pieces of work! I wish I had some photos... anyone?

2009 Red Wasp Film Festival Screenings

2009-11-03T02:22:00.003-06:00

This week is going to be a big week -- both One Day and Dear to the One will be playing at two venues in separate states! As mention below, you can read more about the Desert High Shorts IFF...

I know have the schedule info for Red Wasp, if your around Bryan, TX...

Friday Nov 6 - 7:30 - Screenings Begin.

One Day will be played third in the festival (around 7:50 PM), followed immediately by Dear to the One.

It should be a fun festival, and sadly yet again, I won't be able to make this festival! I was there last year and Violet took home the 'One to Watch' award!

For more info on the festival, you can visit the Red Wasp Schedule.

I do hope to get some pics from the festival!!

2009 Desert High Shorts Screenings

2009-10-28T17:32:00.004-05:00

The official schedule for the 2009 Desert High Shorts IFF have been posted.

Dear to the One will be playing Thursday November 5th, at 6pm in the middle of the Music video category. And is up against a couple of music vids from Israel and Canada.

Just a few hours later, One Day will kick off the Dramatic section of films at 9:30pm.

You can find the complete schedule online, here.

Sadly I have no plans to attend.

2 Festivals // 4 Screenings

2009-10-14T22:48:00.003-05:00

Just got word over the weekend that both One Day and Dear to the One will be playing Nov 6th at the 2009 Red Wasp Film Festival in Bryan, Tx. Violet played at this festival last year and won the 'One to Watch' Award.

Then today I found out that both pieces will also be playing at the 2009 High Deserts Short Intl. Film Festival in Nevada on the same weekend!

I will soon post more specifics when I receive them.

Everyday Driver

2009-10-09T18:13:00.005-05:00

I don't watch much TV. There are few shows that I will sit down and watch. However, there is one that is only available on the web (at least for now). But every time there is a new episode, I sit down and I watch. This is Everyday Driver - a TV show that reviews cars that you and I can afford. Each car is test driven and given an in-depth review between the two host, Todd and Paul. The show films right here in LA's beautiful backyard.

In the latest episode, the crew tackles the Nissan Z cars from the last twenty years... this means the 300zx, 350z and the new 370z.

If you haven't seen it check it below::

Z Car Review -370z, 350z, 300zx - Everyday Driver from Everyday Driver on Vimeo.

First off, I am a big fan of Todd and his show. He is a personal friend and has been a big help in getting me both acquainted with the city and helping me buy a new car. And the show is just a fun take on a fun subject. Sure you have other shows with car reviews, but there is a separation that keeps you on the outside looking in. Whereas Everyday Driver invites you into the cab for the ride. Its a fun show, with beautiful cars, beautiful sites and just an abundance of insight!

So if you liked this, I recommend you check out the Everyday Driver Website.

Dear to the One at GIAA Festival

2009-09-25T00:26:00.002-05:00

As I had previously mentioned, Dear to the One, is playing at the GIAA Festival in Manhattan on Friday Oct. 2nd. I know have further details for anyone interested.

The video itself is playing 7th in the music video block, which takes place on Friday Oct 2nd, starting at 7pm and running to 10pm.

"7. Dear to the One, Bernard Garceau, 5 min (CA)"

The festival itself is taking place at the Anthology Film Archives, 32 Second Ave at 2nd St. in Manhattan - 2 blocks north of the Lower East Side/Secnd Ave stop on the F and V trains.

Tickets run $10 a pop and you can get them online or at the door. If you do get the chance to go, let me know what you think! Sadly I can't go, but I am there behind the camera in the video... sort of... hmm.

For further info on the entire weekend of films, you can visit the official website of the GIAA Festival.

Welcome to the Workforce

2009-09-12T14:19:00.002-05:00

Well, its official, I am finally a real member of the workforce. I have landed the forty hour a week job and now support myself! Wow.

I hadn't really shared anything here with much of anyone since I had no idea where I was going and where I was going to end up. But thats part of the journey, which is one of my fav aspects about the biz/Hollywood. For the most part everyone has a different story on how they got in and not that I am in, but well I support myself and live in LA. And as far as my journey goes, this is one step closer to where I would like to go.

So as part of the journey, here is the latest entry --

I graduated in May and begin looking for work. I get a call to do some freelance work at Trailer Park - where I interned. Did that for a month, but also picked up a church camp to pay my rent. So I took a trip to Florida while I began looking for work. At the same time I was awaiting word from Disney. If I hadn't mentioned I had met an editor of a TV show and was trying to get on the show. However I found out in July that they hired someone internally at Disney for the position. I again set out looking for work. A friend got me an interview at a shop in town so I went in to interview. It went well, but again they went internally. I spent a chunk of time in July beefing up my resume, my reel and my website. I wanted to sell myself as a brand. Or at least make it look that I know what I am doing. Anything to set me away from the pack. With no job in mid July I took a 2nd camp and went back to Florida. Big thanks to both churches, I don't know how I would have done it otherwise. And also mixed into this was a few minor freelance gigs, mostly graphics work. Oh, and a wedding. Pays to be versatile!

After returning to LA at the end of July, I began compiling a list of places in town -- trailer houses primarily -- and got a list of 40 together. I called every single one of them and asked where I could send my Demo Reel/Resume. I got both physical address and emails. Most places were not hiring. Actually I don't even know if there was one place I sent to that was hiring. I think the split was 10 hard copies (demo reel DVD/resume) and 30 soft copies. See, the website paid off with me just sending a link. I sent everything out at the beginning of August.

Within 4 days of sending off the hard copies I get a call from a place in town. They ask me to come in and work as a freelance Runner/PA. That one day spurred into the next 4 weeks. After sometime I wondered what what was going to come of everything and where was I going to end up? Then I got a call this week to do an interview at another shop in town, so I took it . For the record the two places I got contacts from where places I sent hard copies to, FYI. On Thursday I took a half day from where I was freelancing and went into this new place. Like any post house, its got a cool and laid back interior. Moments after arriving I begin interviewing and had to say I wasn't feeling it. Back at the place I was freelancing I ran into the president and he asked me into a brief meeting. We chatted about things and my work over the last few weeks and before long he offered me a full time position. That really turned the day around, which had previously been a hurricane of confusion.

I have to say it was one of the hardest things to do, just to get a job. And a job that is just a Production Assistant/ Runner job. But because I had to work so hard to get it, its worth that much more to me. And at the end of the day I am quite excited to have landed the position and I hope it will move me along the way that is my journey.

Will say this everyone, if you didn't know already, in Hollywood, its who you know before what you know. Just make sure you can back up your promises!

Also I have been reading a book -- Hollywood Assistants Handbook. Its a basic intro to being an assistant in Hollywood. Now its more or less for people working for someone behind a desk. But I think it offers great insight to what Hollywood is really like. Its a nice reminder that its not all glitz and glamour. Especially when you first start out here. So anyone fresh out of school or almost out and wanting to come out to this place should defiantly read it. Its great stuff!

Oh, here is think for a downer -- in mid August I parked my car in a no parking after such an hour place. And while I was awaiting a package, they towed my car! Ouch. I hear its a regular occurrence, so watch out. And I can laugh about it now -- I do have a job...

B Collision

2009-09-08T23:52:00.002-05:00

'B Collision' - Collide 09 from BK Garceau, III on Vimeo.

A B-Side to last weeks Beautiful Collision. This video is a recap of the week if you will, mixing some of the best moments using a similar song.

It really didn't hit me to use this song until after camp -- though if I had time I really wanted to combine this version of the song with the normal version. I think it could of been a really cool experiment.

What was a lot of fun was messing around with just the color palette and the various grain FX. There is something subtle yet absolutely wonderful about this version. From the music to the speed of shots... I don't know what it is, but I really just enjoy this version. There is also some neat colors that appear at the end. If you look close enough the yellows and greens begin to pop ever so slightly... I think that was the plan for the majority of the video, keep it subtle.

Well that's the camp videos -- aside from some more late nights, but those really don't compare. Not sure what will make it online next. I guess only time will tell!!