Christian Movie Connect

Christian Movie Connect Episode 73 – Gary Zelasko

cheryl@christianmovieconnect.com (Cheryl Ariaz Wicker) — Fri, 24 May 2013 15:52:22 +0000

Gary Zelasko is the Director of Marketing for Harvest Ministries, one of the largest and most influential outreach ministries in the U.S. With nearly 30 years of media experience, Gary has served in a variety of capacities including CEO of Luminescence Catalog, a skin care catalog company that he built to become a multimillion dollar entity. He has also held numerous executive positions with major networks and media organizations such as CBS, Cox and Hearst Broadcasting. In 2010, Gary managed the distribution of the Greg Laurie documentary, “Lost Boy: The Next Chapter”. His latest project with Harvest Ministries and Lifeway Films, “Hope for Hurting Hearts”, is due for national release through church organizations in the summer of 2013.

In this interview, Zelasko talks with CMC host, Cheryl Ariaz Wicker, about how documentary film is used to bring hope and faith in Christ.

“Hope for Hurting Hearts” tells the stories of how Greg Laurie, Jeremy Camp, Nick Vujicic and their families dealt with times of extreme suffering. Through this life-changing documentary, these stories are shared to draw others to the truth of comfort, hope and trust in Christ.

To view the trailer, click here. To know more about the movie visit http://www.hope.harvest.org.

Christian Movie Connect Episode 72 – Wes and Amanda Llewellyn

cheryl@christianmovieconnect.com (Cheryl Ariaz Wicker) — Thu, 16 May 2013 15:05:44 +0000

Film Producers, Wes and Amanda Llewellyn are the founders of 4LFilms, a production company with the vision of bringing cutting-edge technology to film and television. Wes has been a filmmaker for more than 25 years, with 100’s of productions to his credit. He has also received numerous awards for his documentary shorts, TV and music videos. As a director, cinematographer, writer and producer, Wes, has produced and directed six seasons and over 100 episodes of the syndicated television show, “Sid Roth’s, It’s Supernatural” along with Amanda. Wes and Amanda’s feature films, “The Moment After”, and “The Moment After 2” have received critical acclaim and are currently in distribution with Sony Home Video.

In this interview, the Llewellyns talk with CMC host, Cheryl Ariaz Wicker, about how

film is used to depict the reality of adversity and the experience of persecution for faith in Christ.

Wes and Amanda’s current project, “Sid Roth’s, It’s Supernatural”, is a weekly television program that investigates and reports on people who have experienced extraordinary healings, miracles and personal encounters with God. For more information on the show, visit http://www.sidroth.org/site/PageServer?pagename=tv_itssupernatural.

Christian Movie Connect Expands Reach with Syndication

cheryl@christianmovieconnect.com (Cheryl Ariaz Wicker) — Sat, 11 May 2013 13:51:58 +0000

Since 2011, Cheryl Ariaz Wicker of Christian Movie Connect (CMC) has been interviewing Christian film personalities and keeping film lovers informed about the latest faith-based, family-friendly and redemptive films, gaining a foothold as the industry’s premier interview podcast. Now, with several syndication deals finalized at the 2013 National Religious Broadcasters (NRB) Convention in Nashville, CMC will be thrust into a much expanded audience through syndication with Parables.TV, ChristianCinema.com and ChristianPress.com.

The 24-hour Parables TV Christian movies network has been keeping an eye for some time on Wicker’s Christian MovieConnect. “We’ve been looking for short segments like this for filler content,” said Isaac Hernandez, Parable TV’s General Manager. “I expect our audience to find CMC’s segment informative and entertaining.”

To read the rest of the article, click here.

Christian Movie Connect Episode 71 – Nicole Abisinio

cheryl@christianmovieconnect.com (Cheryl Ariaz Wicker) — Thu, 09 May 2013 15:34:19 +0000

Actress and producer, Nicole Abisinio, is the founder of Gabriel’s Messenger Films, a production company dedicated to making inspiring true stories for worldwide distribution. Nicole started her career in investment management while simultaneously working as an actress. Her producing career was born out of the merging of both fields. Eventually, Nicole worked in film funding as an Executive Producer for agencies and producers with packaged projects, bringing multi-million dollar deals to the table for films with actors including Terence Howard, Jack Black and Samuel L Jackson. Nicole’s producing, writing and acting projects include the films “Kid’s Café”, “Prime of Your Life”, “Gutter King”, “Broken Flowers” with Bill Murray and “Law and Order: Special Victims Unit”. Her latest film, “The Investigator” is due for theatrical release in the fall of 2013.

In this interview, Abisinio talks with CMC host, Cheryl Ariaz Wicker, about the experience of spiritual dynamics during the making of a faith-based film.

“The Investigator” is the true story of a man, who becomes so wrought with grief from personal and professional tragedy, that he gives up his faith in God. Forced into retirement from his job as a veteran police detective, he finds himself taking a job as a high school criminal justice teacher and baseball coach, leading to the most important investigation of his life…the life and death of Jesus Christ.

To view the trailer, click here. To know more about the movie visit www.theinvestigatormovie.com.

Inspiration Pop 2929 Red Carpet Premiere at TBN

cheryl@christianmovieconnect.com (Cheryl Ariaz Wicker) — Wed, 08 May 2013 16:59:01 +0000

Producer Rochelle Simmons and CMC’s Cheryl Ariaz Wicker

It was a beautiful day in Hendersonville, Tennessee for the red carpet premiere of “Inspiration Pop 2929″ held at the TBN Studios, known as Trinity Music City. This faith-based film is filled with country and gospel music performers, seasoned actors and newbie actors as well. The production team was present, including writer, director and producer Ryan Ramos, producer, Rochell Simmons. Tim Enochs, author or “The Street Sweeper,” the book that inspired the movie, was also in attendance.

I arrived at 3:30 for “marching orders” and then left for dinner, arriving back at 5:00 for backstage interviews. My role was as the official reporter for the production company’s behind the scenes, as well as for TBN who will be featuring the movie on PTL in August, and for Christian Movie Connect.

Red Carpet preparation (photo credit: Miranda Waite)

My crew consisted of my own sister, Leah Ariaz Waite who was my personal assistant and my 15-year old niece, Miranda Waite, who was my social media photographer. Tim Romero of TBN was the videographer. We had a great time. I was so impressed with Leah and Miranda’s work; I am ready to take them on the road with me!

Movie fans wait in line (photo credit: Miranda Waite)

There was a tremendous turnout for the movie. A crowd of anxious attendees lined up in advance in order to get a good seat to see the movie. The auditorium was packed so I’m sure the producers were happy about that.

The movie has such a huge cast, so there were lots of interviews to do…but what fun it was! We visited backstage and in the green room with some of the cast before moving to the red carpet. The red carpet was lined with videographers, photographers and reporters from all over the region. CMC was stationed next to Homecoming Magazine.

Kaitlyn King backstage with Cheryl Wicker (photo credit: Miranda Waite)

Our red carpet interviews started with Jason Crabb, followed by Larry Gatlin. It ended 45 minutes later with the Mandrell sisters–Barbara, Louise and Irlene. The Mandrells were there to support Barbara’s daughter-in-law, Christy Sutherland, an award-winning Christian singer-songwriter who has appeared on the 700 Club and Hour of Power as well as taped her first Gaither & Friends video. This was her film debut.

Christy Sutherland interviewed in green room (photo credit: Miranda Waite)

Some of the more highly credited actors include: Jackie Stewart, who has appeared in 25 motion pictures and TV shows; Whitney Goin who may be recognized by Christian film fans from her role in “Letters to God” and “Renee;” Britt George who has appeared in numerous feature films and TV shows, including “From the Shadows,” which he also produced and faith-based film; “Faith Happens;” Joshua Childs, who is also a writer, producer and director of “The Nothing” and appeared in “Blue Like Jazz” and “Hannah Montana: The Movie;” and Regina McCrary, who has performed on stage with Tyler Perry.

It was a delightful movie set in a small country town that shows the lives of several characters in difficult times whom each has learned invaluable lessons through the 7 Revelations shared by a street sweeper.

Jason Crabb on the red carpet (photo credit: Miranda Waite)

When the movie was over I caught reaction interviews from the attendees. The concensus is, folks, that everyone loved the movie! I had already seen a preliminary screener of the movie myself before attending the premiere…which I enjoyed; but the finished film on the big screen was far more powerful.

Cheryl Wicker interviewing Larry Gatlin (photo credit: Miranda Waite)

It was a long but exciting night. All I can say is that I’m just glad I had my sister around because after 2 hours in 4 inch platforms, we had to resort to the ole “sister shoe switch.” (Sorry I had to pawn the agonizing silver foot killers on her but that’s what sisters are for, right?)

The film will be shown in select theaters and on DVD. For more information on Inspiration Pop 2929, go to the website: inspirationpop2929movie.com.

To find out how to arrange for Christian Movie Connect to attend your movie premiere or to schedule a set visit, please contact us for more information!

Barbara, Louise and Irlene Mandrell (photo credit: Miranda Waite)

Christian Movie Connect Episode 70 – Brian Wells

cheryl@christianmovieconnect.com (Cheryl Ariaz Wicker) — Wed, 01 May 2013 17:00:20 +0000

Brian Wells is the Director of Creative Development for Flyover Studios, a production company dedicated to creating great family, prime-time television entertainment. Prior to his assignment with Flyover, Brian worked with Brand Management at Procter & Gamble. He also helped start Crossroads Church in Cincinnati, Ohio which has now grown to over 15,000 weekly attendees. While at Crossroads, Brian created and led their mission to combat child trafficking and exploitation in South Asia and the U.S. As a film producer, Brian has led the development of a variety of film projects such as “Secrets of the Mountain”, “A Walk in My Shoes”, and his newest film, “Return to Nim’s Island” produced for Walden Family Theater on the Hallmark Channel.

In this interview, Wells talks with CMC host, Cheryl Ariaz Wicker, about his new film, “Return to Nim’s Island” and his role in the development of Walden Family Theater, a new project focusing on quality, family entertainment exclusively featured on the Hallmark Channel.

Walden Family Theater is a new Friday-night, family entertainment lineup created in partnership by Walmart, Procter & Gamble, Walden Media and ARC Entertainment. It represents a shared commitment to provide television audiences with premium content suitable for all ages. Walden Family Theater debuts on the Hallmark Channel in March 2013 with the premiere of “Return to Nim’s Island”, the sequel to the successful 2008 feature, “Nim’s Island”.

To view the trailer of “Return to Nim’s Island” for Walden Family Theater, click here. To know more about Walden Family Theater, visit http://www.walden.com/introducing-walden-family-theater/.

2013 CWIMA National Conference Day 3

cheryl@christianmovieconnect.com (Cheryl Ariaz Wicker) — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 14:49:35 +0000

We’re on the final stretch now…Day 3 of the 2013 CWIMA. Most of us are a little tired and sleep deprived but the excitement of the event and lots of coffee is enough to keep me going anyway!

This morning’s session was a jam packed session with speakers and music. Author speaker Jennifer Kennedy Dean, executive producer of The Praying Network, was the first speaker talking about the impact of prayer in our lives. She told the women that Jesus will give them the desires of their heart as they let him transform their heart.

Singer-songwriter Rachelle Fletcher lead in worship. Also special music by Carole Brewer brought the house down with “For Such a Time as This.” Carole also serves on the CWIMA Advisory Board and is the National Director of the Local Networks.

Karen Covell was the morning keynote. She is the founding director of the Hollywood Prayer Network which prays for Christians who work in Hollywood. She said she started the network out of total desperation when she moved to Hollywood because she and her husband needed prayer. She said God put the same idea in the hearts of other people in the city as well. She now knows of 7,000 Christians and 15 active ministries in Hollywood. She said the culture is constantly being influenced by the media. It is the most powerful force out there…the most exciting mission field in the world. She said for each of us, as we walk outside our front door, we are entering our mission field. She passionately urged the audience, “Don’t miss any opportunity for God to use you.” The Hollywood Prayer Network has 2500 matched partnerships of people praying one on one for people in the industry.

In Coffee Talk, Thelma Wells asks Danna Demetre what has impacted her life. Danna talked about how she was impacted by the worlds message about identity and image which resulted in bulimia and panic attacks. That fear and insecurity lead her to Jesus Christ. During that time, she called the only woman she knew that was a believer…it was this woman who led her to Christ. This was the beginning of her transformation.

Ellie Kay, America’s Family Financial Expert who has appeared on 800 radio an TV shows, including CNN, Fox News ABC News, etc. She was the moderator of the Leading Experts Media Panel which consisted of: bestselling author and international speaker Deborah Pegues; author Lois Evans, wife of Dr. Tony Evans and Senior Vice President of The Urban Alternative; leading Biblical counselor and host of Hope for the Heart and Hope in the Night, June Hunt.

Lois Evans was asked social media changed the ministry of The Urban Alternative. She replied that God has provided increased opportunities through technology. When Facebook and Twitter came along, she had to adjust. She took her time learning but since the goal is to touch the world, she had a young group of experts who helped with the new technology. They are now using every stream they can find so the Word can go far and wide.

Deborah Pegues shared a story in response to the question “What is the funniest thing that has happened to you.” Deborah said she dropped her mic pack in the commode on a break before a TV interview!

June Hunt was asked what was the best piece of advice she wished someone had given her when she started in her media ministry. She replied that she never desired to be the head of anything. In the early days of her ministry, she would end up giving into people more powerful than her because of her feelings of powerlessness. She wished she had been encouraged to take the authority God put in her life to assume the role she had been given by God.

There were several outstanding workshops during the afternoon: Persistence and Tenacity: Successful PR in the Age of Digital and Social Media presented by Suzanne Niles and Kim Chaffin; Sound Bytes: Penetrating Words for a Powerful Impact, presented by June Hunt, Danna Demetre and Ellie Kay; Earn a Strong Income as a Spokeswoman presented by Ellie Kay; LAUNCH! Move your Film/TV Idea from Concept to Production, presented by Naima Lett and Lar Park Lincoln

During free time, women had time for networking, shopping or napping, etc. Although napping sounded nice to me, the adventurous spirit

in me insisted on going shopping. I was joined by Rosie Koebele and Carole Brewer for an outing to Sam Moon. This store takes “bling” to the max. I couldn’t pass up some super cute hats! We hurried back to glam up for the Gala Awards Dinner.

It was a wonderful evening. Everyone looked exceptional and the program was great.

The Exceptional Service Award was presented to one member of each of the 5 regions. Kristi Lynn Olsen from Midwest Region - Minneapolis; actress x from Northeast Region – New York; Sheryl Griffin from Southeast Region – Nashville; Diane Gardner from West Coast - Hollywood; and Sharon Hill from Southwest Region – Dallas.

Kirby Anderson announced the Lifetime Achievement Award which was presented to Patricia Mauceri. After a 14 year soap career and 40 year acting career, she was faced with a moral choice that ended her role on a soap opera. She stated that God promised that her latter would be greater than the former. Patricia said, “God has gifted me and He is my greatest achievement.”

The Excellence in Communications Award was presented by Suellen Roberts to Carol Cymbala who directs the 280-voice Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir and has won 5 Dove Awards and 6 Grammy Awards. Carol said life is a journey. She told the story of her teenage daughter who went astray and how their church, which has always been a praying church, had a special prayer meeting which resulted in their daughter coming back to Christ. She urged the audience not to give up on people they know who need Jesus. As to her accomplishments, she said she owes it all to Him.

Following the meeting there were lots of photos and last good byes. This was a great conference. Looking forward to next year as well as the regional connections on June 13.

2013 CWIMA National Conference Day 2

cheryl@christianmovieconnect.com (Cheryl Ariaz Wicker) — Sat, 27 Apr 2013 13:51:45 +0000

Today was the first full day of the CWIMA National Conference, which began with 7:45 Morning Prayer, followed by the Opening General Session with music by Carole Brewer and worship led by Rachel Mann. Danna Demetre and Thelma Wells had an informal chat called “Table Talk.” When Thelma was asked by Danna about the greatest influence in her life, she told of her great grandmother who was the Godly influence in her life during the years she endured abuse at home. Ruth Graham, daughter of Billy Graham, brought a message of encouragement based on Psalm 143.

This was followed by a panel of the five regional connection directors sharing news and stories from their region. And before you knew it, we were at lunchtime. I was admittedly a little surprised to discover that the main entrée that looked a whole lot like salmon, really WAS salmon and not chicken. it was a scrumptious meal.

So now feeling “fat and happy,” I was able to get ready for my “Putting the Power of Social Media and Branding to Work for Your Brand” workshop. We had a room full of ladies eager to learn about social media. I got so excited about presenting my material, I lost track of time and almost cut into my co-presenter’s lecture. Carol Doyel of LivingBetterat50.com did a great job of sharing how they build a powerful fan base for her online publication. Special thanks to Ryan Bunting for videotaping the workshop.

There were other media seminars in the afternoon as well: author Debra Pegues on “Fighting the Fears that Foil Your Future.” Also an Expert Evaluation Seminar featuring Linda Olson, Karol Ladd, Wendy Pett, and Tracey Mitchell offered attendees a chance to practice their pitch for critique by the panel.

And no self-respecting gathering of women would be complete without a shopping expedition, which is exactly what took place following the workshops…a trip to Sam Moon. Although I was not able to make the trip, the word is many shopping bags made their way onto return shuttle. I had an outside meeting with a couple of film friends who were in town during the free time.

The evening event was a western bling shindig so everyone was decked out in their shinest western attire in true Texan form. We all thoroughly enjoyed the Mexican buffet as we were treated to the beautiful voices of Erica Lane and Rachel Mann. They sang a patriotic song they co-wrote. Erica ended the evening with an accapella version of ”The Lord’s Prayer.”

Keynote speaker Pat Smith shared her story as first runner up in Miss America, wife of a Dallas Cowboy, Emmett Smith (“Dancing with the Stars”). She dealt with insecurity over her husband’s career and disappointment over her own. During this time, God led her to start a women’s conference, Treasure You Girlfriends Christian Retreat. She then got an invitation to join Women of Faith as a speaker. After hearing a sermon urging her not to give up on her dreams, she finally got a chance to host a “The View” type TV show entitled ”The Broadcast.” She encouraged the women to “Be a light. Use your platform for good.”

So thus ends Day 2 at the CWIMA National Conference. Look for more news tomorrow and photos from the Gala Awards dinner.

2013 CWIMA National Conference Day 1

cheryl@christianmovieconnect.com (Cheryl Ariaz Wicker) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 15:28:08 +0000

The 2013 CWIMA National Conference is now underway with a new home back at the national headquarters in Dallas. This seems to be a good move for the organization since registration has doubled over last year’s conference.

I arrive on Wednesday evening with a West Monroe friend, Sherry Peveto who quickly jumped in with both feet by volunteering to stuff goodie bags as I set up my booth for Christian Movie Connect and Premier1 Studios. Since I spent all my time planning for my social media workshop, I really didn’t put much thought into the booth, but it turned out pretty nice anyway.

The event did not officially start until 7 p.m. so after the 3 p.m. registration, the ladies were on their own for dinner or shopping, etc. Considering that our hotel is right next to the Galleria, which provided lots of option. I was joined by Rosie Koebele and Carol Doyel for dinner at the Grande Lux Café. Carol will be my co-presenter tomorrow but this was our first time to meet. What a cute and fun lady. We had a royal stuffing, dessert and all.

I sort of regretted I had such a hearty dinner because we were greeted with more food temptations at the Opening Night Connection and Reception! I must say this hotel has wonderful chocolate chip cookies! We started with a social time in small groups sharing our most adventurous moments. What fun stories we heard. These professional women have quite a spirit of adventure!

Our entertainment for the evening was Florence LaRue, who was an original member of the 5th Dimension. Wow, what a beautiful, dynamic lady. I think she’s been drinking from the fountain of youth because she looks fabulous!

The keynote speaker was one of my favorites, Sheila Walsh. Many know her from Women of Faith, a singer, speaker and former host of the 700 Club. One of her best qualities is her ability to be totally open and transparent. She shared her struggle with depression and how God brought her through as she encouraged women to be authentic and not be afraid to share what God has done in their lives. Sheila is always such an inspiration.

After the event, the ladies took their time leaving, making good use of the networking time and hanging out in the hospitality lounge with more…yes, FOOD! I passed on the food and made a quick trip to Walmart. On the way, I met someone new and totally hilarious, author, editor and speaker, Raschelle Laudenslager. She told us some of the craziest stories of stuff she’s done, like picking up the intercom phone in Walmart and announcing over that she was a customer needing assistance in Housewares! She said it was amazing how quick a response she got! She also told about running into the Today Show’s Matt Lauer and deciding to greet him with “Matt! Well, fancy meeting you here!” She never let on that they weren’t pals from the past and he never let on that he didn’t know her. What a character!

Tomorrow in the morning session, Ruth Graham will speak. That should be good. There will be two media seminars in the afternoon…one of which includes my own, “Putting the Power of Social Media and Blogging to Work for Your Brand” which I will co-present with Carol Doyel of LivingBetterat50.com. So if you want to get the scoop on how to use social media to its full advantage in your ministry or business, make sure to attend at 1:30 tomorrow.

Check back for more from the Christian Women in Media Association National Conference hightlights tomorrow!

Christian Movie Connect Episode 69 – Papa Joe Bradford

cheryl@christianmovieconnect.com (Cheryl Ariaz Wicker) — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 14:04:34 +0000

Joe Bradford is the CEO and co-founder (along with his wife Denise) of Elijah’s Heart, a non-profit charitable and educational organization that serves children and families. As one of the nation’s most respected leaders and advocates for at-risk and fatherless children, Joe serves with his unique ability to unite teams for active service and love to the least fortunate through teaching, speaking and program development. In all circles of influence Joe touches, he is known as “Papa Joe.” Joe seeks to impact people and cities with an unstoppable move of love in action through the National Walk of Love Program and other powerful methods. He also holds the rare honor of having his triumphant life story inspire a major motion picture, “Unconditional,” which was released on DVD in March of 2013.

In this interview, Bradford talks with CMC host, Cheryl Ariaz Wicker, about how the art of film can

depict life change and personal transformation.

“Unconditional” is the true story of transformation where a life-saving encounter with two children leads a young woman named Sam to a reunion with her oldest friend Joe, which begins her journey back toward God’s unconditional love.

To view the trailer, click here. To know more about the movie visit http://unconditionalthemovie.com/.