Central Texas African Americans in Film

83rd Annual Academy Awards Winners

2011-02-28T23:53:00.000-06:00

The Oscars have come and gone. The biggest complaint circulating the wire this year was the exclusion of African-Americans from the nominees. Actors like Anthony Mackie and Idris Elba say the black film communities are getting lazy and need to step up their game, pull the resources together and make more movies. I can agree with this and we also need to get in the theaters and support these movies also because it is a business and the monetary success of one leads to others receiving a green light.

As I take a look at the list, The King's Speech and Inception had the most wins followed by The Social Network. I was disappointed that Waste Land for best documentary and Black Swan for editing didn't win, but I have not seen the winning movies Inside Job and Social Network. Here is the list of winners:

Best Picture - The King's Speech
Actor in a Leading Role - Colin Firth (The King's Speech)
Actor in a Supporting Role - Christian Bale (The Fighter)
Actress in a Leading Role - Natalie Portman (Black Swan)
Actress in a Supporting Role - Melissa Leo (The Fighter)
Animated Feature Film - Toy Story 3
Art Direction - Alice in Wonderland
Cinematography - Inception
Costume Design - Alice In Wonderland
Directing - The King's Speech
Documentary Feature - The Inside Job
Documentary Short Subject - Strangers No More
Film Editing - The Social Network
Foreign Language Film - In A Better World
Makeup - The Wolfman
Music (Original Score) - The Social Network
Music (Original Song) - Toy Story 3
Short Film (Animated) - The Lost Thing
Short Film (Live Action) - God of Love
Sound Editing - Inception
Sound Mixing - Inception
Visual Effects - Inception
Writing (Adapted Screenplay) - The Social Network
Writing (Original Screenplay) - The King's Speech

Fifth Annual Texas Black Film Festival Begins

2011-02-22T22:43:00.000-06:00

The Fifth Annual Texas Black Film Festival begins tomorrow running from Feb 23 - Feb 26 at the Studio Movie Grill in Dallas. This is a good film festival to meet and greet filmmakers and the only festival in Texas that caters to the African-American niche. Ya'ke Smith's Katrina's Son will screen on Wednesday and Thursday starting at 8:00 PM. Katrina's Son won the Jury Prize at the 2010 Austin Film Festival. Also playing, will be a feature film from the UK, Sus. This film is set in 1979 on election night and mostly takes place in a police interrogation room where a suspect is questioned after his pregnant wife is found dead. It will close the festival on Saturday.

To see the full list of official selections click here.

Here is a previous article about TBFF:
Texas Black Film Festival Accepting Submissions

Blacktino Trailer Released

2011-02-22T22:08:00.001-06:00

It's finally here! The full trailer has been released for the dark teen comedy Blacktino. Sad, fat, black, latino, nerd. It doesn't get any worse than that reads the tagline. Blacktino is scheduled for a world premiere on the opening night of the SXSW Film Festival on March 11, 9:30 PM, at The Paramount Theater. The film stars Austin Marshall, Devyn Ray, Tiger Sheu, Denise Williamson, Bryan Jackson, Conrad Gonzalez, Timeca Seretti, Danny Trejo, Jeff Fahey, Selma Pinkard and Daryl Sabara.

This is Aaron Burns first directorial debut from a screenplay he also wrote. It's produced by Spy Kids and Sin City's Elizabeth Avellan. This movie was filmed in Austin and will premiere in Austin. It should be well received by the locals who can pass on the buzz to the thousands of attendees during SXSW.

Here is the synopsis:

Blacktino is a dark teen comedy about an overweight half-black, half-hispanic nerd named Stefan Daily. He was raised by his black grandmother in a medium sized suburb of Austin, TX. Struggling to find his place in a mostly white high school, Stefan finds sanctuary among the eclectic mix of social outcasts in the school's theatre department. In the tradition of the great teen comedies of the last thirty years Blacktino will ensure that the torch of teen angst continues to burn bright.

Here are previous articles written on Blacktino:
Dark Teen Comedy 'Blacktino' Set For Production
Extras Needed For Funeral Scene in Blacktino

Texas Black Film Festival Accepting Submissions

2011-01-13T00:50:00.000-06:00

The submission deadline for TBFF has been extended to January 15. You can submit shorts/TV pilots, features, documentaries and animation films.

TBFF will host three full days of entertaining and insightful films, workshops, and events. Programmed for family entertainment and inspired by the African-American experience, this festival will provide filmmakers an opportunity to reach audiences with films seldom recognized through major theatrical release.

The Fifth Annual Texas Black Film Festival will be held from February 23 - 26, 2011 at the Studio Movie Grill in Dallas.

"Mother Country" Trailer

2011-01-12T00:39:00.000-06:00

'Mother Country' follows a young African American man, Dwight Porter, an unwilling criminal on the run. After committing murder, Dwight goes remorseful and leaves his environment with a goal: walk across the United States in search of a former teacher, the one person who believed in him.

'Mother Country' is written, directed and produced by Maria Breaux. Check out the trailer below:

Mother Country Trailer from Mother Country on Vimeo.

CTAAF 2010 Community Accomplishments

2010-12-29T09:31:00.002-06:00

2010 is coming to a close and we would like to take this time to reflect on the good amongst the community for theater, film and TV this past year. With your help, we would like to compile a list of all your accomplishments. This list includes completed items that have been viewed by the public. This is your time to brag and simply let the world know you've been active over the past year.

Here are some of the accomplishments of 2010 based on the entries on our Facebook page:

"Kings of the Evening":

Filmed in Bartlett, Texas, Released on DVD
2011 Black Reel Awards Nominee - Outstanding Indie Feature Film

Ya'ke Smith:

"Katrina's Son" - Director - 2010 Austin Film Festival Winner Jury Prize Narrative Short
"Katrina's Son" - Director - 2011 Black Reel Awards Nominee - Outstanding Indie Short Film

Herman Whitney III:

"Katrina's Son" - Actor

Gina McCauley:

"Namaste" - short film - Director
The Root 100 List of Young Achievers and Pace Setters

Kelley Phillips-Glover:

"U Better Sing" - web series

Timeca Seretti:

"Drama" - short film - Austin Film Festival official selection

Will Martin:

"East of the Highway" - short film, Director

Henry Smith III:

"East of the Highway" - actor

Armsteady Nguvu:

Fox Living Room Wars
"Steady Shooting" - short film

Angela Burns:

Casting assistant - Beth Sepko

T.K. Henderson:

Started CTAAF
"Triad" - actor

Jay Curtis:

PBS National Commercial
"Another Days Journey" - Producer
"Dark Rise New World Order" - Producer

Rakeda Lashae:

"The Fix" - Director

Mariah Robinson:

"Can't Take It With You" - Stage play - Actor

I know I've missed plenty of accomplishments. Help me by documenting names, info, and links in the comment section or you can send the info to me at (quincy dot minor at gmail).

Free Millennium Theatre Holiday Movie Matinee

2010-12-13T20:16:00.001-06:00

The Millennium Theatre will be screening 'The Grinch That Stole Christmas' for free on Saturday, December 18th 10:15 am. I would honestly say that I have never visited this theatre. I haven't simply avoided it, but it only screens one movie at a time and its closed Sunday through Tuesday. Currently, 'Unstoppable' is playing in the theatre. I actually want to see this movie so this may be my ticket to get there.

African American Creative Arts/Community Happy Hour

2010-12-13T19:46:00.003-06:00

Harold McMillan posted this on our Facebook wall and I thought it was one of those important networking events that everyone should know about.

DiverseArts invites you, The African American Creative Industry/Arts Community, to join us for an early evening Happy Hour gathering at our gallery.

This is not a meeting, but a social hour, networking event, reunion, conversation opportunity, time to relax and enjoy a wine-tasting Happy Hour (sponsored by Twin Liquors). There will be informal discussion on the new African American Cultural Heritage District in East Austin and ways we might come together to collaborate on programming opportunities within the District.

As well, DiverseArts has a visual arts gallery appropriate for meetings, classes, screenings, poetry readings, receptions and such. We also have access to performance venues, The Historic Victory Grill and Kenny Dorham’s Backyard on East 11th Street. We want to do what we can to facilitate and, collaborate on, cultural programs within the District that showcase the creative talents of our community of African American Artists. We want to work with you! Perhaps conversations begun at this monthly Happy Hour Series can move us, together, in that direction.

DiverseArts Culture Works • New East Arts Gallery • 1601 E. 5th, Suite 106 • Austin, TX 78702

Thursday, Dec 16th, 2010,

6:00pm to 8:00pm

RSVP Appreciated, but not required

Contact: Harold McMillan director@diversearts.org • 512.477.9438

TXMPA Says Incentives Are Working

2010-12-13T19:11:00.000-06:00

TXMPA President Don Stokes recently sent a letter to its members about the projected shortfall in our state's budget and its leadership is already meeting with key legislators to make them fully aware of the successes of the program. To assist them in effectively conveying the message, they have contracted with an advocacy firm Greenburg Traurig, LLP and Lawrence Collins.

Upcoming plans for Lobby Day 2011 are already underway to build upon the success from previous lobby days. Stokes also states:

"To date, our state incentive program has generated over $610 million dollars in new in-state spending and has accounted for over 55,000 jobs for Texans. An independent economic impact study will show how this equates in actual dollars returned to the state. We feel confident that our program and this report will prove the viability of our efforts. Still, we need to make improvements to the program in order to grow and spread the work across the entire state."

Currently, TXMPA is enjoying an all time high in membership, but it only represents a small fraction of industry professionals across the state. It needs more financial resources to see through the legislative session and they are encouraging you, friends, colleagues and everyone in the industry to be a paid member.

The 82nd Texas Legislative session begins January 11, 2011.

2010 Black List Released

2010-12-13T14:13:00.000-06:00

The Black List is a snapshot of the collective taste of the people who develop, produce, and release theatrical feature films in the Hollywood studio system and the mainstream independent system.

An annual list of Hollywood's most liked unproduced screenplays published on the second Friday of December each year, THE BLACK LIST began in 2004 as a survey with contributions from 75 film studio and production company executives. In 2009, over 300 executives contributed their opinion.

The list was created by Franklin Leonard when he was a development executive at Leonardo Dicaprio's company, Appian Way. He was drowning in so many bad screenplays, that he sent an email to other executives asking for good script suggestions. He compiled the many replies into what is now called the Black List. This year marks the sixth annual release of the list. Leonard is now working for Will Smith's Overbrook Entertainment. He was recently at the Austin Film Festival to present the script reading of Maggie Carey's 2009 Black List script "The Hand Job".

To download the list, click here. The Black List

Night Catches Us and Black Swan in Theaters

2010-12-05T08:22:00.000-06:00

Night Catches Us and Black Swan hit theaters this weekend on December 3rd. Both films have had wonderful runs throughout select film festivals this year. I had a chance to see Black Swan at the Austin Film Festival and it was a treat unlike anything I have ever seen. If you have seen one or both of these movies, take a moment to comment on the films below.

In 1976, after years of mysterious absence, Marcus (Anthony Mackie, "The Hurt Locker") returns to the Philadelphia neighborhood where he came of age in the midst of the Black Power movement. While his arrival raises suspicion among his family and former neighbors, he finds acceptance from his old friend Patricia (Kerry Washington, "Ray," "Lift") and her daughter. However, Marcus quickly finds himself at odds with the organization he once embraced, whose members suspect he orchestrated the slaying of their former comrade-in-arms. In a startling sequence of events, Marcus must protect a secret that could shatter everyone's beliefs as he rediscovers his forbidden passion for Patricia.

BLACK SWAN follows the story of Nina (Portman), a ballerina in a New York City ballet company whose life, like all those in her profession, is completely consumed with dance. She lives with her retired ballerina mother Erica (Barbara Hershey) who zealously supports her daughter’s professional ambition. When artistic director Thomas Leroy (Vincent Cassel) decides to replace prima ballerina Beth MacIntyre (Winona Ryder) for the opening production of their new season, Swan Lake, Nina is his first choice. But Nina has competition: a new dancer, Lily (Kunis), who impresses Leroy as well. Swan Lake requires a dancer who can play both the White Swan with innocence and grace, and the Black Swan, who represents guile and sensuality. Nina fits the White Swan role perfectly but Lily is the personification of the Black Swan. As the two young dancers expand their rivalry into a twisted friendship, Nina begins to get more in touch with her dark side with a recklessness that threatens to destroy her.

Wesley Snipes ordered to prison

2010-12-02T22:00:00.000-06:00

A federal judge has ordered Wesley Snipes to report to a federal prison for his tax conviction.

The U.S. Marshalls office issued a notice ordering Snipes to voluntarily surrender at the Federal Correctional Institute McKean in Lewis Run, Pennsylvania by noon December 9th the Associated Press reports.

Snipes has been free on bail while appealing his 2008 conviction for willful failure to file income tax returns.

He has starred in the Blade trilogy, Demolition Man, New Jack City, Passenger 57, among others.

Texas Film/TV Productions In Jeopardy

2010-12-01T13:15:00.001-06:00

The state will be making budget cuts which could affect media productions in the State of Texas. Last April, the Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program went into effect after a smaller incentive program was established during the 2007 legislative session.

Before the new program, Texas' previous incentive project was ranked among the worst for the amount of money and number of jobs offered. Paul Alvardo-Dykstra, Central Texas Representative of TXMPA says,

"Since April 2009, we've seen a tremendous uptick in the amount of film, television, game production and commercial production in Texas."

However, the local media industry can be unsteady. "Friday Night Lights" finished shooting its final season and two other Texas-based productions, "My Generation" and "Lone Star," were both canceled after two episodes.

"Especially in a downturn, this isn't something we want to cut off. We want to maintain and keep it going because it's working. Three out of four major networks now have been making TV in Texas and that's huge for us,"

Alvarado-Dykstra said.

To read the entire article click here News8Austin

Central Texas African Americans In Film Facebook Page

2010-08-02T20:54:00.001-05:00

We have created a Facebook page, commonly referred to as a Fan Page, as another point of contact so we can connect and share with all of you. Join us ASAP.

Click here to go to Facebook.

CTAAF presents "Beginning Steps to Acting Success"

2010-08-02T20:29:00.000-05:00

In this class you will learn about various opportunities available as an actor along with ways on how to develop your talents thru acting coaches and classes without being scammed. Also, discover the correct process to land a manager and/or agent. Finally, learn how to promote yourself with professional marketing tools i.e. headshots, resumes, demo reels, etc.

Fee: $10
No age limit
Facilitated by: Timeca Seretti

Timeca Seretti is an actress, writer and producer who has booked numerous commercials, print ads, short films and her latest, a principal role in the highly acclaimed feature film “Blacktino”. Blacktino is being directed by Aaron Burns, Executive Producer, Elizabeth Avellán. She is also one of the founding members of Altered Stages Production Company. Timeca is represented by Tag Talent.

August 7 · 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Mojoe Room Bar & Grill
6406 N IH 35 Ste 1600
Austin, TX

To register please contact TK Henderson at tk_henderson@yahoo.com or call 512-633-0319.

Urban Media Festival - "Monetize Your Media"

2010-08-02T20:11:00.001-05:00

The 2010 Urban Media Festival is a festival like no other. This years event is a mix of seminars, workshops, screenings, and power networking.

The line up is incredible:

Jamaa Fanaka Director of the Penitentiary Film Series

Maxie D. Collier Author of The iFilm Digital Video Filmmakers Handbook, one of the first books on digital filmmaking

Anthony Artis Author of Shut Up And Shoot Documentary Guide The #1 Book on Amazon.com for Directing &Producing;, and Amateur Production

Cliff McBean Director of The DJ Screw Documentary

The primary focus of the Urban Media Festival is how to Monetize Your Media

Over the past few years the barriers to entry into media production have not just been lowered, they have almost been buried. Cameras, computers and editing systems are becoming faster, cheaper, and more intuitive. It is happening faster than the industry can write standards. Although there is a lot of confusion in the field now, there is also great opportunity.

The opportunities stem from sound production skills, continuous study, market research and marketing. Having access to equipment is the beginning. In fact owning a camera does not make you a media maker just as owning a hammer does not make you a carpenter. We have brought a group together will help decode the current market by analyzing the past and forecasting the future of the media business.

Click here for more information.

Michael Elliott's 'Pitch To Sell' Webinar

2010-07-28T01:10:00.000-05:00

You have a great idea, story, or screenplay. But if you don’t pitch it the ‘right’ way, you could miss an opportunity to sell it. So, how do you pitch your idea, story or script in way that makes a producer or studio executive want to pay you for it? What are the principles of a great pitch? What’s the best way to present your story? How do you compel a producer or studio exec to want to buy your idea, story or script BEFORE you even tell them the story? How can you be effective in your pitch meeting even if you suck at public speaking, are uncomfortable in large social settings or are naturally shy? Are there materials that you use to help sell your pitch? What are ‘trailer moments’ and what do they have to do with your pitch? What’s the secret to being engaging in your pitch meeting? How do you end your pitch in a way that renders producers and execs breathless and excited?

Get the answers to these questions and more at “Pitch to Sell” Part 1, my next Live Webinar scheduled for this SUNDAY, AUGUST 1st from 9:00 am – 10:15 am (PDT).

http://michaelelliotwebinaraugust1.eventbrite.com/

“Pitch to Sell” Part 1 – Live Webinar will be RECORDED. So if you can’t attend the live virtual event, register anyway so that you can receive the link to watch the recording at your convenience.

Veteran screenwriter Michael Elliott's produced credits include: Like Mike, Brown Sugar and Just Wright.

Film Industry Bash in Austin

2010-07-27T21:41:00.000-05:00

On Thursday, July 29th, we invade one of the most promising and tight-knit industries in the country - Austin, TX! Join over 200 fellow filmmakers, actors, models, casting directors, producers, agents and industry professionals for an evening of drinking, mingling and networking in the heart of Austin's famed Warehouse district. Speakeasy offers everything you could imagine for an unforgettable night of fun, dancing and priceless new friendships!

Must RSVP to attend. Click here to RSVP

Free bottles of Magic Hat for first hour
Free Grey Goose specialty cocktails

Masala Film Works Needs Make-up Artist for 'Sarathi'

2010-07-03T02:22:00.000-05:00

Masala Film Works director/producer Maganthrie Pillay is working with a fellow Austin filmmaker on a project called Sarathi. They are in need of a make-up artist for both general and special effects makeup urgently. Principal photography will commence in Austin from July 5th - 12th. The experience promises to be incredible and the credit is, of course, invaluable. It is also a great way to see how a low budget film gets made along with meeting and networking with more crew members.

This film explores the universal question, "Who am I?" and revolves around the mind of Arjun Patel, a young and successful consultant. While riding the waves of success, Arjun rides a limo with an unusual chauffeur. The driver, through intriguing questions, takes Arjun on a journey he is not prepared for, and ultimately brings Arjun back to a familiar place - himself.

To learn more about the film sarathithefilm.com

If you are interested in this job send your resume, questions and info to maganthriep@gmail.com

Extras Needed for Funeral Scene in 'Blacktino'

2010-07-03T00:56:00.000-05:00

Approximately 50 African American extras of all ages are needed for Nana's funeral scene in Blacktino. There is no monetary compensation, but it will include a free copy of the film upon completion. Meals will be provided for those who work over six hours. A release form must be signed by the parent/guardian of minors.

Email blacktinocasting@gmail.com with subject Nana's funeral for shoot date and wardrobe information.

Blacktino Extras Casting - website

Dark Teen Comedy 'Blacktino' Set for Production

2010-07-03T00:33:00.001-05:00

Urban Arson studios has teamed with director Aaron Burns to produce Blacktino. It's produced by Spy Kids and Sin City's Elizabeth Avellan. Production will begin July 12th with a release date in March 2011. Casting director Angela Burns selected the following actors to star: Austin Marshall, Devyn Ray, Tiger Sheu, Leon Washington, Denise Williamson, Bryan Jackson, Conrad Gonzalez, Timeca Seretti, Danny Trejo, Jeff Fahey, Selma Pinkard and Daryl Sabara. Aaron Burns will have his first shot at directing a feature film from the screenplay he also wrote. Recently, Burns short film Now or Never premiered at the 2010 SXSW film festival. Click here to watch the comedy short on Vimeo.

Blacktino is a dark teen comedy about an overweight half-black, half-hispanic nerd named Stefan Daily. He was raised by his black grandmother in a medium sized suburb of Austin, TX. Struggling to find his place in a mostly white high school, Stefan finds sanctuary among the eclectic mix of social outcasts in the school's Theatre Department. In the tradition of the great teen comedies of the last thirty years Blacktino will ensure that the torch of “teen angst” continues to burn bright.

To get a good look at some concept art, posters and the cast, head on over to blacktinomovie.com

Entertainment Actors, Writers, and Producers Promote Industry Awareness in Austin

2010-06-23T20:27:00.000-05:00

(Austin, Texas) LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION! Central Texas African Americans in film and television will join to establish a viable network and cultivate awareness on industry issue and opportunities. The event will be held Saturday, June 26 beginning 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at the Mojoe Room Bar & Grill located at Lincoln Village (6406 N. IH-36, Suite 1600). The goal is to unite artists working in various aspects of entertainment and create a path leading to continued success for those in “show business.”

Texas has fast become known as “Little Hollywood” with Austin’s rolling hillsides and buzzing downtown making it a “hotbed” for the entertainment industry. While the film and music festivals here are world-renowned in allowing many artists to showcase their work, more can be done.

“Both the city and the state is home to entertainment attorneys, directors, graphic artists, producers, screenwriters, photographers, editors and event make-up artists. Having the right connections can mean new opportunities for work in the industry,” says Coordinator TK Henderson. “I believe it’s important to not only be proactive in pursuing those opportunities, but also in recognizing and galvanizing the talent we have right in our own backyard.”

The forum will allow for open discussion and interaction where attendees can exchange information on current projects, upcoming opportunities, and other industry issues.

“Filmmakers from around the world come here to film, movies and documentaries. Networks come to shoot television shows, and writers come for ideas and inspiration! These are just a few of the reasons we believe it’s important to join forces in Central Texas and build upon this momentum. We want to provide support for this thriving community of artists, “added Henderson.

This event is open to everyone in the entertainment industry. For more details contact TK Henderson at tk_henderson@yahoo.com or call 512-633-0319. Remember the scene: Mojoe Room Bar & Grill on June 26 from 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.