A woman who flourished where angels and fools fear to tread

 For most of my life, people have been telling me not to try or to give up. They said my goals were impossible--that I couldn't possibly make any of it happen. But, what they were really saying was that it was impossible for them. Since they couldn't, I shouldn't even try. It was too bad and so sad that they empowered their fears and self-doubts instead of finding their own inner courage ignore the negative message. If you believe you can't, then you can't; yet if you are certain you can, you can find or make a way to reach your goals. I changed the punctuation, which modified the message to "I'm possible." What they didn't understand is that every time they said I couldn't, not only did I proved them wrong, but I did it so well that they looked foolish for doubting me.

I am a creative with a good business sense. As a storyteller, I tell tales about those who find the courage or are forced by circumstances beyond their control to face their deepest, darkest fears. As a producer, I use innovation, moxie, and the highest production standards to produce film and television projects. I base my projects on age, gender, and ethnic diversity both in front of and behind the cameras.

No matter what the venue, you first must start with an original concept and a well-crafted script. Adding the current visual/special effects or new talent doesn't make a project new, which makes nearly all remakes and sequels reruns.

Never Can Say Good-bye video one sheet from Theresa Chaze on Vimeo.

The current trend of focusing on A-list talent and high price tent poles projects only serves to reduce the number of projects produced every year, which increases the financial risk to the investors and the production company. Just because it worked before doesn't mean it will be successful again. Original projects initially carry more risk, but the truly innovative ones become the trendsetters and sent new bars for profitability. Casting talent in an inappropriate role, no matter what their marketing rating, will only serve to increase the budget and will hurt the project at the box office. However, casting a talented unknown in the right role will garner the audiences and create a future A-list talent. 

Money can't fix a bad project. By substituting money for innovation is throwing good after bad and is the main ingredient in producing a disaster. Business 101 states that profitability comes when you give the public what they want at a cost-effective price. Business 102 states that if you treat your people well, they will treat you well, which means paying them a living wage and giving them respect. These are two elements many in the business community have forgotten, which is why the economy is still challenged.

Although I have not served, I use my talents to actively support military personnel and veterans. Recently, I was asked why. The answer is simple. I don't have the temperament to serve. Nearly all of my time would have been spent in the stockade. Besides, I am only capable of shooting off my mouth. But at that, I'm a markswoman because I know how to use words as weapons. 

Horses and Heroes: An Unscripted Veteran TV Series from Theresa Chaze on Vimeo.

Most of those who serve signed their name and dedicated their lives to serving and protecting their country and the world. However, killing others is an unfortunate necessity for both sides of conflicts. This is a major disconnect that causes most of the emotional issues for those served. In order to defend, they have to kill. But killing is contradictory to their need to protect. I met a gentleman, who served during WWII, who put it the best. Looking back on his life, he felt guilty over the good men he killed just because they belonged to the other side and for his buddies, he was unable to save. Now decades later, those memories tore him up inside, because he couldn't stop thinking about them

Those who serve the nation are people, not disposable parts of the war machine and they are especially not political footballs that are to be used, abused, and then losed at the whims of politicians.

My job is to make sure civilians and especially politicians never forget that.

I am proud of my work. It will make you laugh, cry, and scare your socks off. But it will also inspire you to see the world in new ways. Join my team and become the difference you want to see in the world.

Website

Vetern and Activist Richard Bauer Endorses Military Series, Operation Home Base

Veteran, military activist and talk show host, Richard Bauer actively endorses the new military series, Operation Home Base.

Bauer served in the United States Air Force Command from 1988-2010. As a Inventory Management Specialist, he coordinated supply for the Air National Guard at Jefferson Barracks. He insured the mobility assets were available for deployment and all personnel were properly fitted and ready in the event of war. June 2000 – March 2003, Bauer performed military funeral honors for deceased active duty, retired and veteran personnel at Scott Air Force Base-Belleville IL. As Command and Control-flight Follower from April 2003-January 2006, he was the command agent responsible for the accurate, real-time global command control of all AMC directed tanker and airlift Missions in support of national interests worldwide. From May 1999-June 2010, he worked in the defense and space industry as the Missouri State employee, providing funeral honors for deceased veterans and retirees for the entire eastern part of Missouri. Currently, he is the host of Tribute to the Troops on the Virtual Entertainment Radio Network. It is a program that supports current members of the military as well as veterans.  The program will educate and explore questions or problems relating to military personnel.   By coalescing governmental, civilian and veteran’s organizations, Tribute to the Troops’ goal is to insure that not one soldier/airman/or sailor is left behind..

Of Operation Home Base, Bauer said:

“WOW...this is awesome, breath taking, and splendid; words cannot express my gratitude or thankfulness. I think you got a real winner. God Bless you for finally opening the family life of the military spouse to the general public.”
Rich Bauer MSgt USAF (Ret.)

Bauer’s associate said:

'I think the script is dealing in uncharted waters. This will be like nothing ever produced! What a brilliant idea to expose to the general audience real life situations that our fellow soldiers have to deal with returning home. Bravo!'
 
Two different members of the military and both Senior NCO's looked at the script like the military (Department of Defense--Washington) would look at it and we both agreed you got a hit.
 
Combining MASH and Little House on the Prairie into a family of man drama, Operation Home Base combines the real life challenges of living the military life with a fictional world-wide conspiracy of intrigue, murder, and lies. Refusing to be bullied, OHB begins to unravel the lies that surround the disappearance of Bogley and his squad.. Unable to deter them with the stick, their lead detractor does an about face and offers to support OHB with endless financial, political and logistic support. Is it a honest humanitarian offer or are their enemies trying to destroy it from the inside out.?

From the PTSD of the Vietnam nurses to the murder of a Marine’s therapy dog that leads to a wild and crazy fundraising fair, OHB will make the viewers laugh and cry. It will also build a bridge of understanding between those who serve and civilians. The viewers will be able to easily relate to the characters as family members, friends or the person they see in the mirror. Unlike most new shows, which either appeal to adults or children, OHB will be a drama that will appeal to the whole family

To read the full proposal and an excerpt of the pilot go to http://www.theresachaze.com/Operation_Home_Base.html

Paranormal Romance: Never Can Say Good-Bye

Never Can Say Good-bye is a paranormal romance reminiscent of the Reincarnation of Peter Proud and Fatal Attraction. Elizabeth arrives in Coyote Springs to help a friend. Instead she learns that love and hate survive death.


To read an excerpt of the script go to www.theresachaze.com

Blue Bloods: Where was Tom Selleck?

Blue Blood led CBS to rating victory on Friday night. But in spite of its success, I kept wondering where Tom Selleck was. An actor who looked very much like him appeared occasionally on the screen, but the vibrant, multi-dimensional actor that I have always enjoyed failed to make an appearance.

Blue Bloods is the story of a New York family, who has a multi-generational tradition of service in the police department. Selleck plays the current Police Commissioner, whose youngest son has just joined his brothers as the newest rookie. With a conspiracy within the police department and a secret society, Blue Bloods implied that the youngest son will be investigating his family, including his father. The problem is that no one cares. None of the family members are likeable or interesting.

Tom Selleck always gives a diamond performance. Even characters who would normally be one dimensional, he has been able to breathe life into, giving them depth with humor, character and likeability. Whether a good guy as in Magnum or the not-so-much of the white hat with the dark character Jesse Stone, Selleck’s eyes were always lit with his inner passion. As Frank Reagan, Selleck’s eyes were lifeless. In fact, the character was a little more than a prop for the younger characters as was Len Cariou’s. Part of me kept waiting for the real Selleck to make an appearance. Sadly, he never did arrive.

Over all the show reminded me of out of sync gears, where the teeth failed to properly work in tandem. Or better said a choir that was singing the same song, but the individual singers fail to listen to each other. The detective son was simply unlikable. His blaming his bad behavior on his military experience just made me dislike him even more. It was just one more stereotype those who serve simply don’t need. The daughter and the youngest son had no personality. I would like to comment on Cariou character, but he wasn’t given enough air time for me to comment beyond Cariou is normally first rate.

To be honest, I was hoping Blue Bloods would be a dog simply because I wanted Selleck to portray Deek in my military series, Operation Home Base. After hearing the rumors of trouble on the set, I held out a glimmer of hope. But I was realistic enough to start looking elsewhere to cast the role. Before watching Blue Bloods, I didn’t think Selleck had a bad performance in him. He was never just a pretty face, but a talented professional who has always brought passion and life to his work. Do I still want him to play Deek? You-betcha in a heart beat. Will I watch Blue Bloods again? No. There isn’t anything in the show interesting enough for me to spend the hour.

Producer Shara Nickell Joins Never Can Say Good-bye Staff

The executive producers of the paranormal romance film, Never Can Good-bye, announce the addition of veteran producer Shara Nickell to their staff.

Never Can Say Good-bye is a paranormal romance that is best described as the Reincarnation of Peter Proud meets Fatal Attraction. Described as a traditional ghost story by award winning screenwriter, Darlenne Girard, Never Can Say Good-bye ties the Michigan’s historical lumber era to modern day life to prove that love and hate survive death.

As a published photojournalist and still photographer, Nickell established a strong reputation for producing creative and unique work.  Having spent many years experienced in business and project management, in 2002 she returned to her attention to filmmaking, where her smart planning and her ability to successfully present projects to investors has establish her as the go-to producer. In 2009 she was approached by Class Clown Pictures to produce their slate of feature films. Once financing has been found, she will be joining the staff.

As a producer and line producer, she has worked with several award winning writers, directors, and cinematographers. She has produced numerous productions to include features, documentaries, television pilots, shorts, commercials and new media projects.

In the spring of 2010, Nickell partnered with Subtropolis Film Partners to the development the sci-fi action feature film, The Black Riders. Bringing her diverse experience both as producer and line producer to the production, Nickell will be using her connections, creativity and out of the box thinking to bring resources and personal touch to Never Can Say Good-bye.

Executive Producers will be looking to the new studios and at locations in Northern Michigan, including Traverse City and Manistee for possible scene sites.  Their goal is to keep the entire process within the Northwest area of Michigan due to the strength and availability of a qualified and skilled crew base, facilities, and staff and to make use of the Michigan film incentive program.

2010 Traverse City Film Festival

One of the great things about the Traverse City Film Festival is the chance for everyone to meet, discuss and learn about movies with the many incredible directors, producers and actors who come to TC for this one week each year. This year the festival will run from July 27-August 1, 2010.
And this year we have some fantastic opportunities for you to participate with our free panels, our expanded TCFF Film School and our new TC Film Forum in the Park. Please take the time to attend these events and experience, up close and personal, the filmmakers who have come here to share their ideas and talents with us.

Tickets to the film school sessions (just $5!) go on sale on Wednesday at noon online at traversecityfilmfest.org, at the box office at 300 E Front Street in Radio Center, and by calling 231-922-8903 (limit 4 tickets per person).

Here's what we've lined up for next week's festival:

FREE MORNING PANELS

Each morning at 9:30 you can come to one of the most popular events at the film festival: the daily morning panels the City Opera House. It's free, and we start handing out tickets at 8:30 am to guarantee seating. Don't miss these entertaining, provocative panels (click here to read full descriptions of this year's panels):

WEDNESDAY: Film Literacy: How to Be Smart by Going to the Movies in a Dumbed-Down Society -- with film professors from the University of Michigan, visiting filmmakers, and Michael Moore

THURSDAY: An Intimate Interview with America’s Premier Indie Film Moguls -- with the co-presidents of Sony Pictures Classics, Michael Barker and Tom Bernard, who will receive Lifetime Achievement Awards

FRIDAY: We Live in Cuba and We Make Movies -- with four Cuban filmmakers who have traveled from Havana to the Caribbean-blue waters of northern Michigan

SATURDAY: Here Comes Trouble: Eight Documentary Filmmakers Tell Us How They Did It, and Lived to Tell -- with Michael Moore and visiting documentary filmmakers, who may include Scot McFadyen and Sam Dunn (“Rush: Beyond the Lighted Stage”), Judith Ehrlich and Rick Goldsmith (“The Most Dangerous Man in America”), Josh Fox (“GasLand”), Mark Lewis (“Cane Toads: The Conquest”), Nicolas Rossier (“American Radical”), Lee Storey (“Smile ‘Til It Hurts: The Up With People Story”) and Michael Webber (“The Elephant in the Living Room”)

SUNDAY: The Comedy Panel -- with Michael Moore, festival favorites Jeff Garlin and Sabina Guzzanti, and visiting filmmakers

TCFF FILM SCHOOL

Hugely popular last year (with many classes sold out), we are expanding it this year to two master classes a day. And we've moved into onto the film fest bus loop at NMC's Scholars Hall (next to Milliken Auditorium). These classes are open to people of all ages. They are not speeches or panels; they are practical, hands-on learning experiences for anyone interested in making their own movies or videos. And each class is only five bucks:

WEDNESDAY at 12 noon: Sound is More Important Than Picture

WEDNESDAY at 3 pm: Screenwriting

THURSDAY at 12 noon: How To Make a Short Film

THURSDAY at 3 pm: Bill Plympton: Animation Master Class

FRIDAY at 12 noon: Acting for the Camera

FRIDAY at 3 pm: Making (and Financing) Your Film in Michigan

SATURDAY at 12 noon: Situational Ethics in Documentary Filmmaking

SATURDAY at 3 pm: Storytelling Through Documentary

TC FILM FORUM IN THE PARK

Ever wish, as you leave a great movie, that you could go talk about what you just saw with the people you saw it with? Starting with this year's fest, you can! Each day, twice a day, you are invited to Lay Park on Union Street to join us and your fellow festivalgoers to sit down and discuss nine of this year's movies. We'll have a moderator and often the filmmaker will be present. It's free, it's outdoors, we'll have refreshments (and there will be free live musical performances before and after the discussion sessions, from noon to 7 pm each day) and it'll be a great way to meet all the interesting people who've come here from across the country to watch movies. We think this will a very cool way to spend an hour and take a break from all the movie-watching. Think of this as a movielovers "be-in." Be there! I will!

Wednesday, July 28

“Budrus” -- after 12 noon movie

“12th & Delaware” -- after 3 pm movie

Thursday, July 29

“Waiting for ‘Superman’” -- after 12 noon movie

“Restrepo” -- after 3 pm movie

Friday, July 30

“American Radical” -- after 12 noon movie

“8: The Mormon Proposition” -- after 3 pm movie

Saturday, July 31

“The Most Dangerous Man in America: Daniel Ellsberg and the Pentagon Papers” -- after 12 noon movie

“GasLand” -- after 3 pm movie

“Strawberry and Chocolate” -- after 6 pm movie

So there you go! Lots of free stuff to enjoy the week and expand your consciousness. We're putting a lot of energy and focus into these gatherings and I assure you that you won't soon forget these interactive, egalitarian experiences at the Traverse City Film Festival. I look forward to seeing you there.