Twitter to Tales says Steve Martin

This week, Reuters reports on Comedian, Actor and Best-Selling Author, Steve Martin.  As it turns out, Steve Martin is planning on coming out with another best seller; only this time, its all about Twitter.  Steve stated, "[d]ue to absolutely no demand, soon I'm publishing a book of my tweets. Many of your replies included! All my profits to charity."  Grand Central Publishing reported that the book will be called "The Ten, Make That Nine Habits, of Very Organized People. Make That Ten," and will be a collection of Martin's tweets, as well as, responses from followers.  The book is due for release in Summer 2012.  

This story has created much buzz not because the actor is publishing another book, but because he is basing the book entirely on social media! Interestingly enough, it is an excellent marketing plan as for Martin intends to use some of his followers' replies.  Steve Martin has over 1.7 million fans following him, including myself.  I have no doubt that this book will be another best seller.   I also find it interesting that he is taking this concept of social networking and giving it life.  We tend to view social media as some kind of impersonal means of communication, but it really can be quite personal.  

Thanks to social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook, we can view pictures, read other's comments and thoughts; we are able to see their moods shift and even learn about their lifestyle, etc.  Interestingly enough, we make friends with strangers or speak to people we would have never imagined and have a "relationship" of some kind no matter how small it may seem.  Due to the shared interests or shared friends we tend to have on these social media channels, we also tend to be influenced in various ways, such as where we shop, where we dine, what movies to see, how to vote, etc.  All of these things can be influenced and used as a tool through the use of social media.  

Steve Martin takes credit as an Actor, Musician, Comedian, and Author, but he needs to add Marketing Guru to his resume as well.  Earlier this month, he tweeted, "Jack Black, Owen Wilson and I did the Ellen show today. Remind me, is that the movie? Or did we shoot a movie?"  

Here is a clip of the interview mentioned promoting his next movie:

I am definitely looking forward to reading Steve Martin's book to see what he has to say about the concept of social media.  I am certain that it will be enlightening, humorous, and witty.  Although I have yet to read one of his books, I already feel I know his style for I do read his tweets.

An Exclusive with Entertainment Attorney Darren Heitner, Esquire

Darren Adam Heitner, Esquire, the lawyer, educator, journalist, athlete, and advocate, recently took time out of his busy schedule to share a bit about himself and provide some insight on the world of entertainment law. 

Darren Adam Heitner, Esquire, is an attorney based in the State of Florida, who is licensed to practice on the state and federal level, and focuses on sports, entertainment, and intellectual property litigation and transactional work. He is the Founder and CEO of Dynasty Athlete Representation, Professor of Sport Agency Management at Indiana University Bloomington, and the Founder and Chief Editor of Sports Agent Blog, a leading niche industry publication.  He is also the Public Relations Director of the National Sports and Entertainment Law Society and Associate Executive Director of the Jewish Coaches Association.


Such accomplishments no doubtedly began with a solid education.  Darren has a Bachelors of Arts and a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from the University of Florida.  During his college career, he served two terms as the President of the "Entertainment and Sports Law Society" and Chair of the popular "UF Sports Law Symposium".  His passion for his career is apparent.  I asked Darren what first drew him to the entertainment industry.  He  expressed, "my involvement in sports. I started a sports agency and went to law school, focusing on sports law. Sports and entertainment are tied together in many ways. Being involved in sports led to involvement in the entertainment industry."  


Most of us have a passion and not all of us have been able to completely relish in it.  Mr. Heitner not only practices entertainment law, he is an educator as well as journalist.  To be so dedicated, there must be something that ignites his fire.   So, I asked Darren what fascinates him most about the industry, he replies, "The interesting issues and actors involved. Many of the matters involve intellectual property disputes, which I enjoy, and breaches of contract. I also love the transactional work involved." 

With several years in practicing entertainment law, Heitner states that the most common mistakes he finds most people making in this industry are "poor drafting of contracts at the formation of important relationships. Many contracts involve a lot of money and the actors do not spend the time and money to hire competent attorneys to protect themselves ahead of time."

Prior to this interview, I let Darren know that I am a graduate student at Full Sail University majoring in Entertainment Business.  Appropriately, I closed the interview, by asking Darren what he would advise a student or young professional starting out in this industry. "Work on building connections with those already entrenched in the industry. This industry is about who you know as much as anything else."




*** I would personally like to thank Attorney, Darren Heitner, Esq. for the opportunity to answer my questions and share his story, experiences, insights, and advice.  I admire your passion and your drive. ***

Lime light and Liabilities

Holly Madison, best known as Hugh Heffner's sexy playmate girlfriend on the hit televsion series "The Girls Next Door", has recently insured her breast for $1 million.  Holly expressed to People Magazine, "If anything happened to my boobs, I'd be out for a few months and I'd probably be out a million dollars," she told People. "I thought I'd cover my assets."  According to the Reuter article, many stars have insured several body parts.  This makes perfect sense to me.  Holly Madison, as well as other celebrities, have built an empire primarily on their physical appearance.  If anything were to happen to those "assets", more than likely, they would be out of work. 


Also in the lime lights, is Barnes & Nobles Bookstore, whom purchased long time competitor Borders' client dvd order list as well as Borders Brandmarket trademarks in bankruptcy court.  This is an excellent case featuring trademarks and brand recognition and the influences over customers.  Borders has proven to keep loyal customers through the use of various intellectual property laws like that of the trademark.  It was a good idea for Barnes & Noble to make such a purchase in order to win over Borders' clients.  


A 150 year old Grand Hotel in Dixville Noth, New Hampshire has built on their brand during this "shaky" economy.  Although, old hotels do struggle just as much as new resorts, there does seem to be an advatnage to its appeal.  At the Balsams Grand Resort, there seems to be a smarter way to invest; in its brand.  Local by the name of Roch states, "[etc] the advantage is there is more awareness in the market for historic hotels. They've got a name, they've got a reputation, they've got the word of mouth."  Sometimes, taking the time to invest in what sets your company apart from others and protecting that image will benefit the business.

Book Distibution has a Problem?

At Full Sail University, where I am finishing up my Master's program in Business Entertainment, I am currently taking a Media Publishing and Distibution Course.  In this course we often discuss Publishing and Distribution in the following industries of entertainment; print, music, film, and games.  I for one tend to focus a bit more in the print industry.  


The print industry appeals to me due to my background in writing.  I have taken several courses in creative writing as well as professional writing.  I have a background in Mass Communications and Sociology from the University of Central Florida.  During which, my thought process in one day publishing my very own story and eventually book was made possible.


I have yet to publish any work.  However, the interest in doing so is very much alive.  The thing that has held me back is of course the dedication in writing a piece of work and being satisfied with completion.  It is no secret that writers are never done writing.  We tend to edit, and edit again, knowing we can do better and communicate in a more creative and intelligent form.  A writer or any artist, often times competes with one self and is his or her own toughest critic.  


When one is ready to publish, one must consider distribution channels.  In the article, "Indie Publishing: The Problem With Distribution", it discusses the need to understand publishing and media enterprise.  Author, Joel Friedlander, explains; "in order to operate profitably within this system, a publisher has to identify books that will have a very broad appeal, market these books to a national audience, print and distribute enough of these books to take advantage of mass media exposure, [and] absorb the losses on all “losers” by using the profits from big “winners.”  This basically suggests, that as an independent publisher, it is very important to know how to market your book or it may not succeed once published.  


The article continues to describe the "new world of publishing" in which independent publishers may be able to succeed through its "new world" distribution channels such as; amazon.com, the internet, social media, and ebooks.  Friedlander states, "[a]ll this has created what you might call a golden age for indie publishing. As long as indie publishers understand the nature of the book distribution that’s available to them, and exploit the advantages they have over larger publishers, amazing sales can be the result." 


As we have grown familiar with Mass Media and the world of Publication, we must also open our eyes to the many distribution channels being offered through the web today.  Book distibution may be a problem to some, but to others it is but a challenge.
   

Drea Considers Castng Director

During my time at edgefactory Omnimedia, I had the opportunity to assist the Creative Director.  I would assist in searching for props and materials for shows, book hair and make up artists, search for images to be used in film, as well as search for talent.  


I realized that I enjoy every bit of my work, but my favorite was that of finding the talent.  I enjoy bringing the client or direcrtor's image to life by realizing their needs as well as their taste and feel for the project.  This was by far my favorite part of work.  To what others call work, I call play time.  


Since I was a little girl, I would watch the Miss America and Miss Universe Pageants.  I would always know whom were going to be the top finalists.  As I child I knew that I wanted to work in the entertainment industry.  At first, like most in the industry, wanted to be the one in the lime light.  However, over the years, I began to understand my talents. 


My experiences include; acting, singing, dancing, modeling, drawing, painting, and writing.  A few of these, I have gotten a bit rusty at due to lack of practice.  I believe that to entertain, is like being an athlete; one must practice and compete in order to eventually be the best when its time to perform.  I understand the importance of discipline and perserverance.  


Being a part of the entertainment is hard work that takes much dedication both on stage and back stage.  I applaud the script writers, directors, and composers, for they are the master minds or the puppet masters in what is being performed for all to see.  It is their ideas in collaboration with collegues and assistants working together in order for it to all come together as it should.  The vision needs to be realized.


I have found that I understand both on stage and back stage roles fairly well.  I have learned that I have a keen eye and talent for pulling it all together.  That is why I believe that in my chosen career field of entertainment, I may be a skilled Casting Director.  I enjoy making people's dreams come true as well as understanding the needs of the client.  I have the experience and the talent, a sixth sense in recognizing what talents will be right for the task; just as those chosen in beauty pageants.  


I understand that this position requires much patience for it does not always take a day to find the right talent for the job.  I understand that working with creative indviduals may not be a pleasant task and once again, patience is required.  I understand how the attention working with talents may require, again, I know I posses such patience to work cooperatively.  Patience is a skill I have not acquired over the years, but one that has been gifted to me early on in my life.  


After my experices as both a Model Scout and a Communications/Production Coordinator, I feel that I have found my calling as a Casting Director.  I have been told that I am a very well connected individual and I use my networking skills whenever I can.  I appreciate business from anyone, as I believe we all have a need for one another.  This skill will enable me to be resourceful in working with others in search of acquiring the talent.


To know more about Casting Directors and their roles, please visit: http://filmtvcareers.about.com/od/basics/p/CP_CastingDir.htm and http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-casting-director.htm      

Controversy in the World of Entertainment

Controvery exists everywhere- even in the world of entertainment.  Just because the entertainment Industry may be viewed as artistic and glamorous, it doesn't mean that law and business practices don't apply.  Today, I will give you three examples of current controvery in the entertainment industry. 


I begin with one cause that is personal to me, the "Real Men Don't" PSA created by Ashton Kutcher and Demi Moore in their efforts to end child sex slavery.  The big controvery is that film maker Tom Kiesche has been using the "Real Men Don't" phrase since 2006.  Online entertainment website, Bitten & Bound has an article, "Tom Kiecshe vs. Ashton Kutcher 'Real Men Don't' Controvery", compares both videos by Kiecshe and Kutcher and asks readers to see for themselves.  They also report that a spokesman of Ashton's and Demi's told Canyon News, "This allegation is absurd.  There are 7.8 million results on Google for the phrase (Real Men Don’t), used in all sorts of media.”


Another current controversy in the world of entertainment lies in that of the fashion industry.  Its no secret that Calvin klein has been known to be quite controversial in many of his ads over the years.  The most norotious was the Brooke Sheilds ad where the 15 year old at the time stated, "Nothing comes between me and my Calvins".  This time its supermodel Laura Stone wearing nothing but underwear and her body along with the background seem to be spelling out a naughty word.  That's right, the streets of Manhatan seem to be receiving the F-U-"ck" (the calvin klein signature).  Click here to view the billboard.  Fox News Entertainment reporter, Hollie McKay, interviewed editor of AdRants, Steve Hall; he stated, "It won't hurt the brand because CK isn't a brand people look towards to be ‘sensitive’ or ‘politically correct’ or just plain ‘nice.’ No. It's a fashion brand and by design, fashion brands push limits".  As we all know, the 1980's Brooke Sheilds ad did just fine despite all the controversy.  Makes you wonder if creating such controvery is a smove business move.  I think it depends on the industry.


The final controvery I'd liek to share is that of Dreamwork's "Kung Fu Panda".  In China there are protestors who feel the movie has "Americanized" the Chinese culture.  The movie uses several Chinese elements to capture audiences-especially Chinese.  Some Chinese scholars and artists have argued that film has twisted Chinese culture and serves as a tool to "kidnap" Chinese people.  English News Editor, Fang Yang, reports that some Chinese view it as a "cultural invasion".  However, many other Chinese viewers have been huge fans of the "Kung Fu Panda" movies.  They often wonder why they (the Chinese people) have not ever created a movie quite like this before.  The story also reports Deputy General Manager, Cao Hui, expressed "Technically, Kung Fu Panda is not more advanced than Chinese movies, but as for story telling skills, Chinese movies have a long way to go".  The arguments closes with the understanding that there seems to be nothing wrong with using Chinese elements in creating fine cinema.


These three examples are perfect examples of current day controversy in the world of entertainment.  There are tons of other examples found related to the entertainment industry.  One must remember that the Entertainment Industry, like many fellow industries, have much legal guidelines to follow.  The world of creativity is as much business as any other and it is always important to consider and explore all the outcomes and risks imagineable.  Its never a bad idea to continue to conduct research and seek legal guidance or counsil. 

Ready for Jurassic Park 4?

Over the weekend, film director, Steven Spielburg announced at Comic-Con Interntional Convention in San Diego, California, that there will be a Jurrasic 4 coming to theaters in 2013 or 2014.  


Spielburg made a claim; "We have a story. We have a writer working on the script, and I think we will see a 'Jurassic 4' in our foreseeable future, probably in the next two or three years."  

Joe Johnston, the "Captain America" director who worked on the first three, had a bit more to add to Spielburg's comment.  According to the Huffington Post, Johnson stated; "We are in discussions about 'Jurassic Park 4, the most important thing I can tell you is that it starts a new trilogy that will go off in a different direction -- a completely different direction that is very exciting."

Spielburg, a sci-fi film fan since childhood who made the genre movies "E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial" and "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," was at Comic-Con to receive an "Inkpot Award" for achievement in science-fiction movies.

Reuters claims that Spielburg received a standing ovation from the crowd and told them: "We all love the same source material that has brought all of us here and the source material has always been the collective imaginations of so many brilliant artists and storytellers."


Steven Spielburg is a man that needs no introduction.  He is a man of innovation and strong imagintation.  When he created the first Jurrasic Park in 1993, he really brought to life the pre-historic creatures and had them co-exist with human beings for the first time that hisotry and science would ever allow such existence.  The film was indeed a success and so was the sequal, Jurassic Park 2.  However, Jurassic Parl 3, may I just note was not directed by Spielburg, was not a success.  The question is, are we ready for another Jurassic Park adventure after twenty years?

Since news of the anticipatd Jurassic Park 4, many fans are already becoming impatient.  They are eager to see what this new film will bring.  Whether it be a nostalgic crowd awaitng a film from their youth or a sci-fi infused audience, the buzz of Jurassic 4 is being heard world wide.  There is no doubt that Spielburg will add much of his signature wonder to this highly anticipated film.