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.
Sunday, September 18, 2011
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
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
Sunday, August 7, 2011
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.
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.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
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?
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.
Monday, July 11, 2011
Negative Perception Negates deals for Casey Anthony
Over the past three years, Casey Anthony has made a name for herself. She is one of the most recognizable women in the world right now. However, the way she acquired her infamous reputation had to do with the murder of her 2 and half year old daughter, Caylee Anthony.
Even though Casey was not found guilty of the murder do to insufficient proof, many entertainment professionals were aware of the attention that was drawn to this case. Hence, they assumed that they should cash in on her persona right away. As of right now, Casey has been offered a deal to appear on the Maury Show, a deal to star in an adult film, a movie concerning the case seems to be in the works, and of course a million dollar book deal.
However, several of those offers have been retracted due to the negative perception she has made for herself. Vivid's Co-Chairman, Steven Hirsch, has reportedly changed his mind after Vivid fans expressed that they want nothing to do with Anthony.
The question now is, will the other offers be retracted? If the porn industry does not want anything to to with Cassey, how will other appearances and books sell? The idea that these offers are directly intended to profict Casey, may in fact turn off the consumers. However, there has not been such a hype of interest in such a case since the O.J. Simpson trial. There has been talk that the jurors should come together to write a book about their experiences during this trial. There may be better chances of a profit for the jurors than there may be for Anthony. I have seen many messages throughout social media of people protesting Casey Anthony's offers.
Even though Casey was not found guilty of the murder do to insufficient proof, many entertainment professionals were aware of the attention that was drawn to this case. Hence, they assumed that they should cash in on her persona right away. As of right now, Casey has been offered a deal to appear on the Maury Show, a deal to star in an adult film, a movie concerning the case seems to be in the works, and of course a million dollar book deal.
However, several of those offers have been retracted due to the negative perception she has made for herself. Vivid's Co-Chairman, Steven Hirsch, has reportedly changed his mind after Vivid fans expressed that they want nothing to do with Anthony.
The question now is, will the other offers be retracted? If the porn industry does not want anything to to with Cassey, how will other appearances and books sell? The idea that these offers are directly intended to profict Casey, may in fact turn off the consumers. However, there has not been such a hype of interest in such a case since the O.J. Simpson trial. There has been talk that the jurors should come together to write a book about their experiences during this trial. There may be better chances of a profit for the jurors than there may be for Anthony. I have seen many messages throughout social media of people protesting Casey Anthony's offers.
"energy, emotion, and edge" with edgefactory Omnimedia
Its been almost two solid months since I joined the edgefactory team as a Communications Coordinator. In my previous entries I expressed my desire to work in the entertainment industry and be able to give back to society in a positive manner. Now I know, that I have been blessed to have found a company that has the same beliefs as me and strives for perfection in all creative forms.
Let me first begin by introducing edgefactory Omnimedia. edgefactory OMNIMEDIA is a leading producer of creative video, meetings and special events for Fortune 500 companies, major industry associations and a host of other organizations. Founded in 1998, edgefactory is a multi-disciplined creative resource offering an array of services from creative writing, video production, graphic design, 3D imaging, original music and technical support.
"We are the award winning, 2010 EMMY® NOMINATED, edgefactory OMNIMEDIA, we are committed to providing world class convention and corporate video production services at affordable prices. Everything that we do, we do with energy, emotion, and, of course, edge".
Based in Orlando, edgefactory's experienced production team uses cutting edge technology to produce and deliver creative video content across the country and internationally. Among its clientele are film production agencies, Audio Visual companies, professional meeting planners, and Fortune 500 companies.
Let me first begin by introducing edgefactory Omnimedia. edgefactory OMNIMEDIA is a leading producer of creative video, meetings and special events for Fortune 500 companies, major industry associations and a host of other organizations. Founded in 1998, edgefactory is a multi-disciplined creative resource offering an array of services from creative writing, video production, graphic design, 3D imaging, original music and technical support.
"We are the award winning, 2010 EMMY® NOMINATED, edgefactory OMNIMEDIA, we are committed to providing world class convention and corporate video production services at affordable prices. Everything that we do, we do with energy, emotion, and, of course, edge".
I will never forget the impression I got from these four men; Brian Cole, Keven Leonard, Ryan Haanstraa and Carl Pfeiffer, on my first interview. I was not only impressed by their experiences and skills but more impressed by their very apparent energy and passion they felt for their work. The positive energy I felt was contagious. This group of people clearly had their inividual "egde" about them. They are all very unique and yet, they manage to compliment one another beautifully. They are fresh and innovated. It only took a moment to know that I wanted to be part of their team.
In my short time with this respectable group of individuals, I have learned that they are eco-friendly in all that they do. I have learned that they are always willing to find a way to work on something they believe in even when things may not seem feasable. I learned that they LOVE what they do. They are a well connected and highly creative team with much "energy, emotion, and edge".
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Talk Radio Producer Jose Zouain talks Entertainment and Negotiation
I'd like to introduce you to a good friend of mine and former co-worker, Jose Zouain of Zouain Entertainment and also known as "Zouain" from the hit talk radio show, "The Shannon Burke Show". He is currently producer to "The Ray Junior Show". I have watched this young man take different roles professionally and have been impressed by his people skills. Jose has to interact with all sorts of people daily. He has managed to own and successfully run his own entertainment business as well as produce radio shows. For this reason I have decided to interview Jose and see what he can tell us about his experiences in the entertainment industry as well as discuss negotiation.
"From the time I was four years old I knew I wanted to be in the entertainment industry at some point. I remember standing in front of crowds at a very young age and speaking to them very easily as I do today". These are the words of Talk Radio Producer, Jose Zouain. He reminices, "my first taste in entertainment came in the form of an internet radio station called PowerZone Radio. A guy approached me during my freshman year of college because he said I had a good voice and good knowledge of the format that he was broadcasting in this station. He taught me the basics of voiceover and Disc Jockey work and I worked for free for a few months while I was a freshman in college".
"From the time I was four years old I knew I wanted to be in the entertainment industry at some point. I remember standing in front of crowds at a very young age and speaking to them very easily as I do today". These are the words of Talk Radio Producer, Jose Zouain. He reminices, "my first taste in entertainment came in the form of an internet radio station called PowerZone Radio. A guy approached me during my freshman year of college because he said I had a good voice and good knowledge of the format that he was broadcasting in this station. He taught me the basics of voiceover and Disc Jockey work and I worked for free for a few months while I was a freshman in college".
From there on, Zouain was approached by the largest DJ company in Orlando, White Rose Productions, to do work as an emcee in the orlando area for high end events. After four months of training, he received his first paycheck as an entertainer and from then on he knew for a fact that entertainment was the industry for him. While working as an emcee, his interest in being a disk jockey greatly appealed to him. He then began to DJ for celebrity weddings and high end parties all over the south east. All the while, he was doing full time work as an I.T. Some may call it a blessing in disguise, I believe that Zouain took charge of his life after getting laid off; he decided to pursue his life's passion working full time in talk radio.
"I approached a radio station and I was able to learn quickly enough that they entrusted their flagship show to me". Zouain expresses proudly, "I learned a ton there and through that networked with some very powerful and influential people in the industry". Since then, he has produced for a number of different shows, doing everything from booking guests, voicing, producing commercials, to on air comedy bits and commentary. I have personally had the pleasure of seeing him play all of these roles. Believe it or not, but we all play roles-often different roles; we either play them out or society places us within in them. This is something that can be used as leverage when negotiating. Reason being, we become experts in our roles and the way in which we play them influences how others perceive us. How we are perceived, can determine the outcome of closing a deal or settling a negotiation.
I asked Jose what advice he would give to those pursuing the industry. He responds, "To make it in the industry is a two fold equation. You have to know the job you’re applying for well. If you don’t, the networking you do could easily hurt you. You can become the person who talks a good game but doesn’t know what they’re doing. What separates an amateur from a professional is keeping your word". Jose and I can both agree that being knowledgeable is the best way to win a negotiation. When one is familiar with the work, one immediatley acquires respect and crediability. This is mainly due to the confidence a person has when he or she is certain of a subject matter. Always do your homework and stay abreast in order to better succeed.
He continues, "The other piece of that equation is to network. Network with your fellow classmates, coworkers, and anyone you come in contact with in the industry. The people you sit next to in class or work with you are people who you will more than likely run into in the future. Most branches of the entertainment industry are small. Keep that in mind when encountering anyone". Jose is absolutel right! In any business market-especially that of the entertainment industry, networking is key to good business. When one networks, one tends to affiliate themselves with cetain groups or chapters. As we network, we tend to form small and growing social enviroments of a particular group of people. This is how we resource and identify ourselves amongst others with similar interests. This is also a tool often used in negotiation. One should identify with the opponent and agree on a middle ground. The outcome of a good negotiation is always beneficial to both parties.
Zouain leaves us with one more important tip, "The Entertainment industry is one that it takes a special type of person to enter. You don’t get into it because you want to get rich. You get into it because you LOVE it. If you get rich in the process so be it, but I wouldn’t count on it".
**** I want to personally thank Jose Zouain for taking the time to enlighten us a bit more on the world of entertainment as well as provide us with a few tips on negotiation. ****
He continues, "The other piece of that equation is to network. Network with your fellow classmates, coworkers, and anyone you come in contact with in the industry. The people you sit next to in class or work with you are people who you will more than likely run into in the future. Most branches of the entertainment industry are small. Keep that in mind when encountering anyone". Jose is absolutel right! In any business market-especially that of the entertainment industry, networking is key to good business. When one networks, one tends to affiliate themselves with cetain groups or chapters. As we network, we tend to form small and growing social enviroments of a particular group of people. This is how we resource and identify ourselves amongst others with similar interests. This is also a tool often used in negotiation. One should identify with the opponent and agree on a middle ground. The outcome of a good negotiation is always beneficial to both parties.
Zouain leaves us with one more important tip, "The Entertainment industry is one that it takes a special type of person to enter. You don’t get into it because you want to get rich. You get into it because you LOVE it. If you get rich in the process so be it, but I wouldn’t count on it".
**** I want to personally thank Jose Zouain for taking the time to enlighten us a bit more on the world of entertainment as well as provide us with a few tips on negotiation. ****
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