CREW CALL: Shifting Gears (High Point, Archdale, Elkin)

NOTE: THIS IS FOR CREW ONLY.

The family sports comedy centered on dirt track racing, Shifting Gears, written by  R. Keith Harris, is now accepting NC film crew resumes. Please send resumes to:  Mattz@shiftinggearsmovie.com with your crew position in the subject line.

THIS IS FOR CREW ONLY. NOT FOR EXTRAS.  Local casting and Extras casting directors have not yet been announced.

Shooting will take place in the High Point, Archdale, Elkin area. Production begins March 22.

SHIFTING GEARS – Feature Film

Status: March 22nd
Producers: Lauren Moews Vilchik, Matthew Rhoads Zboyovski
Director: Jason Winn
Writer: R. Keith Harris
CREW RESUMES: Mattz@shiftinggearsmovie.com

ABOUT:

Tom Williamson is a hard working manager at the retail super-store Quality-Mark. He started out at Q-Mark in the stock room after high school and is finally poised to receive a promotion to Southeastern Regional Manager – or so he thinks. Due to his lack of education, Tom is passed up for the promotion. To add insult to injury, the company wants to relocate him and his family… again.

Tragedy strikes further when Tom receives news of his estranged father’s death. Now Tom has to decide between uprooting his family to stay in the same rat race, or face his past and move the family back to his hometown. Tom and his wife, Carol, decide starting a ‘family business’ is the way to go, so they pack up their restless teenage son Jeremy and free-spirited ten-year-old Stephy, and move to the small town of Bainesville, NC.

Clem Williamson was a brawler and small town dirt track racer. He didn’t have much, but he was a heck of a race car driver. He won the deed to an old service station from the local rich kid, Conrad Baines, in a race some years earlier that had some personal matters at stake. He left the service station to his son Tom in his will with hopes it may salvage some sense of peace from their broken relationship.

Unfortunately for Tom, the terms were not free and clear. Now the title to the property is on the line again and the service station is set to be sold at public auction. Conrad has his eyes set on the old property in the name of “economic development” –he wants to knock the garage down and build a Q-Mark.

In a last ditch effort to restore the balance, Tom joins forces with Clem’s former teammate, “Dirty Harry” Hawkins, and enters the Dirt Track Grand National to try and win the money they need to save the service station and his family.

Shifting Gears gearing up for production in NC

The family sports comedy centered on dirt track racing, Shifting Gears is well…gearing up for production. Magnified Productions along with Tonic Films is looking for a March 16th start date in Central NC. Looks like a fun movie to be a part of.  If you are wondering  why the name R. Keith Harris looks familiar, you might be an Under the Dome cast/crew member.  He played Peter Shumway (Julia’s dead husband). If you worked on Adrenaline, he played Marcus. Not sure about the budget or a crew call as of yet, nor who is casting.  I will keep you posted.

SHIFTING GEARS – Feature Film
Status: March 16th
Producers: Lauren Moews Vilchik, Matthew Rhoads Zboyovski
Director: Jason Winn
Writer: R. Keith Harris

 About the Movie

Tom Williamson is a hard working manager at the retail super-store Quality-Mark. He started out at Q-Mark in the stock room after high school and is finally poised to receive a promotion to Southeastern Regional Manager – or so he thinks. Due to his lack of education, Tom is passed up for the promotion. To add insult to injury, the company wants to relocate him and his family… again.

Tragedy strikes further when Tom receives news of his estranged father’s death. Now Tom has to decide between uprooting his family to stay in the same rat race, or face his past and move the family back to his hometown. Tom and his wife, Carol, decide starting a ‘family business’ is the way to go, so they pack up their restless teenage son Jeremy and free-spirited ten-year-old Stephy, and move to the small town of Bainesville, NC.

Clem Williamson was a brawler and small town dirt track racer. He didn’t have much, but he was a heck of a race car driver. He won the deed to an old service station from the local rich kid, Conrad Baines, in a race some years earlier that had some personal matters at stake. He left the service station to his son Tom in his will with hopes it may salvage some sense of peace from their broken relationship.

Unfortunately for Tom, the terms were not free and clear. Now the title to the property is on the line again and the service station is set to be sold at public auction. Conrad has his eyes set on the old property in the name of “economic development” –he wants to knock the garage down and build a Q-Mark.

In a last ditch effort to restore the balance, Tom joins forces with Clem’s former teammate, “Dirty Harry” Hawkins, and enters the Dirt Track Grand National to try and win the money they need to save the service station and his family.

SHIFTING GEARS WEB SITE

Dear Sleepy Hollow Crew. Love Sheila.

Dear Sleepy Hollow Crew,

For months, I knew this day would come. The day we would say goodbye to a television show that employed hundreds of Wilmington, NC residents. Put money in the pockets of so many small businesses and brought so many fans of the show to this great city of ours. I’ve met many and took them around the town where they spent so many of their dollars here. I am sure many of you remember me sneaking them by and introducing them to you.

I tried my best, but even my best wasn’t good enough last year to educate the narrow minds of the North Carolina House and the Senate. My words fell on deaf ears. Some said we don’t need the incentives to keep the productions coming. Some said, it’s just not worth it, it costs the state. I urge them to ask the small businesses across the state how they are doing today. Ask them a week or two from now. A month from now.

They should ask you what your plans are. I’ve already said goodbye to so many of your peers and I know you have too. I’ve seen the moving trucks pulling out of their driveways, For Sale signs go up on their front lawns. I’ve seen families split apart, leaving for South Carolina, Pennsylvania, Louisiana and Georgia leaving their spouses and children behind to find work. Now, I am afraid it will be happening to you too. Some of you will stick around, but we will be saying good-bye to many of you.

Living in their own bubble, the NCGA doesn’t see this nor do they wish to. They only see and hear what they want. There is of course a few exceptions of course. Hamilton, Davis, Iller, Lee, and a few others, but there are not enough who wish to open their eyes to see what is unfolding before them.

I am grateful to Bill Vassar and the Cooneys along with a few other key people for saving Under the Dome. If you had any idea what they had to do to keep our CBS show here, it would blow your mind. I am sure though many of you know.

It is all out of our hands at this point. All we have is hope. Hope that our legislators who do truly believe in our film industry will really shake thing up in the Long Session in such away that it wakes up those who are clueless in the General Assembly.

Even though my heart is ridiculously heavy right now, I am holding on to that hope more than ever because you beautiful crew members are such a huge part of what made this state shine so bright. Your talent, your creativity, your teamwork and your undying energy has put this state on the map. You gave us incredible bragging rights, and you know how much I just LOVE to brag about you! Our small town charm, beautiful beaches and mountains were spread across the big and small screens because of your reputation of excellence. But we all know this is a business. And businesses will go where they get the most bang for their buck. And of course the slap in the face they call a $10 million grant just won’t cut it. The lights are now dim, but I don’t believe we will go into darkness. I have to believe that.

I love you Sleepy Hollow crew. You are truly one of the best teams in the world. Your synergy is impeccable and your love and passion for your job is undeniable. Wherever you go, I hope you know I am always thinking of you and already look forward to seeing you on a Wilmington set again soon.

All the love in the world from your biggest fan,
Sheila

 

Sleepy Hollow’s move to Atlanta CONFIRMED

Well, we’ve been talking about it for at least two months now.  We knew in October that Sleepy Hollow was not going to stay for a third season.  Vancouver was mentioned, but for the last couple months, Atlanta was the front runner. Even though no official word has been said in regards to a third season, Sleepy Hollow folks headed to Atlanta and scouted the area on Friday.

Now, the Star News is reporting that what we already knew to be true is confirmed.

Fox Television Group chairman and CEO Dana Walden said if it’s renewed for a third season, “Sleepy Hollow” will move production from Wilmington following the demise of the North Carolina film tax credit program.

Thanks NCGA.  Thanks Governor McCrory.

READ STAR NEWS ARTICLE NOW!

 

North Carolina’s Small Business for Film is LIVE!

Thanks to the collaborate efforts of small local businesses including: Port City Signs & Graphics, Lanier Property Group, Julia’s Florist, Strickland’s Window Coverings, Homewood Suites Wilmington, Parker-Brinson Communications and Bon’s Eye Marketing, there is now one web site for all small businesses in North Carolina to come together to keep NC Film.  Their main goal is to create awareness in regards to the film incentives — that this is a small business issue, not just a film industry issue.  Perhaps the legislators were not clear on that in the short session just a few months ago.

When we removed the 25% film incentive, it not only wiped away crew jobs in the state, but as this organization points out,  it removed revenue and jobs from local small businesses as well.

The organization is working dilligently to keep the film incentive alive.  According to SmallBusinessForFilm.com:

The group was established in response to concern that legislators do not realize the impact that the film industry has on small businesses throughout the state, and is working to raise awareness about this issue. The mission is to organize small businesses throughout North Carolina that recognize the positive impact the film industry has on generating jobs and revenue in our state. Small Business for Film is working to preserve the only small business incentive in North Carolina–an incentive that attracts the film industry to North Carolina, giving small businesses the opportunity to thrive.

Again, taken from SmallBusinessForFilm.com, some of the small businesses the film industry directly impacts include:

• Printers and Sign Manufacturers
• Florists/Plants sales
• Restaurants and Caterers
• Hotels
• Window Coverings
• Event Rental Services (tents, etc.)
• Photographers
• Videographers
• Physicians
• Camera and Lighting Equipment
• Heavy Machinery
• Car/Van Rentals
• Security and Locksmiths
• Hardware/Lumberyards/Paint
• Medics/Police/Firefighters
• Antique Dealers
• Teachers/Tutors
• Marine Services
• Artists
• Calligraphers
• Garbage/Recycling
• Mobile Restrooms
• Aerial Services

If you are a small business in North Carolina that benefits from the film and television industry, please join the other small businesses in continued support and become a member.

SmallBusinessForFilm.com

LIKE THEM ON FACEBOOK

THE WILMYWOOD DAILY – 01/12/2015 NC SFX MUA on Syfy’s Face Off tomorrow, more projects for SC.

North Carolina’s own Special Effects makeup artist Gregory Hewett will be on Syfy’s Face Off tomorrow night during a two part 8th season premiere @ 9 p.m. Greg is a Supply native who now lives in Charlotte.

I caught up with Greg this morning and I asked him what some of his favorite moments from 2014 were. He had a hard time answering because there were just too many to count. After twisting his arm, however, he said, “Working on It’s Supernatural, conducting a sold out FX class at Spooky Empire as a guest speaker, and participating in the national Chairi Walk which made over $15,000 in donations for finding a cure all made in one weekend!”  You rock Greg and we can’t wait to see you on Face Off tomorrow night! Set your DVRs folks!

Hunter over at the Star News has a nice story on Greg.  READ NOW

With Sleepy Hollow wrapping next week, the feature film Bolden will be the only project shooting in North Carolina (unless you count the two reality shows that only hire a handful of crew.)

It’s mind blowing that South Carolina, a state with no film infrastructure, can land project after project. Yeah, go ahead, chime in after that statement. I could go for days. So, if you’re up to traveling for work, this is the latest scoop in regards to South Carolina. (PS – The SC Gov Nikki Haley gets it! )

Most of you already know, but in case you missed it, Danny McBride and Jody Hill’s HBO series Vice Principals set up offices last week in Charleston. Two days after I announced it, the SC Media had a field day with that news.  They are shooting 18 episodes. Our local boy David Brightbill’s got this one, so all you Homeland/Secrets and Lies folks, you probably already know that too.

The psychological thriller Faceless has set up shop in Charleston and are projected to begin production on or around February 15th. Marcel Sarmiento is directing.

I am also hearing Robert Kirkman’s Outcast is going to series. They shot the pilot last month in Rock Hill, SC for Cinemax. That will be good for the Charlotte (Banshee/Paper Towns) crew as they I heard they will stay in Rock Hill.  As soon as I get more details, I will let you know.

ABOUT OUTCAST VIA DEADLINE:
Reg E. Cathey (St. Vincent), Julia Crockett (The Absence), Wrenn Schmidt (Boardwalk Empire)  and Kip Pardue (Ray Donovan) have been cast opposite Patrick Fugit in Cinemax’s new exorcism drama Outcast, from The Walking Dead executive producer Robert Kirkman. Based on a comic by Kirkman and artist Paul Azaceta, Outcast follows follows Kyle Barnes (Fugit), a young man who has been plagued by possession since he was a child. Now an adult, he embarks on a journey to find answers, but what he uncovers could mean the end of life on Earth as we know it.

 

LITTLE ACCIDENTS – Wilmington Red Carpet Premiere

LITTLE ACCIDENTS – A Sundance Selection
Wilmington Red Carpet Premiere
REGAL MAYFAIRE STADIUM 16
900 Town Center Drive, Wilmington, NC 28405
THURSDAY, JANUARY 15 2015
6:30 PM — 9:00 PM
GET TICKETS NOW (Mayfaire will NOT be handling ticket sales.)

100% of proceeds benefit BEST BUDDIES CLUB at Coastal Christian High School.  The fabulous and adorable Beau Wright will be in attendance.  Beau played James in the award winning drama.

SYNOPSIS: When a teenage boy goes missing in a small town already devastated by a fatal mining accident, three strangers find themselves drawn together in a tangle of secrets, lies, and the collective grief of the community. Reeling from the disappearance of her son, Diane (Elizabeth Banks) finds herself drifting away from her husband (Josh Lucas), a mining company executive whose role in the accident has made her family the prime target for the town’s anger. When she forms a dangerous bond with the sole survivor of the disaster (Boyd Holbrook), truths will be uncovered that threaten to tear apart the few remaining threads holding the town together in this intense drama from writer-director Sara Colangelo.

THE WILMYWOOD DAILY – 01/08/2015 LMGA recognizes NC Crew members!

Tammy might have been nominated for a Razzie, but it took in over $100 million at the worldwide box office. And we got some congratulations to give out to some NC Film peeps! The Location Managers Guild of America is recognizing our locals Mike Hewett and Lori Russell for Outstanding Locations in a Contemporary Film for the comedy. The awards ceremony will take place in Beverly Hills, March 7th! Awesome job Mike and Lori, but then again, we expect nothing less! Woo Hoo!

Mike was the location manager and Lori was the key assistant location manager. The LMGA only allows two people to be nominated and not the whole location department / team, but kudos goes out to the entire department!

And speaking of Tammy, last night at the People’s Choice Awards, Melissa McCarthy won for Favorite Comedic Movie Actress! Congrats lady!

THE WILMYWOOD DAILY – 01/07/2015 New Production chooses the other Carolina

Getty Images

So, Remember when Eastbound and Down was coming to a close and Danny McBride and Jody Hill announced a new show that was in development. Vice Principals. Yep – well before the film incentive wars, they were undoubtedly going to shoot it here in North Carolina. They even scouted the area for the show. After we lost the film incentive battle, however, they were uncertain as to where they would open up offices. Well, now we think we know. My sources are telling me Danny McBride and Jody Hill’s team have opened up offices in Charleston for 18 episodes of the series. This is a show, MANY North Carolina Film Crew members were waiting for. As in hundreds. The General Assembly’s Long Session begins one week from today.

Under the Dome is just a few weeks away from opening up offices. I was told they will begin production on or around March 9th.

Sleepy Hollow is filming at Steven’s Hardware on Dawson St. today.  In the ratings, Monday night’s episode ticked up!  According to TVByTheNumbers.com, Sleepy Hollow garnered a 1.6 adults 18-49 rating, up 7 percent from a 1.5 for its most recent original episode.

Bolden is back from their holiday hiatus. They shoot in Rocky Point today. Marty is still looking for 2 more African American women, ages 18 – mid 20s’s to attend a fitting TODAY before noon, for work on Jan 21st. This will be for a night club scene.

If you fit this description, are available the above mentioned dates, please let her know ASAP.

Pay rate $112.00 per filming day + a $30.00 bump for your wardrobe fitting. Location: Rocky Point, N.C. (25 min outside of Wilmington).

*African American females, ages 18 – mid 20s, dress sizes 2, 4, 6, or 8. Must have a look that can match the 1905 time period (no hair highlights, visible tattoos, no ear gauges, braces, gels, etc… hair & nails must be natural looking).

Instructions for submitting for these background actor roles:

#1. Create an account on www.makescenes.com, using the activation code, “buddy”. Make sure your picture uploads. If you have trouble, resize your photo to a smaller size, and try again.

#2, email us at: Boldenwilmington@gmail.com, (once your makescenes account is active) with the heading, “CLUB SCENE FEMALE”.

THE WILMYWOOD DAILY – 01/06/2015 – With new grant in place, NC is only attracting Reality Shows

With the new grant program in place with a $10 million cap, the only productions North Carolina is attracting right now are reality shows. Digging through Production Weekly and other sources, there is nothing else on the radar for NC at the moment. I will keep you posted. I am grateful there are some job openings. So, thanks to these production companies for coming.

National Geographic Channel’s Wicked Tuna North vs. South is back in North Carolina. They will be shooting in the Outer Banks from January through April.

Also gearing up for the month of January is Antonio Sabato Jr’s Fix it & Finish It. The former models hit repair show will be fixing up Charlotte for the month of January.

The good news is yesterday as expected, The New Hanover County Commission passed a resolution in support of the film industry during their first meeting of the new year. We have 8 days until the Long Session begins in the General Assembly.

Sleepy Hollow is back downtown. Some fun prop gun fire is expected to sound off today.

Bolden will be back in action tomorrow.

ICYMI: The Charlotte shot feature film Tusk, is out on Blu-ray (plus Digital HD) and DVD (plus Digital) It was written and directed by Kevin Smith (Clerks) and stars Michael Parks, Justin Long , Haley Joel Osment (AThe Sixth Sense), and Genesis Rodriguez. Variety says Tusk is “Kevin Smith’s very best work.” Sweet!