2010 JanuaryRSS Feed
Two Journeys: Producer Ralph Winter on the Spiritual Influences in The Book of Eli and Avatar
Recently took in two movies, BOOK OF ELI and AVATAR. One ostensibly religious, the other more vague.
BOOK OF ELI, set in a post-apocalyptic world, shows a hero driven against all odds to fulfill his mission. Not as much of an emotional journey as it could have been, except in approved sound bites that Christians might [...]
Battling to Remember the Great War
To documentarian and friend of Compass David DeJonge, Frank Buckles is a cultural icon and historical gatekeeper, a man whose story demands to be told. At nearly 109, Buckles is America’s last surviving veteran of World War I (WWI). Since 2006, DeJonge has been fighting to tell his story.
He first met the centenarian while documenting [...]
Elixir Alert
Thank you all for your support as Elixir continues to grow. We appreciate that you are sharing your thoughts on our new endeavor.
As we continue to shape the way Elixir is delivered to you, the audience, we want to keep you updated as tweaks are made. In an effort to maintain a more active and [...]
CFA Exceeds Fundraising Goal
It’s official. The numbers are in. CFA exceeded its 2009 $100,000 matching grant and raised a total of $100,140. All told, that puts Compass’ official total of funds raised at $200,140.
We’re really good at mental math.
This is good news on two fronts. First, this money allows Compass to continue pushing forward. Already several new pieces [...]
Banging out the Gun: An Intern’s Experience
Compass called me and told me they had and internship opportunity in Grand Rapids. The next morning I found myself in the production office of The Gun, starring 50 Cent and Val Kilmer.
I was assigned to intern in the Locations Department. Immediately, I was introduced to all the department heads. I committed their names to [...]
“Rarified” Air - Justin Godley Reviews Up in the Air
How do you de-Clooney George Clooney?
From Clooney’s work with Soderbergh, back to his stint on ER, the man oozes charisma and charm. He epitomizes calm, cool and collected.
Director Jason Reitman (Juno, Thank You for Smoking) knew exactly what he wanted from the star in his latest film, Up In the Air. Luckily for us, it [...]
ARRI Zeiss Master Primes, Gorilla Pictures, and You
We at Gorilla Pictures are proud to announce the recent acquisition of a set of ARRI Zeiss Master Primes: an 18, 25, 35, 50, 75, and 100 mm. The lenses were purchased by an entrepreneur here in Grand Rapids who is encouraged by young creative talent and wants to see everyone in West Michigan working [...]
WMFVA Member’s Party - 01/22/10
All Film and Video Production Community within earshot of Grand Rapids! This Friday, January 22nd, The West Michigan Film Video Alliance (www.wmfva.org) is celebrating five years of service at its annual membership party. Come on out to the 3rd floor of McFadden’s in downtown GR from 6 - 11 PM for the networking event of [...]
SAG Awards Viewing Party Downtown GR
The Detroit Branch of Screen Actors Guild (SAG) is hosting a SAG Awards viewing party this Saturday, January 23 at Peppino’s Downtown Grille (130 Ionia SE, 49503). All are invited to attend.
The party starts at 7 PM. Appetizers will available from until 8 p.m. on Peppino’s Upper Deck. There will also be a no host [...]
