Article By: Maria Shamkalian
PAFIA Vice-Chair

How did you come up with the idea and how did you get it going?
About four years ago, I came across an article about a skip tracer who became a skip maker by using the internet to hide his clients’ digital footprint and thought it would make a great series. However, I was working on other projects and I forgot about it until 2015. Once I decided to make this my next project, it took me 2 years to break the story and another to cast the right actors.

What were some challenges that you have encountered?
The two biggest challenges for me has been scheduling and money. A lot of the episodes are made based on the availability of the actors. There was a 16-month gap between Season 1 and 2, several of the actors are either no longer in the area, no longer acting or have moved on to other projects. In regards to money, while many of the cast and crew were fine working for free, I decided not to go that route for Season 2. This was one of the main factors for the 16-month gap as I wanted to pay my actors more than gas money for Season 2. Even though the budget for Season 2 was larger than Season 1, it was still relatively low and I was upfront about the budget with every crew members that I contacted. There were a few no’s but surprisingly there were quite a few yes’s.

The burning question: how did you arrange the budget?
Mostly through a combination of savings, crowdfunding... and selling the occasional expensive Funko Pop!

What are the plans for distribution?
The first two seasons are currently available on YouTube, however the third season will only be available on Amazon Prime.

Care to share all the amazing accomplishments, awards and selections?
Since its inception in 2016, Herrings has been selected by nearly two dozen film and web festival, including Seoul Web Fest in 2019. The show has also received numerous nominations and over a dozen awards, including: Best Cast, Best Actor for both Dax Richardson and David Ogrodowski, Best Drama (2017 Baltimore New Media Web Fest), Best Supporting Actress for Mia Park (2017 Baltimore New Media Web Fest), Best Director (NJ Web Fest 2019) as well as Best Thriller (2019 Miami Web Fest).

Which film festivals do you suggest submitting to?
While I wasn’t able to attend every festival Herrings was selected , the festivals I attended and found the most engaging and informative are New Jersey Web Fest, Miami Web Fest, Baltimore Web Fest, Minnesota Web Fest and Pop Up Anthology.

Why did you choose to film in PA and what do you love the most about working in Pennsylvania?
A lot of the storylines in Herrings were based on real-life incidents that took place in Philadelphia, so it only made sense to film there. The thing I love about working in Pennsylvania is that how much filmmaking is embraced here. Not just in Philadelphia, but also Easton, Allentown, Pottstown, Altoona and Pittsburgh.

What are some of your favorite shooting locations in Pennsylvania
While the show is set in Philadelphia, I would have to say Easton has become my favorite filming location as the people are very friendly, reasonable and engaged in the filmmaking process. In addition, areas of Easton feature close enough approximations of locations and establishments in Philadelphia.

How did you all get started in the film industry?
Well in a nutshell, I got my start in 2010 when I created a screenwriting group called the Dysfunctional Screenwriters Society, where once a month we had live table reads of screenplays written by local writers, read by local actors. I ran the group for five successful years but after working with a couple of filmmakers on their projects, I decided to take the plunge and direct my first short film, “Relationship Status” in 2012. That’s when I officially “caught the bug” and subsequently wrote and directed three more short films for the 21-Day Film Competition in 2012, 2013 and 2014.

What do you love the most about your job?
Working with the actors, getting the best out of their performance and seeing the words on the page come to life.

What is your most memorable, most awkward, or funniest on set story?
Oh that’s an easy one. Okay, so during filming of season one there was a scene set in a park and I happened to find the perfect spot, which is a walking trail and right across the street from several rowhomes. Now since the walking trail didn’t have an address, I used the address of the rowhouse directly across the street from the trail and I made it abundantly clear that the address was not where we were filming. Well, unfortunately, Dante, one of the Production Assistants didn’t read that part and when he showed up, he not only went to the rowhouse, but upon seeing that the front door was opened, went inside the house! Suffice to say, the owner was a more than a little freaked out and a few minutes later, we were paid a visit from a very confused but very understanding police officer.

Do you have any upcoming Pennsylvania-based projects?
Besides filming season three of Herrings, I’m co-starring in a horror comedy called “Batsh!t” that was filmed last year in Pittsburgh and is currently slated for release October 2020.

PAFIA has been working hard on increasing the film tax credit in Pennsylvania and bringing more film work to our local crew and talent, but we must all unite to really make a difference. What can you tell our elected officials about the importance of PA film industry and the difference it has made in your life?
If it wasn’t for the acting community in Philadelphia taking a chance on me ten year ago, there would be no Dysfunctional Screenwriters Society and there would definitely be no Herrings. There are so many talented filmmakers, production staff and actors throughout PA and it’s ridiculous to force them to relocate to other states when that money could easily be spent here.

Article By: Maria Shamkalian
PAFIA Vice-Chair

What is your most recent success and how did you accomplish it?
The last feature I worked on had to be turned around in 2.5 weeks, which is an extremely tight deadline for a 90 minute narrative feature when you’re handling all aspects of the audio post. There were editorial issues and my assistant and I received the project 3 weeks late without synced production sound and missing several shots and almost all the VFX. While it’s not unusual to receive a post-audio project in less than perfect circumstances, it is pretty insane to turn around a 90 minute film in 2.5 weeks. I had my assistant work on the basic dialog editing for each reel while I developed the sound design, communicated with the composer about where cues were going to be, recorded and synced Foley, and later mixed the dialog as well as completed a final 5.1 mix. We met our deadline in time for the premiere and the studio exec and investors were very pleased. There’s still more work to be done to prep the film for the international market but that first phase was intense.

How did you get started in the film industry?
Like a lot of sound people in the film industry I gradually transitioned over from the music industry as illegal downloads and streaming became the norm and ate away recording budgets. I’ve been working in audio since 1995 but in TV and film since 2005. It started with helping out friends with their shorts. Eventually word spread and requests to work on TV and film projects outnumbered music projects. It took a while to develop a solid client base because many people around Philly thought of me as just a “music guy”. That gradually changed the longer I worked exclusively in film and became friends with some very talented Philly-based production sound mixers.

Why do you choose to work in PA and what do you love the most about working in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania has a little of everything. I can live in a diverse urban environment but be in the Amish countryside or the Pocono mountains in a little over an hour. The ability to quickly transition between these environments make the state conducive to a wide array of projects, which helps to keep work interesting.

What are some of your favorite shooting locations in Pennsylvania?
I work with a lot of LA and NY based production companies. I’m usually the only local on set so I become the defacto ambassador for Pennsylvania, which I love. My favorite places to film are in Central-PA, specifically Centre County and the rolling hills of the farms as well as in the state forests north of there. I did a feature called “The Lost Within” (directed by Steve Gibson) many years ago around the Lewisburg area and it’s beautiful. It was shot on farmlands, an old motel near Lock Haven, in a newspaper office in Sunbury, and a trestle bridge outside Williamsport. It’s a great film that also showcases the wide variety of scenery in PA.

What do you love the most about your job?
I especially like the variety of projects that I get to work on and the variety of people I get to meet on those projects. Within any given week I could be working on a documentary about water conservation in rural PA, an interview with an Eagles player, a true crime docu-series, and doing sound design on someone’s feature. All these jobs bring different personalities, work methodology, and unique personal backgrounds. I graduated from PSU with a B.A. in Anthropology and I’ve always been fascinated with other people and their stories.

What is your most memorable, most awkward, or funniest on set story?
As a production sound mixer you often hear things you can’t unhear. If you’re not careful and diligent while working you can hear some pretty awkward things. I’m a vault both professionally and personally. When you mic someone up you have both a moral and professional obligation to be discreet with anything you accidentally hear off camera. I turn faders down anytime someone isn’t on screen but occasionally you catch something very awkward. I usually ignore it and keep it to myself but every once in a while I’ll hear something that I think may embarrass the person saying it and I’ll discreetly remind them that they are wearing a hot mic. Everyone appreciates when you respect their privacy and look out for them.

Do you have any upcoming Pennsylvania-based projects?
I think the next PA-based project is sound design and general audio post for some corporate videos for the Hershey Entertainment & Resorts Company. I’m also in talks with a director about doing post on a horror feature that takes place in and around the abandoned town of Centralia, PA and in a large cave around that town. I’m excited about that one.

PAFIA has been working hard on increasing the film tax credit in Pennsylvania and bringing more film work to our local crew and talent, but we must all unite to really make a difference. What can you tell our elected officials about the importance of PA film industry and the difference it has made in your life?
I just wrapped on a PA-based feature that benefited from the tax credit, which was filmed in Reading. The credit not only provided the opportunity for a month of uninterrupted work but it literally put money in the hands of my local community. Productions spend a lot of money in the locations they shoot in, way beyond just the wages of local crew members. Everything from dry cleaning, catering, hotels, Uber drivers, permits, location renting, private security, etc., it all gets hired locally. Providing a larger tax credit will attract more productions to Pennsylvania, which will literally put money back into the hands of local residents. The tax credit pays for itself many times over.

What is your advice for the aspiring actors and filmmakers? Some steps to take? Some mistakes to avoid?
There’s no magic secret to success in this industry. It’s all about just working hard and treating other people well. I could be the best sound mixer around but if people don’t enjoy spending a long day with me then I wouldn’t get hired. The best advice I could give is to take pride in your work and always be mindful of what other people are going through. The people you are working with can become some of your closest friends.

What are some good strategies to find more gigs?
Finding future work is just as much a part of your job as working a gig. Figure out how many hours you want to work per week and treat each of those work days seriously. It’s also a good idea to find the professionals who have worked on projects you love and start making connections with them and their circles. Overtime, your name will start to get passed around and more jobs will come.

What are some of the most valuable lessons that you have learned about this industry and wish you knew earlier?
The best advice that I could give is to be humble and remember that it’s not a race, it’s a marathon. Figure out what “success” specifically means to you and devise a plan to gradually get there by working hard everyday.

What is your favorite film shot in Pennsylvania?
Trading Places. Though not entirely shot in Philly it’s one of Murphy’s best comedies and I love the scenes in Rittenhouse Park.

What is your favorite project that you worked on?
Hmmm, I’m not sure about my favorite project of all time but a recent one that I absolutely loved working on was a documentary for the Canadian Broadcasting Company called “Rare Bird Alert”, which was about Birding and Birders. Interestingly, we spent a lot of time interviewing people about the relationship between bird watching and punk rock. I had no idea there was a connection but I found it fascinating. Birders in general are fascinating people.

What is your biggest aspiration in this industry?
I love what I do and feel very fortunate to be able to make a living doing it. As a freelancer, I don’t always get the chance to pick what I work on. My goal each year is to continue carving out a path where more and more of my work are documentary projects on the lives of musicians, social change, and nature. Even when the job isn’t my cup of tea I still enjoy the work and the people I get to work with. Being able to support myself and my wife by doing what I love is a great feeling.

What would be the best way for our local PA cast and crew to submit to your upcoming projects?
Anybody needing professional production and post-production audio services should check out my website to learn more about me and my work. If you think I’m a good fit for your project then I’m just a phone call (or email) away. I can be reached at www.nadasoundstudio.com.

Article By: Maria Shamkalian
PAFIA Vice-Chair

What is your most recent success and how did you accomplish it?
Being an older actress the opportunities for leading roles are more limited however at the end of 2019 I was offered the lead in the short (80s style) slasher film called Pizzaman made in South Philadelphia by a local team of female filmmakers (Rosalie Kicks, Katie McBrown)

Rosalie is also the creative force behind a movie review magazine called Moviejawn...See Moviejawn.com.   I was offered the role based on my audition tape.

How did you get started in the film industry?
When I decided to dip my toe back in the acting waters I attended a New York weekly workshop lead by acting, directing veteran Bruce Orenstein (Saturday night fever, the Great Wallendas, Vamperifica). He encouraged me to get headshots and start auditioning for student films and then branch out to independent films. It was very exciting as I had only done theatrical productions before that.  I found a new creative outlet and loved it.

Why do you choose to work in PA and what do you love the most about working in Pennsylvania?
 I am a native Philadelphian and love when I get work in Pennsylvania —- then all my energy goes towards the production and not traveling. Also I find there’s a great network of filmmakers , actors and crew in the area and a wonderful camaraderie on the projects I’ve been lucky enough to book here.

What are some of your favorite shooting locations in Pennsylvania?
I did a commercial at a resort in the Poconos. It was beautiful. I’ve also narrated a reenactment TV show in Lancaster and found that to be a great filming area.  I was so surprised when I was able to procure a courtroom location at the law offices of former colleagues and it turned out the space had also been used once before for the movie Trading Places.  Philadelphia has some wonderful historic buildings and Fairmount Park is said to be the Champs Élysées of the US .  Who can deny that the Art Museum steps make a wonderful backdrop.

But my favorite Location was my own South Philadelphia row house which was used in Todd Inman’s web series “Delayed Gratification.”

What do you love the most about your job?
I love the thrill of not knowing what comes next.  As a lawyer I had a very structured and predictable trajectory.  As an actress I’m always surprised at what creative project is being developed and the variety of characters I am able to become .  I also love the fact that with film and TV the project is there for posterity. I look forward to sharing the film Ghost Goggles with my granddaughter (only 18 mos) when she is a little older. 

What is your most memorable, most awkward, or funniest on set story?
Just this past November when we were filming Pizzaman the date picked for the outdoor scene had to be the coldest and windiest of 2019.  I had focused on the good luck of there not being rain fog or snow… However with the wind chill it was only 29° and it was supposed to be a spring day -all I could wear was a sweater (between takes I bundled up inside the car).  The funny thing was that when we supposedly left the shop where we bought all kinds of knitting material, I put the shopping bag down in order to open the trunk and an unexpected wind knocked everything out of the bag and dozens of balls of yarn went sailing across the enormous strip mall parking lot.  To watch the crew running helter skelter after all these balls of yarn and not being able to catch them was quite a sight.

What are some of the challenges of being a female filmmaker?
While not a female filmmaker myself,  I have sought out films written directed and produced by women because the stories are often  the ones that resonate the most with me . Recently what comes to mind is the film Hedda Needs Help and a web series called Ghetto Nerd Girl both being distinguished by great poignancy humor and festival awards.  What I find with female filmmakers is they seem to go the extra mile to be taken seriously. The numbers show that the industry still is predominately male and I believe it’s harder for women to establish the same networks and conquer the financing aspects of successful filmmaking.  What is so important is that women mentor other women and be there as a resource so that one day it’s only a question of meritocracy.

What is your advice for other women in film?
You should go with your instincts if something doesn’t sound legit it most likely isn’t and you should ask around if you are unsure. No project is worth compromising your values and there are plenty of honorable creatives in the field.  You need not subject yourself to any kind of abuse.

Do you have any upcoming Pennsylvania-based projects?
The following PA projects should be coming out in the spring:  the pilot for a series called Reel Life directed by John Rifici of Omega Media Productions, the feature film What Do I Do Now directed by Joshua Coates ,  Mr.  Blue Shirt directed by Mike Stewart, Arisen2 directed by Richard Chadwick and Pizza man referred to above.  I am also in a web series now filming out of Philadelphia called The Drop Spot produced, written directed by Nicole Stephenson, her daughter Christina Evelyn and Loretta Graham  

PAFIA has been working hard on increasing the film tax credit in Pennsylvania and bringing more film work to our local crew and talent, but we must all unite to really make a difference. What can you tell our elected officials about the importance of PA film industry and the difference it has made in your life?
When I was working on the board of the California company Pets Central Media, we were forming a partnership with Philadelphia local Beryl Wolk (now deceased) and looking for where best to film our edutainment series. At the time we discovered and were quite impressed with the facilities in Aston, Pennsylvania of Sun Center Studios.  Based on their getting the tax credit they had assumed in their projections we were ready to go forward but for other reasons our plans did not pan out.  It was then that I realized how important the tax credit was and how advantageous financially it was with these credits to have filming In the greater Philadelphia area.

What is your advice for the aspiring actors and filmmakers? 
I can speak best to the Acting side -constantly work on your craft. When you are not on set or rehearsing you need an “acting gym “ In Philadelphia there are some great training programs I personally have  attended Playhouse West with Tony Savant , the Actors Lab in Wayne with Bryan Fox,  Ken McGregor’s master classes and coaching and classes with Drucie McDaniel. I can honestly say they are all excellent and as good as training in LA and New York plus you would  have a very close knit community of serious professionals and should  take advantage of these relationships, you can be readers for each other,  film each other ‘s auditions and if you’re smart you’ll create your own projects and cast each other.  Get really good headshots from professionals who know the business and learn what types are in your wheelhouse. Those are the parts you should audition for.

What are some good strategies to find more gigs?
I’ve always found Film.org, Actors Access, Backstage and Casting Network to have the most casting notices. Of course having a good agent is important. Knowing and developing a good relationship with casting directors is also important. There are Facebook groups for actors that will list upcoming projects (you can learn the names from other actors you work with)  go to industry meet and greets and bring your headshot and resume. There are also opportunities in New York to meet casting directors at for example One on One or Actors Connection but this can be rather costly.

What are some of the most valuable lessons that you have learned about this industry and wish you knew earlier?
I wish I had realized early on how important it was to fully prepare for an audition… It’s not just learning the lines it’s watching the show if it’s a TV series (knowing the tempo, who the other characters are, production style, etc.) or looking at other work of the director.  If it’s a commercial understand everything about the product  Also had I realized that it’s not whether you are cast in the particular role you’re auditioning for but more importantly the impression you’re making on the casting director then  it becomes a more enjoyable process. It’s true you are really auditioning for the house and will be brought in for other things if you give the best of yourself.  ...a little patience goes a long way.

What is your favorite film shot in Pennsylvania?
A three-way tie:  Witness a real nail biter and the pivotal scene was at 30th St. Station, Sixth Sense it took place in a South Philly row house like mine and In Her Shoes.  I couldn’t believe the scene at the Jamaican Jerk Hut at 1436 South St., a former favorite hangout of mine.

What is your favorite project that you worked on?
My favorite local PA film was the feature film What Do I Do Now.  It was based on a true story and for my character Bubby I felt I channeled my own grandmother.  It ties with the ongoing series Sangre Negra where I play Alexandra Levy a savvy socialite widow. 

What is your biggest aspiration in this industry?
To have a recurring role in a popular series (fingers crossed that will be Sangre Negra which is to be picked up by the El Rey network this year).  

What would be the best way for our local PA cast and crew to submit to your upcoming projects?
 If I have an upcoming project and there is casting going on I usually post it on social media.  I would encourage people to contact me on Instagram, FB or Julie-chapin.com.  I will reach out to other actors I know If I think they are good for a part that I know is in the works.

Article By: Maria Shamkalian
PAFIA Vice-Chair

What are some of your biggest achievements in the film industry?
I had landed a role in a Amazon Prime production with Dreality Films playing a reoccurring role on a series called Porte Richmond. Shortly after, I landed a role on another series called Honey Child with Dreality with the same director, Domini Supastar. In Porte Richmond, I played a crazy cat lady neighbor. In Honey Child, I played a career counselor at Temple University which serves as the backdrop to the show. Cinematically Temple University  looks amazing on film. It has been a  great experience being on set and shooting for both these parts with the same director. I have numerous stage experiences in 2018 including Uptown and working with the talented director Rodd Deon. In addition, I had a role in Downtown Dreamin written by the super talented Bethel Sheppard Bates. Roz Fulton, from Direction and Exposure has been a huge person referring me for auditions that fit my type.  

What is your most recent success and how did you accomplish it?
Being cast by the same director, Domini Supastar in both Porte Richmond and Honey Child.

How did you get started in the film industry?I started as an extra in movies such as Taps and Blow out filmed in Pennsylvania. I had a family and took a break and now that the kids are grown, I can pursue my passion again.

Why do you choose to work in PA and what do you love the most about working in Pennsylvania?
I am a born and bred Philadelphian. I feel that Philadelphia is like a mini New York City. It has the same vibe as Manhattan being in the city and I love being a part of that new  and vibrant restaurant scene that Philadelphia can now be touted for. 

What are some of your favorite shooting locations in Pennsylvania? Philadelphia and Valley Forge. I was a film major at one time at Temple University and did a project at Valley Forge National Park shooting some days in the snow. What an experience it was!!!

What do you love the most about your job?
It is just so exciting to be able to act and be a part of a production from beginning to end.

What is your most memorable, most awkward, or funniest on set story?
It was mostly in theatre, but the lead would always change his words and we had to always guess when our cues were.

What are some of the challenges of being a female filmmaker?
I just think it is a matter of getting the same respect as males do which is a given. Females have to work doubly harder to earn that same respect.

What is your advice for other women in film?
Just do it and do not hold back. Start in small increments until everything becomes second nature. Remember baby steps in the beginning

Do you have any upcoming Pennsylvania-based projects?
Yes, a show called Runways , from Rollo Robertson Productions as a Madam. 

PAFIA has been working hard on increasing the film tax credit in Pennsylvania and bringing more film work to our local crew and talent, but we must all unite to really make a difference. What can you tell our elected officials about the importance of PA film industry and the difference it has made in your life?
We need the tax credits in Pennsylvania to keep our industry strong in PA so all the work does not continue to go to Atlanta, Georgia.

What is your advice for the aspiring actors and filmmakers?
Some steps to take? Some mistakes to avoid? Continue training. I train with John Pallotta. Every thing helps in building your craft to becoming better at what you are doing.

What are some good strategies to find more gigs?
Backstage, getting an agent, reading industry newsletters , join acting Facebook groups, networking, going to industry functions.

What are some of the most valuable lessons that you have learned about this industry and wish you knew earlier?
Never Give Up.  Keep going. If you have a dream, continue to push forward in the direction you want to go.

What is your favorite film shot in Pennsylvania?
Creed 2 - I was an extra in that movie.

What is your favorite project that you worked on?
Porte Richmond to date.

What is your biggest aspiration in this industry?
To be a series regular and a paid professional actor to live off of that career.

What would be the best way for our local PA cast and crew to submit to your upcoming projects?
I am not writing anything right now but that could be something in the future. You never know.

Article By: Amelia Addor
PAFIA Writer

Looking for the perfect Valentine’s Day date? Something that will surely go down in the date books as “iconic”? Well, what’s more iconic than Italian love? “That’s Amore” has been sung by the greats and featured in movies throughout history. Now it is the title of a classic-movie-in-the-making created by Joe Puglisi and Dr. Dave Petti.

What started as a passion project stemming from a shared film class ended as a three-year local film project starring comedians and actors famous to Pittsburgh. The two men created Little Italy Productions to launch “That’s Amore”. Their adventure from script to screen was one Joe and Dave took in stride no matter what obstacles came their way as producers, writers, directors, and friends. “That’s Amore” has so much to offer Pittsburgh audiences of all ages, and welcomes the local support that came through casting, crew work, and post-production assistance. The community both inspired and helped make this movie possible.

Catch “That’s Amore” at the Strand Theater on Main Street in Zelienople, Pennsylvania about 45 minutes north of Pittsburgh. The film debuts Friday, February 7 at 7:30 pm, February 8 at 7:30 pm, and February 9 at 4:00 pm. The last screening is on Thursday, February 13 at 7:30 pm, which will be the red-carpet night for cast and crew.

With a tagline of, “falling in love was never part of the plan”, there are few movies as heartwarming and laugh-out-loud funny as “That’s Amore”.  Described by David as “a romantic comedy for people who are just a little bit older”, it’s about four Italian-Americans who find love and friendship through adversity and confusion. A nurse named Lucia (played by Tammy Pescatelli) has a mother, Rosa (played by the late Barbara Russell) who is ailing and needs heart surgery. So, Lucia devises a deal with her mother to get married to Lucia’s dentist, Rocco (played by Dave) with the help of Rocco’s best friend Gino (played by Joe). For more information, buy tickets here, or learn more about the film here.

Dave, Joe, thank you for taking time for this interview. Please tell me about who you were before you became filmmakers.

Joe: For me, I have owned businesses and am currently a faculty member at La Roche University as Chair of the Marketing Department. It’s not that I gave up my jobs to be a filmmaker, it was just something I decided to do with Dave in addition to continuing the job I had.

Dave: I was a dentist who practiced for about 40 years in the Plum-Monroeville area. I graduated from Washington and Jefferson College and then after that I graduated from Pitt Dental School. Now I’m retired.

How did you two meet one another?

Joe: Dave and I met each other in acting class. I can’t really give you a year, but I can guess that it was somewhere around 2013. I’d run into Dave in a class I took twice a month, so I got to know him much better.

Dave: I had actually been an actor in the Pittsburgh area since about, oh, the early ‘90s. When the film industry came in, throughout the years I did basic film-work, print media, and commercials off-and-on. I got back into the full swing of acting around six years ago. That’s when I really went full force into the workshops and revamping my acting part of my career. As far as a filmmaker that came about when Joe and I said, “it would be neat to make a film”.

When was Little Italy Productions started? Is “That’s Amore” the first film produced by the studio?

Dave: We formed Little Italy Productions when we decided to do “That’s Amore”. And yes, it is the first film produced by our studio.

Joe: We plan to do different things with LIP after the premiere of “That’s Amore”.

 Is it inspired by anything in particular?

Joe: These things evolve and take a while before we settle on a final idea or story, but we always had “Moonstruck” (1987) in the back of our minds.

Dave: I think the whole concept was inspired by the fact that, Joe and I being actors in Pittsburgh, you’re not in NYC or LA or even Chicago where people of our talent and drive would be out to a lot more auditions with a lot more opportunities as an actor. We decided to try and do something on our own to showcase our talent and to put something we truly cared about out there.

Where was “That’s Amore” filmed?

Joe: It was all filmed in Western Pennsylvania.

Dave: The principle location was in Plum Borough. We used my previous dental office to film the dental scenes and my daughter’s home for Rocco’s house. We also filmed in Pasqualino’s Restaurant in Murrysville and the Italian Club in Sewickley. In Ellwood City, Pennsylvania we used my brother’s house as Lucia and Rosa’s home, the Ellwood City Hospital was used for hospital scenes. Meadville for several of the scenes following

Tell me about who stars in the film and why they were chosen for the roles.

Dave: We needed someone to play a middle aged single Italian woman for the lead of Lucia. For years, I had followed the comedy of Tammy Pescatelli and she was always just so funny. When it came time to casting the role, I said “let’s try to get in touch with her” because she was just too perfect for Lucia. We had no idea where she was- for all we knew, she was in Hollywood. I sent over the script, which she liked immediately, and wanted to be involved in the project. Then we found out she lives in Meadville, which was just extremely convenient for us.

Joe: The woman who plays her mother is Barbara Russell, who had a fantastic reputation in Pittsburgh thanks to her roles on “Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood”, George Romero’s “Day of the Dead”, and her 1960s comedy routine with Don Brockett. Unfortunately, three weeks after we wrapped filming for “That’s Amore” in 2018, Barbara Russell passed away. We were truly lucky to find talent like her and Tammy, so we were blessed to have them on set. Dave in particular was vigilante about going after them, talking to them, seeing if they liked the script, and having them be part of our film.

Dave: I play a dentist and Joe plays a college professor because, well, you write what you know!

Who was this film made for?

 Dave: We wanted to make a film that was family friendly. In Pittsburgh, it’s always horror films or action films. And Joe and I have played our fair share of Italian mob bosses. We really wanted characters that everyone could relate to. It doesn’t matter if you’re a teenager or young adult: you’ll get it. If you’re older, you’ll certainly get it.

Joe: Anyone who wants to laugh and find a heartwarming movie!

How do you plan to reach a wide audience with your first premiere?

Joe: One thing that do is proceed with trying to get a wide audience and awareness for the film.

Dave: The first premiere will be local, so we’re doing our own marketing outreach (and we thank you for PAFIA’s participation) and we will go on to distribute the movie through limited theatrical release as well as on streaming services afterwards. First and foremost, we want to reach everyone we can in the Pittsburgh area.

What are you most proud of with the finished product?

Dave: We’re most proud that it is a finished product! Most film projects that start out never get finished no matter what kind of movie it is. So, I’m just so proud that we just kept on pushing, persevering through any obstacle that came in our way.

Joe: I participated in the writing of the script, helped with the hiring of the crew and the cast, I acted in it, and was part of the post-production and marketing of it. So, what I’m proud of is the finished film that we have. Part of it is that we took our time, we had very talented people in every aspect of production, and every step of the way was met to the standards we started with.

What was something you had to learn about film “the hard way”?

Joe: To call it “the hard way” is to learn what you don’t know at first. Learning how to button down the details you couldn’t anticipate before filming, like getting insurance for the equipment to following Screen Actors Guild rules. All the stuff you don’t think about pre-planning a film.

Dave: I have to say post-production. Post-production has a lot of elements to it. The filming actually went very smooth. We never missed a filming day, we never missed getting all the shots we needed, the weather cooperated, the locations cooperated, cast and crew cooperated, we were just blessed.

What was the process in getting the film screened?

Joe: Basically, I contacted different areas, different movie theaters, so it was a huge marketing process. Getting people to become aware of it and getting some support and gaining agreements to get the film properly released.

Dave: Mostly this was Joe who went around to local theaters and said, “hey, we got a film that needs to be screened”. The Strand Theater being so close to Ellwood and being accessible to everybody in Pittsburgh was just a great fit. They gave us four nights for four different screenings to premiere this film. Because Tammy Pescatelli has performed as a comedian at the Strand, they knew of her and knew our film would be a great asset to the theater.

Any last thoughts?

Dave: The film itself was a labor of love, persistence, and passion. It will continue to be as we distribute it. We will let everybody (and their brother) know that it exists because I think they’ll find this film fun, romantic, and comedic with some elements of drama sprinkled into it. We accomplished that without the multi-million-dollar budget. “That’s Amore” will hold its own against those.

Joe: For me it’s been a very fun process. I’ve enjoyed it and I’ve been very, very impressed with the people I’ve met in Western Pennsylvania who’ve supported and help us with this film. I mean, we’ve had over fifty people involved in the production, marketing, and post-production. I think there are so many more films of caliber that will come out of this area.

Buy Tickets!

Learn More

Do you have a story to tell or a project to share? E-mail info@pafia.org!

 Article By: Maria Shamkalian
PAFIA Vice-Chair

Todd Ryan Jones is a professional stuntman and actor with a long list of well known film and television credits. Some of the films Todd has worked on include Joker with Joaquin Phoenix, Central Intelligence with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Kevin Hart, and Black Mass with Johnny Depp.

The bulk of his work however lies in television, with credits such as The Blacklist, Quantico, Blindspot, The Following, The Newsroom, City On A Hill, The Marvelous Ms. Maisel, The Punisher, Tell Me A Story, Gotham, Wu-Tang: An American Saga, the upcoming Hunters and Little Voice, and many more.

What is your most recent success and how did you accomplish it?
I consider every single job I get to be a success just because of how hard it is to have a career in this business, but my most recent success is technically not a job yet. A film and television development company that I have been loosely working with has expressed interest in possibly partnering up with me on a show that I created called “Carney”, about an ex-con sideshow strongman who is forced to return to his old stomping grounds, a seedy sideshow in an equally seedy town.

The project still has a long way to go before anything even happens with it, but I’ve already spent quite a bit of time and money just getting it to where it is now. As to how I got the project to this point, I think the most effective thing I’ve done with it so far was to get a cast and crew together to film an opening credits sequence as though it were already an existing show.

The reasoning behind this was twofold: I could use it as the actual opening credits sequence if I were to shoot the pilot independently, and also I could use it as a proof of concept/trailer for pitching the show.

We shot it on my property in Doylestown. The entire cast and crew, most of whom are PA residents, did an amazing job and the sequence came out incredible. It can be seen in all it’s glory at www.carneytheseries.com

How did you get started in the film industry?
I got started in the film industry as an actor.  I didn’t go to college right out of high school. I knew I wanted to be an actor but I had no idea how to go about it. When I was about 19 I saw an ad for the Pro Model Talent Agency in Allentown PA. I dove in, taking all of the “on camera” classes I could. I loved it. It was through that agency that I landed my first paying acting gig on a show called Medical Detectives, playing the lead guy in an episode. I thought “Man I’m already getting paid as an actor, this is going to be easy!” Oh how wrong I was!

So I spent the first handful of years in the business as a struggling actor, landing a few good gigs here and there, at least one of which actually led to some major jobs much later on. There came a point when I realized that I really needed to make myself stand out somehow. I couldn’t sing or dance, but I had a martial arts background, so I thought maybe I could start getting into stunt work, and stand out by being an actor who could really, actually do his own stunts.

And that’s exactly what I did. I went to stunt school in New York. Shortly after I finished the course, I contacted the casting director from All My Children, who had cast me in some under 5 parts on the show, and let him know that I was now doing stunts in case anything came up. Sure enough, maybe a week or two later something DID come up, and I was hired to double Aiden Turner for a stair fall on the show. My real entry into the stunt community though came from another job. I saw a casting notice on Facebook for a real stuntman who also had the acting chops to share the screen with none other than Jeff Daniels. I sent in both my acting and stunt reels, and got a call from Julie Michaels. For you fans of the 80’s action flick Road House with  Patrick Swayze, you will remember Julie as the bad guy’s blonde girlfriend, Denise.

Julie, an accomplished stuntwoman and actress herself, is married to a well  known stunt coordinator named Peewee Piemonte, who was working as the coordinator on HBO’s The Newsroom.

I auditioned for the  part, and I actually got it! The next thing I knew I was on set in Manhattan, co-starring on an episode of  The Newsroom with Jeff Daniels and Terry Crews. Terry Crews, by the way, is easily one of the coolest celebrities I’ve ever worked with. Love that guy.

I guess I did a good job, because later on Peewee was coordinating on an  episode of Person Of  Interest and brought me on the show,  which is where  I started to meet some of the other key players in the New York stunt community, and that is where things started to snowball into my career as it is today. What I couldn’t foresee at the time was that the stunt work would quickly overtake the acting jobs, and today I make my living as a professional stuntman.

Why do you choose to work in PA and what do you love the most about working in Pennsylvania?
Well, I usually don’t really have the luxury of “choosing” where I work per say, but when I do get to choose to work in PA, the answer is simple, I live here! Why would I want to go anywhere else? The same goes for what I love most about living in PA, I live here, and I live here because I love it. I know it sounds pretty vague, but there really is something special about it that you can’t quite put your finger on. I hate to sound like a cheeseball and use the word “magical”, but honestly, sometimes it kind of feels that way!

What are some of your favorite shooting locations in Pennsylvania?
I’m an old soul so I love any location that is old or historical. Eastern State Penitentiary is a perfect example. That place has so much character it almost doesn’t even matter what you are shooting there, it’s going to look interesting!

What do you love the most about your job?
Is it wrong to say the money? Well I’m going to be honest and say it anyway! Really though, I make a good living playing pretend, and still have a good amount of downtime to be at home with my family and work on whatever goals I choose to work on. Besides that, the thing I love most about my job is when I get the opportunity to work with someone who has inspired me in the past or who I grew up watching on tv. I think I’m about to give you an example of that in the next question!

What is your most memorable, most awkward, or funniest on set story?
Oh man, how many stories would you like? Any time I get to work with some mega celebrity is usually pretty memorable, but I’ll give you one of my top ones. I co-starred in an episode of  The Following with “Ren McCormack” himself, Kevin Bacon. At one point Kevin calls me by name from across the set in that unmistakable Kevin Bacon voice “Hey Todd, c’mere, let’s run lines”. That was easily one of the most surreal moments of my life.

Do you have any upcoming Pennsylvania-based projects?
A friend of mine is coordinating a show out here right now that he is trying to get me on, but I don’t even know what show it is. Us stunt folks are often told things on a need to know basis. Also, when and if my Carney project gets off the ground yes, I would love to shoot at least some of it in PA.

PAFIA has been working hard on increasing the film tax credit in Pennsylvania and bringing more film work to our local crew and talent, but we must all unite to really make a difference. What can you tell our elected officials about the importance of PA film industry and the difference it has made in your life?
I am by no means an expert on this matter, all I can say is that I would love it if more shows started shooting here. The east coast now has more television shows in production than Hollywood, most of which are in production just a little bit north of us in NY and NJ.  I think it’s totally realistic that PA could be turned into one of the major production hubs if we can just make it a little more enticing for these companies to shoot here.

What is your advice for the aspiring actors and filmmakers? Some steps to take? Some mistakes to avoid?
My number one piece of advice is to have PERSEVERANCE. Do not stop going after your goals! It’s going to be hard, and it’s going to take a long time, just accept those facts and don’t worry about it because that’s the way it’s supposed to be! Also, if you are serious, give it your full commitment, get the best training you are able to get for yourself, don’t be scared, and don’t wait! You’re going to have to figure a lot of things out as you go along, but the only REAL mistake you can make is to give up and quit!

What are some good strategies to find more gigs?
Get your butt out there and get involved with other filmmakers! A large amount of projects that you are going to be involved with in your career are going to stem from people that you met on other projects. It’s up to you to get yourself out there and meet these people.

Also, some of you actors/actresses are going to scoff at this, but there are workshops where you pay some money but then get to audition for an agent or manager. These things are real, and that is exactly how I got my first manager, which is how I got the audition for that show with Kevin Bacon I mentioned. Most of these workshops don’t charge an astronomical fee, and you are guaranteed to be seen by an agent or manager who you might not otherwise ever be able to get in front of. To me it’s a no brainer.

What are some of the most valuable lessons that you have learned about this industry and wish you knew earlier?
One of the most valuable lessons I have learned is that there are going to be slow times when it seems like nothing is going anywhere. DON’T WORRY ABOUT THAT. That is the way it is, even when you start having some success!

A real eye opener for me was the documentary “That Guy Who Was In That Thing”, which interviews several character actors whose faces are recognizable, though you might not know their names. Though they are not Brad Pitt or George Clooney, they are successful character actors who make a very good living in the business, and all of them talk about the fact that they STILL go through those painfully slow times when it seems like their phone will never ring again. That showed me right then and there that that is just the way the business works, even for people way higher up the ladder than I was.

What is your favorite film shot in Pennsylvania?
I’m sure there are many that I’m just not thinking about, but off the top of my head I’d have to say The Sixth Sense. I’m a huge horror fan, and that was a good one.

What is your favorite project that you worked on?
I honestly can’t narrow down one single project that I’ve worked on that is my number one favorite. There have been so many that have been special for so many reasons.

What is your biggest aspiration in this industry?
My biggest aspiration is to have my own production company that allows me to make a good living while making the kind of projects that I want to make.

What would be the best way for our local PA cast and crew to submit to your upcoming projects?
I have no projects to submit to right now, but when the time comes the best way would be to just email me toddryanjones@gmail.com

Article By: Maria Shamkalian
PAFIA Vice-Chair

John Pallotta is a master on-camera acting teacher and one of the most sought-after acting coaches in the industry today. John has almost 40 years of experience as an actor, playwright, director, producer and acting coach and has trained under such masters as Lee Strasberg (Institute), Stella Adler, Bobbie Lewis, Uta Hagen, Austin Pendleton, Wynn Handman as well as many others. John Pallotta’s belief is that “Acting is A State of Mind”.  Today, that belief has become an industry standard in John’s books and in his teachings across the country.

John has accomplished thousands of coaching sessions and has ignited and reignited the careers of some of the talent you see on TV today: including Emmy award winner Anna Chlumsky, (VEEP) and many others.

John's focus as a teacher of the craft is to help each and every one of his students find their own voice as an actor. Acting is a process. It is a journey of discovery. It is a living breathing process that happens each and every day and does not happen overnight. Becoming an actor is learning a new way of thinking and about the way you look at life. Just as you make choices in life that determine your success or your failure. It goes the same for your choices you make as an actor.

What is your most recent success and how did you accomplish it?

As an acting coach I have an innate, absolute love for seeing my actors blossom into something that might even surprise them. I get tremendous joy out of seeing the success of my actors. Love turning on the TV and seeing actors in speaking roles that were once in y class. It’s beginning to happen quite a bit lately. That to me is a major accomplishment.

How did you get started in the film industry?

My roots go back, way back to the theatre starting in 1976. I had the honor to have studied with some of the greatest people in this industry; Lee Strasberg, Uta Hagen and Stella Adler. Also being a playwright, several plays were optioned for film early on and just kept going. I had a number of close calls, including the opportunity to almost play the young Joe Pesci in Goodfellas but it ended up going to someone else.

Why do you choose to work in PA and what do you love the most about working in Pennsylvania?

Lived in New York City most of my life (still have my apartment there), I wanted to be in the middle, between Boston, NYC, Philly and Virginia where my studios are. I spend most of my time traveling from city to city, teaching. At the end of the day, I come back home to Philly.

What are some of your favorite shooting locations in Pennsylvania?

Most of my classes take place on set where students rehearse sides from a currently casting project and film their work on a real set, perfecting their craft while learning the technical aspects of a film or television shoot. My Philly location is a huge 3000SQFT loft with plenty of in-house space.

What do you love the most about your job?

Honored & amazed at the amount of success stories that are coming out of John Pallotta Studio. I love seeing my actors succeed in the industry on a daily basis. They came to me “GREEN” and now many of them are working every day in multiple cities, becoming SAG and following their dream. At the end of the day, that is what I love most.

What is your most memorable, most awkward, or funniest on set story?

A few years back I played a homeless man in a movie call “TUCHT”.  While researching the role and developing the character as a mentally challenged homeless man in front of The Port Authority, an ex-girlfriend past by and thought I was really a homeless man. She approached me and started to cry saying: “OMG, John, I’m so sad the see you like this, what happened?” She bought me two Burger King Whoppers and went on her way. I didn’t have the heart to tell her I was only acting.

Do you have any upcoming Pennsylvania-based projects?

Since I moved here, I had two web series shot and working on a third, “THE ACCIDENTAL REDHEAD” which we are currently in production on our second episode.

PAFIA has been working hard on increasing the film tax credit in Pennsylvania and bringing more film work to our local crew and talent, but we must all unite to really make a difference. What can you tell our elected officials about the importance of PA film industry and the difference it has made in your life?

I never really knew how the whole thing worked until I read this: https://dced.pa.gov/download/film-production-tax-credit-guidelines-2017/?wpdmdl=75431   I think coming together (all of us), there are strength in numbers and putting pressure on the people that represent us.

What is your advice for the aspiring actors and filmmakers? Some steps to take? Some mistakes to avoid?

I am a firm believer that there is no such thing as Acting there is only Life. My technique is based on the belief that Acting is A STATE OF MIND. It is about innocence, imagination, vulnerability, instincts and honesty. It is about practicing the potential qualities that you were born with. The less you think like an actor, the more childlike and innocent you are, the more productive and in the moment you will be. Also, good acting requires that you study in order to master the craft. John's method teaches actors how to achieve and respond to honest emotions both on and off camera by utilizing the principles mentioned above

What are some good strategies to find more gigs?

I have written several books on acting, both on the craft and the business of acting, (I teach both). On my site under the business section, actors can find an endless resource of casting opportunities, acting sides, networking opportunities as well as how to maximize their online presence in the industry. All that and more can be found on my site at www.johnpallottastudio.com. 

What are some of the most valuable lessons that you have learned about this industry and wish you knew earlier?

Through trial and error, I have learned that being an actor is about being a part of something bigger than just myself. I wish I was more responsible when I started out doing this. In the 1970’s I was a young actor and made foolish mistakes. I learned from my past and try to teach actors tow be responsible, professional at all times.

What is your favorite film shot in Pennsylvania?

I’m still new to these parts (PA) that is, still figuring that one out.

What is your favorite project that you worked on?

Probably my favorite thing being an acting coach is working onset with actors both in Film and Television. As an acting coach I have worked on a number of projects. If I had to have one, it would be coaching my actor in Star Trek. I also had the opportunity to play a Klingon, that was perhaps my favorite.

 What is your biggest aspiration in this industry?

My aspirations as an acting coach have always been driven foremost by the creative desire to always question the universe. I did not get into this to be a star, but rather to find the stardom with in. I am doing what I love to do and hopefully be doing this for a very long time.

What would be the best way for our local PA cast and crew to submit to your upcoming projects?

They can learn more about the studio by going online at www.johnpallottastudio.com The contact info is there.

Article By: Maria Shamkalian
PAFIA Vice-Chair

Jillian Bullock is the CEO of Jillian Bullock Enterprises, LLC, a film production company based in PA. As an award winning filmmaker, she wears the hats of actor, writer, director, producer, and fight choreographer. Her film “A Sense of Purpose: Fighting For Our Lives,” will be available on VOD in April 2020. Jillian recently completed a short film entitled “Touch With Your Eyes,” which is on the film festival circuit. In May 2020, she will go into production on a feature film called “A Cup Full of Crazy.” Since 2007, Jillian has been a screenwriting judge for the Set in Philadelphia Screenwriting Contest, sponsored by the Greater Philadelphia Film Office.

What is your most recent success and how did you accomplish it?
That would be completing a feature film, “A Sense of Purpose: Fighting For Our Lives,” which deals with veterans, PTSD and military sexual assault. It took me four years to complete the movie. I had to do a couple of years of extensive research, interviewing veterans who had been sexually assaulted or raped while serving in the military, in order to make sure the movie rang true. The movie is inspired by true events. I had an amazing journey with the film, and had a wonderful cast, especially with lead actors, Tamara Woods and John J. Quinlan, my producers, Delayne Powe and Lamont Fountain, and Executive Producer Joe Hunter, who all worked tirelessly along side of me to support my vision to bring to light this on-going problem in the Armed Forces. “A Sense of Purpose: Fighting For Our Lives,” won several awards at film festivals, including Validate Yourself Film Festival, where the movie won for best film and John Quinlan won for best actor, and Ockotber Film Festival. The grand prize for winning that festival was a five day theater run at Stuart Cinema and Café in Brooklyn, NY. The movie also earned great reviews from many veterans and veterans’ organizations.

How did you get started in the film industry?
When I was a student at La Salle University studying Communications, part of the curriculum was film and screenwriting courses. After I graduated, I got an internship on the set of Spike Lee’s movie, “Malcolm X.” From there I worked on other people’s projects to learn the craft. Eventually, I branched out and started working on my own projects.

Why do you choose to work in PA and what do you love the most about working in Pennsylvania?
When I was growing up my stepfather, who is white, was a member of the Philadelphia Italian Mafia during the 60’s and 70’s. He was also a movie geek and every Sunday he’d take me to see a movie. He was the one who instilled in me that one day I would become a filmmaker and that I should base all my movies in Philly.  Now, I have decided to continue making movies here because of the rich culture the city has, the help that I get from other filmmakers and support from the Greater Philadelphia Film Office.

What are some of your favorite shooting locations in Pennsylvania?
Fairmount Park is my favorite spot. I’m always filming out there because it’s such a big space. I can find a spot near water, or another section I can be in the woods, another section climbing hills. The landscape looks totally different depending on where I go.

What do you love the most about your job?As a writer, director, producer, I get to craft a story and see those words come to life on the screen. I get to share my vision with cast and crew, trying to make something special; not only entertaining, but empowering. I like to get people talking, share their thoughts, emotions, etc. Nothing can do that better than movies and TV shows.

What are some of the challenges of being a female filmmaker?What is your most memorable, most awkward, or funniest on set story?
An awkward memory on the set of “A Sense of Purpose: Fighting For Our Lives,” the lead actress, Tamara Woods, was seven months pregnant when we had to shoot a rape scene she was in. Well, of course I couldn’t let Tamara do that scene, so I stepped into the role as her body double. It was weird because John Quinlan, who portrayed Captain Nixon, the rapist in the movie, had to act like he was assaulting me, along with three other actors, who portrayed Army Sergeants - Nick Mangino, Ben Yon and David Bazemore - who were in the room cheering Nixon on. It was a closed set because John was completely naked and I had to be partly naked to make the scene look realistic. Very strange for me directing that scene while being “violated.” But everybody was professional, not only to me as the director, but as the actress in a sensitive role.

I really haven’t had any challenges because I am firm in the direction of my movies, my vision, how I want to run things on the set, what I will and will not tolerate. I have no problem firing anyone who isn’t serious about doing his or her job. We can have fun on set, but we still have a job to do. Filmmaking is a business first, especially when I have other peoples’ money invested in the movie.

What is your advice for other women in film?
Stand with confidence in who you are and what you represent. Do not sacrifice your story, your vision for anything or anybody. Don’t believe the haters or naysayers. Know your craft as a creative and as a businesswoman and how the film industry works. Try to get a mentor, if you can. Surround yourself with others who are hungry and are willing to work hard to bring the project to completion. Give back and help other filmmakers, too. Keep learning, taking courses, reading books, and getting addition training. When the going gets tough, and it will, take time for self-care, quality sleep, eating healthy, and exercise.

Do you have any upcoming Pennsylvania-based projects?
I am in pre-production on a feature film entitled “A Cup Full of Crazy,” a thriller. Filming begins in May 2020. I have an amazing cast featuring actors such as Christopher Mann, Brian A. Wilson, Karen Waller-Martin, Nakia Dillard, Celeste Allen, Tomike Ogugua, Manny Metris, John Torres, Jacnith Headlam, Adam Ratcliffe, and many others.  Later, in 2020 I will shoot a pilot for a TV series called “Not On My Watch.” It’s been my goal for a long time to write and direct a series and base it in PA. The short film I recently directed, “Touch With Your Eyes,” which starred John Antorino, Misty Godfrey, John Quinlan and myself, I’m currently writing the feature length script to produce and direct that film in 2021. This will be the first movie I’ll do that will take place not only in PA, but in other states as well.

PAFIA has been working hard on increasing the film tax credit in Pennsylvania and bringing more film work to our local crew and talent, but we must all unite to really make a difference. What can you tell our elected officials about the importance of PA film industry and the difference it has made in your life?
I’d say with the hundreds of TV and film projects, independent and Hollywood, that are produced each year in PA, it is imperative to continue to increase the film tax credit in order to support more projects being filmed in this great state. My next movie will be my first union production and that film tax credit will be very important for me to secure funding for the project.

What is your advice for the aspiring actors and filmmakers? Some steps to take? Some mistakes to avoid?
For actors, I’d say study your craft. Watch all kinds of movies to study. Especially study an actor you want to be like, e.g. Al Pacino, Denzel Washington, Viola Davis. The same with filmmakers. There is no reason why a novice actor or filmmaker can’t learn the ropes without going to film school. Take workshops, classes, look at videos on YouTube, read scripts. Do everything you can to master your craft. Also, don’t wait for another person (agent, manager, director) to come to you with a gig. Get together with a small group of filmmakers and create something so you can have a reel. Don’t get discourage. Don’t quit. This is a tough business, so you have to want success badly even on days you feel like crap from all the rejections. Too many people are impatient. It takes time to reach the top. But when you make it, you’ll look back and say it was all worth it.

What are some good strategies to find more gigs?
As an independent filmmaker, you can direct and produce your own projects. You can work on other people’s films. You can also be a work-for-hire filmmaker. Get a good website done, business cards, network, go to film festivals, workshops, events, and let people know you’re available. Put you information on social media. Same goes for actors. You have to be grinding every single day. Also, have a great website and an acting reel. Join IMDB pro.  Please have a photo connected to your page if you want to be taken seriously. Many directors, producers and casting agents use IMDB to search for actors.  

What are some of the most valuable lessons that you have learned about this industry and wish you knew earlier?
You can’t wait for people to hand you gigs. Sometimes, you have to create your own projects, especially if you’re a filmmaker. Also, be kind to people, fair and respectful. Work hard, show up on time, actors know your lines, crew know your position and do it well. Above all else, I’ve learned as a director and want to share this wisdom with actors and crew - don’t have an attitude, be a diva, have an ego, gossip, be hard to get along with, show up late. Whether you are working on deferment or getting paid, be professional. We are all trying to achieve the same thing – having a great project to be proud of.

What is your favorite film shot in Pennsylvania?
There are many, but I’d have to say the Rocky and Creed movies. I got to interview Sly Stallone years ago when I was a reporter for the Wall Street Journal. To see the pride people in Philadelphia have when it comes to the legacy of the character Rocky and now seeing it being carried on in the Creed movies, it touches me deeply, very emotional. Those movies show what it’s like to have a dream, overcoming obstacles, fighting back after being knocked down, believing in self, pushing the naysayers back, the sacrifices one makes, the blood, sweat and tears one endures, and training hard to be the best in one’s craft in order to get the WIN. Think about it, these are the same things, the same issues, and the same desires that go into being a successful filmmaker or an actor.

What is your favorite project that you worked on?
Years ago, I wrote, directed and produced a film called “Spirit.” It involved professional wrestling. My lead actors, and I, got to train with professional wrestlers at the WXW wrestling school. Many of the students were preparing to enter the WWE, like Dave Bautista, who trained at this camp.  Now, retired from wrestling, he’s a big time action star.  The WXW training school was run by Afa Anoa’i and his family.  The males are the uncles and cousins of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, and they all were in the WWE through the years. Staying at Afa’s house in Allentown, PA on weekends and training at the camp, I learned so much about the Samoan culture and I got to meet many of the WWE superstars. I also learned that while the WWE matches are predetermined, they are not fake. I saw many of the wrestlers get cut, broken bones, other injuries. In fact, I endured broken ribs as a result of landing wrong on the mat one time. Still, it was so much fun training and filming.

What is your biggest aspiration in this industry?
To be the first African-American woman of color to own an in-house film production studio in Philadelphia. In-house meaning all books, TV shows, webseries, and movies will be produced by my team. No outside projects. And to do this without having investors so I can own the studio 100 percent.  My second biggest aspiration is to create a screenwriting contest called First Rate Vision that will cater to female writers only. In this industry, women, especially women of color, just don’t get enough writing opportunities. I plan to change that.

What would be the best way for our local PA cast and crew to submit to your upcoming projects?
They can email Delayne Powe, Producer, at – jbullockenterprises@gmail.com

Interested in sharing your story? Email info@pafia.org to join our
Featured PA Filmmaker series!

  Article By: Maria Shamkalian
PAFIA Vice-Chair

Meagan Hill has served on the Philadelphia Local SAG-AFTRA Board since 2012, and was recently elected VP Actor/Performer. In addition to her union work, Meagan has been active in PAFIA since its formation. In 2013, she produced and directed a promotional video showing how a one small Pennsylvania town benefited from TV and film production work in the area.

What is your most recent success and how did you accomplish it?
I was recently elected VP (Actor/Performer) for the Philadelphia Local of SAG-AFTRA.

How did you get started in the film industry?
After I graduated from DeSales University, I performed leads in numerous dinner theatre and murder mystery productions and with several comedy troupes. I also directed dozens of children’s theatre shows. More recently, my creative partner, Tom Orr and I have written and produced several cabaret shows together. I joined AFTRA in 1980. This made me eligible to work on film projects in the Philadelphia/NYC areas. In 2012, I was asked to fill a vacant seat on the Philadelphia Local SAG-AFTRA Board and to serve on the National Honors and Tributes Committee. Once I became a member of PAFIA, I encouraged many actors and crew people to join. I was notorious for having stacks of “Why join PAFIA” postcards with me in the holding area. “Are you a member? Why not? Go to the website!” When an Academy Award nominated actor from Pennsylvania admitted that he wasn’t a member, I handed him a postcard!

Why do you choose to work in PA and what do you love the most about working in Pennsylvania?
I live here! NY and LA are not the only locations with professional actors who are capable of getting the job done.

What are some of your favorite shooting locations in Pennsylvania?
Olde City Philadelphia, Jim Thorpe and Hatboro (yes, my hometown!)

What do you love the most about your job?
“Do you *want* to act, or do you *need* to act?” I NEED TO ACT! I love being part of the creative process to make “Make Believe” look “Real”.

What is your most memorable, most awkward, or funniest on set story?
I was playing a homeless drug addict in a student film and supplied my own costume. While I was sipping my coffee, the director inspected my outfit. When he commented that my tee shirt was too clean, I DUMPED my coffee down the front of my shirt. His jaw dropped and he said admiringly, “Wow… you ARE a professional!!!”

What are some of the challenges of being a female filmmaker?
I was hired to play a doctor in a print ad. Once on set, they gave my lab coat to a male actor because, “The public won’t believe a female doctor”! In addition to acting, I also direct corporate videos for a local production company. I’ve had a few camera operators and crew people blow off my instructions with a snide “women can’t direct!” (seriously!).

What is your advice for other women in film?
You *can* have a family and a career! The Arts and taking care of children (or elderly parents) is not easy! Cultivate a supportive network that includes your partner, friends and family.

Do you have any upcoming Pennsylvania-based projects?
Directing corporate video interviews. Writing a new cabaret show with my creative partner.

PAFIA has been working hard on increasing the film tax credit in Pennsylvania and bringing more film work to our local crew and talent, but we must all unite to really make a difference. What can you tell our elected officials about the importance of PA film industry and the difference it has made in your life?
Find the video I directed that was on the PAFIA website in 2013/14. Shot in Hatboro with statements from PA Rep Thomas Murt; local actress, Patsy Meck and Tim Lewis, owner of Lewis Paints. Says it all!!!

What is your advice for the aspiring actors and filmmakers? Some steps to take? Some mistakes to avoid?
LISTEN! FOLLOW DIRECTIONS! BE PREPARED AND PROFESSIONAL! LEAVE YOUR EGO AT HOME.

What are some good strategies to find more gigs?
Network. Be the most professional representation of your craft.

What are some of the most valuable lessons that you have learned about this industry and wish you knew earlier?
LEAVE YOUR EGO AT HOME

What is your favorite film shot in Pennsylvania?
Silver Linings Playbook. SAG Award winning film where I got to “tailgate” with Bradley Cooper!

What is your favorite project that you worked on?
Student film for Temple University: The young director wanted me to play a homeless drug addict… for free. I told him that I was in SAG-AFTRA and that the union had student film contracts. “You want to be a professional filmmaker? Then you need to know about working with film contracts”. He and the student-producer thanked me on the set for helping them take their first steps as “real filmmakers”.

What is your biggest aspiration in this industry?
An Oscar!

Last Thoughts?
“Pennsylvania artists and crews are visibly distinct from the rest. We clearly show the training, dedication and professionalism that took years to attain and was hard won. The Guild and the film industry of Pennsylvania should be synonymous for excellence. Professionalism will reduce production time by adding value through skill" 

  Article By: Maria Shamkalian
PAFIA Vice-Chair

Brian Anthony Wilson began his film career with the Supporting Lead role of 'Woody' in Kevin Costner's 1997 film, "The Postman". Since then, he has appeared in over 160 Film/TV Projects. Selected credits include : Ocean's 8, Glass, How To Get Girls, Creed, Limitless, Title VII, 6 Souls, Crooked & Narrow, Keeping The Faith / Mare of Easttown (HBO), Dispatches From Elsewhere (AMC), Wu-Tang: An American Saga (Hulu), Siren (FreeForm), Bull (CBS), Bloodline (Netflix), Gotham (Fox), Broad City (Comedy Central), Blue Bloods (CBS), Law & Order : SVU (NBC), The Sopranos & The Wire (HBO).

Recent Theatre: Looking Over The President's Shoulder (one-man show @ Act II Playhouse), King Lear (SCP), Gem Of The Ocean * Barrymore Award * (Arden Theatre), Thurgood (One man show @ Olney Theatre Center) & Fences (J.A.G. Prod., VT).

What is your most recent success and how did you accomplish it?
My most recent success was getting to portray 'Eddie, the EMT', in a scene opposite the amazing & gracious Kate Winslet, in the locally shot HBO, mini-series, "Mare Of Easttown". Ms. Winslet is in my top 5 favorite Actors, what a thrill!

How did you get started in the film industry?
I got started in the film industry with a Supporting Lead role in the epic post apocalyptic Film, "The Postman", with Oscar winning Director, Kevin Costner, in 1997. I auditioned, with the help of Mike Lemon, via VHS tape (2 scenes, 6 lines), which I sent, via FedEx, out to L.A. On the strength of that tape, the Producers flew me out to their Production Office, on location in Tucson, AZ, to meet with Mr. Costner. I was told, "if he likes you, be prepared to stay for 10 days of rehearsal, if not, you'll be on the next flight back to Philadelphia". Mr. Costner was out scouting locations, so was l lead to a room to await his arrival. I walked through a doorway, that had '222' above it, which i took as a good omen, as my Bday is February 22nd. I met with Mr. Costner, discussing the script (which i read on the flight out) and the film/his expectations. When asked, I explained i had no film/T.V. experience, only 10+ years of Theatre training/performing in plays. We spoke for about 16 minutes, after which, he offered me the role of 'Woody'. I was thrilled, to say the least! I was not in S.A.G. at the time but was given a 'Taft-Hartley' waiver to work on the film. In all, i spent 5 & 1/2 weeks, rehearsing & filming the Movie. Shooting on picturesque locations in Tucson, AZ & Bend, OR. It was a Life defining experience.

Why do you choose to work in PA and what do you love the most about working in Pennsylvania?
I 'choose' to work in PA (born & raised in Philly but have been living in South Jersey since 2004) because the vast majority of my Family is here, including my Wife, who is a Professor in Philly, my kid & my Mommy, who still lives in Mt. Airy. I love working here because of the proximity of my Family and also because, i'm a bit of a 'known entity' here. whereas in L.A. or NYC, i'm a 'who the heck is he?', actor :).

What are some of your favorite shooting locations in Pennsylvania?
Favorite shooting locations? Shooting at City Hall for my two, quick scenes in "Law Abiding Citizen" (opposite Gerald Butler & Jamie Foxx) was pretty cool! Also, I love the rural Pennsylvania locations of several M. Night films I've been honored to work on, like "The Happening" & "Glass", lots of greenery & cows.

What do you love the most about your job?
As my first NY Agent told me, after shooting "The Postman", "You're Immortal baby!". I am Blessed to do a ton of Theatre but once the show closes, that's it; all the blood, sweat & tears you poured out onstage is gone, forever. But with Film/T.V. projects, you can revisit your work (which can sometimes be a bittersweet thing) as long as the medium of Film & T.V., exists. Also, I LOVE the nuance & subtlety of doing Film, where you can do so much, with the lift of an eyebrow or turn of the head, as opposed to Theatre, where you have to 'reach the audience member sitting in the back row', you have to be a lot 'bigger'!

What is your most memorable, most awkward, or funniest on set story?
Most awkward was when I shot "Keeping The Faith", directed by (and starring) the amazing & gracious, Edward Norton. There was a scene where my character has to 'close line', the the other leading actor, Ben Stiller. I rehearsed the scene with the stunt coordinator for around a half hour and all went well (I had stage combat training and was confident in my ability) but when it came time to shoot the scene, Mr. Stiller told me, "I don't want you touch me" (or words to that effect). Then after a few takes, Mr. Stiller complained that the move felt false and my 'arm recoil' was not true. Of course, it didn't help the action because he didn't want me to make contact with him. I was perplexed, because he's a big Star and I'm a nobody. I tried my best but if you watch the film, you can see that I actually do not make contact with him. Such is the Biz.

Do you have any upcoming Pennsylvania-based projects?
Upcoming Projects include, a small recurring role on the (wonderful) Jason Segel helmed, AMC T.V. series, "Dispatches From Elsewhere"; a supporting Lead role as a Police Chief, in the indie thriller, "Shimmer"; a Lead role in an indie Horror Film, "Room 9" (recently acquired by Lionsgate) ;  a supporting Lead role as a Psychiatrist in the Jillian Bullock helmed psychological thriller, "A Cup Full Of Crazy" (filming in Philly in May) and a Lead role as a Police Captain, hell bent on Justice & revenge, in a new T.V. Pilot, "D.O.P.E Unit", by PhilaDream Films, shooting in Philly in 2020. Whew!

PAFIA has been working hard on increasing the film tax credit in Pennsylvania and bringing more film work to our local crew and talent, but we must all unite to really make a difference. What can you tell our elected officials about the importance of PA film industry and the difference it has made in your life?
I honestly think its a bit a 'no-brainer' because of the VAST amount of 'return on investment' that happens when these Film/T.V. Projects shoot here. They spend BIG Bucks, housing actors, producers & crew; feeding them, buying props/costume, all LOCALLY! Its made a difference in my life by allowing to work on a number of Hollywood Films, opposite a few Oscar winning Artists, right here, in my hometown, without flying out to L.A.!

What is your advice for the aspiring actors and filmmakers? Some steps to take? Some mistakes to avoid?
My advice to aspiring actors and filmmakers? Learn your craft! Take classes, do student films, write your own content, don't sit & wait for 'the Business' to come to you. If you make (or act in or produce) a compelling product, guess what, they'll come to YOU! The Industry is thirsty for new Content, especially with SO many different venues (Apple TV+, Hulu, Netflix, etc). Learn/practice your craft whenever you get an opportunity, even if its just a reading or a table read (I've been cast from both!). Don't just go see the Blockbusters, go see/support and learn from indie films (even ones with sub-titles) and go to LIVE Theatre. Study with different people and ask questions when you get on set. And of course LIVE LIFE and observe people & the human condition.

What are some good strategies to find more gigs?
Networking. Networking & Networking! And the 'usual suspects' : Actors Access, Backstage.com, Castingnetworks.com, Film.org & more! Google auditions. 

What are some of the most valuable lessons that you have learned about this industry and wish you knew earlier?
Be professional, on time and courteous/respectful to all around you (but my Daddy taught me that years ago!). Research who you're going to be auditioning for/working with, tons of info on the web and knowledge is Power! Also, know your worth and don't compromise your ethics, go with your gut instincts. Sometimes, saying "No, thank you", can be a good thing.

What is your favorite film shot in Pennsylvania?
Favorite Film shot in PA?  "Crooked and Narrow" ; a gritty, superbly written, acted & directed (by Neal Dhand) indie film, its also a lovely homage to Philly. My first scene was shot in front of the Rizzo mural in South Philly! Its available on Amazon Prime.

What is your favorite project that you worked on?
Favorite Project I worked on? "99% Sure", a wonderful little "Rom-Com', with wit, substance, heart and a stellar cast/crew!

What is your biggest aspiration in this industry?
My biggest aspiration? A Series Regular role on a long running and well written show. I'm past ready and my skill set is honed to do great work!

What would be the best way for our local PA cast and crew to submit to your upcoming projects? 
Probably Film.org or scouring Facebook and reaching out directly, if we're linked on any media platforms.