Barely Living The Dream

Making this grant presentation from last year public now (with some minor edits) in anticipation of our world premiere next month at Amazing Fantasy Fest! Details are here: https://www.amazingfantasyfest.com and new trailer is here: https://youtu.be/pRheZpXsBpQ For the video version of this podcast episode, go HERE: https://youtu.be/w3m6ZF-TOpM On 12.27.23 (my birthday) I did a livestream update on the film via Zoom (while I was still in the clutches of the 'Rona - 1/10 do not recommend). I showed a couple completed clips from the film, and even the first trailer! All this stuff will be exclusive and for your eyes only until probably Spring 2024 (at least), so you're definitely getting an advance look behind the curtain! EDITS: I trimmed off the beginning part of the stream where we were waiting for folks to join the Zoom, as well as the last 2/3 of the musical number so that it's still a surprise at the upcoming screenings! Left the first verse until the big guitars come in though. Also the clips aren't fully foley-ed or mixed, etc. and the score is all temp stuff. Basically...the movie is pretty much done now, this was when it was still a work in progress. INBETWEENING stars Brandon Cole, Tye Blue, Debbie Rochon, Chelsea McCurdy, Jill Brumer, Dillon DeWitt, Seán Patrick Judge, and Angelo Moore (the frontman/singer/saxophonist of Black Rock pioneers Fishbone). Eric Linson is a struggling multiracial filmmaker with a few credits to his name and absolutely nothing to show for it. Inbetweening follows his journey trying to remain afloat and healthy in the liminal space between projects...while the voices in his head steadily become louder. Some are helpful, but most aren't...especially the Zombie Guy. Fortunately, the lead singer of Eric's favorite band (Angelo Moore, from the legendary Fishbone, playing himself) is on Eric's side. Inbetweening melds live action, animation, puppets, and even a musical number to reveal Eric's increasingly fractured journey. This particular work is funded in part by the City of Houston through Houston Arts Alliance.

A Very Special Homecoming Episode! Brittany (re) joins Mel and Chris to discuss all the stuff she's been working on/doing over the last couple years, ranging from FEAR THE WALKING DEAD to PANIC to WALKER and beyond! She'll also talk about becoming a licensed special effects technician/pyrotechnician and leaving an impression by (fake) burning down a church! For pyro/spfx/script supervision inquiries, email brittany@bmilesmedia.com IN THE BLOOD commentary https://youtu.be/WRtIMSVR490 INBETWEENING teaser https://youtube.com/shorts/WJ_ku90NGTc

On this episode of BLTD, writer/director Stephen Wolfe joins Mel and Chris to discuss his projects, his love for Universal Monsters, and that time he let Mel use his car while in Los Angeles. Stephen has written/directed the features DOLL FACTORY (currently on Amazon Prime, Crackle, Plex, and Tubi), MIDNIGHT ABYSS, and the shorts DRACULA'S COFFIN and DEAD LIFT (featured in 10/31 PART 2 - currently on ScramBox, Prime, and Tubi). You can check his stuff out at these links: DOLL FACTORY TRAILER https://youtu.be/Yd_gXM2bl18?si=3TIFMG_P-SR_NjYF CURSE (short film) https://youtu.be/T0h8uQ-Wtd0?si=BzgWrVYYiV4XxubT JASON MEETS THE WOLFMAN https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ONXyZJIHip0 10/31 PART 2 Trailer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QslBnwJbsCE Be sure to like and subscribe to help the channel grow! Chris Warren on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3479843/?ref_=ttfc_fc_cr Watch DARK RITUAL: https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B099P69816/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r Watch MYSTERY SPOT: https://www.terrorfilms.net/film/mystery-spot

We're back with a new episode with Chris Warren, who brings us up to date on all the sets he's been working on for the past 3+ years! Chris has been making movie magic across varied states and genres with folks like Ron Perlman, Danny Trejo, Esai Morales, Eden Brolin, and the late Tom Sizemore. He also reunited with a few MYSTERY SPOT MVP's (Graham Skipper, Ken Whiting, and Cyrus Rodas ) to shoot Graham's new feature, THE LONELY MAN WITH THE GHOST MACHINE which is premiering soon. We talk about all that and more on this one. Be sure to like and subscribe to help the channel grow! Chris Warren on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3479843/?ref_=ttfc_fc_cr Watch DARK RITUAL: https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B099P69816/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r Watch MYSTERY SPOT: https://www.terrorfilms.net/film/mystery-spot THE LONELY MAN WITH THE GHOST MACHINE Premiere Info: https://makebelieveseattle.eventive.org/films/65b3de4af14e9500ce515486

Here's an interview that Chris Warren (Director/Co-Writer/Etc.) and I did with Derrick Fury (director of LION KILLER and head instructor at Axiom Jiu-Jitsu) just after we signed our distribution deal for IMAGO - which by then we had recut and retitled IN THE BLOOD...which then got retitled into DARK RITUAL upon release. We tried to include lots of extras regarding the (over a decade) long and arduous journey of making, posting, and selling the film, including BOTH the IMAGO version and the IN THE BLOOD version, as well as related added value material, but of course none of that has seen the light of day. Until now! Check out the release as DARK RITUAL in the following places: Tubi: https://tubitv.com/movies/660365/dark-ritual Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B099P69816/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EHfpJReqDnQ Check out a couple reviews of the movie here: The Final Cut: https://youtu.be/-yiony6uAyE?si=DlnMuxfeYGCQcqR0 Zisi's Movie Emporium: https://zisiemporium.blogspot.com/2022/04/dark-ritual-hp-lovecraft-meets.html?m=1 Check out Derrick's film LION KILLER here: Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B07ZQJ3P82/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r Tubi: https://tubitv.com/movies/504154/lion-killer Subscribe to the Upstart Filmworks Youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkZ1BNnxHjcFLxl9z01iQMg

Earlier this week, I did this "sneak peek" of the movie via Zoom - it was part of the grant finalization process. I recorded it, so here's the audio! I play rough cuts from a few scenes I've edited thus far, plus a early sneak peek (listen) to "S**tshow", the song from the musical number in the film. INBETWEENING stars Brandon Cole, Tye Blue, Debbie Rochon, Chelsea McCurdy, Jill Brumer, Dillon DeWitt, Seán Patrick Judge, and Angelo Moore (the frontman/singer/saxophonist of Black Rock pioneers Fishbone). We completed principal photography in March 2022, and are in post production right now! Join me for a WORK IN PROGRESS sneak peek at some of the footage and animation as well as discussion of some of the underlying themes/origins of the stories within!

What's up everyone? Yep, been a while. Lots of stuff has happened...and we do mean LOTS. MYSTERY SPOT premiered, DARK RITUAL gained traction, the Burn video finally came out, AND we shot another feature (INBETWEENING). Mel catches you up on ALL of it. INBETWEENING post production crowdfunding campaign: http://igg.me/at/inbetweening Upstart Filmworks Linktree: https://linktr.ee/upstartfilmworks

Back from extended hibernation, to the delight of a couple people and the chagrin of many more! You'd think we'd have spent the lockdown cranking out content...alas, that was not to be. But that doesn't mean we weren't busy! To wit: - First off, MYSTERY SPOT is having it's World Premiere at Arrow Video's London FrightFest in August! Huge deal! Info here: https://www.scifinow.co.uk/events/frightfest-second-wave-of-films-announced/ and here: https://www.frightfest.co.uk/holdingfolder2/MysterySpot.html - IN THE BLOOD (formerly IMAGO) is now DARK RITUAL. Coming soon from Summer Hill Entertainment! More info here: http://summerhillfilms.com/dark-ritual/ - Brittany has been working on FEAR THE WALKING DEAD (zombies) - Chris worked on a bunch of stuff, with a bunch of people, including who he claims to be the "best Baldwin brother". - Mel worked on a Happy Madison film, officially as the 2nd Assistant to Taylor Lautner (werewolves) ...and more! Give it a listen as we catch up on the last year and change of insanity. As always, you can find more info at upstartfilmworks.net or at @upstartfilm on all the social media

Our first foray into live-streaming wherein we ask the question: what would YOU think would be most valuable to focus on in a "filmmaking workshop" session? We have a couple that we've been asked to participate in, so we decided to brainstorm some ideas. Info on the Houston area screening of IN THE BLOOD here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/in-the-blood-fka-imago-private-screening-benefitting-upstart-katelynn-tickets-92356118637 Video of this episode can be found here: https://youtu.be/H6iTL0QMZRo Subscribe to our YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkZ1BNnxHjcFLxl9z01iQMg For more information, visit upstartfilmworks.net

Once again, Mel House, Chris Warren, and Brittany Miles all find themselves in the same room to do a podcast. This time, we have a feature in the rearview to discuss: Mel's fifth feature film, MYSTERY SPOT, which was shot in September 2019. Unfortunately/fortunately - there's literally nothing to complain about (except for Mel's weird psychological trauma that he had to wade through during production). Accolades abound, however. The team was wonderful, and we are all excited about the future of the project (currently in post). After that we catch up with Chris, who updates us on the plethora of films he's been working on this year...as well as the impending completion of HIS film - (The Movie Formerly Known As) IMAGO. Brittany then talks a little bit about her documentary, as well as the state of her previous feature in the post-Distribber debacle landscape. For previous audio-only podcast entries, see the last two links below. Please like, comment, share, subscribe, and all the rest! Thanks for watching/listening! http://www.upstartfilmworks.net https://www.facebook.com/upstartfilmworks/ https://www.facebook.com/MysterySpot/ https://www.facebook.com/Imago-the-Movie-91101715571/ https://twitter.com/upstartfilm https://www.instagram.com/upstartfilm/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/barely-living-the-dream/id1070710324 https://soundcloud.com/mel-house-1

That's a wrap on MYSTERY SPOT! (Actually, we wrapped over a month ago, but I've been busy editing, handling wrap up stuff, and celebrating our 14th wedding anniversary). At any rate, I recorded some post-shoot reflections once I got my wits back about me and with the benefit of hindsight. This one's not too long though, as well...there's not that much to report (for once). Smooth sailing. Now that Melanie and I are back from the trip out to NYC to see the Misfits (who destroyed Madison Square Garden, holy shit), I am neck-deep in getting the assembly edit done - along with some minor wrap up delivery stuff for The Movie Formerly Known As IMAGO. Both are on an accelerated timeline, which is awesome. Listen for more on those fronts and others!

We recently wrapped principal photography on my fifth feature, MYSTERY SPOT. It was a wonderfully harrowing experience - "wonderful" because of the amazing team of people I surrounded myself with, cast and crew alike, and "harrowing" because I didn't realize exactly how damaged and broken I'd become over the last several years of working with much less amazing/competent individuals. (I guess I should have just listened to the old episodes of this podcast). I never would have suspected that the thing I dreamed of most these last few years (directing my own feature again, and not going broke to do it) would also at times become the last thing in the entire world I wanted to do. Totally my own "Splash Mountain" experience (you'll need to listen to unpack that one). At any rate, this episode just lays out the groundwork and context of how MYSTERY SPOT came together, and I'll divulge some stuff that I haven't spoken about publicly that made the process that much more difficult for me. I'll probably speak to that aspect more in future installments - I need perspective and distance - but I hit the broad strokes here. Hopefully it will strike a familiar chord with those out there experiencing similar difficulties. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255 (TALK) Check out Betterhelp.com if you're looking for counseling (not an official sponsor, but they sure as hell helped me) - they are making professional counseling accessible, affordable, convenient - so anyone who struggles with life’s challenges can get help, anytime, anywhere.

Another Barely Living The Dream podcast - now with video (which you can see at the Upstart Filmworks YouTube channel)! Bear with us as we expand/tweak this new component of our online presence. On this episode, Brittany and Katelynn join Mel as he decompresses after Texas Frightmare Weekend and preps to pull the trigger on his new feature film (which begins shooting in July).

Back after another semi-unintentional hiatus. Upstart Filmworks has a new office, a new lease on life, AND a new employee! Consider it a recharge / renewal / refocus / whatever "re" word you prefer. Anyway, Katelynn the Upstart Assistant joins Mel and Brittany for a recap and rundown of the last few months and what the next few have in store. Chris eventually shows up...just in time for us to read a few pages from Mel's first script! We are planning a full cast read of the whole thing later this year...stay tuned. Subscribe, rate, review! Find us on the web at upstartfilmworks.net

Complicated question, right? I figure if I've been called it more than 5 times in my life (I have, and with the hard "R" to boot) I can say it. Obama can say it, and we're both half Black, right? (Wait, he got in trouble, didn't he?) Anyway, the whole episode isn't about that. But it DOES talk about what I'm doing now/next, and therein lies the racially charged material. But it's all true, I swear. We officially start on my 42nd birthday (12/27). Concept art of Angelo Moore as himself and Tye Blue as "Zombie Guy" by Matt Orsman of http://mirthquake.net

For this episode, we take a slight diversion in the spirit of the season (and our 13th wedding anniversary). Melanie joins Mel for a round of personal ghost stories - ones we've each told quite a bit over the years. These are all personal paranormal experience that we saw with our own two eyes. Weird creatures on rural Texas highways. College poltergeists. Cable Access Mad Men. Last but not least, a recounting of our anniversary trip out to the Myrtles Plantation exactly one decade ago a.k.a. "The Most Terrified Melanie Has Ever Been In Her Life". Is there life after death? You be the judge. Here are a few other creepy podcasts we've been rocking that kind of got us into the mood do to an episode like this: Spooked: https://spookedpodcast.org The Boogie Monster: https://starburns.audio/podcasts/the-boogie-monster/ Timesuck: https://timesuckpodcast.com Astonishing Legends: http://www.astonishinglegends.com The No Sleep Podcast: https://www.thenosleeppodcast.com

This one's kinda late and off of our normal upload time, but we've been busy working on stuff. Most of which we discuss on here. Chris has been working on a bunch of movies, Mel has been re-tooling Chris' movie, as well as laying the groundwork for feature number 5 (among other things). Work work work. (The title refers to how many times Chris gave away too much during his catch-up time.) WEST OF HELL is currently in Wal-Mart for purchase, so go pick it up! Support Debbie Rochon's sophomore film here: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/debbie-rochon-s-sophomore-film#/ Support the David McAbee/Jack Grisham of TSOL project here: www.gofundme.com/sometimes-i-die

We do a little time travel on this one, as the bulk of it was recorded back in February while Chris and Mel were driving through Kentucky and Tennessee. There's some complaining, some catching up, some real talk, and some staring into the abyss (which of course, also stares back into us). So...pretty much business as usual. Check out the Oceans of Slumber videos we did here: https://oceansofslumber.com/videos ("The Banished Heart" & "The Decay of Disregard") Check out the Anova Skyway videos we did here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGQ9MtiMfpufKKbCknZW9rQ ("Flutters", "Namesake", "Fate Strikes Twice", and "1991" Support Debbie Rochon's sophomore film here: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/debbie-rochon-s-sophomore-film#/ Support the David McAbee/Jack Grisham of TSOL project here: https://www.gofundme.com/sometimes-i-die

At long last, we have the lovely, wonderful, legendary Debbie Rochon on the podcast! Debbie and Mel have collaborated many times (with many more on the horizon). Deb takes the time to catch us up on her last few projects, including her directorial debut MODEL HUNGER, her upcoming second film as director, and her recent time on the set of Troma's SHAKESPEARE'S SHITSTORM. She also talks a little about the book she's been working on (that we can't wait to read). We also work out some personal stuff and she invokes the (un)holy HELLRAISER in reference to yours truly...so of course she's one of our favorite people in the world. For more info on Debbie's upcoming film and ways you can help out, check out https://www.debbierochon.com/news Get MODEL HUNGER here: https://www.amazon.com/Model-Hunger-Lynn-Lowry/dp/B01D01K5UA Check out the Astro Radio Z WC13 episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bfuFCPIzFNo PLACEHOLDERS can be found here: https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=atv_dp_pd_dir?url=search-alias%3Dinstant-video&field-keywords=%22Mel%20House%22&rh=k:Mel%20House%2Cn:2858778011&ie=UTF8 as well as here: http://www.filmon.com/tv/the-placeholders

The BLTD podcast returns with our friend Yousef Abu-Taleb in the passenger car! We worked with Yousef on WEST OF HELL (formerly COLD DESCENT, and before that, LAZARUS), which is currently available in Redbox. We discuss everything from Yousef's beginnings as one of the first YouTube stars on lonelygirl15, to his (sadly too short) stint as a rapper, to working with Tony Todd, Michael Eklund, et al on WEST OF HELL...and more! Check it out, and check out our movie WEST OF HELL while you're at it! Redbox link: https://www.redbox.com/movies/west-of-hell

Jeff Caudill (frontman for prominent Southern California rock band Gameface) joins us to discuss his latest solo EP, "Reset The Sun" and the five (!) videos that Mel/Upstart Filmworks produced to accompany the release. The relationship was definitely mutually beneficial, as you'll soon hear (note the clever wordplay in the podcast title). Jeff also discusses his "day job" - designing industry key art for everything from Deadpool to Harry Potter. "Reset The Sun" is available NOW: Digitally - https://jeffcaudill.bandcamp.com/ Vinyl - check your local record store! Check out Jeff's Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/jeffcaudillmusic/

Quick update from Mel on what he's got going on (videos for Jeff Caudill's RESET THE SUN & the SEQUENCE BREAK World Premiere at the Chattanooga Film Festival on 4/6)and then we catch up with Brittany, Chris, and special guest Ken Whiting "The Gaffing Wizard" who are all currently on-set in Colorado.

Ramzi Abed, our guest on Episode 21, was the victim of a devastating apartment fire last week. We're rebroadcasting his episode (already a fan favorite) with some additional info on how to help Ramzi get back on his feet. He lost just about everything - clothes, computer, movies, raw footage, etc. His hands also got burned pretty badly. Help out if you can! You can donate via Paypal by using the Bloodshot@msn.com email. In addition, there's a GoFundMe page here: https://www.gofundme.com/brock-doom-vs-apartment-fire You can also hunt down his indie film stuff on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/s?ie=UTF8&page=1&rh=n%3A2625373011%2Cp_27%3ARamzi%20Abed Or check out his adult material at http://brockdoom.com/ (WARNING: VERY NSFW) Thanks! Get well soon, Ramzi!

Remember that promo we cut where we (mostly me) read hatemail? Here's the uncut recording session, which makes a pretty compelling listen on its own. Beyond "bad reviews"...these selections are mainly personal attacks or fallout from bad deals, shadiness, etc. It was actually kind of fun to revisit this stuff because 1) none of it ended up mattering and 2) I've become something akin to a Highlander that is fueled by spite and rage anyway. Enjoy! More soon (we promise). - Mel

Promo for the podcast. It will run on other B&E Network podcasts. http://www.bmoviesandebooks.com/

This time, Chris and Brittany do an "on the road episode" while en route to Dallas to work on another production. Brittany gets to tell her side of the GROUNDS story, embellishing and filling in stuff mentioned on the previous episode. She and Chris discuss caring too much, justifying things on the fly, dealing with drama (the bad kind), watching Mel circle the drain, and even more cursed goings on! https://www.facebook.com/moviemonsterhouston/ @ChrisWarr54 http://www.upstartfilmworks.net @upstartfilm

Mel and Chris return to their roots and record another in-car installment which features: an invitation to those who didn't much care for our last podcast, a rundown of Death's latest attempt to claim Mel, a rundown of Death's latest attempt to claim not only Mel, but Chris, Brittany, AND Justin Powers (I guess Death didn't care for the last podcast either), and most importantly...a reflection on the film we all just finished working on in Vegas - THE GROUNDS. Some would say that film had a bit of a 'curse' on it. We joked about it often. But...maybe there's some truth to it. You be the judge.

In this feature-length episode, Mel is the sin-eater (for once) as Brittany, Chris, and guest Justin Powers spend an hour and a half going off about about their last "shitshow" experience. If you're wondering why we don't do much "local" work anymore, this pretty much sums it up, as the issues seem to be endemic at this point. Not to say that working elsewhere isn't crazy (we're all on-set in Nevada as of this writing, and it's definitely crazy)...but "Houston Film Crazy" is a special kind of crazy. Also, speaking of crazy...Mel stared death in the face. Again. More on that later. @upstartfilm http://www.upstartfilmworks.net

Nickie Morgan, Mandi LeBlanc, and William Basinger join Mel as they reminisce about his first movie, FADE TO BLACK (which they are all in). Well, as much as can be remembered, anyway. The discussion starts at FADE and covers everything from PLACEHOLDERS to the Muskogee Castle to Nickie having to deal with the fact that Mel was editing sleazy adult films in the next room when they lived together. @upstartfilm http://www.upstartfilmworks.net

Lance "Fever" Myers has been a professional animator for over twenty years. His work can be seen in the feature films SPACE JAM, ANASTASIA, and Richard Linklater's A SCANNER DARKLY; as well as in over twenty-five successful video game titles, including Turok Evolution, NBA Jam, and Star Wars: The Old Republic. Myers has written and directed twelve animated shorts, many of which have shown on HBO, MTV, Adult Swim, PBS, and Canada's Movieola. His "labor of love", BOXER STORY, is slated from completion in 2017. Mel speaks with Lance (who he first encountered as the frontman for Austin ska sensation Gals Panic) about his influences and journey through a career in animation...where his first major gig was drawing Bugs Bunny. Gals Panic Page: https://www.facebook.com/Gals-Panic-260823048021/?fref=ts Boxer Story Kickstarter (over, but follow for updates): https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1101984741/boxer-story-the-animated-short-film Ariel, Lance's daughter (she's awesome): http://www.arielabshire.com/ @upstartfilm http://www.upstartfilmworks.net

In which Mel discusses how Las Vegas, one of its most prominent magicians, rock supergroups, a Wayans brother, and horror genre illuminati have all recently been a huge part of his filmmaking landscape. It's basically a quick little update episode to let you all know what's going on in Upstart Filmworks Cinema-land! There's a reason while we've been on a bit of a podcast hiatus. Fear not, for there will be a deluge of content on the other side! For now, here's what's keeping us busy. No, Mel has not met up with Randall Flagg yet. (That he knows of, at least). @upstartfilm http://www.upstartfilmworks.net

DISCLAIMER: If adult films and the porn industry in general make you uncomfortable, you may want to skip this episode. Or stop listening about 30 minutes in or so. In this episode, Mel sits down with Ramzi Abed (aka Brock Doom) to discuss traversing the fringes of independent filmmaking as a maker of challenging cinema, the transition to working in the adult film world (including developing an alternate persona), and then finally making the jump back. Open your mind, relax, kick back, and have a listen! @RamziAbed @BrockDoomFORNOW @upstartfilm http://www.upstartfilmworks.net

Mel welcomes guest (and recent on-set collaborator) Graham Skipper to the podcast. Graham is probably best known for essaying the role of Herbert West in REANIMATOR: THE MUSICAL…however, he's steadily been making a name for himself on the independent horror circuit with acclaimed turns in features like ALMOST HUMAN, BEYOND THE GATES, and THE MIND'S EYE, among many others. Most recently, Graham has wrapped principal photography on his first(ish) feature, SEQUENCE BREAK (which, incidentally, Mel was the 1st A.D. on). Mel talks with Graham about his particular journey, from stage to screen to setting up shots, and why he owes a great debt to Norm from "Cheers". It all culminates in a special one-on-one edition of "Greenlit Or Bullshit". This is also our inaugural installment as part of the B&E Podcast Network! Be sure to check out some of our sister shows! @upstartfilm http://www.upstartfilmworks.net http://www.grahamskipper.com http://www.bmoviesandebooks.com/benetwork/

Mel rolls solo on this one again, pulling back the curtain even further on how he's managed to "barely live the dream" for the last couple years. Lots of candid talk regarding movie gigs, pre-production gigs, side gigs, part time jobs, being bi-coastal (or perhaps just bi-coastally curious), and how they all ultimately affect the bottom line. Additionally, we present our first "audience participation" installment of "Greenlit or Bullshit?" @upstartfilm http://www.upstartfilmworks.net Big thanks to Cipher Escape Rooms: http://www.breakthecipher.com Standardized Patient info: https://www.bcm.edu/education/schools/medical-school/programs/standardized-patient-program/ https://med.uth.edu/oep/clinical-surgical-skills-center/standardized-patient-program/

Mel, Chris, and Brittany are all in the same room once again, and this episode basically is a "debriefing" of the past couple months of production work in California. Which essentially means that Brittany ends up being our cinematic sin-eater. The upside is that, for once, Chris is WAY more frustrated and angry than Mel. The student truly has surpassed the teacher. On a more positive note, this episode sees the return of "Greenlit or Bullshit?" @upstartfilm @cwarr54 @moviemonsterhouston

This summer (technically spring/summer), Mel landed to back-to-back gigs on California-lensed genre features. Both were in the A.D. department…and if you're a fan of the podcast you might know that Mel has had some recent "issues" with that type of work. As such, it was definitely poised to be an interesting several weeks. He thought it might be a good idea to keep an audio diary during the shoot. Here are the ones pertaining to the first shoot - Graham Skipper's SEQUENCE BREAK. (Hopefully, Graham himself will be on the podcast soon to discuss things as well). Thanks to Jeff Gameface for the lyrical inspiration for the title. Oddly enough, that song also quotes some Texas Is The Reason lyrics…from Mel's favorite TITR song, actually. We think that's some nice synchronicity. (On that note…you'll hear more of Jeff in our world soon, stay tuned). Info on SEQUENCE BREAK can be found here: http://www.blumhouse.com/2016/06/10/graham-skippers-directorial-debut-sequence-break-begins-production/

Tim Wrobel, script supervisor and one-time star of the longest running direct-to-video horror franchise ever, drops by and gives us some sage advice from the scripty side of the monitor. What does a Script Supervisor do? Do we really need one on set? Should you listen to them because you're paying them to do a job and back you up? The answers to all this (and more) lie within. Enjoy the first episode in our "Filmmaking Summer in Los Angeles Series". @TimmyRobes @upstartfilm

Things get serious as we speak with our guest, actress Melanie Donihoo (Mel's wife) about performance anxiety, stage fright, and what to do when you hate doing something that you're really good at. Lately, Mel has found himself in that situation amidst a bunch of Assistant Director gig offers, so we all ponder what to do in light of Mel either 1) losing his mind or 2) committing mass murder. Or maybe it will be both? Meanwhile, Brittany calls in en route from her gig on The Leftovers set (where she assures us the A.D. was also having a rough go of it). And then of course, another installment of "Greenlit or Bullshit?". Melanie on IMDb: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1655670/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1 @upstartfilm upstartfilmworks.net

Lisa Wilcox returns in this installment (much like she did in the Nightmare series) to discuss the impact and usage of social media in today's independent filmmaking landscape. We also get to do a bit of "Viewer Mail" from folks that checked out the previous episode with Lisa. Lisa Wilcox on the web: http://lisaewilcox.com/ Scream Magazine: http://www.screamhorrormag.com/

Lisa Wilcox from A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET 4 & 5 joins us on this episode to talk about her particular journey in the industry...from General Hospital to Springwood to the Enterprise to raising a family and back again. Mel tries not to sound like a 12 year old fanboy. We also debut a new recurring feature: "Greenlit or Bulls**t?" Lisa's website: http://lisaewilcox.com Lisa on Twitter: @LisaWilcox1 Lisa on IG: thelisawilcox Lisa on FB: https://www.facebook.com/lisa.e.wilcox.3/ Look for Lisa on the cover of issue 36 of Scream Horror Magazine, and check out her feature story inside! http://www.screamhorrormag.com/

This episode is more or less the Chris Warren show, as Chris relates his most recent on-set experiences. Basically , Chris turned a whole production around and got them back on track...again. Aspiring AD's, this one's for you. Lots of great info within including the non-creative details/pitfalls of working with children (more stuff that no one seems to take into account) and how it feels to have Senator Kelly AND Tasha Yar tell you that you saved the day. We recorded this one en route to a location scout for an upcoming feature, so it's another In The Car/On The Road episode. Adjust your EQ to taste, and enjoy! Trivia: "Hunter Packsaddle" is Chris' sometime production alias. Most recently, you can find it credited on some of the Placeholders episodes. @cwarr5454 @upstartfilm upstartfilmworks.net

Brittany and Mel discuss distribution issues, crowdfunding complaints, what happens when people who theoretically should support you don't....and the difficulties faced when attempting to deposit that paycheck you made working on an adult film. Also, Mel invites his enemies to the podcast - which includes pitching a TV collaboration with the Witchcraft 13 guys. More on Operation Chokepoint here: http://reason.com/blog/2014/04/28/doj-operation-chokepoint-and-porn-stars Mel: @upstartfilm on Twitter/Insta upstartfilmworks.net Brittany: http://www.bmilesmedia.com/ https://www.facebook.com/moviemonsterhouston/?fref=ts

This week, Mel takes the podcast in a different direction, talking "film fallout" with his oldest friend Domingo, and his wife Melanie. And his daughter, Regan, of course. (Also: I promise I only recorded in the car for the first three minutes). Special shoutout to the band Sense Field, who inspired the title/direction. R.I.P. Jon Bunch. http://www.ocweekly.com/music/jon-bunch-memorial-concert-brings-out-a-whos-who-of-the-classic-emo-and-hardcore-scene-6974590 Extra special shoutout to Will Barratt, Jason Miller, Alycia Lourim, Domingo Baragan III, Melanie House, and Regan Christine House. @upstartfilm on Twitter/Instagram

Brittany gets ripped off! (probably) Mel gets ripped off! (two possibles, one definite) Chris says something about a time machine! We also talk about approaching investors and what to tell them if you want their money, but most importantly...what to tell them if you want to be honest. Follow, like, share, rate! @upstartfilm @chriswarr54 https://www.facebook.com/moviemonsterhouston

Our final entry (for now) from "On The Road Filmmaking Diaries". Mel and Chris categorically go through most of the figurative ass-whippings they've taken in the name of cinema. Yes, Mel tells the Witchcraft 13 stories again, as well as those related to Fade To Black, Closet Space, Walking Distance/Psychic Experiment, etc. Chris talks about his trial by fire via Imago/In The Blood. Most of the gory details are shared, and there's a lot of "G.F.Y." to go around. Enjoy! Follow, share, subscribe! upstartfilmworks.net @upstartfilm @cwarr54

We bring Brittany Miles (producer of the film 869) into the fold, and get her origin story, some on-set Charlie Foxtrot anecdotes, and discuss her writing and directing a Placeholders episode. Then Mel discusses his "lists" and Chris talks about allowing your talent to make the choice to kick a box. Find Brittany's movie 869 here: http://www.amazon.com/869-Unavailable/dp/B00WGYXUNC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1453567353&sr=8-1&keywords=869 Find Brittany's Placeholders episode here: http://www.amazon.com/Placeholders--Passion-Jeff-Nick-Mills/dp/B01AVB1EJI/ref=sr_1_4?s=instant-video&ie=UTF8&qid=1453567574&sr=1-4 or here: https://www.hoopladigital.com/title/11489684 Or here: http://www.filmon.com/channel/the-placeholders

Jumping backwards in time with this super-sized (feature length!) episode: during the first, pre-Xmas return trip from the WICKED TRICKS shoot, Mel and Chris discussed their approaches to scriptwriting. We also dug into the collaborative process on the IMAGO/IN THE BLOOD script (which was a first for both of us). After that, Mel goes on a Axel Foley/Ellen Ripley/Shining rant. As per usual.

Our comedy series PLACEHOLDERS has begun its multi-platform rollout! In honor of that milestone, we talk about the series' humble beginnings, the road to the syndication deal, the stuff we had to do to make the shows fit the criteria, and the related creative processes. Also by request: some quick and dirty definitions of terms we cavalierly throw out during our podcasts. LINKS: Placeholders on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=sr_ctrb_default_srch_lnk_4_?rh=i%3Ainstant-video%2Ck%3AMalenieDonihoo&keywords=MalenieDonihoo&ie=UTF8&qid=1452412450 Placeholders on Hoopla: https://www.hoopladigital.com/title/11489684 The Placeholders Channel on FilmOn: http://www.filmon.com/channel/the-placeholders SAG New Media Info: http://www.actinganswers.com/whats-the-fastest-way-to-get-into-sag-aftra/

Recorded the week of Christmas, 2015, as Mel and Chris were returning back to Texas after the first leg of production for WICKED TRICKS. Things went really well...for once. We discuss our successes, challenges, and newfound allies. We also talk about our favorite docs about making movies. Lost Soul - http://www.amazon.com/Lost-Soul-Journey-Richard-Stanleys/dp/B00TTRCTG8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1451799055&sr=8-1&keywords=lost+soul Hearts of Darkness - http://www.amazon.com/Hearts-Darkness-Francis-Ford-Coppola/dp/B000XECFXS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1451799099&sr=8-2&keywords=Hearts+of+darkness Despite The Gods - http://www.amazon.com/Despite-Gods-Jennifer-Chambers-Lynch/dp/B00U2YNNSA/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1451799138&sr=8-2&keywords=despite+the+gods Alien Anthology - http://www.amazon.com/Alien-Anthology-Aliens-Resurrection-Blu-ray/dp/B001AQO3QA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1451799171&sr=8-1&keywords=alien+quadrilogy+blu+ray Burden of Dreams - http://www.amazon.com/Burden-Dreams-Criterion-Collection-Kinski/dp/B0007WFYB6/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1451799221&sr=8-2&keywords=Burden+of+dreams Follow us: upstartfilmworks.net @upstartfilm @cwarr54

In our continuing efforts to "keep it real", Mel goes off on his own and gives an inside look into his situation, his current mental state, and other related items. No, it's not a cry for help. Follow us! Twitter: @upstartfilm and @cwarr54 Web: upstartfilmworks.net

Filmmakers Mel House and Chris Warren welcome you to their inaugural podcast, recorded straight from the trenches as they trek cross country to work on an independent feature. In this episode, Chris and Mel talk about their experiences in the Assistant Director position. Plus more horror stories. EXPLICIT CONTENT - we curse a lot. Here are links to some of the stuff we mention: http://www.thinkcrew.com/product_view.cfm?p=27 - Casper is an Excel workbook that contains a Call Sheet, Production Report, Exhibit G and Hot Cost Report. All of the documents contained in Casper talk to each other, nearly eliminating the need to retype data that you've already entered. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Texas_Is_the_Reason https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chamberlain_(band) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quicksand_(American_band) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fishbone - all bands with powerhouse "secret weapon" drummers. Follow us! Twitter: @upstartfilm and @cwarr54 Web: upstartfilmworks.net