The Wednesday’s Mr. Sid’s Video Series will feature an original video by Sid and Beulah Lenger.
The video is “America Then,” which will be followed by a presentation by Mike Martin on “Presidents We Need to Especially Remember in 2023.”
Mr. Sid’s Video Series is Wednesday, Feb. 15, at 2 p.m. at Marge’s Donut Den, 1751 28th St. SW. There is a 15-minute hymn sing that starts at 1:45 p.m.
The series runs every third Wednesday of the month. Upcoming presentations are:
March 15: WOTV’s Terri DeBoer will lead discussions of her new book “Grieving Well: A Healing Journey Through the Seasons of Grief”
April 19: Will feature several immigrants sharing their stories of hopes and challenges and adjusting to a new world.
May 10: Grand Valley State University History Professor and Director of GVSU’s Veteran History Project James Smither will present “Death and Life in the Big Red One: A Soldiers Journey from North Africa to Germany.”
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma WKTV Managing Editor joanne@wktv.org
A tragic situation lead local artist Kim Johnson to be a witness to the chaos world of the healthcare workers as they struggled to help those with COVID 19, which in turn has lead to an insightful and personal narrative of what Johnson saw.
“If My Paintings Were on These Walls” will premiere on Feb. 17 on WKTV’s Comcast Channel 25. (WKTV)
Friday, Feb. 17, WKTV will premiere Johnson’s short film “If My Paintings Were on this Wall” at 7 p.m. on Comcast Channel 25 or you can live stream it at WKTV.org. The film is a combination of watercolor paintings and an essay by Johnson with video clips, narrated by Grammy Award winner singer, actress and author Debby Boone.
“Having seen Kim’s artwork, I knew that she would do a beautiful job executing this project.” Boone said. “There is real emotion and humanity in these pictures that is quite beautiful and her essay really communicates the sacrifice [many] have been willing to provide for people during such a trying time with the pandemic and the overload in these hospitals.
“You know they are exhausted and their personal lives are maybe falling apart and yet, they still show up with love and compassion for the people they’re trying to serve.”
The story of Kim and Georgia Johnson
Covid 19 turned many people’s lives upside down and local artist Kim Johnson and her mother, Georgia thought that was going to be the case for them.
But a trip to the hospital lead to the discovery that Georgia did not have Covid like everyone thought, but rather metastasized breast cancer, which would take her life in 21 days.
During that time, Kim Johnson spent every waking hour at the hospital and when her mother was getting tested or sleeping, Johnson, with sketchpad in tow, would draw what see was seeing: the nurses looking so tired but kept going, health care workers being yelled and assaulted by frustrated and frightened patients; and those running from one hospital room to another to take care of patient needs.
“At the time, I was a pretty bitter person,” Johnson said. ”I disliked anyone in the healthcare field. I disliked [Georgia’s] doctor because I thought he could have caught it.
“I was pretty nasty and my attitude stunk in the time that she was there and a lot of times I left the room and took my sketchpad with me and God worked on my heart a little bit because one of the first things I saw, or rather heard, was there was a patient screaming. The F-bomb was flying right and left, and the next thing I know this nurse came out and she was balling…she crumbled to the floor in tears and someone came to console her.”
This would be the first of many sketches but after her mothers death, Johnson’s resentment toward anyone in the healthcare, caused her to pack up the drawings along with her art supplies. After selling the family home, she had no intention of having anything to do with art.
Finding compassion and gratitude
Six months later, Johnson began to have a change of heart, developing compassion for the healthcare workers. She rekindled her love for drawing and watercolor painting, and through most of her supplies were in storage, she was able to find a few supplies packed away including the sketchbook she had at the hospital.
One of the 38 paintings by Kim Johnson.
It is from that sketchbook she wrote her essay about her experiences and interactions within those 21 days and painted 38 4×6-inch paintings, all of which is included in the video.
Johnson has long followed and admired four daughters of legendary singer Pat Boone since 1977 when Debby Boone recored the song “You Light Up My Life.” She also was a fam of the 1979 Boone Family Easter Special. Through a meeting on the now defunct My Space, Johnson meet and became friends with Cherry Boone O’Neill, Debby Boone’s sister. It was through that friendship, which eventually migrated to Facebook, that she met Debby Boone, who upon hearing of the project agreed to narrate it.
“Honestly, I never thought that I would ever have the opportunity to meet Debby Boone, let alone work with her on a project I created,” Johnson said. “She narrated something I wrote. I still cannot believe that it is happening. I am beyond honored.”
There will be a private showing of the film at the WKTV Community Media Center in February. In March, there will be a public showing that will be followed by a brief appreciation recognition for healthcare workers in all capacities. The film also will be available on Kim Johnson’s YouTube channel at the end of March.
Roll out the red carpet, as a staple of the Grand Rapids film scene is set to return. Since its founding in 2005, the Chiaroscuro International Film Series has sought to promote its mission of “connecting world cultures, promoting greater understanding of diverse peoples, and celebrating the universal human spirit through exceptional international cinema.”
During the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, Chiaroscuro operated a virtual “Greatest Hits” season in 2021, while the 2022 season was cancelled outright out of an abundance of caution. The upcoming 2023 season – the festival’s 18th overall – marks the first full, in-person season in three years.
“I believe I speak on behalf of the entire organizing board when I say we are immensely excited for the Chiaroscuro International Film Series to be returning,” said Chiaroscuro Board President Spencer Everhart.
What is the Chiaroscuro International Film Series?
Per Chiaroscuro’s official website, the organization’s purpose “fosters a deeper understanding of world cultures through the medium of film. Chiaroscuro enriches the West Michigan cultural landscape by presenting films in a setting that encourages discussion and enjoyment through a shared social experience.”
The series’ dates of operation run every other Sunday from January through March, with films beginning at 2:00 pm. Each international film is selected based on its availability, level of critical reception, specific country of origin, and runtime, among other factors.
“With theatrical film distribution as competitive as it is, important movies from around the world don’t always get a chance to be shown in Grand Rapids, so we definitely view Chiaroscuro as providing the region with a connection to films and filmmakers that are not necessarily always represented on our local big screens,” Everhart said.
Following the film, a moderator leads a discussion between two panelists. One panelist brings the perspective of a film scholar, while another offers insights into the given country’s history and culture. Chiaroscuro also invites audience members to ask questions.
Food and refreshments related to the film’s country of origin are available following each week’s discussion.
“The collective experience of watching a film in a theater is part of what makes Chiaroscuro special, but it’s the post-screening discussion panel and audience Q&A – followed by a reception featuring food related to the movie’s country of origin – that makes it a unique cinematic experience that is only possible when we gather together,” Spencer said.
Run by a group of volunteers consisting of local artists, educators, and others, admission to the series is free and open to the public. Support from those local volunteers, along with contributions from universities and businesses, enables the series to remain free.
From 2011 to 2020, Chiaroscuro operated out of Grand Rapids’ Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts (UICA) auditorium. However, during Chiaroscuro’s Covid-induced shutdown, the UICA moved to a new location that no longer accommodates a theater space. It was recently announced that UICA would be closing at the end of Feb. 11. Therefore, in 2023, Chiaroscuro will relocate to the Wealthy Theatre at 1130 Wealthy St. SW. There is a potential for a larger turnout at the Wealthy Theatre, as it nearly doubles the seating capacity of UICA.
“While we are sad to no longer be hosting these events at our old home, the UICA, we are proud to be partnering with the historic Wealthy Theatre to continue Chiaroscuro into a new era” Spencer said. “It’s a beautiful venue run by passionate folks who have an interest in our mission of sharing global film culture with West Michigan.”
The 2023 Season
Each year’s films are all tied together with one unifying theme, and 2023’s theme is Absence/Presence. Chiaroscuro intends for that theme to reflect the shared human experience of moving on and coming together after a global pandemic.
The 2023 season begins on January 8 and runs every other Sunday through March 5. Per board member Kerri VanderHoff, the film schedule is as follows:
January 8
Waru (Gardiner et al, 2017) New Zealand
Following the death of a child, eight Māori women risk everything for the greater good of their community.
January 22
Quo Vadis, Aida? (Zbanic, 2020) Bosnia and Herzegovina
Ma Aida is a UN translator. When the Serbian army takes over her town, her family shelters in the UN camp.
February 5
Asako I and II (Hamaguchi, 2018) Japan
Asako loves Baku, a free spirit who suddenly disappears. Later, Asako meets Ryohei, who looks just like Baku.
February 19
Le Havre (Kaurismäki, 2011) Finland/France
When a young African refugee arrives in the city of Le Havre, an aging shoe shiner welcomes him into his home.
Transit
March 5
Transit (Petzold, 2018) Germany
A man escaping occupied France falls in love with the wife of a dead author, whose identity he has assumed.
“We hope the return of Chiaroscuro brings back our usual attendees from the past, but we also hope it draws in new audiences who are invigorated by the possibility of seeing international cinema in a context that enhances our understanding and appreciation for filmmaking from around the world,” Spencer said.
For more information about specific showings and panelists, follow Chiaroscuro on their social platforms (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn) and check their official website for updates.
Dégagé Ministries is excited to host Unhoused, a film series on the causes, realities, and solutions to homelessness. The event series will include two films shown at Wealthy Theater on June 22 and July 20 from 6-9 p.m., followed by an outdoor community celebration at Dégagé Ministries, 144 Division Ave S, on Aug. 10 from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Each film will be followed by a Q&A with representatives from various organizations, including Mel Trotter Ministries, Family Promise, and Network180. Grand Rapids Poet Laureate Kyd Kane will moderate all sessions.
The film series will culminate in an Outdoor Community Celebration on Aug. 10 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., outside Dégagé Ministries at the corner of Cherry and Sheldon Avenue. This celebration will feature local food trucks and a live poetry reading by Kane. Food and drink will be available for purchase at all three events, but are otherwise free for the public.
The first film featured, Us & Them, documents ten years in the lives of four individuals facing homelessness. Directed by Krista Loughton and Jennifer Abbott, the film explores the challenges of homelessness, and the powerful transformations created through human connection.
The second film, The Public, continues the theme by retelling a story of civil disobedience in Cincinnati, as people turned to a public library for shelter from the outdoor elements. Both films seek to explore and educate the general population about the complexities of homelessness in our community, and wider society.
“Homelessness is a multi-faceted issue with widespread effects in our city,” says Dégagé Ministries Executive Director Thelma Ensink. “Our goal is to bring the complexities of homelessness to light, and promote education and conversation in our community.”
Mia Farrow, Barbara Hershey, and Dianne Wiest in the 1986 Woody Allen film “Hannah and Her Sisters.” (Orion Pictures)
Perhaps for once I should write about a film that most people my age would find interesting… Nah, where would the fun in that be? Why review the latest Disney product masquerading as a real film when I can talk about a family dramedy that’s more than two decades old? So, without further ado, I present to you The Movies That Got Me Through High School.
Hannah and Her Sisters is a film that’s all about relationships. Not just familial relationships, nor romantic relationships like in other Woody Allen films; but also about our relationships with our religion, our past, our emotions, our mortality, and everything else that defines our lives.
Elliot (Michael Caine) is a married financial advisor who’s become infatuated with his wife (Mia Farrow) Hannah’s younger sister, Lee (Barbara Hershey). Lee is currently living with a much older (and much more world-weary) artist named Fredrick, who adores her, but is too cynical about life to provide her with true happiness and fulfillment. The third sister, Holly (Dianne Wiest), is even worse off in her life. She’s a struggling actress who only got off cocaine a year ago, and her dependence on Hannah for both financial and emotional support has caused her to develop resentful feelings towards her. On the side, we have Mickey (Woody Allen) Hannah’s hypochondriac former husband who comes face to face with mortality when his doctor believes the mild hearing loss in his left ear might be a symptom of a brain tumor.
Michael Caine, with Mia Farrow, won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for the film “Hannah and Her Sisters.” (Orion Pictures)
The movie has a lot of fun jumping around to different characters and subplots. It’s much easier to make a movie that’s about everything when the plot is almost none existent. The title cards in between each segment add a novelistic sensibility to the work and make a movie that might come dangerously close to feeling convoluted and pointless into a very cohesive and meaningful work of art.
The screenplay is one of the richest ever written for the silver screen. Every piece of dialogue is as witty and true as it is character-revealing. The style is theatrical in the sense that you can tell the lines being spoken have been written out with great attention, but the actors instill them with so much life and raw emotion that it doesn’t occur to us that most people couldn’t talk like this even if they tried.
The performances in this movie are some of my absolute favorites. They’re the main reason I can’t stop watching the film over and over again. I’m addicted to them. I’m overwhelmed by how passionate and fully realized they are. Michael Cane is enjoyable in every movie he’s in, and Diane Weist is possibly the most adorable woman that has ever lived. The true stand out here however is Barbara Hershey, who is so enchanting that we fall just as helplessly in love with her as Elliot does. We are captivated by her not simply because she’s beautiful, which she most certainly is, but because she’s so real. There is not one scene with Hershey that doesn’t radiate emotional truth and vulnerability. We fall in love with her from the films opening shot and share Elliot’s desire to take care of her forever. Our affection is drawn to her like metal is drawn to a magnet.
Dianne Wiest, with Woody Allen, won a Best Supporting Actress Oscar for her role in “Hannah and Her Sisters.” (Orion Pictures)
If there’s one central theme that I draw from the film it’s that we create most life complications ourselves. Whether we’re constantly going to the doctors to get a diagnosis for a disease we know we must have or are lusting after another person because the one we’re with feels too perfect, most of life’s problems originate (and hopefully resolve) in the mind.
There is another reason I find myself constantly coming back to this movie, it fills me with so much hope. This is apparently not the desired effect of the film, at least, not as far as Allen is concerned. It was his intention to make what he describes in various interviews as, “ a melancholy film.” but somewhere in the film’s conception, he turned it into a more optimistic piece. Personally, I couldn’t be happier to see him fall short of his original intentions. I like to walk away from a film feeling depressed as much as the next art-film fanatic, but too much of that can be draining. It’s a great pleasure to watch a movie that reminds me that we decide whether our lives are going to be happy and full of meaning or, sorrowful and unsatisfying.
Ethan Gough is an Independent filmmaker and film critic pursuing his passion for cinema at Motion Picture Institute in Troy, Michigan this fall. He received the award for Best Live Action Short at the 2020 Kent County Teen Film Festival for his film Summer Days. He had two films in the 2022 Kent County Teen Film Festival, Bros Night and Alone. Ethan also written from Reel Rundown and Hub Pages.
As the world grapples with the deadly COVID-19 pandemic, Ferris State University stakeholders quickly collaborated to create a plan to keep campus safe and in operation after the state-wide stay at home order.
Nick Kuiper
The new documentary film from regional Emmy® Award winning filmmaker Nick Kuiper, “A New Normal,” features nearly 50 interviews with students, faculty, staff, and administrators as they share their experience during the pandemic. The film captures the stress of learning during a pandemic, the collaboration necessary to keep campus running, the creative problem solving necessary to keep stakeholders safe, and the challenges involved with quickly shifting classes online. A New Normal offers a roadmap of how one university utilized feedback from all their members to safely stay open.
One such story focuses on the Ferris Plastics program’s collaboration with Operation Face Shield. While campus shifted to online education, staff and faculty in the plastics program helped develop a mold for mass production of face shields and eventually creating over 40,000 face shields that were sent out across the globe.
Imagine being an excited student ready to embark on your first study abroad trip to Peru, when suddenly, in the middle of your excursion, the Peruvian government initiates a mandatory lockdown. A New Normal showcases the quick thinking of Ferris faculty as they rush to evacuate their students before being stuck in the country indefinitely.
Also hear from students and faculty in Biotechnology, as they quickly implement revolutionary wastewater testing technology to narrow in on COVID-19 clusters and stop outbreaks before it can spread around campus.
“A New Normal” will air on WKTV Channel 25 Oct. 13 at 2:30 p.m. and again on Oct. 14 at 10 :30 p.m. and Oct. 15 at noon.
Director Todd Lewis talks to some of the extras on the set of the “Horizon” production. (Colleen Pierson)
By Colleen Pierson WKTV Contributing Writer
When Todd Lewis, multitalented director, writer, actor and musician put out a call for extras for a movie he is creating, we all came in masses.
It’s hard to resist a Lewis film since he pours his heart and soul into every project he is involved. I personally knew with him writing, directing, and editing this film, it would be a great project to be involved in and so did many others who volunteered to help Lewis with the project.
Author Colleen Pierson poses with Gina Boscarino. The two were extras in the film “Horizon.” (Supplied)
Lewis created a short film entitled “Horizon” as part of a three-film series created for the WKTV Community Media’s 28th Street Metro Cruise coverage. Each of the six-minute films tells a narrative story about classic cars and classic design.
Lewis said when approached about the idea, he immediately thought of the late 1940s/early 1950s when some of the most iconic cars were created.
“I decided to set the story against the backdrop of segregation that was taking place at that time using the vehicle as a symbol of freedom,” he said.
A key setting in the film was a busy 1950s dinner where the two main characters, played by local actors Julianne Howe and Matt Dennis, which meant a whole lot of extras.
Holland Resident R.T. Williams shaved his beard and mustache in order to be an extra in the 1950s-based film.
“I may end up on the cutting room floor,” he joked, “but it was such an interesting experience.”
“I love the era of the 1950s,” said Gina Boscarino about being a part of the film. “It was a chance to dress up in costumes and have fun. I was so excited about a new experience.”
Ruth Ann Molenaar gets ready for the “Horizon” shoot. (Colleen Pierson)
For many, like Beth Schaub, it was a great opportunity to learn more about film while for others like Richard Mulligan, it was a nice opportunity to reconnect with many theater people and collaborate, especially after the past couple of years that saw theaters go dark and productions be delayed due to COVID.
“I had a chance to read the script,” said local actress Ruth Ann Molenaar. “I’m the only other black performer. I wanted to be part of it.”
Of course, there is always that chance that being an extra could lead to something bigger.
“Who knows maybe Quentin Tarantino might see this and see me,” said Rod Zammaron, jokingly.
Postproduction is going on now and some additional filming will be done in the next few weeks. Lewis’s film, “Horizon” along with the other two, John Philben’s “No Trip for Biscuits,” which is set in the 1930s and Kyle Misak’s “Drive,” which is based in the 1980s, will be available on WKTV and on the station’s video on demand service this fall.
The Chickasaw Nation Productions’ documentary “First Encounter” from the Chickasaw Heritage Series will air at 5 p.m., Thursday, April 29 in Wyoming, Michigan, on WKTV Community Access Channel 25 and online at WKTV.org.
The Chickasaw Heritage Series is a video project initiative from Chickasaw Nation Productions designed to inform, educate and entertain audiences about the resilient and persevering spirit of the Chickasaw Nation.
“First Encounter” explores the actions taken by Chickasaws in 1541 during their first contact with Europeans. The documentary highlights the encounters, struggles and perseverance of the Chickasaw people throughout the attempted conquest by Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto.
This encounter helped establish the reputation for which the tribe would be recognized for centuries and remains today – “unconquered and unconquerable.”
Chickasaw curriculum
Both Chickasaw Heritage Series “First Encounter” and “Bearer of the Morning” documentaries have been incorporated into an online curriculum produced by the Chickasaw Nation for elementary and secondary school levels. These and other lessons are available to homeschool and public school educators by visiting Chickasaw.net/AtHome.
These lessons might also interest anyone looking to dig deeper into the history and culture of the Chickasaw people, with reference materials and photographs presented much like a textbook.
Every lesson of the Chickasaw Nation curriculum is aligned with Oklahoma Academic Standards as outlined by the Oklahoma State Department of Education social studies guide.
Areas of study include history, social studies, geography and government. Students who dive into these studies will develop skills including reading, writing, critical thinking, test taking and artistic creation.
Each lesson is complete with its own lesson plan, reading material, discussion questions, student activity and reference list for convenience. This material can be easily incorporated into any educational setting.
Mel Trotter Ministries partnering with Celebration! Cinema, will host red carpet event to raise awareness, support for rescue mission
Based on the New York Times bestselling book, Paramount Pictures and Pure Flix Entertainment will release the blockbuster film Same Kind of Different as Me in theatres nationwide on October 20, 2017. In addition, Mel Trotter Ministries (MTM) is hosting a Grand Rapids exclusive, pre-release red carpet charity event at Celebration! Cinema on October 18, 2017, in order to raise awareness and support for the rescue mission.
Same Kind of Different as Me (PG-13) is the true story of international art dealer Ron Hall (Greg Kinnear), who befriends a dangerous homeless man (Djimon Hounsou) in hopes of saving his struggling marriage to Debbie (Renée Zellweger), a woman whose dreams will lead all three of them on the most remarkable journey of their lives. Jon Voight plays Hall’s father, with whom he reconciles thanks to the revelations of his new life.
With much of the story taking place at a rescue mission, MTM has joined rescue missions across the country by hosting the pre-release red carpet event. These events were created to help organizations break down the misconceptions of homelessness and increase support. The ultimate goal of these events, as inspired by the powerful messages found in the film, is to inspire people in Grand Rapids to build relationships with people who are not like them.
Event: Same Kind of Different as Me: Grand Rapids Movie Premiere
Creative teens can learn professional filmmaking and acting techniques and make a movie in a week during Compass College of Cinematic Arts’ summer Film and Acting Camps. These fast-paced, hands-on camps give high school students a glimpse into the real world of multimedia production and on-camera acting.
Both camps run June 19-23, and registration is open to teens ages 13-18. In Film Camp, students work with industry professionals and state-of-the art film equipment to write, direct, and edit their own short film. Meanwhile, students in the Acting Camp are cast in these films, and spend the week refining their on-camera acting techniques. At the end of the week, students walk the red carpet and their films premiere for friends and family in the theater at Compass College.
“Film camp was a great first look at the industry,” said John LeFan, former film camper and 2013 Compass College alumnus. “It’s a great starter program to get your feet wet. I was immediately hooked.”
The camps are designed for students with little to no film and acting experience. The instructors at Compass College make the process fun and as similar to a real-life production set as possible.
“Learning how to act on camera and having a role in a real short film was the most fun I’ve ever had at a camp,” said 2016 camper Rian Turner. “I enjoyed it so much that I’m coming back again this summer!”
The film campers go behind-the-scenes of the movie-making process to learn screenwriting, cinematography, lighting, camera, audio engineering, editing and much more—all while working with the actors in the acting camp! The acting students walk through the same process a real celebrity would use to learn their role for a new movie. They practice improvisation, master different acting techniques, audition for roles, rehearse their script, and discuss costume design. Then it all comes together in front of the camera.
“It’s a great opportunity for the campers to learn the filmmaking process in a creative and fun way,” said Joshua Courtade, Film Camp instructor and award-winning screenwriter, “The film students get to collaborate with the acting students and the results are some very fun short films.”
Over the years, campers have had the opportunity to Skype with Hollywood actors and producers like Beau Wirick, Mark Clayman, and Ralph Winter who have worked on the sets of shows like NCIS, The Office, and Arrested Development, and produced feature films such as, Pursuit of Happyness, X-Men, and X-Men Origins.
Space in the camps is limited so early registration is recommended. For more information, call Compass College at 616-988-1000, or visit online at www.compass.edu.
The dean of Stratford Wellington sells his school to potential students.
Stratford Wellington defines prestigious with its top-notch professors, some of whom have earned Noble Prizes and more than 3,000 activities from birdwatching to the debate team. And with only 13,000 attendees, anyone should feel honored to be accepted.
However freshman Calvin feels only the pressure to not only to succeed but to do so exceptionally. And to Calvin, he could possible do that if he didn’t have to deal with his drugged out roommate Trevor.
Thus is the basis of Indie producer Matt Whitney’s film “4.0” or “How I Killed My Roommate for Better Grades” which will be the featured film at WKTV’s Midnite Movie on Saturday, May 27.
“Darkly funny and full of twists and turns, ‘4.0’ explores the struggle of depression, the rigors of higher education, and the dangers of secrets,” Whitney said.
“4.0” started as a project pitch by Whitney and some college friends. Time constraints did produce what the group wanted and the concept sat until last year, when Whitney was able to write a script he felt conveyed the message he wanted to share.
“It’s both a commentary on the sometimes sorry state of higher education, and a study of the different ways depression manifests in people,” Whitney said a 2016 Kickstarter description. “This is a story I need to tell. It deals with issues very personal to me. Depression is a daily issue for me, and far from this film being an exotic form of therapy, it is a way to show those who have never struggled with depression what it really is, and to give a voice to people who struggle with it now.”
The evening of Monday, May 15 was balmy, and as the sun slowly sank over the Grand River at JW Marriot’s 616 Cabana in downtown Grand Rapids, Mich., the 6th Annual Eclipse Award nominees reveled in being recognized for their talent and hard work in filmmaking. The mood: shimmering anticipation.
WKTV spoke with 14 talented filmmakers — out of a total of more than 90 nominees — all of whom had one thing in common: being among the best talent in West Michigan.
Here is what they had to say.
Talon Rudel
Talon Rudel
Nominated for two awards — Best Narrative Feature and Best Direction in a Feature or Short — for his 8-minute film, Doorways, Talon Rudel hails from the east side of the state. He co-produced the nominated film last summer along with a talented team for a 36-hour film competition.
“It was surreal,” Rudel said of hearing about his nomination. “I’ve seen so many other people get nominated and they’re so good, so when I got nominated, I thought, ‘Wait, what?’ It felt like it was out of the blue.”
Rudel’s future plans are to write and direct features, and although he has no specific destination in mind, he does know that he wants to be where he can make his goal happen.
Johnny DeMarco
Johnny DeMarco
Nominated for Best Acting in a Lead Role for his portrayal of ‘Tommy’ in Confidence of a Tall Man, Johnny DeMarco has been acting for 6 years and nearly snagged a role on The Sopranos (yes, that Sopranos).
“It all happened on a whim,” DeMarco said. “I took a trek to New York and hung out in the bars where the series was filmed.”
The actor enjoys a bit of notoriety in his hometown of Lansing. In addition to acting, he’s been in real estate for 30 years and owns Paisano’s Restaurant.
“I wear many hats and the endeavors all blend together,” he said. “It’s very exciting to be nominated for this award. I am very humbled.”
Troy Randall-Kilpatrick
Troy Randall-Kilpatrick
Nominated for Best Acting in a Lead Role for his work in the short film, Beggar’s Remorse, actor, writer and producer (Crooked Limb Studio & Productions) Troy Randall-Kilpatrick has been acting on stage and in film, primarily in Michigan, for over 20 years.
In Beggar’s Remorse, Randall-Kilpatrick plays ‘John’, an extremely dark character, which prompted fellow actor and fianceé, Heather Fairbanks to say that she was both horrified and extremely impressed.
“He’s a gifted actor,” said Fairbanks, who is currently working with Randall-Kilpatrick on the film, Descending.
Of receiving the nomination, Randall-Kilpatrick said, “I thought it was wonderful. I’m pleased and happy. It’s a first-class awards show and a tremendous honor to be nominated.”
Heather Fairbanks
Heather Fairbanks
Written and directed by Rhodes Short, and co-produced by Short and Heather Fairbanks, Who Will Move the Stone is nominated for Best Narrative Feature. Representing the film at the event was Fairbanks, who has been acting since the age of 3.
“I grew up on the stage,” Fairbanks said. “I enjoy acting in diverse roles.”
Fairbanks said that she’s enjoyed traveling with the film to festivals throughout the U.S., and the film has won numerous awards along the way.
“I’m really honored that a faith-based film would be recognized in a secular film festival,” Fairbanks said. “It surprises people. It’s not a cookie-cutter Christian film.”
Sheri Beth Dusek
Sheri Beth Dusek
Nominated for Best Acting in a Lead Role for her portrayal of ‘Jayne Russo’ in Two Guns and a Body Bag, Sheri Beth Dusek said, “I was surprised. I’ve acted for 25 years — many years in theatre — and I’ve never been recognized. It’s nice to be recognized.”
Although acting is her first love, Dusek has been working on the producing end of the biz for the past two years and finds that aspect exciting and fun. She divides her time between Grand Rapids and Los Angeles.
“I’m absolutely loving it,” she said. “I wake up in L.A. and ask myself, ‘Is this my life right now? Meeting with producers?’”
Jason Ley and Ben Wilke
Jason Ley and Ben Wilke
Nominated for Best Local TV & Cable (30-minute time slot), Modern Ahabs is a travel beer show produced by Jason Ley and Ben Wilke. Ley is nominated for Best Writing in Produced Content (Documentary or Promo Piece) and Wilke is nominated for Best Sound Design and Best Direction (Documentary or Promo Piece) for the same project as well.
For those not in the know, Captain Ahab hunted the great white whale in Herman Melville’s Moby-Dick. In a similar fashion, Modern Ahabs follows the hunt for the elusive craft beer.
“It’s a show for the craft beer enthusiast who is working on fulfilling a bucket list of beers,” said Ley, who admitted to not knowing how he wanted the pilot to be filmed. He put his full trust in co-producer Wilke, who has a ton of experience behind the camera.
Because craft beers can be fleeting, Ley and Wilke are at the mercy of a beer’s release. They had a quick, three-week turnaround time for filming the pilot.
“I was surprised that it was nominated. I had no idea it would turn into four Eclipse Award nominations,” said Ley. So far, the pilot has also won four Tellys and is nominated for an Emmy Award.
Jeff Morgan
Jeff Morgan
Hailing from Traverse City, Jeff Morgan co-produced Healing with Horses with Amber Elliott. The piece is nominated for Best Documentary (less than 20 minutes).
The documentary shares the journey of Kelsey Secor, who was partially disabled in 2015 after her car went off the road and hit several trees over the July 4th weekend. Secor’s rehabilitation included equine therapy at Karin’s Horse Connection and Legacy Stables in Caledonia, Mich., the setting for much of the documentary.
“I’m super excited,” Morgan said of being nominated. He plans on pitching the documentary to Netflix.
Angela Peavey
Angela Peavey
“It’s always an honor to be nominated,” said Angela Peavey, who produced Saugatuck Center for the Arts Theatre Promo, which was nominated for Best Online Programs, Segments or Promotional Pieces.
“I went on YouTube to see what the caliber of nominations was like and it’s amazing! Even if I don’t win, I can’t complain because the people are phenomenal.”
The project has been nominated for an Emmy award as well.
Peavey is currently busy with post-production on A Parent’s Worst Nightmare and recently became a full partner of Be Your Own Hollywood Production Company.
Peavey acknowledged that women are scarce in the male-dominated film industry.
“To be a woman filmmaker, you have to be tenacious and create your own magic,” she said. “You can’t wait for someone to open the door for you.”
David Huizingh
David Huizingh
Nominated for Best Cinema Trailer, David Huizingh’s project, Migration, began as a capstone project for a film class at GVSU.
“It felt wonderful to be nominated,” said Huizingh. “It’s a huge privilege to be here networking with others.”
Huizingh works in a “nerdy” field — virtual reality — at Steelcase, and he feels very lucky to be doing what he’s doing. He enjoys being active in the 3-D community, too.
Thom Bell
Thom Bell
Nominated for Best Local and Regional Segments and Promotional Pieces (under 20 minutes) for his work on WMFVA Sound Designer, Thom Bell is satisfied just to be in the circle of talent that make up the 6th Annual Eclipse Awards.
“Whether I win is not as important as navigating among these folks,” Bell said.
WMFVA Sound Designer was a collaboration between WMFVA and Celebration! Cinema. The piece plays prior to the start of a feature film (at Celebration! Cinema).
“It was really well received,” said Bell. “People in the theatre really liked it, and they were surprised to learn that films were still being made in Michigan.”
Kevin Kammeraad
Kevin Kammeraad
Nominated for Best Music Video Original Performance, Kevin Kammeraad’s piece, Inquiring Minds, was a family affair — Kammeraad produced the video and did the original song and puppetry. His wife, children and cousins all worked on the piece, which is par for the course — his family is always involved in his endeavors.
“I am delighted,” Kammeraad said of being nominated for an Eclipse Award. “It’s always reassuring when someone recognizes your work.”
Working as an independent artist creating books, music and poetry, the project is all part of Kammeraad’s goal: to inspire kids’ creativity and spark ideas.
Kyle Misak and Don Chase
Kyle Misak and Don Chase
Receiving not one, not two, but 8 nominations, Kyle Misak said, “It’s cool to be nominated among your colleagues.”
Misak’s feature film, Another Brick in the Wall is nominated for Best Narrative Feature, Best Direction, Best Editing (Feature or Short), and Best Screenplay (Feature or Short). Co-produced with Don Chase, Misak’s short film, Crazy Carl, is nominated for Best Narrative Short, Best Direction (Feature or Short), Best Editing (Feature or Short), and Best Screenplay (Feature or Short).
Said Chase of the multitude of nominations, “It doesn’t surprise me — Kyle is creative, talented and passionate. I’ve worked with him five years. The whole team is solid. When you’ve got a good team, you get nominated for awards. It’s about our whole team, not just us.”
Right now, the two are working on Eden Theory, a psychological thriller. They plan on making more films.
“It doesn’t stop,” said Chase. “When one’s done, it’s time to do another.”
Erik Sebert
Erik Sebert
A May 2016 graduate of Ferris State University, Erik Sebert said, “I’m confident about my work, but it’s awesome to be nominated. I was surprised — it felt really good.”
Sebert’s piece, Space Scavenger is nominated for Best Animation.
Sebert works at Tech World producing spec graphics, and he’s on the lookout for a job as a 3-D model environmental artist.
“More and more, I’m becoming a 3-D generalist,” he said.
Ken Orlich
Ken Orlich
Nominated for Best Acting in a Supporting Role for his portrayal of ‘Teddy’ in Confidence of a Tall Man, Ken Orlich has 20 years of acting experience under his belt — in comedy, public access and voice work.
“This is the first time I’ve been nominated for an award,” said Orlich. “I really was surprised. Working with Mike (McCallum), you know what you do with him gets out there — he makes sure people see it. Win or lose, I’m definitely happy.”
Orlich wants to keep working with McCallum and is starting a new production company in Lansing. In addition to acting, he has a background in engineering and farming.
The 6th Annual Eclipse Awards are on their way to a record number of entries, and there are just three days left to enter: Deadline is 5 pm Monday, March 27.
Michigan is hopping with serious content creators and WKTV’s Digital Cinema Program, the WMFVA, Ferris State University, Compass College of Cinematic Arts and the West Michigan Film Office are all sponsors of Michigan’s only competition for film, television, online and the crafts that support them.
Sixty judges from a vast array of disciplines in Grand Rapids, Los Angeles and New York will see your work, whether or not you’re screening in any of these cities.
Viewing and voting begins March 30. The announcement of nominations is April 17 at 7 pm. Go hereto enter.
The Saugatuck Center for the Arts and AWARE will host a co-fundraising event on Saturday, Sept. 17, at 6 p.m. The fundraiser benefits AWARE’s scholarship fund and the SCA’s internship programs. The event, at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 Culver Street, features cash bar and appetizers along with a screening of Tab Hunter: Confidential. Tickets are $25 and can be reserved at sc4a.org or 269-857-2399.
Guests can mingle under the SCA’s pavilion from 6 – 7 p.m., then adjourn to the theater and have an opportunity to meet AWARE scholarship winners and SCA interns.
The acclaimed documentary “Tab Hunter: Confidential” will then be screened. Called on of the “Top 10 Best LGBTQ-Themed Films of 2015” by Big Gay Picture Show, Tab Hunter: Confidential follows the movie star and his struggles to hide his sexuality during his years of stardom. This documentary, directed by award-winning filmmaker Jeffery Schwartz, tells Hunter’s turbulent and inspiring story.
SCA Executive Director Kristin Armstrong explained that the two non-profits worked together on the screening of Saugatuck Cures last summer and decided to continue the partnership. “We had positive feedback from guests about the co-fundraiser,” Armstrong said. “The event gives us an opportunity to raise funds for the important educational work both organizations are doing and to showcase key young professionals.”
AWARE President Jim Renberg added, “We’re excited to share a short film about two recent AWARE scholarship recipients at the event. The film was made by SCA intern Chelsie Bender. We love highlighting these students and sharing their stories with the community.”
Calling West Michigan’s best and brightest producers, directors, actors, writers, and film makers to submit their entries for the 2015 Eclipse Awards.
The Eclipse Awards honors content creators for Excellence in Craft in the disciplines of film, television, video, acting, sound, music and writing. Created by WKTV Community Television and Media as a means of empowering the West Michigan “voice” of content creators, the Eclipse Awards has become the big event for the creative community.
“There really are a large number of content creators here who are either fully established and enjoy the recognition, or who are just starting out and have that spark of genius with a great idea,” said Tom Norton, General Manager of WKTV.
Last year marked a new record with 70 entries for the 4th installment of the awards. This year, the event is expecting around 100 entries
With the West Michigan Film & Video Alliance as the judging sponsor, judges from London, England, Toronto, Canada, New York City and Los Angeles will pour over this year’s entries and select nominees in each category.
“We’re tremendously pleased to be working with the WMFVA,” said Norton. “They really believe in the importance of West Michigan having regional awards recognition to help foster the creative spirit. The democratization of media over the last few decades has really given voice to a much wider array of creativity and WKTV wants to see it grow and expand.”
Entries are being accepted now through March 11, 2016. More information can be found on the website at www.theeclipseaward.com or by calling 616-269.5700. Entries are $35/Adults and $15/High school students.
The nominees will be announces on March 28, 2016. The awards show will be televised live at the City Flats Hotel Ballroom on Thursday, April 28.
In a world where food and film are the modern expressions of culture, the Grand Rapids Downtown Market and the UICA announce “Big Screen Cuisine,” an interactive culinary and cinematic experience that seeks to bring dishes to life that are inspired by classic and modern foodie film favorites and accompanied by a same-day movie screening.“Big Screen Cuisine” makes its debut on Sunday, September 27. Ticket prices will vary and will allow attendees to engage in a hands-on, top-level culinary food experience with fantastic food from local chefs. Attendees will also have the opportunity to tour the UICA, relax in the theatre, and watch the paired movie with a new and very personal understanding of all the culinary scenes they’re viewing. Depending on the experience, the culinary portion of the night may fall before or after the screenings.“Big Screen Cuisine will utilize films from all over the world while exploring diverse cultures and food histories through hands-on connection and interaction,” said Mimi Fritz, president and CEO of the Downtown Market. “Our goal is to help educate cooks of all ages and experience by bringing to life the flavors from the big screen.”Over the course of the year-round, once-monthly film series, guests will be treated to various lessons in creating delicacies such as chocolate, pastries, cocktails, French cuisine as well as wine tastings and charcuterie, an all-ages cooking class and even an occasional succulent chef’s dinner.
“UICA and the Downtown Market are creating a deliberate connection between the sights and sounds of the film experience with the tastes and aromas of the local food culture,” said Miranda Krajniak, executive director of the UICA. “Audiences can explore the UICA and broaden their knowledge of not only art, but food, film and how they translate into a unified experience.”
The acclaimed documentary “Tab Hunter: Confidential” will then be screened. Called on of the “Top 10 Best LGBTQ-Themed Films of 2015” by Big Gay Picture Show, Tab Hunter: Confidential follows the movie star and his struggles to hide his sexuality during his years of stardom. This documentary, directed by award-winning filmmaker Jeffery Schwartz, tells Hunter’s turbulent and inspiring story.
