YADDO is a revolutionary media development. It's an online platform with SVOD and pay per view dedicated to the best of documentary and factual film. It's for the people who crave reality. The truth about docs is that not enough people see them, and they are often not available at all.
I was consulting producer, & also a featured subject. For those of you wondering, consulting producer means I provided the majority of the people that they interviewed. I had worked with the editor three years ago as a consultant to his screenplay called "Word of Bond" written by Eric Gross. A comedy screenplay written about a bail bond agency in San Bernardino area.
The shooting started early at 7:30 in the morning with the first talent who was Laura, also known as "Loca" from Sangra in the San Gabriel Valley or SGV. Her story was touching and compelling. What she has been through, and to hear it, and how far she's come, was an experience in and of itself.
The set was in Los Angeles, and it was a beautiful studio. The craft table was filled with coffee, bagels and cream cheese, fruit, pastries, muffins, granola bars, an over abundance of food.
We filmed subject after subject. Keep in mind we had a full set of lighting. No air conditioning because for the audio we had to have silence. We could not have any windows or doors open because there's always a plane or helicopter or a siren going on. It gets very warm! In between each subject of course we would blast the air conditioning.
We took a break for lunch and the production company provided a full spread of Mexican food from la salsa. All kinds of burritos, guacamole & chips with salsa..beef, chicken, vegetarian, again an over abundance of food. Chocolate and pretzels and chips, cookies, and more fruit and red Bulls and Gatorade's and waters and sodas and juices, it was ridiculous.
I sat there and listened to four of my clients tell their stories. I was amazed to hear what they had to say. I got insight on their childhood, their parenting or complete lack of it. I heard stories of police brutality, drug abuse, child abuse, being in a position of not knowing. I was touched by their stories. To say I was touched is putting it lightly. These people that have come full circle are true heroes amongst us. One subject was a former CIA agent who ended up doing time in federal prison for his duties while working for our country. Absolutely amazing stories every single one of them!
The documentary was not about people that have turned their lives around! It was not a prerequisite to be sober or to be off of parole. There was no judgment in this documentary film. It just so happened that my clients like I have always said, for the most part are very good people.
It was the best experience! One of my clients was such a sensation in his delivery and his story, which was sad, compelling, heartbreaking, mixed with his hilarious way of telling it! He actually got a round of applause from the crew!
I personally made sure that everybody that came through for me yesterday got paid. I do not like asking people to do things for free, not only because their time is worth it, but I may need to ask you again.
I will be sure to announce when this documentary film is available for viewing. I want to thank everybody for yesterday. Thank you to Jib Polhemus, Executive Producer , Eric Gross, Editor. Laura aka "Loca" from SGV. "Convict", "pan head Ed", & "John" for sharing their stories with us. The crew was super cool to work with as well. The audio, lighting, hair and make up, Producer's assistant, directors assistant, grips & gaffers! It was a kick ass day!
Have a beautiful Sunday everyone, and thank you for reading my blog.
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