Iano Films™ blog

2/16/06


Pre-Production begins
Justin Melnick (Production Assistant), Julie Bley (Production Assistant), Jonathan Rola (Writer/Director)


3/1/06

Several key crew roles have been filled. We will continue to add volunteers for the crew. To find out what is still needed, please contact Michael. Casting is the next big thing for pre-production. Casting auditions will begin in April. Check back soon for the exact dates of the audtions. In the meantime, please contact Jonathan for more information. We are still hoping to obtain college credit for volunteering students. Check back soon for updates on internships. We will be selling Iano Films™ t-shirts via the website very soon. We decided to sell t-shirts to help raise funds to meet our budgetary targets. The t-shirts will be on sale for $8. They will also be purchasable from one of the Iano Films™ members and some volunteers. We hope to release the name of the movie this month. The "final" version of the script is near completion. Once the copyright is submitted we will announce the name of the movie and give a brief synopsis.


4/5/06

The University of the Arts career fair Yesterday, Iano Films™ attended the The University of the Arts (Uarts) Future Fair 2006 to offer student internships for cast and crew. Those that attended the event on behalf of Iano™ were Jonathan Rola, Michael Leary, Justin Melnick, and Julie Bley. Overall, it was a successful day. We have arranged for Uarts to offer college credit for Aspire™ student interns. We hope to establish internship credit with additional local colleges. Please contact Jonathan for more information about college credit and internships.


The Futures Fair at The University of the Arts
Michael Leary (Cinematographer), Jonathan Rola (Writer/Director), Justin Melnick (Production Assistant), Julie Bley (Production Assistant)


4/15/06

There are still important acting roles available. We hope to complete casting soon. Those interest should send their resume and a headshot as soon as possible. Also, the final script is complete. The title and website for Iano Films'™ first motion picture will be announced here on our site in approximately 10 days.


5/18/06


Location Scouting
Mingo Rola (Associate Producer), Jonathan Rola (Director), Victor Morgado (Body Shop Owner), Justin Melnick (Production Assistant), Julie Bley (Production Assistant), Michael Leary (Cinematographer).


5/22/06

Today we have offically changed our name from Aspire Entertainement Group to Iano Films™. The change was necessary to avoid potential trademark conflicts. After much debate and reflection, we decided on Iano Films™. To go along with the new name is a new design and company image. Hopefully it works. For information on the name change, please contact Marco at marco@ianofilms.com.


6/1/06

And the title of the August production is "the matter with Clark."

Because of the change of name and conversion to the new website, we delayed the release of the title of Iano Films'™ first motion picture. Additionally, we had to wait for filing of the copyright. Everything remains on track for the August 10th commencement production date.

We are still in the midst of casting for the picture. The cast/crew call page has a detailed character breakdown. If you have not yet been in contact with Jonathan about a role, we ask that you please contact him as soon as possible. Additionally, there may still be some crew necessities. For crew, contact Michael. Check back soon for additional information on audition dates and other pre-production information.


7/6/06

Today Iano Films™ held auditions for "the matter with Clark" at the Hampton Inn in Bensalem, PA. Significant progress was made on casting. All candidates will be notified within one week. Thanks for all of those that auditioned for the feature.


7/20/06

After a long process of searching for our star actor, we are proud to announce Jamie Layden as Clark Thomas [He's Awesome].




8/1/06

Every major cast and crew role has been filled. We are still in need of fill-ins for extras and minor roles. Most of the minor roles that are still availble have been auditioned for and are close to being casted. If you have any interest in being an extra, please contact Jonathan as soon as possible. Production kick-off is set for August 10.


8/7/06

With only 3 days to go until production kick-off, we were at the first location the last couple of days re-arranging furniture. Clark's room, which is the grandmother's converted living room, required quite a bit of effort to be spruced up. Most notably it was adding a couch. Jon wanted to use a couch that his grandparent's left him but it was too big. After Marco and Jamie, aka Clark Thomas, struggled for a couple of hours to get the over-sized couch up the steps and through the hallway, it became evident that the couch refused to squeeze through the tiny entrance. Jon insisted that he needed the couch in the picture. Therefore, using our wits, we decided to chainsaw the couch in half, move it into the living room, and re-attach it. Mingo Rola, Jon's dad, used his carpentry skills to complete the task. It worked!

Mingo Rola and Mike begin sawing the couch.


The couch has been cut and re-attach as one. Here, Mingo and Mike relax after a job well-done.



August 9

Tomorrow we begin the production of ‘the matter with Clark.’ We do so with much excitement and a bit of anxiety. Jon and Mike have the experience necessary to complete this project. Jon has the vision and passion to make this movie a good one. Yet, none of us knows exactly how it everything will turn out.

Hopefully it will work. We are three best friends who now work together for a unified goal.

I plan to post a blog entry each day. Some days I will not to be able to post the daily entry on the specific day. My goal is to get as many cast and crew as possible to post an entry. Unfortunately, Jon and Mike will have greater worried and time commitments so it might not be possible to get their daily entry. Anyway, I hope people enjoy the blog and can one day reminisce as they read through the production process.

- Marco


August 10 - Week 1, Day 1

About 10:30
I wasn't sure how I would feel on the first day of shooting, but I found myself completely relaxed and confident. Jamie drove to my apartment and we then drove together to the production location. I felt really comfortable with Jamie and neither of us were nervous. Normally, I'm nervous on the first day.

I get to the location and see all the equipment. I started to feel that it was really happening; it was to life. Mike was setting up camera and already had first scene ready to shoot.

I was confident in all three actors that day: Jamie, Gracie, and Maggie. The only thing I wasn’t sure of was how they interact with each other. Maggie had the first line of shooting and it was absolutely perfect. A major reassurance. Gracie, while I knew she was very talented, blew me away with her persona and talent.

I didn’t have time to truly stand back and reflect that our picture, that was vivid in my mind, was all of sudden becoming reality and being shared with everyone on set.

- Jonathan


Jon and Gracie working together for the first time.


Jon focuses to make sure he is getting the perfect picture.

Day 1 Review
Beginning of the day, I first got to the site not expected what to expect from Art and Kris, my production assistants, but was blown away by their commitment and patience. The work was very physical. Much different than my project in Italy, when I had almost unlimited resources at my disposal. Art is hilarious. We kept hearing sly comments coming from the boom. Though the work was tough, I never heard on complaint.

At the end of the night, I was drained but still couldn’t sleep because of the adrenaline still pumping through me.

- Michael


Mike prepping for the next shot.


Mike, Art, Gracie, and Kris framing the scene.


August 11 - Week 1, Day 2

Around midnight
Jon and Jamie are preparing the wardrobe for the following scene we they realize that Jamie hasn’t worn the Clark wristwatch the entire day. As you can imagine, this causes a bit of anxiety in Jon, who now must figure out the possible effects when all the scenes are put together. Jon informs Mike and I as we are preparing the cameras and lights for the next scene. After a half-hour of debating and analyzing what to do, Jon concludes that he can fix the problem by eliminating the watch from preceding and following scenes from the scenes we completed today or by reshooting a couple of scenes.

It is a thing like this that filmmakers agonize over and the audience later has no clue as to the meticulous detail and awareness it takes to complete a movie.


Jon and his speakerphone as Maggie observes.


August 12 - Week 1, Day 3

1:47 p.m.
My first scene of the day was a wake up scene in my overly loose underwear. I can sacrifice for my career. I should mention that I was wearing the same underwear from the previous day. Not because of what you might think of me after that statement, but rather because in a scene we had already shot yesterday of me in that pair of underwear. Also, I should mention that THEY WERE VERY SHORT AND REVEALING. I actually had to put tape on the inside of them so my “tomatoes” wouldn't roll out during the scene. But all is well, and it appropriately pulling the tape off which had found itself able to attach to a few hairs. I realize that when I pulled it off. The movie business is tough.

- Clark Thomas


Jamie listening to Jon.

3:05 p.m.
Lunch from Taco Bell. A few hours of sleep and Taco Bell, such a healthy lifestyle we are all living these days.

4:12 p.m.
Today was gone unusually efficient. I say that only because the first two days went much longer than expected. Expected being a relative thing, since it was the first days and Jon wasn’t quite how long each scene would take. But with two full days under our belts, we are now able to move quicker and more effectively.


Jon lays the comforter on Jamie for the shot.


"Good morning Clark!"


August 13 - Week 1, Day 4

Day 4 Review
The highlight of Day 4 is our 3:30 a.m. shoot at the Great American Diner in Langhorne, Pennsylvania. It was amazing to see the commitment of everyone, especially those that are volunteering their time. Kris, who is a crew volunteer, had worked with us on Saturday and then left for his “paying” job. Yet, while tired from a long day of work, Kris arrived at the Great American Diner right on time and stayed with all of us until 7 a.m. This is only one example of the kind of commitment we are getting from the crew and cast, but there are many more.

We only shot one scene at the dinner but it was excruciatingly difficult. First, it was waiting for the booths we need to clear out from the late night munchies the residents of the booths were having. Then it was the music and banging of pots and pans coming from the kitchen. With each obstacle we found a solution. However, unfortunately we had no solution for a drunken 40-something year-old male who decided to walk onto the closed area screaming out, “Hey, you guys filming a movie? Will it be on TV?” To which Tim quickly snarled, “What the hell are you doing man?”


Shooting late into the night.


Just a few of the people needed to make this movie.


Jamie, Maggie, and Tim review their lines one last time.


"Who is this guy?"


Jack and Clark chillin.


Jon explaining to Tim and Jamie what to do.


Matt acting like he is enjoying doing setup.


Talking about what to order for dinner.


At 7 a.m., Kris finally gets to pack up and go home.


The late night crew: Amanda, Jamie, Marco, Jon, Tim, Matt, and Mike.


August 14 - Week 1, Day 5

Day 5 Review
This night shooting was a good one. Though late, 1 a.m., things went as smooth as possible, given the circumstances. The crew all worked together very well, and diligently at that, producing a product that is sure to set the tone for the rest of the shoot, and a camaraderie to boot. There were a couple of events that took place during the first couple days that were unexpected, and being so, added to the creativity among the group.


Nathan showing Jon how he plans to pan the camera as Amie watches.

After working with Jon and Mike during Safe as Milk five years ago, as well as being good friends with them, I know that this is going to be an amazing shoot and that the product will turn out great. I have a lot of faith in them, as filmmakers and friends and I know that this is only the beginning. Since it's conceptualization four years ago I have believed that this film is going to make waves, and what better group to bring the surf than Jon, Mike, and Marco.

Holla!!!

- Jack Cooper


August 17 - Week 2, Day 6

Day 6 Review
After a much needed two days off, the cast and crew were back in Ambler shooting the remaining scenes inside the house of Ann Thomas. Since this was our last day indoors, Jon decided to reshoot the scenes in which Clark didn't wear his watch. It is particularly difficult to shoot upstairs because of the heat. The boom picks up every sound so we must turn off the air conditioner, causing it to be very stuffy and hot during shooting. Yet every one has been a trooper, especially Maggie Farley, as you can see below.


Maggie trying to cool off in between takes.


Grandma having some tea.


August 18 - Week 2, Day 7

Day 7 Review
Today was a late night. We were at the house until 4:00 a.m. All the scenes were out-door so we didn't get started till about 7 p.m. The final shot required the use of a 30 foot crane hanging over Clark and Linden as the lay on a blankey under the night sky. The lighting was extremely difficult but finally we were able to get it right. At least we think we got it.


Gracie is all smiles as she hangs out the window.


Clark and Linden lay together under the night stars and a large crane with a camera attached.


A difficult shot and setting for a few seconds of footage.


August 19 - Week 2, Day 8

About 2:30
We just finished shooting at a local boarding school. We did both inside and outside shots. Principal Peirce, played by Luke Titus, made his acting debut in this scene. Although by his performance, you would never guess he is a rookie actor. Jon and Mike found Luke while eating at the Great American Dinner and reviewing potential cast. Jon saw Luke sitting with his family and stated that they needed a scool principal that looked like the the father with his family. So, why not just get him? Mike approached Luke and talked about the picture and the role. Luke told Mike he always wanted to do some acting and work in the entertainment industry, thus our school principal was found.


Jon helping Mike frame the camera.


August 20 - Week 2, Day 9

1:30
Today is a two-part shot. This morning we shot at Siren Records in Doylestown, PA. Blair, from Siren Records, was nice enough to give us permission to shoot in the store. Blair even came to the store at 9:00 a.m. to open the door for us despite not opening till noon. There were simple scenes and we were happen to get out of there pretty early so we can catch up on sleep this afternoon before heading to Sean Gross's house for additional scenes.


Jon reviewing the tape at Siren Records.


Mary smiles for the camera.

About 11:30 p.m.
This was Sean's first acting gig, not that anyone watching could tell. In fact, I'll come out and say it: "Sean, you're a terrible liar, we all know you've been acting since the age of 5."


Sean prepares for his first shot.


Mike and Nathan prep for a motion shot.


"Slate, please."


Jon loves the "all-american" garage.


A free t-shirt for whomever can guess who that is.


Sean adjusting to get the frame correct.


August 21 - Week 2, Day 10

About 1:30 a.m.
Finally we come to the last day of week 2. Again, everyone is in need of a break. But tonight was the best night so far. We had the opportunity to shot outside the Doylestown County Theater, the place we plan to have a closed screening to the cast and crew. Doylestown police were extremely helpful and arranged to block of the street in front of the theater.

A number of Jon's family members came out to watch as Andrea was making her acting debut. It was a simple scene yet everyone had lots of fun. On set were Jon's mom, Luisa, and her husband Gene. Along with Jon's dad and producer, Mingo Rola and his wife Mena. Mena is the aunt of Andrea, so joing her was Andrea's mom, dad, and brother.

We shot despite a number of people entering and leaving the late shows at theater. I was paranoid about getting extras in the shots because I didn't have release forms for everyone therefore we had to be patient to clear the area and then block oncomers. There were a number of people throughout the night who stood around watching us shot. It was great to see the people's interest in our movie. I gave out a number of business cards to people and suggested they check out the site to learn more about Iano Films and the matther with Clark. If you are one of the recipients of a business card, send me an e-mail because I'd be interested in hearing from people outside the cast and crew.


Doylestown County Theater.


Mike mounts the camera as Marco begs him to be careful so as to not lose our investment. Insurance anyone?


Clark picks up his sister and her friends as Jack flirts with them in between scenes.


Jon's family; our biggest fans.


Jon reviews the scene with Gracie.


Ever notice movies often have beautiful women? Here are two: Andrea and Gracie


Reagan smiles as she gets picked up from the movies with her two best friends.


Andrea. We had to add a cute Portuguese girl in the picture.


Day 10 - It's a wrap.


August 23 - Week 3, Day 11

Noon
Today we needed to get some shots of Linden (Gracie) her brother’s car. The problem was two-fold. First, Gracie doesn’t know how to drive stick. Second, we needed a close location.< br>
Jon drove around Ambler looking for a location and finally we settled on a street nearby the Clark home. That actually solved both problems. The road Jon picked was on a slope therefore we were able to fake that Gracie was driving. We set up the camera towards the bottom of the slope. At the top of the road, several people began pushing the car while it was in neutral. The car, with Gracie in the driver’s seat, gains momentum and thereafter enters frame. Problems solved.


August 24 - Week 3, Day 12

Late afternoon
I arrived at The Café, in Pine Watson Shopping Center, Langhorne, PA, this afternoon a bit anxious to get the shots that I had envisioned. The owner, Stacie DiPiazza, helped us with the set design and was very accommodating. She even became an extra by playing a waitress.

This was the first time I dealt with kids while shooting a movie. Rickey and Brandon were a pleasure to work with. I was really impressed by how mature and intelligent they were; and their behavior was impeccable. I was much more thoughtful in my communication with the kids. But they were so smart and attentive that they made it easy for me.

Debbie Mumford, a server at The Café, also played a part and was super cool and hospitable. They welcomed us therefore it helped relax me to help. Art and Kris, our loyal crew members, even got into the action and served as background artists until Art looked directly into the camera and stopped the shoot.

- Jonathan













My sons and I also made our acting debut in 'the matter with Clark'. What a great experience! We arrived to meet Jonathan at his place and found Jamie on the sidewalk waiting also. Jamie looked after us and the boys got to play Playstation 2 until it was time for our scene. (quite an added bonus for the kids!) We followed Jamie to The Cafe' for the shoot. Here are the boys settling into position.



We got to work with Jonathan, Mike, Art, Kris, Jamie and Gracie. They're an incredible group of people. Watching them work together really showed the synergy they have. Here are a couple of shots of them prepping...



Then it was time to pack up and move to the pizza place for another scene.



Jamie was so good with the kids all day. He spent some time talking with Ricky while the crew was setting up.



Jonathan set the scene and prepped Ricky...



And that was a wrap. We said our good-bye's.

Everything was so relaxed and everyone was so pleasant. The boys were so taken and elated with the whole experience that they both want to pursue acting careers. Thanks to everyone for letting us be a part of what I am sure will be a very successful film!!!

- Beth-Anne (Mom of 'Little Boy'


August 25 - Week 3, Day 13

1:30 p.m.
What a great experience it was returning to my old Middle School and shooting scenes for our film there. The administration was extremely helpful in granting us permission to shoot there along with giving us full access to the school. We started shooting at 12:00 pm and wrapped around 9:00 P.M with a 2 hour break in-between. One scene involved Clark being chased by a janitor. I used the glidecam to run with the actors down the hall but commented to Jon and the crew that it seemed a little too shaky. Jon's father and Amie found a dolly used by the school for maintenance and suggested we use it. I climbed abord and was pulled by Jon down the hall as the actors ran toward me. The result was a beautiful shot. We realized we needed a shot chasing the actors from behind. The dollys wheels only worked well when it was pulled so we needed to find another solution. Jon's father found a teacher's chair in a classroom. I sat on it and was pushed by Jon towards the actors as they ran. It worked so smoothly that Jon was able to let me go after the push and I ended up crashing into the lockers down the hall.

- Michael


WARNING: Don't mess with the guy in charge of the cameras.

I was a little hesitant about the shot with the janitor at first because it felt odd to have a show down with a janitor in a school. But after I did the second take, I was getting into it. I haven't ran so much since I was in high school. The picture is great so far. I am happy to be apart of this whole project.

- Jamie (aka Clark Thomas)


Jon planning the shot with Mike.


Jamie and Gracie await instructions for the scene.


Like a good orchestra, everyone understands and does their thing.


Gus playing one badass janitor.


While Gus's son, Philip, plays the unsuspecting high school freshman.


August 26 - Week 3, Day 14

Nighttime
Tonight was the infamous car crash scene that everyone has been looking forward too. Jon had asked me if I knew anyone who did make-up for the bloody scene, and surprisingly I had a friend that was just who Jon was looking for. I really appreciate Key dedicating her time and efforts, as did everyone else. It felt good on my part to be able to contribute something other than my time; and to seeing how pleased Jon was, made it all worth it. We all finally got to meet the actors that play Clark's parents, which was exciting. Overall the shoot went pretty smooth. The biggest concern was with the lighting and the glares, as it is with any other scenes (especially outside). It's good to see how well everyone is working together and how fast we have all seem to become friends, despite location and age difference. I think we have the right mix of people to make this production turn out awesome, and considering the budget, this movie is going to surprise a lot of people.

- Amie


Cast and crew arrive at the park.


Clark's parents: Michael Onori and Sharon Carpenter Rose


Jon's dad telling some more "Mingo" jokes.

My 1st nite on the set was great. I met my wife , son, and daughter for the first time. We got along great as if we were a real family. I also enjoyed working with Tim (Jack), even though it was just one night. He is a very talented actor; as is Jamie, Gracie, and Sharon.

Filming in Tyler Park was awesome, especially when I found out that M. Night Shyamalan filmed a part of "SIGNS" there. I enjoyed filming the accident scene first and then coming back to life the next day at the restaurant. I have to admit that after the make-up artist got done with me, I felt like I was shooting a scene from "Night of the Living Dead". The blood tasted good though, as it dripped into my mouth (yummy!).

CHOW,

- Michael (aka Mr. Thomas)

Finally got to meet my "new" family, including my husband Michael (you know these arranged marriages usually don't work out, but we got along famously : ) At some point during the night shoot we ended up arguing about who was going to paint the imaginary white-picket fence at our imaginary house---I actually had two different crew members come up to me and ask if Michael and I were really married! Ha! (since I've been married for twenty years in real life, I've just had alot of practice, that's all...). Michael, Gracie and Jamie were lovely to work with, as well as the rest of the cast/crew/family that were present. And thanks to Jon's dad for a hot meal in the cold park!

- Sharon (aka Mrs. Thomas)


We allow the actors to take a nap.


Everyone gathers around to review the tape.


Group shot as the night concludes.


August 27 - Week 3, Day 15

Morning
Had a good time shooting the house scene with everyone. Sitting on the couch with Gracie, it struck me how much she looked like my real-life daughter at home! Jamie was a genetic anomaly though, since he is much taller than me and Michael as his "parents" (must have grown alot from all that imaginary junk food we fed him as a kid...)

Evening
Had a nice pizza dinner with my "family". After 4 or 5 takes, Michael was making me laugh because he was running out of pieces of pizza crust to angrily chew during the scene, when he is chastising our "daughter" (Gracie). Our poor girl!

- Sharon (aka Mrs. Thomas)


Nathan looks over Mike's shoulder.


Daughter with mother.


Reagan's room.


August 28 - Week 3, Day 16

Early afternoon
The whole experience working with everyone, cast and crew alike, was great. We were like one big happy family. Jonathan, Mike, and Nathan as well as the rest of the crew, are extremely talented people. I hope that I get the opportunity to work with them again. So, on that note, I know we will all be getting together not only for the premiere but also at the airport when we are on our way to the festival circuit. This film is going to be a success!

- Michael (aka Mr. Thomas)


Clark and his father on set.


August 30 - Week 4, Day 17

Early afternoon
I came to the shoot in Ambler and got to meet another cast member, Ra-heen. From the second we started shooting, he had me laughing. His jerky movements kept catching me off guard. I couldn't look directly at him. Along with Jack, Ben brings a wrench into "The Matter with Clark".

- Jamie


Ry-heen joins us from California.


Jon gives some last second details on Ry-heen's character, Benjamin.


Jon and Mike working together as usual.


How many times has Jamie walked up and down these steps?


Ry-heen with grandma


August 31 - Week 4, Day 18

About 10 p.m.
I arrived at Delmar Lanes in Morrisville around 10 p.m. I was out of town for a few days so I hadn't seen the crew in a while. I surprised to see so many faces. I don't even know who was there. We had tons of extras in these scenes...which is concerning because I need to get release forms from all the extras. If you are an extra and you are reading this blog (fat chance!), please mail me your release form. The address is on the contact page. Thanks....right.

Of course, Clark Thomas can't bowl. He is too awkward!


Nathan looks on with his color-coded gaffe taped shorts.


Bud is back shooting with Jon.


Steve Brown joins the cast for the first time.


Safe as Milk cast members united again.


September 1 - Week 4, Day 19

1 a.m.
This was a light shoot. It was a make-up day for a set of scenes we were not able to get on the day it was scheduled. I arrived at 8:00 P.M. with Nathan and Amie. We shot Jaime walking up and down the stairs totaling 8 scenes. I lit the hallway with one 500w light bouncing off a white door to add some detail as he walked up the dark hallway. Jon also had Jaime walk up the stairs turning on the hall light and also with him walking up with the hall light already on.


Jon cracks up at Jamie's miscue.


But Mike certainly loves dillards.


September 2 - Week 4, Day 20

11:30 a.m.
We arrived at Valley Day School for the shoot at about 11:30am it was raining out and Art, Chris, Mike, and I waited in the car for the building to open up at 12:00. We listened to 80’s rock (Depeche Mode) and shared stories about our hatred for salesmen.

We used the interior of the school to double for the interior of a police station. The building is a correctional school so it came across very well. Complete with safety glass at secretary’s desk, metal detectors and security cameras.

An interesting shot came about when we realized that we were able to plug my DV deck directly into the security cameras and capture the footage onto our tapes. We used this to our advantage and captured some humorous takes of Clark being let into the “police station”.

It took me a while to actually get the deck to work, I had to go to radio shack to purchase and adapter, the salesmen at radio shack tried to convince me that what I wanted to buy was not the right piece. I brought in the DV deck to show him how much of an idiot he was. It reminded me of talking with the guys about how much I hate salesmen.

All in all it was a great day of shooting.

- Nathan

This was an interesting location. It was at a school, but it was set up to look like a police station. I couldn't believe how realistic it looked. We even got an unexpected camera angle. The rain kind of sucked though.

- Jamie


Jon leaves his pocket knife at the door.


Anthony joins the production


Clark at the police station.


September 3 - Week 4, Day 21

11:30 a.m.
Today was a very easy day, which is nice because it’s the day before Labor Day. Only had Jamie. All 8 scenes were driving. Used the sticky pod in front of the front wide window. But the Jetta shakes so much so had to constantly readjust the suction because of fear that the camera would eventually fall off. Nothing much to say other than it was great to have a relaxed atmosphere.

- Michael


September 4 - Week 4, Day 22

11:30 p.m.
It was quite a night. I was driving to a local hotel, which shall go unnamed, but decided to stop and put air in my front-right tire. When I pressed the air pump needle into the tire, air started uncontrollably spitting out. Within 5 minutes I had a complete flat tire.

Anyway, I was driving the Jetta to the production set at the local hotel. When I arrived Jon told me that the hotel owner kicked us out of the room. Jon was able to talk the hotel owner into letting us shoot for 2 hours. While we were shooting the owner came by again yelling at us and telling us to get out. I asked him what was wrong and he continued to yell but I couldn’t understand what he was yelling about. He told us that he knew what kind of movie we were filming. I’m going to guess and say that he thought we were shooting an all-male porno. After trying to explain to him this was a “regular” movie, he threatened to call the police. Jon quickly gathered the troops and we completed the scene. Not wanting to cause more of a raucous, we packed up and were out of there.


Ry-heen putting his foot through the broken glass booth. We couldn't build a more broken-down hotel and phone booth if we tried.


September 5 - Day 23

After 8:00 p.m.
Working to get all of Ry-heen’s scenes completed before he heads back to California, today we scheduled one the more entertaining scenes of the movie, at least the shooting of it was endlessly funny. We began by laying down a dolly track and setting up a shot that involved Ry-heen's character Benjamin wheeling a very heavy object across the floor of the auto body shop. We had to set up 4 soft box 500w lights in the shop because the lighting was making it really complicated for us. We had a few complications with light reflections in the windows of the shop because the camera tracked across the entire shop but we eventually worked it out. This was one of the harder scenes for me to shoot, not because of the lighting complications but rather because the scene was hard for me to shoot because Ry-heen was making us all laugh. Trying to hold a camera steady while holding back laughter is almost impossible but then being in a position of responsibility I wised up.

- Michael


Ry-heen and Jon prep the shots.


Mike and Jon pretend to ignore the digital camera on them.


Ry-heen with his two character items: bike and uniform.


The re-appearing phone.


1986 Volkswagen Jetta - what a beautiful!


Miguel in his new role.


September 6 - Week 4, Day 24

3:00 p.m.
This day started at the Great American Diner in Langhorne. We shot a scene that involved Ry-heen, Jaime, Dave, and Mitch. We set up when business at the diner slowed down and shot the scene in under an hour. Nathan set up a nice cross-key lighting scheme I really liked. We were very happy with the actor's performances and the speed at which we finished the scene.


Jamie and Ry-heen at the Great American Dinner.

We took a 3 hour break and set up Clark's car for a few night car scenes that involved Clark and Benjamin. Nathan and I set up the car mount and interior lighting and sent them on there way with Jon watching the monitor from the cramped back seat. When that scene was done, we shot a heavy scene that involved Ry-heen and Jaime expressing a lot of emotion over the family’s struggles. They did a great job under pressure and we wrapped those scenes around midnight.

- Michael


Benjamin's typical face.


Nathan seems to miss his girlfriend.


Mike can't stop laughing for some reason.


September 7 - Week 4, Day 25

Nightime
Tonight we went back to Delmar Lanes to finishing shooting outdoor scenes. Our shoot was marked by two very different events. First, Ry-heen had us cracking up again while doing a scene where he gets injured. I would love to elaborate but you’ll have to wait till the movie comes out.

But, the next event was something nobody could foresee. Tonight we had a random spectator on set. This spectator drove multiple vehicles onto the lot where we were shooting, each time blasting music. Of course, being a small independent production company, we can’t afford to have a closed set, and tonight we truly appreciated the realities of dealing with an open set. What was most impressive about our spectator was the number of vehicles he owned. He continually left the production area and returned with a new vehicle. At one point he pulled an SUV onto the parking lot, which just so happened to be directly in between the camera and actors. It was awesome!

- Unknown Spectator


Tim all excited to work with Jon again.


Steve and Jon relaxing a bit.


Another family member's car used in the movie.


How can this movie not be good with these people?


What is going on here?


Ry-heen breakdancing


September 8 - Week 4, Day 26

11:30 a.m.
Today was Ry-heen's last day of shooting. He had to be on a plane to LA the very next day. His last scenes were at the body shop and we knew he had to be out of there by 7 P.M. We included Adlib, an old friend we have done numerous music videos for and acted in "Safe As Milk" a few years ago in a scene with Ryheen. It was great to have them work together again since "Safe As Milk" in 2001. We successfully finished all his scenes and said bye to a good, reliable actor and friend.

- Michael


We had to switch seats out of the Jetta.


Nathan is a bit clumsy.


Everyone waits for Marco to bring back pizza.


Victor spray paints the seats to match them with the originals.


September 10 - Week 4, Day 27

Early afternoon
Today we began what will be a weekly shoot at Ricardo’s Pizza in Huntingdon Valley. We were able to get this location because the owner, Felix, is a good friend of my dad. I had been looking forward to this day because my dad played an important role in various scenes; he plays the restaurant owner. My dad has gained some weight over the years. This was a blessing in disguise because now he perfectly fits the role of a pizzeria owner. I worked with him in Safe as Milk, so I already knew he was very natural. Perhaps I’m biased, but he makes the best characters.

This was also Leah Davis' first day with us. She is a terrific actor and I’m personally looking forward to working with her in the coming weeks.

- Jonathan


Jon instructs Mingo and Jamie.


Miguel, the boom operator.


Jamie and Tim wearing their uniforms.


September 15 - Week 5, Day 28

Nightime
Tonight was our first and only party scene of the movie. It was a scene involving the start of the Clark and Linden relationship. My girlfriend, Carla, had the perfect house for the scene and her parents were super accommodating as we rearranged the sun-room for the movie. The sun-room and in-ground pool looked beautiful on camera and I can’t wait to see the shot on a large screen. We shot the interior scene first then moved outside to shoot dialogue between Clark and Linden.

Tonight was the first night that I started to feel the weather changing here in the suburbs of Philadelphia. It was cool and crisp, just the way I love it. But it is a minor cause for concern because we need the environment to look the same throughout the movie, but I think we will be fine. At one point in the night it started to rain a bit, which was a huge problem because I had the camera setup. We knew it might rain so I brought the camera umbrellas. The problem was that you could see the rain drops in the reflection of a patio light. Anyway, we patiently waited for the rain to end and only wrapped up production around 2 a.m.

Tonight I got to work with another new actor, Maura Fox. She did a great job dealing with being the new actor on set. She’ll be shooting with us again. Each time I meet a new actor I realize that up until now my selection instincts as been successful. I was surprised during pre-production how many people were willing to volunteer for each position and so far everyone has been impressive. I couldn’t ask for better actors for such a low budget movie.

- Jonathan


Not your typical party.


Ryan Munn makes a cameo.


Love is in the air: #1.


Love is in the air: #2.


Love is in the air: #3.


September 17 - Week 5, Day 29

Midnight
Today was a long, long day. We began at Ricardo’s Restaurant around noon and finished up after midnight. Unfortunately, we didn’t get all of the necessary scenes completed so we’ll be back here at Ricardo’s. Felix has been great to us. Sundays are his day off and he has opened up the restaurant for us a couple of times already. Today he even cooked us two large pizza pies. One was a lemon chicken pizza. Those of you reading from the Philadelphia area need to go sometime and try the lemon chicken…and if you do, please mention you read about Ricardo’s Restaurant on the Iano Films blog.


The pizzamen.


Mac Canepi joins the cast and the pizza staff.


Tim out of character.


Leah Davis is back for another shot


Group shot at the end of a long day.


September 19 - Week 4, Day 30

8:00 p.m.
We’re back at Ricardo’s to do few simple outside scenes. The most “interesting” of the night is that Tim snapped the door handle of my ’86 Volkswagen Jetta (which is Clark’s car). Of course, you can’t expect a 20-year old car to continue working properly forever, but breaking a door handle?


September 20 - Week 5, Day 31

1:30 p.m.
At this point in the schedule most of the “heavier” scenes have been completed. I set it up like this so we would get the hardest scenes completed earlier in the production. Today will are doing lots of a "filler" shots, which basically means images of a few seconds in a movie that viewers don't give much thought. For example, today we shot numerous takes of Clark pulling in and out of his parking spot. There are lots of random car shots in this movie, and it should be interesting to see how they serve as fillers. Just another 5-10 days and we are done shooting!

- Jonathan


September 21 - Week 5, Day 32

Noon
When a writer/director appreciates the complexity of making a very small budget movie, he/she understands that there are many types of locations that are automatically out. When I wrote this script, I constantly had this mentality in mind, however, I still went for more locations that I think most indie films of our budget would try for. So Mike, Marco, and I set out to try and get locations that fit the script. It has been amazing how many local businesses and schools have allowed us to shoot at their locations…for free! Today we shot at a popular local grocery store called Clemens Markets. We were given full access to the store in Hatfield, PA.

I really wanted to get a grocery store in the picture. I assumed if I could get access to one, I would have to wrote very simple scenes. But when we arrived at Clemen’s Markets in Hatfield, we were told the entire store was available for our shot, and we were simply asked to try and not disturb the customers since it was store hours. So I began to improvise scenes and change things around. For example, the store is a new place of employment for Clark and in the script I had Clark’s old boss, Paul (played by my dad, Mingo) run into Clark an aisle in which Clark is stocking shelves. But now I had a cash register to play with. So I decided to change the scene around and make Paul unknowingly get in Clark’s register line. When Paul stepped up to pay, there was Clark, in his full Clemen’s Market uniform, for check out.

Today was one of my favorite days because we were able to efficiently shoot all of the scenes we had planned, and furthermore get new scenes. The actors were on point with the last minute changes and so was the crew. I’m really looking forward to edit these scenes.

- Jonathan


Clark sets up his checkout station.


Mike using all resources.


Nathan makes a cameo by stocking shelves.


Nathan doing it all; boom operator and acting.


September 22 - Week 5, Day 33

2:30 p.m.
Using all resources to maximum capacity is important in this business. So today it was time to shoot at the Leary’s home. It was rather simple because it was merely Clark and Gracie coming out of the house and driving away. Luckily the weather permitted and the clouds cleared up a bit and we were able to get the shots that Jon wanted.

Afterwards we had a wonderful dinner. We decided to take out Nathan to dinner because it was his last night with us. Nathan was a great help. We still can’t believe came all the way from Cleveland to volunteer for out production. He brought experience and hard work to the set each day. He sacrificed by sleeping on an air mattress in Jon and Mike’s apartment. Nathan seemed to enjoy the dinner as is evident in the pictures below.


Our dinner group.


Jon's other cousin working hard.


Not sure what Mike is doing.


Nathan enjoying is last night in Pennsylvania.


Nathan continues to enjoy his dinner.


Don't worry, Nathan is not driving.


September 24 - Week 6, Day 34

11:30 a.m.
This was a real intense day for Tim. We shot at a beautiful graveyard in Newtown. The weather could not have been better: gray skies and windy. This scene involved Tim visiting a gravesite and reflecting on his past.

Later that night was probably the hardest shoot for Tim. Without giving any of the plot away, lets just say that the emotion he put into this scene was more than anyone has in the entire film. My favorite moment was when we used a dolly and punched-in on him while he was on a bed reflecting upon his past actions. Jon wanted to get the infamous "Hitchcock" shot, which basically involves dollying in and zooming out at the same time. The trick to getting it right is that the dollying in and zooming out must be simultaneous and at the same speed. Using our basic, crude equipment, this was extremely difficult to pull off. I believe we did about 30 takes and finally got it right (I think and hope; but I really won’t know until I view the tape).

- Michael


An emotional Jack.


Jon listens to Tim.


Tim's relaxing.


September 27 - Week 6, Day 35

11:30 a.m.
Having reflected on his past actions, today Jack (Tim Weinert) is visiting a priest. At least, production goes in that order but you’ll have to watch the movie to see whether this is indeed true….lol. We shot an interior church scene with a Priest in Bristol Bureau. Ok, I’ll give it away…this scene followed the graveyard scene for which Tim's character Jack speaks with a Priest inside the church (as is obvious). The Priest was very good in the scene and had a great personality off camera. You know, it is not easy finding a Priest that is also an actor. Setting up lights and cameras in the church was a little surreal to me but because of the easy-going nature of the Priest, I felt comfortable doing my job without being distracted that I was trampling upon a religious environment.

After the scene wrapped, we drove an hour to Reading, PA to shoot a scene involving Tim and Miguel, one of our Producers. This was a flashback scene for Tim's character, showing his life before Penndel Pizza and Clark's friendship. Yes, Tim has been very pensive lately. Miguel was a natural, nailing his performance in one take. Just don't tell Mingo that :)

- Michael


Father Tony making his acting debut.


Tim cracking up with Father Tony and Jon.


Jack, the general contractor.


Mike shooting in the basement in Reading, PA.


October 10 - Week 6, Day 36

2:30 p.m.
It's been a while since we last shot. We have had trouble locking down two different locations: police station and a hospital. Today we shot the police station scene. This was made possible by the generous help of Newtown Twp, particularly Bob Pelligrino and Chief Duffy. Chief Duffy basically gave us whatever we needed, including a real police officer, and marked cars.

This day was also marked by having the highly-accomplished, local actor, Gene Pearce, work with us for the first time. Gene is an accomplished actor and it is great to have him as part of this movie. From the pictures below, you can tell how well he fits the role of a police official. Now that this scene done, we only have a couple more difficult scenes to complete.


Gene doing what he does best, becoming his character.


Jon speaking with Chief Duffy about what is needed for the scene.


Jon's mom and sister were on set to watch and support Jon.


A real police officer and a real criminal, and Jon of course.


October 15 - Week 7, Day 37

Evening
We were back at Ricardo's Pizzeria one last time to finally complete Clark's work scenes. One scene required Clark to pour tomato sauce from a huge bucket into three smaller buckets. Seems simple enough, except when you consider it took us about 15 takes to get everything correct. Each time Jamie struggled to pour the tomato sauce into the buckets but always managed to not make a mess. The scene was difficult because after pouring the sauce, Jamie continued to interact with Leonard (Steve Clarke) making it a long and difficult take. After each pour, Marco and Jon rushed to clean the dripping tomato sauce to make the buckets appear unused once again. Finally, we got the shot and soon the Ricardo's Pizzeria location was in the past.


Jon wonders whether to improvise the scene.


Mike knows his cameras inside-out.


Mac Canepi joins us once again.


Mike films Tim to capture is point of view.


Mingo back on set.


Apparently, sometimes people need to let out their anger.


Kris on set before traveling across the country as part of a production.


Tim wants to hear his voice because he thinks he sounded funny, but he didn't.


October 21 - Week 7, Day 38

8:30 p.m.
Today we needed to complete some driving scenes with Clark and his grandmother. The only challenge was mounting two cameras on the car. Below you can see the final results of the mount. At this point, this smaller scenes seem less important but they can make or break the overall mood of the movie. Everyone keeps saying the same thing at this point: "I can't wait to see the movie!" Soon people, soon.


A point-of-view shot of each passenger.


Jon cramped up in the backseat so he can watch the scene in realtime.


Jamie is going to miss Clark's 1986 Jetta, we know it.


October 22 - Week 7, Day 39

All afternoon
Just another crazy shot for us before we wrap up production. Today we had perhaps the most people on set as we have had in any scene. Jon's cousin, Jennifer, was able to get us a bar in Ambler. A bunch of people broght extras for the shot to make the scenary look realistic. It actually turned into a "real" bar scene because lots of people had their eyes glued to the Eagles game. Our hearts were broken when the Tampa Bay kicker hit a 63 yard field goal....unbelievable! Anyway, soon we were back on track and completed the shooting.


Art came to the set today to help out.


Jon's cousin, Jennifer, sits with of one the main actors in the movie: Mingo Rola.


Anyone want to buy a t-shirt?


Mr. Handyman (Miguel) puts up a mat to block the overwhelming sunlight into the bar.


$1 to be an extra seems to be productive these days.


Mary and Maura with us one final shoot.


Mary trying out a new gig.


It takes a lot of people to make a movie.


Jamie and Jon working out the scene.


It was a tiring day for all.


October 25 - Week 7, Day 40

4:30 p.m.
Today is our last major location shoot! We are at Gwynedd Mercy College in Montgomery County shooting the hospital scenes. After a long search, we were finally able to get the perfect looking hospital room. The shoot went really well. We are getting more and more efficient in production as times goes by....who knew? But seriously, we were able to get all the scenes and then some. Joanne from Gwynedd was very accomodating, and Jon was able to improvise some changes in the scenes to fit the excellent scenery.


Maggie is fine; no really she is!


The actors pose with a local bear we found in Montgomery County.

After shooting inside the facilities, we needed one outside shot. The problem was that their were so many 'fall' leaves on the ground. The proper setting in the movie is late August / early September, so we had to come up with some creative methods to blow the leaves away, as you cam see Jon's dad doing below. In case your wondering, we only have a couple minor shots to gets. They are mostly shots for the opening credits of the movie. It should be easy to get. The hard scenes are all complete and here we go with post-production!


Jon's dad sweeps away some leaves.


October 30 - Week 7, Day 41

Morning
Today is our second-to-last day of shooting. It is the last day for Jamie and Gracie. We only needed to shoot some more car scenes that will serve for the opening credits. Sounds simple except some shoots required Mike hanging out the sunroof to get the clear shoot of the oncoming car driven by Clark. To complicate things, the local police didn't particularly our "illegal" vehicular activities. They pulled us over, with what seemed to be deep suspicions, and collected our information. Marco was driving so he queried as to why he is driving a car with someone hanging out the sunroof. "We are just shooting," Jon stated from the passenger seat. "Shooting???" "Yeah, for a movie, not people." Needless to say, we were kept waiting in our car for an excessive amount of time, as two patrol cars were called for backup. In the end, it seemed humorous to everyone involved and off we were back to the editing room.


We prep for the final day with Gracie and Jamie.


One last pic of the siblings.