The New Mexico Film Office Announces the Second NM Filmmakers Experience Panel Discussion in Santa Fe COMPOSING FOR FILM

SANTA FE —The New Mexico State Film Office has announced the expansion of the New Mexico Filmmakers Program including a new series of discussions entitled the "NM Filmmakers Experience” to be held at the Santa Fe Center for Contemporary Arts. 

The New Mexico Filmmakers Experience will consist of screenings and panel discussions, which will take place on the 3rd Sunday of each month from February to June. For more information, visit our website at: http://nmfilm.com/Filmaker_Programs.aspx or contact Dirk Norris at 505-476-5671 or dirk@nmfilm.comdirk@nmfilm.com. 

These events are free and open to the public. Our second Filmmakers Experience panel discussion is Composing for Film. What is involved in making music for a film? Who does it and why? Our March panelists are CK Barlow, Jeff Mettling, John Rangel, Andy Gabrys and Sue Lucas. 

Date: Sunday, March 17th Time: 11:00 am to 1:00 pm 

Location: Santa Fe Center for Contemporary Arts 1050 Old Pecos Trail Santa Fe, NM 87505 505-982-1338;  email: contact@ccasantafe.org.

Panelist Bios: CK BARLOW is an Albuquerque-based composer whose work has been heard on ABC, NBC, BBC, Bravo, MTV, National Geographic, VH1, CMT, Discovery Channel, G4, History Channel, Animal Planet, Style Network, etc. ANDY GABRYS has scored a number of short films including “Plots” and “Leather Kittens Gone Bad” with director Holly Adams, and the 2010 Notable New Mexico documentary on Astronaut Sidney Gutierrez: “The Sky’s Not the Limit” with director Tara Walch. SUE LUCAS is the owner of SkyLimit Music, LLC an on-line music library consisting of cleared, and original stock music of all genres by independent artists. JEFF METTLING lives in Albuquerque and is a multi-award winning musical composer and recording artist. JOHN RANGEL is a Composer and Jazz Pianist. John now lives in Santa Fe New Mexico and teaches at the Santa Fe School of Arts and Sciences.

crewnewmexico.com is not affiliated with the New Mexico Film Office (but we like to help promote their news and events!)

Film Industry Town Hall, April 18th in Taos!

SANTA FE—The New Mexico Film Office today announced a Town Hall meeting scheduled to take place in Taos on Thursday, April 18, 2013. 

This Town Hall follows a series of town hall meetings that took place in Las Cruces, Ruidoso, Roswell, Raton, Clovis, and Carlsbad. Film Office director Nick Maniatis will discuss the state of the New Mexico film industry – including an update about legislation, the outlook going forward, and the opportunities available to New Mexicans.


The meetings are intended to provide an open forum for each community to share information about their educational programs, film related businesses and issues of concern. Prior to each Town Hall meeting, participants will have an opportunity to have their headshot (photograph) taken by a representative of the film office which will be given to Extra Casting Directors in New Mexico. 

Those who already have a headshot are encouraged to bring them to the Town Hall meeting and fill out the Extras Casting Information Registration form (headshots do not have to be taken by a professional). This opportunity is for informational purposes only and is not in response to a particular production. The Town Halls are free and open to all, including students, local filmmakers, businesses and the general public. The NM Film Office is collaborating with local film liaisons, schools and chambers of commerce in conducting these events. 

The schedule is as follows: When: Thursday, April 18, 2013 Time: 6:00 PM Location: Harwood Museum of Art 238 Ledoux St., Taos, NM 87571 Phone: 575-758-9826 Contact: Asia Golden, Coordinator of Public Programs asiagolden@gmail.com 

Agenda: 6:00 pm - Headshots for casting directors 7:00 pm - Welcome and Introductions David Hinske 7:15 pm - State of the NM Film Industry, Director Nick Maniatis 7:30 pm - Q and A session There is no RSVP necessary to attend any of the Town Hall meetings and surrounding communities are encouraged to participate in the discussion. 

The expected timeframe for the town hall is approximately two (2) hours with Q&A. For more information on the 2013 Film Industry Town Hall meetings contact Dirk Norris at 505-476-5671 or dirk@nmfilm.com. # # #

Cast & Crew Entertainment Services - The Interview!

Payroll Companies play a large and increasingly critical part of the production industry, and are often the “unseen heroes” that really help a film tick.  In this interview with our New Mexico clients – Cast & Crew Entertainment Services – Senior VP of Client Services, Shardell Cavaliere, explains about the role of the Payroll Company in the modern production landscape.

What are the core services Cast & Crew provides to the film industry?

As a leading Entertainment Industry services company, Cast & Crew offers a turnkey solution for the Industry’s payroll and production needs.  Our suite of services includes specialized payroll and residuals processing, Cast & Crew’s own proprietary software products: PSL production accounting software, (the most stable in the industry), onBudget, (Cast & Crew’s premier production budgeting software) and onSet, (Cast & Crew’s Purchasing and Procurement Company.)

  

Most people would be surprised at how large and diverse a role payroll companies play in the production of feature films. In addition to payroll, what services and/or logistics does Cast & Crew provide to the industry?

Cast & Crew has a suite of proprietary technology solutions for production from budgeting via our onBudget software to our production accounting software, PSL.  For our clients, Cast & Crew facilitates all areas of Worker’s Compensation, provides access to our extremely knowledgeable Labor Relations group and provides state-by-state production incentive advice.  Additionally, through our onSet service, productions are able to procure goods and services through Cast & Crew to take advantage of various state incentives.

As production continues to decentralize from LA to “incentive” states, what challenges or opportunities does that present for a company like Cast & Crew, and how do you stay on top of it all? Is that the benefit of having offices nationwide?

At Cast & Crew, we look at every change in the industry as an opportunity to increase both our knowledge base and our role in the ever changing industry.  We work directly with film commissions in all US and Canadian jurisdictions and participate in numerous panels and discussions all year long.  Through these relationships, Cast & Crew is kept abreast of proposed changes and is able to work proactively with our clients to ensure that they get the most out of the individual incentives. 

While traveling to take advantage of incentives is beneficial to the productions, are there areas where it makes things more difficult or less cost effective? How does working with a company like Cast & Crew minimize those challenges and help maximize incentives?

Cast & Crew’s relationships with various state agencies only benefit our clients.  The ever changing world of incentives poses a challenge to all productions but, by utilizing our services, they do not need to be worried that they are missing out.  We all know that it is not practical for a production to purchase and own all of the equipment that is necessary.  From the expense of traveling that equipment across the country to the expense of storing it until it is liquidated at the end of production, the viability of owning just does not make sense.  This is where Cast & Crew onSet provides an amazing service.  Productions are able to procure their equipment from onSet and take advantage of the state incentives.  No need to store or transport equipment and they get credit for incentive purposes.  This is a double win for productions! 

Productions are increasingly mobile, going from New Mexico to New Orleans or beyond. Do you follow along and provide services throughout, regardless of the location? What about overseas locations? What's one of the most exotic places your staff has traveled to?

When a production starts with Cast & Crew, they may begin working in the US and soon find themselves across the country or the ocean.  Cast & Crew currently has offices across the United States and Canada and we are pleased to be opening our first overseas office in London this spring.  Cast & Crew will be with them every step of the way. We have had productions in various parts of the world, including remote parts of Africa.  We are able to process US nationals working anywhere in the world and, with the opening of our London office, will be able to process payroll across Europe as well.

Does Cast & Crew help productions navigate all the State incentives to help them decide where to shoot? Or do your services begin once the locations are set and the project is green-lit?

Cast & Crew is available to work with any of our clients to get the most out of the state incentives.  We are not in the business of keeping our clients out in the cold and that philosophy extends to production incentives.  A client simply needs to call and let us know where they are going and we are ready to assist them with the most up-to-date information available.  We provide monthly email updates and twice yearly we publish a physical version of our TIP Guide which details the incentives on a state-by-state basis.  These tools and the personal relationships that we have with state agencies enable us to provide up to the minute information to our production partners allowing them to maximize their return.  

New Mexico remains one of the top production locations in the US. What is it about New Mexico that continues to keep it so successful in light of aggressive competition from other States?

New Mexico has state-of-the-art stage facilities, a good crew base and no per project cap except for the $20M aggregate cap on performing artists’ salaries.  In addition, the incentive is fully refundable, a short commute from Los Angeles for weekend trips home, and good weather,

all of which provide a very competitive landscape.

What are some of the more notable New Mexico productions Cast & Crew has worked on? 

Cast & Crew has been privileged to work with many productions in New Mexico such as The Lone Ranger, Game Change, Longmire and The Lying Game, to name just a few.

Tell us about your New Mexico crew. What makes them the best in the industry?

Our New Mexico office is led by a seasoned team of industry professions.  The majority of the team has also worked on the production side which adds to the client experience.

  

Cast & Crew uses "the most stable and sophisticated production accounting software available on the market." Explain a bit about the system, what it enables Cast & Crew to do, and how it gives you an edge over other Payroll companies.

PSL was designed to track production incentives efficiently and effectively. In addition, the user friendly interface makes it the go-to software for the biggest films ever produced, most recently THE LONE RANGER filmed in New Mexico. The flexibility of PSL allows for customized reports to be created effortlessly, allowing productions to maximize their return and speed up the incentive process.   Combine that with the 24/7 customer support, PSL has become the choice of production accountants everywhere.

To learn more, contact Cast & Crew!

Cast & Crew Entertainment Services 
5700 Harper Drive, NE, Suite 310, Albuquerque, NM 87109
Tel: (505) 247-0868

crewnewmexico.com Site Visitation Map!

Our Google Advertising, as well as our key-word rich website helps keep crewnewmexico.com the first point of reference and contact for the New Mexico film industry. Click the map below to see the traffic we receive in just two mornings this week.

crewnewmexico.com for Film Crew, 480, and 399? Absolutely, and Here's Why

No matter if you're listed on the 480 or Film Office website getting a CREW listing on crewnewmexico.com is a solid step. Here's why:

• You get an entire movie profile page, just like this.
• Your page gets its own web address: ie http://www.crewnewmexico.com/davidstump - so you have a fully functional web address you can add to business cards, your email signature, Facebook page, and more.
  
• Anyone can view our site - and your credits - 24/7. The union website is password protected.
• You can add/edit your credits and manage your page 24/7! Just login!
  
• You can email your film credits direct from your crew account.
• We'll work with you directly to help you get your talents and skills recognized.
• We're the most searched directory for New Mexico film, with over 10,000 visitors/mo.
  
• New Mexico has some of the top crew in the country, and we're searched by productions far and wide looking for talented crew.
• You may be listed in IMDB, but that does you no good for people looking for New Mexico crew.
  
• We'll introduce you and give a great shout out to you in our New Mexico Movie News, sent out to over 11,000 film professionals.
• We sponsor film events all over the state to make sure that our company, and our members, are always at top of mind for film professionals looking for services. You invest in us, and we invest in you!
  
• We submit your profile page to google search, so you'll start to appear in the top level of google results when your name is searched.
• Discounts! We often arrange for discounted ticket prices for our members for film festivals, events, and more.
  
• We blast our your career highlights to our nearly 2,000 Facebook followers.

Listing with us is quick, easy, effective, and the leading way to keep yourself on industry radar. Contact us at membership@crewnewmexico.com, or call (505) 930-0443 to register today.

Bill to Kill the New Mexico Film Incentives is DOA

Here's the latest news on the New Mexico Film Incentives - from the New Mexico Independent!

Before discussion of a bill in committee, it’s normal for the chair to ask the audience who is there in support and who isn’t. After Chairman Garcia asked that question on Tuesday, Rep. Dennis Kintigh, R-Roswell, knew he was alone.

After a lot of testimony, a change to a bigger room and some emotional words, the House Labor and Human Resource Committee tabled the bill by a vote of 5 to 2. The bill aimed to end the tens of millions of dollars worth of tax incentives New Mexico gives to film companies to make movies here. Last year, Rep. Kintigh says the state gave out $82 million dollars in those incentives for a creation of about 2,000 direct jobs.

“We have a moral and ethical obligation to be good stewards of the states money,” Kintigh said in his opening statement.”I’m convinced we are not being good stewards if we continue this program.”

The committee had to switch rooms in the Roundhouse to accommodate the large crowd that turned out over the issue. And that large crowd was 100 percent against the bill.

“This bill is out there, it’s headline-grabbing, but its not sensible,” one commenter told the committee.

Comment after comment poured in to the committee, asking them to kill the bill. One came from a representative of the Enterprise car rental company, who pointed to the 50-60 cars rented for one month per production. Another told of a residential construction career revived by building movie sets. Over all about 20 people from the crowd spoke to the committee.

To read the full article, click here.

Film Vendor Update

In the last few weeks, we've added nearly 20 of New Mexico's leading film industry vendors to the New Mexico Film Directory on crewnewmexico.com, and welcomed several back for a second year on our site.

It's our pleasure to present to the industry the most-searchable, informative, and dynamic tool for finding information for your production.

You're also always welcome to contact us directly if you need assistance. (505) 930-0443, or info@crewnewmexico.com.

Here's some of the newest vendors on crewnewmexico.com!

• DeWitt Stern - Insurance and Risk Advisory services for many of Hollywood's largest productions and studios, now reaching out to New Mexico-based productions. http://www.crewnewmexico.com/dewittstern
• TC Movie Horses - Providers of horses to New Mexico films for nearly 30 years. Experienced wranglers, and also have a host of old-west props. Ask for Tim Carroll. http://www.crewnewmexico.com/tcmoviehorses
• RACO Leasing - Manufacturers and leasing agents for set service rigs, including P-Mo, wardrobe trailers. Based in NM but serve the industry nationwide.
• Delxue Catering - One of Hollywood's leading production catering companies! Credits include Titanic, Magnolia, The Resident, Men Who Stare at Goats, and hundreds of other productions, both in NM and nationwide! http://www.crewnewmexico.com/deluxecatering
• La Posada de Santa Fe Resort and Spa - A Rock Resort. A-List accommodations right in the heart of Santa Fe. http://www.crewnewmexico.com/laposadadesantafe
• Over the Rainbow Cleaning. With over 25 productions under their belt, they're New Mexico's leading set strike/janitorial companies, with a major focus on being green! http://www.crewnewmexico.com/overtherainbow
• and lots more!
• Be sure to tell them you heard about them on crewnewmexico.com
  

Video on Production Insurance Services Provided by DeWitt Stern

DeWitt Stern is one the newest businesses listed on crewnewmexico.com.They provide Insurance and Risk Advisory services for Hollywood's largest studios, productions, and talent - and are now reaching out to New Mexico productions.

Here's a video featuring Peter Marshall, Senior VP and Coordinator Motion Picture, TV and New Media for DeWitt Stern.

Entertainment Partners Seeking Paymaster

Paymaster needed for two-person office in Albuquerque. Must have at least 2 years payroll or accounting background & 10 key by touch. 4-day work week. . . . Entertainment Partners is the largest provider of production management services in the entertainment industry. For 30 years, we have cultivated a commitment to excellence by viewing our clients truly as our Partners. . . Entertainment Partners is an equal opportunity employer. Entertainment Partners requires successful completion of pre-employment background check. We also offer a competitive compensation package, comprehensive benefits including medical/dental/vision insurances, ESOP, 401(k), and Paid Time Off.

Send resume to dlenier@entertainmentparters.com

Have a job announcement? Email news@crewnewmexico.com

Vintage Movie Posters - New Mexico Film Vendor

Vintage Movie Posters!
The Rosenberg Collection




Especially as we get closer to the holidays, we wanted to give a special shout out to Marty Rosenberg and the Vintage Poster Gallery on Canyon Road in Santa Fe. Not only because his historic movie posters make great gifts but because his collection is a brilliant and unique part of film history that all film lovers should see. Plus every set decorator should see these up close and personal.

The Rosenberg Collection features over 8,000 different vintage movie posters, many of them extremely rare. Works include posters for Citizen Kane, Midnight Cowboy, and Grand Hotel from the U.S. and international greats such as Belle d'Jour, Seventh Samurai, and Juliet of the Spirits (Fellini).

Posters from this collection are owned by Robert DeNiro, the Altman estate, Kathy Baker, Gene Hackman, Ali Macgraw, Kirk Ellis and countless people in movie making and production.

For details call Marty Rosenberg at 505 577-7419, visit the gallery at 901 Canyon Road, Santa Fe. www.mrposter.com

Most of the world's greatest films have been shown in Poland, with Poland's leading artists producing the related movie posters. From 1945 thru the 1980s, these posters won international acclaim. With their powerful and unique style, Polish film posters have gained worldwide recognition as fine art.

New Mexico Lighting and Grip

Industrial Strength Support for the New Mexico Film Industry

There are many factors that help productions decide where they're going to film, and industry supporting infrastructure is one of them. In addition to our attractive incentive program, New Mexico has industrial strength vendors who know the ins and outs of working in Hollywood.

New Mexico Lighting and Grip is one such company.

Opening its doors at Albuquerque Studios in 2007, New Mexico Lighting & Grip Company offers a keystone inventory of lighting and grip equipment and serves major motion pictures, independent features, television and commercial productions in New Mexico, and nationwide. Their credits include In Plain Sight (season 1 and, soon, Season 3) Breaking Bad (season 1-3), The Spirit, The Game, Cirque du Freak, The Betterman, The Resident, Paul, Book of Eli, Terminator 4, and The Spy Next Door.

Their 25,000 sq ft warehouse is stocked with HMI, Incandescent, Kino Flo ®, Dimming, Moving Lights, generators and LED Lighting. For grips, the company carries a full range of digital blue and green screens, steel deck and green bed scaffold systems. NMLGC is also the local representative of Airstar Balloon Lighting.

"It is great to be partnered with Albuquerque Studios and part of the growing New Mexico filmmaking community," said Sean Buckler, rental manager for New Mexico Lighting & Grip Company. "We offer the full range of equipment from complete packages to supplemental packages for independent gaffers and key grips."

In 2008, NMLGC opened New Mexico's first Expendables Store which carries gels, globes, electrical, tape, tools, camera supplies, hardware, lumber, paint/paint supplies, textiles, office/kitchen supplies, apparel.

Meet The NMLGC Management

Sean Buckler, Manager
Sean Buckler is the Mangager of New Mexico
Lighting and Grip Company. Prior to his current role, Sean served as Rental Agent for NBC Universal Set Lighting in Los Angeles were he gained a broad spectrum of industry experience and knowledge. In 2007, Sean was selected to set up NMLGC in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and was subsequently promoted to his current position in January 2009.

Under his management, NMLGC supports the independent, eight stage Albuquerque Studios as well as numerous off lot productions. Since opening, New Mexico Lighting and Grip has serviced 10 features, 3 television shows and numerous independent productions in various locations throughout North America.

Sean's credits include American Pie, Friday Night Lights, American Dreamz, Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift, Accepted, Cirque Du Freak, and Paul.

For more information, a tour, or equipment or expendables request - in New Mexico or nationwide - contact Sean at (505) 227-2500, or email sean.buckler@nmlgc.com.

New Mexico Movie News #3 - Letter from the Editor

Welcome to the 3rd edition of
The New Mexico Movie News by crewnewmexico.com!

It's a pleasure to wrap up another year in the New Mexico film industry with the third edition of The Movie News, and warm wishes for a great New Year!

New Mexico remains ranked one of the top places to film thanks to our amazing and varied locations, deep and talented crew base, favorable climate, proximity to LA, and large number of film-supporting businesses. Even though it's been an unpredictable year across the industry, we've still hosted 42 productions in our beautiful state and seen some major talent and great productions, including some that are now gaining attention at the Golden Globes and, probably, the Oscars.

That being said, the last 365 days have been quite a ride for many. Production financing took a big hit, and things were slower than usual across the industry. Yet Hollywood had a record-breaking year at the box office and financing is moving forward once again. Section 181 may also be renewed for another year, which would keep investment in film a very attractive option, and continue to prevent runaway production overseas.

The past year saw several more states (and countries) offering or improving their film incentives. From Capetown to South Korea, North Carolina to Kentucky, the economic and physical landscape of how and where movies are made is changing.

Some new film programs sprout fast and high but crash hard (Iowa), some are too small to spur much activity (Oklahoma), others give away the farm to make things grow (Michigan), while others try to regain what they've lost (California, Canada). Yet New Mexico still has the most successful, straightforward, and sustainable film program in the nation.

But the growth of film in New Mexico can't just be reliant on state incentives. It is the private sector that builds the infrastructure and provides the support services that make the industry tick. One such company is the sponsor of this edition of The Movie News, New Mexico Lighting and Grip Company - a keystone operation that lights and equips many of our most successful productions, and is positive symbol of the state of New Mexico film.

In just the last year, crewnewmexico.com alone has grown by nearly 500 cast, crew, and vendors, our site traffic has increased ten-fold, and our visibility has gone from strictly local to worldwide.

We've served multiple productions, sponsored festivals, hosted mixers, launched The News, consulted for emerging film markets, been on the cover of the New Mexico Business Weekly, and grown from a start-up to one of the most recognizable companies in the NM film industry.

Our growth is a reflection of the strength of our industry, and we owe our success to those that we serve. We offer a big thanks to our member-advertisers, sponsors, and the greater film and business community. We look forward to working with many of you in the year to come, and have lots of great things in store.
We are here to support your production, business, or career, so contact us at any time.

Happy Holidays!

Daniel Taras, Founder
crewnewmexico.com
daniel@crewnewmexico.com
(505) 930-0443

In the Film Business – or Any Business – Marketing and Branding Should Get Top Billing

A special article for crewnewmexico.com
by Lucy Rosen of the Business Development Group

The idea of branding ourselves or our small business is a foreign concept to lot of people. We think branding is for big corporations like Coca Cola, Whole Foods and McDonalds because they're huge companies with big budgets, million dollar tag-lines and a whole lot of advertising behind them. You may also think that the rules for branding your small business or career as a filmmaker don't apply, right?

Wrong. Every business, no matter its size or industry, needs to "brand" itself, to create an identity in the marketplace and an emotional connection with its customers. In fact, branding is one of the most important steps that businesses today should be taking. The good news is that it's easier than you think - if you give branding, marketing and networking yourself the "top billing" it deserves.

Let me give you an example. Over the past two decades, I've worked to successfully "brand" my own two businesses - a national women's networking organization that I founded in 1985 called Women on the Fast Track, and The Business Development Group -- a full-service marketing, public relations and business development firm that I've grown to now have offices in both New York and New Mexico.

I've also helped to brand, and grow, hundreds of other businesses in industries across the board - from national food and beverage companies, to local arts councils, to just about every type of company and not-for-profit organization in between. I've learned what works, and here's what you need to know.


Steps to Effective Branding: The Right Packaging Sells

• It starts with you. The first step in creating your brand is to figure out who you are, and what you want to be. What makes you different, unique? It’s not about assigning yourself a label, but about assuming and promoting an identity that makes you feel the most comfortable. It’s what you’re going to be doing and representing all day – is it something you can “live with” and feel good about 24/7?

• Look for the “soul” of your brand. What do you stand for, want to live up to, consider most important to your life and core values? (ie Are you saving the planet or feeding people the most nutritious food possible? Do you want to be a game-changing screenwriter or producer?) Also, what skills do you bring to the table? Don’t limit it to things that are career oriented; if you can’t make a good list, ask people what they like about you. Do you have an ability to get people to talk? Do you walk into a room of cranky people and change the mood instantly? Find your key attributes – and go from there. It’s best to start with your strengths.

Create a great logo – and an even better tagline.
Just like a movie’s title can make (or break) a film, an effective name and tagline for your business can be a great way to create excitement about, and interest in, your company. Everyone remembers a good tagline: Because I’m Worth It (L’Oreal); The World, On Time (Federal Express); You’re in Good Hands with Allstate; We Try Harder (Avis). Taglines are benefit-driven, or descriptive. They’re what people hope they will get from the product (or the person).

In creating taglines for my companies, I capitalized on what my businesses offer my clients – and what sets us apart from others in their industry. For Women on the Fast Track, my tagline is “The Absolutely Best Networking Organization for Business and Professional Women.” For my marketing/public relations agency, our tagline is ”The Ultimate in Creativity and Follow-through with an Emphasis on the Client Bottom Line.” Those tag-lines should leave no doubt about what we do. So, the question is, what do you do? If you can’t answer that quickly and with confidence, its time to go back to the drawing board. Think of a line that tells your clients – and potential clients - what it is that you can do for them.

Set business goals - and write them down!
Another key step in branding is to clearly define your goals and objectives. Make them specific, and write them down. Goals only work when they are clearly outlined and written in stone. Take the time to really think this through and ask yourself some key “life questions” when coming up with your goals. How much money do you want to make? When do you want to retire? Where do you want to work? What do you want to do at work? Be specific. It’s not enough to say you want to get more business or to secure a new job. Where do you want it? What city, what state? What do you want to do there? Once you have your goals, the next step is to make an action plan outlining what you are going to do to get there. The key is to then follow this “script” for success as closely as possible in order to reach, and even exceed, these initial goals.

Go after your “audience” with everything you’ve got.
Much like in movies, knowing what your audience wants, and delivering it to them, is really the key to success in any business branding effort. But first you need to define exactly who your target audience is, which starts with a few basic (but crucial) questions: Who is the target for your business? Where are they located? What do they need? What do you want them to need? Who is competing for their loyalty?

While these questions seem simple, a clear understanding of your target audience is critical as you brand yourself in the marketplace – and deliver, time and time again, exactly what your audience is looking for from you and your business. Remember, though: often we are so busy telling a market who we are and what we can do that we don’t take time to stand in their shoes to figure out if what we’re selling is what they’re buying.

While creating – and building – a successful brand for your business is one of the most important things you need to be doing in today’s competitive marketplace, it’s really only the first step. In order to take it to the next level, you need a solid plan for marketing, promotion and publicity.

There are so many ways to get out there: making contacts at networking events, securing positive media coverage about you and/or your business, developing striking collateral materials (brochures, direct mail, website, etc.) that will not only showcase your brand – but will separate you from your competition. A good plan will be your roadmap to success. A great plan will take you to a whole new dimension of success.

I’ve said it, and I’ve seen it, so many times in my career: Branding works. Let it work for you, and you’ll be reaping the benefits of your hard work that you’ve always known was within reach.

Coen brothers movie tryout is Saturday in Nashville

How cool is this: they're doing open auditions for their lead!

Paramount Pictures is seeking Caucasian girls, ages 12-16, for the lead in a new Coen brothers feature film entitled “True Grit,” according to a press release. The movie is scheduled to begin shooting in New Mexico and Texas in the spring. No experience necessary. The movie officials are seeking girls for the role of Mattie Ross, a14-year-old “simple, tough as nails young woman.”

The tryout is Saturday 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. at the Sheraton hotel in downtown Nashville. The address is 623 Union St.Bring a current photo to leave, and a parent/guardian should accompany girls trying out.

There is no fee to audition.

New Accounting Rules for the New Mexico Film Incentive Program

On September 11, 2009, Governor Bill Richarson's office announced the introduction of a new program to help provide greater transparency in the New Mexico Film Incentive process. In light of some recent abuses of incentives in Iowa, these come at a newsworthy time.

New Mexico has the most trusted and stable incentive program in the country, and these new changes show the confidence we have in our current procedures.

Under the new guidelines, production companies that request a tax credit will be required to provide the New Mexico Film Office with detailed information regarding the expenses submitted to qualify for the credit. Previously this data had only been provided to the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department where by law it must be kept confidential. Under the new policy, the film office will provide aggregate totals in specific categories for all film and television productions on a fiscal year basis.

By providing aggregate totals, proprietary industry information will remain confidential while still providing the public greater insight into how the tax credits are being applied, and to show the validity of the credit requests.

To enforce the new rules, the New Mexico Tax and Revenue Department is creating a new film unit consisting of four auditors and a supervisor who will receive specialized training in production practices and terminology.

Says Rick Homans, Secretary of the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department, "Our auditors will talk the industry language, visit the sets and understand the complexity of the film and digital media business. The goal is to be open and friendly to the film industry and, at the same time, maintain accountability and a clear set of rules and expectations.

The reporting categories are as follows:

1. Total dollar amount spent in New Mexico (including NM labor)
2. Total dollar amount spent in NM on:
a. NM Crew (all NM crew: director, producers, writer, technical crew, security)
b. NM Talent (principals and background)
c. New Mexico facility/property rental: stage space, production office, location fees
d. NM lodging/accommodations
e. NM food (catering, craft service, other)
f. NM rental vehicles/non-film vehicles
g. NM "rolling equipment" rentals (trucks, trailers, cranes, picture cars)
h. NM film equipment rentals (grip, lighting, camera, other)
i. NM construction costs (lumber, hardware, supplies, other)
j. NM set dressing
k. NM wardrobe
l. NM special effects/props.

Article/Interview With crewnewmexico.com!

The following interview appears on the Albuquerque Examiner online news site.

by Juanita Lee, Albuquerque Examiner
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- Whether you are interested in making a name for yourself in the film industry or are on the production side looking for talent, crew, a location, industry-supporting vendors, or the best place to house your actor while they are on a shoot, you need look no further. New Mexico's premier film industry resource, crewnewmexico.com, is where you can find all your answers.

Home to a booming film industry, New Mexico offers locals many opportunities to shine in a variety of movies and television productions. For example, the film "Let Me In" will need over 500 background extras, meaning job opportunities for many people. In addition, most movies need around 100 on-set crew members, and the support of dozens of companies and hundreds of individuals that provide services to that particular film.

Founder of crewnewmexico.com, Daniel Taras, recently provided more insight, not only into the industry as a whole but also to what other opportunities are coming for New Mexicans that would like to work in the film industry.

You are the founder of crewnewmexico.com. How did you get into this industry?

I’ve always had an entrepreneurial life, but also a creative one. Photographer, professional writer and editor, traveler, safari guide, documentary cameraman.

When I started working in New Mexico film, I kept hearing the same question: “How do I get involved in the film industry.” Another big question – this one from the production side - was “Where can we find who and what we need to make this movie?” I decided to answer both questions at the same time, in a really cool way.

I felt that if we were to grow into the major film destination that’s been envisioned for New Mexico, we needed to have a production resource commensurate with the scope of what was happening. Since the film industry is largely here due to tax funded film incentives, I also wanted to ensure that the citizens of New Mexico have a way to feel informed and involved in the industry that’s right in their backyard. In a state that is as large as New Mexico, with a population spread so far and wide, I also saw a great need for networking and connectivity.

In just one year, we’ve added over 600 New Mexico individuals and businesses to our directory, receive around 10,000 site visitors per month, and send out our New Mexico Movie News industry newsletter to 8,000 filmmakers. Based on those numbers, I know we’re doing it right.

What sets crewnewmexico.com apart from other similar companies?

crewnewmexico.com was built from the ground up as a dynamic and interactive online tool that takes advantage of how business and networking are done in the year 2009. There have been print directories in the past, but they are expensive to publish and use a lot of natural resources to deliver a final product that is often out-of-date.

crewnewmexico.com is built on sustainable principles. We use very few natural resources. We only use digital format in all of our communications. No printed mailings, no print-outs, no fax machine. We can telecommute. We had a visit from an office supply salesman who wanted to set up an account for us. I said, “Nothing personal, but we don’t use office supplies.” You’d be amazed at how it helps minimize overhead and lessen environmental impact. All those paper clips come from somewhere.

In two years since the inception of crewnewmexico.com we’ve used a total of 5 packs of printer paper and a few ink cartridges. I never go to Staples. I have 3 printers collecting dust in the closet if you want one.

What has been your best experience, thus far, in the film industry?

The amazing interaction I have with such a wide variety of New Mexico film people and businesses – that’s the most rewarding. In one day, I can be doing business with an actor, caterer, grip, realtor, lawyer, location, hotel, producer and ice-delivery man. It’s like a Mr. Rogers tour through the economy.

Being in a place where we can bring together such a wide variety of people and services, all with the ultimate goal of helping make great movies and helping keep business flowing – that’s the best experience. Our goal is to make sure that anyone considering shooting in New Mexico is fully informed of the amazing array of talent, goods and services available to them. And for local individuals and businesses to have an opportunity to be involved.

I also love seeing people I know on screen or in the film credits. That’s brilliant.

What advice would you give to aspiring actors?

Hone your craft. Follow your heart. Get great headshots. Life is short. Live your passion. If you’re not doing what makes you happy, you’re wasting very precious time. Whatever happens, you’ll be richer for the experience.

What should people who want to get a foot in the door avoid doing?

I always go by the 3 Ps. Be polite, professional and persistent. Oh, and if you do get on a movie set, never run. It looks like you forgot something.

As an extra or a cast member, what should one expect as a typical day?

Days on a set are long, usually never less than 12 hours, up to 16 or more. In New Mexico, weather conditions can swing wildly, so be prepared. If you’re going to be an extra, bring snacks, a book, and a pillow for your bottom because you might spend half the day waiting for your scene.

Making movies reminds me of football games. They spend a lot of time preparing for the next scene, and then there’s only a few seconds of action. Now I know why people drink so much beer on Superbowl Sunday.

What would you like to see happen in the NM film industry in the next few years?

New Mexico is becoming synonymous with film-making, and that’s free advertising for us as a movie-making state. The longer the industry is here, the deeper its financial impact and the more ingrained it becomes into our economic culture.

Productions are here largely because of financial incentives. Keeping the New Mexico film incentives competitive is critical to the ongoing success of the industry, and we need to keep proving to the citizens of New Mexico that having film as an economic backbone for the state is a rare and amazing opportunity. I have 600 people in my directory alone who are involved in film, and a lot of them make a great living.

There’s talk of new film studios, a tentative opening of Santa Fe Studios, and a deepening of the industry to include digital media, gaming, and more post-production. Plus, citizens around the state are rallying to bring production to their cities. That’s all good news.

Is there anything specific coming up that people should know about right now?

There are currently six projects shooting in New Mexico, including Due Date starring Robert Downey Jr., Breaking Bad, starring Bryan Cranston, and Passion Play starring Megan Fox and Mickey Rourke.

You can stay up to date on what’s happening in the New Mexico by reading our New Mexico Film Blog, and our Who’s Filming Now pages.

Of course, using our directory, or contacting us directly, is an excellent way to help you get set-up for a scouting trip or production.

Do you have a favorite scene in a movie or a favorite line from a movie?

Any scene and any line from “When Harry Met Sally.” And, of course, anything made in New Mexico.

New Mexico Movie News #2

We're pleased to announce that the second edition of the New Mexico Movie News is live, and can be viewed by clicking this link!

Due Date to Film in Las Cruces - Great Local Resource

Working on Due Date down in Las Cruces? We're going to point you to an excellent local production resource: Tony Martin and Fourteen30 Production Group. Production vans, grip and lighting equipment, Sony HDXCam, and talented crew. Know the ins and outs of shooting in southern New Mexico. Experienced team. Fully rebate-able.

http://www.crewnewmexico.com/fourteen30productions
Contact Tony at 575-621-4560.

Michigan Film Incentives May Be on the Chopping Block

Production Tax Incentives, such as New Mexico's 25% rebate to productions, are at the heart of today's film industry. Michigan has the most aggressive incentive program in the country, but its likely not sustainable, as the article below will demonstrate.

We're proud that New Mexico's incentives are designed to be sustainable and increasingly transparent, and while other states may come and go on the film landscape, we're a core part of the industry for some time to come. - crewnewmexico.com

The tax credit bringing many Hollywood studios to Michigan could soon see some major changes.

Senate Bill 404, a bipartisan proposal that would top the film tax credit off at $50 million and reduce the available refunds by 7 percent, is being discussed.

The refundable film tax credits would be cut to 35 percent from their current rate of 42 percent.

The bill was introduced on March 25 and is sponsored by State Sens. Nancy Cassis, R-Novi; Jud Gilbert, R-Algonac; Tom George, R-Kalamazoo; and Mickey Switalski, R-Roseville.

“We recognize that Michigan has a significant, large deficit of $2.8 billion, and part of what’s contributing to that is the giveaway money to Hollywood producers,” Cassis said.

The bill would be keeping the film tax credit at $50 million, which would scale back a little on overly generous giveaway money, she said.

“These movie producers are currently not paying taxes in Michigan, but are still getting money,” Cassis said.

The bill would just restore funds to other areas of the state, such as police, fire and Medicare, she said.
Cassis said the bill also would support commercial ads and more jobs.

“We would be able to provide credit for commercials to be done here, and we would hire 90 percent of Michigan workers first,” she said.

In the long run, Cassis said, Bill 404 would recognize all the refundable credits that are not necessarily vital and giving relief to other businesses.

State Sen. Jud Gilbert said even though the majority is not in favor of the bill, it is still necessary.

“The bill is necessary because films last for a short duration, which means the money will run out before anyone gets the subsidy,” Gilbert said.

He said the bill would divert money into a tax relief.

“If the bill passes, people will see gradual employment increases in small businesses with longer durations,” Gilbert said.

To read the full article, click here.

Governor’s Council on Film and Media Industries Announces Town Hall Meeting in Las Cruces

SANTA FE – The Governor’s Council on Film and Media Industries will host a town hall meeting to gather input on the future of the state’s burgeoning film and media industries. The event is free and open to the public and will be held from 1:00 to 4:30 PM Thursday, October 8th at the Alma d' arte Charter High School in Las Cruces.

“This is an opportunity for the Council to get direct input from the public so that we can help update Governor Richardson’s plan of action.” said Chairman Michael Kaye.

The event is being held in association with the High Tech Consortium of Southern New Mexico. The schedule includes a listening session, three break-out strategy sessions and a final wrap-up session.

Participants registering online will have an opportunity to help identify breakout sessions from a list including Opportunities in Film; Opportunities in Games, Modeling and Simulation; Building Connections between South and North; Building effective Groups and Organizations; and Developing Education Strategies – or they may suggest their own.

Pre-registration is suggested, as space is limited. To pre-register, visit www.altmedianm.org. Those who cannot attend are encouraged to submit their comments at the online form as well.

Contact: Rochelle Bussey 505.476-5604

Also, don’t miss the free Las Cruces informational session about New Mexico Filmmakers Program and how to prepare a New Visions 2009 application with Program Director, Trish Lopez. Wednesday, October 7th – 7:00pm | Las Cruces: CMI Theatre in Milton Hall on NMSU Campus.

Space is limited, so please call (505) 476-5600 to reserve a seat or for additional information. Applications can be printed online at www.nmfilm.com or picked up in person at the NM Film Office at 418 Montezuma Avenue, Santa Fe, NM. Deadline for applications is October 16, 2009.