Battlestar Galactica: 14th Colony (Fan Film)

[Sept17th]

That is the working title, it may not survive the weekend which is when I hope to have the first draft script done. I am the Producer, writer, Cinematographer and casting agent. Most importantly I am the money around ten grand the last time I calculated and I am the sweat behind this. I have a great talent working the FX, I hope to reveal his identity soon.

I have much to get done, a labor of love. I will use this thread to see who can step up, to see who can help out. Perhaps the staff will sticky this for me.

…so stay tuned I’ll have a list up shortly. Thanks in advance!

Jon

[ernie90125]

Sept17th....

Its great news that you're going to undertake this. I wish you the best of luck...

I'm also so impressed that you're will to spend a lot of money, it really shows commitment....

If I can help out at all, the offer is there. For example, reading your script drafts, whilst keeping them secret, and letting you know my feedback...that's something I'd be very willing to do...

I really wish you all the best on this......

Daniel
PS Can I list your finished piece on the Battlestar Fanfilms website I'm proposing ?

[Dawg]

Consider it stuck, Jon.

;)

I am
Dawg
:warrior:

[KamikazeAthena]

Experienced actress has her own costumes, complete with helmet, and may be able to travel.

Just throwing that out there.... :)

[Sept17th]

Experienced actress has her own costumes, complete with helmet, and may be able to travel.

Just throwing that out there.... :)
Excellent, where are you located just country or state? PM me if you will feel more comfortable.



This reminds me of a need for this project.

Colonial Warrior uniform patterns: I will explore having one of my theatre connections make costumes for me. I spent almost a thousand dollars on one warrior costume excluding helmet. I will do more exploring at Dewback Wing ASAP http://p082.ezboard.com/fpropreplicasfrm86 but I am not finding patterns.



The following two short paragraphs will be the focus and driving motivation for this effort.

Mission Statement

My goal really is starting around the beginning of 2007 we see the Next Chapter in Battlestar Galactica Fandom. A couple of fan made shorts that people start buzzing about. Threads about ideas, people hooking up and wanting in on the fun.

WE making the Battlestar Galactica films and telling the stories the studio won’t give us.

WE leaving our mark among genre fans doing some really great work that folks download and spread.

Perhaps start an underground phenomenon that spurs on the following chapter after that. Some day we’ll all look back at Big Al Col. Charybdis’ film as our Kobol. http://www.battlestarcallisto.net/downloads.htm


Originally Posted by Dawg
We do that by coming up with short, original work starring ourselves and our talents. We do what the Star Trek and Star Wars fans did - there's a thriving culture of fan films in both of those universes. We need to reach that same level. They did not start with Walter Koenig in a guest-star role, they started with fans in cheap costumes with 8mm cameras and Beta video recorders.

[Sept17th]

I’m extremely pleased to announce that our own rjandron is the FX producer for my fan film. He will be my main and first point of contact for issues FX related. He will put together the FX team. He will run the team, who does what, where and when.

For all you CGI/FX types looking to help out and get on board I will be asking you to coordinate with him starting next month after he has had a chance to read the draft script.

…now back to my Cylon solution, I’m finally making head way!

[KamikazeAthena]

I live in California, near San Francisco. If things worked out for everyone, with some notice, I probably could be convinced to take a week off from work to do filming. What do I expect out of it? Well, nothing personally. But frankly I am tired of all these great Star Wars fan film and it is time we BSG Fans got our due! :salute:

I will also PM you with some contact info.

[WarMachine]

I’m extremely pleased to announce that our own rjandron is the FX producer for my fan film. He will be my main and first point of contact for issues FX related. He will put together the FX team. He will run the team, who does what, where and when.

For all you CGI/FX types looking to help out and get on board I will be asking you to coordinate with him starting next month after he has had a chance to read the draft script.

…now back to my Cylon solution, I’m finally making head way!

Doin' my part: http://www.finaldraft.com/products/fd-features.php4 Still here for advice.....

[ernie90125]

Sept17th,

Your mission statement is certainly worthy of reading and supporting. I wish you all the best.

My offer of help, eg reading through your script and commenting etc always stands.

Furthermore, I've mentioned in threads you've participated in that I'm starting a website listing, reviewing and linking to all the BSG TOS fanfilms. When your production is complete, may I include it on my website ?

Once again, you have my best wishes, and please do keep us up to date !

[Titon]

Good luck to Rj and Jon.

;)

[Sept17th]

Sept17th,

Your mission statement is certainly worthy of reading and supporting. I wish you all the best...I'm starting a website listing, reviewing and linking to all the BSG TOS fanfilms. When your production is complete, may I include it on my website ?

Absolutely, I hope for a short time my film is the crown jewel of your site. I say short time because I hope something comes along quickly that blows my film away

Good luck to Rj and Jon.

I hope you consider jumping on board. :salute:

I I probably could be convinced to take a week off from work to do filming. What do I expect out of it? Well, nothing personally. But frankly I am tired of all these great Star Wars fan film and it is time we BSG Fans got our due! :salute:

Thanks, I'll keep you in the loop.

[Sept17th]

10-25-05
All right boys and girls children of All ages this is fun. I turned in the first draft of the script to my FX producer and he did not laugh or tell me to slag off. A good sign, thank you RJ.

I spend a lot of time at work running fan film production details through my head. Don’t tell the boss. I smile most times lately like today…check with me when cameras roll to see how my mood is. There will be a lot happening this year. I won’t be as tight lipped as Tom DeSanto…no I have no illusions of grandeur thinking I’m a Tom DeSanto. I won’t be as open as Ron Moore letting everyone scrutinize every aspect of the production. Can’t let my plans for Adama the hermaphrodite get out in public. I will continue to keep people in the loop here and eventually elsewhere.

The next step is talking to folks, like on the phone while I’m back in the states. Work on the second draft and the fun stuff conceptual art. YEAH!

[ernie90125]

Thanks for keeping us updated............

I'm pleased things seem to be going well......

[spcglider]

Sept 17th,

This is not me volunteering, but giving you a direct order.

When you have assembled your props list, you will send it to me and I will do whatever I can to help you fill it.

I have a full prop-shop at my disposal and can make up decent mock-ups as well as hero props depending on their camera proximity.

-Gordon
spcglider@aol.com

[ernie90125]

Gordon,

You're making a very generous offer to Sept17th, who in turn is working hard to provide us with something to enjoy. This is the spirit of Battlestar Galactica. This is the spirit of Colonial Fleets. This is the spirit of this fandom.

In a few posts you have shown this spirit clearly Gordon, and you're very very welcome here.

A while ago Don announced the direction of Fleets was towards creativity. I started a thread a little later about us all working together towards a common goal of a fan made/influenced Continuation

I'm, and I'm sure Don is, very pleased to see that some people, including a new member, are embracing this spirit and moving us all forward. This is great stuff....

[ernie90125]

Oh yeah.....what is a hero prop ?

[spcglider]

All productions, in order to save money, will commission "beauty" or "hero" props. This is generally one or two really perfect versions of whatever it is they are looking for...especially if it's a gun or a hand-held prop that'll be seen close-up on screen. Have you ever wondered why most of the stuff in the Star Wars exibit looks like dookie? I mean aside from the fact that it's over 30 years old... its because none of that stuff was ever meant to be seen close-up. There's alot of things they get away with in film that will be more and more difficult as Hi Def comes into use.

Most of the background blasters on Galactica looked like shite. Once again, because they were never intended to be seen close up. If you look at the helmets sitting in the holder shelf at the back of the warriors quarters, you can see that some of them don't even have crests on them.

Anyway, if you're having a bunch of background extras, you don't need to equip every one of them with FullBores and a flawless blaster casting and a working computron. You can give them wooden blocks painted black and detailed with red gumdrops and silver mylar for computrons. The camera won't know the difference... and neither will the audience unless you blab about it. :)

If you go to www.starshipexeter.com and watch the "Tressaurian Intersection" act 1, you'll see a bunch of seeming "sets" that look like they've been torn to shreds. They're all miniatures. And not exceptionally detailed ones at that. I built them.

My wife and I are what we term "chronic helpers". We like to help people do cool stuff.

This could be cool stuff. As long as you make it so.

-Gordon :viper:

[Sept17th]

Gordon, thanks for making that easier, it has been my intention to get in contact with you. At some point soon we’ll trade phone numbers and talk. I’ll be back in the United States November 1st for two weeks perhaps we should talk then.

Gordon,

You're making a very generous offer to Sept17th, who in turn is working hard to provide us with something to enjoy. This is the spirit of Battlestar Galactica. This is the spirit of Colonial Fleets. This is the spirit of this fandom...

You are right man! I won't be working alone! For this film to happen it will take effort from the fans. One of the fun aspects of getting ready to do this is watching the great fan films out there. So please indulge some thoughts and web quoting.

my mantra, "you don't ask, you don't get" were words to live by. Many people were willing to help "Revelations". All we had to do was ask. Star Wars is beloved by many and instantly recognizable.

…my mantra, "You don't ask, you don't get" worked wonders. All I had to do was present to vendors what we were doing, show them the production value, and sometimes pay a little. But most of the time all you have to do is ask.

I believe those quotes come from Shane Felux the director or Dawn Cowings the producer of Star Wars: Revelations. Those will be words for me to live by as this progresses. I know we are fewer, I know we are just as passionate as Star Wars fans. Let’s show them all.


Similar fan films such as "Batman Dead End" spent around 30K for a 8min piece and fan trailers such as "Grayson" cost close to 17K for a 5min piece. Also from the Revelations FAQ.

Like everyone reading this board I just can’t do that people. I’m just a regular family man. I learned a painful and valuable lesson about debt and living within ones means during college. I’ll grab from savings and spend as I go but clever elbow grease and volunteers will be needed to make up where cash is short.

While on the subject of Star Wars: Revelations it and IMPS: Relentless are the standard, the bar to reach and maybe surpass.

http://www.panicstruckpro.com/revelations/revelations.html


http://impstherelentless.com/tek9.asp

Another thought about a subject that comes up a lot regarding Fan Films: Actors. One of the few things Revelations gets bagged on about is the acting. Many articles mention it and on forums comments boarder on the hurtful and cruel. It’s not for lack of effort Felux I believe is from WV with Gina and Frank Hernandez coming from Jersey for a period over three years! The Hernandez couple’s acting resume is pretty stout and blows mine away. Frankly I don’t want to cast my self I want some one better who can fit into my warrior uniform. I’m not looking for the next Oscar winner but my goal is to get acting performances worthy of RJ’s special effects. Every speaking role will be auditioned I’m looking for actors first, looking and sounding the part, being fans of the franchise is almost irrelevant.

Last thoughts for today: What the hell is the film about? The first draft is barely dry and things will change and evolve a bit over the next six months. The time will come but not for now. It’s looking around twenty minutes. A fake movie trailer. Will the whole episode ever be shot? Maybe but I’ve committed to some else’s story first, yes there will be more than one Battlestar Galactica fan film. My story takes places some thirty years after Hand of God…I’ve seen the reaction of recasting Starbuck it aint pretty. We have talked much about continuation the film will be away to see what it might look like.

[spcglider]

The first episode of Starship Exeter cost the guys about 20K. But you'd be amazed how easy it is to scrape together 20K a few bucks at a time. As long as you have the time to make it part of your normal spending habits. Sell stuff on ebay, have a bake sale, a garage sale, whatever. Get a seed and keep watering it.

The other thing is to WRITE CHEAP. I've seen some pretty fantastic digital models of the galactica interiors out there. Using a green-screen (available on eBay of all places for a truly fair dollar investment) is a perfect way to keep costs down.

The fact is this: You WILL NOT have a full scale Viper to use in your shots. BUT you CAN manage enough (couple hundred bucks) to build a very nice replica cockpit that can be gimabled and such for close up shots. That sort of thing goes a long way.

Another thing to consider: Apollo and Starbuck aren't the only warriors on board the Galactica. In fact, we never even SAW Red Squadron during the run of the show. What... were they on the "night shift" or something? You could do whole episodes starring the entire "evening crew" of the Galactica. If you really want a tie to the real show, have Commander Adama appear on the screen and give some orders with a voice-over. Or Tigh, or whomever. You could probably get Richard Hatch to do a few lines for you at a convention in front of a small green screen. He could appear on a monitor and even interact with your actors. But keep it VERY breif. And be prepared to pay him a stipend or even a full hour's rate. It would be worth the investment for the realism it would bring to your show. (Remember when George Takei appeared in a fan film of Star Trek back in the late 1970's?)

Oh yeah... and try to keep your cast SMALL. I know everybody wants to get in front of the camera in a fan film and hey... why not? They're free. But the fact is, if someone commits to be in the show, they have to COMMIT. They have to realize they are NEEDED to get the project done. There will be hours of tedium and boredom waiting around for everyone else to get their stuff ready so the camera can roll. Don't let anyone get all excited about being in it and then duck out because they aren't feeling like they are the star.

You will also be having to shoot more than one day. PERIOD. Get that through eveybody's head. They will ALL have to be available on numerous dates for shooting and such. Its a long-term commitment. That means not only the actors, but the camera guy and the lighting guy and the set construction guys and make-up guy and script prompter guy and production assistant guy... you know EVERYBODY. Its really a pisser when everybody shows up except for the camera guy and nobody can get a hold of him because he's sleeping off a bender.
In short: NO, its' not too much to ask people to act professionally even if they are volunteers. But you have to stress that from the very first minute... BEFORE they commit. They have to know what's expected of them.

Blah blah blah. I sure can pontificate, can't I?

-Gordon

[ernie90125]

Is your storyline that of The Second Coming ? Can you descibe your basic story outline ?

Does anyone know the name or where we can see the fanfilm starring George Takei ? Its often mentioned, so it would be great to learn/see more.

I never intend to make hurtful comments about fan's work. I'd like to think everyone here on Fleets encourages others to fulfill their potential. But it is fan's acting that often is the let down compared to professional productions. You're wise to hold auditions.

I'm not sure that Richard would accept a role in a fanfilm, as to not upset his current employers. I also understand Dirk has been asked but declined. However, perhaps others would be worth asking ? Terry Carter and Anne Lockhart have a reputation for hearing fans out....maybe if BSG fans have one major production achievement, they might be prepared to consider being in a second ?

I absolutely agree with the advice of Gordon about writing cheap. I'd also advise a priority list of scenes, so you're not stuck if you can't get one scene. Plan B and alternate avenues should be well planned.

I'm looking forwards to reading here and on your blog of any updates........

[Warrior]

Costumes needed, aka pre-made? www.battlestargalactica.org

[spcglider]

It would be a great help if battlestargalactica.org donated the USE of uniforms for the film. Damaged uniforms would be purchased and pristine uniforms would be returned for sale. They could even market them as "screen used" in a fan film. If the film turns out well, it could be a great selling point. Or perhaps for a credit (a really BIG one), batlestargalactica.org might cut you a deal on the uniforms or perhaps sell you un-adorned uniforms and you could sew on your own braid and supply your own patches and insignia. It certainly would help the overall look of the film to have the uniforms be all the same shade of tan and made from the same materials. Everybody has their own idea of what that tan color (or blue color) is. So I dont think I've ever seen two fan uniforms look exactly the same in the same lighting.

Of course, the best thing would be to find actors who are willing to foot the bill for their own uniforms!

As for getting the stars to participate, that's the main reason why I suggested that they appear solo on a monitor giving instructions or warnings or "be careful out there"s. That way, they are somewhat removed from the actual production and in the event that the film is somehow embarrassing to them, they can easily say "they caught me in a generous moment at a con" and distance themselves from the embarrassment.

I think names were more willing to do this sort of thing before the internet. usually fan films were only ever seen late at night in a private room at a convention. Now they can be seen by anyone anywhere anytime.

I'm sure you'll have to promise to leave their names out of it. No promoting your film with "STARRING: ANNE 'SHEBA' LOCKHEART". That would be bad. But as a little treat for the fans, it would be a really cool thing. Of course, you'd have to figure out how to help them avoid being approached by every fan out there who's contemplating making a film... that could get tiring really fast.

But hey, Richard's an actor. So's Dirk. And Anne and Terry. If you talk with their agents and pay them their day rate, maybe they'd consider it seriously. I mean, Richard doesn't have anything to crow about when it comes to the quality of films he's been in (did you see any of his stuff from the mid-80's?). Just a matter of making it business. Looks like another bake sale to me.

Remember: jus because it's a fan film doesn't mean that it can't operate like a professional one.

-Gordon

[ernie90125]

I'm sure you'll have to promise to leave their names out of it. No promoting your film with "STARRING: ANNE 'SHEBA' LOCKHEART". That would be bad.

Why ?????

I'm totally polar opposite to this view. Firstly, I think your obliged morally (and possibly legally?) to credit appropriately. (with their consent of course)

Secondly that would be a MAJOR plus to a fanfilm. Just look at the references the Sulu Fanfilm still gets all these many many years later. Any other fanfilm from that long ago has been forgotten - that Star Trek one is still talked about even on a Battlestar Galactica messageboard !

It would also help us give a clear signal as a fanbase of how serious we are...and how dedicated we, and the original cast are, to getting a Continuation. The Second Coming didn't miss of its strongest asset in the credits......nor did the Space1999 production...or the Star Wars production that the had original cast members in....

Gordon......no offense.....you've given great advice and support....but I am of a polar opposite opinion to you on that one. In a big way.

[spcglider]

No offense taken. ;)

First off, I haven't seen the George Takei fan film...so I don't know if he's been actually credited or not. But once again, that film was made back in the 1970's before there was an internet. I was unaware that any of the Star Wars stars had been involved with fan productions... I don't like Star Wars so I avoid watching their fan films as often as possible. :barf:

There are myriad reasons why you may not legally be able to promote your film that way.

First, there may be SAG (Screen Actor's Guild) rules that prevent it. There may be contractual obligations between the actor and their agent that prevent it. The studio may take umbrage that you're playing in their sandbox and prevent it. Perhaps, just maybe the actors themselves wouldn't desire it. :no:

I may not have been clear in my ramblings above, though, so your opposition may be based on my mushy explanation. If you HIRE Richard or Dirk or Anne or Terry or Larry or Noah or Eve the Chimp for that matter, and actually pay their day-rate and all that goes with it, you have the right and obligation to credit them in your film. If they do it for you as a lark or a favor or just out of the goodness of their hearts, it would be completely up to them and their agent and the rules of the union how to apply the credit. Some actors might not want to have their name on a fan film. I can't imagine that it would harm their career, but some might not want it for their own reasons.

Also, if Anne Lockheart (for an example) appears in your 20 minute film for a total of 1 minute on a non-synched video screen and says "Congratulations warriors! You've successfully completed your mission!" you wouldn't necessarily want to oversell her involvement. "Special Guest Star" maybe... "Reprising their role as" possibly...but STARRING? I'm sure there are SAG rules about that too. But then again, I've never talked with Anne about this subject (or any other)... maybe she'd WANT to be labelled as the STAR. :)

Its just a matter of being careful is all I'm saying. Most studios are pretty liberal about allowing fans to make films like this... but you have to get REAL intimate with the unspoken rules of "gong too far". The problem is that it's a sliding scale. What's okay with Lucasfilm or Paramount might NOT be okay with Universal. And depending on who it is in the legal department who discovers your fan film, you might be okay or you might be declared an "enemy of the state" and get a cease and desist order.

This probably didn't help at all. Did it?

-Gordon

[ernie90125]

Gordon,

Your response now more directly addresses the issue you were wanting to discuss.

The best way of tackling any original cast endevours, is by asking them. Then the ball is in their court. Your second post far more clearly makes your point, than your first which just said we shouldn't and it would be bad. Your second post is now much more clear. We should ask them, and with that I 100% agree.

Interestingly, I have heard from an excellent source, that Universal no longer holds the likeness rights and therefore individual agreements with people must be made to do stuff. Except from old stock photos etc. So that is a mjor ball back in the cast's court. And Larson holds the theatrical rights...so a fair amount of BSG's future is out of Universal's hands.

Universal could shut down anything they wanted classic BSG related at any time. They could send a cease and desist to this site for the use of artwork - captured or remade. They choose not to do this, and I understand the general rule is not to make a profit, and things should be OK.

What we need to do, is mount a production.....show the cast and world how serious we are, and then see what people's reaction is. If I was a cast member, I wouldn't come onboard until I saw real results and chances of success.

So the first ball is in our court, and I salute Sept17th for having the guts and 'get up and go' to start it rolling....

[Sept17th]

The subject has come up. Firstly the film will not hinge in any way for a TOS actor to perform. The film will have to be nearly done and sent with any request. How a TOS actor would be credited would be up to the actor.

[ernie90125]

Exactly the right angle to take Sept17th.......in my view....

[spcglider]

You're right. I simply assumed that a cast member might not want to be credited. If I were an actor from the original show I would probably want to go uncredited just to avoid any legal troubles that might remain unforseen.

And yes... I applaud Sept17th as well. I'll really make a hoopla when his project is well and truly underway. :salute:

And please, PLEASE don't infer from my "playing devils' advocate" that I am poo-pooing the effort in the least (not that I'm accusing you of that.. I'm not). We DO need more of this sort of thing. Its part of what makes the internet and fandom an interesting place to hang out. :)

Jeebus it's difficult to get intent across sometimes in written form!!! :blink:

I love the English language, but sometimes it's frustrating!

-Gordon

[Sept17th]

Gordon, you and Ernie are making very good points and your passion for TOS material is clear. We'll be having some great fun over the next year. :salute:

[Sept17th]

An Example of Help/Support

I just got back from packing and shipping off my Colonial Warrior uniform to friend for use in his fan film project. With boots, blaster and holster the ensemble runs around $1,000 not including shipping. A lot of money from just regular working folk will go into the Battlestar Galactica: 14th Colony film, it’s looking like $15,000. A copyrighted property none of us can profit from. We do it for the passion we have toward franchise.

As this project rolls on there will be things needed. I hope those who share the passion and believe in what we are doing will help.

[ernie90125]

I can share nothing physical...but I can continue to share my advice where possible. My offer also remains open to include it on my Battlestar Fanfilms website.

You're right it is a copyrighted property none of his can profit from......but we can certainly all benefit from it.....

[Sept17th]

Now Listed at FanFilms.Net

Battlestar Galactica needed to be there now it is, we have staked our claim with Battlestar Galactica: 14th Colony. I’ve been looking around and this is some good fun. Al needs to add his Battlestar Calisto films and Martok must see Alien 5.2

www.fanfilms.net

[The 14th Colony]

Battlestar Galactica: 14th Colony.
That is the working title, it may not survive the weekend which is when I hope to have the first draft script done. I am the Producer, writer, Cinematographer and casting agent. Most importantly I am the money around ten grand the last time I calculated and I am the sweat behind this. I have a great talent working the FX, I hope to reveal his identity soon.

I have much to get done, a labor of love. I will use this thread to see who can step up, to see who can help out. Perhaps the staff will sticky this for me.

…so stay tuned I’ll have a list up shortly. Thanks in advance!

Jon
That's quite a nifty title you have there. I hope I get due royalties! ;)


Good luck to ya! :thumbsup:

[Sept17th]

The Big Five Conventions?

What are the Big Five sci-fi/fantasy cons that screen independent/fan films? I am aware of Dragon*Con give me five more.

[moabyte]

Fan Films are the best! Good luck to you all.

[Sept17th]

Fan Films are the best! Good luck to you all.

Thanks Byte...you can keep up on progress here. Look for a short teaser in the spring of 2006.

[Sept17th]

;) Egads, you sticky the wrong thread

[Warrior]

Nah. it's the right one- Your help thread. This thread *you* must keep alive ;)

[captmiloman]

No offense taken. ;)

First off, I haven't seen the George Takei fan film...so I don't know if he's been actually credited or not. But once again, that film was made back in the 1970's before there was an internet. I was unaware that any of the Star Wars stars had been involved with fan productions... I don't like Star Wars so I avoid watching their fan films as often as possible. :barf:

There are myriad reasons why you may not legally be able to promote your film that way.

First, there may be SAG (Screen Actor's Guild) rules that prevent it. There may be contractual obligations between the actor and their agent that prevent it. The studio may take umbrage that you're playing in their sandbox and prevent it. Perhaps, just maybe the actors themselves wouldn't desire it. :no:


I may not have been clear in my ramblings above, though, so your opposition may be based on my mushy explanation. If you HIRE Richard or Dirk or Anne or Terry or Larry or Noah or Eve the Chimp for that matter, and actually pay their day-rate and all that goes with it, you have the right and obligation to credit them in your film. If they do it for you as a lark or a favor or just out of the goodness of their hearts, it would be completely up to them and their agent and the rules of the union how to apply the credit. Some actors might not want to have their name on a fan film. I can't imagine that it would harm their career, but some might not want it for their own reasons.

Also, if Anne Lockheart (for an example) appears in your 20 minute film for a total of 1 minute on a non-synched video screen and says "Congratulations warriors! You've successfully completed your mission!" you wouldn't necessarily want to oversell her involvement. "Special Guest Star" maybe... "Reprising their role as" possibly...but STARRING? I'm sure there are SAG rules about that too. But then again, I've never talked with Anne about this subject (or any other)... maybe she'd WANT to be labelled as the STAR. :)

Its just a matter of being careful is all I'm saying. Most studios are pretty liberal about allowing fans to make films like this... but you have to get REAL intimate with the unspoken rules of "gong too far". The problem is that it's a sliding scale. What's okay with Lucasfilm or Paramount might NOT be okay with Universal. And depending on who it is in the legal department who discovers your fan film, you might be okay or you might be declared an "enemy of the state" and get a cease and desist order.

This probably didn't help at all. Did it?

-Gordon



As you said about SAG, that's the main reason why The Second Coming Trailer isn't availble for sale or online. Richard would have to pay the cast scale. He'd already sunk a bunch of money into the project(maxed out credit cards, mortgage on his home, etc.) There was a SW fan film("Dark Redemption") which featured one of the extras from A New Hope(Episode 4) who reprised his role as the Imperial Officer who was swatted by Chewbaca in the DS control room. That particular filmmaker was given a C & D order by Lucasfilm. Of course, he was making a profit from the film. That's a big no-no with any copyrighted material.

[ernie90125]

I've seen the SW fanfilm you mention....but freely, I didn't pay for it ? I didn't realise it had been sold by anyone...

The big no-no is making money or pi**ing off the copyright owners. The other example I can think of is the guy who re-edited The Phantom Mence to exclude JarJar. Whilst popular with fans, I understand Lucas took it personally, not to mention it was his mostly film then freely made available.

That's why there is a rule for submissions to my site...that whilst a few snippets of video and audio is pretty common, I won't accept whole re-edits where people have basically cut up a copyright production, switched a few scenes around and called it their own fanfilm. It's come up before.

[ray243]

well...I can't really help out much..but maybe you could try visiting this site. http://www.scifi-meshes.com/forums/

It is one of the largest sci-fi modelling community I've known and I am sure you can get a certain amount of help out there as well. By the way, TOS-BSG fans can also start posting more of their works there...gosh we need more TOS models out there...

[Lord Kingjason]

See Viper 1's most recently posted stuff? TOS series models wise.

Far as the 14th Colony BG movie goes... Sept17 answer those pms i send you, i want to ask you something in private?

Another on here would be when another "Battlestar Galactica 14th Colony" trailer is due out?

KJ

[Sept17th]

New Feature at the Web Site

I wanted to give RJ a chance to announce the news for the new feature at www.battlestarfanfilm.org because he was the catalyst for getting this going but I’m too excited. So check it out.

There has been a tremendous amount of outstanding work being done in preproduction, and we wanted to make sure that Battlestar fans had a chance to appreciate some of what we have been privileged to see over the past few months. In this sub-forum, we'll be posting a weekly featured image that shows off the work done by a member of the production team. Also on deck are animations, story hints, production diaries, and a lot more.

[Sept17th]

http://battlestarfanfilm.org/smf/index.php?topic=288.0

http://battlestarfanfilm.org/smf/index.php?topic=274.0

Hey! Just a note from a cast member of "BSG The 14th Colony". I am proud and excited to be portraying Orin, son of Apollo, and grandson of Adama in this film. After a couple of formal (and some informal) meetings of the cast and crew, I must say I am thrilled to be a part of this project. The scrrenplay is fantastic, and there is a level of excitement here among all involved that can only result in a great film. Keep watching this forum, as there will be, no doubt, be several exciting updates as we move forward. John has a great vision, and has assembled a great cast of actors (not just fans). Keep watching. This will be a thing of beauty.

[Sept17th]

Check out the latest Featured Image:

http://www.battlestarfanfilm.org/main/

My thoughts on this amazing work.

Awesome simply amazing, I look forward to the animation of Cylon centurions coming off the back of their troop transport. A legit question has come up often enough, why are there 3 Cylons flying a raider? True answer it looked for good for television, another answer when used for assault the raider could drop 3 troops, whether for capturing a ship or killing the inhabitants of a city. This craft is an assault troop transport dropping up to twenty heartless automatons on hapless folks. Kudos Brian!

This is also a fine example of how we will approach up dating the source material while truly staying faithful to it. Rest assured staying faithful is not lip service.

[Sept17th]

Update image this week.

http://battlestarfanfilm.org/smf/index.php?topic=355.0

This featured image shows the Celestra, built by Taranis, defending itself from a Cylon Attack.

[Lord Kingjason]

Yo Sept17th

Considering your project is getting better all the time, thought you'll like to check out Filmfestival magazine with is available in privately owned cinemas (in the U.K.). the recent April/May/June issue has something on sci-fi films that may interest you.

The website for the magazine is at:

www.thefilmfestivalmagazine.com

Its got articles and topics on how to finance your movies and helpful advice on adveristing them.

Thought this might be of some serious help!

Anyways, just trying to be helpful is all.

Laters

KJ

P.S. Read up on the Sci-Fi London (The London International festival of science fiction and fantasy film) if its on the site as an article. Its got some very MUST READ paragraphs on the science fiction genre on the whole and how its seen in general by the general public, its strengths and weaknesses etc. And how one should view the Sci-fi genre as an up coming filmmakers!

[Sept17th]

Thanks KJ, I'll check it out!

[Aussie Warrior]

That preview shot is absolutely fantastic looking, looks like the fleet has got some firepower

[Creep]

Wow I really liked that trailer. Can't wait to see the whole movie :thumbsup:

[rjandron]

We have been quite busy behind the scenes lately. We have revamped the website to add in some new content:

* We have added a Featured Artist Interview with Taranis
* We have added two new Featured Images by Taranis to the front page.
* We have added a Lexicon of all things Galactica--written by Michael Cessna and Bill Teel.

There will be a lot more being added as we work towards completing the film: The 14th Colony.

Have a look over at Battlestarfanfilm.org (http://www.battlestarfanfilm.org)

[Lord Kingjason]

Glad to hear it, i wanna hear how the production on this fanbased Galactica film is going anyhow! And any intereview with talented CF folks like Taranis is bound to be something great to look forward to for all Battlestar Galactica fans and casual science fiction types.

KJ

[Armitage]

fanmovies are cool.....

[Lord Kingjason]

Sept17th you need to burp your PM's man, it getting to a point where a guy can't send you anything?

Laters

KJ

[Lord Kingjason]

Is there going to be any updates for this project at all soon?

Like maybe a trailer thats not a teaser but is definitely much longer with some actual ongoing story footage in it. Whats with all the nice pictures and test footage of clips over there, but no actual new trailers though.

As you know, i certainly support what you folks are doing with the 14th Colony movie, i think its high time Battlestar Galactica got some inspirational fanbased projects like this out there along side the Star Wars And Star Trek sci-fi inspired ones, and its incredible and smart thinking, going for one thats seems to be well planned out and is obviously looking very much of a high production standard, as epic as any BSG production official or fan produced today or later by others should always be.

But when are there going to be any major updates and trailers kicking about via links and up on youtube and the like.

Has the 14th Colony project film, grown into something even bigger still?

KJ

[Gemini1999]

KJ -

I'd say that the lack of updates are very telling.... I don't think it's dead, but the project has obviously fallen so far behind schedule, that people have actually forgotten when it was originally supposed to be released. I don't mean to sound so snarky about it, but I really think that fanfilm projects in general shouldn't even bother to post a release date until they've at least completed all of the live action photography. It's just too misleading and somewhat disappointing for those that are on the outside of the project. I remember being really enthused about the project when the announcement and the trailer were released what seems like yahrens ago (and it was), but now I feel really skeptical about seeing it at all.

Put me in the "I'll believe it when I see it" category....

Bryan

[ernie90125]

I 100% believe in this project and I'm also 100% sure this project will come to fruitian.

Its not easy self-financing projects and taking them from you mind through to completion, I'd done it myself.

This fanfilm will be a major asset to the osBSG fanbase and some of the original cast are aware of this project. We need to stand united in encouraging all involved.......

[Sept17th]

Working this film to reality has been some of the most fun and some of the most depressing ways of spending my time and cash. As the winter holidays approached I became bitter while coming closest to saying “the hell with this” project. Costuming this film is incredibly expensive off the rack, I put together the best team of experienced people I could in my small town. Perhaps I should have screamed and pleaded louder but the fan base was not willing to loan anything. There is one exception of a gentleman making very kind offers with some very expensive Cylon stuff. I also learned I’m not very good at pressing volunteers, people on the Live Shoot crew are very talented and passionate but also very busy. The special effects crew is no less busy and has been the bright spot through everything. I once thought three years to complete Star Wars: Revelations was laughable, I don’t laugh anymore. While the film continued to stall the actors and our community theatre moved along. I my self am playing Paul Sheldon in Misery and some dude named Clarence in Richard III, the point is I need to be flexible working around the Gaslight Theatre’s season schedule.

Maybe it is spring; for certain I still have the burning passion for Battlestar Galactica so we are pressing on. RJ and I are slowly getting back on the same page. Recent hurdles are one of my main actors is moving 1,500 miles away, I could get tapped any day now for a tour of the ‘Stans or Iraq. It appears one of my most vexing costumes issues are finally going to be resolved by the end of the month so we can shoot nice big chunks in April.

Like every one here I’m aware the 30th anniversary is coming in September we hope to have something special for you all on the 17th. Perhaps like Bryan though you should keep expectations low so as not be disappointed

[Lord Kingjason]

I'd say that the lack of updates are very telling.... I don't think it's dead, but the project has obviously fallen so far behind schedule, that people have actually forgotten when it was originally supposed to be released. I don't mean to sound so snarky about it, but I really think that fanfilm projects in general shouldn't even bother to post a release date until they've at least completed all of the live action photography. It's just too misleading and somewhat disappointing for those that are on the outside of the project. I remember being really enthused about the project when the announcement and the trailer were released what seems like yahrens ago (and it was), but now I feel really skeptical about seeing it at all.

Put me in the "I'll believe it when I see it" category....

I know, every now and then i think of alot of various fanfilms that i've heard about and check'em out. My favorites still being previous ones like Batman: Dead End, Star Wars I.M.P.S. (and various european SW fan movies), Captain Harlock, Starship Exeter and the Superman Super-8 movie (haven't seen it since 2000, but it was some cool a*s sh*t)

A Galactica project like this is dying to be made. Producers of them obviously don't have an easy time making it, afterall investing bare amounts of cash into a fan movie, is to make something that won't earn a penny back and is there for exposure to your talents, skills and pure passion for making what you love and whatnot etc.

But we've had 2 previous 'shafts' from the studios in not bringing Galactica back as a continuation. Saying no to greenlighting Richard Hatch's BSG: The Second Coming and stopping the 2001 Singer/DeSanto Battlestar Galactica production that had hollywood's money poured into it and was a mere 2 weeks aways from actual filming! Now saying a fan film's going to follow suit would also be a depressing thought as well and the third major blow to fans who want to see this happen like myself and tons of other fans on the internet and those off it?



Working this film to reality has been some of the most fun and some of the most depressing ways of spending my time and cash. As the winter holidays approached I became bitter while coming closest to saying “the hell with this” project. Costuming this film is incredibly expensive off the rack, I put together the best team of experienced people I could in my small town. Perhaps I should have screamed and pleaded louder but the fan base was not willing to loan anything. There is one exception of a gentleman making very kind offers with some very expensive Cylon stuff.

Can't say we all know the full story of the BSG 14th Colony movie, but i truly hope your production picks up soon enough Sept17th. And if your shooting a fan movie story of Galactica 30 years later, why not try to alter and stylise the costumes logically forward by 30 years as well? Or tatter up the Colonial Warrior jackets and uniforms by aging them (kit-bashing), i'm open to a few liberities taken if it works well enough for your movie.

Also considering how things have changed in both cinema and video games, well all tend to like things alot bigger these days. Small hand guns/laser pistols, are out and huge "gatling guns" and rife sized blaster weapons and 'body armor/flak jackets' are in. As are holographic 'computer readouts' in fighter ships, take a good look at whats unconventional and yet also sci-fi-ish, and adapt it into your production. Even after 30 years cannibalising off each others ships for parts and making all kinds of changes, i'm sure the Rag Tag Fleet came up with all-new creations and the same look of the TV series, should have altered quite a bit. Even for familiarity sakes to lure us all in, i wouldn't mind 45% to 50% percent changes in the 14th Colony's production!

Thus this might make producing it easier somewhat? i hope i does mate.

Anyways, thank you for the news reply that you've given us here.

I’m not very good at pressing volunteers, people on the Live Shoot crew are very talented and passionate but also very busy. The special effects crew is no less busy and has been the bright spot through everything. I once thought three years to complete Star Wars: Revelations was laughable, I don’t laugh anymore.

Dude try ComicCon this year, journey there and meet up with fellow fan filmmakers! also use ComicCon to promote awareness of the 14th Colony Battlestar Galactica movie, surely thats a smart enough move to follow at least!

I have a friend who's into filmmaking, not a close friend i know alot of so i don't see alot of him, but one who i could put you guys in touch with once he's back from filming whatever?!? He says he might do Cannes this year to get money for his film production (he works as a producer, so he tells me?) When i see him again at the comic book shop in London that he works part-time at, i'll definitely give him a bell and then i'll be back to ask you for any contact details!

Is that o.k. :thumbsup:

KJ

P.S. Don't forget that Jonny Yong Boch myspace thing i gave you a while back. He might be at ComicCon this year and be interested in being the stunt man on your film? Who knows. Remember its not always what you know, but "WHO" you know *wink*. Make contacts in all the right places and your production would start moving again with more powerful folks onboard.

Find out what Glen Larson's going this year even and where he'll be so you could meet up with him or the original cast members, Sept17th. Dirk Benedict's very layed back, i'm sure you'd peak his interests in this and all.

I'd love to go to ComicCon this year, but traveling overseas cos cash and does the hotel fees etc, and i'd need to work my ass off on my art portfolio as always. And knowing me, i'd need an extra suitcase to bring back the DVD's, T-Shirts and comics i'd buy up.

I'd better plan for next year!

[Lord Kingjason]

P.S. Tell you what, i'll pass by that comic shop tomorrow and see if he is about. So burp your PM's cos i might need to give you a shout if he does give me any info for you! But it really depends if he's about, could be now or a few weeks from now as he doesn't work there everyday.

Alright!

Hope thats cool with you.

Laters

KJ

[Gemini1999]

Working this film to reality has been some of the most fun and some of the most depressing ways of spending my time and cash. As the winter holidays approached I became bitter while coming closest to saying “the hell with this” project. Costuming this film is incredibly expensive off the rack, I put together the best team of experienced people I could in my small town. Perhaps I should have screamed and pleaded louder but the fan base was not willing to loan anything. There is one exception of a gentleman making very kind offers with some very expensive Cylon stuff. I also learned I’m not very good at pressing volunteers, people on the Live Shoot crew are very talented and passionate but also very busy. The special effects crew is no less busy and has been the bright spot through everything. I once thought three years to complete Star Wars: Revelations was laughable, I don’t laugh anymore. While the film continued to stall the actors and our community theatre moved along. I my self am playing Paul Sheldon in Misery and some dude named Clarence in Richard III, the point is I need to be flexible working around the Gaslight Theatre’s season schedule.

Maybe it is spring; for certain I still have the burning passion for Battlestar Galactica so we are pressing on. RJ and I are slowly getting back on the same page. Recent hurdles are one of my main actors is moving 1,500 miles away, I could get tapped any day now for a tour of the ‘Stans or Iraq. It appears one of my most vexing costumes issues are finally going to be resolved by the end of the month so we can shoot nice big chunks in April.

Like every one here I’m aware the 30th anniversary is coming in September we hope to have something special for you all on the 17th. Perhaps like Bryan though you should keep expectations low so as not be disappointed


John -

Not to get argumentative with you but, I've brought this project up once or twice in the past year. The first time, you responded with a comment where you said that what I'd posted had re-inspired you to get back to work on the project. The next time I mentioned the project, you said that school was getting in the way and you would be back on top of things when you were finished with your finals. Now, you say that costuming is the issue and that it's expensive and that you've had no luck trying to get folks to loan you what they need. Now, as far as loaning costuming goes, finding costumes to loan nearly 30 years after the heyday of the original series might be like finding a needle in a haystack. Instead of trying to find costumes, or struggling to find money to make them, how about attempting to rally the fans to raise the money that you need? You'd need to have an exact figure for a goal and all, but it seems really simple solution to me. The one thing is, if you take other people's money to get this finished and you don't, you're going to be pretty unpopular. I'm not saying you won't finish it, because I really hope that you do.

I apologize if you're offended because I'm coming off a bit cynical, but I didn't put out a trailer that looked like something terrific with proposed release date on it. If you advertise a release date and then it comes and goes, what do you expect people to think? When you talk about the possibility of being sent overseas and costuming issues that haven't been resolved, I don't know how you could possibly have something completed 5 months from now, unless you're farther along than what you've been making it sound.

One way to keep people interested is to at least give an update on the project every couple of months. At least we would know that it's still in the works, not put aside completely. As KJ pointed out, BSG fandom has had more than it's share of disappointments as a history. It's hard not to be a bit cynical from where I sit.

I really hope you finish it, I really do.

Bryan

[Lord Kingjason]

Gotta agree with Gemini on that point 100%!

Two letdowns by the studio in the past are bad enough, but stating a project but not following through on it is even more painful to hear of! But a Galactica one at this point would indeed be a terrible blow to us all as supporters cos it'll be yet another unfinished venture announced by not ever realised.

Like i stated before though, ask around a ComicCon if you needed to. Asks the banks for a loan, a realistic one though.

Instead of trying to find costumes, or struggling to find money to make them, how about attempting to rally the fans to raise the money that you need? You'd need to have an exact figure for a goal and all, but it seems really simple solution to me. The one thing is, if you take other people's money to get this finished and you don't, you're going to be pretty unpopular.

Agreed, best avoid becoming hated dude. E-mail other fan filmmakers on various sites and ask how they all funded their film projects. Especially the more well known ones (Sandy Collora). And get those all important tips pronto.

Go here and ask the guy behind Captain Harlock... he has a ton of good project i'm sure fans ask him, how he'd do his work etc.

http://www.miguelmesas.com/international/news.htm

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PyUvwcXywtQ

I wish you well as always dude.

Jason

KJ

[BST]

Personally, I give credit to anyone willing to take the initiative to produce a Galactica based story (written or video), completely free to others, for our pleasure. My life does not rise and fall, based on the eventual release date of said story. Once it is released, I will be able to sit back and enjoy it. Mind you I won't have to leave my house, drive to a theater, buy their over-priced refreshments, and tolerate the sometimes rude movie patrons. No, I will be able to sit in relative peace and quiet, in my own home...partake of my own popcorn or other refreshment and enjoy the show.

I could understand a person's discontent if that person had a stake in the production; however, when the only stake is that of being part of the audience, I don't accord it as much importance.

Anyone of us can be critics and I'm sorry if what I've written sounds callous but, as you may have noticed, I give a very wide swath to those willing to take a chance and do something.

Best Wishes for success, Jon!

:)

[Sept17th]

Apologies for the tone in the message above but it was an answer to questions raised that day. It was honest in how I felt at the time, like all of you know not every day is sunshine with roses.

How about something positive! We had a crew/cast meeting tonight at our local coffee house, it was more pleasant than productive perhaps but it got us primed to get going. Tom who is playing Adama will have us all over his house April 19th to party and reignite the machine. We’ll be passing out the early weeks of the shooting schedule, different crew teams will discuss updates.

We still have some recasting to tackle but nothing that prevents us from moving forward.

Thanks again for your patience, interest, frank questions and suggestions...THANKS ALL OF YOU!

[Sept17th]

http://battlestarfanfilm.org/smf/index.php?topic=458.msg2787#msg2787

Did you guys see these?

http://battlestarfanfilm.org/smf/index.php?topic=288.msg2725#msg2725

[Reaper]

looking good man!! very nice!!!!!

outstanding work so far!!!

[David Kerin]

That simulator is sweet. Man how the kid in me would love to jump in there and fly around (simulation-wise at least). That could make for some nice quick cutins for combat action. Very cool.

[Sept17th]

That could make for some nice quick cutins for combat action. Very cool.

If we use it that is the plan.

I just had some big recent road blocks thrown my way, learning fully why one of our cast members became radioactive. Events have caused me to leave my local community theatre which while a great resource could also at times be a big distraction. The funny thing is I haven’t been as excited and pumped up for this film as I am right now for long time. I’m focused and determined to hit this one of out of the park, things may take longer than we planned but the end result will be so worth it.

[Sept17th]

The Cast 'N Crew Kick-Off Party was a good time had by all and real work also got done. Seeing Tom in his Adama uniform for the first time left me speechless for a moment!

Pics coming soon.

[Taranis]

good to hear ..

[ernie90125]

Great to read, pleased you're continueing to enjoy it all..... Looking forward to the pix.

Did you say a while ago that filming had begun on some scenes, if so can you give an insight into what has been filmed so farand how its gone ?

[Sept17th]

We shot some close ups for a scene with Jason Maly/Orin with Tom/Adama delivering lines off screen. Frankly I'm unsure how much of that will be used.

[Sept17th]

New pics up. :D

http://battlestarfanfilm.org/smf/index.php?topic=349.msg2815#msg2815

[Taranis]

this is great :) you can have all the models and effects worked out . but without the players is just a visual exercise.
the cast gives it the needed dimension.

[Lord Kingjason]

Septh17

Check your PM's.

Finally got see my friend today, so i've got something important to tell you!

:salute:

KJ

[Sept17th]

KJ thanks for the PM. :thumbsup:

Update from the Act II Scene One shoot.

http://battlestarfanfilm.org/smf/index.php?topic=361.msg2830#msg2830

[Reaper]

Looking good man! very nice! I did notice the female Warrior doesn't have a Galactica Patch on her jacket, and Adama is missing his belt and the Silver Rank pinks (or whatever they are) actually both Blue Uniformed characters are missing these.

But, other then that, VERY NICE!!!

I can't wait to see the final product!

[Sept17th]

During these two weeks of tech rehearsal we still have some costume details to finish up. As for the squadron patch, well let’s just say our heroes are not going to be Blue Squadron. I want to give another squadron a work out. Stay tuned.

[Reaper]

oh, you can count on me staying tuned!!1 and I figured you know about the costume details, :)

Like I said, outstanding work!!!

[Lord Kingjason]

During these two weeks of tech rehearsal we still have some costume details to finish up. As for the squadron patch, well let’s just say our heroes are not going to be Blue Squadron. I want to give another squadron a work out. Stay tuned.

A while ago i started a thread about Viper Squadron names, stuff i was thinking up for stories had i done them, also it was a discussion asking what other names could Viper squadrons have besides being named after basic 'colours' of the spectrum etc.

http://www.colonialfleets.com/forums/showthread.php?t=15720

Just in case you need ideas for a "Non-blue squadron" Viper group that you wanted a base a patch on!

;) :cool:


KJ