Just in time for the holidays

We have been working on two films for the University of Connecticut School of Nursing. While in production, I was in daily contact with the teaching staff and with the nurses there.

I am awed by their commitment. It is inspiring. Touching. To watch these nurses, men and women, go about their business. The business of caring.

The primary motivation in their life is care. Of older people, of premies, of pregnant women, of sick children, of the handicapped. Looking after the emotions as well as the physical well being of their patients, by giving 100%. A beautiful thing. A breath of fresh air. We at Tribe are proud to be given the opportunity to showcase their contribution. Our small bit in this holiday season.

"A Modern Affair" film of the week on Fancast.com!

We at Tribe are thrilled that A Modern Affair has been chosen as film of the week by Fancast.com. Andy Hunsacker, who picks the films, likes to alternate between big Hollywood blockbusters and more thoughtful independent films. He asks some interesting questions to Vern in the interview which is published on the site (see link below). And gets some interesting answers! Vern recalls how he came up with the idea for the story, which relates to his personal experience at the time. He tells of the casting: as the main male part had been written with Stanley Tucci in mind, it was a thrill when the actor got cast in that role. Included are some production crisis stories, which are always fun to talk about ... long after they happen!

http://www.fancast.com/blogs/the-movies/movie-of-the-week-a-modern-affair/

Watch the clip here!

Vern at IQ annual conference in Maui

Vern has been attending the annual IQ conference. IQ stands for International Quorum of Motion Picture Producers. Pffew. It's as smart as it sounds: the only global organization dedicated to film production company owners. It's particularly exciting for Vern to participate this year as he's IQ's new President Elect. In 2007, Tribe Pictures hosted the IQ conference, welcoming over 50 friends and colleagues in New Jersey. The event was a success, getting a lot of attention from media and professionals. This year the conference is taking place in Maui, because its location is equally accessible from all world regions. Anyway that's their excuse!

Says Vern: "Just back from the IQ conference. The theme this year was R.E.A.L. Relax, enjoy, and learn. We chose the best location for it: Maui. Well, there was a lot of learning, a lot of enjoying and not that much relaxing! While it takes planning to fit into my schedule, attending the IQ conference is always stimulating and informative.

This year we've had a couple of events centered on new technology. IQ is a great forum to keep up with the latest advances in technology within a group of like-minded individuals. A video conference put us in direct contact with the head of technology for Red Camera. We discussed its impressive qualities and capacity, and were able to shoot film tests. Hard to tell the difference between these and tests shot with a 35mm film camera! 3D is another technology going through some fast changes.

We were given a demonstration of the latest 3D technology by a top technical specialist. 3D has taken giant steps recently in terms of quality and market presence. 3D screenings are becoming commonplace in local theaters. While this format has been used a lot for animation in theaters, we're seeing a move towards 3D live action. And 3D is expected to expand into new distribution platforms, including TV. Get ready to keep a pair of glasses by your TV set. Or by your iPhone!

The IQ conference always offers panel discussions. This year we looked at various strategies in surviving the crisis. Members presented their solutions, whether it's moving beyond core markets or redefining their activities. Besides the conferences and panels IQ is a great occasion for members to network, exchange experiences and learn about each other. I met Tope, a producer from Nigeria. I knew that Nigeria is a big country: over 100 million people in one of the largest countries on earth. Tope informed me that not only is it large with a big oil economy, it's in dire need of TV material, as each of its 36 states has two TV channels. A booming Nolliwood has emerged to create content for TV and for theatrical release. I was happy to reconnect with Brazilian producer Marcio deLemos. He's working on Imperfect Love, a romantic comedy set in Sao Paolo, which is half way through shooting. I happen to be one of the investors. Along with the city of Sao Paolo. Marcio, as a producer, is associated with Paraty, the feature film we are developing at Tribe. I enjoyed exchanging impressions and ideas with Josh Miller who produces comedy. His documentary about male belly dancer is funny and quirky. We talked about the advantages of shooting in the prairies of Edmonton where his studio is based. And with an Estonian producer about the ins and outs of shooting in Estonia. After having been around the world, at least that's how it felt, I was glad to come back to New Jersey, my family, my company. With a head full of new ideas, whether relating to new technology, or new alliances, or film opportunities. Enriched!"