(Personal Blog) Ever wondered what it is like working on a zombie film? Well, although I have never been as big of a fan as some people of the zombie genre, I have to say, it is pretty darned awesome. I worked a full 15 hour day on the short film "End of the Living." I didn't get to shoot on Day 2 because my later-in-the-day scenes were postponed because of some delays in the morning shoot. We will be shooting my other outdoor scenes later in September.
I play Laura, the girlfriend of the leading man, who also plays his own twin brother in the film. This is my first victim role of sorts. I have played the other end of the spectrum several times (serial killer). It has been fun to get that divine inspiration of fear. I swear in one scene I did, my fear came out of nowhere and just as soon dissipated, but in the meantime, I scared the heck out of the crew. My deep scream came from the belly of the beast and a frantic energy came from the heavens. It was beautiful. It was one of those moments when you just knew it was right and it was good and the looks on their faces seemed to confirm it long before I realized it.
Some of the actors I have worked with on this piece are brand new to acting and they really stepped up to take on the challenge. I was pleasantly surprised and pleased to be working with them. They have bright futures ahead if they so choose to do so.
Besides the inevitable camaraderie that always happens when working with my Forgotten Films buddies Tommy, D.S. and David, the best part was seeing the incredible work done by Strega Moon Productions. They gave 110 percent. It was amazing. I felt as if I was witnessing something so advanced. It was beyond anything I ever expected them to accomplish. It was magical. And it was gross, which was the intention. Flo was amazing as the zombie. I am glad she got that role and not me. One scene was so gross, I gagged just watching. Ha-ha.
Unlike the last film Tommy and I did together, in this one, we not only had a much larger cast and production budget, but also employed more sets, locations and camera angles, playing with lighting, mirrors and other techniques for desired effects.
I am the type of person that not only acts, but also dives into production, especially with these guys. Whether it's fetching the C-47s, carrying (barely) an apple box, reccommending lighting and gels or studying the set for inconsistency (like a clock set to the wrong time), I am always on the lookout. I also like to take pictures. D.S. tried to hold my camera for ransom. It was a joke. :) My camera rocks.
I also look at marketing, obviously, and to that end, I started videoing and hope to continue doing so and implementing more serious interviews, which will be part of the overall package later.
This film not only has excellent makeup, but also funny dialogue with suspense, drama, great acting and utilizes many South Florida locations. I hope we will have several South Florida showings and get a great audience. I will let you know more as we continue with production.