Makin' Moobies

Over at our house, we've been making a movie.

No, really.

It's hard work. Plus when you're finished, you have to fill all the holes.

The film, called "Strong Love," is scary and romantic. The black & white photos are stills from the film, which stars Jeff Elam and Karen Zumsteg (both pictured) and is directed by my husband, John Sandel.

This week, we shot at Mountain View Cemetery and Mausoleum in Altadena. I love this place. Really. I know it's a cemetery, but wow.

If you've got to die, you want folks to put you here.

This door is my favorite thing in the Mausoleum. And upstairs, there's a rooftop crypt I like.

We also shot out on the grounds. Left to right: Elvis Metcalf, Assistant Director; Marilyn Morris, Sound Designer; John Sandel, Director; Wael Shukha, Director of Photography (here with his Steadicam rig); Glen Silva, Assistant Camera (his site's not finished but you gotta love his url), and Rosemary Stevens, who is, as we say in the business, "talent."

   

Our crew consisted of seasoned pros as well as newbies, all of whom were amazing to work with, a supportive and professional group. Also thanks to Andrew Boyle, Eric Michael Kochmer, Greg Bell, Whit Spurgeon, and Chris Frederick. You guys made it a wonderful day. More pictures on Facebook.

Promo

Last night, John, cast and crew shot a promo at our house for the We Make Movies Kickstarter effort.

When John and I had been married only a few months, we shot a short film at the house we were renting in Altadena. We swore we would never shoot in our own home again.

So anyway, last night's shoot gave make-up artist Kelsey Boutte a chance to try out ways to make actor Karen Zumsteg look dead. Our bathroom became the make-up trailer, which worked out fine except I had to go to the neighbors' to pee.

You'll have to see the movie to find out if, in full make-up and lighting, Karen really looks dead or not. When the promo's ready, I'll provide the link and you can see John, acting, in our own home. One day, when we have the big budgets, maybe we'll shoot at your house!