Shooting a film is like building a spider web. It seems so simple: just spin out a single strand, and the next thing you know, there’s this really cool thing in front of you that you just can’t help but watch. But really, there’s a whole design behind it and some planning. Where are you going to put it? Do you hide it in the corner or put it out in the open where it’s more likely to have something run into it? Do you take the risk that it will all come down at once, or hope to catch a big one? Plus you have to rebuild it any time something crashes into it, hoping it’s going to be just as pristine and beautiful as before. In short: it takes some management.
So lately, in addition to starting our fundraising campaign, casting, and getting all of our paperwork in order, I’ve done some research as well. This particular research trip involved visiting Los Angeles; the Skirball Community Center. They have an exhibit up about Houdini, so I couldn’t resist. It was really worth the trip. They had a 1920s day, encouraging people to dress up and come down to have a picnic and see the exhibit, so we did.
Honestly, the exhibit is pretty cool. But don’t take my word for it. There are some reviews out there that say the same thing. Unfortunately, they don’t allow photos in the exhibit, but there was a wealth of paraphernalia about magic: posters, costumes, props, automatons, and so on. Totally worth the trip.
So lately, in addition to starting our fundraising campaign, casting, and getting all of our paperwork in order, I’ve done some research as well. This particular research trip involved visiting Los Angeles; the Skirball Community Center. They have an exhibit up about Houdini, so I couldn’t resist. It was really worth the trip. They had a 1920s day, encouraging people to dress up and come down to have a picnic and see the exhibit, so we did.
Honestly, the exhibit is pretty cool. But don’t take my word for it. There are some reviews out there that say the same thing. Unfortunately, they don’t allow photos in the exhibit, but there was a wealth of paraphernalia about magic: posters, costumes, props, automatons, and so on. Totally worth the trip.
We followed that up with drinks at Hotel Figueroa, which is also a place I’d recommend. Beautiful, downtown, and historic. Once you add a cocktail, it’s a perfect summer afternoon.
Lastly, we headed down to a theater with a really long name that starts with a V for some experimental short films presented by Film Forum. The theater was also dating from back in the day, which is cool. It could use some love on the inside, but alas, funding for such projects is scarce and competition is fierce (kind of like film funding!).
Anyway, that’s the lesson for the day. Research can be fun, kids.
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