Mark Johnson - "CHOW BABY"

[Mark Johnson]

Big snake. Hot chick. Mayhem. Nuff said.

Update: 9/5/06 - New BTS footage posted at end of thread.

UPDATE 9/3/06 - Behind the Scenes on the Set of Chow Baby posted at end of thread.

Update 8/30/06 - First day of lead actress auditions. Photos posted at end of thread.

UPDATE: 8/27/06 - I'm pleased top announce that composer Guthrie Lowe is now attached to the project and will score Chow Baby. A member of BMI, Mr. Lowe has 19 years experience as a touring professional and recording artist. He is now making a name for himself as one of the hot new orchestral score composers for film and television in Northern California. You can hear samples of his work in areas of Drama/Romance, Action/Adventure, Horror, Classical and TV Themes on his site: www.guthrielowe.com (http://www.guthrielowe.com).

8/27/06 - I'm auditioning actresses this week for the lead role of Angela. (My ex-girlfriend has her hands full with her final year of law school and she simply doesn't have time to devote to the film). Fortunately, the project has attained a small amount of buzz and we have some very exceptional actresses vying for the role.

http://www.pulp-friction.com/chowbabyposter02.jpg

[Kholi]

LOL.

Subscribing now.

Make that banner bigger, sir.

How o' How are you going to make this good?

[Mark Johnson]

Here's some WIP frames for the CG snake I'm building in MODO.

[Kholi]

OMG. That is AWESOME.

Great stuff, man. I won't curse you before you're even done. But, sheesh.

Okay.

[MOVIE STUNTS]

Is this like Snakes on a Plane?

[Mark Johnson]

I aspire to make B-movies of the kind that warped my impressionable brain as a young lad. Kholi, you rock. I am humbled by the talent and experience on this board. If my li'l ol' snake can bring a smile to you veterans I will be more than happy.

Mark

[Mark Johnson]

Although I became a fan of S.O.A.P. early on, from what I can see it's major flaw may be an absence of hotties menaced by the serpents. Perhaps the sequel will be Snakes In a Strip Club. :)

[MOVIE STUNTS]

It's cool in my book. I only wish I could do CG!

[Kholi]

Same here, Movie Stunts.

If I could, I'd definitely be entering my first Horror_Fest idea.

And, I'm not a veteran by any means.

Good luck!

[MOVIE STUNTS]

Although I became a fan of S.O.A.P. early on, from what I can see it's major flaw may be an absence of hotties menaced by the serpents. Perhaps the sequel will be Snakes In a Strip Club. :)
Lol...

[Mark Johnson]

I admit up front that my script is not Shakespeare quality. In fact, there's very little dialogue in the whole damn thing. However, I'm hoping my visuals will overcome a paucity of verbiage. My victim, er, lead actress is easy on the eyes at least. This is Jennifer Marie, my ex-girlfriend who still likes (or pities) me enough to be my leading lady.

[MOVIE STUNTS]

How long have you been doing CG?

[Mark Johnson]

I've been working in CG since 1993 in the forensics field. My company web site is www.forensicarts.com (http://www.forensicarts.com). Most of the stuff I do personally involves aviation and railroad disasters.

[MOVIE STUNTS]

Wow... That's awesome. I couldn't see any of the animations though.

[Mark Johnson]

Yeah, we're revising the site and re-tooling the animation samples. I need to get the whip out and stripe those web monkeys so they get the links working again! Thanks for the kind words.

Here's a production still with the incomplete CG snake in a test animation on top of CG pipe network above actress. Location is a parking garage I have access to with enough head-room to mount camera on boom attached to roof of my Hyundai. Actress walks ahead of car while camera is suspended above her looking down. CG pipes and snake added to make it look like snake is stalking her with camera viewpoint above snake.

http://www.pulp-friction.com/productionstill01.jpg

[MOVIE STUNTS]

That's it, I give up!

[MOVIE STUNTS]

How close are you to finishing?

[Mark Johnson]

I have an 11-year old who loves RC vehicles so I liberated one to use for my "snake cam." The clearance underneath cars in the parking lot was too low for the DVX and it would have been too heavy for the purpose anyway. Thus, I taped a little panasonic 3CCD mini-DV camcorder to the sucker. Control is a bit seat-of-my-pants as the RC racer really accelerates and turns quickly. However, the footage looks pretty cool and the vibration sort of adds to the effect of being at snake belly level.

http://www.pulp-friction.com/snakecam.jpg

[Mark Johnson]

I'm quite a ways from finishing. As many of you are very aware, compositing and animating anything is a bitch and this really is a tight schedule. However, I've got a good deal of the background plates in the can and I've storyboarded this so that I can at least have something finished by October 1 in some form. If I make particularly good progress I'll be able to move-match some of the footage in motion and add the snake. If things get tight I'll have to do cuts to the snake against static plate backgrounds. I just hope a 747 doesn't go down or some other disaster that would cause me to lose my free evenings and weekends due to real life work.

[MOVIE STUNTS]

Is that one of those jumping RC cars?

[Mark Johnson]

This stupid RC car is made so that it can flip over and keep running. Not particularly optimum for a camera dolly!!! I tried a RadioShack truck and it worked good but was two inches taller and you'd be amazed at how much junk hangs down underneath cars. In the future I think I'd look for a four-wheel RC that has four soft tires for stability and which I could modify with bumpers or something to protect the camera (this one did a face-plant into a wall once already)

[MOVIE STUNTS]

Yikes... That could make for some good footage though.:)

[jpbankesmercer]

Awesome, I love it!!

[Mark Johnson]

This is a simple test of the snake's animated motion. The snake will follow a spline path drawn anywhere in the frame. I should note that the texture map applied to the snake is a proxy for convenience. The final model will have a UV-mapped texture with a bump map to bring out relief from the scales and other surface features.

http://www.pulp-friction.com/SnakeMotionTest.avi

[Kholi]

Hey vis guy--

You should move all of your production stills and the video link to the first page of your Horror-fest thread. You can just edit your post there.

That way everyone can see the coolness

[Mark Johnson]

Was thinking about that but wasn't sure how to move stuff. Then remembered I could just edit the first post. THANKS.

Mark

EDIT 8/3 - Another user sent me a private message suggesting that most people prefer having new content added to the thread in chronological order rather than posting new content at the top of the thread and that those subscribing to a thread might miss new stuff otherwise.

[griffin]

Although I became a fan of S.O.A.P. early on, from what I can see it's major flaw may be an absence of hotties menaced by the serpents. Perhaps the sequel will be Snakes In a Strip Club. :)

They already do have snakes in strip clubs... trouser snakes.

[Jack Daniel Stanley]

looks great and like a lot of fun. :thumbsup:

are you gunna do a 24p conversion on the snake cam?
What conversion software do you like?

[Mark Johnson]

Jack,

I think DVFilmaker is pretty sweet for converting to 24P when you have footage that you want to maintain the same time duration. For this clip, though, I'm probably going to just deinterlace the frames in AfterEffects so I can mess with some motion filters to get something "snakey" looking. I'll then save out the footage at 24fps (which will slightly slow the timing of the clip) and bring it into the NLE. I don't mind (and, in fact, prefer the slowdown for the snake view) so I'm not going to do a true conversion.

Thanks for your note. Man, I think your REKINDLED project (and the graphics) is the bomb.

[conrad_johnson]

This is a great Idea. I love sillyness. :)

[g0ldenb0y55]

CG snake looks tight bro! Can't wait to see the whole thing!

[Mark Johnson]

Hey, I bow to you, gOldenbOy. I pissed my pants when I saw your poster for Dark Identity. That chick is creepy. I cannot wait to see your finished production.

[Slimothy]

Looking good man. Those stills are awesome. Tim.

[MOVIE STUNTS]

I just had to stop by again, and tell you I think that snake looks wicked.:thumbsup:

[Mark Johnson]

Compositing of CG snake into footage:

http://www.pulp-friction.com/CompositeCompare01.jpg

[Mark Johnson]

Some grabs from DVX footage:

http://www.pulp-friction.com/grabs.jpg

[Mark Johnson]

http://www.pulp-friction.com/boomshot.jpg

[g0ldenb0y55]

Hey, I bow to you, gOldenbOy. I pissed my pants when I saw your poster for Dark Identity. That chick is creepy. I cannot wait to see your finished production.

Thanks bro! Glad you liked it! Your snake compsites are awesome!

[Mark Johnson]

A few days ago Jack had this comment:


are you gunna do a 24p conversion on the snake cam? What conversion software do you like?

I forgot that there's a pretty good article and discussion thread on the subject here: http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/showthread.php?t=32141

[Mark Johnson]

Although off-topic, I wanted to plug this thread that some of you may not have seen:

http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/showthread.php?t=65070

I've changed my homepage and will feel a little better knowing that I'm actually helping someone when I do my google searches now.

[g0ldenb0y55]

Although off-topic, I wanted to plug this thread that some of you may not have seen:

http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/showthread.php?t=65070

I've changed my homepage and will feel a little better knowing that I'm actually helping someone when I do my google searches now.

ISARA is a great cause! PK is doing a great job with it!

[Mark Johnson]

New Composite - CG Snake Dropping from Pipes
http://pulp-friction.com/CompositeCompare02.jpg

[SLIDEentertainment]

That CGI snake is awesome! Girl is HOT, GREAT work!
Looking forward to the Film!
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j87/slatons2/SLIMSbanner.jpg
SLIDEentertainment

[SLIDEentertainment]

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j87/slatons2/SLIMSbanner.jpg

Mark

thanks for the message...msg me your email and I'll drop you our 06/07 production slate and some scripts you can let me know if you're interested in anything coming up.

Thanks

TREY

[Mark Johnson]

Way Cool Trey! I'm sending you my e-mail right now!

[SLIDEentertainment]

SENT
:kali:
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j87/slatons2/SLIMSbanner.jpg

[RDragonFilms]

OMG. That's some super amazing work you've got there. BEST of luck!

[Mark Johnson]

http://www.pulp-friction.com/cyberfxscan.jpg

[Matt Sconce]

That is absolutely mindblowing! Awesome Stuff!!!

[Jack Daniel Stanley]

Amazing man,
Looking foreward to it even more :thumbsup:

[Mark Johnson]

Was really quite easy converting the point cloud of Jenn's legs into a mesh.
I used photos of her real legs to create a texture map:

http://pulp-friction.com/CGlegs01.jpg

I added a real rough "bone" system to do a test animation of the legs (below).
I need to do some work on the back of the knee and calf so that it deforms better when the leg is bent.
The high heels were found on www.renderosity.com (http://www.renderosity.com) as 3D shoes for Poser models. They look surprisingly
close to the shoes Jennifer wore during the shoot.

http://pulp-friction.com/CGlegs02.jpg

[Mark Johnson]

Closer view of CG leg model

http://pulp-friction.com/CGlegClose.jpg

[Kholi]

Geez, Vislaw--

GREAT updates you got in nearly every post. I especially like the full-body scan pictures. :cough: because it shows how far we've advanced techno.. logica..ly.

Yeah.

[SLIDEentertainment]

MARK
F'n SWEET! thats awesome!! Did you get my email? just wanted to make sure it came through

Thanks

T.

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j87/slatons2/SLIMSbanner.jpg

[Mark Johnson]

Trey,

I dunno what the deal is but I have no e-mail from you and I've checked spam filter etc. etc. Did you try vislaw@yahoo.com? Double check your address and try once more! I'm anxious to get it!!!!!

[SLIDEentertainment]

Sent again!...Hopefully it works!! lemme know

T.

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j87/slatons2/SLIMSbanner.jpg

[Mark Johnson]

Got it, Trey! Thanks muchos.

[Mark Johnson]

New Poster uploaded at beginning of thread ....

[Jack Daniel Stanley]

wow, very pro just like everything else, could totally see that cover on the shelf at blockbuster.

[Slimothy]

Dude. This thread rocks man.

[Ben Sliker]

i agree, this thread is intense.

[Mark Johnson]

I'm testing ElectricImage for snake renders because EI is "the fastest renderer on earth" (according to their company press anyway) and time is going to be the biggest obstacle. I'm using a NorthernLights 3D plug-in (Contortionist) that makes any mesh object move along an editable spline. Here's a QuickTime test of the snake body in motion:

http://www.pulp-friction.com/MotionThumb.jpg (http://www.pulp-friction.com/snakemotiontestaug08.mov)

[DJ Lewis]

The link needed to be edited a little...
http://www.pulp-friction.com/snakemotiontestaug08.mov

Amazing man! This is one of the films I can't wait to see...

[Mark Johnson]

Hey thanks. I should have tested that link before posting it. Thanks for catching that ... and thanks for the kind words!

[Jack Daniel Stanley]

I'm testing ElectricImage for snake renders because EI is "the fastest renderer on earth" (according to their company press anyway) and time is going to be the biggest obstacle. I'm using a NorthernLights 3D plug-in (Contortionist) that makes any mesh object move along an editable spline. Here's a QuickTime test of the snake body in motion:

http://www.pulp-friction.com/MotionThumb.jpg (http://www.pulp-friction.com/snakemotiontestaug08.mov)

WHOAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!
http://goldismoney.info/forums/images/smilies/eek.gif
FRIGGIN AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!

What the hell are you doing here? LOL :)

Did you get your DVX to make your own movies cuz you wanna move into more creative stuff from the forensic gig? If that's the case, it's not gonna be a a long transition I don't think.

[Brandon Rice]

wow... that snake animation rocks...

[Mark Johnson]

Did you get your DVX to make your own movies cuz you wanna move into more creative stuff from the forensic gig?


Indeed. I've sucked out most of the creative juice available from crashing planes and trains. I also have acquired an HVX but have been shooting with the DVX out of familiarity and also because I haven't quite figured out the best workflow and need to upgrade my editing package. Just got Barry's book, though, so I expect to re-shoot with the HVX after I get the CGI squared away enough.



wow... that snake animation rocks...


Thanks Brandon! I've got a forensic project in progress involving a Dodge Viper that overturned in Santa Clarita. The next time I'm down there on site could I buy you a beer?

[Brandon Rice]

Thanks Brandon! I've got a forensic project in progress involving a Dodge Viper that overturned in Santa Clarita. The next time I'm down there on site could I buy you a beer?

Yeah, maybe we could chat for a bit... I work up in the Antelope Valley (Lancaster)... but give me a yell when you''re in SCV.

[Kholi]

Did the snake test disappear before I could see it! Nooooooooo!

[Jack Daniel Stanley]

the B&W wire frame pic is a link homie

[Kholi]

: puts the Xacto down : I knew that...

[Mark Johnson]

This is all CG and is a test for the scene where Jenn drops her cell phone. (Right Click on the image below to download a small QuickTime movie file). I'm going to work on some alternative camera angles and also add motion blur to bump up the realism when I composite the actual scene:


http://www.pulp-friction.com/cgCellPhoneThumb.jpg (http://www.pulp-friction.com/CGcellPhoneDrop.mov)

[Brandon Rice]

Whoa! THat's pretty stinkin' nice!

[Mark Johnson]

To build tension the snake stalks its pretty victim by following her overhead on a network of pipes. The plate below shows how I added CG pipes among the real pipes. I originally was going to mask out the real pipes and have the snake appear to be on them. However, the masking was a friggin' nightmare and it was much easier to just stick some CG pipes in the scene:

http://www.pulp-friction.com/PipeComposite.jpg

Below is a test of the CG snake on the CG pipes. Right Click the image to download a small QuickTime file. Needs some lighting/shadow work:

http://www.pulp-friction.com/CompositeThumb.jpg (http://www.pulp-friction.com/SnakePipesGreen.mov)

[Brandon Rice]

the movement on that snake looks really nice... organic.

[g0ldenb0y55]

This is all CG and is a test for the scene where Jenn drops her cell phone. (Right Click on the image below to download a small QuickTime movie file). I'm going to work on some alternative camera angles and also add motion blur to bump up the realism when I composite the actual scene:


http://www.pulp-friction.com/cgCellPhoneThumb.jpg (http://www.pulp-friction.com/CGcellPhoneDrop.mov)

Vislaw - you are my hero! That cellphone looks awesome!

[Jack Daniel Stanley]

I agree, but hero fest is over ... you should say something like
"that cell phone is so real its scary" or "your talent is frightening" :grin:
Seriously -- this work is awesome :thumbsup:

[Isaac_Brody]

Wow Vislaw. Only just saw this thread. You've got skills. :)

[Mark Johnson]

Thanks Isaac!!! I'm totally blown away by the talent here and I'm delighted that people are enthusiastic about the effects stuff I do.

[R.L. Scott]

awesome cg bro, bravo.

[GaryinCalifornia]

Mark, maybe I missed it or just to lazy to go back and read the whole thread... but what programs are you using...

Can't wait to see the finished clip... or short... that is if you make it a wmv.... think I got that right file... been stuck in California on my sisters old pc...

[Mark Johnson]

Gary,

I'm using Studio Max and ElectricImage for my 3D animation. For move-matching footage I'll either use Boujou or SynthEyes. For compositing I'm using AfterEffects.

[GaryinCalifornia]

Gary,

I'm using Studio Max and ElectricImage for my 3D animation. For move-matching footage I'll either use Boujou or SynthEyes. For compositing I'm using AfterEffects.

Thanks...

[conrad_johnson]

I can't wait to see this, I have a feeling it's gonna be good. :)

[VersuS]

Really, this 3D stuff is awesome and just goes into a totally different dimension from what everybody else is doing! And I know that it takes A LOT of hard work and dedication to master all these tools! So, good luck and thanx for sharing!

[Mark Johnson]

One of the things that is so appealling to me about this project is the fact that it requires some serious corner-cutting and efficient use of time (not to mention tricks of the trade). If I had a serious bankroll and a stable of animators it would be no challenge to do some great 3D FX. However, this is your basic no-budget one-man project and I don't have the luxury of time or assistant animators. I love it. It's sort of akin to the whole indie spirit that so many people here are infected with. You gotta figure out how to tell your story without all the tools, time or help that the big boys play with. Sometimes, the integrity of the story with the talent and resourcefulness of the artist allows gold to really be spun from straw. When I saw Jack's "SHED" I stopped and had to sit down. There is more talent and soul in that little short than most of the crap that plays at my local multiplex. God bless talent and vision. There's a lot of both to be found here in this community and as far as I can see, the angel to a-hole index around here is very high indeed.

[VersuS]

Right on!

[BLUESPIDER]

Mark, I got to stop by and give you some props! I just noticed this thread and I also noticed that your from San Jose too. If I would of known I could of dropped by and give you an extra hand. Good stuff and can't wait to see it!

We should collaborate one day.

[Mark Johnson]

Hey BlueSpider! Thanks for stopping by. Did you ever get a Northern Cali DVX/HVX group mobilized? I would love to hang with you any time, man. You come up with a project and you can count me and my equipment in on it.

[Steve_Arm]

Vislaw from my understanding render times are big, what's your take on this?
What is your workflow plan? Working with proxie renders and throwing the final render some days before the deadline?

[Mark Johnson]

You are correct, Steve, that render time is usually the major bottleneck in serious 3D effects work. I was reading an interview with John Knoll concerning CARS and he said that a couple scenes had render times in the neighborhood of several days even on their high-power workstations. At 24 frames per second that is a bitch. The reality, though, is that there are a lot of work-arounds and ways to deal with the problem. I've got a small render farm of five machines and that helps, of course.

The biggest advantage comes from figuring out how to do the snake renders in ElectricImage. I'm able to get decent looking frames with render times down around 20 or 30 seconds that would be several minutes in Max. A lot of people in the FX community look down their nose at EI because they don't understand how to work it into their pipeline properly. In fact, speaking of John Knoll, I just noticed this quote of his that is on the EI web site: "Electric Image is my secret weapon. ... I regularly handle scenes with several million polygons and the new OpenGL performance improvements are really welcome." http://eitechnologygroup.com/

Finally, you are correct that it helps to do all of the setup as wire-frame or non-shadow/non-blur previews. I'm always impatient, though, and find myself sending files for final render simply because I just like to have that full-rendered frame to look at. On a 6-minute short I can stand the inefficiency. If this were a longer prodution it would be necessary to do all of the setup first and then send the final renders as batch files.

Thanks for the post and the interest in the project!

If you find the FX side of things interesting you might like to look at the WIP thread for Brandon's "Smuggler's Ransom" where I'm adding a helicopter and changing a daylight scene to night: http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/showthread.php?t=64854&page=16

[Steve_Arm]

Thanks for the answer, I should check on Electric Image software. Your render-farm is a key factor in your project.

[Mark Johnson]

Hey Steve,

I plan to get to Cyprus and Greece next year. Maybe I can buy you a couple glasses of Ouzo when I'm there!

[VersuS]

Greece? Hey I just saw Steve lives in Greece! Hey Mark, when you're down here, count me in on the little alcoholic exhibition you're planning!

[R.L. Scott]

your an amazing CG artist Vis, I would love to work with you on the live action Dragonball Z short I'm in development on now if your interested. ( I'm sure I could make it worth your while my friend )

[Steve_Arm]

Heh, Mark if it is your first time here you will be amazed. Thanks for the offer. Just start saving because things are expensive here!! :)

Greetings Versus-Gianni.

[VersuS]

Heh, Mark if it is your first time here you will be amazed. Thanks for the offer. Just start saving because things are expensive here!

how true!!

[Mark Johnson]

Thanks R.L.! I sent you a PM regarding your project.

Steve and VersuS: When I was in high school we hosted a Greek Cypriot exchange student for a year who has become part of the family. Tomas got his degree in Athens and has done very well as a developer on the island of Cyprus. For years he has been after me to come to Greece and after all the visits he's made here I really am overdue for a trip. Meeting you guys here is even more motivation to come over and I promise you that my plans will include getting together with you guys.

[VersuS]

Cheers!

[Steve_Arm]

Anytime! Let us know.

[Mark Johnson]

Damn! ... Damn damn damn. ... I just went to see Snakes On a Plane and I realize now that it will no doubt make my little project seem less original. Not to mention that it's hard to compete with a major studio's effects department. It was a hell of a hoot and so over the top.

I guess the purpose of this little festival, though, is more about learning the craft and being creative. I can say that I'm having a great time. Moreover, I've really come to appreciate the new friends and colleagues I've met here. Thanks Brandon, Kholi, Trey, BlueSpider, R.L. Scott, MovieStunts, g0ldenb0y55 and, of course, Jack Daniel Stanley. These days I spend a lot of time asking myself "What would Jack do?"

This is a little off topic, but I guess its my thread so I can do what I want. In addition to Chow Baby, I am constructing an all-animated little 3D sci-fi short. Luckily, I've hit sort of a nice little hiatus in the usually busy forensics schedule so I can do this "fun" stuff in my spare time. Since there's no camera work it probably is of limited interest to anyone here. Still, I think it's going to be pretty cool. Here's a frame from the WIP of "The Prey". I got the 3D earth from a very talented effects artist in Germany who built a whole shader tree for this thing that does all the atmosphere effects accurately. ADDENDUM: I see that Trey just posted some of the UFO storyboards for the opening of Slim's Revenge. This 3D model is going to be put to good use on his behalf to create his effect:


http://www.pulp-friction.com/arrival.jpg

[Brandon Rice]

That model looks INSANE dude! Awesome stuff!! And hey, it's been great gettin' to know you too! Nice work on that stuff.

[spidey]

nice model man.

[Kholi]

Dope model, mang. Can't wait to see the footage for Chow Baby, though. I want to see some Live Action integrated with your skillz.

[Mark Johnson]

In case some of you are interested and are not following Brandon's Smuggler's Ransom thread, here's a little outline of the effect I'm doing to transform a day shot to night. I'll be using some of these techniques in Chow Baby as well:
http://www.pulp-friction.com/NightFX.jpg

[Kholi]

Holy crap, Mark.

That's such a great mini-tutorial.

This thread is proably the most in-depth special effects thread I've seen on DVXuser.

Great shiet!

[Brandon Rice]

Mark's THE MAN! WHOO HOO! Rock and roll!

[VersuS]

I would never have the discipline to sit down and learn all this 3D,cg stuff....that's why I have huge respect for people like Mark.

[Mark Johnson]

I'm working on the 3D snake this week. Below is one of the "bump maps" for the snake's head. Basically, this is a 2D image that is applied to the model to add depth. Wherever the image is WHITE the geometry is raised and wherever the image is BLACK, the geometry is depressed. Thus, by applying this map to the snake model's head, I can create surface scales and fissures without having to actually build that geometry. This is much more efficient than trying to create individual scales and surfaces for the snake model. In fact, using bump maps is probably one of the biggest secrets to creating CGI realism with today's technology.
http://www.pulp-friction.com/snakebump.jpg

[Jack Daniel Stanley]

Wow. Amazing!

[Mark Johnson]

This is one of the texture maps that I'm working on for the snake. As mentioned above, the black&white image affects the surface of the model. This COLOR MAP merely applies color to the corresponding area so that the surface looks realistic. This map will be wrapped around the snake 360 degrees all along its body (except for the head). I build these maps in Photoshop so that you can't see a seam where the map overlaps itself. I used photos of snakes I found on the net for this image. This particular map will repeat over and over the length of the snake so that I don't have to build the whole snakeskin.


http://www.pulp-friction.com/snakeskin.jpg

[Brandon Rice]

whoa! That's stinkin' cool! I LOVE SNAKES!!! AND CGI!!! :)

[VersuS]

I hate snakes but this stuff is great! This is a movie I'm looking forward to because I am sure it's gonna be a huge lesson in 3D.

[Kholi]

With Jack's new announcement about your involvement in REKINDLED... wow.

I dunno how you juggle the weight, Mark. But, kudos to you. Not only are you stepping in with a great and promising project, but you're helping with so many others.

Proves that not all California people are bad, huh?

Looking forward to more updates y0.

[Magnus]

This is an excellent thread!

Thanks a lot Vislaw, I can't wait for some more updates.
Your thread actually made me consider trying some 3d for the Horrorfest but I think I'll stick to clay and latex, hehe. :zombie_smiley: Might be hard to learn 3d in one month.

Thanks again. :thumbsup:

Best, M.

[Mark Johnson]

Ha ha, Magnus, thanks for the note. Your note made me think about trying latex but I think I'll stick to 3D!

[Mark Johnson]

Momentum continues to build! I'm pleased to announce the addition of two new members of the cast who will be part of a little pre-opening title sequence. First, is the adorable David Johnson (my 11-year old son) ...




http://www.pulp-friction.com/Grab01.jpg

Next is the adorable "BUDDY" who is owned by a friend. (David has a wonderful cat but the little shit won't take direction for beans. Not that Buddy is that much better, but at least he will chase a ball!!!) ...
http://www.pulp-friction.com/Grab02.jpg

[Jack Daniel Stanley]

With Jack's new announcement about your involvement in REKINDLED... wow.

I dunno how you juggle the weight, Mark....

It's because he's superhuman ... and he lived through law school, passed the bar, and was a trial lawyer, working on three projects is probably cake after that.

[Mark Johnson]

Buddy is ready for his closeup ...

http://www.pulp-friction.com/set03.jpg



Focus assist, you jerk, focus assist!!!!

http://www.pulp-friction.com/set02.jpg



Directing one's offspring is a thankless job ...

http://www.pulp-friction.com/set01.jpg

Get that friggin' dog over here for his crane shot ...

http://www.pulp-friction.com/set04.jpg

[SLIDEentertainment]

MARK!

This is exciting! Great BTS stills and the snake map looks SWEET! Cool to see you in action...Looking forward to see this one big time! Keep it coming!

TREY

[Kholi]

Whoa. Look at those pro-tools.

Good geez.

[Mark Johnson]

Hey man, I'm VERY aware that it's the carpenter and not the hammer that makes the real difference. That's why I'm so pumped to be joining Jack on REKINDLED.

By the way, kholi, that friggin' clown has already shown up in my dreams twice ... and it was not pretty. There's nothing like a deranged clown to say abnormal psychology.

[Kholi]

LoL. I just hope it works.

And yeah, tools might not make the carpenter, but the good ones really get the job done, yeah?

[Brandon Rice]

Very nice BTS pics, and wow look at that Kessler crane! LOVE IT!

[VersuS]

loved the BTS!!! I WANT to get myself a crane....sob....

[Jack Daniel Stanley]

Hey man, I'm VERY aware that it's the carpenter and not the hammer that makes the real difference. That's why I'm so pumped to be joining Jack on REKINDLED....

Ha ... thanks, man.

Any more updates on your thang?

[Mark Johnson]

I'll have some more stuff up probably tonight or tomorrow at the latest. Also, this coming Labor Day weekend we're going to be doing some serious shooting.

That raises a question, by the way. You see, when I was shooting in the parking garage the other evening a security guard asked me if I had cleared it with the management (this is the complex I live in). I lied and told him I had. Frankly, I hadn't given it much thought since I live here and have a parking space in the garage. Now I'm wondering if I should try to clear it with the complex management. My worry is that they would say 'no' and then what do I do? It's a common area and I obviously am entitled to be on site. However, its obviously not a use contemplated and arguably could disturb other residents. Any thoughts on this subject peeples?

[Jack Daniel Stanley]

lol, you are the lawyer man :laugh:

I have thoughts on it, but will PM or talk to you on the phone rather than post here ... as Mark Johnson Esq I'm sure you can imagine why. http://goldismoney.info/forums/images/smilies/wink.gif

[mameragex]

Wow! I'm just blown away by your equipment alone.....Speaking of equipment, You look like you got more than enough, sooooo, I was wondering If you win.... i think you should donate the HVX to me...lol.

I would wish you luck but MAN! The way your setup is looking you may already have it. lol

[Mark Johnson]

Hey mameragex, thanks for the note and kind words. Honestly, I think my only shot at any glory will be the reflected glow that may result from the assistance I'm giving to Jack with Rekindled and Trey's crew on Slim's Revenge.

I see Chow Baby as a quirky little piece that hopefully will entertain some people who fondly recall the "B" movies of yore. But maybe there will be some sort of special fx recognition in the end. I'd be happy with any award and I am sure the HVX will be safely stowed in someone else's locker on Halloween.

[Mark Johnson]

ANNOUNCEMENT: See update on front page of thread. Composer Guthrie Lowe has signed on to score Chow Baby. This guy is really hot and one of the up and coming Northern California film/television composers. Samples of his work can be heard on his site www.guthrielowe.com (http://www.guthrielowe.com).

[Kholi]

Good luck on finding a new actress!

And congrats on scoring a BMI musician. Great talent follows great projects.

[Jack Daniel Stanley]

Cool.

I listened to his stuff - nice.
Definitely has an ear for the genre!

[Mark Johnson]

Finished first day of auditioning for lead actress and have had some really impressive candidates. Here's some clips of Rebecca Washo, who has great film and television credits:

http://www.lodohappyhour.com/RebeccaShots.jpg

[Brandon Rice]

Cool! She has a real "movie" look to her. Have you finalized her as cast yet?

[Mark Johnson]

I have more auditions this afternoon and a few finals on Thursday. I did very much like Rebecca's look and she is definitely a top prospect. However, a couple of the others yesterday were extremely talented and the resumes for today and tomorrow appear to have some real gems as well.

I'm going to put the clips on a reel and on Friday morning I'm going to have my small crew sit down as a focus group. All of the actresses auditioning are aware we're going to post our decision at NOON Friday and shooting commences Saturday evening.

An interesting aspect to Rebecca as a choice is the fact that she's been cast in a feature with good funding (major role as female psychologist in a thriller). It would be pretty cool to have a lead who gets some buzz from a bigger project.

[Brandon Rice]

Cool! Well good luck to you on that! And good luck on the shooting... you sure are getting a lot done in a short period of time! nice work.

[Mark Johnson]

Yeah, I must be crazy. I'm going to try to get all the photography finished over the Labor Day holiday and then I'm heading out to New York to help Jack with REKINDLED. I've been overseeing a couple railroad crossing collision cases at the same time and (as you are well aware, Brandon) I've had gremlins in the workstation that have complicated life a lot!

However, I wouldn't have it any other way. I love having a lot of irons in the fire.

Fortunately, I've got a young specialFX artist interested in helping me with the big opening shots for Trey's SLIM'S REVENGE.

[Brandon Rice]

Yes sir... workstation issues can be a bugger... Can't wait to see your work on the films mentioned and your film as well, I am sure it's going to be fun!

[Mark Johnson]

This is Melanie Bass, who is also in the running. She could really emote with that wide-eyed scared look. She also has an interesting "bonus" in that her boyfriend is a color and effects artist with an amazing set of high-end tools. He offered to work on the film if his girlfriend is lead. Kind of an interesting approach.

http://www.lodohappyhour.com/MelanieBass.jpg

[Brandon Rice]

indeed a completely different look... she does look like she could play freaked and scared very good though.

[Mark Johnson]

This is Hang Nguyen Holoyda, who has a number of film credits, including some work for the majors and she's quite an athlete with a black belt in Tae Kwan Do.

http://www.lodohappyhour.com/HangNguyen.jpg

[Brandon Rice]

If you want my honest critique based on these pics alone, I'd say she looks too old IMO... but the black belt skilz would be cool!

[Mark Johnson]

Yeah, also this is a little short that deliberately pays homage to the classic "B" films which played up the beauty/beast dynamic a lot. So, my goal is to try to shoot it straight with an actress who can "sell" the terror realistically, but there needs to be somewhat of an 'eye candy' element if I'm going to be keeping to my original vision.

[Brandon Rice]

Yep, that makes sense, totally... blonde bombshell is probably gunna be the way to go.

[TheatreGuy]

Hey Mark...

GREAT WORK ON BRANDON'S FILM!!! Really cool stuff. That helicopter with its searchlight is GREAT!

And I love the work that you are doing on your own film. Looks FANTASTIC! CGI sure does open a whole new world, huh?

[-zach-]

I'd say if you got Melanie Bass to dye her hair blonde for it, then I would go with her. That would be awesome. Can't wait for the movie!

[MOVIE MASTER]

i think youre film looks cool

what animation prog. did you use, to make snake?

[Mark Johnson]

Thanks MovieMaster. The snake was modeled with MODO and is being animated using EIAS and 3DMAX.

[Mark Johnson]

After auditioning 17 very talented actresses, we've awarded the role to Jana Ireton of San Jose. Jana has film and television credits including a small part in Dreamworks' THE ISLAND. Jana is 29, stands 5' 10" barefoot and runs wonderfully in high heels. We're very excited to have her join the project.

http://www.lodohappyhour.com/JanaSnaps.jpg

[Matt Sconce]

After auditioning 17 very talented actresses, we've awarded the role to Jana Ireton of San Jose. Jana has film and television credits including a small part in Dreamworks' THE ISLAND. Jana is 29, stands 5' 10" barefoot and runs wonderfully in high heels. We're very excited to have her join the project.


Woohoo!

[Brandon Rice]

NICE! Congrats on getting her cast! The Island is one of my fave movies ever! Wonder if she knows my buddy Kevin Derr (he did a bunch of stunts for that movie)

[Mark Johnson]

You know, I'll ask her! Thanks Brandon. It was a really difficult decision and I'm glad I have the audition reels for future reference.

[Brandon Rice]

It was a really difficult decision and I'm glad I have the audition reels for future reference.

For sure... it's good it was difficult though... that means you had some real talent show up! :) Looking forward to seeing more! You're shooting real soon right?

[Mark Johnson]

Yeah, man. Set call for the crew is 4 p.m. tomorrow (Saturday) and we're going to try to finish Sunday night. However, everyone, including my lead, is cool if we end up shooting pickups on Monday.

Also, I worked out permission for shooting the location, which was a big concern of mine. So I think we're completely go and we should have some great BTS shots next week. Also, I believe BlueSpider is going to come help crew on Sunday, which is way cool. Anybody else in Northern Cali who wants to come by even just to take a peek is welcome.

[Larry Rutledge]

Hey Mark, just started really checking out the horror threads. This is looking fantastic.

I see you are, at least part of the time, in San Jose. I work in Pleasanton -- just a hop, skip and a jump from you...maybe we could get together sometime to "do lunch" like a couple of Hollywood snobs :)

Anyway, good luck on your projects and I love the helicopter work you did for Brandon.

Peace,
Larry

[Brandon Rice]

Yeah, man. Set call for the crew is 4 p.m. tomorrow (Saturday) and we're going to try to finish Sunday night. However, everyone, including my lead, is cool if we end up shooting pickups on Monday.

Also, I worked out permission for shooting the location, which was a big concern of mine. So I think we're completely go and we should have some great BTS shots next week. Also, I believe BlueSpider is going to come help crew on Sunday, which is way cool. Anybody else in Northern Cali who wants to come by even just to take a peek is welcome.

Awesome news! GOod luck with your shoot my friend, wish I was out that way, I'd be there for sure... looking forward to some cool BTS stuff!:Drogar-BigGrin(DBG)

[cinealma]

Yeah, man. Set call for the crew is 4 p.m. tomorrow (Saturday) and we're going to try to finish Sunday night. However, everyone, including my lead, is cool if we end up shooting pickups on Monday.

Also, I worked out permission for shooting the location, which was a big concern of mine. So I think we're completely go and we should have some great BTS shots next week. Also, I believe BlueSpider is going to come help crew on Sunday, which is way cool. Anybody else in Northern Cali who wants to come by even just to take a peek is welcome.

Lookin' good, my man. I'm sure almost everybody can relate about locations. Glad to here you secured it.

My kids were watching the Snakemaster on Discovery Channel last night. He was after a 30 foot Burmese python, "just to take a couple of pictures of one." Well, he found one. Looked like a 20 to 25 footer. Big ass sucker. It had just ate a monkey or something. Anyway, the snake got really super pissed and started darting for the guy with it's big ass mouth wide open.

And then I started thinking about your movie.

I'm thinking, maybe when it comes out, I'll tell my kids,

"Hey, kids, remember that show we watched about the big ass snake that wanted to eat that guy? Well, here's part two."

And then I'd show them Chow Baby.

And then they'd scream in terror and have nightmares and keep my wife up all night.

Serves her right. She used Miracle Whip in my tuna fish sandwhich today. I hate Miracle Whip.



John G.

[Mark Johnson]

maybe we could get together sometime to "do lunch" like a couple of Hollywood snobs

Absolutely Larry!!!! Say, I think one of my favorite steak places is up there in Pleasanton or at least close to it. I'll try to remember the name and it they do lunch we'll do lunch!!!

Brandon, I only wish you could be here. After seeing your work I'd love to have you on the set.


My kids were watching the Snakemaster on Discovery Channel last night.

John, thanks for that headsup. I am going to try to find that and TiVo it when it runs again!

[insanityfw]

Brilliant Mark. Can't wait to see it!!!

[Larry Rutledge]

Absolutely Larry!!!! Say, I think one of my favorite steak places is up there in Pleasanton or at least close to it. I'll try to remember the name and it they do lunch we'll do lunch!!!

You said my favorite word..."steak" :Drogar-BigGrin(DBG) Sounds good man...just let me know.

[Brandon Rice]

Brandon, I only wish you could be here. After seeing your work I'd love to have you on the set.


I'll tell ya, it'd be great being there, and seeing how you shoot, and how you frame for your effects and stuff... that stuff fascinates me so much...

[cinealma]

John, thanks for that headsup. I am going to try to find that and TiVo it when it runs again!

You definitely should catch it, especially with your film. Did you watch any snake stuff prior to the CGI'ing? I assume you did, but let me tell you something... after watching that show, I swear that I NEVER would have believed that such a large snake could move like this one did. It lunged and tried to bite this guy several times VERY quickly. Stood up about four feet high to do it, to, kind of like a cobra. I tell you, I would have sh*t my pants and been snake food if it were me!


John G.

[BLUESPIDER]

You'all better watch out! Mark's got some suprises up his sleves! :)



ps: Nice finally meeting you Mark! Looking forward to collaborate in the near future.

[Mark Johnson]

Hey Spider dooooood. It was so cool to have you and Corn (Frank) come to the set. Hope we see you tomorrow!

And I gotta say after seeing the copy of Tears that you brought with you that I am friggin' blown away by your talent. Smokin'!!!!!!

[Mark Johnson]

Behind the scenes video from last night's shoot! Right click the image to download a low-res QuickTime file (6.6 megs):


http://www.lodohappyhour.com/btsthumb.jpg (http://www.lodohappyhour.com/BehindSmall.mov)

[Brandon Rice]

Downloading now! Can't wait!

[Brandon Rice]

Very cool! I love the dolly and crane rig you had... sick stuff!!!

[Matt Sconce]

That was fun to watch! I enjoyed the wall directing and the scare. Thanks for showing us!

[Mark Johnson]

Thanks guys. I'm no Jack Stanley but we sure had fun last night. We're going to pick up again in about 2 hours and hopefully get it all in the can.

[Brandon Rice]

Nice! Dude, it was cool watching you direct the wall shot and scare... looks like Jana did a GREAT job for you!

[Mark Johnson]

Thanks Brandon. ... Jana was perfect for this project (at least my vision of it). I loved her look and I especially loved the fact that she's such a gem to work with.

Man, I'm worried about being able to complete all the effects now! I think there will be some sleepless nights coming!

[Brandon Rice]

Thanks Brandon. ... Jana was perfect for this project (at least my vision of it). I loved her look and I especially loved the fact that she's such a gem to work with.

Man, I'm worried about being able to complete all the effects now! I think there will be some sleepless nights coming!

She really does have a great look, and looked good on camera.

I am sure you'll complete those effects man. You are the effects monster. heehee.

[EJ Pennypacker]

My hopes are HIGH for this one. lol.

EJ

[Jack Daniel Stanley]

I just clicked the link.
I'm so excited to watch it ... downloading .. downloading :)

[Jack Daniel Stanley]

Ha! That was cool.
Nice toys! :laugh:

[VersuS]

I am dowloading it right now! Cant wait to see what you pulled there...:D

[cinealma]

Mark, loved the BTS stuff. Thanks for putting it up. Though... you would have looked MUCH better in a Dodgers jersey! :thumbsup:


John G.

[VisQue]

Mark,

I think I've mentioned this before but it needs to be said again. You do great stuff (even when it's a bit disturbing)!

When you are planning for your next short keep in mind that I will find a way to get my butt out to the left coast.

VisQue

[Mark Johnson]

New Behind-The-Scenes footage from Day 2 of shooting:

http://www.lodohappyhour.com/bts2thumb.jpg (http://www.lodohappyhour.com/bts2.mov)

The clip includes some footage showing the setup for shooting the snake attack scene. For a number of reasons I elected to shoot the actress against a white background to pull a luma key rather than a chroma key. We also used a flexible drain pipe wrapped around the actress to provide some reference for the purpose of adding the snake coils in post:

http://www.lodohappyhour.com/Coil.jpg

[Brandon Rice]

downloading now, can't wait!

[VersuS]

Downloading.....very nice mark..very nice...

[Brandon Rice]

Just watched it! Nice job. I enjoyed it... funny stuff when you were demonstrating the snake coils, lol.

[Mark Johnson]

Well, tonight I'm off on a red-eye flight to New York to help Jack with his masterpiece. I'll have my laptop with me and will update my own thread while there. Maybe even shoot some BTS on Rekindled too!

[Jack Daniel Stanley]

Great stuff ... see you in 24.

[Brandon Rice]

Well, tonight I'm off on a red-eye flight to New York to help Jack with his masterpiece. I'll have my laptop with me and will update my own thread while there. Maybe even shoot some BTS on Rekindled too!

Nice! I'd KILL to see some BTS of rekindled! :)

[Mark Johnson]

The CHOW BABY buzz continues to build! I'm delighted to announce that San Francisco-based Sound Engineer and SFX Editor Brad Semenoff is now attached to CHOW BABY and will be handling the Foley and SFX work on the film. Brad engineers at Polarity Post Production and has received rave notices from both film and television clients. WELCOME to the bizarro world that is CHOW BABY, Brad!

[VersuS]

I am so glad about you guys over there, seeing how you ENRICH your productions with talented people with proven abilities....you are just awesome!! I haven't been around for previous fests, but from what I'm seeing at horrorfest we're going to get our hands on some AMAZING productions!!! I love this fest and this forum! Wish I were across the ocean!

[Brandon Rice]

Awesome news Mark! Way to go. Looking forward to this one!

[Mark Johnson]

VersuS, Thanks so much for following my thread and contributing.


I haven't been around for previous fests

Man, me too. This is my first time and I just jumped in the pool and started dog-paddling. This is my favorite site on the web by far. So much to learn. So much to share and so many great people.

[Matt Sconce]

VersuS, Thanks so much for following my thread and contributing.



Man, me too. This is my first time and I just jumped in the pool and started dog-paddling. This is my favorite site on the web by far. So much to learn. So much to share and so many great people.

I totally agree. I feel like I have been to film school after a year on here. I am glad Chow Baby is here. I look forward to it.

[Mark Johnson]

I've been doing some research and have found some interesting reference materials such as this:

http://www.cnn.com/2006/US/09/05/killer.snake.ap/index.html?section=cnn_latest

And then there is this little gem: Python swallows pregnant sheep:

http://www.lodohappyhour.com/PythonSwallowsSheep.jpg

[cinealma]

:eek::eek::eek: Omg!


John G.

[MOVIE STUNTS]

That's nothin, on the discovery channel a few days ago i saw an articulated python, the largest snake species in the world; that had to be at least 36 feet long. It was so massive it could easily eat 4 full sized people.

[Jack Daniel Stanley]

This is actually the same snake, but he's on a diet know.
Cutting down to one sheep a day, which have much less saturated fat than your average American anyway.

[MOVIE STUNTS]

Found these amazing pics.

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/15484/1157603361.jpg

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/15484/1157603403.jpg

[VersuS]

I Hate Snakes!

[cinealma]

That's nothin, on the discovery channel a few days ago i saw an articulated python, the largest snake species in the world; that had to be at least 36 feet long. It was so massive it could easily eat 4 full sized people.

Yeah, that's the one I was talking about! That SnakeMaster guy! You ever see a snake that big move like that?


John G.

[MOVIE STUNTS]

Scared the piss out of me, raised up and lunging at that guy it was as tall as him.

[Slimothy]

Wow. That pic is frickin' craz-nizzle.

[Brandon Rice]

Hey Mark, since you're in NY helping Jack out on Rekindled, how is post production on Chow Baby working for you? Do you have your setup portable? Or will you wait on editing until you get back?

[snodart]

Mark, great thread. I envy Jack for having you on board. I have a huge appreciation for your CG skills. I have tooled around with Maya off and on over the last year only to realize the huge amount of work and patience it takes to create quality CG work. Looking forward to more!

[Jack Daniel Stanley]

Yeah Mark is great to have around :love4:
(mui loco en la cabeza ... but great!) :grin:

[Brandon Rice]

Crazy in the head eh? heehee

[Inexistence]

Wow! You've put a ton of time into the cg. Everything looks really great! I'm a
Max guy myself but, I might wanna pick your brain about EI one day.

[Mark Johnson]

As many of you know, since last Wednesday I've been in New York serving as co-producer and VFX artist for Jack Daniel Stanley's REKINDLED entry in Horrorfest. Thus, CHOW BABY has been on the back burner. However, I promise real cool stuff to come later this week as I get back into my own twisted world of snakes and hot babes.

If you haven't visited Jack's thread lately it would be worth the trip. I've posted some of my own BTS images taken on the REKINDLED set that are pretty trippy:

[VisQue]

Looking forward to your return to the Snakes n' Babes.

[Mark Johnson]

Talk about brutal. After shooting on the REKINDLED set all night I had to go to Northern Pennsylvannia to shoot footage for a forensic project that is suddenly in emergency mode. Sam, a member of the crew drove with me and we took turns so we could stay awake behind the wheel. Then we had to drive back to New York. It's 10 p.m. and we're getting ready to shoot again so it looks like 2 days with no sleep for the doctor. Then I have to fly back to California on a red-eye tomorrow night. Wish me luck.

[Kyle Stebbins]

shit son, good luck. i cant WAIT to see your movie!!!

[Brandon Rice]

Talk about brutal. After shooting on the REKINDLED set all night I had to go to Northern Pennsylvannia to shoot footage for a forensic project that is suddenly in emergency mode. Sam, a member of the crew drove with me and we took turns so we could stay awake behind the wheel. Then we had to drive back to New York. It's 10 p.m. and we're getting ready to shoot again so it looks like 2 days with no sleep for the doctor. Then I have to fly back to California on a red-eye tomorrow night. Wish me luck.

Good luck Mark, dang you're workin' hard man... don't worry about those final Smuggler's shots... get them to me sometime this weekend if you can... if not, let me know, thanks :thumbsup:

[Edgen]

Mark, Damn dude! Those pictures of the python are friggin' unreal! It baffles me to see nature go on such a bizarre direction in that it will devour anything that moves. Including hot babes. which... I guess i'll just have to wait to see the film to find out what really happens. :)

I dug the BTS video.. Not sure if it was mentioned, but who's the music by? Is it the same composer scoring your film?

/j

[Mark Johnson]

Brandon: Thanks for understanding. Will get you the smuggler shots by this weekend for certainty.

Edgen: I threw together the music using SonicFirePro. It's a great tool for doing short film scores.

***

It's 7:05 a.m. here in Brooklyn and Jack just called an end to the shooting day. I have to say without exaggeration that the stuff we got on the disk drives today was magical.

[Edgen]

Mark, So you are going to use this 'sonicfirPro' software to score your film?... when there's probably about 15-20+ composers lurking the forum willing to do it for just for fun? Or do you have someone lined up already? If not, I can get you a few names or recommendations if you like.

all the best!
/j

[Mark Johnson]

Yes, indeed, there are great composers on the forum. While I have scored stuff with SonicFirePro, I'm using the very talented San Francisco composer Guthrie Lowe to score Chow Baby. SonicFirePro is great to create an instant sound track that matches whatever length you need. It can't compete with the talents of a true artist, though.

[Michael_Petro]

Well I just read this thread and all I can say is WOW looks nice.

[Edgen]

Yes, indeed, there are great composers on the forum. While I have scored stuff with SonicFirePro, I'm using the very talented San Francisco composer Guthrie Lowe to score Chow Baby. SonicFirePro is great to create an instant sound track that matches whatever length you need. It can't compete with the talents of a true artist, though.

Mark, Shew!! Startin' to say. Glad to see you using a real muscian for the project. :thumbsup: A heavy weight has just been lifted.. ahh the bliss... Anxious to see how the film turns out.

/j

[TheatreGuy]

Mark, you are amazing! I cannot wait to see your film and the work you did on Jack's "Rekindled." And I love what I saw of the work you did on Brandon's "Ransom."

Speaking of your film, I love the title. I liked it the first time I saw it but I must confess... it was only a couple of days ago that I caught the double entendre!!! (DOH!)

Nice man!

[Mark Johnson]

Ted,

I'm such a fan of your thread so it is a real pleasure to have you post here on mine. To me, your enthusiasm and self-effacing attitude are everything that I cherish about the low-budget indie film movement. By the way, I loved your new pics. Wow. All you have to do is keep shooting and keep learning and you'll be unstoppable. I only wish I lived close so that I could come by your next shooting session.

Ciao!

[Ralph Oshiro]

You see, when I was shooting in the parking garage the other evening a security guard asked me if I had cleared it with the management (this is the complex I live in). I lied and told him I had. Frankly, I hadn't given it much thought since I live here and have a parking space in the garage. Now I'm wondering if I should try to clear it with the complex management. My worry is that they would say 'no' and then what do I do??That's funny. I too, shot in my building's parking garage for zombiefest. In fact, the actual security guard, I cast as one of the principals! I had built up a long term rapport with the manager and got her to agree to give me written permission to show the security guards. It read, on her business card, "Okay to shoot home movie in parking garage."

But, we also shot in the lobby, and did a blood gag that sprayed all over the lobby walls. I didn't tell the manager about this part. I went back and forth about fessing up to her, since some of the blood seeped under the office door, and we couldn't reach it to clean it up. But, cowardice reigned, and I ended up "forgetting" the whole thing. About two weeks later, I get a call from her, "Did you happen to shoot something in the lobby?" The whole night of shooting was caught on security cameras.

[Mark Johnson]

God, that was a funny story. I never even thought about security cameras!!!!!

I finally decided to be proactive and went to the management with a flyer I had printed addressed to the security guards showing my guy in his steadycam rig. The flyer gave my name and phone number and said it was merely to make certain that if a resident called in the fact that a guy in a strange rig was walking around the garage they would know what it was.

The management was only focused on how thoughtful I was being and so the issue of whether I had permission or not didn't come up. With the ice broken I was able to get her business card and was all set in case the issue arose while we were shooting.

When I was in Brooklyn this week I was reminded how important this element is because Jack had to get permission and a key to get into the dungeon where Rekindled was being shot. If we didn't have the cooperation of the maintenance guy we would have been sunk. He even turned out to be the best gaffer in the borough as he rigged lights, carried gear and otherwise was extremely helpful. I'll never forget how he would shout out "I do, I do ...." anytime something had to be moved or when a power cable needed to be run. Just goes to show that kindness is probably the best asset you can bring to these indie shoots.

[TimurCivan]

haha i remeber that guy! the Super of the Building is the man. he was really nice.

[TheatreGuy]

Ted,

I'm such a fan of your thread so it is a real pleasure to have you post here on mine. To me, your enthusiasm and self-effacing attitude are everything that I cherish about the low-budget indie film movement. By the way, I loved your new pics. Wow. All you have to do is keep shooting and keep learning and you'll be unstoppable. I only wish I lived close so that I could come by your next shooting session.

Ciao!
[INSERT blushing smily] Wow Mark! Thank you for so many kind words. I am flattered in many ways.

I am having such a great time learning from the people on this site. It is really unbelievable how much useful information there is here. I love to learn, educate and give back whenever I can. I am glad that comes through in my thread. (It is really amazing "getting to know people" with words and words only.)

As for shooting and learning.... there has been PLENTY of that over the past two weeks! Everyday I learn something new about this wonderful craft.

One thing that has been really special has been following all of these film discussion threads for Horrorfest. It is really going to be something to watch them having "lived" through part of their process.

Thanks again!

Chow, uh... I mean... Ciao! :)

Ted

[TimurCivan]

MArk are yo ustill doing chow baby? now that Rekindled is a Joint entry?

i want to see...... snakes on a Corpse.

[Mark Johnson]

Yes, I'm still working on CHOW BABY. However, I am sorry to have to report that my nephew, Brett, who took on a big part of CHOW BABY since Labor Day remains in critical condition after he was struck by a jeep while walking in Downtown Denver last week. Brett is a 3D artist as well as my assistant cameraman and we are all praying for his recovery.

I had handed off a substantial amount of VFX to Brett and that allowed me to join Jack as well as working on the SLIM'S REVENGE intro FX.

Frankly, I am doubtful that CHOW BABY will be completed by the Festival deadline of 10/1 under these circumstances. Nevertheless, I'm going to keep working on it and will likely submit a trailer for the film inasmuch as I will DEFINITELY finish it even if not in time for the Horrorfest.

I met with my actress and crew this past weekend to discuss all of this and they are very supportive of me NOT cobbling together a pastiche' version simply to have an entry in the festival. We all have had too much fun and are committed to making CHOW BABY a quality production even if it is pretty goofy in its concept.

I'm not going to make an official announcement until later this week after I see if I can retrieve files from Brett's computer to see how much he was able to get done before the accident. I'm not really concerned about rendering time as much as I am concerned about the 3D lighting and project setup. I will promise everyone, though, that if it isn't possible to complete my "Baby" for the HorrorFest I will start a thread in the DVXUSER CAFE for the film's progress so that those of you interested in it can follow the work.

As much as the CHOW BABY news is distressing, I have to say that I am invigorated and extremely enthused over what Jack and I are doing on REKINDLED. Although I'm flattered to have you call it a "joint entry," Jack is the Admiral of the REKINDLED ship while I'm merely the First Mate. Actually, I think we make a great team on REKINDLED since my taking over some of the DP duties and VFX has allowed Jack to really concentrate on Directing and Editing. I've been blown away with the rough cuts he's put together.

So, that's the current status of CHOW BABY. There WILL be some new snake animation updates because I have been working on the effects even as I've been helping on REKINDLED. There's still almost two weeks time left and I'm not going to drop CHOW BABY. Brett would be pissed off if he recovers and finds that I lost interest or dropped the ball. You see, he LOVES the project and I sort of feel like I owe it to him to make it what we planned it to be. Moreover, Jana (my damsel in distress) is counting on her "death by snake" to be a big part of the "darker side" of her reel.

So, thanks for your interest and I hope you (and everyone else who has followed this thread) will continue to do so.

Mark

[Tom Marshall]

However, I am sorry to have to report that my nephew, Brett, who took on a big part of CHOW BABY since Labor Day remains in critical condition after he was struck by a jeep while walking in Downtown Denver last week. Brett is a 3D artist as well as my assistant cameraman and we are all praying for his recovery.


Hey Mark, I hope your nephew is OK and makes a quick and full recovery!

[BLUESPIDER]

Mark, sorry to hear about Bret. I hope everything turns out okay. I'll be praying for him man. Good luck with everything.

[Cryogenic Filmworks]

Mark, I really hope your nephew pulls through ok. I've been following your thread for some time now and am really hoping to see your entry. I'm sure it will be great however you end up finishing it. Again, best wishes to your nephew.

[Mark Harris]

Yeah, best wishes for your Nephew.

[Brandon Rice]

Mark, you know I'm praying for Brett and your family. I hope he recovers quickly. It's understandable to take the time to make this piece right. I am behind you 100% on the project... I'm not a CG or 3D artist, but let me know if I can help you out at all.

[VersuS]

All my best wishes Mark!!!! Hope everything turns out ok for your nephew!!!!

[Slimothy]

What a terrible story Mark. Good luck w/ everything and best wishes to your nephew, Brett.

Tim.

[TimurCivan]

oh Man!!! thats terrible!

I am so sorry! I will say a prayer for him.

[TheatreGuy]

Hey Mark, I am sorry to hear about your nephew's accident. How awful. I hope he and the family are all doing as well as can be and that a full recovery is on it's way.

Very tragic to hear.

As for Chow Baby, put the priorities in order and know that you have the support of a lot of people!

I'll be staying tuned for updates.

Good luck!

Ted

[Jack Daniel Stanley]

I was there when Mark received this call while we were in NY. It was in the afternoon before an all night shoot beginning around 8pm or so. Needless to say, he was pretty shaken up. But he took a long walk wearing sunglasses to talk to family and friends on the phone and then came back in and put in another 20 hour day. I was humbled by his dedication and drive before this tragedy and even more so in light of it.

[Jaime V]

I'm terribly sorry to hear that Mark. I wish Brett a speedy recovery.

[Mark Johnson]

Thankyou all for your prayers and thoughts. Hopefully, in due time Brett can be on line here and thank you all himself. He loves DVXuser and was a huge lurker on these HorrorFest threads.

[TheatreGuy]

I was there when Mark received this call while we were in NY. It was in the afternoon before an all night shoot beginning around 8pm or so. Needless to say, he was pretty shaken up. But he took a long walk wearing sunglasses to talk to family and friends on the phone and then came back in and put in another 20 hour day. I was humbled by his dedication and drive before this tragedy and even more so in light of it.
For the good of the many, as they say.

I imagine that, given the circumstances, Mark was in the right place. Among friends doing what he loves.

[cinealma]

Mark, my prayers for you and your family. I hope you nephew gets well.


John G.

[Steve_Arm]

Best wishes for a full recovery from me too.

[Edgen]

OOH man! That's aweful news Mark! :( I'm so sorry to hear about the accident. Ya, I wouldn't rush the submission just for this fest. Regardless of how long it takes you, i'll still bust my tail to be first in line to see your final film! :)

Good luck and I wish him well.

/j

[Larry Rutledge]

...i'll still bust my tail to be first in line to see your final film! :) I want to be 8th in line to watch the film, but I'll be first in line for that steak lunch when you're back up this way :grin:

Our prayers are with your nephew and the rest of the family.

[Mark Johnson]

You guys are like family ... better than some family, in fact. I have a cousin who has been incommunicado for 15 years, but I digress.

Thanks so much for your sincere comments and support. It means more to me than I can express and it truly has helped me get motivated again.

[TheatreGuy]

Wow Mark.... Your sincerity is coming through so strong that it actually unveiled your real name in your avatar!

Vislaw is bye-bye?

Be well, man!

[Lingothree]

Good luck, Mark.

[TheatreGuy]

Hey Mark, how is everything? I am sure that you are submerged in family and work... just checking in.

Miss you around here.

Ted

[Mark Johnson]

Hi guys. Although I've been spending most of my available time completing FX for REKINDLED, I have been in discussions with a Russian 3D artist, Andrey Kravchenko, who is one of the best 3D Max artists out there. Andrey is going to create and rig a new 3D snake that should improve my current snake - particularly with respect to animation.

I can also report that my nephew has made some progress although he remains unresponsive. Head trauma can take an inordinate time to recover from and we simply won't know his expected course until he finally wakes up. On behalf of my whole family I am very grateful to those of you who have given your encouragement, prayers and support. I remain hopeful that I'll have my assistant back sometime down the road so we can make more films together.

Since CHOW BABY won't be completed in time for the HorrorFest, I am going to devote myself to completing it by the end of the year as a personal project. Having worked on set with Jack, i may even go back and reshoot some stuff in light of what I learned from watching him. In any event, I am very grateful to all of you for your interest in my film and I hope many of you continue to follow its development when I move the thread to the Cafe after HorrorFest is over.

[Ben Sliker]

you betcha Mark! we'll all be here!

[Brandon Rice]

Yes siree! Glad to hear your nephew's making progress.

[Larry Rutledge]

Glad to see things are looking up Mark, still praying for your nephew (we are going through a similar situation with my uncle now, so I can definitely relate).

Let me know when you are back up in the San Jose/Pleasanton part of the world and I'll treat you to a nice steak :thumbsup:

[Michael_Petro]

When showing friends of mine, my thread.. I would show them what I was up agaisnt. I would always show them your thread because you had so much cool stuff, cg snake, full body scans, night to day etc.... I would say see he's got a cool crane and a snake! dude!... I just got a wheel chair and my unipod duct taped to a mic stand :) (see pic on my super cool thread:) ) everyone including my wife (who doesn't like my film..something about lesbians i'm not sure :) ) wanted to check it out It was a sad day when I found out it was going to be delayed and sadder to find out your nephew is in the hospital.

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family..