BARN DANCE - John LaBonney

Hi John,

I am very happy for you that all things are going well. Thank you very much for the "ten things list". This kind of detailed informtion is very helpful, not only for people who make their first film, also for the others who made already films. You described many things which were also my experience and when I made "Red Shoes" I thought perhaps only I have this problems, fears,....... To see that also other filmmaker making this experience, give me the feeling that it is absolutely the normal way to learn! :dankk2:
Susanne
 
Michael Anthony Horrigan said:
Get some grabs posted of this bad boy!
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In order to do that, I'll have to get over another fear: fear of giving the story away! But since you asked for them, I'll get some posted in the next couple of days.

Susanne G. said:
I thought perhaps only I have this problems, fears,....... To see that also other filmmaker making this experience, give me the feeling that it is absolutely the normal way to learn! :dankk2:
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I'll bet that there are a lot of budding filmmakers out there that have been stopped by these fears. Hopefully with people like you and me sharing this sentiment, some of them might be able to forge ahead and get out there making films.

blindbuzta said:
awesome! Sounds like it went exactly how a shoot is supposed to go! How'd that call sheet work out for you?..haha!
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Paul told me that this shoot was way more organized than most, which made me proud. And that call sheet was awesome. I copied the design and kind of tailored it to my own needs. Very helpful! Thanks.
 
John LaBonney said:
In order to do that, I'll have to get over another fear: fear of giving the story away! But since you asked for them, I'll get some posted in the next couple of days.
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Well, from the poster and the BTS we know there is a wheelchair involved. Post a few grabs of that! :thumbsup:

BTW, who's editing? I'm assuming that you are.

Cheers,

Mike
 
John LaBonney said:
It's funny you mention that. I was just wondering if I should try to get an editor. There are some fairly complex issues with editing this film, but Jeremiah said he would help with the greenscreen stuff, so I might give it a whirl myself. We'll see.
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I think you're capable, and it's the only way to learn. Get help with the green screen of course.

Good luck. :beer:

Mike
 
John LaBonney said:
It's funny you mention that. I was just wondering if I should try to get an editor. There are some fairly complex issues with editing this film, but Jeremiah said he would help with the greenscreen stuff, so I might give it a whirl myself. We'll see.
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Well I was gonna see if you wanted any help in this department. Let me know and we can work something out.
Pauly
 
Filming Barn Dance

Filming Barn Dance

At the request of Mr. John LaBonney, I have created a DVXuser account so I can share a little bit about my experience with the film.

First of all, I have no idea how I got to be so lucky! A month ago, my goal was to get through my first audition without breaking down or being laughed at...mission accomplished! I never imagined I'd get a role that would teach me so much and allow me to learn from such truly talented people.

I was so excited and nervous on Saturday, but everyone on set made me feel so comfortable! I wasn't quite sure where to be all the time so that I wasn't wandering off or getting in the way, but I found a shady spot by the outhouse and there I sat. Quite contently I might add. I enjoyed being able to watch the filming of some scenes I wasn't in so that I could understand the repetition and camera adjustments. It was pretty funny when I hopped in to hold some shade of John and then some glare in Aaron's face. It really made me appreciate the crew's hard work even more.

After an amazing lunch (Thanks again John and Michelle) it was my turn to get ready for filming. We hadn't rehearsed too much so I wasn't exactly sure the mood or feel we were going for, but I was assured that if things needed to be changed, I would be informed. So over and over we did the scene. Up the stairs, down the stairs, wait for a car, wait for the wind...it was all good though :]

The barn was such an amazing location! I had to keep reminding myself of that everytime I began sweating off my make up. But I really don't think any other barn would have had the same effect. It got a little uncomfortable with the heat and the lights, but I really did my best not to complain. I realize it's all neccessary.

By the time the extras arrived from Vegas I was pretty tired, and it gradually became harder to maintain my energy level, but all the kids were so excited, so I got excited all over again as well. I had a blast with the final scene, despite the numerous bugs. Just something that comes with using bright lights in the dark, i suppose.

This film has been such an incredible experience. I only hope I did the script justice. Thanks so much to everyone who helped!
 
Hey, Jana. Glad you had a good time. Can't wait to see how it turns out.

And welcome to the DVXUser forums.
 
John LaBonney said:
The Top Ten Things I Learned So Far About Directing While Working on Barn Dance

8. DIY stuff is fun to make and a cool way to save money, but the pro version of equipment is probably worth the rental cost when it's important. I built a DIY dolly which we used on this movie which works pretty well, but it isn't user friendly. Denis and I discussed this on the way home and he said he thinks that even though it costs some money, renting a solid professional dolly for the day is worth it, for the sake of time, ease of use, and quality of the shot. After all is said and done, I agree.
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For this fest I am the king of DIY... and I couldn't agree with you more. (At least all my gear will be Half-finished this time though)

Can't wait to see it!
 
I got some pics of the set that I took on my phone. Check it outtt.

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well i guess its my turn, so sorry it took so long but schools been hectic and im still moving into the new pad.

This saturday,when we filmed Barn Dance, was one of the greatest experiences of my life. I really am grateful that i had a chance to work on this flick. It all started on friday afternoon. My dads car broke down, and i showed up to pauls house late(quite a birthday wouldnt you say). well the next morning we left right on time(circa 5:30), and even had time to stop by micky dees, and we were still the first there.

Once we got to the barn, i remember there being somewhat amazed. not only on how bad ass the location was, but the fact that he was able to get us permission to film there. This five story ancient structure was a true work of art. In a couple of minutes later, Jerry and i were asked to unload some bails of hay to the second floor. they were freackn heavy!!! Paul had asked me to get some BTS footage so while they were setting up shots or John was directing the actors i took the opportunity to get some footy.

They day went by with a medley of setting up shots, smacking flies, wiping my sweaty forehead, and enjoying one of the greatest pastrami sandwiches ive ever had(thank you michelle). all in all, i wouldnt change one thing. we got to set up the Big green monster in all its glory(greenscreen), got to a talented young filmmaker/ film student aka dennis aka hopper aka the menace!!

To top off the whole experience we got to stay in what was the best hotel room i ever stayed in, at the statosphere. and the most amazing buffet/desert ever. The TI is da bomb mofo!

I just wanna take a chance to say how great and amazing John did. He had everything on lock and made the entire crew work together flawlessly. I honestly saw alot of stuff that i will definitely do on my productions. Any one that can huddle 19 hopped up teens on red bull is alright with me.

Much love my sojourner brother from Vegas and once again thank you,
Kevin Chacon
 
Sounds like it all went really well. The location looks GREAT!! Welcome Jana and stick around - it looks like this film could be really good and then maybe you'll get offered more roles.:)
Jason
 
Last Scene Shot

Last Scene Shot

We shot the last scene tonight. It didn't take long at all. Now comes the really hard part...post. I have been through this process a few times (standing by and trying to be supportive while John pulls his hair out trying to edit). And this one is going to be tough. With all of the amazing footage, I know he will stop at nothing less than perfect. But from what I have seen so far, it is going to be great!!
 
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I can hardly wait to see the final cut. I am thinking this is for sure gonna make one of the top slots. Good luck and let me know if you need anything.
Pauly

BTW here are a couple of shots from the set I took...
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Everyone did a fantastic job, hands down. Everyone pretty much wrote about the experience on set so I won't repeat it. But it was tons of fun working with very talented people. Definitely would wanna work with you guys again.

Still got that nice burn on my finger from those damn barndoors...I've got a different fingerprint now. haha
 
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