Today was our first production day for "On Parole."  Technically, in about an hour, day two begins at 1:00am.  But one thing at a time.

We beat the sun to a Brooklyn diner early this morning and finally began production.  From actors to grips to PA's, everyone was on their game.  The shoot went as well as it possibly could have - better even, if that's logically and logistically possible.  Maybe it wasn't before that last sentence, and it is now.  We'll have to wait to hear an official ruling from someone in Oxford, where they make words and concepts and logic.  I am digressing.   Let's talk more about the diner.  It was really a perfect location for us.  It was extremely old, run-down, and even trashy, but it had so much character.  So we utilized it.  Hard.  We took a look at the footage not long ago and it looks beautiful.

There will be a lot of tough decisions in the editing room.  Thanks to the great camera work, lighting, and sound, there are so many takes to choose from.  Also, every actor is amazing.  I really can't say enough about the talent we have on this film.  From the very beginning, they have all been spot on.  This is day one on production and already they are working so well together.  They are really making this script better than we wrote it.  And TJ is simply incredible.  Everything he does and says is just hilarious.  He really has this character in a headlock - a headlock from an angry older brother who wants the remote on game day.  We all came so close to loosing it on set so many times.  There were a few takes when everyone was just holding it in the whole time and finally they said cut and the whole room just burst out laughing.

Also, lunch was good.

I have to get going to Day 2! Expect production stills, a Day 2 blog post, and more in the next couple days!   If there's anything you want to know about production, I'd love to hear your comments.

Also, before I go, I should probably point out that we are still trying to fund raise as much as possible.  Production and post-production are still short on funds.  So, if you are interested, can be convinced, lost a bet to one of us, or found some money on the street, we would love it if you would consider donating.  It's fully tax-deductible!  WOW!

That's it for now.

Darren