Behind the Scenes of The Web Files Buzz, Episode 2

Episode 2 of The Web Files Buzz is here and it's colorful, fun, and fast-paced.  We started out with our very first active set visit.  With all of the episodes we have shot, it amazes me that it took us about 33 episodes to make that happen.  Now, my work schedule is a bit ridiculous right now, so I know that was a bit challenging for other shows that have tried to make it happen.  With the Circus set, the stars aligned and I was in town for more than 24 hours.

We hit the set at Panavision Studios on Day 2 of shooting and it was everything I anticipated it to be:  bright, busy, shiny, noisy, and energetic.  Heck, it even smelled like a circus with all of the hay splayed about on the floor of the Circus set.  We were able to grab the interview on the set with Andrea Ball, the director and producer.  Andrea is well known in the new media circles and I have tremendous admiration for the what she accomplished with this project.  Along with Sarah Evershed and Olga Kay, you've got three fantastic, strong, smart, and young women under the age of 30 taking charge of their careers with an ambitious, interactive project for YouTube.  Can you tell I am impressed?

Of course, I cannot leave out the Ringmaster, David Lawrence XVII.  I loved that he offered to audition for the role.  I would have killed to have listened in on that phone call.  I imagine Andrea didn't even think twice about casting him.  David also let us in on some of the SAG new media news.  We are working on a future episode to address the unions' role in New Media, so feel free to suggest any particular topics or questions you want us to address in the comment section below.

The second half of the show focused on The Resolve web series premiere at the new media favorite fiesta site, Busby's.  Wow, I think there were over 300 attendees there to check out Russ Cootey's production.  Impressive numbers and a busy red carpet--maybe a little too busy as we had to dodge actors walking into our shots and other media outlets, but Russ should be proud that The Resolve drew such a crowd.  This episode convinced me that it's important for The Web Files to reach outside of the familiar faces of web series and take the opportunity to feature other shows that are making their mark.  Russ kept us in the loop for several months, so I was aware of the show, production, and the eventual red carpet.  Keep on sending those emails to us.  I know Sandra and I both read them and I take notes on specific series.  Along the way, I have learned that timing is always a key component to making decisions as to when and how we shoot certain shows.  If I ever reply to your email with questions about premieres, finales, distribution dates, exciting news, etc, you will understand why.  We want your episode of The Web Files to succeed as timing can make all of the difference and having those dates handy for us is really important.

Finally, I have to thank Blip.tv for their continued support of The Web Files.  Week after week, they find a way to feature our show on the home page.  They are always available to answer our tech questions and I think their player is one of the best in the business.  So, thank you for letting us be a part of the Blip family.

If you haven't caught Episode 2 of The Web Files Buzz, click here: The Web Files Buzz.

Photos 4 and 5 courtesy of Melissa Anchondo.

The Web.Files Buzz #2 – Mar 2010

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The Buzz about the Web Series Biz with Kristyn Burtt. This episode features an on-set visit with Olga Kays Circus, an interactive short film written and directed by Andrea Ball and featuring acting luminary, David Lawrence. Part II of the Buzz takes place on the red carpet at the premiere launch of the new web series, The Resolve, by Russ Cootey.

Formats available: Flash Video (.flv), Quicktime (.mov), MP3 Audio (.mp3), MPEG-4 Video (.m4v)

Tags: series, the, web, files, buzz, kristyn, burtt, red, carpet, premiere, short, film, drama, circus, star, olga, kay, andrea, ball, david, lawrence, the, resolve, russ, cootey, youtube, lost, heroes, alex, ballar, ellen, dubin

How to do LA in less than 7 Days

If you have been following me on Twitter, you know that my time in LA was limited this week.  After a two week trip to Chicago, I had a Dallas and Minneapolis journey looming over me.  While I was home for a hot minute, I crammed in as much as possible.  Here are a few stops along the way:                                                

The red carpet premiere of a new web series, The Resolve.  Look for the footage in today's Web Files Buzz episode:  

                                                  

Then a two-day jaunt to San Diego for a fitness informercial shoot with my co-host, Jennifer Galardi.  I cannot disclose the product, but I am sure you will see me on a TV screen near you soon.

                       

Then a fantastic on-set visit with the cast and crew of Olga Kay's Circus.  This will also be a part of The Web Files Buzz.  The set was unbelievable!

                                          

While I was there, the tables were turned on me as Woody Tondorf of Elevator interviewed me about our visit.  Dueling microphones, but mine was bigger!

Then off to interview Taryn Southern for an upcoming episode.  I thought I had a busy schedule, but this talented producer/writer/actress/host has some exciting projects coming your way!

I have no idea what is happening in this picture, but I love the action of it all.  On the red carpet with the cast and creator of A Good Knight's Quest......Craig Frank, Brett Register, and Charlie Bodin. This episode is coming your way next week.  (Photo courtesy of Mark Burmeister)
                                             

Well, that's all I've got.  Phew.  I wish every week in LA was that much fun.  Don't worry, LA, I will be back for a fun filled 3 days mid-month.  Yep, 3 days.

Behind the Scenes of Elevator

Okay, there are a lot of you out there who are jealous that I got to stand in the Elevator.  Who knew the set was the source of much envy?  I do appreciate the comments and the emails though.  If you are really interested in how the Elevator is created, make sure to watch until after the credits run.  You will see us break down the mystery of the Elevator.  In fact, we are starting leave some of the really fun footage to the wee end, so make it a habit to watch every last second.  Anyway, Woody Tondorf, Genevieve Jones, and Ben Pace entertained me throughout this entire episode.  I am not sure I got a word in edgewise, so Sandra and Perry Payne worked miracles to make the interview as coherent as possible.  You can tell they all have great chemistry and truly enjoy each other's company.  That is why Elevator works.  

                                

I personally had a blast since Genevieve and Woody are both Bostonians.  I always think that there aren't many New Englanders living on the West Coast, but I continually run into my NE peeps in the web series world.  We left Ben Pace out of a couple of conversations reminiscing about all that is Boston, but we still love him regardless of his geographic upbringing.  Woody also attended one of the rival prep schools in the area, but I will forgive him because our hockey team was better.  So, I had lots of hometown connections on this shoot. 

                                    

What you didn't see in this episode was the mini-Elevator show we did on the fly. The problem was, I was in it.  While I am fine at hosting, any sort of acting or improvisation results in failure of epic proportions.  We tried several takes, but I don't think it ever reached the level of funny that is required in Elevator.  So, I am very happy that footage made it to the cutting room floor.

                                             

Given the success of the show, I think we also dropped the bomb on a lot of people that this will be Elevator's last season.  We were aware of some of the changes going on behind the scenes, but we didn't address it too much during the interview.  Sandra and I talked about doing a post script to the episode, but I think the article, written by NewTeeVee's Liz Shannon Miller, stands as the best epilogue to our feature.  Have no fear though, after 86,000 subscribers, 200+ episodes, and 48 million views, I think we will see more of Woody and crew in the future.  In fact, I expect a Web Files invite to the 24 hour marathon shoot of the final season of Elevator.  While I won't be writing or acting in the show, I sure can do press coverage.  

Finally, if you haven't seen our episode of Elevator, click here: Elevator  

Coming up on Wednesday, our second episode of The Web Files Buzz featuring an on-set visit with Olga Kay's Circus and the red carpet coverage of The Resolve premiere.  

Photos 2 and 4 courtesy of Ben Pace.

Red Carpet Interviews...Some DOs and DON'Ts

Okay, Streamys time is upon us and the spotlight is on web series, actors, and all of the talented people behind the scenes.  It is an exciting time and I know that getting publicity for your show is an integral part of finding new viewers or connecting with your current fans.  So, I hope all of you who wake up to a Streamy nomination get ready for a thrilling time in your career, but prepare yourself for the round of media that is to follow.  Do yourself and your show a favor, mentally prepare for the red carpet. Here are a couple of things I have noticed recently on the red carpet, a few bad habits, and some things to point out.  At The Web Files, we want to showcase you and your show in the best light possible:

1.  Talk to the reporter.  Don't talk into the camera.  It is a conversation between two people.  Trust that the cameraman is focusing in on you and he will get the shot.  If you look directly into the camera while being interviewed, it makes you look a bit crazy because you are ignoring the person asking you the questions. (Now, you can casually glance at the camera to include the audience, but don't get stuck in that lens.)

2.  Don't EVER, EVER, EVER, hijack someone else's interview.  I had this happen on Monday night at a web series premiere and it made the actor look like a big, old jackass. I was interviewing the creator of the show....it's his big night, his big moment, and his chance to shine.  The actor comes stumbling into the shot, puts his arm around the creator, and expects me to start interviewing him.  Sorry, nope, no way.  The creator hired YOU, he wrote a part for YOU, he directed YOU.  Without him, you wouldn't be on this red carpet.  Show respect.  Let everyone have their moment in the spotlight.  Trust me, you will have your turn, but if you jump into my shot....forget about it.

3.  Finally, sound bites.  During a sit down interview with The Web Files, I want more in depth answers.  On the red carpet, I want sound bites.  A reporter from any show, whether it is a marquee entertainment show like ET, Access Hollywood, or E!, or a little one like The Web Files, is looking for the funny, off the cuff, short quips.  If I asked you to tell me about your show, do it in less than 20 words.  A 2 minute explanation usually makes your clip unusable because red carpet footage is edited in a faster paced rhythm.  If you want to watch successful interviews in 30 seconds or less, take a look at the clips from the Whatever Works premiere from June 2009 for Focus Hollywood:  See Larry David, Peter Fonda, Evan Rachel Wood, Patricia Clarkson, and John Lithgow all giving great little moments in an extremely short period of time.  They are true masters at dealing with red carpet reporters when we only were allowed to ask them one question each that night.

I hope that some of these tips are useful to you and your cast.  I am happy to offer up a few more helpful hints as we get closer to April 11th, 2010, so feel free to fire away with questions or suggestions on this topic in the section below (Anonymous posts are okay).  I can address them in another post soon.   See you at the Streamys red carpet!

PS  All of the photos posted are examples of GOOD red carpet interviews, so don't start any gossip that I think you stink on the red carpet.  xo kb

Behind the Scenes of Epic Fu

I was really looking forward to shooting this episode because Zadi Diaz and Steve Woolf were the winners of last year's Streamy Award for "Best Hosted Web Series".  Their journey to the top has been an interesting ride and one that web series creators need to pay attention to.  While they have had amazing success with production deals at Next New Networks and Revision3, they were not immune to the economic downturn.  They currently find themselves on their own as they grow Epic Fu as a brand.  The independence allows them the freedom to try new ideas and allow the interactivity of the show rise to a new level.  While they are continuing their focus on film and music, watch as they grow over the next year or so.  Their longevity in the web space is something that I admire and Epic Fu is one of the shows that has set a high standard in the Hosted Web Series world.  

                                  

We shot in their downtown loft which serves as the new backdrop to the show.  The first thing I noticed was Steve Woolf's artwork.  His incredible pieces line the walls and add the perfect compliment to their decor.  I don't know if he sells his work, but it's worth checking into it if you are looking for unique and significant pieces in your home.  Steve and Zadi were such a treat to interview.  They are smart, kind, and really thoughtful about their place in the web space.  The interactive aspect of their show, Mix, is a place where hardcore fans interact about the show, new music, pop culture, and even debate with Steve and Zadi.  

                              

I love that Steve took all of these behind the scenes photos because you get a great look at our crew.  They sometimes like to hide from the camera, but they are crucial to making The Web Files the show that it is.  You get some glimpses of makeup artist, Melissa Anchondo, our PA/Renaissance Woman, Jenn Bobiwash, and DP/Editor, Perry Payne.  Also joining us for the first time was stylist, Katelin Flanigan, who dressed me from head to toe for the episode. She is a great additional to the team because no one is a bigger fashionista!  So, if you see that I am dressing better in upcoming episodes, thank Katelin.  (And we will get her on set photo soon.  She's a beautiful, statuesque blonde, you will love her!)

                                  

Finally, a kind shout out to Miss Casey McKinnon for putting us in touch with Zadi and Steve.  Without suggestions, connections, and feedback, we would not have access to some of the shows we interview.  So, please keep the dialogue and comments coming.  You can always leave a comment here or visit me on Twitter .  

If you missed the episode, check it out here: Epic Fu

Later today, a new episode of The Web Files with Woody Tondorf, Ben Pace, and Genevieve Jones of Elevator. 

Behind the scenes photos courtesy of Steve Woolf.

Welcome to Chicago!

Well, here we are, a little over halfway through the season and at the toughest show on the circuit.  Now, don't get me wrong, Chicago is a fantastic city, but we are here at the toughest time of the year:  everyone is exhausted from back to back cities, we are at the height of flu and cold season, the weather is cold, and this is the show that has the highest attendance across the U.S.  Yet, this show offers more excitement that even NAIAS cannot match.  

We have amazing guests who stop by our show like Scotty Van Hawk of Four Feathers Racing who is one of the Top 5 AMA Pro Racers in the U.S.  He spent last weekend signing autographs for fans after his interview on the show where he revealed he has broken 84 bones in a sport where speeds can top 197 MPH.  Wow. 

And a three year guest to our show, Ramblin' Ray from US 99 Chicago.  I really enjoy Ray's visits, he is never at a loss for words and oh boy, he tells it like it is.  He has a partnership with Toyota that includes a Tundra that he loves to kick up to 110 MPH. Shhhh, don't tell Toyota.  Check out his website and photos from past Toyota Live visits: Ray's Tundra. 

This was our first attempt at a photo on Valentine's Day. Was it the camera or was it the champagne?

                                              

Our second attempt worked out much better!  My favorite friends from the Mitsubishi team. Yes, we do hang out with other manufacturers.

                                              

The larger shows also offer a glimpse of the show on the large screen.  Here I am looming over the

FT-CH turntable:

                                          

The crowds were in full force over the 1st weekend of the Chicago Auto Show:

                               

Other fun guest included an annual visit from members of the Chicago Bears:  Robbie Gould and Hunter Hillenmeyer. I have to say I was a fan of Robbie after interviewing him.  He's pretty charming. 

The other reason I love this show?  My little cousin.  Isn't she magical?  

                                

Yep, a nap backstage and a photo kindly taken by my co-host, Matthew Troyer.  Not my best look, but it sure sums up the week so far:  Lots of fun, but lots of work!