Inside the New York City Film Race

I received an invite from my friend Vanessa Kate-she had just completed a 24 hour run (a few days ago) for "The NYC Film Race 2009."

Here's the break-down: "Over 60 teams of filmmakers competed in the NYC Film Race 2009 this past weekend.  The teams were challenged to produce, write, shoot and edit an original short film in just 24 hours based on the following surprise assignment:

Theme: Breaking the Rule(s)

Surprise Element: Action - Clinking Glasses"

Whew!  Can you imagine completing a whole short film in just 24 hours?  I was curious to see what the result would be and who the dynamic teams consisted of...plus, I could learn a little something from a team of filmmakers who are literally "working under the gun"

I decided to trek to NYU to be part of the viewing audience.  Vanessa served as the line producer with director RJ Harper-whom I met at a previous film engagement...many months prior.  Their film "Class M" confronted the issues of child abduction.  A wonderful, yet thought provoking story that made you grab your heart when the little boy (who only wants a balloon) is taken and passed like a baton.

I thought I'd never make it, simply because it was a last minute decision and the NYC train system on the week-ends is TERRIBLE!!!  I was in my very own race to get there, meet publicist Emily Grace for a press ticket and get a seat. When I arrived, Vanessa informed me it was full...but oh well, we walked past the ticket folks and voila! I was in! Settled in my seat and part of the race, watching a slew of 4 minute films. 

Some were great.  Some were bad.  Some were just done for...fun.

After choosing my three faves (Gang Cycle, Birchwood and YES Class M) we walked a few Aves over to a local sports bar where they would announce the 3 winners--who'd compete against winners across the country, however, it was too crowded considering "March Madness" was going on...so the group headed over to City Crab. 

What a beautiful night in New York for a walk! 10 blocks up and about 20 of us were ready to grub! I've never been to City Crab and I discovered that it's my new favorite place.  Who knew establishments had Happy Hour on week-ends!!!  Not just off the drinks, but appetizers as well.  I opted for the lobster mac-n-cheese and fried oysters over spinach YUM!

However, the best part was connecting with Mr. Wexler who is a screenwriter and former comic writer for the likes of Rodney Dangerfield, Johnny Carson and so many others...it was such a joy to listen to his fascinating life. You'll never guess who his Uncle-in-Law was and I'm not going to tell you! But wow...he is beyond a classic.

By 1 AM I realized how much fun we were having, but it was time to head back to Brooklyn.  One Yellow Taxi later and over the Manhattan Bridge I was back on my quiet block. For more info on film racing in your city: www.filmracing.com

Until Next Time,

See You in the City!  

Dominga~