Kickin' It With the Fellas

I auditioned for Blue Tail Fly, the next film from John Fuess, the producer of Mail Call. Of course, I met people I knew: Morris Chism (The Tank), Jerry Kimble (Act One), Elena LaRue, and Lauren Shepard (Mail Call, Delusions). I also talked to this guy who is going to be in A Cop, A Snitch, and a Stripper Named Shane. I met him at the premiere of my Rod Pitts' movie (www.pittstopproductions.com). We talked about movies and the business, and later Morris, Jerry, and myself chatted about people who won't just see a movie because they're cool with you and other things. Of course, I got joked on for being in every indpendent film (again, not true), but it was cool. It loks like I'll either be a hodlum (again), or a teacher. Of course, my primary commitment is to Cowboy Up and Curbside Cofessions. Everything else is provided I can find time on "off days". It looks like it's going to be another summer of "hustling". Be easy, readers.

There's So Many People: The Weekend Round-Up

Friday:

I went to a birthday party for Tactix, a local rapper. He is a member of Conscious Physics, Poisonous Dialects (www.myspace.com/poisondie), and king otis (www.myspace.com/kingotis).
All of those acts performed, as well as two members of Iron Mic Coaliton (www.ironmic.net). Quinn, who is also half of Fyte Club (www.myspace.com/fyteclub), and Jason"Da Hater" Harris, who is solo but is formerly of Kontrast (www.myspace.com/kontrastonline). Seance, a highly talented rapper from New York, also did a few songs. Afterwards, Jason Harris, Dj Shemeq, and myself decided to meet up at The Complex and peep out the end of their reggae night. The acts were Batch, Attitude and the Zioners. The way people were jumping around, it was similar to a COGIC church service (I've witnessed many). I also ran into upcoming actress Tiffany Pemberton (Delusions, Slow Down You're Dating Too Fast). She told me that she was just at home for this week and that she is still involved with a tour for Kool cigarettes featuring several musical acts. After she finishes the tour, she said that she's moving back to Oklahoma and then on to LA to try her hand at the acting game. I will miss her, but I hope she makes it.

After that, Jason, Shemeq, and I decided to go to CK's with two of Jason's friends that were at the reggae night: Latonya and Keri. Very beautiful women, but I felt like the "fifth wheel", literally. I think both of them had boyfriends anyway. After that, I called it a night.

Saturday:

Had a slow start after last night's activities. Ran around the city for a minute, hollered at Rod (www.pittsopproductions.com) Pitts. He informed me that my scene wouldn't be shot this week, but definitely next week. He said he's gonna buy me a "cake" for being on point. It better be a chocolate cake, man! Next, I rolled down to Africa in April. My buddy Paul West and his band GRIP were supposed to be backing up local singer Candy Girl. The memphis rappers hogged the stage and they never got on. They used foul language with children present. I've done that before (to my shame), but not on stage!!! Also, Dr. David Acey, founder of Africa in April, presented a plaque to Three Six Mafia. Let's see: At a festival honoring Sierra Leone, a tenured professor at the University of Memphis dressed in traditional African garb, honors Three Six Mafia for getting an Oscar for a song about pimping. Yeah, that didn't feel weird. After realizing that Candy Girl wasn't going to perform, Paul's girlfriend Denna Greer (What Goes Around), my boy Terrance, and his girlfriend waited on Paul so we could plan from there. Afterwards, Denna, Paul, Wanda, her friend, Terrance and his girl, and I think his girlfriend's sister ate at On the Border on Poplar. Next, we saw The Sentinel. Michael Douglas and Kiefer Sutherland were Secret Service Agents at odds over foiling a plot to kill the President. Eva Longoria (Desperate Housewives) was a rookie in the Secret Service. She looked cute. I was tripping out over the President and First Lady. David Rashe and Kim Basinger. Kim Basinger and the guy who played Sledge Hammer on TV. The 80s child in me geeked out, but the plot was weak. But, once again, Kim Basinger and Eva Longoria were beautiful.

Sunday:

Bryan Newcomb (Mail Call, Just the Two of Us), Paul Briggs, and myself went to Wal-Mart, the hip-hop clothing stores on American Way, and then we went downtown to see GRIP take the stage at Africa in April(they actually performed this time). The first few acts were...okay. There was a gospel act, and they had good energy, but the lead singer hollered her words into a very crude sound system. It hurt my eardrums! Next was One Love, a fortysomething rapper. He dressed age apppropriate, but his first song, "What's Going On"(not the Marvin Gaye song) was okay. His second song, "Soul Food", was better. "Soul Food" was about the Bible. Next, GRIP finally performed. Candy Girl, Thomas Spurlock, and Syreeta were the vocalists. They were awesome, and so was the band. Some members were a little bit loud, but it was decent. Afterwards, we went over my buddy Shomari's house and watched the last bit of a wrestling pay-per-view. Another crazy weekend comes to an end.

Today, I will audition for Blue Tail Fly, the next independent feature from John Fuess, producer
of Mail Call (yes I'm in that movie as well...leave me alone). It's a cold read, but it should be fun. My hustle continues. Be easy, readers.

Plan C

Okay, I call my film mentor Rod Pitts (www.pittstopproductions.com) and ask him am i rehearsing my scene for Spin Cycle. I really hope I shoot it this week, so I can cut off my mini-fro and get my look right for Curbside Confessions..please, God. Rod says that practice is a no-go, but we may practice on Saturday night. Okay, so then I say, "Hey, Markus! You haven't attended acting class at Red West's house in a while! Time to make your comeback!" I go out there only to find that class has been canceled. The third time proved to be the charm. I attended the Speakeasy on 483 S. Huling...that's downtown, ya'll. Ekundayo, a poet/actor who was in Dollars and Signs along with me hosts the Speakeasy. Madeleine Rogers, stage actress and cast member of the upcoming A Cop, A Snitch, and a Stripper Named Shane, was in attendance. My good friend Paul Briggs also arrived later. The Speakeasy is a performance venue. Tonight, spoken-word artist Ramp performed, along with a guitarist (didn't catch his name) and comedian Lomax. I had seen Ramp at poetry spots before. He is a Christian, but he doesn't come off as preachy. He has a very down-to-earth, personable style. R.A.M.P. stands for Real Amazing Mind-Blowing Poet. His e-mail is http://ramp.atspace.com. He had a cool reggae style poem called Outtelectual. He was just real cool and humorous. I bought his CD "Journey of a Poet". I also exchanged info with him and Ekundayo. Ekundayo is founding a theater company named Hattiloo. They will be performing plays that speak more to the African-American experience. I had fun, I networked, it was a win-win. I may have to get down with Hattiloo. Last night, I saw people doing arts for the love. Lately, even though I haven't been getting paid, I feel like commerce was taking the place of art as my main goal. It felt good to hear stuff that I felt came from an honest place. I need to start writing poetry again. I've gotten so caught up in acting, my other skills have been neglected. I must strike a balance between all my gifts. Be easy, readers.

It's Premiere Season

Last night, I went to the premiere of Across the River, written and directed by U of M Graduate Student John Harvey. It was a short film, but very action packed. Local radio personality/former kiddie show host(Joe Cool) Dennis Phillipi and his broadcast partner Ric Chetter were the Grim Reaper and the Soul Eater. The plot revolves around a young man who has just died and bargains with the Grim Reaper to allow him to stay on Eartht to tie up some loose ends. If a soul remains earthbound for too long, the Soul Eaters begin to hunt them down. It was cool to see broadcast partners as mortal enemies..nice touch, John! Fellow actor/blogger Jon "Sparky" Sparks has a role as the father of the recently dead character. It was a very dramatic scene. I was impressed. Harvey did a lot with a little. Of course, that seems to be the motto with independent filmmaking. Yet another impressive film, considering the fact that it was made with no money. Hopefully, Hollywood will start noticing when several Memphis area feature films become the talk of film festivals nationwide. Maybe then our state legislature will vote to give tax breaks and incentives to production companies wishing to film in the state of Tennessee. This independent film actor certainly hopes so. Be easy, readers

Shout Outs and Promotion

Shout out to Sarah Ewell for getting a blog:http://sarahewell.blogspot.com/. I hope she updates her blog more than some of my other actors (Morris Chism, Arnita Williams, Joseph Smith I see you).

Also, check out the Pittstop Productions film that won at the inaugural Lil' Film Fest, Imagine (I'm the tall guy in the mask): http://www.livefrommemphis.com/watch/films/media/Imagine

Also, check out the new page for Spin Cycle (including stills) on the Pittstop Prodcuctions website: http://www.pittstopproductions.com/spincycle2.html

They Should've Never Given Me an Extra Day Off:Weekend Wrap-up

Thursday:
I rehearsed my scenes for Spin Cycle along with Nataki Caver and Derrick Engleberg, who have the lead roles of Emma and Alex. Director/Big Dog Filmmaker Rod Pitts was also there. I rehearsed my Film Geek scene in the hopes of filming it on Sunday. It didn't happen, due to miscommunication, and I am unable to get a decent haircut for another week. I love filmmaking!

Friday:
My mom had a belated birthday lunch with my brother. I popped in on that. Hey, it was a free meal....I mean, a perfect opportunity to spend quality time with my family who I love dearly. From there, I rolled out to Somerville, Tennesse and picked up my cousin Anwar. We saw Take the Lead at the Malco theatre in Collierville. Yes, it was cheesy and predictable. But, doggone it, I like the movies where the underdog comes out on top! Plus, there were some cute actresses playing high schoolers that had to be in their mid-20s. And I was glad to see Marcus T. Paulk still working (http://imdb.com/name/nm0667207/). He was the little brother on Moesha. Plus, Antonio Banderas is just cool, man. He's Zorro!

Later, after dropping Anwar off at his parents' house, I cruised to the University of Memphis area, picked up the homeboy Bryan Newcomb (Mail Call, Just the Two of Us), and we rolled out to the Muvico Theatre at Peabody Place and we saw Scary Movie 4. I liked the cameos of Shaq and Dr. Phil, and they parodied Million Dollar Baby, Saw, War of the Worlds, Brokeback Mountain, The Village, and The Grudge. I liked it! Hey, I don't always want Citizen Cane or Bridge on the River Kwai. Sometimes I like simple and entertaining.

Saturday:
I assisted Rod on Spin Cycle. We shot scenes with Derrick and Taki from about noon until almost 8 PM. Derrick's a bad influence on me, but he keeps the mood light. We shot mainly around the U of M and at a nearby McDonald's. I didn't see those scenes because I was lugging supplies to the next location. PAs and sound men are unsung heroes, kinda like Lee Majors in The Fall Guy. I'm the unknown soundman that made Pittstop Productions such a star...okay, I'm getting carried away. It's a good thing I act, too. I'll get a little shine off of this production, hopefully.

Sunday:

I rolled around, ran some errands, and that night I went to the KRS-One hip-hop show. My good friends the Iron Mic Coalition and Rogue Squadron opened for him. The Rogue Squadron includes some members of IMC (www.ironmiccoaliton.net), members of Poisonous Dialects (www.myspace.com/poisondie), IMC's Fathom 9 (www.myspace.com/fathom9thebrotherhoodofdoom ), Ptah Maximus( whose muic can be heard at www.myspace.com/ptahmaximus), and others. They put on a good show. Next, the Iron Mic Coaliton brought down the house. They all came out with dress shirts and ties in secret identity mode, then opened their shirts to reveal different superhero t-shirts. Fathom 9 was Batman. Daian aka Darelic was Spider-Man (my favorite). They rocked. Then, there was a lengthy intermission before KRS-One came on. KRS-One gave us old-school hip-hop at its finest. His hypeman, S-5, also rhymed. The crowd was hype. KRS-One did a lot of freestyling (making up rhymes on the spot) and he also told people to call home on their cell phones so he could leave a message. One guy actually called his mom and KRS-One had a rhyming conversation with her. That was just cool! Afterwards, I ate at Perkins with some of the IMC and this other MC who performed, Cosmo. He's a local cat that raps and sings. Cosmo has an album called Blue that's on cdbaby.com. He's also at www.myspace.com/cosmomusic. I was proud of my people, man. I'm tired, but it was worth it!

Today, I plan on seeing the 7 PM screening of Across the River, directed by UofM grad student John Harvey. I auditioned for it, but was unsuccessful in securing a role. I still plan to support. I do believe that fellow blogmaster Jon "Sparky" Sparks is in the film. Hey, it's not always about me...just 91% of the time. Be easy, readers.

Let's Karaoke Again!

I received the summons around 9:30 from my good buddy Forrest Pruett (Forty Shades of Blue, Almost Made). I rolled out to Moffats, where I met up with Forrest, and later Joseph Smith (Delusions, Arrogant Dead People) and Shaun Green (Divine Manipulations of the Threads). Josephs' family was there, too. They were cool people. Forrest performed "If You Could Only See", a Nickelback song that I forget the title too, and Bon Jovi's "You Give Love a Bad Name". Forrest kept doing the laugh associated with his character from Divine, Stone Free Joey. The man is just hilarious! My first number was the classic "Nuttin' But a G Thang" with Joe. Once again, we rocked the house! Then, I followed with All 4 One's "I Swear". I was a little "pitchy", but I stuck it out. I finished with Huey Lewis and the News' "Heart of Rock and Roll". Joe performed a lot of Elvis songs (shocker!) and he dueted on Evnescense's "Bring Me To Life" with one of his relatives. It was cool. We chilled out and conversated for a minute outside. This guy named Santiago recognized Joe and Forrest from Divine. I chimed in that I was in the film, but I don't think he remembered me. It's okay. I'll get over it. One tear! It was a cool evening, and the first time that I'd rocked the stage with Joe in a minute. Good times.

I don't really have a clear plan for today, but it will probably involve me cutting up and acting a fool at some point. Some things are a given. Be easy, readers.

Plug Time!!!

Veteran hip-hop artist KRS-One will be performing in Memphis on April 16, 2006 at the Complex. The opening act will be Memphis-area hip hop collective The Iron Mic Coalition (www.ironmic.net) The show starts at 8 PM. The cost of admission is $15.00/advance, $18.00/atthe door. For more info, please visit chikuurban@hotmail.com

The premiere of "Across the River" by U of M graduate student John Harvey is coming up on April 17th at Studio on the Square. There will be two showings, one at 7 p.m. and another at 8 p.m.Go to the Web site and see the trailer: it's a tight thriller that's been done with great skill by this young, talented filmmaker. In the cast are Dennis 'Poor & Hungry' Phillippi and Ric Chetter, the on-air talent of Rock 103's Dennis&Ric in the afternoons and the terrific Sunday show "The Great Unsigned." They're great as radio partners and as living-dead antagonists in "Across the River." Email Harvey at acrosstherivermovie@hotmail.com to reserve seats.
(Disclaimer: I am not in this film, but cool people like Jon Sparks and Dennis Phillipi are, and they rock, so go see it!)

Revised Audition Schedule for "Tricks"

Tricks, an independent film production written and directed by DeAara Lewis and focusing on the story of five prostitutes, will have auditions on Saturday, April 29 and Sunday, April 30 at Southwest Tennesee College Community Theatre, on Manassas between Linden and Union Avenue. The new audition time is from 12 PM (noon) to 4 PM.

Here is a brief description of Tricks:

Tricks is an urban tale of five prostitutes, their enterprising madam and the personal struggles of each to not only survive, but thrive in a business that is deemed immoral and taboo.

Character Breakdown:

1. Natalie – late twenties, early thirties. An attractive, but vindictive woman. She knows how to pull a man. Other “girls” are intimidated by her and she uses this to her advantage.

2. Rita – late twenties, early thirties. An attractive and shapley woman, but is somewhat rundown. She’s naïve when it comes to men and as a result, constantly falls in and out love with her clients.

3. Devin (Michelle’s boyfriend) – tall man in his late twenties, early thirties; very attractive; charming. He is educated and very forward, but also has a soft side.

4. Mr. Davis – an older man in his late forties, early fifties. No particular height or look. Comical character who loves women

5. Tito – a young man in his mid twenties, with an offbeat look. He is helplessly in love with Jean.

6. Tyson – a young and upcoming singer. Very attractive, mid twenties.

7. Tommy – timid man in his mid thirties; is struggling with wanting to have an affair.

8. Allen (Rita's boyfriend) – an attractive man, late twenties, early thirties. He is a borderline asshole.

9. Paul – an attractive, gay man.

10. Darnell (Devin’s friend) – a “fraternity” type. Cute, loves to party and loves women, can be a real asshole if permitted.

11. Keith – (Devin’s friend) – a “nerd,” but still has some “coolness” to him. No particular look (open).

12. James (Donna’s ex-husband) – attractive man. He was hurt deeply and has worked hard to move on even though there are questions he still longs the answers to.

13. Freddie (Tina estranged husband) – an attractive man in his late twenties, early thirties; very abusive, controlling and angry.

14. Sebastian Crump – Older man, stocky, average height. Chief of Police; a real asshole; has hated Donna for years and is out to seek revenge on Donna.

Tricks Auditions

4/29 - Saturday
4/30 - Sunday

12:00PM-4:00PM

Southwest Community College
Theatre

Manassas between Linden & Union Avenue

RIP: June Pointer

The youngest Pointer Sister, June Pointer, died today. I grew up listening to them, so I had to post this link:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20060412/ap_en_mu/obit_pointer

Another talented person gone to sing in the celestial choir.

"Shh! Don't Tell Them I'm Filming!"

On Tuesday, I worked a half-day at work (Mom, I had the time saved up..don't fuss). I left at 1 PM. My coworker Serbrina Richmond was having a farewell party. She's taking a GOOD (non-box slinging) job at Fed Ex. I wish her well. I huhg out, went to Bookstar and got a Blackberry Green Tea Frappucino from Starbucks...MMM, frappucino! (Said in Homer Simpson voice) I picked up my coconspirator(partner in crime is so retro)Bryan Newcomb and we drove to Andy's Tavern on Jackson Avenue to shoot my scene for the movie Eat. Yes, I'm shooting in the hood again. Bryan and I tried to shoot a little footage for King Indie, the long-in-the-works documentary about yours truly. He shot footage of me before I shot the scene, and we shot a little footage of me afterwards. We try not to shoot during filming, and I was not able to pull anybody to the side because there was very little downting during the filming. I'll try to work on that, because who really wants to see a film that's just me talking about me? I'd love it, but nobody else would. Once I got on set, I ran into some old friends: Forrest Pruett (Delusions, Almost Made), Location scout extraordinaire David Merrill (Walk the Line, Black Snake Moan), cast member Sarah Ewell (Shutter, Mail Call), Director of Photography Brandon Hutchison (Rock and a Hard Place, director:Dollars and Signs), and of course, directors/founeders of Oddly Buoyant Productions, Chris McCoy and Laura Hocking. Forrest gave me a nice compliment and it was filmed. Thank you, Mr. Pruett. You are a gentleman and a scholar. My scene was a litte tricky, and both me and the actor Keith(who was playing the character Keith) had problems with it. We stuck it out, though, and eventually, we got coverage. By the time I was leaving, actress/singer Amy Lavere was coming in to do her scene. I normally work with boom mics and no makeup. Imagine my surprise to have makeup and to actually have a mic attached to my clothes. I barely noticed it. I just hope I make the cut. Chris said that I nailed the scene. I certainly hope so.

The rest of my day was random junk: We went to Target, where I purchased another Ric Flair figure for the collection (Yay!), the mall, and finally to Perkins. I had some kinda fish called Tilapia. Nice! I am trying to chill out a little bit after the hectic schedule of "Markus Month". I should FINALLY shoot my long-delayed scene for the next Pittstop Productions (www.pittstopproductions.com) feature, Spin Cycle. I am reprising my Film Geek character from What Goes Around. I got a lot of laughs, but Rod wants me to tone it down some. It should still be cool. Be easy, readers.

"I'm the Dull One with no Booze or Smokes:" The Infamous Weekend Wrap-Up

Saturday:
I had to work on Saturday (booo!), then I went home, had an audition for "A Cop, A Snitch, and a Stripper Named Shane". Well, let's just say that I'm glad the director/star Vincent Moore has seen my other work, like What Goes Around and Just the Two of Us. I do not feel good about that audition. Hopefully, I can still snag a small role. Later, I got a haircut, then I went to the library and surfed the net until Rod Pitts (director: Imagine, What Goes Around) got off work. We went to Yum's and had planned to film something for Spin Cycle, his latest feature. The shoot fell through, so I went to director Anthony Howald's (Divine Manipulation of the Threads) house for a wrap party for Divine. Many of the cast and crew were there, including producer Brad Alsobrook, actor/writer Bevan B. Bell (Delusions, Cowboy's Silver Lining), Forrest Pruett (Delusions, Forty Shades of Blue), Joseph B. Smith (Delusions, Arrogant Dead People), Arnold Edwards II (director:PA Pretender, Curbside Confessions), Dayna Hinkle, Jon Sparks (Delusions, Just the Two of Us), Christine Connolly, Arnita Howald, Freddy Mitchell(Almost Made), Shaun Green, and Kelly Green. It was cool. We watched parts of Titanic and Seed of Chucky. We tripped out, talked movies, and talked about our favorite parts of the film. Bevan told me that I should be drinking. I didn't feel like giving him the whole "I grew up in a devout Christian household and I have high blood pressure and high cholesterol and I don't want to risk it". If any body reads this, pass along that info. Around 1 AM or so, the party began to disband.

Sunday:
I called good ol' Rod Pitts and he told me that we will resume filming next week. Bryan Newcomb (Mail Call, Just the Two of Us) called me and we hung out. We went to Border's, then we went to the hip-hop clothing stores on American Way. We struck gold at Marty's. I found two cool t-shirts for $3.oo, and a cool track jacket for $5.00. You know I gots to stay fresh! Bryan won the discount rack batte with a very cool South Pole (tm) shirt. We then rolled out to Bartlett, went to Rack Room Shoes, dined at Dixie Cafe, and watched Freedomland. It was a good movie, I was just sleepy. Samuel Jackson and Julianne Moore kicked butt, as did Aunjanue Ellis (Ray, Men of Honor) and Anthony Mackie (Manchurian Candidate, Eight Mile). Honestly, I was just glad to see a film that did not have me in it. I'm a little tired of watching me for a minute. It can be nerve-wracking sometimes.

Tonight, after work, I have to study for my role in Eat. I am playing Andy, the Software developer (yes, another geek role), and I want to make the most of my one scene. When you've got one scene, you don't have a lot of time to make a good impression. Hopefully, my performance will be memorable. Be easy, readers.

Reality Check

First of all, I hate working on Saturdays. Second of all, I didn't do squat yesterday, so I had time to reflect on Markus Month. I mean, I guess I could consider it a blessing. Signing autographs is cool. The next day, my high came down. Oh, yeah, that's right, I still have a crummy day job and people in my face. I'm such a celebrity. I guess I needed that. What it comes down to is this: I am not a star. Yet. Sure, I talk noise, and I take pride in being one of the hardest-working actors in this town, but, honestly, it feels empty when I am back at my job. When I'm on stage, or watching myself, or chilling out after a good premiere, it feels so good. It's my drug. Then, when it's gone, my high comes down. People say I'm obsessive, people say I do too much. Hell, if you've thought that about me, you're not too far from the truth. But I feel like all a person has is faith, hopes, dreams. Those are the intangibles that cannot be physically taken from you. That's about it for me. Like I said, I thank God for my job and not being on the street, but I don't really care for it. Family life? Well, I've always been the weird one, the dreamer, or the overly moral one who spoils the fun. My cousins, even the ones younger than me, have kids. I don't, and I can't relate. I definitely can't relate to my uncles and aunts. They talk about old times and regular stuff. I kinda hate regular stuff. My crazy aspirations in entertainment don't hold much weight. Love life? Hell, what's that? My girl is the acting game, and she's flirtatious, temperamental, a tease, and a royal witch. But I stay there, because those brief moments of pleasure make me forget about all the bad times. At least for a minute. It's one of the few things that I enjoy that I can talk to a lot of people about. And also, as self-absorbed as this may sound, it validates me and keeps me from being ordinary. I just don't want to be ordinary with a 9 to 5. I mean no disrespect to those who are content with that, but I never wanted it. I just can't accept that that's all there is. Also, I don't want any more what-ifs. Even if I fall flat on my face, at least I won't wonder. I said all this to say that even though I've done good, I still haven't "arrived". I can count the number of times I've gotten paid for acting. I feel like even though I hustle, perhaps I need to hustle more. If I give up now, it would be like surrendering myself to a mundane existence. I can't do that. I want to be free of the day job existence more than anything. Even more than the whole wife and kids thing. I just want to be able to call some of my own shots and not wake up every day and just survive. I want to enjoy life. My mom always quotes TD Jakes and says, "The only thing you should look for from your job is a paycheck". She also says that everybody hates their jobs until payday. I just can't accept that. I refuse to accept that. I know I have God-given talents and abilities. I have to do something with them. Hopefully, I could also provide for my parents one day, hook my big brother up for always looking out for me and rescuing me from the hood, and make sure that my little cousins won't have to worry about college. The hustle isn't just for me, it's so that me and my people can benefit. So, until me and my people are rich...the struggle continues. Keep hustling. Be easy, readers.

4/6/06:The Birth of the Film Geek

Finally, the first film I ever made came out! What Goes Around had its premiere at Malco's Studio on the Square. It was cool. Shout out to cast members Patrick Henry, who played Talal, the male lead, and the others in attendance. Of course, my good friend Denna Greer, who played a Tammy, was there, as was Lucresha Yancey, who played Melissa. Lavita Brooks (Just the Two of Us, Divine Manipulation of the Threads) was great as a high school teacher, as was April Hale (Imagine, Survivor) as a high school flirt. Domino Maxamilian played TR, Talal's humorous, brutally honest best friend. Patrick's wife, Angela Henry, played one of Talal's flings. Extra special shout out to Patrick's wife because she is NINE months pregnant with what I pray will be a healthy baby girl. Of course, my film mentor/coach/guy who shot the freaking thing Rod Pitts was there, as was Keenon Nikita (Poor and Hungry, director/writer/star:Just the Two of Us). My girl Wanda and her roommate Valencia, and my boy Terrence and his girlfriend. Shout out to actor/writer/director DeAara Lewis of Drama Queen Entertainment. She completed one indie entitled The Forgotten Ones and Rod will be her Director of Photogrtaphy on Tricks, her next project. Shout out to Vincent Moore (Just the Two of Us, writer/actor/director: A Cop, a Snitch, and a Stripper named Shane) who was also in attendance, as was Crystal Johnson and Okwede Okoh, who played Sabrina. The writer, Nazeeh Majeed, had a cameo, as did Kim Skipper (Imagine, Just the Two of Us). It was just cool to be among the people and signing autographs and taking pictures afterward. It was a three year journey that had a lot of people drop out and had a lot of setbacks, in particular Rod's editing machine crashing right after he had finished editing it the first time. Rod had to start all over. That was tough. I felt bad for my buddy during that moment. We persevered, though. People really seemed to like my character of the Film Geek. It's funny how my first film has been my best role. Of all the directors I've worked with, Rod has known me the longest, and that shows in the dialogue that he gave me. Also, if you look close, I am an extra several times in the film.
I really wish my mom could've been there, but Rod says that he will show it again. Shout out to native Memphian Ennis Newman aka Fathom 9. Ennis is a hip-hop artist/poet/producer who conributed several tracks that made up the score, as well as producing the song over used over the closing credits, Scott Lynn's "No never" Scott Lynn is a rapper/college student that used to go to the U of M. You can check out more of his songs and beats at www.myspace.com/brosoundzguudx. Shout out to Iron Mic Coaliton (www.ironmic.net), whose song "B Boy Stance" was used in the movie. Music shouts also to Lynn Cardona, Chil Wil, Latoya Baker-Smith and Closed Kaption (www.closedkaption.com), and anybody else I may have left out. Also, shout outs to cast members who couldn't be there. Arnita Williams (www.arnitawilliams.com) did a fantastic job as the stripper (who never strips in the movie) Marquita. She's in California pursuing her acting dream. Lisa Miller, who plays Angela, is attending graduate school in England. Chris Brown, who plays Marie, is also in Hollywood, last I heard. I feel that I can speak for Rod when I say that we thank everyone who attended, everyone who acted in it, and everyone who contributed. Be on the lookout for Spin Cycle, the next Pittstop Production that's currently in production now. Pittstop Productions and Dog Day Entertainment are taking no prisoners...and wer'e not taking any naps, either! I've had four features, two shorts, and a two-day run of a play from March 14-April 6. I'm a little tired of seeing me! Time to get back on Spin Cycle tomorrow (hopefully), and film on Eat Tuesday. I'm good on premieres of movies I'm in until about July! Be easy, readers

Rehearsin' in the Backyard

Yesterday, I attended a rehearsal for the next Oddly Bouyant Productions feature, Eat. Chris Hocking and Laura McCoy are the founders of Oddly Buoyant Productions and produced the feature Automusik Can Do No Wrong. They are cool people. Sarah Ewell (Divine Manipulation of the Threads, Just the Two of Us) rehearsed her part, as well as indie film vet McTyere Parker and up and coming singer Amy LaVere. This guy named Keith was hilarious! He's basically playing himself...his character's name is Keith, and his adlibs are crazy. We rehearsed our scene about four times. Eat focuses on the lives of waiters and bartenders in three different restaurants. I play one of the patrons named Andy. I am a software developer who hates his job. Keith and I went through the scene about four times, finally earning the Chris McCoy seal of approval. I watched the others for minute, but I cut out to go eat. I was Hungary!!! (I also do a pretty good impersonation of Czechoslovakia...I'll stop with the bad jokes now). I feel good about my character. I film on Tuesday.

Today is the premiere of What Goes Around. My mom can't make it, but hopefully my friends and family (don't make me call out names, people) will support me. This was my very first film, so it always holds a special place in my heart. Rod Pitts is a great writer and director and an all around cool dude. I can't wait!

Plug Time!!!!

Divine Manipulation of the Threads" ends its run at Malco's Studio on the Square today, April 6 (two matinees and two evening shows each day). It's by Rusted Sun Productions ( http://www.rustedsunfilms.com/ ), starring Bevan Bell and directed by Anthony Howald.

I play a thug in this one.

Showtimes:1:20PM, 4:30PM, 7:35PM, 9:40 PM
Length: 93 minutes

The premiere screening of What Goes Around… will be shown Thursday, April 6 at 9 p.m. at the Malco Studio on the Square. Tickets will be $5.00

“What Goes Around…” is a romantic comedy that centers on Talal, a young man with commitment problems. After growing tired of his girlfriend’s worrisome ways, he gets the itch to see what else is out there. But after spending time with an attractive classmate (Angela), he soon realizes that everything that glitters isn’t gold.

The movie was filmed entirely in Memphis and was directed by local filmmaker Rod Pitts (the trailer is at www.pittstopproductions.com) and written by Nazeeh Majeed. A large cast of local talent appears in this feature-length film.

Cast:

Patrick Henry……………………Talal
Chris Brown………………………Marie
Lisa Miller…………………………Angela
Domino Maximillian……………TR
Markus Seaberry…………………The Film Geek
Arnita Williams……………………Marquita
Noel McGee…………………………Professor DePalma
Tatiana Hicks………………………June 2001
Okwede Okoh………………………Sabrina
Naseera Lewis………………………Shelia
Tylon Scott…..………………………Big T

Crew:

Written by: Nazeeh Majeed
Directed by: Rod Pitts
Produced by: Rod Pitts and Nazeeh Majeed
Edited by: Tennell Pitts
Casting by: Leah Bruce
Director of Photography: Rod Pitts
Music by : Ennis Newman and Rod Pitts
Line Producer: Grace Eweka and Arnita Williams

Countdown to What Goes Around Premiere: Today's the Day, Baby!!!!

Remember...When Markus Seaberry Is In Your Production, It's Not Just a Movie...It's a Movement!!!!

Oh, yeah, happy birthday to Chris McCoy. Don't party too hard, buddy...we got a movie to make!!! (Just kidding...kinda)

Pittstop Productions is in another Film Festival

Rod Pitts' short Survivor (featuring a cameo by me) was selected for the Ripon College Film Festival:

http://www.ripon.edu/students/Orgs/Cinemaniacs/2006.html

Ripon College is a Liberal Arts and Sciences College in Wisconsin. For more info about Survivor, go to www.pittstopproductions.com . Pittstop Productions-The Future of Filmmaking! We got 'em right where we want'em, Rod!!! Let's live these dreams, man.

"Tricks" Audition

Tricks is an urban tale of five prostitutes, their enterprising madam and the personal struggles of each to not only survive, but thrive in a business that is deemed immoral and taboo.

Character Breakdown:

1. Natalie – late twenties, early thirties. An attractive, but vindictive woman. She knows how to pull a man. Other “girls” are intimidated by her and she uses this to her advantage.

2. Rita – late twenties, early thirties. An attractive and shapley woman, but is somewhat rundown. She’s naïve when it comes to men and as a result, constantly falls in and out love with her clients.

3. Devin (Michelle’s boyfriend) – tall man in his late twenties, early thirties; very attractive; charming. He is educated and very forward, but also has a soft side.

4. Mr. Davis – an older man in his late forties, early fifties. No particular height or look. Comical character who loves women

5. Tito – a young man in his mid twenties, with an offbeat look. He is helplessly in love with Jean.

6. Tyson – a young and upcoming singer. Very attractive, mid twenties.

7. Tommy – timid man in his mid thirties; is struggling with wanting to have an affair.

8. Allen (Rita's boyfriend) – an attractive man, late twenties, early thirties. He is a borderline asshole.

9. Paul – an attractive, gay man.

10. Darnell (Devin’s friend) – a “fraternity” type. Cute, loves to party and loves women, can be a real asshole if permitted.

11. Keith – (Devin’s friend) – a “nerd,” but still has some “coolness” to him. No particular look (open).

12. James (Donna’s ex-husband) – attractive man. He was hurt deeply and has worked hard to move on even though there are questions he still longs the answers to.

13. Freddie (Tina estranged husband) – an attractive man in his late twenties, early thirties; very abusive, controlling and angry.

14. Sebastian Crump – Older man, stocky, average height. Chief of Police; a real asshole; has hated Donna for years and is out to seek revenge on Donna.


Tricks Auditions

4/29 - Saturday
4/30 - Sunday

2:00 - 4:00
Southwest Community College
Theatre
Manassas between Linden & Union Avenue

God Bless the Dead

Yesterday was the anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr's assassination in Memphis. Sometimes it seems as though my city can never shake the stigma of April 4, 1968. We built a National Civil Rights museum on the ground where his place of assassination, the Lorraine Motel, stood, but the weight still seems to be on our shoulders and this city. Perhaps this contributes to the spirit or apathy that I feel in my beloved city. Let us all try to remember his dream and make sure that it doesn't fade away.
Be easy, readers.

2nd Viewings

Monday, I watched another screening of Just the Two of Us, this time at Malco's Studio on the Square, or, as I like to call it, the Markus Studio on the Square(just kidding...kinda). Of course, the lead actor/director/writer Keenon Nikita(Poor and Hungry, Right Questions) was there, as was Director of Photography/coeditor Rod Pitts (director: Imagine, What Goes Around). In addition, cast members Travis Stone (Ray, Delusions), Sharon Bishop (21 Grams, Poor and Hungry), Jon Sparks (Delusions, Divine Manipulation of the Threads), Annette (don't know last name, sorry), and several relatives and friends. Shout out to line producer Anne Banks, Lavita's son DJ, who was rocking a nice Polo shirt( I respect his fresh), and an extra special shout out to Carole Rowland (Mail Call, Oz's Lion), who is an extra in Keenon's film. Jon Sparks' lovely wife and talented daughter Jackie were there. Jackie will have a role in Morgan Fox's new film Heart and Strings. Like father, like daughter, eh, Sparky? My good buddy Paul Briggs, Keenon's family, and the producer of Divine Manipulation, Brad Alsobrook. It was really cool to see him there. The film was edited even tighter and it was shorter and better. We all chilled out and posed for pictures afterward. It was a nice event. Keenon even called me by my alias, King Indie. You know it, baby!!! I believe a good time was had by all.

Last night, Bryan and I viewed Divine Manipulation; my second viewing, his first. Brad Alsobrook was there as well, spreading that nasty rumor that I'm in every film. I'm not in every film, just a MAJORITY of the films. There is a difference, people! We were joined by about ten other people. I was saddened...To my cast and crew, and people who actually care, let's get the word out! Let's make these last two days memorable! Let's fill those seats! Let me stop using exclamation points!!! Okay, I'm done.

Today, I am supposed to rehearse a scene for the next Oddly Buoyant Production, Eat. It'll be a short scene, a one day shoot. Another funny, geeky character, which seems to be my niche...for now. Read and adhere to the plugs following this sentence, and be easy, readers! (I had to get a few more exclamation points out of my system)

Plug Time!!!

"Divine Manipulation of the Threads" is running at Malco's Studio on the Square until April 6 (two matinees and two evening shows each day). It's by Rusted Sun Productions ( http://www.rustedsunfilms.com/ ), starring Bevan Bell and directed by Anthony Howald.

I play a thug in this one.

Showtimes:
1:20PM, 4:30PM, 7:35PM, 9:40 PM
Length: 93 minutes

April 6:

The premiere screening of What Goes Around… will be shown Thursday, April 6 at 9 p.m. at the Malco Studio on the Square. Tickets will be $5.00

“What Goes Around…” is a romantic comedy that centers on Talal, a young man with commitment problems. After growing tired of his girlfriend’s worrisome ways, he gets the itch to see what else is out there. But after spending time with an attractive classmate (Angela), he soon realizes that everything that glitters isn’t gold.

The movie was filmed entirely in Memphis and was directed by local filmmaker Rod Pitts (the trailer is at www.pittstopproductions.com) and written by Nazeeh Majeed. A large cast of local talent appears in this feature-length film.

Cast:

Patrick Henry……………………Talal
Chris Brown………………………Marie
Lisa Miller…………………………Angela
Domino Maximillian……………TR
Markus Seaberry…………………The Film Geek
Arnita Williams……………………Marquita
Noel McGee…………………………Professor DePalma
Tatiana Hicks………………………June 2001
Okwede Okoh………………………Sabrina
Naseera Lewis………………………Shelia
Tylon Scott…..………………………Big T

Crew:

Written by: Nazeeh Majeed
Directed by: Rod Pitts
Produced by: Rod Pitts and Nazeeh Majeed
Edited by: Tennell Pitts
Casting by: Leah Bruce
Director of Photography: Rod Pitts
Music by : Ennis Newman and Rod Pitts
Line Producer: Grace Eweka and Arnita Williams

Countdown to What Goes Around Premiere: 1 Day and Counting!!!

Remember...When Markus Seaberry is In Your Production, It's Not Just a Movie...It's a Movement!!

Sleep Is For Suckers: The Weekend Wrap-Up

Friday:
Finally, the first performance of Waltzing in Memphis. The crowd really seemed to enjoy it. I got a lot of laughs as Rickey Peete, especially when I turned from Rickey Peete into Guy Who Should Never Wear Costume Tights Man. My parents enjoyed it, but my mom was talking about she didn't know I could sing! I guess singing around the house doesn't count. My father enjoyed it, and so did my good buddy Paul Briggs. Bryan Newcomb (Mail Call, Just the Two of Us) also enjoyed it. He greeted me with the theme song from Robin Hood: Men in Tights, making reference to the black tights I wore. Har, har. Bryan should definitely take his act on the road. He should start in a place I like to call The Hell Out Of My Face...I'm kidding (kinda). Shout out to my parents, Paul Briggs, and Bryan Newcomb for supporting a brotha. We went back to a place called the Variety Club and we ate food and performed karaoke. I wowed them with a rendition of Garth Brooks' "Friends in Low Places". I knew it would rock the crowd. Then, I left and went downtown to support humorous rapper Muck Sticky (www.mucksticky.com). My good buddy/fellow Actors First affiliate Jon "Sparky" Sparks (www.jonwsparks.blogspot.com) was there shooting behind the scenes footage for the Muckster. I arrived in time to see Muck's act. It was weird, but kinda cool. His sister opened the show, and at one point, his mother, Mama Sticky, came out. She once referred to herself as a "Mother Mucker" when I had met her previously. That's cool, to have your mom on stage with you, especially considering that Muck's act is a little profane and talks a lot about hookups and marijuana. He has the fratboy/stoner/slacker demographic on lock. He invited us out back to chat with him after the show, but the mean security guard began cussing and telling us to leave, so I did. It was still a good show.

Saturday:
I and the rest of my fellow Gridiron Members set up the Al Chymia Shrine Center for the Saturday performance. This was the bigwig, $60 a head politicians and socialites night. We set up, I learned about the magic of chair covers. I passed on tying pretty bows on the chairs. I have enough trouble tying my shoes! Afterwards, we went to Panchos on Summer and White Station. Good meal, and I think the margaritas were pretty good, because my fellow Gridironers were awfully "thirsty". After that, it was home for a quick nap, then I arrived at the Shrine Center, where we poured champagne for the bigwigs. We had a good show, mayor AC Wharton was there, Jerry Tate(formerly of News 3) was a part of the play both nights (playing himself) and he was also presented the Headliner Award by Joe Birch, who we also parodied in the play. Joe was a good sport. Most of the polioticians politely laughed, but it seemed that they were scared to step on any toes. Cowards! After the show, we went back to the Variety Club for food and karaoke. I wowed the crowd with a pretty decent rendition of Santana and Rob Thomas' "Smooth". We hung out, shot the breeze, I left after a few hours.

Sunday:

I met a few of the Gridiron gang for brunch at Owen Brennan's. I felt like quite the country mouse: $21.95 for brunch?! Goodness gracious, I would've been straight with a Big Breakfast from McDoanld's. It was cool to watch my own waffle being made. Eggo can't give you that! There were begs and pleas for me to come back next year. I couldn't commit. King Indie is a vagabond who goes wherever the wind blows...or something like that. Later, I dropped Bryan Newcomb (Mail Call, Just the Two of Us) and Paul Briggs off at my good buddy Shomari's and met up with Rod Pitts (director: Imagine, What Goes Around) and our leads for Spin Cycle, Derrick Engleberg (Hell's Kitchen) and Nataki Caver (What Goes Around, Just the Two of Us). They were rehearsing for the laundromat scene that we planned for that night. Unfortunately, the tornado warning canceled that plan. I went back to Shomari's house and caught the last ninety minutes of Wrestlemania 22. Denna Greer (What Goes Around) was there. I have to put Bryan Newcomb on blog blast. Who brings their own sugar and packets of Kool-Aid to someone else's house? That's just too ghetto! You're my boy, though, "Ghetto B". He also told me that he wants a grill. Not a Foreman, mind you, a mouth grill. I have not seen a lot of Caucasian people with grills (except for rapper Paul Wall), but if anyone can pull it off, Bryan can. Oh, yeah, extra special shout out to Furious Styles, who I met during my college days at the U of M. We called him Steve back then, but now he's Furious Styles and he has a rap album out called First Two Letters of My Name. For the slow ones, that's a nice way of saying FU. I had to buy the album and show support. The album is available at Spin Street in the Memphis artists section. I've gotta find his e-mail or something and holler at that dude. Be easy, readers.