April 30, 2009

NYILFF Season is Fast Approaching...

Okay, so, here's what happenin' here, today...

First, we reviewed the first pass of the NYILFF commercial script (shoot this Saturday). Great first pass, but, of course like all first passes, it needs tweaking. I sent a fairly long email with specific comments from Calixto and me, including the key messages we want to relay. It's easy to get caught up in the fun creative process and lose sight of the main objectives. I just thought it'd help us all stay on point if I reiterated those goals and messages. But, we have an awesome creative team, so I'm psyched.

I have a conf. call in 45 mins with a (non-exclusive) spirits partner. Well, technically, it's not yet locked, but we have been given the verbal go-ahead. As you know, however, the devil is in the details and until we nail it all down (including budget...hello!), the deal, in my mind, is not done.

The exec from our potential financial partner got back to me today (he was on vaca). They're working on next steps, which is super encouraging. Major crossed fingers for that one, please!!

As of 9am, I have a meeting next Wed with a potential new cable b'cast partner. That could be very interesting. And, we're working on another (non-compete) b'cast partner that could also be exciting. Hopefully, I'll have that meeting in the next week or two.

And, on top of that stuff and other day2day busywork (i.e., recaps, email, calls, etc.), Calixto and I are in discussions with an org. potentially to run their film program. No, it's not another film festival so don't go thinkin' crazy thoughts... just yet. ;)

If you're as busy as I am, you need a break. Watch a movie on Cinedulce! :)

Liz
P.L.H.H.
Cinedulce
NYILFF

April 29, 2009

Just Another Day Fightin' the Good Fight

As usual, I'm having a super busy day (this theme will be increasingly more prominent in the months to come, so settle into it, folks...).

This AM, I had a great (i.e., promising) call with a potential NYILFF auto partner. Apparently, they already had their eye on us (who knew??), but may not have the resources this year (shocking...). I forwarded the proposal and now... all together please... WE WAIT!

Later in the Am, we went to a film screening for a mediocre movie. Not bad; not great. But the screening sparked a couple of great programming thoughts from Calixto. So, if all goes well, we may have figured out two key positions = silver lining.

After that, just calls, calls and more calls, including a conference call with our beauty partner. Oh, and I just received an email from a major spirits company with partnership interest. I'll let you know when I have more info.

One last note, I took a call from a filmmaker with quite the attitude. He clearly had no clue who I was, which, quite frankly, is irrelevant (other than it was funny to hear his reaction when I told him). Let's just say, he actually called me ma'am... and not in that respectful, 1950's, Beaver Cleaver kind of way; it was more an egregiously condescending "who the hell are you??" kind of tone. Yeah. Right. Good move, champ. Anyway, my point is - let's treat everyone with respect regardless of how much of a creative genius you think you are. ;)

Okay, I have a ton of work. Over and out...

Liz.
P.L.H.H.
Cinedulce
NYILFF

April 28, 2009

It's Always Better to Look Up

Yep, I'm stilllll waiting for answers from a bunch of potential key sponsors. Yes, this is late for us. Yes, I'm aware of the economy. Yes, I believe we will be okay. Yes, I'm an eternal optimist. Breathe.

We had a very good AM weekly meeting and are moving along with prep for Saturday's commercial shoot. We'll be sure to take some behind the scenes video so you can all check out how it went. Considering how well auditions went, we're pretty psyched. Fingers crossed...


Tonight, I'm going to a script reading for the new film of my friend, Hugo Perez, a massively talented filmmaker who's one of the funnier, smarter guys I know. His script, Betty La Flaca, won the '06 HBO/NYILFF Short Film Contest. It's seriously hilarious and still makes my dad laugh. If I'm not mistaken, tonight's reading is for Hugo's first feature-length script so I'm psyched to hear it. I'm sure it'll elicit at least a chuckle or two. Plus, I'm bringing my friend, Rachel, who's also pretty damn hilarious. Thanks to Hugo and Katharyn for the invite!

Liz.
P.L.H.H.
Cinedulce
NYILFF

April 27, 2009

Hot Tea With Honey, Anyone?

I'm remembering why I always lose my voice in the Spring and Summer months. I have been on the phone for literally 5 hours today. I've had 6 back-2-backs calls and have several more to go. Ay carumba! Operations for the fest are kicking into high(er) gear, as we continue to lock in staff, PR strategies, schedules, etc. I can't believe it's almost May. where does the time go??

On another note, I'd like to thank all of the folks who stopped by our offices yesterday for the NYILFF Share Ur Story audition. You all are awesome and are the reason we work so hard and do what we do. I literally can't thank you enough. Hopefully, you also had a fun time and met some cool peeps. In the meantime, remember we are still accepting vlogs. We'd love to build the community dialogue and see what you have to say. So, don't be shy and submit your original vlog today!

Disfruta el sol...

Liz.
P.L.H.H.
Cinedulce
NYILFF

April 24, 2009

Last Chance for UR 15 Mins (er... 10 Seconds) of Fame!

CALLING ALL NYILFF ALUMNI, STAFF, VOLUNTEERS, PARTNERS AND FRIENDS!

This is your final weekend for potential participation in the 2009 NY Int'l Latino Film Festival commercial spot, which will run on cable TV, in all Clearview Cinemas, before every film in the festival and online!


There are two ways you can 'audition'. You can either... :

1. Submit an original Vlog on Cinedulce before Monday, April 27. We've posted some videos on Cinedulce to give you a view of what some other folks have done. VIEW OTHER VLOGS AND SHARE UR STORY HERE!

OR

2. RSVP to our auditions, which will take place this SUNDAY, APRIL 26. RSVP to Filmmaker@Cinedulce.com (all details will be emailed to you in an email confirmation). We've already received a bunch of RSVP's, so space is filling up quickly. If you're interested, don't delay!

PLEASE NOTE:
  • IF YOU SUBMIT A VLOG, YOU DO NOT HAVE TO AUDITION ON SUNDAY.
  • THE NYILFF COMMERCIAL SHOOT DATE IS SATURDAY, MAY 02.
  • NON-SAG MEMBERS ONLY PLEASE.
Good luck!!

Liz.
P.L.H.H.
Cinedulce
NYILFF

April 23, 2009

Feel the Local Fest Love

As of last night, the annual Tribeca Film Festival is now officially under way. As usual, they have a huge selection of films and programming from all over the world. They also have some strong Latino pics, including the already sold-out "Entre Nos". Don't forget they also have outdoor screenings, industry panels, live music and the always popular family festival. So, check out some new films, support emerging talent and celebrate in downtown NYC!

Liz.
P.L.H.H.
Cinedulce
NYILFF

April 22, 2009

It's Earth Day. Watch A Film. And Recycle.

I think there's no better way to celebrate today, 2009 Earth Day, than by watching some inspiring, world-class short films about being a conscientious, caring citizen of this planet. Well, okay, maybe there are some better, more productive things we all could be doing in the spirit of environmentalism and planetary love. But, let's face it - we're at work... so, we can't really do many of those things right this second.

But, we CAAAAN watch these films, take a little respite from work, maybe learn a thing or two and, of course, remind ourselves we need to treat Mother Nature the way we treat our own mothers because she's just as sensitive and generous, but has a much harsher temper.


Inconvenient Ruth and Think are probably my favorite, and Cow is intense, but they're all really good. Check em out!





Liz.
P.L.H.H.
Cinedulce
NYILFF

April 21, 2009

1st Taste Tuesdays: 04.21.09

TELEDULCE
Ring Life Edvan Barros Ep. 2: Training A Champ
Watch Episode #2 of Edvan Barros' journey to become a world champion fighter. For more, log on to HBO.com






Diva Speak TV, Season 2, Ep. 9
The Obama Episode!







Making the Band Spoof Season 2 Pt 4
MTV’s Making the Band launched the careers of Danity Kane, Day 26 and Donnie Klang… now, get ready for the next big thing: “The Uncomf’tables”. Comprised of MTV’s Wild ‘n Out’s AFFION CROCKETT and JOHN O. NELSON, prepare to laugh your ass off as you witness this ghetto band in the making.



Linked Ep.8: Moms & Boyfriends
Gabriel, unsatisfied with Danny's arrest, decides to visit Nadia once again. Once there, he learns more than he bargained for.





Life Of A Struggling Actor Ep #9
Normal day and the coin laundry. Joesph and Joey try something new to eat: a reptile...




URDULCE

SVARMODER (1 of 10)
Your mother eats your boyfriends? Directed by Paco Arasanz
.




La Tengo No La Tengo (I Have Her, I Have her not)
Watch official trailer for romantic comedy by Leon Klein.




Peep Game
A lighthearted tale of an arrogant young woman's attempt to enjoy time at an outdoor cafe, and how she's perceived by passengers at a nearby bus stop. Directed by Brian Thompson.



NEW SHARE UR STORY VIDEO!!

Check out funny man, VICTOR CRUZ, sharing his favorite NYILFF story... CLICK HERE!

Liz.
P.L.H.H.
Cinedulce
NYILFF

April 20, 2009

AUDITIONS THIS SUNDAY FOR NYILFF AD CAMPAIGN!!

Haven't had the opportunity to shoot your NYILFF Share Ur Story vlog? No worries! Although Cinedulce’s campaign will continue throughout the summer, time is winding down on selections for the 2009 New York International Latino Film Festival ad campaign.

So... Calling all NYILFF film talent, including directors, actors and producers, plus staff members, volunteers and fans: Come on down on Sunday, April 26 to tell your 5-8 minute story directly to our DV crew.

Don’t miss out on the chance literally to “watch yourself” on-screen this summer at the NYILFF’s 10th anniversary!

KEY POINTS
  • Audition Date: Sunday, April 26
  • Commercial Shoot Date: Sunday, May 03
  • Maximum Audition Duration: 8 minutes
SPECIAL NOTES:
  • Individuals who have submitted Share UR Story vlogs on Cinedulce.com do NOT have to audition on April 26. You are already in consideration.
  • After the audition, we will contact only those people we select to participate in the campaign.
  • The confirmation email will include all pertinent audition information, including location and time.
  • Non-SAG actors only.
RSVP by no later than Thursday, April 23 to Filmmaker@Cinedulce.com.

Good luck!

Liz.
P.L.H.H.
Cinedulce.com
NYLatinoFilm.com

April 17, 2009

MORE SHARE UR STORY VLOGS!

Check out our 2 newest Share UR Story vlogs! So great! Million thanks to Reynier Molenaar and Glenys Javier!

WATCH HERE!


Have you Shared UR Story yet??

Liz.
P.L.H.H.
www.Cinedulce.com
www.NYLatinoFilm.com

April 16, 2009

Retail Therapy

I just had a promising convo. with the agency for a big retailer as a possible partner for the NY Int'l Latino Film Festival. I think she's particularly interested in Cinema Under the Stars (free, outdoor screenings) because it targets the broader, multi-generational Latino community and that's sort of more appropriate for this major, mainstream retailer.

Partnerships with retail partners can be very interesting opportunities because they frequently include vendors as coop partners. For example, if you're talking to a pharmacy, they may ask particular brands in relevant categories (i.e., candy, pharma, beverages, etc.) if they want to foot part of the bill and, in turn, participate in the event. As a result of the shared sponsorship expense, the retailer pays less money to the event so it's an easier sell. It's a very similar arrangement to media partnerships, where the client becomes a sales agent for you. Basically, when it works the right way, it's a win-win-win.

That said. I've already sent out the proposal and now, as always, we wait...

Liz.
P.L.H.H.
www.Cinedulce.com
www.NYLatinoFilm.com

April 15, 2009

The Waiting is the Hardest Part

So, I'm sitting here this AM thinking about how waiting for answers from potential NY Int'l Latino Film Festival sponsors is a fairly painful process and doing the math on dates (i.e., how much time do I have before I need to force decision trigger-pulling), when Tom Petty's "The Waiting" comes on the radio. If you're not familiar with it, the hook says, "The waiting is the hardest part". Well, actually, it's "the waiiiiting is the hardest part". Whoah! The radio programmers were reading my mind! What's funnier is the next song was Pink Floyd's, "Breathe", from the classic "Dark Side of the Moon." That's right, everyone, just relax and breathe... it will all be okay. ;)

On another note, Cinedulce.com just received another Share UR Story submission. Big shout-out to the very talented filmmaker and 2007 NYILFF alum (award-winning short, "Replay"), Reynier Molenaar (www.ReynierMolenaar.com). It's not yet posted, but will be soon. Yay!

Liz.
P.L.H.H.
www.Cinedulce.com
www.NYLatinoFilm.com

April 14, 2009

Ain't Film Grand?

I saw a GREAT NYILFF film last night. We're not only showing it, but it's a premiere. Talk to me...Plus, it was shot in NYC, which isn't really important or relevant to the submission process; it's just always nice to see filmmakers support this city and the local talent.

Regardless, the film really touched me. Sometimes it's easy to lose track of why we do what we do because there is so much planning, preparation, stress and work involved in the process. When you're sitting at your desk all day working the phones and typing on your computer, it's hard to focus on the end result: the excitement, energy and spirit of the actual live event. But then, I'll screen a film I really love and get a jolt of inspiration and feel such joy from knowing I selected a career that allows me to support amazingly talented artists who are telling stories and pursuing a dream.

I tell ya, could make a girl cry...
(sniff)

Liz.
P.L.H.H.
www.Cinedulce.com
www.NYLatinoFilm.com

1st Taste Tuesdays: 04.14.09

Get 'em while they're hot...

TELEDULCE
Ring Life Edvan Barros, Ep. 1: A Unique Style
Born in the same Brazilian town as Acelino Freitas, Barros stumbled onto boxing while practicing his first art, the South American martial art of Capoeira. Now, 15 fights into his career (9-5-1), he still believes he can be world champion and is pursuing that goal.



Diva Speak TV, Season 2, Episode #8
SupaWoman of the Week: Beverly Bond Big Up: Phife of ATCQ gets a Kidney transplant! Let Down: The tragic murders of Jennifer Hudson's family Feature: Countdown to Change! & CMJ pics




Making the Band Spoof, Ep. 7
MTV’s Making the Band launched the careers of Danity Kane, Day 26 and Donnie Klang… now, get ready for the next big thing: “The Uncomf’tables”. Comprised of MTV’s Wild ‘n Out’s AFFION CROCKETT and JOHN O. NELSON, prepare to laugh your ass off as you witness this ghetto band in the making.
HILARITY!


Linked Ep.7, "Whirlwind Clue Chaos"
Gabriel and Jason head to Councilman Brown's office hoping to find some answers. What they learn may make Gabe change his mind completely.




Life Of A Struggling Actor, Ep #8
Miller Lite Commercial Audition. The booking crew girls from myspace. Our bank account: $900.00.





Liz.
P.L.H.H.
www.Cinedulce.com
www.NYLatinoFilm.com

April 13, 2009

Potential '09 Financial Partner...Who Woulda Thunk??

Okay, I don't want to jinx anything, but I have to say, my call on Friday with the potential NYILFF financial sponsor partner was really promising. It was a follow-up to my original discussion with the firm's head of Hispanic mktg. and included the regional marketing manager, who, as it turns out, has a ton of experience working with film festivals. They just seem to get it, which is frequently half the battle.

Next steps: they will send me a
'needs', 'wants' and 'unimportant' list, from which I will build a customized proposal for their review. At week's end, we'll hop back on the phone to discuss the new proposal. In this terrible economic environment, this is a rare opportunity and one which could have a significant impact on this year's event... so, PULEEZE send out the positive vibes...

On a different note, I watched a potential NYILFF film on Saturday afternoon and, unfortunately, was disappointed. I really wanted to love it because we know a bunch of the cast members, but, in this case, I feel the parts are stronger than the whole...

Liz
P.L.H.H.
www.Cinedulce.com
www.NYLatinoFilm.com

April 10, 2009

Check it out: Sample Share UR Story Vids!


We've posted a few Share UR Story videos to show you the great stuff we've started to receive AND to encourage YOU to share UR story.

Remember, if you send us your vlog on or before April 15, you may end up in this year's official NYILFF commercial, which screens before EVERY NYILFF film and on cable TV, in theaters and online. Here's your chance for 15 minutes of fame...or just some fun sharing with the community!

HUGE shout-outs to my man, Mike Diaz (click HERE to view Mike's video), the charming Inez Guillen (click HERE to view Inez's video) and local music faves Tha Heights (click HERE to view Tha Heights' video) for sharing their stories with us and with you.

Side note: It turns out we have a fan in a soldier currently stationed in Iraq - he just bought t-shirts from us. Calix and I are unbelievably inspired and touched. Now, if only we could get him a video camera to let him share his story... ;)

HUGE thanks and happy holidays to all!

Liz
P.L.H.H.
www.Cinedulce.com
www.NYLatinoFilm.com


April 9, 2009

HBO JOB POSTING!

In these challenging times, it's rare to come across such a fantastic job opportunity, especially from such an in-demand media company like HBO. Check it out!

HBO, Manager, Film Programming
Responsibilities are to screen and evaluate film submissions for HBO/Cinemax (including late night and home video/other rights titles), with an emphasis on submissions for HBO Latino. Candidate will attend local screenings and select film festivals, as necessary, input/maintain database of all evaluations on an ongoing basis and act as point person for film information for the company at large. Manager position involves interaction with HBO Scheduling, Marketing and On Air departments and may require some translation for HBO Latino in connection with acquired programming. Ideal candidate will have previous film industry experience and extensive working knowledge of films past and present, including Spanish and Latin American cinema. Fluent Spanish, excellent writing skills a must. Reports to Director, Film Programming. This position is based in NYC.

If interested, please apply directly on the HBO web site... CLICK HERE!

Liz
(P.L.H.H.)
www.Cinedulce.com
www.NYLatinoFilm.com

Deadlines Approaching!

Buenos dias!

First and foremost, let's get down to biz... submission deadlines:

TOMORROW, FRIDAY, 04/10
NYILFF
HBO/NYILFF Short Film Contest

WEDNESDAY, 04/15*
Share UR Story
*IF you want to be considered for the trailer - otherwise, you can submit whenever you want.


Speaking of the commercial, we had a GREAT creative meeting with the folks at HBO, who are developing our campaign, and we are psyched! They presented 3 directions, all of which were beautiful and super cool, but one was the universal favorite. WE LOVE IT! It's bold, edgy and street, but also sophisticated, artsy and polished. Plus, it really focuses on the community, which is key. I can't wait until it's all put together and I can show it to you!

Tomorrow, I have a follow-up conference call with a potential sponsor in the financial category. I already know they have preliminary interest, but I'm not yet sure what that means. PLEASE - say a little prayer, have a moment of silence, light some incense, whatever your thing is - but please send me good vibes tomorrow @ noon. In this economy, we need ALL of the help we can get. THANKS!

Liz.
(P.L.H.H.)
www.Cinedulce.com
www.NYLatinoFilm.com

April 7, 2009

1st Taste Tuesdays: 04.07.09

Fresh out of the oven...

TELEDULCE
Chris Arreola Ep 3: The Nightmare Comes To Life
Check out Chris Arreola's journey to become a world champion boxer. For more, log onto HBO.com




Diva Speak TV: Season #2, Ep #7
SupaWoman of the Week: Donna Brazile Countdown to Change Big Up: Colin Powell Let Down: Ignorance Feature: Things completely opposite of Change




Making the Band Spoof, Season 2 Pt 2
MTV’s Making the Band launched the careers of Danity Kane, Day 26 and Donnie Klang… now, get ready for the next big thing: “The Uncomf’tables”. Comprised of MTV’s Wild ‘n Out’s AFFION CROCKETT and JOHN O. NELSON, prepare to laugh your ass off as you witness this ghetto band in the making.


Linked Ep 6 - All In
After learning Danny isn't who he claimed to be, Gabriel sits with Jason and sorts out the facts. Can he still count on his dreams or will he decide to investigate beyond?



Life Of A Struggling Actor, Ep. #7
American Express audition and Jacquie's driving...





URDULCE
Diary of a Hitman
An inside look at the underworld though the eyes of a paid killer. Directed by Ary Hernandez.



"There Was A Time In America"
Description: There Was A Time In America is a song composed by Paul Val produced by John Pandolfo recorded at Nightflight studios for Black Rose Productions, Inc. This song is published by Black Rose Productions Inc and features Uppercut and Brent Carter, former lead singer of Tower of Power. This is truly a song that needs to be heard. The message is positive and speaks about the lost innocence of children in America and abroad as a result of gun violence. Directed by Tito Batista
.

Liz
(P.L.H.H.)
www.Cinedulce.com
www.NYLatinoFilm.com

April 6, 2009

NYILFF Opening Night is Set!

As of this weekend, we have officially locked in the '09 NYILFF Opening Night film! Yay! The producers and director are all super-excited about it and the star of the film (to remain nameless, for the time being) is super-psyched to support the film and the festival. Awesome. Now, Closing Night...

On another positive note, we have interest from the media partner we approached for this national Cinedulce program I'm putting together with Remezcla. We have a bunch of details to sort through, but they gave us very positive feedback late last week. Could be major.

Did you see "Sugar" this weekend? Thoughts?

TODAY'S TREAT
T PARTY
A tough little girl will stop at nothing to have a tea party with her older brother. Super cute.




Liz.
(P.L.H.H.)
www.Cinedulce.com
www.NYLatinoFilm.com

April 3, 2009

It's SUGAR time!

"Sugar is immensely satisfying in the way it drives a stake into the heart of the cliches that send most baseball movies to the benches." Peter Travers, Rolling Stone

Earlier this week, I was fortunate to attend the official premiere of the beautiful, moving new film, SUGAR, which opens TODAY in NEW YORK and LOS ANGELES!



SUGAR follows the story of Miguel "Sugar" Santos, a Dominican pitcher from San Pedro de Marcoris, struggling to make it to the big leagues and pull himself and his family out of poverty. Playing professionally at a baseball academy in the Dominican Republic, Miguel finally gets his break at age 19 when he advances to the Unites States' minor league system; but when his play on the mound falters, he begins to question the single-mindedness of his life's ambition.


Written and Directed by: Ryan Fleck and Anna Boden
Starring: Algenis Perez Soto, Jaime Tirelli, Alina Vargas, Rayniel Rufino...

I urge you to check out this film not only because we need to support Latino films, but because I know YOU WILL LOVE IT. It's just an honest, touching look at the journey these young, talented kids travel in pursuit of their dream to play ball and save their families. Plus, it's baseball season and unless you want to sit in the rain tonight, this is your best alternative! ;)

To buy your tickets NOW, visit: SUGAR SHOWTIMES

Liz.
(P.L.H.H.)
www.Cinedulce.com
www.NYLatinoFilm.com

April 2, 2009

Win Some, Lose Some

Okay, I'll admit - this week (thus far) has not been the most stellar of weeks in the history of the NYILFF. Without going into the boring details, let's just say this is a tough economy and even the best of us are feeling it. That said, every dawn brings a new day with fresh opportunities. Who knows what today will bring?

More importantly, we still have a ton going on and great films continue to pour in each and every day (thanks to all of you filmmakers who continue to support us!!). This is gonna be an awesome 10th anniversary event and we can't wait to share it with all of you.

In the meantime, back to hitting the phones...

TODAY'S TREAT
Think
Think,What Does It Takes To Change a Habit?
Totally cute from from the Live Earth series...




Liz.
(P.L.H.H.)

www.Cinedulce.com
www.NYLatinoFilm.com

April 1, 2009

Tweet, Tweet

Guess what?? You can now follow Calixto (IamCalixto) and me (LizGardner) on Twitter! Yep, we have joined the Twitter revolution.

We plan to tweet during the months leading up to the NY Int'l Latino Film Festival (July 28 - August 02), letting you guys know where we're going, what we're doing, who we're meeting and what inevitable craziness is ensuing...and, trust me, there is always craziness. Example: one afternoon during the 2008 NYILFF, I was in HBO's 15th floor bathroom getting my hair and makeup done, while writing a speech on my computer, which was balanced on the sink, and talking on both my cell phone and walkie. Loco, I know, but that's just how it is -- 24/7 madness for one straight week.

Also, of course, we'll let you know any fun, new updates about Cinedulce. Speaking of which...

TODAY'S TREAT
7:35 De La Manana
Loisaida Cortos Latino Film Festival shorts presents: A woman enters the café where she has breakfast every morning and finds that all of the other diners are staring at their plates in silence. Directed by Nacho Vigalondo.


Liz.
(P.L.H.H.)
www.Cinedulce.com
www.NYLatinoFilm.com