Saturday, February 28, 2009

Piece of Cake


Last night, I watched the first and only film that I have ever written and directed play on a local station here in Birmingham, AL - "Piece of Cake". I hadn't seen it in over a year (despite the fact that I have several copies in my kitchen cabinet), and as the time got closer to view it on public television the more anxious and nervous I got. Insecurities were running rampant... would I be proud? Would I cringe at things that were blatantly wrong? Would I think that Mo Rocca wasted his time by taking such a huge risk on this project? What would other people think who watched it along with me? I knew THIS was the time I could finally be objective about the film.

The time finally came, and I saw the title of my film come across the screen: "Piece of Cake". I took a deep breath, and took a sip of wine. At this point I was still alone in the loft, so it almost seemed like a spiritual moment. I teared up at all effort and emotions that got me to this exact moment in time.

As the movie played, I was genuinely shocked at how great it was. I laughed at my own jokes, and thought from time to time, "that was a great line!". I was amazed at all of the actor's performances. I was amazed at all of the effort that SO MANY people put forth to get a project like that done. I was amazed at myself for keeping my dream alive until completion. I finally could see "Piece of Cake" for what it was: a rare and extraordinary event that a lot of people will remember forever.

"Piece of Cake" did not do well with independent festivals (with a big exception for the Sidewalk Film Festival). This could be for many reasons. I think it is mostly because of the type of movie it is, a romantic comedy. Also, with a 16 minute run time it isn't exactly ideal for the short film market. As a matter of fact, it is film festival suicide. Ultimately, POC was a labor of love and those who weren't involved will never understand what it took to get it done. They will also never love it as much as we did.

I had to take a serious break after making POC, and I am glad that I did. It would have been too easy to be impulsive and jump right back in. Over the past 2 years since POC was completed, I have been able to step back and reevaluate my purpose in the creative arts. Also, I have been able to pay off the money it took to make POC. It is officially over, and a part of my past.

As for the future, I would love to make another film. But it has to be the right one. Stay tuned.

Visit this link to view media coverage and photos from POC:
http://www.pieceofcakeshort.com/partyfavors.html