Perhaps we're too far into autumn for a summer wrap-up blog, but I've been quite busy these last few months. Better to be late than miss the party altogether.
Besides finishing up Fair Game and watching the World Cup, I worked on two separate MTV reality shows, and a cool show for the Ovation network called "In Search of Food," during which I got to ride a bike around the pumpkin and squash fields at Riverbend Farm, see the butter making process at the Hope Creamery, and enjoy the musical stylings of the Prairie Home Companion band at the amazing Oak Center General Store. Incredibly long hours, but the perks made it well worth it.
Prior to that project, I was a Shooter/PA on the upcoming PBS documentary, "Now: Fixing the Future", which will air nationally on November 18th. This was one of my best work experiences in recent memory (definitely tops the list of TV productions). A fun, intelligent and passionate crew, fascinating subject matter, and great food all along the way - from fine wines and local cheeses to the MN State Fair's walleye-on-a-stick (yes, it's as good as it sounds). Plus, any time I get to climb to the top of a silo to shoot endless expanses of farm land, I'm going to feel pleasantly placated.
Along with all the TV work, I was Assistant Director on a short scene from friend and fellow soccer-playing filmmaker Ryan Strandjord's short film, Prescription Happiness. He's now starting to raise money for that production, so check out his IndieGoGo page if you get a chance.
In RSM land, Colin and I are still hard at work on our first feature script, looking for our next music video adventure, and in post on a short piece similar in form, but not remotely in content, to This Is Sex.
In a previous blog, I believe we promised some wilderness adventure stories. I know Colin added to his arsenal of tales with several more trips this summer, so next time you see him, offer him a cheap cigar, and I'm sure he'll regale you 'til the smoke runs out. As for me, I finally managed a trip to the SHT in September. While I'm somewhat inclined to tell you all about it here, I think I'd rather save it for the bar or the bonfire. There's a lot to tell, and it may require a stiff drink, especially if I'm to begin explaining how nearly becoming bear bait helped me learn the true meaning of Yom Kippur.
Finally, and in all earnestness, a quick word about a Twin Cities artist who recently passed away. This is far from Rogue Set Media related, but I'm including it here because both Colin and I were quite shocked and saddened at the news. Eyedea (aka Oliver Hart, aka Micheal "Mikey" Larsen), a rapper, writer, musician and altogether brilliant individual, died recently, at the age of 28. This was one truly special human being. I only had the pleasure of meeting him once, many years ago, but I always enjoyed his music, and took great pleasure in just knowing he was out there, doing his thing. Thoughts and condolences to everyone we know, and those we don't, who knew and loved him.
- Mike
Tuesday, April 12, 2011 at 06:12PM 