Closer Still...

Although there's been plenty happening with the film, it has been a long time since my last post.

I intended to report on everything that came up as it came up. I'm finding however, that because of industry protocol and legal reasons, I'm not able to report on as much as I'd like.

For instance, there are many name actors who have agreed to be in Mobbed Up but because the 'paperwork' has not been signed, I can't publicly announce any names.

So allow me to bring us all up to date.

Mobbed Up has become a priority at Starline Films. One of the acts I've performed as a producer was find another production company interested in co-producing with us. This has resulted in a viable option or two. (Again, protocol prohibits naming names)

In order to get approvals from key investors involved, we are attempting to cast the film and present a complete budget analysis to this co-producer. To this end, producers from Starline are in Hollywood right now working on final casting for some important lead roles.

We are acting with some haste because our goal is to have cameras rolling by late June. If all goes well, we will be shooting this summer on a $10 million budget. This would likely mean a theatrical release in 2010.

We're at a very interesting place with the film right now. This has been a remarkable experience from the beginning. I know I am going to look back on this as stressful, educational, wonderful. That's what I'll be thinking about from the back row of a darkened theater as the opening credits roll.

Mobbed Up on IMDB

MOBBED UP is now listed on the trusted industry website, IMDB.COM (Internet Movie Database). IMDB is a much-used tool by professionals in the entertainment field and a scores of fans alike, racking upwards of 57 million visitors per month.

This listing further solidifies Starline Films' commitment to making this movie and making it a success! Check it out:

Mobbed Up on IMDB

Mobbed Up on IMDB PRO

"Mobbed Up" The Re-Write

It has been said that writing is rewriting.

As I eluded to in my last post, the main production force behind Mobbed Up has suggested a rewrite of the script.

A more focused conversation about this revealed that one character in particular would be effected. The male lead of Tommy the hit-man would need to be re-imagined to better fit a particular actor who is a bit younger and of a different heritage than we envision Tommy to be.

Furthermore, it has been suggested that the "new Tommy" be based on an actual person. Once involved, this person could help us in raising financing through his various industry contacts. This is good. We may even be able substantially increase the production budget which means more money to go around and a better-quality final product.

The Tommy character is very well seated into the current storyline, it will take a considerable rewrite to effectively work in a new persona. But my main goal here is to get this movie made. If Mobbed Up can move into production quicker, with budget secured and increased, it's probably a good idea to explore these changes. And that's what I intend to do. I'm beginning immediately on a rewrite to incorporate this new character. He's going to be quite a bit different from the old Tommy but should be fun to write and watch on the screen nonetheless. Oh, and he'll probably be called Jimmy.

This is actually good news for the film. More work without immediate compensation. But good news.

Pushing Ahead

Mobbed Up continues to be what I would characterize as a hot project. It seems to be forging ahead well ahead of any schedule I initially thought.

We're not even six months into development and we've already raised a significant amount of development cash, created a substantial website and gained a great deal of industry attention.

Starline Films has created a "package" for Mobbed Up that is being presented to and requested by many A-listers including actors, directors and producers. Were I to mention names, you would certainly know many of these people. But until there is paperwork signed it would be inappropriate for me to do so.

Starline has a full slate of projects in various states of production. It is fortunate that Mobbed Up has been able to hover near the top of this list. They really do have some exciting things in the works. I am very fortunate to be associated with the talented and very hard working folks at Starline Films. I would be fibbing if I didn't say I want Mobbed Up to pop as fast as possible but I also understand the big picture Starline is looking at. This is a difficult business to plot on a calendar. I'm trying to focus on it all unfolding organically to everyone's benefit.

For my part, I recently took an interview with a local paper and am planning an evening public presentation where I will address the Mobbed Up script, film making and writing in general.

Adaptation

Changes to the script have been discussed based on the interest and availability of several of name actors. I've already begun playing with some changes keeping in mind the actors who have shown interest.

This was not an entirely unexpected development. But it has been interesting to re-focus on the script in a way I hadn't in many months. Since development began in January 2008, I had been very business minded about Mobbed Up, wearing my producer's cap each day hence. It's been interesting to think creatively about the words on paper once again. Also a reminder of the art that lies beneath the numbers.

Still Looking For Investors

We've been raising money at a pretty good clip, with various investors apparently seeing the potential in this film. (Not to mention the recent lack-luster performance of more traditional investments.) But we are still looking for development investors. Search this blog and MobbedUpMovie.com for greater descriptions of development and investing in Mobbed Up. Remember, the opportunity to invest at this level can be ended at any time.

Starline would also like to speak to anyone with access to greater funds for production purposes.

For more information, please use the contact info posted at the website:
http://mobbedupmovie.com/contact.shtml