CPD takes CFA (Chicago Film Actor) for a Ride. Michael Wexler

I wanted to give a special shout out to the Chicago Police Department. This morning I had an audition on the south side. I took a train and 2 buses to get there. Of course when I got off the second bus I began to walk the wrong direction and was about 8 blocks off from my intended destination. I stopped to ask a CP Officer if they might know where my street was…she responded by asking me if I was “carrying a gun”. I said “no”. Which apparently was the right answer. She told me to get into the back of the police vehicle and drove me to the audition. Before I got out she asked if I had left any drugs in the back seat. I said “no…why would I leave them?”
She came around and let me out. That my friends would be the “serve” part of
“Serve and Protect”. Life is truly amazing.

CPD Officer takes me for a ride! A Random act of kindness.

AVENGERS… no,umm…THE CABIN IN THE WOODS? by Michael Wexler

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“They thought that it would be a disgrace to go forth as a group. Each entered the forest at a point that he himself had chosen, where it was darkest and there was no path. If there is a path it is someone else’s path and you are not on the adventure.”
― Joseph Campbell, The Hero’s Journey: Joseph Campbell on His Life & Work

O.K. so I thought I’d be seeing the AVENGERS this weekend and writing all about the “hero’s journey” etc… Well nothing is certain in this life. Especially in mine and for that I’m thankful. We decided to check out  THE CABIN IN THE WOODS  we had no idea what to expect. The ad for the film said “5 friends (one of them was Actor Chris Hemsworth -Thor) go to a remote cabin in the woods. Bad things happen. ”  They did… happen and it was awesome. This film was total camp and full of unexpected twist and turns. Actors Bradley Whitford and Richard Jenkins star in it.  It seemed to me that they were having as good a time acting in it as I was watching it. Don’t miss this film it kicks ass!

Chris Hemsworth makes an appearance in this movie, too. At least that’s what I’ve been told.

Midwest Independent Film Festival. by Michael Wexler

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I went to the Midwest Independent Film Festival this week. It’s the first Tuesday of  every month.  This was my first time. When you walk into the Century Mall you are immediately greeted by hosts who then proceed to point you in the right direction.You sign in at the Century Centre Cinema and are  welcomed by more festival ambassadors and invited to a cocktail party before the film. The pre-party is set up with lots of industry info and various groups sharing events, products and the latest in film technology. Before the film Festival Director Michael Macnamara welcomed everyone (just in case you weren’t feeling welcomed enough) and introduced a panel that discussed industry- related business. They then screened the very cool music video VILLAN by Logan Hall of Optimus.  Then we watched a great documentary  SADERMANIA by two amazing film makers Adam Gacka  and Paul Matian, This film was so engaging and true to itself. It was told in such a way that you were pulled into the story and happily went along for the ride. After  the film they had Q&A and as if that weren’t enough…everyone was invited to a nearby restaurant Forno Diablo for a great meal and  a post-show-schmooze reception. Wow what a night!  Join this group, check out upcoming events, you don’t want to miss the chance to be a part of this experience.  http://www.midwestfilm.org

“SUPERIOR DONUTS lives up to it’s name” Michael Wexler

Richard Cotovsky and Preston Tate,Jr in "Superior Donuts"

I saw a great play last night: SUPERIOR DONUTS. This is a production that you shouldn’t miss. I can’t say enough good things about it (well I probably could). The set was so perfect I felt like I actually was sitting in a donut shop.. I was blown away by the cast. What an amazing ensemble. Everyone was so perfectly cast and squeezed every moment out of their part. At one point during the show I realized I was actually perched on the edge of my seat. That’s Entertainment! Congratulations to Director Matt Miller, The Mary-Archie Theatre and the entire cast and crew for creating an unforgettable experience! Get a ticket while you still can. http://www.maryarrchie.com/now.html

Denise Scurto, Looking Good. By Michael Wexler

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I hesitate to share this info with everyone. Some things are just too good to keep to yourself. I’ve had the pleasure of working with Denise Scurto the Makeup and Hair Artist on numerous projects. We first met on the set of Boomstick Films  production of “Doctor Spine”. She surprised me by being so prepared for pretty much anything they threw at her. She’d be the perfect contestant on “Let’s Make a Deal.” No matter what Monty asked for she would have it in her purse! The next film we did she created a totally new look for me that defined the character.  She’s like the Macgyver of a production staff. No matter what you throw at her she doesn’t look at it as a  problem (simply a challenge). Since then I’ve done photo shoots, worked at CBS studios and many other film projects with her. She is truly one of the most dependable, creative and supportive people I’ve ever had the privilege to work with. It’s always such a comfort to know she’s part of a project. I guess what I’m saying is this: if you need a great Makeup and Hair Artist (she truly is an Artist) for  your shoot or even your wedding, book her today. Because soon you’ll have to plan your schedule around hers. Write this down — it’s my gift to you: denisescurto@hotmail.com

Michael Wexler is a Chicago actor who has been cast in theater productions, feature films, national TV commercials, TV series and voiceover work. More information about Michael can be found on his website Michaelwexler.weebly.com or email him directly at michaelwex@gmail.com.

Here’s a Link to sign up for a monthly note from me. http://eepurl.com/MyDEv Come on man all the cool kids are doin’ it!

“After Midnight” with Michael Wexler

Host, Michael Wexler “Chicago After Midnight”

 

Day 2. 2 more shows. This time I feel like I get it. I understand what it takes to make the interview banter seem real and still on point. It was cool working with the directors prior and  developing the scripts and the hosts persona.I feel like each of the 4 shows stood on there own. I cant wait to see the final edit. I feel like the 2nd day was way smoother than the 1st. Hope to share some segments soon.

Michael Wexler, The Long awaited “Doctor Spine”

The long awaited feature film “Doctor Spine” comes to the Portage Theatre January 14th 2011. Boomstick Films host there Holiday Party/Autograph show/World premiere/Double feature Screenings of the new thriller SPADES and The horror comedy DOCTOR SPINE.  The Film SPADES was filmed in 10 Days while DOCTOR SPINE  is four[4] years in the making. Both films come from the mind of writer,director John Wesley Norton,  who will be on hand to meet all the guest along with Larry Thomas, Tiffany Shepis, Juan Riedinger,Reggie Bannister, Joe Estevez,Robert Z’dar, Kathy Garver, Lisa Loring,Xango Henry,Agam Darshi, Bill Reinhold and many more cast and crew. This night should prove to be one of the greatest nights ever. Hope to see you all there. For Tickets check out> http://www.Boomstickfilms.com Don’t miss the hottest night in January!!!