Of all the elements required to create an entertaining movie, are there any more important than Casting? True, if the words aren't on the page, then the best of actors can't save a weak script. Likewise, a great script performed by weak actors usually fails miserably. So what happens when you have an opportunity to direct unknown yet proven performers in an indie musical-drama with a script that you wrote that most people agree is a pretty cool Story? What's gonna show up on the big screen from that kind of combination? What determines whether an audience buys in and absorbs themselves into the plot and subplots? I believe the simple answer is - Chemistry. Either the audience is hooked by the relationships between your Characters or they're not. It's that simple. And after all the months working to get to this point in the process and now finding myself days away from the cameras rolling - it's a blessing, especially for an indie film, to have the time and resources to rehearse and block your scenes and get an early glimpse of the possibilities.
Beautiful Noise ultimately is about Redemption and never ever giving up on your Dreams - and realizing that all you really need to succeed is already within you. To tell that kind of emotional Story without overplaying the Themes involved is tricky and demands a lot of range from your actors. After experiencing the first day of rehearsals with two of my Lead Characters in the film, "Noah & Dez", as played by Jay White and Danielle White (no relation!), I'm happy to report that I think we're on to something special. Jay is a consumate professional, having graced stages in Vegas and around the world for over 20 years as the world's #1 Neil Diamond performer - and his take on 'Noah', the washed up singer-songwriter from the 70's who walked away from the limelight and his troubled past, is dead on. For clarity's sake, understand that the movie and Jay's role has absolutely nothing at all to do with Mr. Diamond's life and storied career, so Jay's portrayal in the film is completely foreign to the role he's been playing on stage all his adult life...which is no easy task. And Danielle...well, her overwhelming talent is matched equally with a wisdom, intellect and personality that informs any remotely enlightened person that, wise beyond her years, she's truly an 'old soul' and a perfect choice to play the mystically Bohemian 'Dez'. Later in our first week of filming, starting in just a few days, their co-star Kimber Cleveland joins us on set. Kimber's personal life story mirrors the journey of her character, 'Candy', so I can't wait to direct this rare talent and help her shape her star-making role in the film through her natural acting ability and dynamic music performances. And to add a little extra Light on the subject matter, I get to work with the one and only King Errisson in Week One of the shooting schedule! Diamondheads the world over recognize King as the conga player-percussionist extraordinaire who has performed in Neil Diamond's band since 1974. King's small but crucial role in our movie is tailor-made for him...and it's a real treat to have some of that Diamond vibe energizing Beautiful Noise.
I suspect that the next few posts to this Director's Blog will be shorter as the Team is gathering to start the shoot next Monday. Thanks for following along. I'll do my best to bring you my insights and experiences from the set as the Action unfolds. Light a few candles, say a few prayers and send us all some positive waves. I have the recipe for a wonderful movie and all the essential ingredients here with me now. There's still a long road ahead before we take this thing out of the oven...but I know it's got a chance to be something you'll enjoy digging your teeth into.
Steve
