Reflecting back more than six years on the Starship Farragut film project – - - after four live action films and two animated episodes, I came up with 10 items about Star Trek fan films worth sharing.  These 10 items are in no particular order and I’ll make the disclaimer that they’re my own statements not directed to slight anyone or any film project in particular.

1.  You will not make any money.  In fact, be prepared to have money drained.  Since CBS Television holds the rights to the Star Trek show, you cannot generate any sales revenue from your film efforts due to copyright infringement.  Unless you’re planning to leverage your fan film project to be a stepping stone in other film projects, you will not get a financial return on investment.  Fans and supporters of your project will likely encourage you to proceed and volunteer their time, but in terms of monetary donations, do not have an expectation that you can ‘bank’ on their support long term.
2. Get real actors for your cast.  I totally underestimated the acting craft when I started this film project.  I have since boned up and seen self-improvement in our episodes; however, I do recommend getting folks with professional acting CREDS – nothing creates more disbelief than folks not being prepared acting-wise or having out-of-shape, physically unfit people wearing Starfleet uniforms.
3. Star Trek has baggage!  If you’re doing a Star Trek fan film there is an expectation that your sets, costumes and props will look EXACTLY like what was seen on TV.  If not, your audience will criticize you hard —- harder than how badly Kirk’s death was handled in STAR TREK GENERATIONS.  Adding to this, working to get vintage, rare parts for sets and working with a manufacturers to dye fabric to screen-used swatches is both time consuming and expensive.
4. Everyone thinks their project is (or will be) the best ever.  This can create rivalry and competitiveness.   If you’re a viable film group consistently producing film product, you will receive both adulation from fans and “hate bashing” from insecure people who are envious of your success.  Always take the high road and never let their pettiness override the positive and professional harmony you’ve worked hard to achieve.  Collaboration is possible with other film groups, as Farragut Films has demonstrated with other TREK and non-TREK film groups; however, some folks are best to not work with- period.
5. Drama.  Yeah, there will be some.  When you get creative types together, coupled with anal Star Trek fans, there will be some drama; however, I’m proud to say that on the Farragut Films’ side, we’ve been able to handle differences respectfully and minimize drama.  In the six years of our existence, we’ve only had to discontinue working with one person and one other left for his own agenda.  With numerous volunteers supporting our project nationwide in the various areas of pre-production, production and post production – I consider those EXCELLENT retention rates.
6. Family and Friends.  To launch off our Starship Farragut film project, I leveraged the skills, talents and support from those closest to me, as well as a network of good business contacts to make our films.  As you increase awareness to your film project, other volunteers will want to come aboard.  Be sure to have a vetting process in place for bringing in new folks (both cast & crew).  Do your due diligence and always treat them well.  For Farragut Films, we have key differentiators regarding appreciation:  1) You will receive a DVD of the completed film, 2) You will be fed during times of filming, and 3)As an actor you will receive a uniform/costume tailor-fitted to you to keep or as a crew person you will receive a Starship Farragut or Farragut Films embroidered attire (polos, T-shirts, ball caps, etc.).  As far as I know, we’re the only TREK film outfit doing this.  Getting back to the point of family and friends – it will be an enormous time management juggling act to spend quality time with your spouse, children and friends as this type of project can require so much of your time.  Be sure to balance time with them too if you want their continued support!
7. Be able to wear multiple hats.  A lot of folks that start out on doing their own project are ignorant in all the complexities of doing a high-quality film production.  They’ll likely take 10 years or so just to get off the ground.  You’ve got to have surplus cash (or access to folks with disposable income), be business savvy; a motivator; an organizer – the list goes on.  If you’re seriously committed, you’ll be involved in several areas (costuming, project managment, acting, propmaking, etc.) and you’ll need to effective with your time management – juggling career, family and your film project.  For those late nights – bring on the Five-Hour Energy Drinks!
8. Sets.  Yes, people are fascinated by the sets!  I’ve seen some groups, and yes more than one, that seem fixated on building sets with no clear vision of using them.  For us, we’ve only built the sets needed per script requirements.  In other words, unless you’re well off financially and have ample storage space —– only build the sets you need to tell the story.
9. Wardrobe – In order to do a Star Trek series, you got to have Starfleet uniforms.  I had no ambition to sew, but when I was unable to get a tailor or seamstress to make the uniforms from scratch, I had to learn how to make them myself.  I’ll never forget the look I got when I brought the Classic STAR TREK shirt pattern and fabric to my trusted tailor for many years, – after I explained what I was trying to do, he gave me the raised Spock eyebrow and said, “You want me do to what?”
10. Original Characters or the Iconic Legends?  Personally, I believe that only William Shatner can play James T. Kirk, Leonard Nimoy can play Spock, DeForest Kelley can play Leonard McCoy – etc.  However, some folks want new stories of our beloved crew.  It’s much easier to ‘buy-in’ a group of new characters on a new ship part of the same fleet than comparing with folks onboard the Enterprise.  However, if you must do your film series on the iconic legends, please cast correctly.  For example, don’t get a Hispanic to play a clearly established Asian role.  Also, if you are considering doing a follow-up to an existing TOS episode, please consider otherwise.  There are exceptions to this, but it’s been my experience from what I’ve seen on the live action fan film side that they’re not executed well and merely come off as “fan-boy”.  Remember, SPACE IS VAST – there are infinitely more planets to explore and more aliens to encounter.

I’m sure that there are many more “lessons learned” to share, but these are the only ones I can think of at this point in time.  Again, this is my commentary and not a slight to anyone or any group.  In addition to liking Starship Farragut – I’m also a big Starship Exeter fan, and was inspired by the works of that particular film project. 

Starship Farragut were guests at the Rising-Star Sci-Fi convention in Bluefield, WV, October 21-22, 2011.  The convention attendees got a few bonuses when they attended the convention that weekend.  Rising-Star happened to fall the week after Farragut Films concluded it’s interior shots for our next film, “The Price of Anything.”  The conventioneers were treated with some exclusive behind the scenes photo’s of our filming efforts the previous weekend.

The big event happened on Friday night, when the Captain’s Chair used for filming just the week before was brought into the convention.  As soon as Michael Bednar and I brought in the chair, heads turned.  The chair was the highlight of the convention.  Everyone loved to sit in the captain’s chair and have their pictures taken with the iconic STAR TREK centerpiece!

As usual, the Farragut table was stocked with DVD’s of all of our productions (both live action and animation), fabric swatches from our uniforms, and some of the props and costumes used in filming our live-action episodes.

Mike Bednar hard at work!

On Saturday morning, Frank and Donna Parker arrived with another surprise.  The Farragut Films table area was now occupied by two large set pieces from the previous weekend’s filming — the captain’s chair and the Romulan Bridge center console (as seen in the TOS episode, “Balance of Terror”).  This was another huge hit with everyone.  The convention concluded on Saturday night.

Romulan Console

Worth the trip, this was a great event for Farragut Films.  We had never shown our captain’s chair outside of our studio in St. Marys, GA.  Michael Bednar will now make some upgrades to the chair for our next film and put some enhancements to the Romulan Bridge console.  We also made some new fans in West Virginia, and our previous fans were glad to meet us in person.

Michael Day handles all convention appearances on behalf of Farragut Films and Starship Farragut.  For those that wish to have attendance by and/or exhibition by us, please contact Michael Day (mday@starshipfarragut.com).

The phaser is a solid resin casting – unsure of the origin of this particular casting; however, this phaser version was used in the Star Trek Deep Space Nine episode, “Trials and Tribbleations”; it is currently sold in both build-ups and kit form at Roddenberry.com. 

Although a very clean casting, it did require some clean-up and filling in of some air bubbles.  The phaser 1 dark grey color is a custom-color that Mike creates and airbrushes on.  The main body is painted with Kyrlon Shadow Grey and the Handle is painted with Rustoleum Metallic Bronze.  Aluminum accents were masked off and painted with silver or some hand brush painting.  Other hand painting included the phaser I release knob (copper/bronze) and the 10-turn knob dial part (black). 

Mike’s reputation for quality work speaks for itself.  Shipping this beautiful prop replica was a bitter-sweet task as I wanted to keep it for myself, but glad that it was going back to Michael Mazzacano – another good guy.  I know that Michael will cherish his new “Bednar.”

Last week’s shoot of the Starship Farragut live-action film, “THE PRICE OF ANYTHING” was a huge success.  Folks had fun; we got all the shots needed within schedule and with great performances of the actors.

Despite this being our most ambitious from project to date with rising production expenses, we were able to continue with our best business practices of providing meals to folks, giving away expensive & accurate Star Trek costumes to ALL actors, as well as appropriate crew attire for the behind-the-scenes folks.  This is one differentiator that we pride ourselves, as well as treating everyone with mutual respect and valuing their volunteered efforts.

For me, this episode was the culmination of more than six years of what I envisioned the production should go – talented crew professionals working with the latest technology and proven camera, lighting and audio equipment, as well as prepared actors giving their best performance on accurate sets and wearing exacting uniform replicas to get that look and feel of 1960’s STAR TREK. We had an outstanding Director with film experience to evoke the best performances out of us.  Vic validated a belief I’ve had for some time that knowing lines and having done rehearsals is simply not enough — you also need a Director that provides clear “direction” and communicates to the actor in a way that he or she understands what is being asked; is able to change lines without changing the intent of the screenplay; and understands all the dynamics of that which is “film-making.”  Vic Mignogna is such a person.

Well over a year ago, I was trying to bring on a Director to film this effort and spoke with Paul Sieber, the writer of this screenplay.  I had known of this “Vic Mignogna” for awhile —- he had worked with Michael Struck of NEO f/x on Starship Farragut: The Animated Episodes and heard positive things of his work with Star Trek Phase II.  I asked Paul about Vic and he confirmed his work, adding, “he is a Actor’s Director.”  I wasn’t sure what exactly that meant, other than it sounded good.  It wasn’t until the first day of filming when the shuttlecraft set was getting ready for filming with the camera and lights, Vic wanted to go over the scene with the actors involved to talk about the scene.  We went into the transporter room set, we sat down, – I immediately closed my script book and tossed it down.  A lot of personal preparation for this dramatic shoot and for me it was a moment of setting the tone with the Director.  “I got this – I know my lines and I don’t need it” type of thing.  You see, earlier on after getting Vic on-board, I explained my frustration on the acting side of this project.  I had an idea to remove my character very early on in the teaser and having the plot of estranged and bitter family relationship take place with Smithfield’s brother.  After explaining all of this, Vic relayed that since I created the series and the Captain Carter was pivotal to the series, his departure should not just be an after thought.  Whereas any other person may have just accepted what I initially proposed, Vic understood where I was coming from and offered an alternative solution, adding “If you know your lines and are prepared, I will bring out the best in you and you can make this film on a high note.”  Without sounding like a cliche, I was intrigued by the challenge.  If I could leave on a high note and have folks wanting more of my character – why not?!

Getting back to the transporter room and going over the shuttlecraft scene —– it was during this discussion that I understood what Paul was referring to of Vic being an “Actor’s Director.”  Whereas I had my own thoughts of what the character was thinking and doing, Vic would throw in something else that would enhance the performance.  I think that if you asked anyone actor involved in this production, they’d say the exact same thing.  In fact, I’d challenge you to find someone who didn’t agree with me.  When I left the transporter room to film the first scene, I felt like a true actor ready to go and best of all, I WAS HAVING FUN in the process.

An epiphany moment came after we were done filming and numerous folks independent from each other were giving me compliments on my performance.  You see this episode has some serious drama for Captain Carter and his father.  Frank Hernandez who plays my father, also gave great performances and the chemistry between both Frank and me also leveraged well on-screen.  Adulation continued to be heard from folks – as well as emotional reactions of folks watching the performances being filmed.

Another epiphany came when Vic told me to just “think it” and not to react.  I would do just that and after a take was done and I was questioning about how it went because I wasn’t feeling it – Vic had me come back to the monitor and had the footage replayed for me.  After I saw it first hand, I was blown away.

Contemplating the Future

Thanks is More Than Just Words…

Thanks to me seems like a word that doesn’t fully convey my full appreciation to everyone.  I know that I personally thanked everyone for their contributions, and I will thank folks again by quoting President John Kennedy who said, “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.”  In addition, I will add that it is a great feeling to have created something has evolved into greatness that attracts and brings out the best in people  where they bring their own specific contribution to the production.  Each person is like a piece of the puzzle and when everyone is put together, the picture is complete.  Recognizing this, as well as the talents/contributions of folks – is a feeling that doesn’t come everyday and one that I will cherish forever.  Starship Farragut is more than an ensemble cast and crew who have come together to make episodes of “Star Trek,” we are a family.

Special Acknowledgements:

Tonya - Moretti Cameo and Make-up

Tonya – To my supportive and loving wife! You believe in me and it’s great to have you nearby on the sets. It takes a lot of time, energy, and commitment in order to make this film effort a huge success, and you’re always incredibly understanding. Thanks for being an integral part of this film. A big thank you to my kids for being understanding of Daddy having to work on this film effort. Outstanding work on make-up and love the cameo!

Mr. Tacket Manning the Science Scanner

Mike – A daunting task, you delivered on the promise of sets.  When they were fully lit – walking on them felt “right” and they were gorgeous!  Your level of commitment went above and beyond the call of duty – many thanks and I salute you.  ONE of the GREATEST guys in the world – I’m honored and blessed to be taking this TREK with you.  Without sounding trite, the friendship we have is grounded like that of Kirk and Spock and we got to see a bit of that come through with the Captain’s Chair scene.

Very much at home, Director Vic Mignogna

Vic – I appreciate the fact that you’re consistent (no negative surprises); you’re also  patient with folks.  I observed you work with folks on their performance and you have the gift of personal interaction with people to bring out the best in them performance wise.  I’ve learned a lot from you about acting and eternally grateful.  I now have a new outlook on the profession and no longer abhor the ‘craft’ as I did before.  You kept your word and I kept mine and magic was made.  CLASSIC TREK NOW!

Smithfield at Engineering Station

Holly – It’s always refreshing to see you film.  A true professional, you always know your lines and ready to deliver.  Like I mentioned before, there was some true “McCoy” or more appropriately Smithfield moments that came over extremely well.  I look forward to filming the dramatic scene with you in LA.  Also, thanks again for handling casting and HR for us; nice additions of Laurel Seymour and Doug Nemeth.

Doug Nemeth & Laurel Seymour

Our Director of Photography, Matt Bucy

Matt – You’re a god on the camera and with lights.  For the first time in almost 50 years, people can finally see Star Trek again.  When you’re looking at your footage and trying to figure out what Classic Trek episode was being filmed, you know you got it!  Also, the dolly shots and above the bridge shots are great – fans are going to love it!

The Multi-Talented Ralph Miller

Ralph – It was great to hang out with you again.  Like Vic, you’re a true kindred spirit of Classic Trek and all-around great guy.  Great talent and thank you for the numerous contributions that extended outside of just “audio”.

Jack Marshall & Kasey Shafsky

Jack – You said we’d be working together and were right.  You were a valued element to this production and I cannot imagine us doing it without you.  I really got a chance to observe you in action and what a professional.  I look forward to working with you again.  It was also nice to have you keep an upbeat tone on set with your humor.  I shall now refer to you as “The Mighty Marshall!”

Kasey – You’ve done a helluva job as Line Producer.  Thanks for keeping things going well and orderly.  I also liked playing “Good Cop” to your “Bad Cop”!

Sam Rooks, Farragut Films' Lighting Guy

Sam – Only you could convince me to part with my beloved Farragut Films ball-cap.  Thanks for your contributions and look forward to working with you on the exterior shoot very soon.

Professional & Strong Ethical Actor, Frank Hernandez

Frank Hernandez – I told you that you would not be disappointed.  As you can tell, we operate differently from other outfits and pride ourselves on our professionalism.  Thank you so much for playing opposite me.  In a lot of respects, I think that we’re very much alike in terms of doing what you say and being professional.  I love your wit and you as a person and although you play my father, consider you my brother in life.

LT Stahler Receiving Starfleet Orders

Greg Greene – Our Set Team Leader – thanks for taking care of our home.  It was a delight to see you play Communications Officer, LT Stahler.  It’s been awhile since my stomach was in pain of laughing so much!    

Royal Weaver Perfoming Just One of Many Crew Tasks

Royal and Ron – Thanks for everything done behind-the-scenes.  We wouldn’t have been able to make this film without your guys’ involvement.  Nice to also see some folks not requiring to be in front of the camera to be involved.  Royal, you always go beyond the call of duty to help and willing to pinch in for whatever task – we also appreciate you making  the magic of TREK’s sliding doors a reality. 

ROMULANS!

Donna and Frank Parker – Thanks to you both for making the Romulan uniforms.  Your work enabled to truly showcase the newly built Romulan bridge set and make those scenes more powerful and in the venue of STAR TREK’s “Balance of Terror”.

Laura Shafsky – My stomach and the crew’s stomach thanks you for handling catering for us!

Brit is ready for action!

Brit – Thanks for being part of this shoot.  You quickly became part of the team and assisted folks with camera operations.  Also thankful for taking photographs for us.

Katrina – Without your help, the SAG and other administrative forms would not have been filled out by folks.  With everything else going on, I totally dropped the ball on getting with folks – thanks for stepping up.

Ensign Morris Steering the Ship

Dean – My man Dean!  It was good to see Ensign Morris on the Farragut bridge again.  Thanks for being our “official photographer” and along with Brit, documenting our film shoot.

Tacket's New Nemesis

Cheralyn Lambeth – Glad that you made our Romulan Commander come to life.  I have a feeling that Commander Tacket has not seen the last of her!

LT Logan in Command

Gina Hernandez – Thanks for playing LT Logan, as well as supporting Frank on his Special Guest Star role.

Dan Scanlon – Thanks for all the hard work on the sets, as well as doing boom mike and fog machine!

Bob & Amy McDonough — Good to see you guys.  Wish that we could have spent more time together.  Thanks Amy for assisting Tonya with make-up duties.

Doc Holley in her Sickbay Office

Chief Galway Manning the Transporter Room

For all the other actors, Laurel Seymour, Doug Nemeth, Matt Jones, Brian Watson and John Sims — Danke, Grazie, and Merci Beaucoup!

Farragut Films' Corporate Sponsor

W.H. Gross Construction Company – Sincere thanks to our corporate sponsor.  Bill – from everyone involved with Starship Farragut – much gratitude for making St. Marys our home.  Our partnership started almost 3 years ago and it has been a great one – we will continue to do what we can to bring awareness to St, Marys so that its no longer the best kept secret on the East Coast.

Kim (and Brian) – Many thanks to you for championing us.  Because of you, our Farragut family has gotten much larger, including you guys.

Paul Sieber –Thanks for writing the script.  You will be blown away when you see it realized on screen!

Michael Struck, Michael Day, Mark Hildebrand, Marie Cook, Kim Haas, Michael Cowart, Eve Gidion, and Allen Batson – Although you were not present at the film shoot, you were there in spirit.  Thanks again to your contributions to this production.

Last, but certainly not least — thanks to my Mom who watched over our kids while Tonya and I played Star Trek and who helped me with some costuming support of hand-stitching, seam ripping and sewing of some patches.

Best Cast & Crew Ever

Sincere admiration and respect to the entire cast & crew of Starship Farragut.  When folks finally see THE PRICE OF ANYTHING, I genuinely believe that they will agree that it’s the best yet for not only Starship Farragut, but for all CLASSIC-TREK fan films to date.  Looking forward to doing the exterior shoot with folks in Los Angeles real soon!  Farragut Films – Setting the Standard.

Broughton Family on Set

Sets
Many of our hard-working and dedicated volunteers from what we’ve begin referring to as “Farragut-Southeast Operations,” our St. Marys and Jacksonville volunteers, have been working to finalize and details our TREK SETS.  According to Project Manager of Set Construction, Producer Mike Bednar states, “This film will premiere some sets not seen in any Star Trek fan film to date, which we’re proud to debut.”  We plan to showcase them as a surprise in the movie.

Todd Haberkorn

Todd Haberkorn
As mentioned in my last blog update, we’ve got some new folks involved in this production, including Todd Haberkorn who will also play a Romulan Soldier.  The actor originally committed to playing this role backed out, which turned out to be a blessing in disguise.  Todd is no stranger to the film or entertainment industry, being an accomplished and  well-known voice actor for anime and video games, as well as acting in independent films.  Todd received his acting degree from Southern Methodist University and continues to work professionally primarily in Los Angeles and Texas.  With his wealth of professional experience,  Todd brings a greater strength and powerful presence to the character that we would not have had otherwise.  I look forward to working with him.

Kasey Shafsky, Line Producer

Kasey Shafsky – Line Producer/Production Manager
As our Line Producer, Kasey will be our ‘bull-dog’ to ensure all goes well!  He has been employed in the San Fransisco Bay Area for the last 19 years as a shooter, editor and director. He has shot and edited for video game companies, Silicon Valley computer corporations, start-ups, and venture capital companies. For the last eight years, he has held the role of Manager of Video Operations for a multi-million dollar business education corporation in Silicon Valley. Kasey directs live four camera shoots at 13 three day conferences a year. He also leads his team with editing, compressing and distribution of course material online. He has won a Telly award for his creation of a nutritional education video for middle schools presented by Sun-Maid. Kasey worked with Matt Bucy and Vic Mignogna on the Star Trek Phase 2 episode “The Protracted Man” (aka “Origins”).

Fellow STAR TREK Costumers Lend a Hand
Dr. Eve Gidion, Michael Cowart, and Donna Parker have joined our project to assist with wardrobe.  They will augment our wardrobe ensemble consisting of Marie Cook, Cheryl Thomas-Smith, and John Sims.  We’re honored to have the support and contributions of these fine folks.

Dr. Eve Gidion

Michael Cowart

Donna and Frank Parker

Safe to say that we’re all very excited about this film!  Working with folks like Frank Hernandez, Vic Mignoga, Matt Bucy, Todd Haberkorn and the other Farraguteers we’ll make this film our most ambitious episode to date and take the Starship Farragut project to the next level.  Stay tuned for a lot of good things coming from Farragut Films and the Starship Farragut folks.

New Prop Displays

Michael Day and Mark Hildebrand

During this CON appearance, we did two showings of the newly released, “JUST PASSING THROUGH.”  Director Mark Hildbrand spoke and answered fans’ questions about re-filming a previously completed work that hadn’t been released publicly; fans’ reactions to the film were positive.

Frank and Gina Hernandez in "Mirror, Mirror" COSPLAY

Shore Leave regulars, Frank and Gina Hernandez attended and fully represented in COSPLAY.  I was able to spend some quality time working with Frank’s costume for the upcoming Starship Farragut episode, “THE PRICE OF ANYTHING”, which Franks plays CAPT Carter’s father, Gene.

Trek Fan in COSPLAY (Way to Eden)

At our show table, DVDs of all Starship Farragut work were available for pick-up, including the new “JUST PASSING THROUGH.”  Fans also loved going through the photo book containing set construction pics showing from start to finish.  Seeing and interacting with fans is always a delight.  Farragut fan Sean Davis from Carroll County said, “I came here just for this.”

Let’s publicly kick-off the next Starship Farragut feature episode!  Called “The Price of Anything” —- it was initially written by Paul R. Sieber in 2007 prior to leaving Farragut Films to work with Star Trek Phase II. Having co-written Starship Farragut’s pilot, “The Captaincy,” this story (previously entitled, “Fathers and Sons”) had carry-over elements from the pilot and was a Carter/Prescott story.  Since then, Paul has revised and enhanced it greatly.  We collectively believe it’s the right story now, coupled with perfect timing to finally execute on this film and bring this adventurous story to life.

For our most ambitious film to date, we have brought on-board some key individuals that will be instrumental in making this film a success. Starting with the behind-the-scenes professionals, we have:

Vic Mignogna – Director and Special Guest Star

No stranger to Starship Farragut, Vic Mignogna has lent his voice to Starship Farragut: The Animated Episodes. Since he was 8 years old, Vic has been acting for stage and screen, but in the last 13 years Vic has become one of the most prolific and popular voice actors in the world of animation and video games, lending his voice to over a hundred and fifty productions. Even longer than his voice acting, Vic has been a professional music composer / singer / producer who has written and produced hundreds of songs for TV, radio and CD.

At a very early age, Vic developed a passion for Star Trek The Original Series (TOS). Many days were spent, memorizing episodes, building communicators, phasers, costumes, and even rounding up the kids in the neighborhood for Star Trek movies that Vic shot, directed, and played Captain Kirk. In the years that followed, Vic earned a film degree and works regularly writing, producing, and directing all kinds of video and film productions. Nothing brings him more joy than bringing his skills and childhood love together, and after directing and acting in several Star Trek Phase II episodes, Vic is excited to be working with Starship Farragut on the live action series. In addition to directing, Vic will have a special guest role on film!

Matt Bucy – Director of Photography

Matt Bucy is enthusiastic about getting behind the lights and camera for Starship Farragut. He has worked in film and video for forty years on projects ranging from Super-8 experimental shorts to backyard SCI-FI to 35mm mainstream features. Most recently, he won Best Cinematography and Best Picture awards in the Vermont 48-Hour Film Festival for the short “Razor Burn.” Over the last two years he has completed photography and editing on the feature documentary, “The Sons of Tennessee Williams,” which has screened to sold-out houses at Frameline in San Francisco and at the Palm Springs International Film Festival, and which will make its television premiere on PBS in New Orleans this spring. For the past three years, he has volunteered at Star Trek Phase II as a grip, camera operator, and director of photography. He produces and directs behind-the-scenes documentaries, most recently the Seattle-based feature “Judas Kiss,” to be released this year. His film interests range widely and his award-winning experimental work has been screened frequently at underground festivals. Over the past year, he has completed photography on several shorts, including “The Tryout,” “Dear Edward,” “Razor Burn,” and “Violin Case” and is scheduled to shoot more short projects this year starting in March.

Todd Habercorn – Assistant Director

Todd Haberkorn has been involved with film productions for many years – attacking the industry from all aspects – in front of, as well as behind the camera. For “The Price of Anything,” Todd will be lending his Assistant Director experience to the project. When he isn’t working on live action projects, Todd is a voice actor for video games and anime. Some of his most recent video game titles include Rune Factory 3, Lufia: Curse of the Sinestrials, and Lux Pain while his recent anime projects are Dragon Ball Z, Full Metal Alchemist: Brotherhood, and Summer Wars. Todd also travels the country as a guest to anime conventions and enjoys meeting fans of the titles he has worked on in the animated world. His media company, Out of the Office Productions, keeps him busy as well with independent features as well as industrial work.

Sam Rooks – Lighting Gaffer

Sam Rooks is a local Jacksonville photographer and filmmaker, with a passion towards producing. He has been involved in many areas of film-making, including producer, property master, and electric gaffer. Sam was an extra in the movie “Lonely Hearts” starring John Travolta, as well as HBO’s “Recount” starring Kevin Spacey, where he was a political consultant to Producer Mike Hausman. He has photographed the Miss America First Coast Pageant and the Miss & Teen Jacksonville U.S.A. Pageants, produced such short films as “Within the Heart of a Child” and “Grandma and the Fly” and was dolly gaffer on the short film “Planting Hope” produced for Jacksonville’s domestic violence shelter, Hubbard House. Sam has been instrumental in equipping all sets with lighting and set construction.

Guy Davis – Animator and Storyboard Artist

G.S. (Guy) Davis is a comic book artist/animator living in colorful Colorado. He holds a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Animation, with a specialization in 2D (Hand drawn) animation. Having learned how much he loved to tell stories, Guy began writing comics in 1995. Not much has changed since then and today he still tells stories, working away on his current project: a Star Trek fan comic about the life and times of a Federation Destroyer called “Tamerlane” (http://www.usstamerlane.com). Currently, Guy is working on the Tamerlane episode “Weave.”  In addition to doing the storyboards for Starship Farragut’s “Just Passing Through”, he has worked extensively on both of the Animated Farragut episodes with NEO f/x.

These are just some of the key folks behind the camera that will be working on this film; I will mention others on another blog update (e.g., Sound Engineer, post-production team NEO f/x) such as our Line Producer (Production Manager), which I will personally be relying upon greatly on this effort!

In front of the camera, we have some newcomers to us, but known to others.

Frank Hernandez – Gene Carter

Born in Manhattan, NY and raised in Jackson, NJ where he still resides with his wife Gina, Frank Hernandez began his acting career by auditioning for a local theatrical production of “1776”. From there, his roles included “Carl, the Bus Driver” in “Bus Stop” and “Mendel, the Rabbi’s Son” in “Fiddler on the Roof” later followed roles in “Our Town”, “The Importance of Being Earnest” and the Ocean Country College production of “1776.” Since moving from local community theatre to media, Frank has been on the set of many television and movie productions, but is more widely recognized for his portrayal of the character “Declan” in “Star Wars: Revelations.” Frank also played “Agamemnon” in the episode “Greece” in the series “Engineering an Empire” on the History Channel and can also be seen in many of the second season episodes of the Science Channel show “Sci-Fi Science physics of the impossible.” Not a newcomer to Farragut Films, Frank plays “Suarez” is in United Worlds Entertainment’s SCI-FI film, “POLARIS,” which Farragut Films is working in association. As an avid Star Trek fan, Frank is very excited to be working with us on this production where he will play Captain Carter’s father, Gene and will have an instrumental part in this film.

Cheralyn Lambeth – Romulan Commander

Cheralyn’s acting pursuits include working in various commercials, as well as TV shows, including “One Tree Hill,” the Sci-Fi Channel show “IQ 145,” an episode of the CNN International program “Future Summit,” and the film “The Key Man” (alongside Jack Davenport of Pirates of the Caribbean). She was also a principal character in the History Channel docudrama “Isaac’s Storm,” which premiered in the fall of 2004 and can still sometimes be seen on The History Channel (THC).

Somewhat fascinating is Cheralyn’s impressive costume work.  She began creating her own costumes and creatures at an early age, when her mother finally refused to make any more odd costumes for her at Halloween. Cheralyn carried this passion with her into college at UNC-Chapel Hill where, after having failed miserably as an Air Force Reservist, she decided to major in something much more useful such as Dramatic Arts and Radio/TV/Motion Pictures. Shortly after graduation, Cheralyn relocated to New York to study costumes, wigs, and make-up at the Juilliard School, and earned her first fifteen minutes of fame performing Off-Broadway with John Leguizamo in Mambo Mouth. She then moved to Minneapolis to help create Muppet costumes for Sesame Street Live! (as well as a large purple bunny for the film The Net), and returned to New York a year later to work with Jim Henson Productions on the TV series Dinosaurs! and the film The Muppet Christmas Carol.  After her time at Henson, Cheralyn worked with Paramount Production Services, creating costumes and props for Paramount properties such as The Star Trek Earth Tour, Titanic: The Movie on Tour, and Star Trek: The Experience at the Las Vegas Hilton. Some of her other credits include work (both in front of and behind the camera) on Mel Gibson`s The Patriot, and costuming work on the Park Service historical film Manassas: End of Innocence directed by Star Wars sound specialist Ben Burtt. In addition to her costume work, Cheralyn has served as play-tester for the Star Wars RPG Mission to Lianna, and has written articles for such genre-related periodicals as Bjo Trimble’s Sci-Fi Spotlight and Con-Tour Magazine. Cheralyn’s most recent costume work includes the New Line Cinema feature film The New World starring Colin Farrell, and Evan Almighty (the sequel to Bruce Almighty). She currently lives in Charlotte NC and works as a free-lance costume/prop/puppet builder, as well as putting the finishing touches on her first book The Well-Dressed Puppet, scheduled for release later this year.

Brian Holloway – Romulan Soldier

Brian began his theatre career at age seven when he appeared in a regional theatrical production of “Fiddler on the Roof” with his father. Although he worked on other productions, he dabbled in the medical field for a short time, but could not be kept away from the bright lights and appeal of the stage. After receiving his BFA in Performance Arts, he toured nationally with several theatre organizations for about seven years and could be seen headlining in Productions ranging from Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing” and “Henry IV, parts I & II” to musicals like “Big River”, “Man of La Mancha”, “Kiss Me, Kate” and “Jekyll & Hyde.”

He got into the SCI-FI realm when he was still in high school and has been a regular convention attendee since he was 15. He has also received theater degrees in costume and makeup design and has won National and regional awards for his design work. He even had costume designs for an original theatrical piece “HOTLINE!” displayed at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC. While in Utah, he was fortunate to befriend an actress, Paula Crist, who served as an actress and stuntwoman for productions like “Star Trek: The Motion Picture,” “Battlestar Galactica,” and the TV series “Planet of the Apes.” Paula got him connected to the film industry and he has been fortunate enough to land limited work in such productions as “The Patriot,” “Last of the Mohicans,” “Domestic Disturbance,” “Doctor Who: The Movie,” HIGHLANDER: The Series,” “Shallow Hal,” and Star Trek. Brian is currently the Special Make-Up F/X Supervisor for Star Trek: Phase II. Brian now lives in Charlotte, NC and is also a noted costumer working with fellow Cheralyn Lambeth, the 501st Squadron, and SCA Wardrobe Guild.

On behalf of the Farragut Films’ management team, “Welcome Aboard!”

Again, these are just some of the many folks that will be working on “The Price of Anything.” Future blog updates will provide introductory remarks for other key folks, as well as progress reports and happenings.  Damn the torpedoes, warp speed ahead!

Stay tuned for the next blog on MEGA-KHHAAAAANNNN! I mean, MEGA-CON.  

The first one was Katsucon, an anime convention at the National Harbor’s Gaylord Hotel in Washington, D.C. where newcomer Vic Mignogna —- Director and Special Guest Star of Starship Farragut’s fifth film, THE PRICE OF ANYTHING (POA) was one of the star attractions.  Starship Farragut producer Michael Day and I met with Vic, as well as Todd Habercorn and briefly discussed pre-production work for POA and provided Starship Farragut collateral and posters for Vic to hand out over the weekend.  During Katsucon, Vic passed out plenty of POA posters and 8X10’s of him as “KIRK” on Farragut Films’ transporter room set.

Katuscon 2011 - Todd, Vic, JB and Michael Day

Vic said:

“I was excited to share my upcoming involvement on Farragut with the fans at Katsucon in DC this past weekend. The fans were quite excited about it, and are looking forward to seeing “The Price Of Anything”! Thanks to John Broughton, I had some awesome Farragut posters available at my autograph sessions all weekend. The fans ate them up! I can say with great certainty that an increasing number of my fans will be tuning in to the upcoming Farragut production!”

Kicking Off Farragut's 5th Film with Director Vic

At Farpoint in Baltimore, Michael Day, Mark Hildebrand, Eric Lund and newcomer Chris Call represented Starship Farragut.

Mark Hildebrand & Eric Lund - Farpoint 2011

Michael Day & Eric Lund - Farpoint 2011

Other Farragut friends, Dennis Bailey, Frank and Gina Hernandez and Paul Sieber stopped by to show support.  Michael Day said, “It was another great year at Farpoint, marking our 6^th year attending.”  Michael also added:

The premiere of our latest crew log, “Just Passing Through”, was our main attraction.  We had two showings of the movie to enthusiastic crowds.  To quote one fan who had seen the previous version, “So much improved, I understand why you re-filmed it.”  As an encore from last year, we also showed both of our Starship Farragut – The Animated Episodes:  “The Needs of the Many” and “Power Source”.  At the table, we had copies of our comic book, “Dearly Departed” which premiered at last year’s Farpoint.  As usual, we had DVD’s of our previous movies, posters, and candy to give out to fans.  Special thanks to Dan Smith for making special caricature posters of our gallant Farragut trio – they were well received by folks.  Also, thanks to Tom Donnelly, Steve and Renee Wilson, and the entire Farpoint crew; we look forward to attending next year.

At TREK TRAX in Atlanta, Mike and Holly Bednar, Gary and Terri Washington, and I attended the group’s first solo event outside of Dragon-Con.

Starship Farragut's Three Amigos

Holly Bednar & Fan - TREK TRAX 2011

Ms. and Mr. Frank Parker, Teri & Gary Washington

Eric Watts & TREK TRAX Crew

Spearheaded by Eric Watts, the convention was supported by the USS Republic, a Star Trek club with which Eric is associated.  Newcomer Farraguteer, Brian Holloway (Guest Star in POA) directed the costuming track, where I participated in numerous forums, along with Michael Cowart, Lee Cox, and Eve Gideon.

Costumers Eve Gidion & John Broughton

Costumers Michael Cowart & Lee Cox

Costuming forums ranged from a variety of topics such as wearing Rubies or ANOVOS uniforms, Trek themed variations, costume disasters, and the costumer’s best friend – the Thrift Store.  Later on, the three of us (Mike, Holly and me) were judges in TREK TRAX’s costume contest.  It was nice to see appreciation towards the costumes, which always seems to take 2nd place to props or sets. 

Speaking of props, Mike Bednar also participated on a prop panel, along with Michael Cowart.

'Prop Talk' - Michael Bednar & Michael Cowart

Like Farpoint this weekend, we will also premiered “JUST PASSING THROUGH” to the TREK TRAX attendees.  The response was very favorable.

Premiering "Just Passing Through"

One quote from a fan, “You guys really deliver on putting out good TREK films.”  We couldn’t agree more; with a studio ready with TREK Sets, additional key crew professionals onboard, and no backlog of filmed footage in post-production, we’re ready to dive in POA!

The Next Generation of STAR TREK Fans

TREK TRAX’s special guest celebrities included the Duras Klingon sisters’ Gwynyth Walsh and Barbara March, Tim Russ (Tuvok from Star Trek Voyager), and Larry Nemechek.

Talking with TREKLAND's Larry Nemecek

Since Tim Russ worked with NEO f/x on Starship Farragut – The Animated Episodes providing the voice of the Vulcan Tamar in THE NEEDS OF THE MANY, I provided some DVDs of Farragut’s animated to him.

Discussing 'Animated' with the Live Action Tim Russ

Other Farragut supporters stopped by – John Sims and wife, Frank Parker and wife, and Chris Wieder.

John Sims & Wife with Romulan Brian Holloway

Mike, Holly and I agree that this was one of the best TREK convention experiences we’ve had.  Eric Watts and his convention team were professional, organized, and worked cohesively like a well-oiled machine.  Eric goes the extra mile with showing appreciation for folks’ participation.  Special thanks to Brian Holloway for also making the Farragut team feel like home.  We look forward to TREK TRAX 2012.

All in all, a very busy convention weekend!

During this particular meeting, I shared with the team that I plan to step down as “actor Captain” and focus more on the creative direction of Starship Farragut.  When I conceived this project, I had no idea the amount of work and effort required to be an effective actor.  My background/education is not in the fine arts of drama – an area that I underestimated when this project began almost six years ago.  Having gone through the process though, I have a better understanding and a foundation for the craft.

The Starship Farragut project is one that is stabilized.  In the next few months, will be working with Mike Bednar to see about transitioning day-to-day operations and oversight over to him.  We’ll be examining and assessing how this will actually work and better define areas of responsibility.  My thinking here is and if I can make an analogy, just as Rick Berman handled the daily oversight of Star Trek: The Next Generation initially, Gene Roddenberry was more involved in the creative direction of the series and characters.  Working with the respective actors, I will lend my thoughts and vision for the series.  In other words, I’ll still be involved, but in a lesser role than before.

NOTE:  We are in pre-production of a film called “The Price of Anything,” which we are still moving forward with filming scheduled for October.  This film  will show the transfer of command from Carter to Tacket; I’ll  be working to refine the script to reflect this transition.  All actors engaged at present are still planning to be involved as previously planned.

Also, I’ll  be focusing more of my attention on Farragut Films.  Another analogy, just as Desilu/Paramount Studios was the film studio company that made Star Trek, so is Farragut Films to Starship Farragut.  There are some exciting opportunities lined up that further promotes the Starship Farragut project, both directly and indirectly, and broaden our portfolio of other film and media-based efforts.  I shared one idea at the meeting, which everyone was excited about and will be sharing more of Farragut Films 2011-2012 roadmap at February’s meeting.  In addition, I’ll be working on some small projects that will enable me the opportunity to direct films and potentially direct a Starship Farragut episode in the future.

I believe that Farragut Films has set some precedents in the independent fan film community, and we will continue to do so in a greater capacity this year.  Farragut Films had a great 2010 as we worked successfully with United Worlds Entertainment on the POLARIS film, a non-TREK and original SCI-FI film that I’m confident will be a great INDY film.  As part of this effort, we’ve extended our involvement with the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) on our signatory agreement.  As part of working with the local community, we’ve worked with W.H. Gross Construction Company and the Office of Economic Development of St. Marys to promote that area for living, business, and tourism —- and make it not the ‘best kept secret on the East Coast’.  ‘We’ve also worked with ANOVOS Productions and KRH Embroidery.  Rounding off the year, we celebrated five years collaborating with NEO f/x – a long term and mutually beneficial partnership – we look forward to more years down the road.

2010 was a great year and 2011 looks even more promising.  Happy New Year to all!

Farragut Films – “Setting the Standard.”

The Farragut Bridge - 11/13/10

This weekend in particular, Mike Bednar, Dennis Bailey, Dennis Stines and me traveled down to Farragut Films’ Studio One in St. Marys, GA.  Team Lead, Greg Greene and the rest of the set construction crew, Ron Simkavich, Royal Weaver, and Sam Rooks – they’ve all been working to have the final framing built for the bridge set (minus the bridge railing) and have prepped and primed our main standing set ready for painting this weekend.

Dennis Stines recommended the Hollywood approach of painting the sets — not with rollers, but with a professional sprayers.   A long-time friend and Farragut supporter, Dennis brought his paint sprayer and showed us how to efficiently paint the sets.

During this weekend’s working party, an assortment of folks stopped by to show support – Mark Hildebrand (Director), Craig Franco (Sound Engineer and Foley Artist), Marie Cook (Wardrobe Assistant), Dan Scanlon (Florida Times Union Reporter), and newcomer Katrina (set custodian).

Off topic, Mark Hildebrand showed excerpts from his latest film project, Semper Paratus.  Since the completion of Semper Paratus, Mark has resumed efforts with Michael Struck of NEO f/x on “Just Passing Through”.  The release date of “Just Passing Through” is scheduled for early next year.

Painting film sets with a sprayer is definitely the way to go – clearly, you can cut down the painting time by up to 75%and the results are very professional.  Masking off different colored areas, it went from one color to the next.  The sprayer also allowed for more productive use of people’s time as while we had to wait for paint to dry, we focused efforts on other tasks, and then went to Doc’s House of Chicken and Waffles – a nice St. Marys’ restaurant in St. Mary’s – just across the street from Studio One.

Sitting back with friends and catching up on life – it’s truly an ‘esprit de corps’ on Farragut Films.  This project is fun with dedicated folks who are family and friends.

A Great Crew

The following pictures show the painted bridge set to date.

Dennis Stines (Navigation), Dennis Bailey (Helm), John and Mike

Dennis Bailey who assisted on sets for the first time observed, “Working and seeing other Star Trek sets, I was most impressed with the skill of carpentry approached on Farragut’s;  the sets are strong and very well built – no squeaks when you walk on them and they’ll perform well for a long time.  The crew folks working the sets are amazing and dedicated group of people.  Very low stress and fun all day.”

We’re on course for our Open House Event on Saturday, December 4^th from 10 AM to 4 PM at Farragut Films’ Studio One in St. Marys, GA.   Come on out and see them for yourself!