Heidi Philipsen

Curiosity and Jeff Burns

2011-12-23T17:44:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite things to do is ask questions. Now, I don’t know if I became a journalist for a time because I love to ask questions, or if journalism fostered my curiosity for people, things and events.

In any event, I find that both propel both a sense of livelihood in my community and the thrill of keeping my finger on the pulse of the times.

I joined Open Stage Media’s production of “IMPACT” at Proctor’s TV because I couldn’t wait to begin asking questions of local “do-ers” in the arts around upstate, New York.

Jeff Burns, a local filmmaker and originator of the new dynamic web series “Super Knocked Up” -- about a female super-villain who is knocked up by a womanizing superhero – recently joined me on Impact to tell me about the origins of the idea, the journey in making a web-series, as well as the trials and tribulations of being an upstate indie filmmaker.

Check it out!

Impact with "Super Knocked Up" web series filmmaker, Jeff Burns

2011-12-09T16:24:00.000-08:00

Jeff Burns

What if a female super villain was knocked up by a hero?

Such is the terrific and insanely humorous premise behind upstate filmmaker, Jeff Burns, latest work – all plotted out terrifically in a web series, bound to keep you glued to the computer for months to come.

I invited Jeff to the Impact studio, recently, to pick his brain a bit about this creative genius.

I'll post that interview soon -- in the meantime, enjoy the mini interview below!

In addition, for a bit of fun, I’ve included an extra interview below:

1.) If you could be reincarnated, what would you come back as?

Spider-Man! Then I could be a superhero. And I'd have Spidey-Sense to warn me of danger :)

2.) Where would you most like to live, if not upstate?

Hmm, tough choice. Maybe LA since everything movie-related takes place there. And I've been twice and really dig it there. Also, London, which I loved. Then I could go to The Globe whenever I wanted and see the most amazing performance of Shakespeare all the time.

3.) What are your greatest strengths?

My perseverance. Something I think you have to have as a filmmaker. I'll always find a way to move forward and complete my project. Also, I think I'm really good at organizing things and being a leader. Assembling amazing teams of actors and crew. All things a director needs.

4.) What are your most embarrassing faults?

I still lack confidence sometimes. I'm a lot more confident, particularly in my filmmaking skills, now than when I started. But that's something I'm still working on. Also, I have a thing for girls who dress up in superhero costumes. But c'mon, who doesn't?

5.) What is your favorite genre of filmmaking?

Sci-fi and Fantasy! Without a doubt. Although I'm also an action junkie. But I absolutely love sci-fi and fantasy films. Star Wars, The Terminator, Back to the Future, all that stuff is so awesome!

If you have any questions for Jeff, feel free to send them my way and I’ll include his answers in an upcoming Blog!

2011-11-30T10:40:00.000-08:00

The life of an actor, whether it be that of the theater stage or film set, can be both an exciting, but also a lonely life – punctuated, of course, by moments of sheer panic and self-loathing when trying to make a decent wage following what is one’s dream.

Actually, it often reminds me of the time when I was a competitive swimmer. You train numerous hours, both alone, and in a group, only to wait countless hours for your big moment when you get on a platform and spring into action for what, in the end, is really only a couple of minutes, seconds even. Months of work all summed up in one exhilaratingly spectacular, or disappointingly dull, moment in time.

Still, when that moment is truly seized – there are very few things in life that bring such intense emotion, human connection and physical accomplishment. It feels like life, truly lived… every moment of those accumulated seconds toward intellectual and creative expression.

Even now, as I write this, I sit in my picture car in Manhattan at 9 p.m. on a Friday night, miles away from my family, on the set of Spider Man, working as a Screen Actors Guild background actor, trying to earn extra money to make ends meet in between bigger acting and production gigs. It is a small part of the big plan of working my way slowly up the ladder.

Do I have moments of intense self-doubt as to what I’m doing in this industry and is it a waste of time and passion? Absolutely.

And yet, as with the film Her Telling Heart, the short, Gothic thriller adaptation of Edgar Allan Poe’s short story, “The Tell-tale Heart,” which I wrote, produced through my company, Personae Entertainment, directed and acted in, I do see progress toward realizing my career goals and personal/professional passion.

Above all, I see myself as blessed that I am in touch with my dreams and, moreover, able to pursue them. This is something that I often think, in these times, we take for granted. In reality, it is a luxury.

So, you see, sitting on the set of Spider Man for a wrinkle in time to pay the bills is really not so bad. I am a small part of a bigger picture on this one. – And, during waiting times like right now, I am able to do one of my favorite things in the world: write.

Shawn Schaffer

2011-11-21T06:10:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago, I had the enjoyable experience of catching up with Capital District local, Shawn Schaffer, to discuss many of his most recent artistic and professional accomplishments.

Shawn Schaffer is a gifted cinematographer and editor in his own right, a natural talent, who learned everything he knows in the artistic and technical dimensions of his industry by doing on set and reading on his own, rather than film school.

He’s built up a variety of different experiences working on everything from shorts, to indie features, to web series, and, most recently, a feature film with real star talent (Bruce Dern and Kristanna Loken) and helmer power (Farhad Mann) – “Love Orchard” – set in the Kinderhook area of Columbia county, upstate New York.

I should add, here, that I, too, worked on that film – as Production Coordinator. But during that time, we rarely, if ever, had enough time to sit down and talk on set and, thus, it was truly fun sitting down in front of the camera to officially discuss all we had both learned.

If you like, you can click here to watch that interview.

GROWING UP TOGETHER

One thing that I’ve come to really cherish about being in the film industry with time is watching my colleagues and peers grow with and around me. We might not always ascend the proverbial career ladder at the same time – or even upwards, for that matter – but eventually, when sticking with it over a course of time, we inevitably end up with some real stories to exchange and tell.

BRUCE DERN & THE 16TH MILE

I think my best story about the Love Orchard film would have to do with some great advice that honored and esteemed actor Bruce Dern gave me:

“Kid, the film industry is like a marathon – you don’t really hit your stride until you reach the 16^th mile. Get ready, because I think you’re about to hit your 16^th mile soon.”

Bruce, I’ll hold you to that insight. Thanks for the lovely moment and memory.

Impact with actor/producer Kevin Craig West

2011-11-12T06:55:00.000-08:00

I'm pressed to catch up on the events this last month. "Impact" with Open Stage Media and Proctors came my way as an unexpected and delightful opportunity from Proctor's Producer Richa Bhat Khandelwal and Proctor's C.E.O. Philip Morris, who is the Impact on the Arts Co-Host.

Philip and I have a friendly competition going on to see who can bring on the most exciting, current and inspiring Guest-from-the-Arts -- not that any artist isn't exciting and current, but rather that it's a joy finding those individuals who have yet to be "discovered" by other media formats.

Thus, my first Guest on Impact was, for me, a no-brainer. In upstate, New York, you can't be in the indie film and professional theater scene for long without hearing the name "Kevin Craig West."

Indeed, when I first moved "up" here from Ypsilanti, Michigan, in 2007, I kept hearing about Kevin and, quite frankly, it annoyed me.

Could this guy really be all that everyone keeps on saying he is? How in the world is he able to keep up with everything he does in the industry and still sleep?

Well, as it turns out, Kevin is also very good at slowly converting his skeptics. Most often, he'll turn to you, unexpectedly, and offer you a chance to participate in the industry he so loves.

That is how I was given the opportunity to grow as the Programming Chair for Upstate Independents. The former Programming Chair had resigned and Kevin asked me, "How would you like to step in as an interim Programming Chair?"

And that was the opportunity for me to stretch out in the indie film scene of upstate, New York.

Lately, I call it the six degrees of Kevin. No one is perfect, but Kevin has done a lot for people and the good karma always comes back in one way or another. In fact, I'd wager that my current role as a host on "IMPACT" has to do with him in one way or another.

Not that Kevin is perfect... nor that he is responsible for creating all the opportunities upstate...but his imperfections stand out as unique personality traits that he definitely knows how to creatively exploit as an actor in his best work and he's wise enough to know that positive energy sends vibes that eventually touch us all and return.

Negative vibes, on the other hand, cause a vacuum, a virtual black hole for creativity, in other words.

Quite scientific, if you think about it. Albert Einstein would be proud.
Watch my interview with Kevin and you'll see how that all comes together and adds up.

>> watch interview

Impact Promo

2011-11-10T05:20:00.000-08:00

Check out our Impact Promo -- and keep watching until the end for the show times and channel!

Making an "Impact" with Proctors and Open Stage Media

2011-11-10T05:17:00.000-08:00

I've returned to an old love and pastime of mine: interviewing personalities and creative makers in the community around me -- this time on the show "Impact."

My first interview was two weeks ago, in late October, with actor, producer, multi-talented and committed to his art, Kevin Craig West. If you like, you can check it out on my Facebook page.

Wow - amazing - all the catching up I need to do with social media now that I'm putting myself out there in the spotlight, again. I'll definitely be keeping you up to date on all I'm learning as I go along -- and I definitely welcome your input. I've got a lot to learn -- no man, or woman, is an island. Not that I've been out on an island all this time.

Let's just say that I've been in the dark woods of a deep forest and am slowly coming out to see the forest from the trees.

And now I'm all about what this great big world -- and the community around me -- has to offer. "Think Global, Act Local," as they say.

Stay tuned... I'll be taking you along on my journey.

Wow - it's good to be back out of the woods.

Getting through the Conflict in My Own Story - Her Telling Heart

2011-06-02T15:30:00.000-07:00

I have two artistic identities -- one, as Heidi Philipsen, actor and writer; the other, as Eli Meissner (short for Elizabeth), as director and producer.

Why? You ask.

Well, we all have two sides, the one in control who calls the shots and the vulnerable one who learns to take them and process them creatively.

This last year has taken me on a journey in film making that connects both of those personas and leads them down one road. Funny, my last film, A FORK IN THE ROAD, was about choices between two paths in life. This next one, HER TELLING HEART, is about reconciling those choices in one's heart.

But it's not easy reconciling a life's journey in one's heart, especially if that journey had traumatic moments which have never been let out to see the light of day... consciously, that is. And this film, a short, narrative adaptation of Edgar Allan Poe's "The Telltale Heart," has taken me into my own 'heart of darkness' parallel to the challenges one has in making a film.

When I was five, I was made to be a victim, over and over again. The trouble with being victimized when you are that young is that all it does is set you up for a life of victimization and abuse -- a finely lined walk between the roles of victim and abuser -- unless you get serious help.

I never told anyone about it and held it in for years -- held it in so tightly that my life depended on it. Faith, work, sports and understanding angels disguised as "mortal" friends made it all bearable. And yet, in retrospect, I would guess that many people close to me saw it, suspected it. Still, I was so sure I could fool everyone into thinking I was fine and my world was perfect.

Our society walks a fine line between dictating perfection and individualism any way. Always trying to be perfect and fit in perfectly... even when you don't want to and you shouldn't. Let's face it: perfection is an obsessive illusion.

And so, as it often goes with one's psyche, all of the hurt and pain and trauma had to be let out some way, some time; for me, that all came out in the creation of HER TELLING HEART. It's one thing if you just write a piece and be done with it. It's another, altogether, if you see it through from start to finish on screen.

More soon... see the next post coming soon...

She is Able Who Thinks She is Able

2010-07-21T03:42:00.000-07:00

When you decide to focus your energy on the open doors in your life, rather than crying about those blasted closed ones, you begin to see just how full your plate really is...

This week, for example, I've got A LOT going on:

Scene study with Terry Schreiber at Terry Schreiber Studios, Arts and Entertainment Board of Schenectady Board Meeting, pre-production meetings for the September shoot of my next short film, HER TELLING HEART, and a screening of my MPI thesis film, A FORK IN THE ROAD at Symphony Space in NYC as an official part of the shorts program for the Manhattan Film Festival.

Of course, trying to juggle it all on a freelancer's budget -- that's another thing altogether.

And then, in the midst of writing this blog, I receive my morning quote from Bongo Productions on facebook:

"He is able who thinks he is able." Buddha

Thus, I view at all the challenges, financial, spacial and time-wise as such -- look at what I am able to do on a shoe-string budget, with only 24 hours in the day, spread out between Upstate, NY, NYC and Michigan (what I call my posse' triangle) and image the possibilities when I'm in the position to take the next step!

According to Buddha, the first step is opening my self up to being able to believe that I'm able. Combine that with Einstein's Theory of Relativity, and all I need to do is close my eyes, think happy thoughts, and push on through toward next week.

The short, written, produced and directed by Heidi Philipsen, which features acclaimed Michigan actors, Grant Krause, Barbara Coven, Matt Andersen and Shelby Howe, will be screening on Thursday, July 22nd, at 7:45 p.m..

All Manhattan Film Festival screenings are to take place at Symphony Space on the upper West Side of Manhattan.

http://www.symphonyspace.org/event/6314-manhattan-film-festival-the-things-we-carry-?source=calendar

and use promotional code RAC102 for a $2 discount, which makes tickets purchased in advanced only $8!

I'm Back

2010-06-19T07:31:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I've written a blog. I've been under attack.

Martians took over my life, presented me with a lot of strife, and made me question my values, my family, my friends.

Some you keep, some you let go.

This I know: I am an artist, I create and through this process, along with my faith in God, I hold stay firmly rooted to Mother Earth, while gazing at the stars.

It's a heady place to be.

And I decided to take a step back, re-evaluate my life, be a part of QUALITY over quantity -- whether that be in friendship, in work, in faith.

More than ever, it seems to me that if you call out to the universe, your needs will be met. But you must be willing to listen, truly listen, and have the discipline to go the extra mile with all the people and endeavors you chose to let in to your life.

If not, let it go.

This is easier said than done. It is a constant state of pruning and nurturing. And some times, with some people, you should hold on, when you want to let go. And some times, with some people, you should let go, when you want to hold on.

Ultimately, however, for me, it's about being aware of your place in life and living it with purpose.

Everything else in life will follow suit.

WAMC: 51% Show # 1046 (2009-07-30)

2009-08-06T07:39:00.001-07:00

WAMC: 51% Show # 1046 (2009-07-30)

Shared via AddThis

Feeling the crunch? Weigh in with your comments.

eScape

2009-07-09T09:13:00.001-07:00

I had the great pleasure of taking on a small guest role on Mike Feurstein's great series "eScape," this past week. We filmed on location at Lake George on board The Morgan with beautiful weather.

I love working with Mike -- he is the type of director who knows what he wants, allowing you, as the actor, a lot of creative room in the process. Thus, I had a brilliant time taking with my character on set and only needed him to say, "Take it up a notch," or "Tweak it down a little" in terms of the intensity.

Don't you just love a good day at work? Hopefully, I'll literally have something to show for it soon - stay tuned!

My Acting Reel is Now Available Watch!

2009-06-26T12:59:00.000-07:00

I just finished editing together my acting reel, full of scenes from the short films I've been in over the past couple of years. I'd love for you to check it out!

Please visit: www.heidiphilipsen.com, and let me know what you think.

Thanks!
Heidi

One Step Forward, Two Steps Back?

2009-06-26T07:42:00.000-07:00

The most difficult thing for me about the entertainment industry is uncertainty; you never know how things will work out.

And yet, turn this scenario around and you also find a lot of positive: you never know how things might turn out.

You are only as good as your last gig: Today crummy? Tomorrow is a new day!

I went to three call backs, two castings and was in a feature film. I thought my cards were decently stacked.

They all ended up jokers.

C'est la vie! That, truly, is life. In the end, the true test for me is pulling what positive I can away from these experiences, moving on, and, hopefully, building a more solid foundation for something better tomorrow.

I can't help but wonder, however, in this results-driven society, when have you finally made it? Does anyone really make it? Is that really the point?

Sometimes I'm angry at myself for having the courage to go after my dream and first love in life; to be an actress. I had a budding career as a journalist in Berlin and, in comparison to now, felt like I was on top of the world.

But I had to go and interview George Clooney, Shirley McClaine, Jamie Foxx, Michelle Yeoh and remembered, through them, my first and last true love: acting, the theater, film. They inspired me to the point that I gave everything up to move to the Big Apple, an enormous undertaking in and of itself.

It all seems like lifetimes ago.

You know, I get to a plateau where I think I understand it all -- and then the world takes another turn, and I realize that the only thing I know is that there is so much to know that I know nothing.

How's that for wisdom?

I think that Picasso said it best: Je ne cherche pas, je trouve. I do not search, I find.

So, let's sum up what could be found from the three callbacks, a feature film and no dice:

1.) I love auditioning and am getting to be good enough to receive a callback -- an enormous honor in an of itself.

2.) I need to work on my callback technique.

3.) I could use more work on "Acting for the Camera."

4.) I need to get out there and see more theater and meet more people.

The other thing I love about acting? You can never, NEVER say that you've exhausted all of your resources. And, thus, it is back to the drawing board.
I'll keep you posted.

Whisper Me a Lullaby

2009-06-08T07:02:00.001-07:00

Big, Big week this week:

I'm heading off to a callback at one of my favorite professional theaters in the world (I'm not exaggerating), which shall remain nameless for the moment (you understand, actor's superstitions).

Wednesday, my film A FORK IN THE ROAD, see last week's posting below, screens at the New Filmmakers Summer Series.

And then, on Friday, I begin work as "Aunt Jane" in a brilliant feature film, in which I'm extremely excited to be a part, called WHISPER ME A LULLABY. It's written and to be directed by Christina Vinsick.
If you're curious, you can check out the official web-site: http://www.whispermealullaby.com/Site/Home.html.

Life is good right now. Stella Adler once said, "You act with your soul. That's why you all want to be actors, because your souls are not used up by life."
Too true, too true. Like a vampire's kiss in Stephanie Meyer's book TWILIGHT, once bitten by the acting and creating bug, you are possessed by its energy inside and out -- and any thing else seems less than human.

A FORK IN THE ROAD's official premiere with the New Filmmakers' Series at the Anthology Film Archives in New York City!

2009-05-26T13:55:00.001-07:00

A FORK IN THE ROAD -- the short film written, produced & directed by Heidi Philipsen-Meissner, and starring Michigan actors Grant Krause, Barbara Coven, Matt Anderson & Shelby Howe will be screening this month (JUNE 10th @ 6 p.m.) with the New Filmmakers series in New York City at the Anthology Film Archives.

For more detailed information on tickets, directions and times, visit either the New Filmmakers or Anthology Film Archives web sites, by clicking on the title links above.

You can also check out the film's official web site for details:

www.aforkintheroad-themovie.com.

Hope to see you there!

New Day

2009-05-12T07:30:00.000-07:00

The quality I love most about actors and the talents that acting lends to them is the ability to reinvent and refine.

You are never confined today to what you were yesterday (unless, of course, you've made extremely bad choices in life and have committed some horrible crime).

And so I take back what I said in my last blog about age -- 37? Hah! I stay in shape and look like most 30 year-old-women with seven years' more life experience for my craft. I laugh in the face of aging and age stereo-typing by creating my own work and testing it to the max, pushing the boundaries in the process.

Life is fragile. Acting, writing and directing teach me to embrace and make the most of it.

Today, I send my thank yous out into the world for all of the truly beautiful people out there who live life with generosity and true integrity -- and rewrite their own destiny every day.

Personal Crossroads, II

2009-05-09T18:16:00.000-07:00

I received many supportive notes of encouragement, wisdom and understanding in response to my last Blog.

One friend offered insight into this stage of life -- wisdom shared from the experience of realizing that we are not immortal and that life truly is only valued in its day-by-day seizing.

Another mentor suggested that I maintain my focus on "creating, creating, creating" and that, in doing so, the process of creativity will bring me closer to understanding the true meaning of life, as well as get me through the sadness of mourning.

And my next door neighbor, who noted my saddened expression from day to day of late, left a book on my doorstep with a kind card, filled with encouragement.

I believe that we have the power to be angels and that, as angels, we do reach out when called upon for help. All of the above extensions of thought and sharing of personal reflections about life and its journey are nothing short of angelic in my eyes and I'm thankful for your kindness.

SEIZE THE DAY

My cousin Debbie was wonderful at being positive in spite of all the odds -- she fought cancer for fifteen years and, we all thought, had it beaten. She thought she could beat it and, thus, so, too, did we. She wanted to live. Pure and simple. Even toward the end, after the cancer had been found in her thyroid and she could barely talk, she refused to stay bedridden. If there was a family gathering, she was there. Any time I traveled to Wisconsin to visit the family, she'd be the first at Auntie Neva's, where I'd being staying, to get to me and give her magic hug.

And even though cancer did slow her down in the end, preventing her to do all of the things she loved, Debbie never stopped taking interest in the active lives of those she cherished. Her mother, my aunt, Beverley, said that Debbie would love to hear about all of the new things that I was doing in television, film and theater... she talked of me as a hero.

In all honesty, Debbie is my hero -- far more successful in living her life than I should ever hope to be in living mine. I've complained too often, felt sorry for myself too much, and teared up in jealousy over anther's accomplishments that trumped my own.

Debbie was not like that.

Still, she must have seen something special in me -- as have my angels who've passed their wisdom and caring thoughts along -- and for this I live each moment wholly.

CREATE, CREATE, CREATE

I finally feel as if I am beginning to get this thing called "acting." I no longer have the energy or muse to act -- but relish the moment to take on an author's words and thoughts, sit in the moment, and let them be my own.

It is such a pity that the American creative industry is so obsessed with youth alone -- I feel like, now that I'm 37, I have finally lived enough to posses the proper insight to understand the material with which I want to analyze and create.

I don't know how old I look, I only know how old I feel -- I feel timeless, ageless, and free from the tethers of a history book. I could waltz across its pages.

And so, heading the advice of an old mentor and far away friend, I "create" without looking back--or memorizing my own space on the virtual timeline.

In fact, just in the past three weeks, I've auditioned for two equity theaters (in two different states), worked as a precision driver in Columbia Picture's thriller feature film SALT with Angelina Jolie, finished the storyboard for my next short, period piece film, and finally found a great female Director of Photographer, with whom I see a solid working collaboration as divinely possible.

I create to celebrate life -- mine, my families', yours, and Debbie's.

I sense that Debbie, like many of my friends and relatives who are dearly departed, is watching over me and living with me. Therefore, one could infer that I'm not really just living for my self.

That being said, I guess I better make each day of this life a good one. Shakespeare, if you're listening, I'm going to be making romantic comedies out of the next few years, as I've had enough of the tragedies, so get out your quill and ink and start taking notes.

Personal Crossroads

2009-04-05T05:54:00.000-07:00

I am not one to wear my religion on my sleeve -- in fact, I believe it is better to show your faith by acts rather than push your religion. I realize that I may not be in tune with many of the religious creeds out there, but then, again, many a war has occurred from people of various religions pushing themselves on other peoples.

Furthermore, this Blog is more of a launching format to speak about my career, rather than just my personal life -- or spiritual life.

Still, there comes a time when all things join at a crossroad and ones personal, professional and spiritual paths intersect.

Thus, here I stand, in the center of a circle of chaos, created as a result of recent, traumatic events: My dear, dear cousin died of cancer this past month, I lost my job the month before, I found out that my father has prostate cancer four months ago--and I have not found what I'm looking for in a place to heal my wounded and mourning spirit.

And so, the next several Blog entries are going to talk a little about my journey in servicing these needs and healing the wounds that are still very raw.

Perhaps you, too, have come to such a crossroads, recently, and are searching for the reigns to guide you back to a full and heart-felt life. If so, I invite you to join in the conversation and pass it along.

Back from L.A.

2009-03-07T13:29:00.001-08:00

I just returned from Los Angeles, where I was promoting the film "The Beggar's Story."

My involvement in The Beggar's Story, a short story based upon the Czech folk tale and directed by Czech director, Lucie Groene, originated from a single phone call from Kurt Mayry of the Motion Picture Institute of Michigan.

And thus, excited about working in Europe on a transatlantic production, I pulled up my arm sleeves and dug in, helping Lucie out in any way I could: I translated her script from German to English, assisted with coaching the Czech actors (who did not read or speak English) with their English dialogue and accents, took on the role of the mean neighbor (who has no name) and acted in the film, helped out with the shop set decoration and assisted on location in the country-side outskirts of Prague.

Talking about jumping into cold water -- I had no idea that I'd be the only English-speaking person on set, other than Lucie, and learned a LOT about the Czech way of artistic life (beer for lunch -- not with lunch, FOR LUNCH!!!)

Really, now that I think of it, I could make a great short film about my experience on set as the only American.

All that being said, if you're looking to see a well-crafted old Czech folk tale that's great for the whole family, I highly recommend it: www.beggarsstory.com.

This little short film with a big heart had its West Coast premiere at the International Family Film Festival and was screened in the Pickford (named after Mary Pickford) theater within Raleigh Studios.

Raleigh Studios is the current home of the Thursday night series "Private Practice" on ABC -- which I follow -- and I couldn't help but crane my neck into its lot to check out its set. Raleigh Studios is also the studio behind the new studios opening up in Detroit, Michigan: Motown Pictures.

There were many great student-made short films at the fest and I was delighted to meet the other film makers. I was also delighted that my friend Adrianna Shaw, the actress, producer and distributor (www.womensfilmnet.com), who is busy getting ready to launch her major film site for, about, and by women in film, was able to make it.

We had a brilliant lunch together, complete with my very own birthday-candle-on-a-cake, at the popular Mels Drive-in Diner -- and I received a free, birthday t-shirt (I'll post a picture on the next blog).

Look to spring
I'm finishing pre-production for a short film that will begin shooting in mid-April -- a period-piece and thriller, set in the 1800s. I'll be launching the film's official story and web-site very soon.

And then there's the PERSONAE ENSEMBLE -- the theater actors' ensemble which originated in Ann Arbor, born from a class at Jeff Daniel's Equity Theatre, The Purple Rose. I've never felt closer to directing and acting than I did when I was working with local talent in an ensemble format toward the common goal of grassroots theater with a social cause.

So keep your eyes open and get ready for new life -- we are all able to change and make the most of this life and this world for the positive, with the natural talents we possess.

Moving on

2009-02-25T18:28:00.000-08:00

There comes a time when, in spite of your best efforts, you realize that a others may not see your intentions the way that you do.

I gave it all to lead a Public Access television station into a new era of Community TV and public access to freedom of speech in the media age.

Unfortunately, the very person who hired me, who had much different plans, but did not communicate them, did not agree.

And that's it. You cannot force something that is not meant to be.

You can only be your best, be true, hold onto your integrity and ethics, and step aside when the bull is charging.

Those beasts never know what is behind the red flag.

Oh, and by the way, should you see this post and then go back to realize that it's not there anymore, you're not crazy. The bull may push for me to take it off.

So much for freedom of speech.

December Success, New Sights for January

2009-01-01T14:06:00.000-08:00

I can hardly believe that December, with all of its festivities and moments for reflection, has come and gone. Boy -- what a month!

I have been so busy with writing my latest film, a short to be included in the Motion Picture Institute of Michigan's Directors' Club DVD series compilation, to be shot in April in Upstate, New York, that I failed to report the latest news: I was chosen to be profiled in BACKSTAGE, the actors' weekly newspaper for New York, L.A. and everywhere in between, for getting the part in Alex Uhlmann's short, colonial period piece "Across the River and into the Trees."

As you may, or may not remember, my son Max and I both had the great joy and fortune to be cast in this extremely well-crafted tale about a young man and his journey to save his brother, which was shot in Upstate, New York on the RED digital camera.

So, there you have it -- click here and you'll be taken directly to the online copy of the article.

January
I love January for the symbol of new hope in a New Year that it brings. We put the tree, still lit, on the porch, to remind us of last year's December festivities, while donning our cleaning clothes and digging into the practical sights of planning, cleaning, organizing and sorting.

I have to admit, I love cleaning. It gives me a sense of terrific pride and practicality.

I've got new reasons to clean and prepare this year -- 2009 is going to offer new challenges and tribulations. I will continue to act, write, direct and produce, pushing the envelope as far open as I can. After all, creativity is about the living of life and expressing our interpretation of this experience.

I'm Featured in Backstage!

2008-12-03T12:47:00.000-08:00

Check out the October 30th issue of Backstage:

On the very LAST page you'll see the "last words" quotes and one from yours truly!

Asbury Shorts Schenectady -- What a Night!

2008-11-19T16:31:00.000-08:00

Asbury Shorts Schenectady: An Evening of the World's Best Short Films is now a thing of the past -- but, oh, what an event it was!

We couldn't of asked for a better crowd of short film fans and I could hear Proctor Theater's Philip Morris's laughter echoing within the beautiful G.E. Theatre.

WTEN's own Steve Ammerman, provided us the perfect atmosphere and guidance as Master of Ceremonies, while music performing wonder-woman Jill Jack, accompanied by wonder-man lead guitarist, Bill Dillion, made us all want to get up and dance as the event's main pre-show performance.

All in all, I'm glad that I could help in bringing Creative Director Doug LeClaire's brilliant short film celebration event to Schenectady.

Mr. LeClaire was so pleased with the audience's response and the great hosting done by Proctors that he said, "Well, I guess we'll have to bring it back next year!"

I second that!

"Across the River and Into the Trees" and Me

2008-11-05T12:59:00.000-08:00

I just finished performing in a period piece entitled ACROSS THE RIVER AND INTO THE TREES, directed by the wonderfully talented Alex Uhlmann and crew -- including one of the most talent D.P.s I've run into in a long time, Danielle Krudy. The highlight? Being on set with my son, Max, and watching him take on his very first film role with talented aplomb.

If you'd like to learn more about this piece of indie nirvana in Upstate, NY, check out the newsletter article from the Official Woodstock Film Festival by clicking "here."

Otherwise, stay tuned -- with a little bit of serendipity, there will be more of such-exciting projects on the horizon!

Asbury Shorts: An Evening of the World's Best Short Films

2008-11-01T07:07:00.001-07:00

The day is here -- my first, big producing endeavor -- check it out and come support the brilliant entertainment (if you're in the neighborhood:-)

Back in NY but keep a Foot in Germany

2008-09-23T07:22:00.001-07:00

Ute Schneider of Schneider & Groos and I in Hamburg, Germany

I am back from Europe and building base, again, in New York, looking at the amazing amount of opportunities for self-actualization in the film, television and theater industry here.

Sure, the times are tough, but let's not forget that great creativity comes from taking a look inward during your darkest moments.

Thus, I'm off to the HD Expo in NYC this week, the New Jersey Reel Film Festival over the weekend, and Asbury Shorts: An Evening of the Worlds' Best Films on Sunday, looking to make contacts, learn new industry techniques, and promote my film/HD production company, Personae Productions & Entertainment, as well as my presenting/acting/voice-over career (www.heidiphilipsen.com).

Lots to do and see. Now, if only I could bicycle to save on gas!

Back to America

2008-08-28T14:09:00.000-07:00

I just returned to Muenster, Germany, from a major trip across France, through Paris, Versailles, Bergerac, Mont St. Michel, and Chatelaillon-Plage, as well as in Brugge, Belgium.

Having been there before ten years ago, I'm an absolute fan of Mont St. Michel, with it's mystical mountaintop cathedral and movie-set like village and Deauville-Trouville, with their seafood shops, beach bungalows, and, of course, the American Deauville Film Festival!! (and who can forget Paris or Versailles),but I have to say that the absolute hit stops were in Bergerac and Bruges.

Bergerac, the fabled home of Cyrano de Bergerac, is a beautiful city with intricate cobblestoned street paths weaving in and out the beautiful, old buildings.

Bruges, an extremely well-preserved medieval town, with two town squares, canals and bridges throughout, as well as the best chocolate and diamonds that Europe has to offer, has become one of my favorite cities to visit.

The crazy thing is, we discovered it completely by accident.

Hoping to make the entire 600-km trip by car, but leaving Deauville a bit later than planned (I was procrastinating in hopes of staying long enough for the festival next weekend), we ran into an unexpected traffic jam that had us sitting in Rouen for nearly an hour-and-a-half.

"We'll just drive by night and get into Muenster by 1 a.m.," we concluded. Nothing doing. By 10:30 p.m., my eyes were drooping and, so, we decided, we'd have to find a place to stay.

We drove from one city to the next, through the industrial port of Calais in the north, to the Belgium border, where not a single light was to been seen lit in the windows at 11 p.m. -- not a single soul walking around! Every hotel, a local pension or BB-style guest-house, shut down for the night, the foyers dark and desks empty. We found nothing.

"I can't believe this," I said, "it's too creepy; it's as if all the world has disappeared and we're left to wander the streets in search of life."

Finally, at 12 a.m., nearing the city of Bruges, I asked my husband to make one last attempt. I can only say that GPS in cars is one of the best inventions out, as we were able to locate a list of hotels, including contact information, nearby and make a reservation.

And, thus, at 1 a.m., tired and resigned to wasting a night in a dingy hotel somewhere in some unknown backskirt of Belgium, we drove down the empty cobblestone streets, through what appeared to be the back-end of the city, to the Novotel -- a sort of mod and hip Holiday Inn in Europe -- to find a bed and lie down our weary heads.

The next morning, we awoke to sunshine and the most glorious, alive European city, full of quaint shops, great cafe's and restaurants, horses and carriages trotting about, and chocolate -- glorious chocolate. That day, we decided to slow down our frantic pace, stroll around, and enjoy all of the sights. There's nothing like eating French fries in the land that helped to establish their good name!

I learned, as a result of this unexpectedly beautiful city on an unexpectedly gorgeous day, that the best things in life can pass your way when you least expect them -- and when the world seems lonely, dark, desolate and gray, all you have to do is "sleep on it," and, sometimes, the next morning's sunshine is enough to walz all your troubles and doubts away.

Now, onto the next adventure -- this Sunday, our trip back to New York and the good, old (although not as old as Europe) U.S. of A.

Two Weeks Left in Europe and Lots on the Lap

2008-08-09T13:21:00.000-07:00

I've been in Europe all summer, living mostly in Muenster, Germany, leaving town for places like Berlin, Duesseldorf, Hamburg and Cologne, but also traveling to countries surrounding and beyond: the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, and Denmark.

Next week? France.

This week, however, I'm staying put in Muenster, taking advantage of all it has to offer, all the while researching for my production company's future Germany projects.

Last night, for example, I went to this incredible spa, complete with four different kinds of saunas, steam baths, hot tubs, cold pools, a solarium, and lounge chairs galore. A real paradise... for 17 euros. I'm not kidding - 17 euros. That's a steal for Americans, and as the former Assistant to the VP of Development at Mandarin Oriental in New York, I can tell assure you that I know what I'm talking about.

The only odd thing - for me, as a puritanical American - was the small fact that you were supposed to go "au naturelle," covered only by a towel.

Gosh, as liberated as I'd like to think I am, this was tough. And how do you NOT look, for heaven's sake?

Still, there was nothing kinky about any of it. In fact, the only weird one there was I -- I just couldn't get over the very obvious lack of interest in my naked body. Hey, the people weren't there for a strip tease, they just wanted to be healthy and chill.

So much for the idea that it's all about sex.

Prague, "The Beggar's Story" and My Role in the film

2008-07-06T14:28:00.000-07:00

I'm back from my trip to Prague, where I took on the role of the Neighbor Elisabeth in Lucie Groene's film "The Beggar's Story."

As many of you may know, I’m living and working in Germany for the summer, writing my scripts, developing various productions, acting when the opportunity arises and enjoying the summer amidst cobblestones, castles, cafes, bicycles and biergartens.

For “The Beggar’s Story,” I took the train from Berlin to Prague and was picked up personally by the director, her self. We drove to the beautiful, tiny village of Zelenice, where the only other language the locals spoke was Russian, and I couldn't help but feel as if I had been transported 100 years back in time.

Filming with a Czech crew is like nothing I've ever experienced. The professionals on set were top-rate, but they sure do like their cigarettes and beer. Unlike in the States, where no one breaks until the official announcement is made, the Czech crew seemed to have just stopped for lunch and a beer whenever they felt like it.

The craziest moment was when we were all set for shooting the final scenes for the day. Everything was set up -- lighting, perfect, camera and crew, prepared, the director and supporting actors ready to go -- except for the main character, the shopkeeper. His name called -- no response. He was no where to be found.

And then, finally, after the Czech A.D. went on a search throughout the village, our actor was found. He had decided to go the local pub for another drink.

I couldn't help but laugh and shake my head.

Still, that being said, I was impressed by how well they all work together, how relaxed the atmosphere on set was, and how much we were able to accomplish in a short amount of time.

The biggest lesson learned? Tolerance and openness is part of international film-making. One person's beer is another's water.

Introducing: Quote of the Week

2008-06-04T01:24:00.000-07:00

My Blog will now be featuring a "Quote of the Week," by individuals both well-known and unknown. The idea and thought drives.

Enjoy!

New Website

2008-05-17T18:44:00.001-07:00

My new website is up and running: www.heidiphilipsen.com.

Check it out and come back for more!

Projects on the Slate

2008-05-03T20:14:00.000-07:00

Here are some of the latest on my desk:

Seeking Distribution:
A Fork in the Road -- The award-winning short, narrative drama about a father, his son, and the connection they find after an unexpected twist in fate. Written and directed by H.E. Philipsen, shot on location in Ypsilanti and Ann Arbor, Michigan, and premiered to the public in Los Angeles as a part of the official program at the Reel Women International Film Festival, mature teens and adults of all ages will be moved by the performances of Michigan's most talented actors, Grant Krause and Barbara Coven.

Post-production:
Schenectady (working title) -- The first of a ten-part series about the various local businesses that make Schenectady, New York, the dark horse of cities within the Capital Region.

Development:
Three short films about women to begin pre-production in late summer 2008.

A full-length documentary about working in America. Please check back, again, for further information about funding.

Preparing for Prague

2008-04-29T13:06:00.000-07:00

I'm heading to Europe soon -- Muenster, Hamburg, and Berlin, Germany; possibly Cannes, France; and then onto Prague, Czech Republic.

Muenster will be my home base for the summer -- from there, I plan on venturing out on as many adventures to meet women directors, screenwriters, and producers as feasibly possible. And stay tuned -- I'll most certainly be writing about them all in my Blog.

The first big adventure starts when my mentor and friend, Melissa Costello , a brilliant director who specializes in political campaign commercials.

Melissa and I will be making a pilgrimage to Hamburg to meet former Road Movies Development Director, Ute Schneider .

Ute Schneider and I go back to my internship at Wim Wender's Film Production Company in Berlin, nearly six years ago. She now heads her own company in Hamburg, Schneider & Groos, and I can't wait to see what she's up to.

And then it's on to Berlin -- ahhhhhh, Berlin -- the home of my inner, Bohemian heart, to meet old friends (I lived there for five years, from 1995 to 2000) at the English Theatre of Berlin and Deutsche Welle-tv and make new, specifically with the women of Women in Film & Television , Germany.

Finally, Melissa and I will part ways in Berlin and I'll be taking a jet-plane to the beautiful and mysterious city of Prague.

In Prague, I'll be working on a short film with Czech director, Lucie Groene, as Assistant Director of the English-speaking shoot, as well as taking-on a small, manageable part, as actress. It's been great communicating with Lucie, as I've been able to put my German-speaking-skills back into full action. Lucie feels more comfortable speaking German than English.

I couldn't ask for a more ideal gig -- working with a competent director in one of the most beautiful European cities and being assigned the responsibility of organizing around my own native language, while speaking another and learning a third (Czech) -- I've died and gone to heaven!

Wheewwwwww! That's a lot -- and I promise to keep you up-to-date on everything. For now, however, I better get packing!

The One That Got Away

2008-04-07T15:15:00.000-07:00

I've been traveling a lot lately:

I made it to the Reel Women International Film Festival in Los Angeles in early March, where my film A FORK IN THE ROAD, was an official part of the student film program within the festival line-up. That was an amazing experience, meeting and networking with industry professionals committed to bring films made by or about women to the screen.

The L.A. trip was smack-dab-in-the-middle of several "mini" excursions to New York City to take part in the Advanced Scene Study Class at Stella Adler Studios with Stella Technique pro Patrick Quagliano. I recommend returning to a learning and growth environment for every actor, whether just beginning or advanced, as it allows you to push your inner envelope and get more out of your talents and skills with every new scene being studied.

And now, I find my self in Michigan, home of the Purple Rose Theatre -- Jeff Daniel's Equity theater located in the heart of Chelsea, lead by Artistic Director Guy Sanville, with aplomb.

I just auditioned for the "Rose's" 2008/2009 theatrical performance season and do hope to be recognized for callbacks. But I'm also energized by the opportunity to step on stage there, again, and show what I've learned in the last year.

Tomorrow, it's back to Schenectady, New York, home of Proctor's Theatre, where I will most likely check out the New Plays Festival.

That, my Dears, is the one that got a away.

I had auditioned for the New Plays Festival over two months ago and was called back to read for the part of Desdemona in General Desdemona. I received an email that I should be there by 6 p.m. only to get a call at 3:30 p.m. from the producers asking me why I was late. "I was not to go on until 6 p.m.," I panicked. "Don't worry," they said, "we'll wait for you."

And so, I rushed, no make-up on, frazzled, and panting heavily--I so wanted that role! Kevin McGuire, the Festival Director, was more than generous and did his best to calm me down. I auditioned and he praised my work.

But I certainly was not as calm, cool, and collected as I had been the first time around. And I left feeling a bit let down.

Alas, I did not get the role.

And though I can't help wondering what might have happened if the time from the producer on the email would have been correct (3:30 p.m. rather than 6 p.m.), in the end, all you can do is write it down in your journal as an experience and realize that the one that got away is the one that was not meant to be...

I'll keep on moving, keep on learning, keep on auditioning until I get the part that is right for me.

Reel Women International Film Festival

2008-02-21T08:06:00.000-08:00

TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW FOR THE 4TH ANNUAL
REEL WOMEN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

The fourth annual Reel Women International Film
Festival, featuring films directed by women from all
over the world, will open March 7th with Reservations,
directed by Aloura Charles. Set over a night in a New
York hotel, Reservations unexpectedly connects the
lives of several strangers in startling moments of
passion, friendship and hope. A reception will follow
at the Luxe Hotel Rodeo Drive.

Academy Award winner Helen Hunt's directorial debut
Then She Found Me serves as the Festival's centerpiece
presentation. Adapted from the novel by New England
Book Award winner Elinor Lipman, the film follows
April Epner (Hunt) and her touching journey to
happiness after separation from husband (Matthew
Broderick) and the death of her adopted mother.
Academy Award nominee Bette Midler also stars as
exuberant talk show host Bernice. Reception to follow
at Luxe Hotel Rodeo Drive.

With films from 17 countries, the Reel Women shorts
presentation sheds light on a variety of social and
political issues. In Migration, internationally
acclaimed director Mir Nair (The Namesake) examines
the AIDS crisis in India. Ghosts of Abu Ghraib
director Rory Kennedy looks at how the Iraqi prison
abuses in the fall of 2003 still remain etched in our
national consciousness. In Bling, director Raquel
Cepeda travels with hip-hop artists on an emotional
journey to Sierra Leone where they meet face-to-face
with victims of conflict “blood” diamonds. Featuring
interviews with Kanye West, Big Daddy Kane and
Jadakiss, Bling is a riveting documentary that teaches
the audience the real price of diamonds.

To purchase tickets and view the complete festival
line-up please visit www.reelwomenfest.com

Notice: This film was made without physically, mentally, or verbally abusing WOMEN

2008-02-17T18:11:00.000-08:00

Violence Against Women

I had a disturbing experience on a film set recently, in which I had to put up with words such as "cunt," "bitch," "pussy," (among others) while working with the actors and crew.

I was accompanying two, male actors in MY heated car (it was an outdoor shoot in the blustery winter), when I couldn't believe my ears: the one actor related his latest difficulties in dating his "fat opera-singing bitch girlfriend" to the other actor, apparently not even noticing, or not caring, that he happened to be sitting in a woman's car.

I turned around, after getting an ear-full, and politely said,

"I hate to interrupt your exciting conversation. But I would appreciate it greatly if you would NOT speak so derogatorily about women while sitting in my, i.e. 'A WOMAN'S' CAR. Thank you."

There was a mild feeling of tension, as well as embarrassment, before he apologized and tried to change the subject to something less abusive.

Of course, only two hours later, after having being asked to take over audio, because the audio technician had flown the coup, I listened with headphones, as the actors, now set up on wireless microphones, proceeded to tell jokes to each other.

"What do you call a dead blond in a closet?"

"I don't know."

"A good screw."

Now, I'm all for passing the time away on film sets with silliness and jokes, but I fail to see the humor in this, especially when they knew that I was in charge of audio.

It was too much. I couldn't take this abuse any more. It put me in a bad place, mentally and emotionally, and totally left me in no mood to work with the actors, pitting me against the wishes of the director, as a result.

To completely honest, after running on "high gear" four days with an average of only three hours of sleep per night, I lost it. I broke down. I caved in.

If animals don't have to put up with cruelty on the set anymore, why do we women?!

Do we really need to generate an honor pledge or oath by all involved to NOT verbally and physically abuse women?

If discrimination is not allowed in any other workplace, why should it be tolerated on film sets or locations?

Of course, I realize that his may just add more fodder for many male filmmakers and film trade workers to say that they'd rather not have women, as a result, on their shoots, at all.

But what era are we living in, after all?

I refuse to give up my love of film-making and directing because I have breasts. I won't see my children has a liability, because they come first. And I cannot abide by such horrible, violent language against the other half of the human race.

Tales of Motherhood in Ann Arbor, MI!

2008-02-17T10:32:00.000-08:00

It's official: The piece called "Tales of Motherhood" will be making its first staged appearance in Ann Arbor, Michigan this coming May.

More info soon...

Out and About on a Film Shoot

2008-02-16T13:28:00.000-08:00

I was just in New Jersey 1st A.D.-ing on a film by London Film Schooler, Brian Hickey, who is directing his Master Thesis short film on HD with fellow classmate and Director of Photography, Johannes Schaff.

Brian brought the whole cast and crew in for a week to shoot his film, a brilliant take on lessons in life, misery and faith.

Thus, I drove southwest to NJ from the Capital District Region, and noted the snow flurries absentmindedly throughout the drive.

Little did I know. Little did I wonder.

The only thing I feel able to say at this moment is that I've never worked in such cruel weather conditions, in such a bitter, biting cold. I have frostbite on my hand.

And yet, still, never have I had such a marvelous time in the way that only a film-maker can understand. I pushed myself dangerously to the edge -- to the point that my health was in trouble -- without even realizing that I was that close, because I wanted to give the film my all.

Why? I was inspired by my fellow crew members and, above all, the top of the team, my director and his cinematographer.

Now, back at home, away from the perfect chaos, the intense cold, and utter fatigue glossed over by adrenaline, I feel that ache that you go through when you're withdrawing from something you love... almost more than life, itself.

I'm sure that you'll be hearing more about Brian Hickey and Johannes Schaff. And I hope that I do, too.

MY BIO

2008-01-21T12:48:00.000-08:00

Heidi Philipsen, raised in the Ypsilanti/Ann Arbor area, has been developing an international career in film, broadcast television and regional theatre that spans over a decade and encompasses writing, directing, acting and producing.

In 1993, she traveled to Germany to study German literature and the arts. Highlights in her seven years abroad include apprenticing at the politically provocative and acclaimed Theatre 89, as well as acting and directing at the Friends of Italian Opera English Theatre in Berlin; weather-presenting, field-producing, translating and on-camera reporting at the Berlin International Film Festival for a worldwide audience (over 28 million viewers a week!) through Deutsche Welle TV; and doing voice-over work at the legendary Grundy Ufa Studios in Babelsberg.

In 2000, Heidi returned Stateside to pursue her M.I.A. in International Media & Communications at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs, while comparing notes between U.S. and European television broadcast formats as an intern at ABC’s “Good Morning America” and CBS’s “48 Hours.” Unable to give up the acting bug, Heidi also then filled her spare time with scene study acting at the T. Schreiber Studios, performing Off-Broadway, as well.

In 2004, Heidi moved back to Michigan and, after taking a break to start a family, started the socially motivated local theatre ensemble, “The Personae Ensemble,” understudied at acclaimed actor Jeff Daniel’s regional Equity theatre, The Purple Rose, and went back to film school at the Motion Picture Institute of Michigan, where she wrote and directed her thesis short, “A FORK IN THE ROAD” for which she received “Best Screenplay” and was nominate for “Best Director” at the MPI Student Film Festival.

“A Fork in the Road” has recently been accepted into the official program of the Reel Women International Film Festival in Burbank, California to take place in March 2008.

Today, after recently relocating to the Capital District region, Heidi has teamed up with award-winning cinematographer Robert Shenise and is in the process of working together with Bob and his production company, Shenise Productions, LLC, on several HD projects for television and film. She continues to write, act, direct and produce for both theatre and film through her company, Personae Entertainment, Ltd.

Back to the Basics and On to the Future

2008-01-10T15:36:00.001-08:00

I will be returning to the basics -- acting, reflecting, writing, reflecting, and preparing myself for the next steps in my career.

First stop: ADVANCED SCENE STUDY at the pristine STELLA ADLER STUDIOS in New York City.

I've also taken the GOLD'S GYM 12 WEEK CHALLENGE to get in shape for the camera (and my own health). It's time.

And then, of course, too, as mentioned above, I'll be reflecting on my past experiences. Thus, please check back in to see clips of my work, as well as updates of what lies yet undone.

2007 NYWIFT Muse Awards

2007-12-17T14:18:00.000-08:00

My Muses and Mentors: Terry Lawler and Lamonia Brown from New York Women in Film & Television

2007 Hampton International Film Festival

2007-11-12T05:57:00.000-08:00

President of Women's Film Network, Andriana Shaw, and I by the pool of a house at the Hampton International Film Festival in October

I drove out (by car via ferry) to the Hampton International Film Festival to meet and assist at the New York Women in Film and Television annual Hampton party and ended up enjoying several other events staged there that weekend, as well -- including the Lifetime event on Saturday afternoon.

The big thrill of the weekend soared around the Hampton Women's Short Film selection in which six films, directed by women, were exhibited. Incredible. There's nothing as inspiring as seeing your fellow peers' works. Finally, I can officially say that I felt I belonged in a room with women who adore the same thing I do: movie-making.

Hampton Film Festival

2007-10-24T18:40:00.000-07:00

I traveled to the Hamptons for the Hampton International Film Festival last week. There are pictures to share!

Stay tuned!

New York Women in Film and Television

2007-10-01T11:50:00.000-07:00

It's official: four months after sending in my application to the prestigious and empowering organization for women in film and television in New York City, I received a phone call and was invited to their office near Madison Avenue in the city of my dreams for an interview.

The next week, I walked in, a moved-out-of-Michigan suburban mom looking to relink my future profession to my past career, and walked out, an hour later, with a new lease on life, a fresh perspective toward my tangible goals, and a lighter hop to my step.

I started my internship a week later and ran my first errand to The Daily Show offices to deliver a special invitation package to the comedian/actress Samantha Bee.

Didn't I do this when I was 18? No. I was going to college then. How about my twenties? Yes, okay, you got me. But not in the profession of my dreams: the entertainment industry of film and television.

I'm not going to apologize for being a late bloomer. I've lived the life and had more careers in my thirty years than most have had in fifty. And that means that I've got a list of stories to tell -- oooodles of them. Not a bad thing to have when you're looking to write screenplays.

Don't write me off just yet.

Provincetown Tennessee Williams Play Festival

2007-07-16T06:48:00.000-07:00

I'll be playing "Paulina" in an adaptation of Tennessee William's take on Checkov's "The Seagull." Katherine Mendeloff, of the University of Michigan Theatre Program at the Residential College, will be directing.

Check it out!
http://www.twptown.org/tickets.htm

Rush Tango

2007-06-26T12:57:00.000-07:00

I just finished playing the dry, yet witty psychiatrist in Dee Darusha's short 16mm independent film "Rush Tango" and will be adding her web site link to this page in the days to come.

Next week, I'm giving it a go at acting in a western -- Michael Back, the director, wrote in more dialogue for my character after I auditioned for him. I can't wait to try this film genre on for acting size.

Needless-to-say, I'm so thrilled to be making this transition from acting on the stage to in front of the camera. There's a intimacy that you can give with cinematic acting that isn't always in the cards for the theatre... at least community theatre.

Nothing captures tears or laugh lines like an ECU.

More to come...
H

The Best Decision...

2007-05-23T12:15:00.000-07:00

...I ever made was to go to film school at the Motion Picture Institute of Michigan. I've always loved acting in front of the camera, but felt that there were certain key elements to the process that I didn't understand -- and was too embarrassed to ask about.

Now I understand the process from the inside-out as a director, writer, and cinematographer -- and this has made all the difference in the world in my acting for the camera.

My horizons are bigger than ever before and I feel empowered as an artist. I encourage you, if you're searching for more, to do the same. All it takes is the faith in your abilities and the courage to persevere.

A Fork in the Road

2007-05-04T18:45:00.000-07:00

One day of principle photography for A FORK IN THE ROAD down, two to go. So far all of the hard work is paying off. "Fork's" stellar cast and talented crew are creating one heck of a short narrative drama. (For more info on the cast and crew, go to the links section of this Blog).

Interested in seeing your name up on the silver screen? By purchasing film ($10 a foot), you join the Executive Producers Club. A purchase of 10 feet entitles you to a premier showing seat, a DVD copy of the film, complete with the Director's Cut, and a T-Shirt. And you will have supported your local community arts.

More info on how to support coming soon.

Nightmares of a First-time Female Director on the Eve of Principle Photography for "Fork..."

2007-04-30T04:18:00.000-07:00

I tossed and turned last night, the nightmares haunting me as I dreamed the most worst-case scenario for a film shoot imaginable:

My whole crew turned up late, bringing friends they thought would have fun "watching," and my Director of Photography spent more time flirting with the girls in the local cafe than prepping for coverage.

Running around, screaming and firing individuals right and left of me, I frantically attempted to ground myself and gain back some sort of control over the set and my sanity. But by the time, I found my cameraman, my actors were running away from me.

Ever had one of those?

This morning I opened my Email to find my first "I can't come because you don't really need me afterall, do you?" cancellation.

Ahhhhhhhh, what lies before me on this first of three principal shooting days for "A FORK IN THE ROAD?"

Read on throughout the next four weeks to find out! ;-)

Come see "Oh, Had I Wings"

2007-04-19T11:31:00.000-07:00

Come support local filmmakers at the Lightworks Film Festival!

"Oh, Had I Wings," by Maggie Glass --(in which you'll sneak a peak of me in the role of "Mom") -- will be having its premiere at the Lightworks Film Festival this Saturday night, April 21st, at the Natural Science Auditorium on Central Campus at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

According to the schedule, the honors theses will be screened at 10:35 pm on Saturday night:
http://www.umich.edu/~fvsa/lightworks/program/
Soon the postings of each individual film will be up on the site, so you can see exactly when "Oh, Had I Wings" will be screened.

Director Maggie Glass recommends coming earlier, just in case the schedule gets shifted, and in order to see other great works in filmmaking art.

On the Slate

2007-04-18T18:33:00.000-07:00

All those years of acting lessons are finally paying off.

I've got several film roles on the slate in the near future -- one is the role of a mother in a modern western, another is of a social worker in an incredible romantic drama, and a third is as a psychoanalyst in an incredible comedy.

More on those great new endeavors soon...

Filmmaking is Easy If You've Got Ten Arms

2007-03-20T19:52:00.000-07:00

The other day, some one told me that filmmaking is easy. Yeah, right. If you've got ten arms and absolute no need for sleep, it's easy-peasy.

I'm a visual thinker, always have been. I remember names, ideas and concepts in relation to an image which I saw or mentally constructed at the time of introduction. And I love mixing images with narrative concepts or poetry. Thus, directing comes more naturally to me than, say, chemistry or medicine.

As the beginning filmmaker, armed with only a student budget and a determined vision, one of the first lessons you learn when embarking on your big project is that you can't do it all alone. There's too many things that could go wrong, money that could be unwisely spent, mistakes that lurk in mental darkness, waiting to happen when you least expect it.

Filmmaking -- well crafted and beautifully told -- is, as far as I'm concerned, NOT easy.
If you're trying to accomplish any form of real storytelling with a sturdy moral premise and visually aesthetic promise, you quickly find that the true filmmaker is also a master delegate and manager and has truckloads of faith and trust.

Case in point: I've been in preproduction for my thesis film for several months, now. I wrote the twenty-page screenplay within a matter of weeks and, certain that it was perfect, quickly proceeded to cast the roles, find the locations, organize the crew and reserve the equipment. And then I submitted it to my mentor for approval.

"It has flaws," he said, "it's too wordy at times and, though it has a solid moral premise, doesn't clearly reveal the protagonist."

Back to the drawing board.

(To be continued next week...)

"Maggie" -- alias Barbara Coven-Ellis

2007-03-06T13:10:00.000-08:00

One of the best things about working and training as an actor, prior to beginning directing, is that you understand what the actor goes through, you know better how to communicate with the actor to "pull" out the performance you desire, and -- especially for film -- you have a list of friends and colleagues with whom to work

Such is the story behind my working with Barbara Coven-Ellis, a professionally trained, extremely accomplished and talented actor in the Michigan area.

I first met Barbara while understudying for the play "Honus and Me," directed by Guy Sanville, at the Purple Rose Theatre this past summer. Barbara had a major part and was on-stage six days a week, two times a day. A true professional -- with a big heart. As it was my first time working with an Equity theatre, I was quite nervous. But Barbara gave me helpful advice on acting, professionalism and life in general on numerous occassions. And, most importantly, when I told her that I was going to be going to film school in the fall, she didn't laugh at me.

Thus, I called her up when I wanted to take a crack at my first 1 minute 16mm short. She said, "yes." And, as I had hoped, was the consumate professional and supportive actor -- showing up early, completely prepared, and ready to stun the camera. She did.

So it seemed second-nature to call Barbara up when it came time to finding the lead female role for "Maggie," the dramatic and high strung, yet loving and sacrificing mother, in my 16mm 20-minute short, A FORK IN THE ROAD (which, by the way, has been officially registered at the Writers' Guild of America; I received my certificate today). Thank Heavens she accepted.

I couldn't picture a finer actress for the part.

Barbara has always treated me like a true professional. I'm stretching toward the stars to not disappoint her.

A Day in the Life of a Fledgling Filmmaker

2007-02-24T17:26:00.000-08:00

I dream in film shots, frames and cuts right now. My head's spinning around 180 degree and 30 degree rules. And I'm trying to find the perfect pencil to draw erasable lines along a straight and noble ruler for daily script coverage calculations.

Gearing up for my first big, solo directing project, "A Fork in the Road," I'm in preproduction Haedes and can only see dangling edges to tie together.

There's the shot list and the storyboard and then, "oh no!" a script rewrite--back to the shot list and storyboard. And then the actors, they changes according to whether or not they have the passion, or the time...or the money to allow themselves the time.

And if I could only relate my nightmares about film being ruined or underexposed or--worst of all--poorly shot and poorly directed.

Whewwww, I'm glad I have Doug Schulze and Kurt Mawry from the Motion Picture Institute of Michigan (sorry about the plug, dear reader, but they disserve it!), Rob Skates in Cinematography, Tim Savage for Screenwriting and, tada!, our new "Producing" class instructor, the incredible Kathleen McDermont, who could sail a preproduction perfect storm.

I'll be posting more about this filmmaking adventure in the days and weeks to come. And, as always, I welcome your comments (although go easy on the criticism, okay? I'm green at this).

H.P.

Projects on the Slate for 2007

2007-02-16T06:14:00.000-08:00

I've been busy working on a variety of projects with some of my favorite female artists and humanitarians.

In PREPRODUCTION: "Motherhood"
A tearful, humorous and thought-provoking ensemble piece about motherhood from different perspectives as seen through mothers around the world.

In PRODUCTION: "A Fork in the Road"
A short 16mm film about a father who's hit hard times--and the son who helps him back to his feet.

In POSTPRODUCTION: "Women in Berlin"
A documentary about five unique and passionate American women living in Berlin five years after the fall of the Berlin Wall--and where they are today.

I am looking to start my own non-profit organization in order to be able to apply for grants--if you are able to help or know of anyone who might be able to help me achieve this endeavor, please contact me. (See the contact or comment button below).

Thanks and many warm regards,
H.E. Philipsen

Welcome to My Blog Site!

2007-02-13T12:50:00.000-08:00

Well, it's all finally coming together: I have a site leading to every endeavor and all my endeavors lead back to me.

I welcome you to check out my links -- they represent all of my affiliations, both professional and academic -- and present an overall picture of my background.

More in the days and weeks to come~

Thanks for stopping by!
Heidi