DJ's JOURNEY
"Another
day, another
film... and
more new
friends..."
day, another
film... and
more new
friends..."
September 24th, 2004
The squash is doing wonderful! Crazy changes happening. I have decided against going to
Hawaii to judge for Hawaiian Tropics Nationals. As tempting as it all is/was I am in the
midst of many very important deals. Having also gone to Maui not to long ago, I know
what kind of expenses I would hammer my credit card with. Running with the elite is a
major chore when I'm just a working actor/producer. My reasons also include a possible
acting gig in Virginia. Speaking of Virginia, the JUDGES, new sneak peek trailer will play
at the Virginia Beach Film Festival, the first week of October. I might fly out to Virginia
for that shoot, meet with the JUDGES gang, and also meet with Kevin Hershberger as we
enter post-production with NO RETREAT. The crew is shooting the last segment this
weekend.
On WICKED SPRING, I have to say tht the love and support for that film continues to
pour in from around the country. I'm honestly touched and honored that people like the
movie and connected with my character, John, so well. I had a hardcore Sourthern lady
tell me that I was the first Union soldier (actor) that ever really moved her. Not sure
exactly what that means, but I think that is good. Kevin and I are starting to look for
another Civil War project that I may star in. If we find the right one then I may just go
for it! Damn that wool!
Let me see, other news. We have a few deals on the table for AN ORDINARY KILLER and
awaiting the last few offers. We will have that deal closed by years end. I may have to
travel to LA in October if the horror flim THE TASK shoots. They are trying not to lose a
major location and therefore may have to push to January, 2005. Either way I may have
to travel to LA to screen JUDGES, lock the deal on AOK and also set up WILD
MICHIGAN. The promotional short for WILD MICHIGAN is almost done and it looks
really cool. It has a LITTLE HOUSE, KUNG FU and LIFE & TIMES OF GRIZZLY
ADAMS influence to it. I think it will launch the film and possibly a larger deal may be in
the works with it, but we will see.
KNIGHT CHILLS and FROM VENUS will be heading to the horror network that I did my
writing for, The MONSTER CHANNEL. [www.themonsternetwork.tv/] They are filming
more this weekend and I got my paycheck! Very cool! Close to locking domestic deals on
our three early films.
I think we've set the release date for CDI's "Beyond Ordinary" for the day after
Thanksgiving. We are adding even more features to the DVD and I think people will really
love it. Our campaign will start in October in the Owosso area.
Got new headshots and I have to look at the proofs. I'm also going to put a new reel
together with footage from JUDGES, GPS, AOK (with actual music instead of temp)
Getting ready for a wonderful 2005!
Still waiting to see where CROSSING THE KINGS HIGHWAY will fall. A Western I'm cast
in has dates set for January 17th - February 20th in Arizona. May have a shoot in
November, also in Arizona. On CDI's CLOUDY IN THE WEST, waiting to hear back from
our name director, but other then that we are ready to roll with that one. PATCHWORK
GIRL FROM OZ is moving right along with music on deck after we get Dan Haggerty's
narration in. Hmmm... I know I'm missing stuff but that is as good of an update as I can
give for now. Back to work! Here are a few pictures I'm sending from GPS, thriller movie
I just shot in Seattle, Washington.
Bye now and everyone have a safe weekend.
DJ
Hawaii to judge for Hawaiian Tropics Nationals. As tempting as it all is/was I am in the
midst of many very important deals. Having also gone to Maui not to long ago, I know
what kind of expenses I would hammer my credit card with. Running with the elite is a
major chore when I'm just a working actor/producer. My reasons also include a possible
acting gig in Virginia. Speaking of Virginia, the JUDGES, new sneak peek trailer will play
at the Virginia Beach Film Festival, the first week of October. I might fly out to Virginia
for that shoot, meet with the JUDGES gang, and also meet with Kevin Hershberger as we
enter post-production with NO RETREAT. The crew is shooting the last segment this
weekend.
On WICKED SPRING, I have to say tht the love and support for that film continues to
pour in from around the country. I'm honestly touched and honored that people like the
movie and connected with my character, John, so well. I had a hardcore Sourthern lady
tell me that I was the first Union soldier (actor) that ever really moved her. Not sure
exactly what that means, but I think that is good. Kevin and I are starting to look for
another Civil War project that I may star in. If we find the right one then I may just go
for it! Damn that wool!
Let me see, other news. We have a few deals on the table for AN ORDINARY KILLER and
awaiting the last few offers. We will have that deal closed by years end. I may have to
travel to LA in October if the horror flim THE TASK shoots. They are trying not to lose a
major location and therefore may have to push to January, 2005. Either way I may have
to travel to LA to screen JUDGES, lock the deal on AOK and also set up WILD
MICHIGAN. The promotional short for WILD MICHIGAN is almost done and it looks
really cool. It has a LITTLE HOUSE, KUNG FU and LIFE & TIMES OF GRIZZLY
ADAMS influence to it. I think it will launch the film and possibly a larger deal may be in
the works with it, but we will see.
KNIGHT CHILLS and FROM VENUS will be heading to the horror network that I did my
writing for, The MONSTER CHANNEL. [www.themonsternetwork.tv/] They are filming
more this weekend and I got my paycheck! Very cool! Close to locking domestic deals on
our three early films.
I think we've set the release date for CDI's "Beyond Ordinary" for the day after
Thanksgiving. We are adding even more features to the DVD and I think people will really
love it. Our campaign will start in October in the Owosso area.
Got new headshots and I have to look at the proofs. I'm also going to put a new reel
together with footage from JUDGES, GPS, AOK (with actual music instead of temp)
Getting ready for a wonderful 2005!
Still waiting to see where CROSSING THE KINGS HIGHWAY will fall. A Western I'm cast
in has dates set for January 17th - February 20th in Arizona. May have a shoot in
November, also in Arizona. On CDI's CLOUDY IN THE WEST, waiting to hear back from
our name director, but other then that we are ready to roll with that one. PATCHWORK
GIRL FROM OZ is moving right along with music on deck after we get Dan Haggerty's
narration in. Hmmm... I know I'm missing stuff but that is as good of an update as I can
give for now. Back to work! Here are a few pictures I'm sending from GPS, thriller movie
I just shot in Seattle, Washington.
Bye now and everyone have a safe weekend.
DJ
Paul, good guy. DJ, bad dude. Daniel, good guy.
Me with Hallie, my
co-star. She plays the bad
dudes girlfriend.
co-star. She plays the bad
dudes girlfriend.
My first day on the
shoot... OH SHIT!!!
Someone is mixing up
blood... [Maybe I can
make them wear it first.]
shoot... OH SHIT!!!
Someone is mixing up
blood... [Maybe I can
make them wear it first.]
Trivia Time:
The person who has doused me in the most blood was
director Mike Kallio in SURVIVE (Forthcoming horror
film)
Most liquid crap thrown on me was by Jeff Kennedy in
FROM VENUS. (Forthcoming SciFi/Horror spoof)
I wore a suit more in AN ORDINARY KILLER than my
entire life combined.
NOTE: I own one suit, one tie, one blazer.
director Mike Kallio in SURVIVE (Forthcoming horror
film)
Most liquid crap thrown on me was by Jeff Kennedy in
FROM VENUS. (Forthcoming SciFi/Horror spoof)
I wore a suit more in AN ORDINARY KILLER than my
entire life combined.
NOTE: I own one suit, one tie, one blazer.
October 6th, 2004
Coffee, cabbage soup and again I write. We won our last soccer game for the outdoor
season. Made chili as I did some fall clean-up this past weekend. Darn, MSU lost quite
soundly. Worked to get my fireplace ready for the winter and messing with windows.
Checked with www.imdb.com to see if they listed JUDGES or GPS the movie and they had
not. Crazy how they evaluate what goes up. I saw heated debate on the message boards
over whether I was gay or not, funny stuff. A successful actor friend once told me it is
impossible to become a mega star if you don't have support of the gay community.
Mel Gibson, Harrison Ford, Tom Hanks, George Clooney and Brad Pitt all have the gay
fan base. I guess that makes sense, so maybe that is good that people are talking in that
direction?? I don't mind other then the direct lies. I knew the days of the Tabloid stuff
would start and why not start with IMDB? I'm also really BAT BOY and my current
girlfriend is a BIG FOOT. It might be that friend with the drinking problem that I wrote
about before. Petty stuff. Anybody who really knows me, knows that I love women.
My womanizing ways of my youth had given way to a kinder, deeper, more soulful side.
Companionship is just as important as intimacy. My mother still wishes for grandchildren
on a daily basis and I have to say that I do love children. I just have yet to meet the
woman that I would want in my life for the rest of my life. Many of my close friends are
now divorced and that makes me very cautious. Another business mentor said, "Love was
forever, when forever was 40 years." Back to the movies!
Exciting week ahead as we are opening the CDI Theater on a VOD site or Video On
Demand. KNIGHT CHILLS will be our 1st movie and maybe FROM VENUS will follow.
I think soon that FROM VENUS, HEAVEN'S NEIGHOBRS and FIGURE IN THE
FOREST will soon have a domestic home video release. The last few distributors are now
reviewing AN ORDINARY KILLER. We have two deals on the table now and I'm waiting
to get final reports in for the potential on a theatrical roll out of Michigan.
JUDGES has played at the Virginia Beach Film Festival and after seeing the trailer I think
people will dig it. See www.judgesthemovie.com to view the trailer and be sure to say hello
in the guest book. Our Lionheart Filmworks feature NO RETREAT FROM DESTINY is in
post. See www.wickedspringmovie.com and click on the link and I've had a first interest
there. www.gpsthemovie.com is also posted now and should start moving along in editing.
WILD MICHIGAN trailer is looking great and I have pitch meetings to investors,
distributors and networks coming up soon. Another "Mafia" picture is developing very
well. I'm trying to evaluate the market for those kind of films.
I am cast in a short film called AND JUSTICE FOR ALL. It is a cool little Western that
shoots at the end of the month. I'm also in the running for a part in an action/thriller with
actor Billy Drago, which shoots in November. I got a call to send material for a character
that Thadd, the producer of the Westerns listed below, thought I would be great for.
MIRACLE OF SAGE CREEK just hit Hollywood Reporter and I'll do that in January,
2005. Looks like Russel Means (Last Of The Mohicans) and Irene Bedard are among the
great cast lined up. I play Daniel, the ranch forman. Did he steal my WILD MICHIGAN?
Just kidding.
Read THE LAST HORSEMAN this weekend. I'm offered to play a supporting role as a
commanding soldier and best friend to the lead. It takes place during the
Mexican/American War. Good script and good role.
Our potential "CLOUDY" project in New Mexico is waiting on word from Promenade
Pictures.
Ray (Main producer) called today on CROSSING THE KINGS HIGHWAY. Seems the deal
is almost all together and the cool thing is that they are looking to shoot in Brazil again
due to the cold in Canada. I'm guessing that will shoot sometime during the 1st quarter of
2005.
Well, that seems to be the update. I'll be leaving for Virginia here in about two and a half
weeks and look forward to seeing many old friends.
Until next time,
DJ
season. Made chili as I did some fall clean-up this past weekend. Darn, MSU lost quite
soundly. Worked to get my fireplace ready for the winter and messing with windows.
Checked with www.imdb.com to see if they listed JUDGES or GPS the movie and they had
not. Crazy how they evaluate what goes up. I saw heated debate on the message boards
over whether I was gay or not, funny stuff. A successful actor friend once told me it is
impossible to become a mega star if you don't have support of the gay community.
Mel Gibson, Harrison Ford, Tom Hanks, George Clooney and Brad Pitt all have the gay
fan base. I guess that makes sense, so maybe that is good that people are talking in that
direction?? I don't mind other then the direct lies. I knew the days of the Tabloid stuff
would start and why not start with IMDB? I'm also really BAT BOY and my current
girlfriend is a BIG FOOT. It might be that friend with the drinking problem that I wrote
about before. Petty stuff. Anybody who really knows me, knows that I love women.
My womanizing ways of my youth had given way to a kinder, deeper, more soulful side.
Companionship is just as important as intimacy. My mother still wishes for grandchildren
on a daily basis and I have to say that I do love children. I just have yet to meet the
woman that I would want in my life for the rest of my life. Many of my close friends are
now divorced and that makes me very cautious. Another business mentor said, "Love was
forever, when forever was 40 years." Back to the movies!
Exciting week ahead as we are opening the CDI Theater on a VOD site or Video On
Demand. KNIGHT CHILLS will be our 1st movie and maybe FROM VENUS will follow.
I think soon that FROM VENUS, HEAVEN'S NEIGHOBRS and FIGURE IN THE
FOREST will soon have a domestic home video release. The last few distributors are now
reviewing AN ORDINARY KILLER. We have two deals on the table now and I'm waiting
to get final reports in for the potential on a theatrical roll out of Michigan.
JUDGES has played at the Virginia Beach Film Festival and after seeing the trailer I think
people will dig it. See www.judgesthemovie.com to view the trailer and be sure to say hello
in the guest book. Our Lionheart Filmworks feature NO RETREAT FROM DESTINY is in
post. See www.wickedspringmovie.com and click on the link and I've had a first interest
there. www.gpsthemovie.com is also posted now and should start moving along in editing.
WILD MICHIGAN trailer is looking great and I have pitch meetings to investors,
distributors and networks coming up soon. Another "Mafia" picture is developing very
well. I'm trying to evaluate the market for those kind of films.
I am cast in a short film called AND JUSTICE FOR ALL. It is a cool little Western that
shoots at the end of the month. I'm also in the running for a part in an action/thriller with
actor Billy Drago, which shoots in November. I got a call to send material for a character
that Thadd, the producer of the Westerns listed below, thought I would be great for.
MIRACLE OF SAGE CREEK just hit Hollywood Reporter and I'll do that in January,
2005. Looks like Russel Means (Last Of The Mohicans) and Irene Bedard are among the
great cast lined up. I play Daniel, the ranch forman. Did he steal my WILD MICHIGAN?
Just kidding.
Read THE LAST HORSEMAN this weekend. I'm offered to play a supporting role as a
commanding soldier and best friend to the lead. It takes place during the
Mexican/American War. Good script and good role.
Our potential "CLOUDY" project in New Mexico is waiting on word from Promenade
Pictures.
Ray (Main producer) called today on CROSSING THE KINGS HIGHWAY. Seems the deal
is almost all together and the cool thing is that they are looking to shoot in Brazil again
due to the cold in Canada. I'm guessing that will shoot sometime during the 1st quarter of
2005.
Well, that seems to be the update. I'll be leaving for Virginia here in about two and a half
weeks and look forward to seeing many old friends.
Until next time,
DJ
DJ Perry
CEO, Collective Development Inc.
www.cdifilms.com
VP, Lionheart Filmworks LLC
www.wickedspringmovie.com
CEO, Collective Development Inc.
www.cdifilms.com
VP, Lionheart Filmworks LLC
www.wickedspringmovie.com
October 17th, 2004
I'm doing this all in reverse now. It is a little past midnight and I'm drinking some tea.
My garden update... well... I better not quit movies to try and become a farmer any day
soon. I did get a handful of carrots that were a touch bigger then blades of grass and an
acorn squash that is only a few times larger then an actual acorn! I don't think that we'll
make it through the winter on our meager harvest.
Okay, down to business! Fielding some good offers on "AN ORDINARY KILLER" and yet
another party is evaluating it for theatrical value. We'll close this down soon.
NEWS FLASH - I won't announce who the distributor is because contracts are not yet
signed, but from a phone conference, it looks as if IN THE WOODS (My 1st horror
masterpiece, okay not really a master but my only piece at the time) is going to get a
Special Edition release. I hear that it will be a re-edit with many special goodies as to what
exactly it takes to have a film listed as on of IMDB's bottom 100. Not everyone can
achieve that. I'm told that it is in much demand with foreign collectors and that they think
foreign sales will do well. Also they are asking for an IN THE WOODS 2. God help us all!
KNIGHT CHILLS, also will get a new domestic re-release, most likely to sell through the
market and then a foreign push. Lastly FROM VENUS, our SciFi/Horror spoof, will get its
long awaited chance to spring upon Earthlings worldwide. They tried to bury this title like
a conspiracy. Go to the FROM VENUS link on this site to find out the secrets of FROM
VENUS. Audiences will enjoy my attempts at humor. Still trying to decide if they laugh
with me or at me? Well, laughing is half way there I was once told.
Waiting on responses but working to get our two family dramas - FIGURE IN THE
FOREST and HEAVEN'S NEIGHBORS out to market. BEYOND ORDINARY is gearing
up for a late November release... just in time for Christmas! JUDGES trailer and comic are
up at www.judgesthemovie.com so feel free to check out the trailer of me as a comic
character. Speaking of that, I'm also going to email a pic from THE PATCHWORK GIRL
OF OZ where I play the woodcutter. Far from the animated world I've included a pic of me
at the Hawaiian Tropic finals where I was one of the judges. I will try to get some other
pics up but this one is me with the winner Stephanie. She was a total sweetheart but, then
so were all of the ladies that night!
I'm pumped about going to Virginia to shoot and meet with old associates and friends.
Just used Russ Stine, who is FATHER KANE in JUDGES, as the voice over in WILD
MICHIGAN. He is the "old man" voice of the young boy, my son, in the movie. It works
perfect. We had the voice over from my point of view and I just didn't like it so... I fired
myself and we got Russ in there. It added a dimension of father and son that is really
endearing. I really love the whole story. Thadd should have a re-write for me by next
weekend and we'll get this out to some $$ people.
Still waiting to hear on the thriller called THE ANGER. I'm up for a lead from what I hear.
The January, 2005 shoot of MIRACLE AT SAGE CREEK is still on from what I've heard
and I'm also told that the horror film THE TASK is on for after Thanksgiving. I would
love to finish off the year with those two films. I really hope I can work with some of my
director friends in 2005. 2004 has been a wonderful year and I feel very blessed by the
great people and great stories I got to help tell this year. I'm getting ready to cut a new
reel. I had new pics taken and I'm excited to get some more of these movies out to
audiences.
I'm off to go study some lines. Hope everyone had a great weekend.
Best,
DJ
My garden update... well... I better not quit movies to try and become a farmer any day
soon. I did get a handful of carrots that were a touch bigger then blades of grass and an
acorn squash that is only a few times larger then an actual acorn! I don't think that we'll
make it through the winter on our meager harvest.
Okay, down to business! Fielding some good offers on "AN ORDINARY KILLER" and yet
another party is evaluating it for theatrical value. We'll close this down soon.
NEWS FLASH - I won't announce who the distributor is because contracts are not yet
signed, but from a phone conference, it looks as if IN THE WOODS (My 1st horror
masterpiece, okay not really a master but my only piece at the time) is going to get a
Special Edition release. I hear that it will be a re-edit with many special goodies as to what
exactly it takes to have a film listed as on of IMDB's bottom 100. Not everyone can
achieve that. I'm told that it is in much demand with foreign collectors and that they think
foreign sales will do well. Also they are asking for an IN THE WOODS 2. God help us all!
KNIGHT CHILLS, also will get a new domestic re-release, most likely to sell through the
market and then a foreign push. Lastly FROM VENUS, our SciFi/Horror spoof, will get its
long awaited chance to spring upon Earthlings worldwide. They tried to bury this title like
a conspiracy. Go to the FROM VENUS link on this site to find out the secrets of FROM
VENUS. Audiences will enjoy my attempts at humor. Still trying to decide if they laugh
with me or at me? Well, laughing is half way there I was once told.
Waiting on responses but working to get our two family dramas - FIGURE IN THE
FOREST and HEAVEN'S NEIGHBORS out to market. BEYOND ORDINARY is gearing
up for a late November release... just in time for Christmas! JUDGES trailer and comic are
up at www.judgesthemovie.com so feel free to check out the trailer of me as a comic
character. Speaking of that, I'm also going to email a pic from THE PATCHWORK GIRL
OF OZ where I play the woodcutter. Far from the animated world I've included a pic of me
at the Hawaiian Tropic finals where I was one of the judges. I will try to get some other
pics up but this one is me with the winner Stephanie. She was a total sweetheart but, then
so were all of the ladies that night!
I'm pumped about going to Virginia to shoot and meet with old associates and friends.
Just used Russ Stine, who is FATHER KANE in JUDGES, as the voice over in WILD
MICHIGAN. He is the "old man" voice of the young boy, my son, in the movie. It works
perfect. We had the voice over from my point of view and I just didn't like it so... I fired
myself and we got Russ in there. It added a dimension of father and son that is really
endearing. I really love the whole story. Thadd should have a re-write for me by next
weekend and we'll get this out to some $$ people.
Still waiting to hear on the thriller called THE ANGER. I'm up for a lead from what I hear.
The January, 2005 shoot of MIRACLE AT SAGE CREEK is still on from what I've heard
and I'm also told that the horror film THE TASK is on for after Thanksgiving. I would
love to finish off the year with those two films. I really hope I can work with some of my
director friends in 2005. 2004 has been a wonderful year and I feel very blessed by the
great people and great stories I got to help tell this year. I'm getting ready to cut a new
reel. I had new pics taken and I'm excited to get some more of these movies out to
audiences.
I'm off to go study some lines. Hope everyone had a great weekend.
Best,
DJ
DJ with the HAWAIIAN
TROPICS Queen... Stephanie
TROPICS Queen... Stephanie
"Where's 'Old Blue'? Hey!
Anyone seen my blue ox?"
Anyone seen my blue ox?"
October 24th, 2004
I'm here in Virginia and while it is a small bit warmer here then Michigan, it is COLD! So
far it has been very productive. I was preparing to leave from Fort Perry when I got an
email from Lou Angeli, a director from Deleware. He had cast Kera O'Bryon, an actress
from JUDGES, as a supporting character in his feature film STAR CHILD. They were
doing pickups before it heads to AFM. The cast consisted of many players from LAW &
ORDER and was some mix of STAR MAN and E.T.. He had seen the JUDGES trailer and
wanted to know if I would want to play a day player cameo in the movie. Two scenes, a
few bits of dialogue, and a darn good paycheck. He also said he wanted to talk with me
about a fire fighter film that is on deck next. Lou is a fire fighter fanatic (His former
profession) and I'm told he was a second unit on the film in theaters now called LADDER
49. So, long story short... Look for me as JIMMY an EMT in the feature film STAR
CHILD. Also now all my added expenses in Virginia will be picked up by Jimmy, the EMT.
Let's see. Special Editions of DJ's early work coming at you. KNIGHT CHILLS and IN
THE WOODS will be getting special edition releases and a major push on foreign sales via
Brain Damage Films. These two works have gotten much exposure and so as some
postings/reviews might point out they represent my best work at the time with the material
and resources we had at the time. With humor I read people debate if my work is terrific
or if it is crap and it made me think of choices we all make. Much like a Tom Hanks
interview I just read in the beginning there was no true choices, just courage. He took a
role because he was offered a role, period. He jumped in and swam the best he could.
Lack of experience, lack of time, lack of funds, lack of a well polished story all can
combine to create a movie that just lacks. But they do that also with 80 million dollar
pictures with all the conceivable resources. I have gotten much praise in letters, email and
in person for roles such as WICKED SPRING and AN ORDINARY KILLER. I can see what
happens when viewer of IN THE WOODS meet the viewers of WICKED SPRING. Two ends
of a spectrum but I can say that my heart and soul were into both equally. Maybe even
more so for IN THE WOODS, because it was my 1st starring role and my 1st Co-Producing
effort. We worked hard to get that picture off the ground. Harder then most critics will
ever possibly know. That is why with the special edition I'm excited about Lynn wanting to
re-edit and show all the behind the scenes battles. We can make some different choices
after living through it.
CHOICES :-) Yes. I've been trying to make good choices in my life. Best of all I think I
am making good choices. Listening to myself better then I have my entire life save maybe
childhood. These actions of making good choices and listening to my inner voice is
manifesting in all things including my performances. Evolution as we grow, as artists and
as people.
In the meantime, the retro-releasing of earlier films will continue to mix with current films.
FROM VENUS, our SciFi spoof that also marked our first major working with digital
effects will also be released prior to June 15, 2005 on domestic home video. Foreign sales
will also begin next month at AFM. HEAVEN'S NEIGHBORS and FIGURE IN THE
FOREST will also be heading out very soon. I know that some smart ass online reviewer
OR some disgruntled actor that was passed over in casting will have some great words on
the projects. "Don't hate the player, hate the game!" I say. I will continue to make
movies, make choices, evolve and I hope entertain. I really hope people will embrace the
growth and watch as the projects get larger and larger. I only feel in competition with
myself and I work very focused.
Tomorrow we have a rehearsal for AND JUSTICE FOR ALL. Looking forward to also
getting with Stephen Walker and making some decisions about the JUDGES premiere and
screenings in LA. Need to also get with Kevin Hershberger about NO RETREAT FROM
DESTINY, and see how we want to flow with that project.
Ray called yesterday from CROSSING THE KINGS HIGHWAY and the paperwork for the
banks reached another step and so we get closer to closing that deal down. Still waiting to
see about the November project with Billy Drago. The horror film THE TASK, should film
after Thanksgiving and there is that possibel fire fighter feature in December and lastly
January, 2005 should be MIRACLE AT SAGE CREEK. I watched OPEN RANGE last night
and what a great film. I really like Rober Duvall! I respect Kevin Costner.
I will give an update later in the week. I should also have AN ORDINARY KILLER update
very soon. Until then I hope everyone is doing well and as the year winds to a close that
everyone can reflect upon their choices and their growth. The wheel turns.
DJ
far it has been very productive. I was preparing to leave from Fort Perry when I got an
email from Lou Angeli, a director from Deleware. He had cast Kera O'Bryon, an actress
from JUDGES, as a supporting character in his feature film STAR CHILD. They were
doing pickups before it heads to AFM. The cast consisted of many players from LAW &
ORDER and was some mix of STAR MAN and E.T.. He had seen the JUDGES trailer and
wanted to know if I would want to play a day player cameo in the movie. Two scenes, a
few bits of dialogue, and a darn good paycheck. He also said he wanted to talk with me
about a fire fighter film that is on deck next. Lou is a fire fighter fanatic (His former
profession) and I'm told he was a second unit on the film in theaters now called LADDER
49. So, long story short... Look for me as JIMMY an EMT in the feature film STAR
CHILD. Also now all my added expenses in Virginia will be picked up by Jimmy, the EMT.
Let's see. Special Editions of DJ's early work coming at you. KNIGHT CHILLS and IN
THE WOODS will be getting special edition releases and a major push on foreign sales via
Brain Damage Films. These two works have gotten much exposure and so as some
postings/reviews might point out they represent my best work at the time with the material
and resources we had at the time. With humor I read people debate if my work is terrific
or if it is crap and it made me think of choices we all make. Much like a Tom Hanks
interview I just read in the beginning there was no true choices, just courage. He took a
role because he was offered a role, period. He jumped in and swam the best he could.
Lack of experience, lack of time, lack of funds, lack of a well polished story all can
combine to create a movie that just lacks. But they do that also with 80 million dollar
pictures with all the conceivable resources. I have gotten much praise in letters, email and
in person for roles such as WICKED SPRING and AN ORDINARY KILLER. I can see what
happens when viewer of IN THE WOODS meet the viewers of WICKED SPRING. Two ends
of a spectrum but I can say that my heart and soul were into both equally. Maybe even
more so for IN THE WOODS, because it was my 1st starring role and my 1st Co-Producing
effort. We worked hard to get that picture off the ground. Harder then most critics will
ever possibly know. That is why with the special edition I'm excited about Lynn wanting to
re-edit and show all the behind the scenes battles. We can make some different choices
after living through it.
CHOICES :-) Yes. I've been trying to make good choices in my life. Best of all I think I
am making good choices. Listening to myself better then I have my entire life save maybe
childhood. These actions of making good choices and listening to my inner voice is
manifesting in all things including my performances. Evolution as we grow, as artists and
as people.
In the meantime, the retro-releasing of earlier films will continue to mix with current films.
FROM VENUS, our SciFi spoof that also marked our first major working with digital
effects will also be released prior to June 15, 2005 on domestic home video. Foreign sales
will also begin next month at AFM. HEAVEN'S NEIGHBORS and FIGURE IN THE
FOREST will also be heading out very soon. I know that some smart ass online reviewer
OR some disgruntled actor that was passed over in casting will have some great words on
the projects. "Don't hate the player, hate the game!" I say. I will continue to make
movies, make choices, evolve and I hope entertain. I really hope people will embrace the
growth and watch as the projects get larger and larger. I only feel in competition with
myself and I work very focused.
Tomorrow we have a rehearsal for AND JUSTICE FOR ALL. Looking forward to also
getting with Stephen Walker and making some decisions about the JUDGES premiere and
screenings in LA. Need to also get with Kevin Hershberger about NO RETREAT FROM
DESTINY, and see how we want to flow with that project.
Ray called yesterday from CROSSING THE KINGS HIGHWAY and the paperwork for the
banks reached another step and so we get closer to closing that deal down. Still waiting to
see about the November project with Billy Drago. The horror film THE TASK, should film
after Thanksgiving and there is that possibel fire fighter feature in December and lastly
January, 2005 should be MIRACLE AT SAGE CREEK. I watched OPEN RANGE last night
and what a great film. I really like Rober Duvall! I respect Kevin Costner.
I will give an update later in the week. I should also have AN ORDINARY KILLER update
very soon. Until then I hope everyone is doing well and as the year winds to a close that
everyone can reflect upon their choices and their growth. The wheel turns.
DJ
October 31st, 2004
It is the wee hours of the 31st of October. Actually with the fall back in time it is 12:00. I
was going to go to a Halloween get together but I just couldn't pull it together after
shooting tonight. I was tired to say the least. What an excellent day we had as the
Oklahoma Kid stood off with bandits in wild shoot outs in the streets with my trusty
Winchester rifle. We had cowboys, saloon girls, and a cool little mining town encampment
that provided a wonderful backdrop to our story. I had some great scenes with a Native
American actor named "Two Feathers". The movie is just a meaningful story of a simple
man who tries to bring change to a town before they are ready. I'm already very proud of
the work we are all doing.
CONT. November 2nd, 2004
We finished shooting yesterday and it was an awesome experience. The day started with
horse riding on my part. I had "Angel" that was anything but an angel. She kept gettin
spooked and even "bucked" several times. She was not use to the terrain and just was
plain moody. I tied her to a fence in a scene and she pulled the fence gate down. We did
get some great footage but today I am feeling really sore. I'm also 0-2 on dealing with
moddy horses. The horse on WILD MICHIGAN got spooked as well... But I stayed on
them both so, I guess that counts for something. The actors and the crew of AND
JUSTICE FOR ALL made it all worthwhile. Roger did a great job directing. I learned how
to throw a knife quite well from "Two Feathers" on our lunch break. He also taught Collin
Ferrell on THE NEW WORLD. I also got to throw an axe but that didn't flow as well.
Getting ready to head home and do some winter prep work on Fort Perry. Got a call from
Producer Ray about CROSSING THE KING'S HIGHWAY and we are close to go. MONEY
SHOT was optioned to Heroic Entertainment in L.A. and they will work to set that up at a
studio. THE TASK, the horror film in L.A. looks like it will shoot right after Thanksgiving.
We will work to sign our deal on AN ORDINARY KILLER, lock finance on WILD
MICHIGAN and release BEYOND ORDINARY in November here so it should be a busy
month.
I'm going to go get ready for dinner tonight with Stephen and Emily Walker and discuss
our release on the JUDGES movie.
Until next time.
DJ
Quick note from the Webmaster:
There has been several fans wanting to send DJ mail through the postal system so, DJ and I
had a chat about it. Though it has been posted to a Message Board, he does prefer that
you send mail to him at:
DJ Perry
c/o BJ Mathes
916 S.Gordon #228
Alvin, Texas 77511
If you are requesting autographed pictures, please include a self-stamped address envelope
and $5.00 per photo to help cover the running cost of the website. Please make
checks/money orders payable to BJ Mathes.
Many thanks to all of the fans.
Pepper
was going to go to a Halloween get together but I just couldn't pull it together after
shooting tonight. I was tired to say the least. What an excellent day we had as the
Oklahoma Kid stood off with bandits in wild shoot outs in the streets with my trusty
Winchester rifle. We had cowboys, saloon girls, and a cool little mining town encampment
that provided a wonderful backdrop to our story. I had some great scenes with a Native
American actor named "Two Feathers". The movie is just a meaningful story of a simple
man who tries to bring change to a town before they are ready. I'm already very proud of
the work we are all doing.
CONT. November 2nd, 2004
We finished shooting yesterday and it was an awesome experience. The day started with
horse riding on my part. I had "Angel" that was anything but an angel. She kept gettin
spooked and even "bucked" several times. She was not use to the terrain and just was
plain moody. I tied her to a fence in a scene and she pulled the fence gate down. We did
get some great footage but today I am feeling really sore. I'm also 0-2 on dealing with
moddy horses. The horse on WILD MICHIGAN got spooked as well... But I stayed on
them both so, I guess that counts for something. The actors and the crew of AND
JUSTICE FOR ALL made it all worthwhile. Roger did a great job directing. I learned how
to throw a knife quite well from "Two Feathers" on our lunch break. He also taught Collin
Ferrell on THE NEW WORLD. I also got to throw an axe but that didn't flow as well.
Getting ready to head home and do some winter prep work on Fort Perry. Got a call from
Producer Ray about CROSSING THE KING'S HIGHWAY and we are close to go. MONEY
SHOT was optioned to Heroic Entertainment in L.A. and they will work to set that up at a
studio. THE TASK, the horror film in L.A. looks like it will shoot right after Thanksgiving.
We will work to sign our deal on AN ORDINARY KILLER, lock finance on WILD
MICHIGAN and release BEYOND ORDINARY in November here so it should be a busy
month.
I'm going to go get ready for dinner tonight with Stephen and Emily Walker and discuss
our release on the JUDGES movie.
Until next time.
DJ
Quick note from the Webmaster:
There has been several fans wanting to send DJ mail through the postal system so, DJ and I
had a chat about it. Though it has been posted to a Message Board, he does prefer that
you send mail to him at:
DJ Perry
c/o BJ Mathes
916 S.Gordon #228
Alvin, Texas 77511
If you are requesting autographed pictures, please include a self-stamped address envelope
and $5.00 per photo to help cover the running cost of the website. Please make
checks/money orders payable to BJ Mathes.
Many thanks to all of the fans.
Pepper
As Aerosmith says, "I'm back in the saddle again." Actually I better get to riding horses
more because my last two outings have been less than great. I'm back in Michigan and
ready to get everything wrapped up for the year and ready for 2005. Just winterizing Fort
Perry against the bitter cold that I know will come soon.
Had a Cuban dinner party last night with the assistant writers working with my story point
man Mike Penino, on a mafia action/drama that we are developing. We all shared great
food, wine and conversation.
Also starting to put stuff together for a horror/comedy film to shoot down South. Terry
Jernigan and I are developing it and we have a financial battle plan. This will possibly
capitalize on the release and re-releases of IN THE WOODS, FROM VENUS and KNIGHT
CHILLS.
*Note: also the possibilty of another project with Lynn Drzick.
Working on setting up NIGHT FALL with Kevin Hershberger as we work on NO RETREAT
that is in post production.
Also we have now completed the WILD MICHIGAN trailer and I have a first round of
meetings and send outs this week. Thadd should have my new 2nd draft of the script by
the end of the week.
Lastly we are going to make some decisions about the New Mexico projects, which has
funding in place and whom we need to slate soon.
Jeff Kennedy and Tony Hornus are both developing stories to direct. Jeff is working on a
horror script and Tony another powerful drama. I'm finishing a few writing properties as
well.
2005 CDI slate and 2005 Lionheart slate:
WILD MICHIGAN, NIGHT FALL
New Mexico Project
Untitled Horror/Comedy
Sounds like an interesting year developing.
JUDGES, GPS, FROM VENUS, AN ORDINARY KILLER, FIGURE IN THE FOREST,
HEAVEN'S NEIGHBORS and change all heading out to market in 2005.
Well, I've started Christmas shopping already and tonight will be a good CDI meeting and
we will plot the direrction of CDI for 2005.
Best to all,
DJ
more because my last two outings have been less than great. I'm back in Michigan and
ready to get everything wrapped up for the year and ready for 2005. Just winterizing Fort
Perry against the bitter cold that I know will come soon.
Had a Cuban dinner party last night with the assistant writers working with my story point
man Mike Penino, on a mafia action/drama that we are developing. We all shared great
food, wine and conversation.
Also starting to put stuff together for a horror/comedy film to shoot down South. Terry
Jernigan and I are developing it and we have a financial battle plan. This will possibly
capitalize on the release and re-releases of IN THE WOODS, FROM VENUS and KNIGHT
CHILLS.
*Note: also the possibilty of another project with Lynn Drzick.
Working on setting up NIGHT FALL with Kevin Hershberger as we work on NO RETREAT
that is in post production.
Also we have now completed the WILD MICHIGAN trailer and I have a first round of
meetings and send outs this week. Thadd should have my new 2nd draft of the script by
the end of the week.
Lastly we are going to make some decisions about the New Mexico projects, which has
funding in place and whom we need to slate soon.
Jeff Kennedy and Tony Hornus are both developing stories to direct. Jeff is working on a
horror script and Tony another powerful drama. I'm finishing a few writing properties as
well.
2005 CDI slate and 2005 Lionheart slate:
WILD MICHIGAN, NIGHT FALL
New Mexico Project
Untitled Horror/Comedy
Sounds like an interesting year developing.
JUDGES, GPS, FROM VENUS, AN ORDINARY KILLER, FIGURE IN THE FOREST,
HEAVEN'S NEIGHBORS and change all heading out to market in 2005.
Well, I've started Christmas shopping already and tonight will be a good CDI meeting and
we will plot the direrction of CDI for 2005.
Best to all,
DJ
November 8th, 2004
November 16th, 2004
Sitting in my kitchen sippin' coffee. Thought it was time for another good little update
from FORT PERRY! Had a test screening of the WILD MICHIGAN trailer after our weekly
meeting at a local place. A card club was in the room and so we played it for them and
they really loved it. It does have a great look, cast, music, etc.. Russ Stine did the
narration and sounded great. He was Father Kane in the upcoming JUDGES movie. We
must all give our thought and prayers to Russ. He had a stroke last week but seems to be
recovering rapidly. I told him he's not getting out of the JUDGES sequel that easy!
I've been putting the finishing touches on a script called THE LONG TRIP HOME for
fellow actor/producer Dean West. It deals with life in North Carolina. Mountain
simplicity, bluegrass, etc.. That will be done this month. It is meant to be a follow up
project for Dean somewhere down the line. He did a great job in FIGURE IN THE
FOREST and I'm excited to see him tackle a lead role again.
Should have reports and MONEY coming in on KNIGHT CHILLS box sets, so that's cool.
Also talked with our new distributor on KNIGHT CHILLS & FROM VENUS and both got
picked up for home video release in the UK. He thought other territories had also sold but
that is what he had in front of him. The FROM VENUS invasion begins and the crusade of
KNIGHT CHILLS continues! (Dramatic music!)
I'm developing a script with Terry Jernigan in VA that will be a comedy/horror pic. I know
that Jeff Kennedy is working on a non-comedic horror script and so we have a good thing
rolling with that whole genre. I've been doing some interviews promoting and talking
about the IN THE WOODS & KNIGHT CHILLS special edition releases and the FROM
VENUS release. The upcoming GPS movie should have a trailer by years end. I hear that
film is quite frightening.
ACTING: I'm up for a lead in a dramatic September 11th picture and should know more
soon on that because they start filming in December. The director said that Damian Lewis
from BAND OF BROTHERS, DREAMCATCHER, etc., might be joining the cast. The
director wants to use me but which character is the question. Another interesting thing is
that he flip-flopped his film slate and the other film that he initially wanted me in ties in to
this one. He isn't doing sequels but cross-over characters.
Producer buddy Ray left another amusing message this morning again updating on
CROSSING THE KING'S HIGHWAY. THE TASK is looking at January, 2005 scheduling
bump. Still weighing the distribution choices on AN ORDINARY KILLER. FIGURE IN
THE FOREST & HEAVEN'S NEIGHBORS are being evaluated by a few companies.
JUDGES and PATCHWORK GIRL OF OZ race for the finish line! WILD MICHIGAN short
goes out to investors this week. All is good! I'm sending a few pictures from AND
JUSTICE FOR ALL. Two Feathers is a cool dude! Until next time my friends,
DJ
from FORT PERRY! Had a test screening of the WILD MICHIGAN trailer after our weekly
meeting at a local place. A card club was in the room and so we played it for them and
they really loved it. It does have a great look, cast, music, etc.. Russ Stine did the
narration and sounded great. He was Father Kane in the upcoming JUDGES movie. We
must all give our thought and prayers to Russ. He had a stroke last week but seems to be
recovering rapidly. I told him he's not getting out of the JUDGES sequel that easy!
I've been putting the finishing touches on a script called THE LONG TRIP HOME for
fellow actor/producer Dean West. It deals with life in North Carolina. Mountain
simplicity, bluegrass, etc.. That will be done this month. It is meant to be a follow up
project for Dean somewhere down the line. He did a great job in FIGURE IN THE
FOREST and I'm excited to see him tackle a lead role again.
Should have reports and MONEY coming in on KNIGHT CHILLS box sets, so that's cool.
Also talked with our new distributor on KNIGHT CHILLS & FROM VENUS and both got
picked up for home video release in the UK. He thought other territories had also sold but
that is what he had in front of him. The FROM VENUS invasion begins and the crusade of
KNIGHT CHILLS continues! (Dramatic music!)
I'm developing a script with Terry Jernigan in VA that will be a comedy/horror pic. I know
that Jeff Kennedy is working on a non-comedic horror script and so we have a good thing
rolling with that whole genre. I've been doing some interviews promoting and talking
about the IN THE WOODS & KNIGHT CHILLS special edition releases and the FROM
VENUS release. The upcoming GPS movie should have a trailer by years end. I hear that
film is quite frightening.
ACTING: I'm up for a lead in a dramatic September 11th picture and should know more
soon on that because they start filming in December. The director said that Damian Lewis
from BAND OF BROTHERS, DREAMCATCHER, etc., might be joining the cast. The
director wants to use me but which character is the question. Another interesting thing is
that he flip-flopped his film slate and the other film that he initially wanted me in ties in to
this one. He isn't doing sequels but cross-over characters.
Producer buddy Ray left another amusing message this morning again updating on
CROSSING THE KING'S HIGHWAY. THE TASK is looking at January, 2005 scheduling
bump. Still weighing the distribution choices on AN ORDINARY KILLER. FIGURE IN
THE FOREST & HEAVEN'S NEIGHBORS are being evaluated by a few companies.
JUDGES and PATCHWORK GIRL OF OZ race for the finish line! WILD MICHIGAN short
goes out to investors this week. All is good! I'm sending a few pictures from AND
JUSTICE FOR ALL. Two Feathers is a cool dude! Until next time my friends,
DJ
Quick note: DJ recently did another interview
concerning KNIGHT CHILLS. It can be located
by visiting the INTERVIEWS page and clicking
on the poster of the movie.
concerning KNIGHT CHILLS. It can be located
by visiting the INTERVIEWS page and clicking
on the poster of the movie.
Two Feathers and DJ on the
set AND JUSTICE FOR
ALL
set AND JUSTICE FOR
ALL
November 25, 2004
Let me see, what is new in the crazy world of DJ. We were expecting the 1st snow here and
we GOT it! Went to see Oliver Stone's movie ALEXANDER and came out to a blizzard.
Terry Jernigan had all good things about working and playing (drinking) with Collin
Ferrell on THE NEW WORLD so I had to check it out. I would give it 3 of 5 stars. It was
like TROY, some great parts, somewhat too long and also needed better character
development for the supporting characters. Angelina Jolie was HOT and actually pulled
off some impressive drama.
Thanks to the hard work, Fort Perry was ready to face the attacking army of Jack Frost
and the ice gnomes. Did a touch more Christmas shopping and so I'm working to beat the
rush. I've been having problems with my wireless computer and so I 've been on a forced
break from online work. This will go up after Thanksgiving I'm sure. So soon after this
coffee and shower it is off to my Aunt and Uncle's for food. Mamma is in Las Vegas so
I'm sure she is having a great time with her old high school friend.
There are many things to be thankful for on this holiday. I must note that while history of
this great country would be forever changed, I think the Native American's would have
been better off killing the strangers and burning the ships to the water. Actually the other
side of the coin is that someone would have most likely come over to the America's with
the same agenda. I have great sympathy for the Native people.
I can be thankful that I've recently landed the lead role in a highly charged drama that will
have me playing a fireman/filmmaker at "Ground Zero" following September 11th. I'm to
lock in paperwork and a schedule this coming week. It starts filming in December and so I
have to get my affairs in order. I'll have a website for you in the next update.
January should have both MIRACLE AT SAGE CREEK and THE TASK shooting. I would
play a "Cowboy ranch foreman" and "Computer Nerd". I'm looking forward to the trips
to Arizona and L.A. and taking part in these two pictures.
I'm waiting to hear on the casting for the Billy Drago feature and an untitled horror/thriller
in March that I was approached about. CROSSING THE KING'S HIGHWAY, which are all
signed just chugs down the pre-production tracks. Ray had a phone conference call with
Mark Koch and all that seems to be FINALLY coming together.
Working deals on AN ORDINARY KILLER (see pic of co-star Terence Knox) and NO
RETREAT FROM DESTINY. Also working on both Kevin Hershberger's and Tony
Hornus's follow up projects for 2005.
Should have completed AND JUSTICE FOR ALL by December 15th and JUDGES should
be near final picture lock.
I appreciate all the work Pepper is doing on the site. As she noted she is selling signed
autographs to get a full .com site and other computer hardware/software to keep things
moving. Thank you to the fans that sent in the kind notes. I look forward to a coming
year and hope everyone is having a safe and enjoyable holiday.
Happy Belated Thanksgiving!
DJ
we GOT it! Went to see Oliver Stone's movie ALEXANDER and came out to a blizzard.
Terry Jernigan had all good things about working and playing (drinking) with Collin
Ferrell on THE NEW WORLD so I had to check it out. I would give it 3 of 5 stars. It was
like TROY, some great parts, somewhat too long and also needed better character
development for the supporting characters. Angelina Jolie was HOT and actually pulled
off some impressive drama.
Thanks to the hard work, Fort Perry was ready to face the attacking army of Jack Frost
and the ice gnomes. Did a touch more Christmas shopping and so I'm working to beat the
rush. I've been having problems with my wireless computer and so I 've been on a forced
break from online work. This will go up after Thanksgiving I'm sure. So soon after this
coffee and shower it is off to my Aunt and Uncle's for food. Mamma is in Las Vegas so
I'm sure she is having a great time with her old high school friend.
There are many things to be thankful for on this holiday. I must note that while history of
this great country would be forever changed, I think the Native American's would have
been better off killing the strangers and burning the ships to the water. Actually the other
side of the coin is that someone would have most likely come over to the America's with
the same agenda. I have great sympathy for the Native people.
I can be thankful that I've recently landed the lead role in a highly charged drama that will
have me playing a fireman/filmmaker at "Ground Zero" following September 11th. I'm to
lock in paperwork and a schedule this coming week. It starts filming in December and so I
have to get my affairs in order. I'll have a website for you in the next update.
January should have both MIRACLE AT SAGE CREEK and THE TASK shooting. I would
play a "Cowboy ranch foreman" and "Computer Nerd". I'm looking forward to the trips
to Arizona and L.A. and taking part in these two pictures.
I'm waiting to hear on the casting for the Billy Drago feature and an untitled horror/thriller
in March that I was approached about. CROSSING THE KING'S HIGHWAY, which are all
signed just chugs down the pre-production tracks. Ray had a phone conference call with
Mark Koch and all that seems to be FINALLY coming together.
Working deals on AN ORDINARY KILLER (see pic of co-star Terence Knox) and NO
RETREAT FROM DESTINY. Also working on both Kevin Hershberger's and Tony
Hornus's follow up projects for 2005.
Should have completed AND JUSTICE FOR ALL by December 15th and JUDGES should
be near final picture lock.
I appreciate all the work Pepper is doing on the site. As she noted she is selling signed
autographs to get a full .com site and other computer hardware/software to keep things
moving. Thank you to the fans that sent in the kind notes. I look forward to a coming
year and hope everyone is having a safe and enjoyable holiday.
Happy Belated Thanksgiving!
DJ
