One Tin Soldier Rode Away…

I am shocked and saddened to learn that Tom Laughlin has passed away.  Even though he was 82, his death was unexpected.  For those of you who do not know who he is, I consider him to be the grandfather of the Independent Film.  He is the one who took on Warner Bros. and then distributed his own films which are still among the highest selling films of all time.  I am referring to the “Billy Jack” Trilogy.  These films inspired an entire generation to look within themselves and to try to make a difference in the world.  The release of “Billy Jack” also signaled the birth of a whole new way of marketing film–and it changed the industry whether some recognize this or not.  The world of Independent Film owes this man much more than people realize.  So it is here I will pay my tribute. I cannot think of a more fitting tribute than to close with this:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qswm7lHp7oY

My thoughts and prayers go out to his friends, his wife of 60 years, Delores, and his children and grandchildren.

Here is a copy of the obituary as well:Obituary – Tom Laughlin (1)

This is an Indie Film Worth Supporting!

She remembers those days well…Walking into class with a pencil, the same clothes she had to wear for two days straight, her book and no paper…When she tried to borrow paper the student she asked told her, “Get your own! You’re always out of stuff!”  Embarrassed, by the situation she then asked the teacher if she had some that she could borrow.  In those days teachers weren’t that keen on it, but she knew the child’s situation at home…There was no money.  The teacher handed her a folder with ten sheets of paper with her name on it.  She then said to her, “This is your paper folder. Bring it to me every day and I will keep refilling it.”

Smiling the little girl did so.  Her grades came up and she seemed happier, even though other kids in her class picked on her.   I should remember her well…I was that child.  I didn’t always have what I needed due to things taking place at home–but at least I HAD a roof over my head.  Many of these students do not.  That is where School on Wheels comes in.  You can find out more via the link below. They have been providing tutoring services to homeless students since 1993.  This is definitely a worthwhile cause to support and more organizations like this are needed around the nation!

Now I want to tell you a way that you can help that might interest you as well.  IF you are a patron of the arts, and support independent film makers, then you need to check out the trailer for the picture “Lost in a Crowd” that is soon to be released.  The cast and crew have decided that they will give 10% of all funding raised to School on Wheels, Inc.   You can view the trailer here:

http://www.indiegogo.com/LIAC

There are also rewards in this for you depending on the amount you choose to give.  There are many independent films that do not make it to mainstream markets due to various factors, but this is a film that deserves to have support.  You will be seeing a lot more of this cast and crew in the future.

There is also a link on the home page that will take you to the main website for School on Wheels for when you’d like to give supplies, volunteer, etc…

Again, this is a worthwhile cause to be a part of, and for as little as $10, you can make the difference in the life of a student with needs this holiday season.  Thank you and have a great week!

This is a Film You Need to Check Out! I’ll Tell You Why…

I have a lot of respect for the Indie film market because those in it reach out to wide audiences of every race, religion, creed, etc…Often the cast and crew give of their time to help those in need.  This is about one such group who have put their energy into a new film.  Right now they are raising money to get the film marketed, but 10% will go to Schools on Wheels, an organization that is making a difference in the lives of homeless students in Los Angeles.  I had never heard of Schools on Wheels prior to this film, but I am hoping that these pop up all over the place, because they are very much-needed!

Here is a link to School on Wheels here:  http://www.schoolonwheels.org/  and they are worth checking out!

The name of the film is called “Lost in a Crowd”.  Aside from being a pretty darned good movie, they are donating 10% of any money used to promote the film to School on Wheels!  You can check out the trailer and such here:   http://www.indiegogo.com/LIAC    This film  also marks the directorial début of Micah Cohen!  Also here is a partial list of the cast: Timothy Ryan Cole, Luke Albright,  David L. Murphy, Gary Cairns and Marta McGonagle.    I really wish these guys the best as they have put a lot of hard work and dedication into this project!

Have a great week!

Tina