Thursday, October 30, 2008

Presenting At Oconto Falls High School Film & Media Class

Presenting to a film and media class at Oconto Falls, Danny Wilson, Nephilim creator and director, responds to the question, "What inspires your creative thoughts?"



Students preparing to produce their own film trailers were part of a workshop presented by Danny Wilson and Producer, Susan Moses. The workshop was organized by Michelle Hammond, who graduated from Oconto Falls in 1995. Hammond currently works withe the production team at Green Bay's Pulse Studios.

Video footage provided by Ami Irmen

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Lawrence Hosts Nephilim




Danny Wilson (Director/Writer), Susan Moses (Producer), Huyen Thi (Actress) and Cyndee Sweetland (Art Director) were hosted at Lawrence University in Appleton, WI by the student-run film society on Monday, October 20. The group presented a panel discussion covering topics ranging from the process of developing a project from idea to screen, how Nephilim was specifically developed, the actor’s process and readying for a role, and how the art department interacts with other creative departments. Students were given the opportunity to ask questions directing the discussion in ways that would benefit them the most.








After the forum, students gathered for a chance to speak directly to Wilson, Moses, Thi and Sweetland, and to sign up to be an extra for the film or express interest in an internship opportunity.








Future visits include the University of WI – Green Bay and Oconto Falls High School next week.

Nephilim Comics Sign New Colorist


Her real name, stage name and given name is Siya – like ‘see yah later’. (“I’ve heard that since elementary school.”) Drawing since as long as she can remember, Siya started with pencil and paper, but eventually moved on to painting first with tempra, then acrylics and oils. Eventually, she found her way to digital coloring. “My life is art,” she says. “Everything I do revolves around it.”

Siya, 27, has already accomplished more than most will in their lifetime – including starting two companies, Hyro Comis and Hyrogliphix, Inc. “[The name] was thought up by my younger brother, my dreams rolled into one ball of a name. My fascination with the Egyptian culture and the meaning behind it: pictures that tell stories, history, art.” She is a fulltime Illustrator, Comic Book Artist, Web Developer, Designer and, most recently, a concept artist for video games. “This is my first year in the game industry, so this year has been hectic and very exciting. My projects vary from month to month, from comics to concept design to short animation.”

“The first comic book I was featured in is ‘Grimm Fairy Tales Annual. More to come,” she says.

More to come indeed – Siya was recently hired as the new colorist for the Nephilim Comic Book Series. “In fifth grade, I picked up my first X-Men comic. The artist [was] Jim Lee. My dream then was to draw comic.” And she got that chance. After entering her work to get critique at a comic book show, she was given an opportunity with Witchblade, her favorite comic book at the time. She got what she wanted, but soon realized she wasn’t quite ready. “I thought I was good enough. I don’t want to be good enough.”

With scholarships and working her way through college, Siya received her degree in Digital Design and pursued her career as a comic artist. You will be able to see Siya’s work starting with the fifth issue of the Nephilim Comic Series. If you just can’t wait, you can also see previous work on her website at www.siyanimation.com or by visiting her myspace page at www.myspace.com/siya.

Get'em While They're Hot!!!!



People are asking about where they can purchase the Nephilim Comics. A local Green Bay comic store has been given a limited supply for advanced sale.

2300 S Oneida St
Green Bay, WI 54304
(920) 884-8483


Nephilim creator, Danny Wilson, can often be found there on Wednesdays after the 1pm shipment of new comics arrives.

Dave and Keith Powers, two brothers who opened up Powers Comics & Collectibles at the end of March 2007. We've both been comic book and action figure fans since we were wee ones.

Did we say, autographing comics?

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

UWGB Hosts Nephilim

Monday, October 13, 2008

Wilson and Moses Lecture in Wisconsin

Danny Wilson (Director) and Susan Moses (Producer) were invited guest lecturers at Fox Valley Lutheran High School in Appleton, Wisconsin http://www.fvlhs.org/ on Friday, October 10th. Moses and Wilson presented to the Digital Communications and Graphics Arts Classes on the process of film development, production and distribution. Their presentations included graphic arts slides and models of sets as examples of the relevance between these areas of study and the film process.



Several students gathered for personal one on one time with Mr. Wilson seen above and with Huyen Thi who also attended the day’s activities. Ms. Thi (seen in the forefront) is the female lead of the film Nephilim, currently prepping in Wisconsin. Students seen in the photo are Kolyssa Von Deylen, Michelle Flunker, Abbey Olsen, Kelsey Reidenbach, and Janae Chang.

Wilson and Moses have booked other lectures at University and College campuses throughout the state. For details please contact Bob Parker 920 857 9927.

Monday, October 6, 2008

Moses & Wilson To Tour Campuses

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Hollywood Producer/Director Team Bring Film Basics To Wisconsin Classrooms


(October 6, 2008 – Green Bay, Wisconsin) While many Wisconsinites are aware of the recent feature film Public Enemies staring Johnny Depp, perhaps some are not aware of why the State has suddenly become a location consideration for Hollywood production companies.

Thanks to a new tax break incentive for movies filming in Wisconsin, in addition to a screening deal with Marcus Theatres, the State is witnessing the birth of a new industry. Billions of dollars are invested in production each year by studio and independent productions. There is a sense of competition between states for a significant piece of the business and Wisconsin has aggressively worked to attract some of this industry into the state.

With Nephilim based in Green Bay, Susan Moses (Producer) and Danny Wilson (Director, Writer) are currently in pre-production for the $5.2 million sci-fantasy, action film, set to begin filming before the end of the year. Before Nephilim’s cameras roll Moses and Wilson will be visiting high schools and colleges in the State, hosting seminars and panel discussions to answer questions pertaining to what the tax break means to the State’s commerce, why Wisconsin is a viable option, and what opportunities there are for students to become involved.

Wilson states, “I know from first hand experience that enabling students to make a connection between classroom information and the practical world as early as possible provides a good environment for motivating them to learn. I created Nephilim based on the concept of a franchise which includes a complete comic book series, film trilogy, action figures and video game. There is huge potential for other spin offs which will naturally develop as certain characters achieve their followings.” Wilson has worked with a variety of seasoned and emerging artists to create the graphics and concept art. He is continually looking for new talent to add to his team.

Continuing their tour of campus visits will be a full day at Fox Valley Lutheran on Friday, October 10th were they will present film making from development to post production, writing, directing and producing as well as the business and graphic design elements to completing the process. Moses, a Fox Valley Lutheran alum, states, “Having taught actors, middle-school English and at a University film school, making the connection to students is something I appreciate and take seriously. There is an insatiable curiosity about film, which is a good hook for students to latch onto. Teaching students to plan, develop and execute their plans is a process they can apply to other mediums and industries beyond film. I look forward to working with students of all ages wherever time and circumstances permit me to do so.”

On Oct 27, they will visit the UW – Green Bay campus for a panel discussion, graphic novel signing and extras casting session. Joining Wilson and Moses at some of the campuses will be Art Director Cynthia Sweetland and lead actress Huyen Thi.

If you are interested in having this program visit your school or campus, please email:

nephilimthemovie@gmail.com
or
Call Bob Parker (920) 857-9927

http://nephilimthemovie.blogspot.com
www.nephilimthemovie.com
www.nephilimthecomic.com

Monday, September 29, 2008

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Film Green Bay Press Conference

Tuesday, September 30 – 2 p.m.

Location: K & K Warehouse, Sound Stage for Nephilim

201 South Pearl St., Downtown Green Bay

Speaking:

Introduction Brad Toll

President Greater Green Bay Convention & Visitors Bureau

Comments: - What is Film Green Bay

- Importance of industry growing locally –

economic impact

- Community involvement – sites & vendors

City of Green Bay Mayor Jim Schmidt (not confirmed)

Comments: - Local talent pool to support film projects

- We welcome the industry with open arms

Film Wisconsin, Inc. Jay Schillinger and/or Scott Robbe

Comments: - What Green Bay has to offer the film industry.

Movie Producer Susan Moses

Producer of “Nephilim”

Comments: - Why bring the film to Green Bay?


State of Wisconsin Lt. Governor Barbara Lawton

Comments: - Accolades for Green Bay being proactive in

seeking out the film industry, recognizing the

benefits and utilizing State legislation.

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Spreading The News ......

In Movies Briefs
Wisconsin preps for new "Nephilim" film
Director Danny Wilson's brings his crew to Wisconsin this September to film "Nephilim," a sci-fi thriller based on his comic bok series.
By Julie Lawrence RSS Feed
OnMilwaukee.com Staff Writer

E-mail author | Author bio
More articles by Julie Lawrence

Published July 21, 2008 at 11:02 a.m.
Tags: nephilim, danny wilson, film tax incentives, film wisconsin, public enemies, pulse studios

If you notice Nephilim giants, purple robed gargantuans and a litany of interesting characters looming about the state this September, that just means the system works.

Thanks to Wisconsin's newly implemented film tax incentives -- which helped bring Johnny Depp and the "Public Enemies" crew here for filming earlier this year -- creator / director Danny Wilson chose to work with the Green Bay-based Pulse Studios for his 2009 sci-fi action thriller "Nephilim."

Wilson and producer Susan Moses, a Wisconsin native, had been scouring Eastern Europe for the perfect film location and had settled on Bulgaria before the US dollar fell and costs rose.

Seeking other options, they flew into Green Bay and Milwaukee with director of photography Bern Heinl, who was the cinematographer on 2003's Wisconsin-shot "Milwaukee, Minnesota," and decided that the "beautiful old structures and wonderful river system" supported the film's look, says Heinl.

The team is opening its production offices in Green Bay this week and hopes to start filming by September.

According to Wilson, "Nephilim" is part of a trilogy and began as a comic book series he created before graduating from film school. The film will utilize local crews, talent and the state's film and production infrastructure.

Friday, August 15, 2008

Sunday, August 10, 2008

Nephilim's Angel Gabriel in China




Those Angels do get around ...... next stop - Milwaukee!

Saturday, August 9, 2008

Nephilim DP Arrives in Green Bay


Bernd Heinl returned to Wisconsin on Friday to prepare for his 2nd film in neighborhoods which are very familiar to him. He was the DP on Milwaukee Minnesota which was done in 2003 with director Allan Mindel. Today he is walking new locations for the action film Nephilim.

Heinl began his long career behind the camera in Munich Germany where he some of his early credits include The Outsider and Maiden’s War. Although he keeps a residence in Santa Monica, CA, Bernd Heinl has traveled the world with producers and directors working on features and television shows.

Nephilim is the 3rd film Heinl will be doing with Producer, Susan Moses, and the 1st with director, Danny Wilson. The trio have considered dozens of locations and have spent months working on storyboards, production planning and location scouting.

As Heinl stepped off the plane in Green Bay, he said, “Now we are counting down the days until the cameras role.” Don’t be surprised to see Mr. Heinl standing across from a tall building or in a park studying the sun and shadows as he makes his final notes for lighting and camera angles.

Friday, August 8, 2008


While Danny Wilson spent 4 days in LA this week meeting with the LA cast, (David Charvet, Danny Nucci, Hayley Marie Norman, John Savage, Noah Blake, G Anthony Joseph and Ryan “Rhino” Michaels), costume designer (Swinda Reichelt) , CGI/VFX company “Pixomondo”, SFX and Make up Department Head (Danielle Saunders and DRAC Studios), DP (Bernd Heinl) and Producer (Susan Moses) things moved ahead all full speed at the base camp production office in Green Bay.

All departments are currently hiring.

Local casting will begin within a week.

Locations are being locked.

Sets are being developed and prepped.

Stunt Coordinator, Gary Morgan and Fight Choreographer, James Lew are planning to audition stunt team members within a few weeks.

Comic book fans have saved August 22nd for the Nephilim Comic Book and Movie promotional party in Green Bay and the phones are ringing off the hook with inquiries and information requests.

Who said that Wisconsin only produces cheese? Mid-west movie magic is happening every day.

Saturday, August 2, 2008

The Director’s Journey From Home Movies to Multi-Million Dollar Budget


Filmmakers share many things in common, but none more so than the passion for bringing their stories to the screen. Danny Wilson discovered his passion when he was given the assignment to write a daily journal in middle school. For him the tedium of what could have been another boring task transcended into a foundation for storytelling.

In high school, armed with a consumer video camera, his obsession turned to the capturing of family vacations and poignant moments with his friends. In due course, he was directing short scenes with his school mates who were often unwittingly cast in the roles he created. Writing, filming and directing provided eventually moved him to editing of necessity. Within a few years his home movies and shorts became more elaborate incorporating clever camera tricks and homegrown special effects. His friends and family tagged him “Dawson” after the aspiring director character in Dawson’s Creek.

His love for reading short stories and novels inspired his fantasies and his early characters. For Danny, there was not enough time in the day to satisfy his appetite for books. Conversely, and to his parent’s horror, he made no secret of his complete distaste for math. He was frequently busted for using math class as his time to read science fiction/action adventure novels. He accomplished this by placing his novel within the math book. Unfortunately that ploy only worked for a short time. When called on to participate in the class discussion, he rarely knew the question and was clueless about the answer. More books than he can recall were tossed into the large pile which also included confiscated remote controls, watches and rubber bouncy balls behind the teacher’s desk.

After losing a myriad of books, he decided to try another approach. He was a student at a Catholic High School and thought the last thing they would take away from him was a Bible. He had already discovered how many films and novels where based on biblical characters and narrative. His instincts were correct, and for the balance of his high school years not one Bible was snatched from him by a math teacher. The book of Revelation became the foundation for his vision of the Nephilim trilogy.

He could not think about anything other than developing short stories, and characters, to construct his interpretation of the weird universe he imagined as a result of his biblical inspiration. Eventually, he made his decision to dedicate every waking minute to not only telling this story all the way through but to do so in the medium of film. Thus began the long journey to directing Nephilim.

His first challenge became raising money to produce his “test” film, Darkest Days. Under the guidance of his father and other family members, he completed a crash course on funding an LLC, pitching investors and writing a business plan. He disappeared from the outside world for three months while he finished creating the documents he needed to raise the money. Another challenge was the time frame he had to shoot the film. He planned to shoot in Virginia, but state showed little faith in his shooting schedule and ability to complete the project within the state’s guidelines. He heard the word “impossible” from them so often he considered changing the title of the film. Key crew turned him down, cast declined to work on the film, and no one seemed to share his vision and level of passion for the project. After hundreds of rejections and hearing “impossible”, his solution was to train the cast on the equipment before he rolled camera. When they were not on the screen, they worked as crew. Any job an actor could not do, Wilson did himself. He was DP, Audio, Director, Producer, Writer, and Editor on the film. Many nights provided him less than two hours of sleep, but he was determined to not succumb to the word “impossible”.

In addition to performing multiple roles on the production, he also found it necessary to improvise his equipment. He took a trip to a local hardware supply store, with crude drawings, and within a short time he and his younger brother were welding parts for a dolly, crane, steady cam, and tracks. He also improvised the filming of scenes with camera special angles. He wanted shoot a scene through a car windshield but had no way to rig the camera. Finally, necessity was the mother of invention. Using rock climber’s gear, he strapped himself to the front of the car. On a freezing cold Virginia day, he got the impossible shots. This is not recommended for anyone else by Wilson.

After completing Darkest Days, his decision to create a trilogy was an easy one because the story he had in his head naturally played out in three parts.

Wilson completed Darkest Days and set out to enter festivals in search of distribution. Winning prizes at festivals proved to be much easier than capturing the attention of legitimate distributors. Darkest Days has not made many major sales, and the film is still in the red, but for Wilson the process proved to be a solid foundation for the Nephilim trilogy.

After nearly three years of working with producer, Susan Moses, the project has grown from notes and conversations to fully developed franchise project which has attracted award winning Hollywood talent, Warner Bros post production, high profile Special Effects, Visual Effects and CGI companies and dozens of extremely talented and experienced crew and production team members.

According to Wilson, “I can’t imagine doing anything else.” Filmmaking is his passion and his calling. He can live without a regular pay check, but could never live without the pressures, tension, challenges and rewards of making movies.

Prepare Yourself

Friday, August 1, 2008

Who Is Semyaza?

Austrian born ingénue, Ina-Alice Kopp, learned of Nephilim through her European agent. Her curiosity was peeked when she researched the story and characters on the film’s website where she learned that the producer and director were searching for the perfect, Semyaza.

Ina holds degrees in Economics & Sinology , is fluent in Chinese, is a classically trained pianist and avid equestrian. Hard work and research are familiar to her. After several days of scouring the Internet and making phones calls across the Atlantic she was convinced that if she could meet the director, he would see, what she knew in her soul, that she was the perfect Semyaza.

Through European connections to a manager in Los Angeles who was quite familiar with Nephilim Ina found a link to the project. The manager contacted the producer, to inquire about a possible meeting between Ina and the director. With the meeting arranged at a Beverly Hills bistro, Ina boarded a plane in Austria determined to convince everyone that she was right for the role.

Between the second cup of coffee and dessert, it was very clear to everyone that Ina’s hunch held great prospect. She made it through the 1st meeting and the director agreed to hear her audition the following day.

“I could see the passion in her eyes immediately. It was clear that she wanted the role. She had a great look, and excellent training. But what convinced me of her complete passion for the project and the role, was the extent of her research into the Nephilim, my background, the YouTube interviews about the project.”, according to Danny Wilson.

The polyglot did a screen test, demonstrated her athletic prowess and discussed her experience with hanging from wires in a stunt harness. Within a week of arriving in Los Angeles on her speculative venture, she had secured the role and an American manager.

After a short time in the US, and armed with Nephilim comic books, character breakdowns and notes from the director, she headed back to Austria, her television series and a previous commitment in another feature film. But she promised that her focus would not leave Nephilim or her preparations for the challenges of playing Semyaza.

Ina will return to the US on September 2nd, when she will join the rest of the cast for the beginning of an amazing adventure.

Ina-Alice Kopp is Semyaza.

Nephilim Composer Nominated for Israeli Oscar



The Israeli Oscar (Ophir)
is the prize given by the Israeli Academy of Motion Pictures to recognize excellence of professionals in the film industry.
This year, Misha Segal has been nominated for Best Score to Weekend in Tel-Aviv.

Thursday, July 31, 2008

Nucci Joins Nephilim Hero Team


Who could ever forget one of the most famous card games ever played on film which landed the handsome and sultry, Danny Nucci character, Fabrizio, a spot onboard Titanic? The ship sank, but that was not the case with Nucci’s dynamic career. He has worked with many of the most acclaimed directors on indie and studio pics including Tony Scott and Oliver Stone. The highly regarded and 5 time nominated actor will step into the role of Dante when the Nephilim cameras roll in September.

Director, Danny Wilson, confirmed that, “The addition of Mr. Nucci to the hero’s team will be an asset to the cast.” Wisconsin residents are sure to be on “Nucci” watch as the production moves around the state. Who knows, there may even be an official photo or autograph opportunity.

07-31-08 Notes From Jay Schillinger

Wow, it’s Thursday. I thought it was still Tuesday. The days (and nights) seem to be running together. The great news is, things are really coming together nicely. Locations are falling into place, crews are being assembled and, just as importantly, Danny told me that our entire (LA) cast has been locked down. Good news for sure! The exciting thing – for me at least – is that we will definitely need to cast/fill many roles locally. These range from some very juicy roles to extras. We’re certainly going to see Wisconsin’s best and most talented actors in this film.

A funny story – which Susan actually mentions on your blog – is the fact that while Susan and I were talking – Susan in LA and me in Wisconsin – there was an earthquake (in LA). I shouted to everyone we were with, “Hey, LA’s having an earthquake – Susan’s going through it right now!” I don’t think some people believedme. However, after we hung up (and Susan reassuring me she was alright), all the TV’s broke to the quake footage. For the record, there’s about a 3 ½ minute lapse between when an earthquake actually happens and Fox News reports on it. Not bad. Luckily, it didn’t do much damage and we’re still on track!

We’re beginning to line up local press coverage so everyone in Wisconsin – if they don’t know about Nephilim yet – will for sure in the next couple days!

Jay


"Days of Our Lives" cast member Yuval David (www. YuvalDavid. Com) has joined the cast of Nephilim in the role of Angel Gabriel. On Days, he plays the quirky Frenchman, George, the love interest of Melanie. Yuval can also be seen broadcasting behind the scenes quirky moments from the Beijing Olympics.

He is fluent in several languages, a dialect master, martial arts practitioner, and down right cute as can be.

In addition to turning heads when he enters the room, his personality is infectious and engaging.

Seeking The Best of Wisconsin Parkour

Do you Parkour? Parkour (sometimes abbreviated to PK) or l'art du déplacement (the art of displacement) is an activity with the aim of moving from one point to another as efficiently and quickly as possible, using principally the abilities of the human body. It is meant to help one overcome obstacles, which can be anything in the surrounding environment—from branches and rocks to rails and concrete walls—Parkour practitioners are referred to as traceurs, or traceuses for females.

We are open for submissions from the best of Wisconsin Parkour's

Male Age 18+ but can look 16 - BLUE eyes, slender but strong build

Male Age 30+ BLUE eyes, slender but strong build

Please submit your VIDEO audition to:

Pulse Studios
211 N Broadway
Green Bay, Wisconsin 54303
ATTENTION - Nephilim Parkour

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Not Even An Earthquake Can Stop Us


As I ran down the agenda for the conference call from my LA office to the Pulse team prepping the film, Jay Schillinger and I were discussion various camera package options,

Stunt rigging gear and crewing up with Wisconsin hires, I stopped mid-sentence because everything around me was shaking violently.

Jay asked, “Are you there. Susan, is everything ……” I responded, “Earthquake, we are having an earthquake.” He passed the news to everyone in the room. And I said, “It’s still going, the darn thing is still shaking. “ It seemed to go on for an inordinate amount of time.

I have been through many quakes. Usually they last for a few seconds. A jolt or a few hard rocks, but today’s quake was long and rolling waves. However, we had work to do, so I returned to the phone call and the business of making decisions about the best way to create a fantastic film.

Undaunted by the quake, we carry on, looking forward to working with so many talented and incredible people who share a common passion and vision for movies.

Susan Moses, Producer

7-28-08 Notes From Jay Schillinger

Monday, July 28th: The morning began with some good news. Over the weekend our director (Danny Wilson), UPM (Michelle Hammond) and Crew member Peyton Myrick (who might just be the funniest man I know) found a very important location for our movie – a night club. In the script it’s called The Black Dove. And it’s important because we shoot there for almost an entire week. Well, these poor three had to hit all the Green Bay bars over the weekend to find just the right one. Apparently, once Danny set foot in this top secret location (in downtown Green Bay), he knew it was the one. And the owner (I’ll get his name shortly) was more than amenable. Which is great! And we’ll also be using an apartment right above for another scene! The rest of day consisted of setting up our production offices (fax machines, copiers, phone lines, etc.) and meetings. I’m off tomorrow to scout out a few more locations. You can almost feel the energy rising daily, can’t you? Oh, one more thing. It’s really great to see all the people coming into Pulse (daily) to sign on for extras and/or crew members. Not that I’m surprised – as I knew the city would embrace this film – it’s just great to see. Until tomorrow…

Monday, July 28, 2008

Hiring Local Crew & Cast

We are in the process of completing our Wisconsin crew hires and it is our goal to bring on as many local hires as possible. All interested crew can email a resume to: Jay Schillinger c/o
jays@pulsedms.com

For cast and other crew information, check us out on www.imdb.com

Day player and extra casting will begin very soon. Please check our Blog often for updates and casting director information.

Saturday, July 26, 2008

Nephilim Villians At Rare Gathering in Hollywood


The main villains gathered at the internationally famous Flavor Of India restaurant in Hollywood for a pre-filming meeting with the director, Danny Wilson and producer, Susan Moses. The cast took away notes and character secrets not revealed in the script in preparation of filming in September.

Seen in the photo are, Noah Blake (James), “G” Anthony Joseph (Senator Harden), Gulshan Grover (Azazel, Ryan “Rhino” Michaels (Beshwa) and Ina-Alice Kopp (Semyaza). Mr. Grover flew from his film set in South Africa to join the LA meetings and Miss Kopp took time away from her European television series to meet with her fellow cast members before departing for Iceland where she will be filming until she returns to the United States in early September.

Friday, July 25, 2008

7-25-08 Notes From Jay Schillinger

46 days until camera are rolling. Seems like a long time; but I'm coveting each one of them as we're still in the process of securing locations, locking down crew and equipment, and most importantly, budgeting. I love every minute of it!

As word of Nephilim spreads, people are contacting us from all over the country to help out. It's great to see the enthusiasm people have for films. And Nephilim isn't going to disappoint. Personally, I can't wait to see Danny's vision come to life! That's it for this Friday from Green Bay,
Wisconsin. Have a great weekend.

Thursday, July 24, 2008

Let The Music Be Heard All 'Round The World


World renowned and acclaimed composure, Mesha Segal has signed on to compose the musical score for Nephilim. Born in Haifa, Israel, weaned on jazz (thanks to his father, a boxing referee and jazz enthusiast, friend of Louis Armstrong), and raised in Tel Aviv, music called Misha from an early age. Yet, it wasn't until after his compulsory military service that he got his first piano and the opportunity to pursue music in earnest.

After studying music with Israel's foremost composers—Paul Ben-Haim, Noam Sherrif and Isaac Sadai—as well as film and philosophy at Tel Aviv University, Misha apprenticed under 20th century master composer Dieter Schöhnbach in Germany; studied composition and conducting at the Guildhall School of music in London; then graduated from the Berklee College of Music in Boston.


Starting out, Misha was especially influenced by jazz, Elton John and The Beatles. His interpretation and application of these and other western music influences to the Israeli cultural scene—as arranger, composer, songwriter, producer and recording artist—was vital in the redefinition of popular, theatre and film music, garnering numerous #1 hits. Furthermore, his classically-styled compositions were performed by the Israel Philharmonic and the Israel Chamber Ensemble. All this occurred over a very short 5 years, yet the impact was so great, Misha is considered one of the leading figures in Israeli culture today. He continues to do projects in Israel, working with new and established artists as well as in theatre.


Misha also enjoyed a successful career in New York, writing, arranging, orchestrating and producing for such artists as Luther Vandross, Maynard Ferguson, Phyllis Hyman and Dave Grusin.


Upon moving to Los Angeles, he signed with Motown as a composer/songwriter, writing for their artists and scoring Berry Gordy's The Last Dragon .


Misha has created, composed and conducted scores in many different styles for a variety of feature films including The Phantom of the Opera, which received wide critical acclaim for its originality and scope as well as the all time favorite kids' movie, The New Adventures of Pippi Longstocking. Also to his credit are numerous works for the small screen, which earned him an Emmy award and an Emmy nomination. His work with up-and-coming film directors has encompassed everything from short films (Paul Ratner's King and Angel in the Rain featuring music available on Misha's Female CD) to the feature-length Un Secreto de Esperanza, Mexican diva Katy Jurado's last movie.


As a recording artist, Misha's first CD, Zambooka, was endorsed by Quincy Jones and Bob James and featured legendary artists Chick Corea and Freddy Hubbard. His next CD, Connected to the Unexpected, was picked up by over 200 college stations and enjoyed heavy rotation on the top NAC stations across the country. Don't Say It's Over, produced and co-written by Misha, features vocalist Randy Crawford. This CD spent three weeks at No. 1 on the NAC charts.

His latest solo release, the Red, White & Blue 'Female' CD package, is a 3-CD piano collection of mostly improvised original music and cherished, familiar love songs. The style is described by fans as a cross between Chopin's Nocturnes and a laid back Keith Jarrett. Female is the core of Misha's Beauty Found in Unlikely Places concert series. The concerts and the music were inspired by his mother, a woman with an unbreakable spirit who died after a 6-year battle with lung cancer on Mother's Day 2001. Through these concerts, associated media interviews and Public Service Announcements, he forwards his mission of educating the public on lung cancer awareness issues and raising the quality of life of those fighting the biggest battle of theirs.

When Misha isn't making music, he's listening to it while cooking up a storm and sampling fine wines from around the world. He also enjoys flying single engine planes.

7-24-08 Notes from Jay Schillinger


Thursday, July 24, 2008: Well today was just another “normal” day in the life of pre-production. “Normal” being the operative word. But in the crazy world that is film production, normal is a good word. Today, we signed our line-producer. A big step. And even bigger since he’s a Green Bay resident. Thad Roentiz. Like me, Thad lived in LA for many years but returned home to be closer to his roots and family. Thad’s a good guy and we’re all looking forward to working with him on Nephilim. Yesterday, Danny Wilson (the director), Michelle Hammond (the UPM) and I drove to Milwaukee to secure a couple locations as well as hire our Set Designer – David Krummel. David just finished working on the Johnny Depp movie “Public Enemies.” He’s a real pro and like Thad, a Wisconsin resident. Welcome aboard David! So all is moving along nicely as the pieces are falling in place as they should.

Here’s hoping tomorrow is just another “normal” day…


Jay Schillinger

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

Nephilim Casts International Star As Father Markus

Hunky, David Charvet, who rose to international fame on the hit shows "Baywatch" and "Melrose Place," has joined the cast of Nephilim in the leading role of Father Markus.

Charvet launched his acting career on the world's most watched show of its time, "Baywatch," in which he developed a strong international following playing lifeguard 'Matt Brody' for three seasons. He continued to expand his fan base with his role of 'Craig Field' for two seasons on "Melrose Place." He also starred in NBC's highly-rated telefilm "Seduced and Betrayed" and the ABC movies-of-the week "Derby" and "Angel Flight Down." He also starred in the independent feature "Meet Prince Charming," with Drea de Matteo.

As a Universal Music recording artist, Charvet spent five years in Europe, where he released three successful pop rock albums, as part of his five album deal with Universal Music Group France. He has sold over 2.5 million albums to date, with three of his singles ("Leap of Faith," "Should I Leave" and "The Tears in My Eyes") charting in the Top 10.

Charvet has traveled extensively throughout Europe and Asia, performing for packed arenas, writing music and experiencing new cultures. He has collaborated with top songwriters such as Ty Lacy (who wrote Leanne Rimes' single "I Need You"), and he has also worked with Robbie Williams' producer Steve Power. Charvet has recorded a duet with Bryan Adams, and he also worked on a duet with Seal.

Although his music career has taken center stage in recent years, Charvet has always sought new creative challenges. He has now returned to the United States where he is happy to be back to his first love of acting. "Music has helped me to evolve tremendously as an artist and has enriched me personally in so many ways," he offers. "I left America a boy and have come back a man."

Tuesday, July 22, 2008

Huyen Thi Returns To Fight Again


The petite, Vietnamese, action star, Huyen Thi will again step into the role of Sue Lynn when the Nephilim cameras role in September. Huyen played the character in the Nephilim prequel, Darkest Days. Her power resolve and determination to bring the strong female role to the screen convinced the director that she would be the perfect choice for the entire Nephilim trilogy.

Huyen was been working on martial arts training and character development in preparation of returning to the role. She will arrive in Green Bay in late July to continue her preparations on location and to work on weapons handling and fight scene choreography.

“I am looking forward to working with all of the amazing actors who are playing key roles in the film. In particular, I am excited to work with Mr. Grover who has over 400 films to his credit. He has a wonderful sense of humor and great work ethic.”

World Famous Bollywood Star Cast In Nephilim


Hollywood and international actors are preparing for filming in Wisconsin.

He may have lost the challenge to play the villain to James Bond in Casino Royale, but Bollywood's ace villain Gulshan Grover never gave up. Gulshan's character is the leading villain Azazel.

"I was zapped when they approached me. But when I met them in LA and after they explained the concept to me, I was game for it," says Gulshan, during a recent pre-production trip to Los Angeles.

Keeping in mind Gulshan' s physical features , various artists worked on the artwork for the comic to create the powerful Azazel. Susan Moses, Producer said "We decided to cast Gulshan because he has a universal demographic appeal. We wanted to introduce a powerful Indian character and he was the best choice. He's also a known name in the Western market."

Monday, July 21, 2008

Prepare For the Battles



Father Markus



Sue Lynn In Action

Lights, Action, Camera - Ready to Roll

Wisconsin Captures Nephilim – State Prepares”

(Green Bay, WI – 4 July, 2008) Wisconsin residents should prepare to see Nephilim giants, purple robed Generals and numerous other strange beings at summer’s end. By early September movie cameras will roll and the sci-fi, action thriller, Nephilim, based on the original comic book series, will begin filming in various locations around the State. Last year, Los Angeles based film producer and former Appleton, Wisconsin native, Susan Moses, traveled with creator/director Danny Wilson to multiple locations in Eastern Europe to scout for the perfect locations and best production values. They were ready to commit to filming in Bulgaria before the US dollar fell to all time lows against the Euro and rising air travel costs added to the production’s bottom line. The pair met with various location managers and film commissioners at the Locations Expo in Los Angeles last spring and realized that with individual US state subsidies in place, films can realize substantial savings if shot under the auspice of local production services companies who are able to tap into the local, talented crew bases.

After learning from the representatives from Wisconsin, who attended the Locations Expo, that Nephilim was exploring options, Jay Schillinger, President of Pulse Studios in Green Bay, WI found the film’s website and contacted the team to discuss Wisconsin as an alternative. According to Schillinger, “I knew it was a long shot opportunity for Wisconsin, but I also knew that if my company and others would step up to support the film, we could realistically compete for the business.” After months of budgeting reviews and location scouting photo exchanges, Danny Wilson, Susan Moses and the DP, Bernd Heinl flew into Green Bay and Milwaukee to personally explore Wisconsin’s ability to capture the film’s business. Within a week of being introduced to various government officials, prospective location owners and Scott Robb of the Film Wisconsin office, Schillinger was able to convince the team and the deal was closed. Wilson, Moses and Heinl will open up their production offices by late July to complete the pre-production activities. Filming will begin in early September.

Having grown up in Wisconsin Moses knew that the state had been settled by German, Polish and Flemish populations which meant that there would be practical locations similar to the Bulgarian architecture scouted for the film last year. For the DP, Bernd Heinl, Wisconsin was also not an unfamiliar location. Heinl was the cinematographer on Milwaukee Minnesota shot in Wisconsin in 2003. Heinl was eager to confirm Wisconsin as a viable alternative to Bulgaria, “I knew that Milwaukee had many beautiful older structures, a wonderful river system and numerous other locations to support the film’s look,” Heinl told Scott Robb during the recent location scout.

Finding the perfect locations and infrastructure were tasks requiring specific research and deep digging. Nephilim is the brain child of creator Danny Wilson who began working on the film which is a part of a trilogy and an original comic book series before he graduated from film school. Wilson told the Pulse research team, “The characters, color schemes, various locations and story line have all been established within the 1st twelve issues of the comic book. I have to be true to the comics so that I do not disappoint the loyal fans.” Wilson has been spending time between his North Carolina home and Los Angeles for over two years while he and Ms. Moses have readied the project for production.

Unlike large studio films, Nephilim will rely heavily on local crews, talent and the state’s film and production infrastructure. Cameras, lighting and electrical equipment will be rented locally in addition to other goods and service purchases which will infuse fresh capital into the local economies.

The film’s lead and supporting actors are from Los Angeles, Italy, Austria, Viet Nam, Israel, Trinidad, India, and the UK; however, many important speaking roles and hundreds of day players and extras will be hired from the rich pool of local talent.

For additional information please contact:

Jay Schillinger, President Pulse Studios

jays@pulsedms.com