Tuesday, April 14th, 2009

Status Update 4.14.09

So, it really is true — when one is spending all day trying to write stories, updating a blog seems like the last thing you’d want to do.

Basically, I’m writing fiction instead of the blog right now. Which is good because that’s what the whole Purpose Thing shebang is about, but it makes this stop on the intertubes pretty quiet.

So, um, to all four of you that read this: I’m on Twitter. That’s the best place to see me (periodically) give status updates as to what the hell I am up to.

Anyway, the latest:

1. The TV Pilot my buddy Oren and I finished came out pretty decently given that it’s a new ballgame for me. Feedback has generally been quite positive. The problem is the concept – it’s not not very marketable (which we knew going in) so in the meantime I’m having some peeps I know through my last job check it out, and it’s served as a good awakening to the fact that I Like Writing Television. Who knew? After I finish the feature I’m working on I think I’m going to write a spec TV episode or two to have as samples, and the play may indeed trying to get work that way.

Riveting information, I know.

2. The Feature. It’s got a title, I haven’t gotten bored with the idea, and I’m refining the outline as we speak. Will have the detailed outline ready by end of day Saturday, and it should take about 12-14 days to write. Praying for end of April for first draft, but likely right thereafter.

It’s pretty dark, very indie, and the more I think about it the more it seems like something I should make. Not something that would sell (least not for much anyway). Only 5 main characters and the performances will make or break it. So in addition to the TV thang, I’m realizing I need to direct a feature. Even if it is for no money and doesn’t turn out so great, filmmaking was always the goal, it will continue to be the goal, and even sitting around writing all day – while essential to the overall process – will eventually feel like masturbation just on its own.

Wes Craven has become a touchstone in terms of Fuck Yeah This Is Doable-ness for me. Doesn’t hurt that he made one of my most favorite films of all time, but the guy didn’t even get really going until his late thirties. Dunno why, but I’m really feeling that big 3-4 I’m going to turn this year, and success later in life like Craven’s makes me feel alright.

3. New music is afoot (no, really!). Not L’orangerie Stank… originals. Several new songs written, one in the process of being recorded. I don’t know if I will call this project Uneasy Lies the Head – that names carries some baggage in my head since we could never get a live show going and whatnot – but whatever happens the older ULTH songs will be incorporated. And on Angelman’s previous advice (which was backed up by Trent Reznor no less) the plan is to add some new tunes to the previous selections available here and put an EP out on iTunes.

Why? Cause.

4. And lastly… the girlfriend and I have decided to go vegetarian. “Big fucking deal”, most of you are probably saying (or perhaps “Vegetarian’s for pussies; Vegan is where it’s at”). In any case, for us it was a pretty big decision — I’ve historically been a huge whore for bacon, steak, chicken, shrimp, etc. But, I have grown tired of the food hangover I now associate with meat products… and though I’m somewhat loathe to admit it (the denial mechanism that lets you enjoy meat products runs pretty deep), the animal cruelty aspect has been gnawing at me for a bit now.

So, this is Day Two of me as a Vegetarian. I’ve been craving a Salami sandwich from Larchmont Wine & Cheese all day (if you do eat meat, this is the best sandwich in Los Angeles). The craving sucks, but what are you gonna do. Gonna tame it with a little veggieburger action and a trip to Costco.

Which reminds me, the lady and I will also need to stop at the market. I need to pick up some Bacon Salt.