Comments for the wild musings of a web celebrity

Comment on Producing a Web Series: Building a Show From Page 1 to Final Cut by Charball

Charball — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 06:14:48 +0000

So glad to hear you guys got picked up! I now have the Internets at my house, so I can actually watch your shtuff!

Comment on Producing a Web Series: Building a Show From Page 1 to Final Cut by Ashley

Ashley — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 21:20:32 +0000

So glad to see another post! (I was beginning to think that something terrible happened to my favorite independant writer/producer/acter person)! I’ll be looking forward to more episodes of Leap year (with more wonderful break a leg references). Would it be a bad time to ask for that giant Misfits poster that is behind Brynn’s desk with all of your autographs? (yes…I am a highly dedicated and slightly obsessed fan)

Comment on Brand Me, Baby by Eva Bodine

Eva Bodine — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 05:35:04 +0000

I get what you’re saying. I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately, and I’m somewhat on the fence. On a personal level, as a viewer/consumer, I long for Branding. I was watching something the other day, and thought how nice it is when you know what you’re gonna get: George Lucas, Dan Brown, Jim Carrey. I begin to anticipate enjoyment as soon as the name is said, or the logo crosses the screen. Branding, in a very real way, creates loyalty.

As an artist, I think the definition of “branding” is too small. We should be known for doing good work, that’s distinctly our own, regardless of genre, medium, or scale. I think that whatever I do, it will have my stamp on it: My humor, My sense of drama or irony. All I do is change the measurement of each — The ingredients stay the same.

I think, Branding is something that must be kept on a tight rein. Many a Writer/Director have found great success with a comedic project, only to find that no one will stomach a Drama from them. There’s a rumor that Ed O’Neil was cast in a serious film, after ‘Married with Children’ was cancelled, only to be cut after test audiences burst out laughing the moment he hit the screen. Once you are pigeon-holed, creative cancer has already crept in.

I think the trick is catching the public by surprise. Do something really, really well. Then do the opposite. They’ll learn to love your work, and never have the chance to sink into an entertainment complacency– And you win.

Comment on Things I Beg Web Series Creators To Please Do and/or Not Do by Charball

Charball — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 21:13:33 +0000

Broka, you know I love you. I just have to say that Break a Leg would have been ten times better if you had had more city montages. Yes, I have a reason!! Then I would have been able to see you guys AND the good ole City. If you shoot another series in San Francisco please consult me first so I can tell you where I want scenes shot. And exactly how to sequence the city montage so the show will best fit my viewing needs. I have just sent you a contract to retain my services as a consultant. You don’t need to read the salary part or anything, just sign and send back. But other than that, good points! I love to read your blog, you sharp and witty little man.

Comment on Length Really, Really Matters; And Other Suggestive Reasons Why the Web Show Should Be Longer by Giovanna

Giovanna — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 02:31:32 +0000

Well said, Sir!
From the perspective of someone who does a lot more watching than creating, it’s all about content. If I’m enjoying a show, I WANT it to be long. Especially comedy! People want to laugh. If you can make me laugh for an hour, then make it happen! I think it’s much easier for a writer to create a 5 minute video that is hilarious than to develop a 30-60 minute story that will continually surprise and entertain. Web writers should challenge themselves!
So, yes….give me something that will satisfy for longer than 7 minutes. Please.

Comment on Things I Beg Web Series Creators To Please Do and/or Not Do by Jenni Powell

Jenni Powell — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 19:02:27 +0000

You know what other two crewmembers are vital behind-the-scenes but aren’t often referenced when it comes to web series? Script supervisors and 1st ADs. The best shows I’ve seen online don’t skimp out for these positions.

Comment on Things I Beg Web Series Creators To Please Do and/or Not Do by Marilyn Anne Michaels

Marilyn Anne Michaels — Sun, 21 Aug 2011 21:08:17 +0000

Yuri: These were issues you saw in the “nominated” shows or did you judge all of the submissions to help come up with the nominated shows? It was never clear to me who decided upon the nominated series. Did you come on to judge after the nominations had already been set?

And yes, editors and sound peeps and writers so important, let’s give them our love!!

Comment on Things I Beg Web Series Creators To Please Do and/or Not Do by Tom Konkle

Tom Konkle — Sun, 21 Aug 2011 20:26:48 +0000

Good piece. I agree. Those usually drive me nuts

Comment on Things I Beg Web Series Creators To Please Do and/or Not Do by Brett Snelgrove

Brett Snelgrove — Sat, 20 Aug 2011 19:31:44 +0000

Great advice! Keep up the good work.

Comment on Things I Beg Web Series Creators To Please Do and/or Not Do by Joel Bryant

Joel Bryant — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 17:16:00 +0000

As always Yuri: Great points! All strong and relevant. Unfortunately I fear some people may think they’re subjective (“But what is good sound?” “But what is funny editing?”), but these should be written as law. Maybe adopted by the IAWTV. And the people who own the internet (there is such a group, right?).
Your blogs on web series are always a fantastic read!
…I just wish you’d finish your coffee and clean your car keys and wallet off your desk in your blog header…..