Somnium Productions: A Night of Short Films TAKE TWO

At 7:30pm, Kathleen Shin and Sean Jackson, founders of Somnium Productions, were introduced and welcomed nearly a full audience. Sean stated, “Just the fact that we are here with you all, another big crowd, after our first attempt... alot of people put alot of time and effort into the movies we are gonna see tonight; again we just have to see some of the best film-making, acting, creative community here in Las Vegas out there.” The premiere of these films on December 21st, “Take One” was rough around the edges with many technical difficulties. With the help of RAVE and their crew, Somnium Productions was able to turn it all around with a great showing the films deserved.

The first of the short film of the evening was "Cunning Linguist" A half baked bank robbery is attempted by a group of misfit numskulls, who instead find nothing but trouble at every turn. Filmed all around town, the crew got kicked out of Las Vegas Academy twice and even got permits to carry around and shoot replica guns. Director Mitch Ebert mentioned, “This means alot to me... started making the film two years ago.” In many aspects, the time and effort put in shined through in the writing, acting, and camera work, but it could have used more substance. While at first I found myself amused, I began to lose interest as character patterns began repeating themselves. [ Rating: C- ]

The story behind the next film, "Bubblegum & Broken Fingers" was inspired by and shot on location in Nelson, Nevada. Written and directed by Sean Jackson, with Danish as director of photography, the script, framing, and actor selection were all top notch. Humbly, Sean noted "Film-making is the most collaborative artist thing anyone can do, and I relied on the help of so many people..." Sean made several bold choices with Bubblegum, including German dialogue, a mute character, and closed the movie silent, backed only by nine solid minutes of John Lee Hooker and Johnny Cash. Although these radical decisions can make or break an entire project, this film just got better with each minute and wrapped up beautifully. Initially I was intrigued by the title, but now that I understand the meaning to "Bubblegum and Broken Fingers." I'm enthralled. [ Rating: A ]

Introducing the movie the majority of the audience came to see, Sean proudly announced, "Let me tell you... If you are at all easily offended, if you do not like racial jokes, if you are sensitive in any way, get out right now." "Sweet Ninja Brown" is about Leon Brown, who finally decides what he wants to be when he grows up, a black ninja. After a sweet montage, fitting back story, and hilarious circumstances of rival gangs, Leon quickly finds himself a wanted ninja. This film was a blend of modern day urban comedy and 70s kung-fu blacksplotation. Dynamic characters each perfectly fit their roll, deliver quick punchlines, all with great camera angles. All costumes, weapons, and props were all made from scratch and the choreography, completed by Steve 'Beef Brocolli' Chong , took eight months to complete. The dedication that went into Sweet Ninja Brown was clearly apparent, it reflected well on screen, and often had the viewers bursting in laughter. [ Rating: B+]

Be sure to keep an eye out for Somnium Productions, as they still continue to create films here in Las Vegas, and help expand the community's interest and industry in film-making. Sean Jackson is planning to follow up "Bubblegum and Broken Fingers" with a second act "Hand Job" (which was cast this week), and a third act "Exchange," hopefully ready to premiere by July 30th. I am also happy to report that on February 2nd, Sweet Ninja Brown won the "Award of Merit" at the Best Shorts Competition Film Festival in California. I certainly look forward to what Somnium Productions has to offer, because Take Two was a knockout!

Credits:

* "Cunning Linguist" (Written by Mitch Ebert & Chris “Danish” Andersen [Gorilla Suit Productions], Directed by Mitch Ebert)
* "Bubblegum & Broken Fingers" (Written and Directed by Sean Jackson)
* "Sweet Ninja Brown" (Written by Sean Jackson, Directed by Alberto Triana)

Originally published on Stardust Fallout 03 February 2011

A Celebration of Life: Benefit for Debbie Flores-Narvaez

Crown Nightclub in association with The Artisan and Shade Tree held a benefit Wednesday, January 26th to celebrate the life of slain Fantasy dancer Debbie Flores-Narvaez. This somber event was put together not only to remember Debbie, but to also raise awareness of domestic violence and raise money for her family and others affected by these types of violent crimes. Las Vegas came out in full force to honor one of their own dancers, showing their support by each dedicating a short performance for the benefit.
Donating their entire facility free of charge for this event, Crown tried to keep the mood positive with upbeat music and go-go dancers, while displaying pictures of Debbie on the big screens around the club. While family and friends socialized, pre-show entertainment included a artistic body painting, acrobatics dancers hanging from from the ceiling, dancers and ballerinas. At nearly 1:30am, a heartfelt message from Debbie’s sister was read aloud, amazed by the tremendous support and thanking everyone for their generosity.
The rest of the event was then packed with dance groups, singers, acrobatics, impersonators, musicians, and several Las Vegas show acts. [Serious Effect, Flying Dreams, Saleemah Knight, Airmis, Sideswipe, Crazy Horse, Thunder from Down Under, Matt Guerrero, Lorena & Ray John, Cassie & Sonya, Jenny Romas, Rene & Tessa, Vegas the Show, Heartbreakrz Krew, J.J. Villar, and her fellow cast of Fantasy] The amount of time and love that was put into so many acts truly shined through, only ruined by an often inappropriate MC.
Las Vegas, the performers and crew that make each night happen, those just like Debbie, united to make this benefit happen and remember a dear friend. Although brought out under unfortunate circumstances, it just goes to show how much one life can affect so many people, and how Las Vegas is more than the city of sin, but a family to so many.

If you would like to donate or learn more about those who made this benefit possible, please visit: http://www.debbiebenefit.com/index.html

Originally published on Stardust Fallout 10 February 2011