SUNDANCE OR DIE
How does a tow truck driver get Martin Sheen, John Mellencamp and Louise Fletcher to agree to do a film he hopes will screen at Sundance Film Festival? You’ll be amazed at what a man who believes in the saying “he who can take the most pain wins” will do to get to make his film.
- Pure kahoonies my friend, pure kahoonies!!
In this episode Chris Nakis owner of a successful auto repair and AAA tow service explains how he gave his business (yes, he gave it) to his brother to raise 1.3 million dollars for his best friend Robert Manganelli’s film. At the time of this episode Chris has already signed a contract with Martin Sheen, raised $300,000 and kicks off a unique fundraising idea he got after a visit from a Jehovah Witness.
In this episode the gang seems to be right on the edge of signing a big name actor. Hollywood producers want to make this a 3.5 million dollar picture and are working on Willem Dafoe, Steven Baldwin, Tim Roth or Benicio del Toro. Chris wants them to put up or shut up.
In this episode Chris is full steam ahead on the streets trying to find 10,000 people to fund his film. We know they ultimately make this film but is this really how he did it? Watch this episode and keep watching this filmmaker’s journey to Sundance. Sign up for our newsletter to stay informed of bonus clips and filmmaker tips!
In this episode co-producer John Cocca assures us that this film is absolutely shoot- ready. Martin Sheen has his wardrobe. Louise Fletcher has been fitted for her prosthesis. Bob has even chosen camera angles and lenses for each of his locations. The big question is: do they have the entire 1.3 million?
In this episode it seems Chris is having doubts and may have lost over $100,000. Just as some are worried he might be ready to throw in the towel they get a call from a Hollywood agent asking if they would consider John Mellencamp in the main role.
In this episode Chris is not convinced that “Mellencamp” is a done deal. So, he drives to New York City for a film screening that the William Morris Agency setup with a company called Unapix. The gang is close to having a big name for their lead actor but still need a significant amount of cash.
