R|com Creative Blog

My Academy Award-winning father (twice!) keeps telling me that we have to promote ourselves at every turn. For some, it’s easy. For me, not so easy. But, in this case, easier – as the film in question, Continuum: Against All Odds, is the work of my remarkable wife, Cameron.

The Going Green Film Festival saw fit to have its judges award our documentary on the University of Michigan’s solar racing team, best film in its category: transportation. Frankly, I thought we had a shot, while Cameron, nervous and talking a mile a minute thought no chance at all! It is sweet to hear the name of your film called out in a large auditorium as the winner of an award.

The students at Michigan deserve all the credit: their story made the film interesting. For us, this is now past history. We’re very honored, and at the same time, we’re busy moving forward with new projects. If you saw the film and liked it, please let us know. If you would like a copy, send us a note. If you want your own award-winning production, we’re open to proposals!

Cameron Barrett, James Kwok, and David Barrett on the magic carpet at the All Sports Los Angeles film Festival

When Cameron Barrett learned our documentary film, Continuum, Against All Odds, had been accepted into the All Sports Los Angeles Film Festival, she was so excited. There are a wide array of awards programs these days – so many that they may become all too common and lose their unique value. But, such is not the case with a film festival, and certainly not one that has a niche – in this case, sports.

Typically, we produce films as a team, and in many ways this one was no different. What was different was that Cameron had led her production team to Australia, on her own, and directed this show from start to finish. As such, it had her stamp, her storyline, and her blood and sweat all over it. So, to be accepted into any festival is a good feeling.

Showing up at such events is often overly “Hollywood” for me. I am not easily impressed with the glitter and so on. What made this festival so much fun was that it didn’t have any of that pretentious glitter to it – and it was in Hollywood! The event was held at the Raliegh Studios, next door to Paramount. We invited friends and peers, and it was just what you might expect at such an event – a combination of fun, dialog, and a bit of nervousness.

Our guests were terrific and very supportive. Cameron and I had never seen this particular film on the “big screen,” so it was fun to see it in a theater setting. And when the showing was complete, everyone was very kind, and they left. We took some of our team to dinner.

But we came back…

The evening was filled with other films to see – and Cameron really enjoyed a documentary about women’s six on six basketball, called Iowa Girls. It’s important to know that throughout this entire series of films and activities, Cameron never gave a moment’s thought to actually winning an award. It was enough to be in the competition.

So, when the awards were being handed out, she clapped and cheered for each additional trophy, but never showed any nerves or emotion related to Continuum. Finally, the last two awards were all that remained. Best short doc and best feature doc. Continuum made it into the short category, by perhaps one minute. And, as the award description was being read, Cameron was smiling and saying, “Iowa Girls. Iowa Girls.” I, on the other hand, was thinking of another film. Our film.

And so, when the words, “and the winner is… Continuum, Against All Odds,” were announced, I smiled. And, then, I laughed out loud, as Cameron’s amazed and perplexed expression peered at me with a look that defies description. “Go on! Get up there,” I said, laughing. So, it was fun. And I’m really proud of Cameron. And our Team. And everyone on the solar car team at the University of Michigan. Those guys and girls rock. Big time.

Alternative energy is becoming more of an issue in light of the overall over-the-cliff effect of the U.S. automobile industry. Some universities are working to create concepts related to solar power for a variety of things. While the technology in these cars will not likely replace engines in automobiles, they may take on a supporting role.

This production was created for up to six cameras, four en route, all in HD. Separate teams under the production direction of David Barrett worked to find the lead stories each day, during a 10-day across the US and Canada race. The project was edited using Final Cut Pro, under the supervision of Cameron Barrett. The animation was produced using AfterEffects, and the final project was mastered to HD-CAM for distribution on network and cable television.

The North American Auto Show in Detroit has been the most important automotive show in North America for many years. We enjoy shooting at this event, but it is changing, and I wonder if the show itself will evolve, or if other venues and cities will move to take center stage?

BMW prepared to unwrap the new X6 at the Detroit Auto Show in January of 2008.

For me, the throngs of media all taking the same pictures of the same vehicles on the same stands is fairly boring. I do enjoy interviewing auto execs, as they are often misunderstood and it’s a crazy job with unbelievable responsibilities. Getting to spend a few minutes with leaders in this industry is very appealing and informative.

What I really like, however, is watching how technology from our world integrates into a convention like this. This year, more than ever before, HD cameras were to be seen everywhere. And, not only HD, but hand-held HD, including consumer cameras of all makes and price ranges. One fellow actually walked the entire show wearing a “steadycam” style support vest, all for a 5 pound camera that was a fly compared to the 50 pound Betacams I used to lug about. In fact, of equal amazement to me are the number of people who are still lugging these monsters about. Not only is it silly, but the gear is, for the most part, antique and unable to compete with many of those 10 to 20 pound cameras…

It’s also fun to watch many of these “shooters” as they look for the right angle, fumbling about with their gear. Amateurs are everywhere, but mixed in, you’ll on occasion see someone that catches your eye – often a younger shooter, but with not only enthusiasm, but an EYE for the shot.

We’ll be in town longer this year than previously, as our client will also have us participate in meetings at their Detroit offices, but the show itself is really worth walking. Check out our video offerings from the show.

Part of our team is about to head to Australia to shoot a sports documentary for the University of Michigan. It will be a challenging project, crossing the entire country via the Stewart Highway, a desolate, dangerous and often two lane road that sees road trains (multiple trailers pulled by a single tractor-cab) hauling ass at all hours of the day and night.

Preparation for any shoot is key to having a successful outcome. In this case, there are additional variables to be concerned with. One of them is preparing the right clothes and bug repellent, as there is quite a bit of bug action down under! Cameron will pack and unpack multiple times, not because it’s fun, or even because she’s a woman (gulp!), but because she’s experienced with this type of work. Taking the time to resolve where gear goes, where clothes go, and how to keep weight below the airlines stipulated maximums (before penalties, meaning cash) is an essential part of the pre-production process.

And, when you’re going to be on location for several weeks, often without hotels or other common retailers about, the time spent is well worth it. Even after years of doing this, I continue to marvel at how much time is involved in this process.