GIRL 214, the film project that I’ve been working on for the past, I can’t remember how many years, is no more.
That’s right! You heard me… Done! Over! At least in title…
Let me explain.
The project, my film project, is still on. However, Girl 214 will remain the working title, but will not be the official title upon release. You all will have to wait for that.
Why?
Because it’s not a Dallas story anymore. 214 is an area code for Dallas, Texas, and the story was being told from Tiffany’s, the story’s hero, and a resident of Dallas, perspective. However, Tiffany could have just as easily grown up in New Orleans. Granted, there are some elements of the story that will be compromised…a bit.
Why change it from a Dallas story to a New Orleans story?
Resources and support mainly.
Being that this is a self-funded, independent production with a grossly small budget, I need all the support that I can find.
Unfortunately, I just couldn’t make that happen in Dallas. I’d tried for years, but I just couldn’t do it. Through all my efforts, I couldn’t find a group or any organizations dedicated to pursuing or even facilitating the growth of moviemaking in Dallas.
For instance, on several occasions, I’d attempted to contact the local Film Commission, but I never received a response.
Possibly it was because I am too small and my production didn’t reach a level that was acceptable. Before requesting info, you had to let them know what your budget was. I was totally confused. There’s a tier to gather information? Who’s running the joint?
And the unfortunate part is that the resources are there to make any movie you could possibly imagine.
There are rental houses, stages, and a diverse landscape. There are homes worth millions in Highland Park and post-war homes still standing in Oak Cliff.
Everything except the culture. It’s such a shame.
On the contrary, here at home, I have a wealth of resources and unlimited support from family, friends, and associates.
New Orleans has had a thriving film industry for decades and has facilitated the production of many major studio and indie films. The infrastructure and production capabilities are all in place and are operating.
I’ve been busy ever since returning.
Rewriting my screenplay, working on music, updating gear, hunting for and securing locations, working with actors…
I’m more relaxed than ever before, and I’m seeing great things just over the horizon.
Creole Gaudet
