Thomas Smugala / Writer/Producer/Director
Internationally published, commercial photographer / director Thomas Smugala
has for several years produced creative photography and films for fashion,
music, celebrity and advertising clients. Thomas has also directed many
award winning short films and music videos. Being heavily influenced by
photographers like Joyce Tenneson, Richard Avedon and directors like the
Steven Spielberg, Thomas decided very early in his career to shoot all of
his projects with a fine-art approach. This has made it possible for him to
pursue his passions without limitations. Thomas has written, produced and
directed numerous films, music video's and television commercials in this
manner all proving to be very successful endeavors. He artistic vision and
approach to life will certainly be the catalyst for a great film.
James Schulte / Co-Writer / Producer
James has been writing various genres for about ten years from romance,
drama, sic-fi, horror, as well as mainstream adventure and action ideas.
Current projects include "Brew", a teen thriller being produced by Joe
Majestic and Dan Levin at Platform Entertainment, with Tobe Hooper directing
and Lions Gate handling domestic distribution. Production slated for Oct.
this project was announced at Cannes. Jim also has a second thriller with
Platform Entertainment, under option. "Captain Nemo's Island" a high budget
adventure story. James' help with script development will put a high rev
tune up on Apocalypse and the Beauty Queen.
Srikant Chellappa / Producer
Srikant is an independent contemporary filmmaker focusing on issues that
affect the human condition. He has written, directed and produced several
short films and a feature documentary, all of which have been in film
festivals. He recently wrapped up the feature documentary "Running against
Dick (2004)". The story backdrop is set with the candidates running against
Dick Gephardt in the Missouri 3rd congressional district. His prior film
The Players (2003) was the official selection at St. Louis International
Film Festival, Hollywood Underground Film Festival and the Dallas Asian Film
Festival. Srikant came to the US from New Delhi, India as a student to
pursue graduate studies at the age of 21 and decided to make it home.
Srikant studied Filmmaking at NYU and gained a graduate degree in Business
(MBA). His experience as producer and management consultant will surely help
our production.
Jon Fahey / Location Manager / Co-Producer
As a senior specialist at AG Edwards, Jon has obtained experience
negotiating deals and managing projects on a very large scale. His
attention to detail and his professionalism will prove to be vital in
acquiring our shoot locations. Working closely with the Missouri Film
Commission, Jon will put all his efforts into gaining the best possible
locations at the best price. Having to overcome a serious physical
disability Jon has proven to the world that a can do attitude can
accomplish any goal set before him. It is this type of commitment that is
very welcome to our production.
Jeff Barklage / Cinematographer
Jeff brings 25 years experience to the table
working his way up the crew ranks helped shape and build his decision
making process. Starting with a special effects company with motion-control
and animation cameras, he moved into the live-action arena on commercials,
music videos and motion pictures. Working as a gaffer for almost a decade
gave him the knowledge and ability to handle lighting in quick and creative
ways. Working with noted directors and cinematographers [John Sayles, Robert
Richardson, ASC, Richard Benjamin, David Watkins, ASC, BSC, Joel and Ethan
Coen, Roger Deakins, ASC, BSC, and others he formed his artistic and technical
knowledge and applies it to his shoots.
High-end, national TV spots include SuperBowl spots for both Bud-Light and
Budweiser, Oil of Olay, European Marlboro, McDonald's, Subway, Folgers, etc.
Motion pictures included THE NAKED MAN for Universal Pictures/October Films
produced and written by Ethan Coen of the Coen brothers. THE YEAR THAT
TREMBLED with Fred Willard, Henry Gibson and Martin Mull. Showtime's
ARTWORKS with Virgina Madsen and Rick Rossovich. Jeff just finished shooting
the action picture ULTIMATE FORCE for New Line in Croatia. Plus a half dozen
made-for TV telefilms and over 40 music videos. Awards include 3 EMMY's with
5 nominations, many TELLY's and ADDY's as well as awards from the Houston
Worldfest. Jeff is a member of the Society of Operating Cameramen as well as
the International Cinematographers Guild, Hollywood.
Jeff's reel is available on-line at his website: www.barklage.com
Kathryn Leep / Executive Producer
Kathryn brings over 20 years of management and business experience to the ABQ
project. She spent many years in banking, focusing on risk
management, auditing and budget management. Recently she has owned and
operated St. Louis' premier small, luxury bed and breakfast - The Fleur-de-Lys Mansion -
with astonishing results. Her frugalness and business acumen are
proving invaluable with regards to managing the budget and the business
of the film. This positively impacts the overall profitably of the film and the
return to the investors. Without her contributions to fundraising efforts and
cost management, ABQ would be longer in the making. She's sure to keep
us on the right path for success and headed in the direction of the next production
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