The making of NAKED DRAGON - (part 2)

I suppose these blogs become sort of a diary for those who write them- some use them for guest spots, but I am such a non-geek, I don't even know how to do a blog tour, let alone host one.

So for those of you who follow this, it's usually my ramblings, and God love ya for reading them.
But it's also a way for me to keep track of what is happening in my life, good and bad, and especially a great way to get things down as I am feeling them about making the leap from writing to film. And let me tell ya, it ain't no tiny step, it's pole-vaulting the Grand Canyon.

But I learned valuable lessons in making Capital Games. Trust. Trusting people and using people you can trust. Without naming names, in the first film, I learned that knowing nothing made me a target and victim of crime. Yes, crime, from people I trusted. Uh uh. Not gonna happen this time. I wasn't an SPD cop for nothing, I get it now.

It's all about contracts, and I have written in a few 'clauses' to stop the Crime element from running over me. But enough negative BS.

Here we go---- We start actual filming on Weds, yes, next Weds. I am directing. Me. Well, yes, it makes sense, I know the book, the characters, and believe me although directors are masters (some of the greats of the world) Still, it ain't rocket science. I may look like a dumb former cop, but I can do anything if I put my mind to it. It's about trust. About getting the actors who have scads more experience than I do to trust that I know what I am doing. And as far as the crew? I know a bit more this time than last, but still, when they start tech talk? I feel like Charlie Brown listening to his teacher, 'Waaa wahhh waaaa' and a blank stare comes over my face.

But my goal this time, is creativity. Ahhhhh, after 6 years of art school, and 20 years of writing over 100 novels, THAT I can do.

A friend who stopped by my place recently had a look at the headshots of my gorgeous stars. She of course, loved them, all stunningly beautiful men. But, she asked a question. "No women?"

Huh. I hadn't thought about it. But when the book was transformed into a screenplay, of course as you all know from Capital Games, scenes had to be cut, and budgets had to be met. So, hmmmm....where are the ladies??

Well, to be honest, my movies are for straight-bi women and gay men, so who cares? If you expect T&A watch something else, ANYTHING else, there is no shortage of nude women in movies and TV. They would stick tits in commercials if they could.

Yes, there will be a lady extra here or there in the background, but heck, Its cops!!! FBI MEN! (oh, and a female dispatcher, yes, me. had to cut corners somewhere.)

So here we have it. A cast of strikingly gorgeous men in uniform, and a love story between men. Am I ready to dive in? Yes and no. Yes! I want to do it, experience it, make my second film and see how much better it can be than my fist attempt. But am I intimidated to direct??

OY VEY!

I know whatever happens, this time? I have a loving, wonderful crew who will be there for me. Of course sleep is out. 6 day work weeks, long 12 plus hour days, don't expect me on the 'net too much. But buy my books! You, my lovelies, are funding these films, and if you want more of them, help me out. Buy one book. Heck, any little bit helps.

Will let you know how directing goes! Until then, stay safe, and stay tuned.