UPDATES: "Quest"

Loads of work whirring at lightning speed and its been quite a funky challenge. I spent the last 10 days renovating my new little Quest for Jackie Chan! office (back of mum's bakery) with loads of painting, cleaning, moving and building things to accommodate the ever growing film project paper work, props, and large wardrobe and collection of wigs.

The next few days I'll be decking it our with white boards, pin ups, signage and of course, doing the final cast call outs for one major acrobatic fight display that I've written into the film.

There's definitely growing interest amongst the film community and once I've locked down who's who, then I can start pairing them up working in different scenes of the movie project.

To add to the transmedia experience, those who are in on the bandwagon are encouraged to develop their own voice through blogging, photologging, vlogging and other social media components. Just simply being an actor or a camera operator is not enough. For those who think I need them and my call out for talent is exploitation, well, I guess they are not visionary enough to see the bigger picture; and so I won't be able to accommodate them.

My priority isn't meeting Jackie Chan (even though he is one of the most awesome person in the world), but to test my own will, push the boundaries and most importantly, seeking likeminded individuals and groups, that I will want to work with in future. So far, in my journeys, its been full of friggin' rocks, but I believe without them, I would of still been in my little snail shell, twiddling my thumbs and just doing whatever.

But at this moment in my life, juggling 3 jobs at once, waking up 8am and finishing at 3am (I feel like I'm going to die sometimes), I feel the drive, I feel the inner venture, I crave to watch, to be inspired by every little thing in life and bit by bit, discover other hidden talents that will join me on my journey of making as EPIC a no-budget production can ever be.

I must admit, I have been very short fused though. Less waffly, but yet less tolerant of waffly people. I've had a string of people who articulate on wanting to be an actor and/or filmmaker who keep saying they don't have the time. Or the classic, "I just want to make it" scenario. That is simply way too vague and does not amount to anything. Hence, I've been spending heaps of alone time and of course, there's work at ICE.

In the last two months, I've been so privileged to have worked with Yassin Alsalman (Aka "The Narcicyst") and multimedia visual arts extraordinare Sundus Abd Hadi. These two are such such great people with a powerful influence in what they think, say and do. There's this element of clarity and universality in the way they see the world and the transmedia ways their activist works have inspired others to see change in their very own life.

No its not a cult, I'm just describing these two. Its hard to explain when you meet people who have an extraordinary energy in them. Yassin's mindset is solid as concrete, and he embraces his own changes, whilst Sundus has a geniune lovely vibe about her; even to the point that I get a bit of worried that I can't reciprocate.

They are both leaving tomorrow. I'm sure going to miss them both. Which takes me to the end of my contract at ICE as an Urban Cultures Program Coordinator, into an Mobile Expressions Workshop Trainer, and then the week after, into my new role on board SBS's 1.7 mil TV series as a full-time associate producer attachment. Everything come in oddly good timing. I was beginning to wish to gain more experience on understanding how big legit budgets and funding works and wanted to set myself right straight after the "Quest" film project. At the end of the day, I can't live off no-budget productions and eventually want to get to a level that I can co-direct and act in my own TV series or feature film.

So when I do start my contract, weekdays will be working at the office on TV series while weekends will be scheduled for the "Quest" shoots. There's still much more to do. Initially I was going to cut up the feature with the footage that I've got, which would have worked out anyways. After an injection of ambition and boundary pushing, the "Quest" will be a wacko of a movie. If I'm haunted every night on it, it means something.

In the meantime, I'm still looking for people to join in to help the "Quest" out. My first shoot is the 4th of June, 2011 and shoots will be scheduled every weekend till August. I'm looking for 10 male martial arts/parkour/ acrobatics for a blast to the past 80s HK fight scene 16th/ 17th July, 2011 (TBC), shooting in Fairfield.

Signing out,

Maria Tran

PROGRESS: Quest for Jackie Chan!

Its been 18 months since the inception of the “Quest for Jackie Chan!” idea, and so much as happened ever since. I did have moments of creative blocks with the project, but I think it was fueled by my own overwhelmingness of the rapid change throughout.

The idea began as being very 2D; it was like an A to B linear journey, to meet Jackie Chan, not really understanding my own inners, the context and how far and wide this project reached.

I’ve sampled the topic from varying perspectives and I’ve finally reached to the peak that has allowed me to be organically creative. I don’t know if there’s such terms, but creativity and innovative thinking is what fuels this project.  Organic, in a sense, that I’m not straining as much to come up with the details of the movie, and everything that has been learnt and experienced is finally coming together.

I think I don’t want to make this movie for the sake of getting attention, to be cool and other ego and narcissistic means. I probably did, in the beginning, but now its transcended onto more of the craft of filmmaking and storytelling.

Life doesn’t get any easier from this moment though, it becomes an obsessional thought, everything I think of, or do relates to the craft. I have major troubles getting to sleep (often fantastic ideas hits just when I about to get to shut eye).

It has been exciting though, I got on board Adrian Castro who is a D.I.Y savvy filmmaker who knows about visual FX, graphics, stock motion and fight chorie to assist and kick my butt when I’m slacking off.

He’s been throwing me movie after movie and literally, sitting with me, and making sure I’m watching it like some sort of school kid.

I’m at the point of my project where I’m calling on a team people dedicated, innovative people to inject their collaborative minds on it. 

TREASURE: Quest for Jackie Chan Fan Sketch!

While working on 3 computers in succession (one on each state of mind), the "recreational" computer was trawling online and landed across this ever so cute Quest for Jackie Chan! dedication.

Sophia A. was one of the audience members of the "Maximum Choppage: Round 2" screening I did in Newcastle earlier this year. I recall driving for like 2 and a half hours north out of Sydney to launch and speak at this event, and always in great spirits that other youngies get inspired to take on the arts field, whether, filmmaking or acting.

At the end of the session, I gave away my last two Jackie Chan shirts I had in stock as well as some stick art. A few responded with their own art works that were sketched on the fly and I guess Ms little Sophia missed out - only to be discovered online.

All the best Sophia! and thank you for your kindness and founded digital piece of inspiration, that adds to the growth of the "Quest".

Intended title: For Maria Tran's Quest for Jackie Chan!

last night i went to the loft in town, and had another Inzine meeting about the current upcoming Inzine, and talked about the things i still have to submit for it. Which are a review on the best ninja game in the world (my opinion) "Red Ninja" and a drawing for a pirate and ninja spot the difference.


After the meeting, me and the other members went ahead watched a movie made by Maria Tran, who is currently doing a project to find and meet Jackie Chan. This picture included in this post is dedicated to her quest. It is a chibi of the legendary kung fu comedy actor himself, Jackie Chan!!


GOOD LUCK MARIA TRAN!! I hope you succeed in meeting jackie Chan.

by ~MangaArtist123

Fan Art / Digital Art / Drawings / Movies & TV

©2011 ~MangaArtist123

Inte

EPIC FAIL: Quest for Jackie Chan just doesn’t cut it for Australian Film Television & Radio School (AFTRS)

You know, Quest for Jackie Chan! seems to not cut it for any grants these days. I seriously have been trying and trying to maybe get this one accepted, somewhere, somehow, some funding bodies will get it. So I thought – initially. After either getting knockback from way too many funding orgs and being snubbed off time and time again. This time, even worse, I didn’t even cut it to the shortlist of 50 applications. I spoke to my colleagues and it means one of two things, the other shortlisted projects were also 2 years in the making or my project was some sort of elaborate lie, that I must of forged all the letters of supports, and photoshopped all the people I met around Australia and HK.

“Maybe the project looked too good to be true” another colleague comment.

“Or maybe I should have dumbed it down a bit and not be too fanciful with the multimedia elements. You know, play the I’m a poor ethnic card, make more cultural stories…like refugees and settlement in Australia…”

“Maria, you know how racist this country is. Why the heck would they want to do kung fu action of pay homage to another Asian, even if its Jackie Chan”.

“We can’t deduct that Australia’s most prestigious film school is an “exclusive” film club right? They are not racist?” I interjected.

“You tell me. Movies that make money are action and even the martial arts genre gets a mention. Dramas aren’t even on the list, yet AFTRS students seem to be churning out more and more kitchen sink wanky dramas every single year. I have yet to see the nation’s prestigious film school take a crack at a money making genre, a genre that on the level of politics, connects Australia more with Asia.”

I pondered about this further. Its true, Australian filmmakers most often can woo other Australian filmmakers with their over confident biographies.

“Joe Doe is an awarding winning film director whose directed numerous wanky film festivals such as “Battler in love”, “Kitchensink and wrist slashing dramas” and “I’m an Ethnic”. You’ll also meet Joe & Co. whoring around film networking functions shoving business cards in your face and claiming that they have some vague project in development. Joe is quite online media savvy, with a slick website, so-so serious monochromatic headshot and self made interviews of themselves on their journeys as an Australian film director.

Yes…the conversation drowned my mind out.

After all that back chat, and all that short term relieve it got me, it doesn’t change the fact that the “Quest for Jackie Chan!” will no longer waste more time in applying for film or art grants but to battle this one on a D.I.Y level and as “no budget” it can ever get.

Out of the midst of things, I’m far from alone. After breaking news to my near and dearest in the film world, it just hit me funds is no deterrent. My fellow colleagues such as Adrian Castro who is kicking my butt for feeling sorry for myself and Vanna Seang, who has all the latest film gizmos, film cranes , tracks dollies etc… in the world is ready to shoot at the get go. Down in Melbourne, I’ve got supporter Somchay P. who is a constant reminder of my quest and Craig Anderson, my long time film mentor who wants to play Sammo Hung! There are plenty more to name, but it takes until now to finally realise that everything is at my disposal. I have a team of extraordinary people who believe in my vision and what I stand for and all I have to do is say when.

So whats happening now? The quest is emerging at the forefront of my mind. I’m taking out all the notes I’ve taken so far to recollect what I envisioned the “Quest” to be about. It is about me, and my journey (as well as a shared journey) in meeting Jackie Chan. I’m not sure how to describe the outcome I have in my mind, but I know it will be wack as and unexpected, especially if you know how my mind operates.

Internet R.I.P: Jackie Chan

I was spewing when I heard a rumour that beloved Jackie had passed away from a heart attack. A part of me was the failure to learn as much as possible from this notorious icon before the anticipated meeting (when I finish most of the "Quest" film) and to even think of such thing, was unimaginable.

I recall thinking about that earlier in the project. Someone brought up the "What if" scenario. I replied with "as if". As if Jackie Chan would die. He's done bla films, broken bla bones and looks exactly like my dad. How often do you think about your father dead? Never! It would never cross my mind, as most of the time, the people who are closest to you, are always immortal in your mind. You never think about and you take them for granted. That's the same thing with Jackie. After my trip to HK and chatting with some of his closest colleagues, I came to discover more depth about people's varying perceptions.

People just don't realise how hard this guy has worked his whole life. I recall doing a guest lecture at the University of Hong Kong and to my discoveries, finding out all the negative connotations the "Jackie Chan brand" elicits amongst the young people.

"He's too old!", "He's done this, he's done that", "Do you really know what he's like?"

Personally I don't, nor do I care about the finer details but I'm just inspired by what "Quest for Jackie Chan!" can create, which is the old school connection with the new wave filmmakers and storytellers.

Anyhow, false alarm everyone, Jackie Chan is still alive and well and still making movies. Let that be a lesson to everyone and all those people who are so easily swayed by what's in the media. Unless you can top Jackie Chan, in the meantime, sit down and shut up.

Love y'all

oxoxo

20th March, 2011 - TEST FIGHT - Maria Tran & Natalie Tran

Another D.I.Y dodgy looking fight sequence as provided by me. This weekend I got the chance to do some fight chorie with a newbie - Natalie Tran. I feel her pain and teen angst as she shares her name with THE NATALIE TRAN Ms Community Channel. But hey, won't it be fun to hypothetically, one day, have a fight sequence with with my fan adored long lost sister?

I'm still on the "Quest for Jackie Chan!" and in the meantime, time to get inspired and into "action" with a quick clip.

Camera operator: Quan Tran

Editor: Maria Tran

Choreography by: Maria Tran

Actor: Maria Tran & Natalie Tran

Equipment: Dragon Vision Productions

MEDIA: The big boss says get Chan on the case

Thanks to facebooker Gary Phuong, he's quick media scan has brought to my attention of Jackie Chan news that is much closer to home. Looks like Multicultural community-liaison officer Imanuel Choyce has beaten me to it in meeting Jackie Chan. But I'm pretty proud to see a local Cabramatta-based person connecting to the Chan man himself and the news that "if" Jackie was coming to Australia, he'll be sure to visit Sydney's Asian hotspot. Next week I'm scheduled to have a meet with Mr Choyce and get some advice on what he thinks are ways we can connect and make it even a bigger reason for Jackie to come to the Western burbs. I mean, we got parkour, our own Cabramatta made "Maximum Choppage" Kung Fu movie, and now in development "Quest for Jackie Chan!" to ride this wave.

The big boss says get Chan on the case

MELANIE KEMBREY

15 Mar, 2011 07:42 PM

HE FLIPS. He dives. He demolishes doors and climbs backwards down palm trees.

Brave — nay, foolish — is the acrobat who tries to outflip him.

And then he turns, he stares and he delivers the verbal kick in the stomach.

"Discretion is my middle name, sir," he says with a glint in his eye.

Jackie Chan might be discreet by name, certainly not by nature.

It's why the kung-fu king is the proud new ambassador for crime prevention in Cabramatta.

And get ready to flip out because the international superstar promised to visit next time he is in the country.

Cabramatta police officers approached Mr Chan — no doubt cautiously given his propensity to kick — to ask if he would like to accept the off-screen role.

Multicultural community-liaison officer Imanuel Choyce went to Hong Kong to chat with the star of the recent hit remake of The Karate Kid.

Mr Chan didn't toss and turn over his decision and was quick to accept the new mission.

He was presented with an appreciation certificate signed by local area-commander Superintendent Ray King.

Superintendent King said he hoped this appointment would strengthen the relationships between the local police and the community.

"Many residents are hesitant and fearful of talking to police about crime," he said.

"I think Jackie Chan is the perfect person to have as an ambassador. He's a good role model for people to look up to. We're always looking for new ways to build up relationships with the community."

As the face of crime prevention Mr Chan will be taking up a new kind of fight.

He will encourage Cabramatta residents to report crime and promote a safe and harmonious community.

Superintendent King said that the command would maintain regular correspondence.

Fairfield might have missed out on a visit from Oprah but Mr Chan promised Cabramatta will be on his list when he next heads down under.

Forget The Karate Kid. Now he's the Cabramatta kid.

REALITY CHECK: The Quest continues...

Yesterday night I was chatting to a friend who's probably 12 thousand kms away about the whole ordeal with the "Quest". He's a straight talker, down-to-earth and knows how to be ambitious but keeping it real.

It's true, I have to admit, still very overwhelming of a project and the pressures are coming from all sorts of directions and the biggest, from within. It is very good to be able to speak to someone who can sense what's going on and set me on some sort of direction.

When it comes down to it, I'm a scatter brain and during my week of chats with people who are contributing to the "Quest" with their great ideas, I haven't connected with even one person to embark on the whole project on its full entity.

Hence, mission of the week for me is to source my core team who I can start sharing this project, the trials and tribulations that I'm facing to pull this baby through.

In the meantime, this week has been quite a full one. I've got down the pipeline some parkour training (Fri night) , film teaching (Sat morning), film and acting studies (Sat night) and the fight test collaborations with Adrian Castro and Quan Tran (Sun morn) and Jackie Chan film schooling (Sun night).

PHASE: The Epic Writer's Block

I seriously hate the mocking blankness of the writer's block. Its like the mind is drawn towards a vacuum of nothingness and what is left is a dazed out stare at a black piece of paper or computer screen, with the tools (pen or keyboard) left untouched.

I've recently delved into writing for the sake of my long term project "Quest for Jackie!". I've been squirming away from it for a long time but my recent meet up of first film mentor, Fadia Abboud, who was outwardly shocked that I haven't even scripted it was evident.

Yes. I'm kind of backwards with this project and now have to pull my act together and set the record straight.

I must write!

But that was easily said than done. After 2 hours of desk cleaning, three large coffees, throwing pegs at the balcony pigeons and googling images of Takeshi Kaneshiro, my screen remains blank.

This happened for four days straight and I was becoming desperate. It was such an annoying experience, I knew the story, I knew what I want, but it didn't come out. Each time I'm about to commit to an action, a little gremlin inside would be snarling and hissing and telling me I don't know what I'm talking about.

So what’s with this W.B? How does it come about?

Here’s some of my discoveries. It can come about when you start writing. I guess if you are not intending to ever write, then you won’t get it.

But I’ve made a decision that writing it a very significant skill that I must develop now, and for the future.

It’s conditions does vary, from a trivial matter to one that would take years to get over.

The course may come from within, such as the creative running out of inspiration, or they may feel distracted like they have to do something beforehand.

External factors include those that impact on the creative’s life or career: illness, deaths, relationship breakdowns, financial crisis etc…

Then there’s the perception thing, writers may feel the pressures of writing “perfection” and are just waiting for the right moments to feel confident to begin.

So what are some if the remedies? I can’t pinpoint one as such, but recently, facebook friend Kevin Lai responded to my outward cries of “Writer’s block” with good link for people to check out. http://www.theartistsway.com/pdfs/basictools.pdf

Morning Pages: A daily exercise where you begin the day by writing 3 pages of nothing, something, and anything. It is a stream of consciousness that comes out onto your paper, regardless of how you feel and what you think. This exercise is suppose to be a creativity recovery and breaks down our internal censorship mechanisms so that we can think freely.

Our censorship centre is all that negative whingey, whining garble that makes us literally feel crap and deters us from our basic random fun instincts.

Unfortunately, the world encourages this mode of thinking because imposed fear on people allows them to be more easily controlled and society in one consensus way of thinking makes things run much smoother. Or so we think.

I’ve just recently started using this technique and already feeling the blocks moving and the words slowly flowing through. I taught it to the HSC high school kids today and they see the benefits in it as well.

Next month I'll be working with the host of international rap artist MC Narcy who is so use to MC battles and freestyling, I will definitely look forward to getting some further tips. But he's MC Narcy's political works.

Official Music Clip : P.H.A.T.W.A

WEEKEND: 18 months since my last haircut

If anybody knows me, they would know that I'm all "dag" with a bold caplock. But this weekend I ventured 30 mins down south to Campbelltown to finally come face-to-face with those snippers. My buddy and "beauty mentor Sophea Moeln treated me to a good relaxing hair wash and treatment, cut and loosely curled on the house. Sophea can probably vouch for my "tomboyness" but I guess there's some commonalities this this foxy lady as she, herself, admit to being one in her earlier years.

I look up to her, she's down to earth yet daring and she is bloody hard working. From being a bikini model to now a full time business owner of "Design for Pleasure" she's definitely boldly independent, even with two very young kids of her own.

Let's recap the week. Its been hectic. Lots of work demands (juggling two jobs - coordination and school teaching) as well as keeping up with the connections all over Australia and some fantastic

film projects that are in the pipeline.

I had some deep and meaningful moments with some of film colleagues who were upfront, "Maria Tran! Start finishing the Quest for Jackie Chan!". Yes...I've procrastinated, knowing at the back of my head that the clock is ticking and that this project's bold, daring and adventurous nature will make it a hit. But of course, that all depends on me. I've been trying to get over some confidence issues lately.

There are times that I'm just overthinking the whole thing and just don't feel quite there to make it happen. Deep down, I'm afraid of failure and seeing that it will be my first feature film that I direct/write/ produce, it makes me feel like I just want to crawl into a hole and die.

A good chat with Adrian Castro provided me with that wake up call. We ended Friday night with watching some more old school Jackie Chan snippets on you tube and it made me feel better that what I'm embarking on is actually quite unique. We brainstormed on some of the old school scenes and how the "Quest" can recreate some of it to pay homage to Jackie.

So in the next 7 days, I'm going to nut out the whole movie on paper. I have to do it once and for all. No fear.

P.S - Speaking of "hair" I'm currently looking for a good black quality to style into Jackie Chan's haircut. Any suggestions?

EVENT: 2011 Tropfest

This year was the first time I attended the Tropfest Short Film Festival - the world's largest of short film festival. I had accompanying me, my trusty film intern protege - Thuy Ng and newfound friend Quang Nguyen - who is currently a dedicated barrister, but possibly a future media maker. We had a good spot amongst the other 10,000 people on a patchy grass and in full view of the 3 sided screen.

But then when you look at Tropfest, even though it has come a long way, it hasn't been the platform for films made by people from culturally diverse backgrounds even though 40% of the population are born overseas or to parents born overseas. Despite the films being quite "watchable", I still yet to see the day more films from the "other" make it to the top finalist on their own terms and telling the stories they want to tell and watch.

But that in itself is filled with complexities. In one lecture that I crashed at the Sydney International Film School, I recall Ray Lawrence saying that "filmmaking is for the privileged". To some extent, I agree, as the "privilege" have access to such equipment and vast knowledge, experience and expertise.

In addition, culturally diverse communities, are more often focused on making a living than storytelling through the digital medium. I know for a fact, that if I turned back time and asked my Vietnamese parents if I could do film, I'll probably be kung fu whacked across the head for the thought of it.

But the times are changing, and 2012 Tropfest Short Film Festival Signature item is the "lightbulb" so it looks like I may be submitting something next year....Perhaps.

This year, the 16 finalist that made it were quite good.

Here are the winners...

1ST PRIZE - Animal Beatbox - Damon Gameau

2ND PRIZE - The Unspoken - Jason van Genderen

3RD PRIZE - The Maestro - Adam Anthony

BEST MALE ACTOR - SIlencer - David Collins

BEST FEMALE ACTOR - Y2GAY - Kate Worsley

WOMEN IN FILM AWARD - Things To Do - Ana Maria Belo

BEST EDITING - A Desperate Deed - Matt Bird

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY - The Maestro - Tony Gardiner

BEST SCREENPLAY - Missing Her - Michael Weisler

BEST ORIGINAL SCORE - A Desperate Deed - Jared Underwood

Street University: Battle MC Event

Looks like I'll be hitting south today at 6pm-8pm to check out the Street University's Battle MC night. I'm doing a few things here; looking to see if my workplace's project Urban Cultures can fit it with what they do and also a night out to scout for some more musical talent for my own project (s) and other things that I do. I have to admit, I was inspired by meeting Joel Turner (World Champion Beatboxer) last year and having him beatbox a segment to Jackie Chan. Hence, some of my final projected inspirations to the final "quest" will have a blend of old school and urban street culture as well.

THOUGHTS: Thinking of Law of Attraction

Before I start this blog, I just wanted to say thanks to all the people (David Lee, Naomi Lynch, Nghi Huynh, Kane Wilson, Martin Landauer, Ridwan Hassim, Quan Tran, Gentle Storm, Gary Phuong, Igor Breakenback & Daniel Whyte) who connected with my status update: Law of Attraction: What's your thoughts on it? Comment now! :) Monday at 2:09pm.

Your comments really got me thinking a bit more about "bigger picture" learning and how one spur of the moment thought can spark a whole different way of thinking.

I've been carrying my copy of "The Secret" around lately (to work, the gym and around the place. I haven't finished it though.) ever since my Melbourne-based film buddy Somchay Phakonkham has sent me a copy (even though he himself hasn't read it).

Its a handy little book and I guess essence of "The Secret" is the simple "Law of Attraction". Prior to this, I heard about this Law of Attraction in fleeting conversations about the metaphysical, but in general, its means "like attracts like" , positive thoughts brings positive results and negative thoughts brings negative outcomes.

Take for instance, if you thought out there the statement "I need more time" then you will continue to "need more time". So if you were to change this statement to "I will find more time", as in, you move away from focusing on it as a problem but more as a goal, then things will change.

In David Lee's response of "There is no such thing as true love!" Monday at 2:14pm, then apparently through the Law of Attraction, then this statement will continue to run true.

Nghi Huynh "If there is something you really want then your subconscious will work overtime to find opportunities for you to achieve it. That is why it almost seems like magic that you find just what you are looking for" Monday at 2:19pm.

I think so too with Nghi's comment. I don't know why, but like a year ago, I put it out there in the world that I wanted to meet Jackie Chan and through one thing after another, things all started connecting and opportunities showed around every corner from my Australia travels and even to Hong Kong, Beijing and China. Personally, I think if I really tried harder I could of met Jackie through my last visit to Hong Kong as I met so many people who were connected to him (personal and professional). But, my subconscious did hold back, somehow I felt the timing was off I started to delve into my own personal journey and to why I've come about to making the "Quest for Jackie Chan!".

The book, the concept and the facebook posting comments really changed my perceptions of my "inner and outer adventure", from just trying to prove a point to meet one of the world's recognisable superstar to more of a creative plight and a nation-wide wide platform and showcase of the independent filmmaking, multimedia and arts scene in Australia.

So my directions have changed, I want to make "Quest for Jackie Chan!" an epic movie. My apologies, I will make "Quest for Jackie Chan!" an epic movie.

Naomi D Lynch "

Forget the details- dont be too hung up on exactly what, and let go of how and when... But if you can create, by visualisation and imagination, (just pretend!!) the way you will FEEL once you achieve/receive whatever it is you want, then you have a goal your subconscious can work with, and like Nghi says, you will recognise opportunities and take actions that will inexorably lead you towards it. :)" Monday at 2:36pm

Naomi's comment reminded about how I first started with the idea. But I'm sure everyone else have experienced it when you get so bogged by details of the "how is it going to happen" and bringing up an exhaustive list of how an idea won't happen. I mean, our society is geared towards the fear of failure, hence, ideas that are "deemed as far fetched" are often discouraged. But hey, how would have Thomas Edison invented electricity without some "What if" thinking.

Kane Wilson "...

Now if humans were magnets we could all just stick together. But we don't! However some people are repelled.This may be a deodorant thing. In conclusion! I really have no bloody idea!"

Monday at 6:27pm

Kane's mention of some people "repelling" rings true to some of my experiences. I have come across people who I just simply cannot gel. Its not that they are a bad person or anything, I came to accept that people are diverse and can have different wavelengths. At times it can be frustrating to get them to see the "picture" of the project, but at the same time they are vital as they highlight unforeseen challenges that I will eventually have to confront.

Martin Landauer "Game theory seems more reliable." Monday at 6:48pm

Martin has a point. Law of Attraction suffers from the scientific perspectives. Its is a concept that is unfalsifiable and untestable and most evidence are all subjective, personal and story-based. I guess, we are living in a world where having control and the ability to replicate things are successful is important to maximise efficiency and productivity. It is a worldview perspective choice though, and I have to side with this comment:

Gary Phuong "....And it's easier when you feel good about yourself." Monday at 11:05pm

I definitely prefer to be seen a an agent of change rather than a bunch of swirling atoms randomly hanging around and waiting to be hit by a bunch of bigger swirling atoms (like a bus) or something.

Here are also some other to add:

Ridwan Hassim "If u believe it and see it and feel it and hear it, with great repetition, it becomes a reality." Monday at 7:17pm

Quan Tran "You can't runaway from it but time will tell how long it will last."

Monday at 7:40pm

Gentle Storm "Laws are undeniable truth! Especially this one. ;p"

Monday at 8:58pm

To keep things on a light note, this is Igor Breakenback's visual interpretation titled "Law of Attraction At Work".

I also got this awesome link from Melbourne-based actor/ martial artist Daniel Whyte (who's met Jackie Chan before) and he stars in the feature film "Being in Heaven", which is on the concept of Law of Attraction. Check out the trailer.

My final note, I think the Law of Attraction works for me. From thoughts, words to action, even in a simple facebook status, I'm able to map out people's thoughts, experiences and projects that has pretty much been the "Star Wars - Yoda" at this point in my life. Everything I've thought up has gone pretty much how I wanted, and all the people I've connected with are the "gold" in my life.

Thank you for everything!

Signing out,

Maria Tran

New home with B & E Productions

After a string of wacky and unwanted events from staying from one hostel to the next. Executive producer of B & E ("Breaking & Entering" and/or "Bey & Elizabeth" Productions) Bey Logan has offered me a nice place to stay and be more focused on the "Quest for Jackie Chan!" until my departure on the 26th of January, 2011. I'm so glad as I was being to wonder if I was to survive another week of small tight and flea infested spaces.

Its been a challenging and new learning curve at the B & E Productions. I've been interning for the team (Elizabeth, Vicki & Bey) and doing a series of office tasks, from coffee making (Bey likes it hot, two equals and good decent dollop of milk. You'll be told if its shitty), running office errands to film concept developments, research, script readings and film budgeting. I've been sitting in to quite a number of his meetings as well and also learning more about independent, yet commercial, realm of filmmaking in Hong Kong.

Bey is a quirky character indeed. He has is moments of highs and lows, but at the end of the day, he is quite focused on the things his straightforwardness will certainly get to the bottom of any dilemma. If anyone wants to work with this man, you need to be almost psychic and be able to tap into the chakras to figure out this individual.

But overall, Bey's taught me a whole bunch of new things and it is very rare to meet people that are willing to give you a chance in the brutal HK filmmaking/ entertainment industry.

He's been in the industry for a very long time so knows all the who's who and is always on the lookout for up and coming talents entering the field. Of course, he reminds me that young people may have fresh ideas and passion, however, sometimes a little too much arrogance and ego will see them walking out the door as quickly as they got in. So to break into this industry, there has too be a high level of persistence, following through with what one sets out to make and collaborative thinking.

Ideas are always in abundance, they are everywhere and can also be found under a rock. Its whether or not the individual has enough guts to risk all to lift that idea and bring it to life.

So what is up with B & E Productions? Well, "The Blood Bond" is releasing soon in January 2011, Bey's book is currently available in selected Hong Kong bookstores (Dymocks & HMV). Bey's producer credits on the "Little Gobie" is visible on Hong Kong billboards and bus stops. Also at certain restaurants Cafe De Corale, have partnered up with "Little Gobie" movie so their marketing and promos is also visible here. He's also juggling between concept developments on "Snowblade" as well as further developments of "Red Dawn Rising".

At the end of the day, I'm grateful to be surrounded by inspiring people and also resources (you should see their library collections of action films and books! *Drools).

On the Quest...

I'm currently working on a string of interesting events to be unfolded around Hong Kong in the next few weeks in relation to the "Quest for Jackie Chan!". News over here on "Jackie Chan" himself have been quite negative lately, hence my "Quest" has been not well received by the general public. But I will not be disheartened and will continue on my own journey and self discovery and see this project through to the end.

Quest for Jackie Chan! 3rd place at Metro Screen Pitching Competition

Quest for Jackie Chan! Team Maria Tran, Thuy Ng & Jack Ngu

Quest for Jackie Chan! takes out 3rd place for the 2010 Metro Screen SPAA Pitching Competition! The project was selected out of over 70 submissions and was amongst the top 10 finalist competing for 3 prizes.

THE FINALISTS ARE:

•Jiao Chen with 'Remembering Six-Four' – Transmedia documentary
•Brianna O’Donohue with 'Godsville' – Animated television sitcom
•Adam Lemmey with 'Creepy Weekly' – Children’s live-action television series
•Richard Attieh with 'Outback Skies' – Travel and adventure series
•Maria Tran with 'Quest for Jackie Chan' – Feature documentary
•Rick Viede with 'All the Way with Glace' – Transmedia project
•Julie Noever with 'The Kingdom' - Feature documentary
•Katie Hickson with 'Horse Talk TV' – Factual television series
•Shanon Wilson with 'Parita’s Journey' – Historical drama feature
•Roy Weiland with 'Barton the Ghost Catcher' - Children’s transmedia project

Good Pitch
by Cara Nash September 29, 2010 11:29 Edited September 29, 2010 11:31

The winners of the Metro Screen's SPAA Fringe Competition have been announced.

Metro Screen's SPAA Fringe Pitching Competition held September 28 saw ten unique projects pitched in front of seven industry leaders and a capacity audience.

The project which took out the top prize and is now representing Metro Screen at the national SPAA Fringe Pitching Competition on October 23 - an event designed to find the best projects in the country - is Roy Weiland with his children's transmedia project Barton the Ghost Catcher.

The project sees class weirdo Barton tormented by ghosts until he discovers he is the only person who can stop them and save the world.

"I'm really excited to pitch in front of the movers and shakers. To be put in front of them is why I do it. It's a long quest as a filmmaker, this is really amazing," Weiland said.

The winner of the SPAA Fringe Competition will then compete as one of only two finalists at the Holding Redlich Pitching Comp at the SPAA Conference in mid November. This winner will receive an airfare to the Cannes Film Festival or a TV market in 2010/11.

Second place on the night went to Julie Noever with her feature documentary The Kingdom and third place was awarded to Maria Tran for her feature documentary Quest for Jackie Chan.

Also highly recommended by the judges were Rick Viede's Transmedia project All the Way with Glace and Brianna O'Donohue's animated television sitcom Godsville.

The panel of judges included independent Producer Trish Lake whose credits include Gettin' Square and The Burning Season, Distribution Executive of Verve Entertainment David Dombrosky, and Megan Simpson Huberman who is Director of Creative and Enterprise Development at Screen Australia.

For more information on Metro Screen and the courses available, visit their website here. For more information on the SPAA Fringe Pitching Competition, click here.

Picture caption:Winner of Metro Screen's SPAA Fringe Pitching Competition, Roy Weiland.

INTERVIEW: With Beryl Seckington

Today day was a mellow one, it started off with a lot of interstate phone calls and more email outs and finally a meeting with Beryl and Robert Seckington at a local cafe at nearby Central Station, Sydney.

Beryl have been referred to me by Peter Castaldi as a potential candidate for her documentary final trimester assignment on "Researching Australian directors and producers" for her Bachelor of Film Production at SAE College.

She was particularly interested in my project "Quest for Jackie Chan!" as well as my guerrilla tactics and also my opinions on women in the Australian film industry.

I admit, I did feel slightly giddy to be amongst the best of Australian filmmakers such as Jan Chapman, John Winter (producer of "Rabbit Proof Fence"), Jan Kennedy (Australia's first female DOP) and then there was me.

In a nutshell, I think that women in the film industry do have it more tough than their counterparts. There's an intial sense that we have to be "ballsy" and "masculine" about our visions to get our projects up and running.

Sometimes it can both be refreshing to other people, while there are still others whole think that women in the industry are a bit of a joke or a fleeting moment, until we get married, have kids and go to the places we belong.

For me, only recently that I've been a big advocate for women in roles of writers/ producers/ directors in action films and I do hope to see changes in the local industry of Australia. Of course, all changes must start with the person themselves and I do realise the long road of learning that I'd have to embark on if I was serious in the business. But until that happens....

IN THE MEDIA: Actor channels her mum

04 APR 10 @ 07:05AM BY CARLEEN FROST

SHE’S played an assassin, a Japanese schoolgirl and a ninja - but one of Maria Tran’s most challenging roles has been to portray her mother in a new children’s series.

Tran, 25, will play a 35-year-old Vietnamese mother in the new ABC series My Place.

She modelled the character on her own mother, Betty Tran.

“It was an interesting experience,” she said.

“I had to do research and follow my mother around the house jotting notes on her behavioural patterns, rummaging through her old clothing and go through her old ‘80s photos to make reference.”

My Place is based on the award-winning book by Nadia Wheatley and Donna Rawlins. It will debut on Thursday, April 22; with Tran expected to appear in the series on May 10.

The Fairfield West resident is no stranger to the big screen, having already appeared in several locally-made films.

Tran starred in the independent film Maximum Choppage and was recently part of a reality documentary titled Quest for Jackie Chan.

And when she’s not in front of the camera; she’s behind it writing, producing and directing. The former Canley Heights High School student produced and acted in the ABC mini-series Downtown Rumble, and directed the Vietnamese documentary Happy Dent. On top of all her film commitments, Tran helps organise youth projects at the Information Cultural Exchange in Parramatta. She admits she’s got a lot on her plate. “I’m juggling a whole bunch of projects at the moment,” she said.

Tran, a psychology graduate from the University of Western Sydney, is well known in Fairfield for helping promote local film projects. Last year she received a Fairfield City Council Australia Day Achievement Medallion.