The WorthJourney (Special Edition)

Streaming Channels. Independent Filmmakers. Film Festivals. Where does it end? There are thousands of digital streaming channels to choose from, but where are the developers of these channels taking us? Where does it all end? Or will there be a climax to this new way of watching films?

From YouTube to any traditional television station, which is now a streaming channel, there is so much to choose from Categories are now being created within the channels to enable the public power of choice As many of you know, the returned viewership is based on the trust value of a good film.

In describing the aforementioned, some quality films are being overlooked for various reasons One of the main reasons is the amount of rubbish that takes up the viewer's time searching In the end, the choices made are based on familiarity with films from known actors and directors.

One of Bolera's 4 Letter Films' primary objectives is to showcase selected films that are overlooked yet deserving of public time

In the past, the public was led to believe a film would be entertaining based on trailers backed by promotion from the actors involved as well as the media. This would have been considered a traditional method of making films available to the public For the most part, this process has become dormant.

By now, we are accustomed to various accessible digital platforms for films that were evolved from renting a DVD or Video Tape to the touch of a screen But for movie lovers, nothing can compare to the excitement of going to the cinema

The WorthJourney involvement is, to support our sector in the industry via Bolera 4 Letter Films from a viable film review aspect. The latter was once considered a major factor in whether or not a film was worth paying hard-earned money to watch .

The storyline of the film is our spine concerning reviewing as well as the composition of the cinematography and the soundtrack.

The films that have been published on Boleras' OTT Channel and App, have been licensed with the intention of placement continuation. There will be a revolving door if there is a lack of public demand.

We wish to encourage you, the reader, to view the trailer of the film and read the short script We understand and appreciate cautious optimism, but we hope you see what we believe in by sharing our love of independent movies. .

In the magical Badlands of North Dakota, the Fort Berthold Indian reservation sits right in the middle of the largest shale field in North America. Members of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation find themselves locked in a Faustian struggle:

Accept the potential financial enrichment of the tribe from oil extraction at the cost of the future health of their ancestral homelands.

Directed By: Bosko Krijas

Lazar returns to his native village, trying to sell his father’s land and go to Italy. In the village, he finds his uncle with sister and their unhealthy relationship. The country grows into a symbolic experience in which Byzantine icons, incest, and animal fights appear. Personal problems are slowly opening up, but the line between life and death is narrowing.

https://www.boleraoil.com/athanasia

ESTABLISHING A CODE OF PRACTICE

Phillip A Mc Carthy, a self proclaim award winning film director, who isn't shy of telling anyone after an initial greeting, shares his evaluation of indie film-making 2023.

Our cautious optimism to published Mc Carthys' words is based on what you the reader will find based on your own research after reading his words.

Based on his twenty-year tenure in the industry and his qualifications, his written delivery is a brutally blunt disposition that clarifies his standard Read carefully

To establish an independent film streaming service to support independent films that are composed by those who are genuine filmmakers, there has to be an organized structure. The sensitive vocabulary term which has been avoided is “qualified personnel”

In Mc Carthy words;

"First, I have to say; As an independent film director or production company, I think marketing and promoting your movie is very important Be it via social media platforms, especially your own, is very important. Sure, everyone is doing it but it seems to be limited as if there is a lack of confidence. I wonder why some indie filmmakers spend time making their films Maybe it is for fueling their egos or something "

"The time spent shooting the film is really the second stage of the embryo of the film. Once its completed there has to be independent efforts of promoting the film with friends, family and social media acquaintances It is social media after all and the purpose of indie films digitally are story telling "

"If your dreams don't scare you then their not big enough!"

Phillip A Mc Carthy, enjoying an appearance at the Cannes Film Festival 2014

"We all tell stories via the social media platform. At least there should be some feedback of some kind or none at all, which should let the filmmaker know who is really supportive Its their film and its up to the indie filmmaker to sell their own film first. Independent means self dependent.

Everyone can put a film on YouTube but even videos on YouTube has to be shared and promoted That isn't a knock on YouTube as it is the number one source of entertainment these days but film distributors and streaming companies alike will take notice of how determined the filmmaker is. Determination is a key factor.

I have witnessed over the last 12 years or so is, once the films are completed, the filmmakers will not promote their films Or should I say half-hearted at best? It makes me wonder if they are serious. If it’s a case of buying a DSLR or expensive gear to cater to a glorified poster then why don’t they invest in other independent filmmakers? This method could work because the filmmakers would learn from one another and develop some grit to their craft.

The filmmaking process of today is a mystery to me.

Everyone has their method of making a film and that is grand I ask what happened to the traditional components that make up the body of film work.

In my opinion, the components that should be used or what I exercise to create a film from start to finish are:

First of all, there has to be a series of meetings to discuss the idea with the cast and crew to become familiar with one another Then there is the process of scheduling what days would be allocated for filming.

I would recommend hiring a good DP (Director of Photography) and trustworthy Assistant Director. Everyone has to be on the same page and sold into the vision of the script This takes time

These days the all-in-one app that encourages want to be filmmakers is more detrimental to the industry than anything. You have script writing apps, editing apps, film scores samples and built-in green screens within the free downloadable programs

Someone can make a film with zero qualifications perfectible cinematography that is not original with a storyline that doesn't make sense.

Perhaps some of the film commissions that are out there could regulate both the content and quality of the films. There should be a system in place that requires proof of qualifications before submitting films to either film festivals or streaming channels. There is too much rubbish that is being published as films that are distracting the public from well-written stories in the form of films.

I am in Ireland and this could be challenging due to the weather which is constantly changing So for those that are in a stable weather environment, I have to ask what gives? If you are filming in a predictable weather environment, then get a thumb out and do it right.

If you want to make a film, then go to a film school or at the very least take a course in filmmaking I dare to mention shadowing a production crew as a volunteer to get hands-on education. Although, the latter may be asking too much as that would take time and patience is one of those forbidden words these days

"There has to be a code of practice within the industry from film festivals to production company's. Its not about changing the rules or traditions but where is the code of practice?"

When I was making my first feature film "The Vein Within", it took me seven years to write the script In the end, I wasn't happy with the direction I was going in as I thought I had to learn more about what I wanted to display what was in my head. So I decided to rewrite it again on my own.

Anyone that can take an idea and put it on paper and develop it to a screen in the form of a film is powerful

This is what got us selected into the Cannes Film Festival, so I have resorted to this type of formula. I was selected in 2011 and 2014 with a short film and a feature film respectively. Will we get there again? Who knows but I will continue to make films my way

Eventually, somehow the film will be shown. The idea that was created will find its way to someone I mean that is the objective right?

These days we cannot handle rejection, which leads to smartphone, cheap instant filmmaking that lasts as long as the battery source on our phones. Unfortunately, the films of late are forgotten about and no one will watch them again

It took much less time but through that process of nearly a decade, I learned how to write a script

Then there was the casting side of things which was a completely different sector as the characters had to fit the script. They had to believe in what I was attempting to convey within the film.

To me, the treatment of a film has to be treated like a puzzle

How can an App on a machine put those pieces together from a vision created by a human? It happens and seems to work for some and that is fair enough. Bolera 4 Letter Films (Ireland) will not that waste our time and money to facilitate those types of films We prefer to have an indie film that has some mistakes but with organic elements from a well-written script to entertain the public.

As the old saying goes; "Everyone and everything isn't for everyone!"

This leads me to extend my take on instant releases and smartphone filmmaking There is some remarkable footage sure but it's not our thing. I think that smartphone films should be treated as part of the treatment and accepted as a pilot to a film. Again that is my opinion and we are all guilty of recording with our phones But can you take the footage seriously?

To me, it is like a woman that puts on cheap makeup in her car before a job interview or a guy who works on a building site that changes clothes before going on a date. It is temporary, its just to get the job or for the guy to score on a date

It makes me wonder why are there so many shortcuts to making films. I can understand the eternal stress of raising capital for making the film but there will never be any perfection to the craft.

Film Festivals? When I was selected at the Cannes Film Festival in both years, my hometown film festival Cork City Film Festival rejected both of my films. To this day, its something I cannot get over which leads me to ask "What is really going on with film festivals?"

There are over 500 major film festivals. The amount of local and internet festivals runs into the thousands.

I think with the small film festivals circuit there is a system of you scratch my back and I will scratch yours. It has everything to do with ego and of course money.

Now that we are in the post-Covid stage, the majority of these festivals are virtual The filmmakers just want laurels to insert on their posters and are happy if they receive a certificate and a glass, not crystal, award. I guess this makes them happy to share on their Facebook page. That is their end game then unfortunately they self-title themselves as an indie filmmaker The ethical part of filmmaking today Here is a title: "Laurel Filmmakers!"

There are pieces of the idea that will be all over the place. The director with a chosen crew has to put those elements of the film from his vision into one piece. The most beautiful thing in the world is when those organic pieces are put together from an idea that is released to be shared with the world

Films have to fail in some capacity They have to fail There are reasons for my statement here. It could be the best film ever made but it could fail at the box office due to categories or an internal marketing push. Yet the cast and crew could love it and are satisfied with what they set out to achieve

I think some of the companies that host film festival submissions, which enables them to make millions of dollars each month, should employ personnel to monitor the film festival advertised But that would take away their profit for which I am sure that suggestion would fall on deaf ears. There are, however, some festivals that uphold a certain standard of films that are considered for being selected.

"Will I have a film selected at Cannes again? Who knows but I am going to continue to make films my way!"

Film festivals were established for filmmakers to have the chance to showcase their work through screenings The festivals should be considered as a gathering for those within the same industry to enjoy each other's company and trade. It is the perfect opportunity to meet other directors, production companies as well as talent agencies and distributors.

The thing about it is: I refused to wait to feel rejected With "The Vein Within", I wanted to know. It took me years to write the script and get everyone involved on what could be considered by today's standard as a penny budget.

In 2014, A Vein Within, wasn't selected by the Irish Film Board for Cannes I thought ok, no issue as my motivation for continuation was clear in my head We, meaning the production crew, took it upon ourselves to bring the film to Cannes. We invested in ourselves and brought a small camera crew and two of the actors to Cannes.

My objective was to sell the film myself coordinating an independent screening of the film. I invited several distributors big and small and did whatever promotion there was to announce my tiny event within the most prestigious film festival.

I also had to be careful with whom I told my plans to As independent artist we sometimes feel the need to announce our intentions to people outside of the industry. Why? I think it mainly for emotion support.

"I refused to wait to feel rejected."

I thought this is what has to be done for the individuals with the cheque book for large promotion and power to get behind the film. I didn't care what it took to get there, I had to be a part of the wheels of the machine.

No one is going to come out of the blue and notice the indie films and it's not only my opinion Self-promotion with determination is vital

If it is not meant to be then that is part of the process. I cannot reiterate enough that rejection is part of the process. That year in Cannes the film A Vein Within wasn't meant to be But I was there with the film and went as far as I possibly could

There was no way I would allow anyone free rent in my head and control my love of filmmaking. I don't know about the others but I thought it was quite funny. Sure it was expensive and all of that but satisfaction comes with a price and sometimes it takes personal sacrifice and and hard work combined with whatever you want to call it.

On the flight back home it wasn't a case of feeling let down or being disappointed it was more of a case of; "Next?"

Photos used by kind permission. Philip A. Mc.Carthy All Rights Reserved.2023

Betrayed and arrears, Jorge deducts all your anger at the bricklayer working at his home. However, at times, banal decisions have unexpected consequences.

https://www.boleraoil.com/banalities

Director- Rafael de Andrade

MAINTAINING A PROMOTIONAL FIRE

Creating hype or igniting enthusiasm is easy In the world we live in today, it is easier to copy an idea or follow someone else idea via social media platforms. There is no need to repeat a subject that we are all aware of.

However, that enthusiasm is essentially a fire and, in most cases, a small fire that we hope to stay lit What we all forget is how to keep that fire going

The point of this piece is: “What is today's artist willing to do to maintain a fire for a worthy and longlasting burn?”

A useless fire is equivalent to wasteful and selfish promotion It is a waste of time as well as misusing the digital and physical print space that is accessible. In other words, a repeated promotional skit that has been done before.

When a company or indie artist and in this case indie filmmaker, straddles the fence with “lazy promotion” then it’s a weak fire The fire doesn't last long.

At the start of the second quarter of the millennium, this happens more often than not. But if that promotion is strong from the start and complimented with good intentions, then the fire is strong The public will get it

The latter cannot be repeated enough and our intentions at this point should be transparent.

A big fire just as large promotion budgets are spent on films to keep everyone warm to attract the public attention. The sharing of the trailers from those films, if there are good trailers, secures a comfort level or a warm attraction to what will be shown on the screen. "A fire!"

Here is a story about an ordinary girl from a provincial town in the Ukraine, before the war. Lisa, is laid off, which deprives her of work and housing. While looking for a job and a place to live, she turns for help to her old acquaintance Yegor, who offers her to forge some time by streaming.

A propelling documentary about the Sunda Baduy tribe or Kenekes people, living in the westernmost of Java, Banten province, Indonesia.

The film shows the respect they have for their Goddess of rice known in this region as "Dewi Sri Pohaci Sanghyang Asri".

Directed by: Ensadi Joko Santoso

What is a “like me” title? A “like me” title can be described as the selfabsorbed and selfgratifying title one gives themselves once they

have a self-fulfilled display of "something", that one wants to share with the world Their objective is to have whoever spends the time viewing their display of "something" give them a like via social media platforms. The "something" in this instance pertains to indie filmmakers and their films.

Long before the emotional dependency on social media, this subject matter would have been considered desperate

Not all films are liked and unfortunately, the films that have the most views are liked.

Would it be a crime to ask the wanderers on social media platforms; "why" we should like their page, channel or film?

If these wanderers would consider stating why one would watch their film first, then it could lead to a following out of interest.

These days we all tend to have a one-shot pitch regarding promotion without spending the extra time by publishing an alternative post It cannot be that difficult to give the public a selection to choose from.

If and when a particular film has been viewed, let's face it, there is another scenario. Either you spend half a second pushing the like button or you don't with the risk of never communicating with those who more or less begged you to support them

We, The Worth Journey, ask where are the positive comments or constructive comments?

When someone shares or like a particular film, it motivates the entire production team

The indie filmmakers that rely solely on a "like" as part of a promotional skit, should not be liked It is not an opinion but a referral of choice. We, the public or worldwide media that are on social media platforms, will always reserve the right of refusal based on our freedom of choice.

Does this mean certain films in question are rubbish? No It is a matter of taking the risk by viewing the films and the effort of sharing by a social community support group.

Qualified independent filmmakers, who dare to share their films with the world represent their passion If you will, have the same courage and view their films You never know, you may find a personal gem that you can relate to. The choice is always up to the consumer to like or share.

THE PEACE OF MIND

WRITTEN BY KARIM EVANS

FORWARDED BY:

JEROME FITTS

When I started the single; “Peace Of Mine”, there were no intentions of doing a full album. The “Peace Of Mind” single is a blessing because I believe all music is inspired by life experiences. Real music is created by what is happening in a person's life at that time.

I was going through trials and tribulations in my life for some time The lyrics were composed of the energy I had at the time. That was the foundation of the song. The events that were taking place at that time led to the evolution of my peace of mind.

The single is part of my sixth studio album. It has to be said that it was my easiest album to record because of the time in between my last fulllength record, which was seven years It was long overdue but the life experiences in between explain why this record starting with the Peace of Mind single just flowed.

r countries' or various societies' relabelling hip-hop. For example German Hip-Hop or J-Pop in Japan and even Irish and UK Hip-Hop.

With the documentary "Soul Brother" we tried to keep the settings as real as they come The beat and movements that I displayed through the dance are real. I didn't choreograph any of it. It was how we danced during the incarnation of Hip Hop. This is why towards the end of the film, it was important to show where I came from, South Central Los Angeles.

Photos used by kind permission. Craig Evans. All Rights Reserved.2023

Someone asked me why I think it was important to show the true nature of the origins of Hip-Hop.

When I was in Japan, I told the audience or students that I taught dance that Hip-Hop is American and derives from Black American culture. It was created by people of colour from within America. We call it HipHop and that is what it is. It is a culture and it is one genre.

For the last twenty years, people from different countries have been putting their culture in front of the phrase Hip-Hop They have made it their own. It is not theirs, the genre belongs to us.

It is universal, so you do not have to put a country's name in front of it. There is no need to pronounce another culture in front of Hip-Hop. The major problem is instead of acknowledging true Hip-Hop, they put their cultural moniker in front of the phrase Hip-Hop.

I understand why because of the dialect of Black American English. I get that part. They cannot rhyme the way we can.

It can be looked upon as disrespectful to the Hip-Hop culture but maybe they should study Black American culture first. This is where the genre originates from. You cannot say it is Hip-Hop and you do not know Black American people.

This is from my worldwide touring experience. I have toured all over the world but before going to some of these countries, I would research as much information as I could before I arrived

I wanted to understand what the culture was because I did not want to disrespect anyone’s culture or traditions.

It should be the same with true Hip-Hop culture. Everyone in the world tries to mimic Black American culture. I will say it again, it is universal and people gravitate to it because they like it. Perhaps it gives them an identity that they do not have within their society. For us, it is who we are.

We, meaning the ones who were a part of the creation of the Hip Hop culture also have to be open to sharing our culture. And more importantly the right way.

When it comes to those who call themselves hip-hoppers yet distance themselves from the Black American culture? They are essentially thieves They owe us

"We call it Hip-Hop and that is what it is. It is a culture and it is one genre."

THANK YOU!

In closing, we have a series of questions directed at indie filmmakers and their objectives:

What is the purpose of having hundreds of festival laurels on the film posters?

We would think it would be more attractive to have the awards listings on a separate advertising ploy sheet.

Once a film big or small has been accepted as part of a streaming service offering, should there be a mutual understanding regarding attracting viewership? Based on our fact-finding we have noticed that it's the end game for indie filmmakers. They are content with just landing their film on any channel.

Why not construct a joint effort promotion plan to strengthen the viewership?

From Bolera's viewpoint, it's vital to know what level of commitment the filmmakers have regarding marketing. Within any marketing ploy or plan, the more effort that is put into proposing the film to the public, the better the viewership results are.

Often the result doesn't represent the efforts, however, there are transparent efforts that can also water down a quality film. We can all push a button or fill in a template.

Bolera 4 Letter Films does not offer packaged marketing services or any package for that matter. We pay our film license fees to the filmmakers to secure our deal.

We ask you, the public, to be kind to yourself and view the films. There are no major search requirement or fee to register to view our selection of films. We stream films with well-written scripts that has professional cinematography.

More importantly, there are efforts put into delivering the films and a mutual understanding of marketing strategies.

We are clear from the beginning; "We either sweat together and win together."

The public does not owe us anything, it is their choice to watch the films that we believed in. Stay with us if you will, as our streaming door will circulate based on public demand.