NEWS FLASH:
LAKE EFFECTS HAS CAUGHT THE EYE OF OVER ONE DOZEN
HOLLYWOOD FILM DISTRIBUTORS AND TV NETWORKS

The American Film Market (AFM)

Producer Sara Elizabeth and Director Mike McKay attended the American Film Market in Los Angeles in November where Lake Effects was very well received. 

Founded in 1981, the American Film Market (AFM) has grown steadily to become the premiere global marketplace where Hollywood’s decision-makers and trendsetters all gather under one roof.  Unlike a film festival, the AFM is a marketplace where production and distribution deals are closed. In just eight days, more than $800 million in deals will be sealed — on both completed films and those that haven’t yet begun shooting.   AFM has garnered the reputation of being the must-attend industry event. –www.ifta-online.org

The information contained herein does not guarantee or promise any level of financial success for ”Lake Effects” in the market, the distributors we will work with, or the strategy we will employ in marketing the film.  Nevertheless, we are excited to share the overwhelmingly encouraging response we have received from many industry professionals about the potential market for our film. 

Our week resulted in conversations with more than a dozen interested film distributors and television networks.  This strong interest comes from a common belief that "Lake Efffects" fills the need for family product and that it is a great fit for family and women's networks as a Network Original.  Members of these companies are currently reading the script and considering getting involved in casting, in distribution or sales, and/or in providing funding.  Life Out Loud Films was very selective in who we met with at the Market and approached companies that specifically have an interest in Family Films. Since this Network Original avenue could likely provide an upfront deal and allows us to maintain licensing rights to Theatrical, DVD, Foreign and other ancillary markets for additional profit, this route will be explored thoroughly first.

           
“Lake Effects” Market Advantages 2009

• Donations and Investors on Board:  We were able to get great meetings at  AFM because we already have a portion of our funding in the bank and we have such great community support.   They were impressed by the tremendous support of the community that has resulted in a high percentage of the budget being secured with in-kind donations.  This method of developing a film with such community involvement has become the “story behind the story” of “Lake Effects” and has sparked additional interest in our project.  Our commitment to attach recognizable talent and our current connections to talent were also factors in our success.
• The Economy: One company shared with us their observation that the economy is weeding out the less committed filmmakers and assured us that for those still making films, this is the climate to excel.  Studios will claim that the film industry is in difficult straits today…But we discovered that the environment is not so much “tough” but difficult for those who have not yet adjusted to the new business climate.  Many had extremely large budgets in the past with little financial concern. This economy gives filmmakers like Life Out Loud Films, LLC a distinct advantage. 

• Less Product, Same Demand:  At all of the markets this year, distributors are saying they are seeing less product but they are still looking to buy the same amount of product as before.  Many distributors relied on companies such as Picturehouse, Warner Independent and Paramount Vantage for product.  Now that those companies have closed their doors in the down economy, distributors are needing to depend on other production companies to fill those voids.  To our way of thinking, this means more opportunity for us and less competition.  

• Family film: This genre has a very strong market but few family films are being made .  Thus, most companies we approached were excited to meet with us and hear about the details of “Lake Effects.” 

Based on a strong market for family product, the desire of distributors to get involved during development in order to become our official distributor, and the warm welcome of “Lake Effects” basic storyline and the community story behind the film, we look forward to green lighting soon and completing “Lake Effects” in 2010.  

 "LAKE EFFECTS" THANKS THE SML COMMUNITY FOR THE WARM WELCOME!

As the core production team for "Lake Effects" returns from our trip to the lake, we are left inspired.  Inspired not only by the kindness and warm spirit of the people, but by the breathtaking colors of the fall leaves and the serenity of the lake.  The trip only confirmed  why a film about this gem and its community needs to be made.  As we continue to scout locations, learn about the community and seek funding we will keep you updated and hope you check back here often.
Thank you to each of you for welcoming us into your community and sharing your stories!  We look forward to creating with you!
-November 08



Cheers to SML! Thank You!

2010 Academy Awards Party at Mariner's Landing to benefit Life Out Loud Films.

     
 "Lake Effects" Around Town

Renewanation's Dan Coy gives Producer Sara Elizabeth and The Lake Affects "Lake Effects" Committee Chair Kim White a tour as they meet with and scout  Parkway Christian Academy.



SML Business Expo: 
"Lake Effects" fans of all ages; Tim Ernandes, WSLK owner/radio personality  will play himself  in the film.


Cable Channel 12 interview;   Aspiring actress and Theatre Major Chinah Helmandollar/Miss Smith Mountain Lake speaks with producer Sara Elizabeth



Sara Elizabeth dressed as Snow White for the Hot Shots Halloween for the kids.

PICTURES FROM SCOUTING ON THE LAKE AND THE MEET & GREET AT MANGO'S
Thank you Mango's for your generosity

The Lake affects "Lake Effects" committee member Roy Enslow takes the team on a water scout.