Dusty Springfield Drama Set to Premiere at the L.A. Shorts Film Festival
Soul of Blue Eye
Set in 1970, “The Soul of Blue Eye” tells the story of Dusty Springfield’s decision to record her Platinum selling hit Son of a Preacher Man for Atlantic Records, and the struggles she had as a white gay woman singing black soul music during the tumultuous 1960’s.
Besides having a hit show, “It Must Be Dusty” in England, Dusty was influential in the discovery of Jimi Hendrix and Led Zeppelin, and produced dozens of Billboard top 100 hits in her career.
Written and Directed by Jesse Brunt, the film has put a lot of effort into the authenticity of the scenes as well as the tense interaction between Dusty and one particular interviewer who breaks an agreement, and demands to know about her sexual preferences. “I wanted to tell part of the story about this amazing artist,” says Brunt, who also shot and edited much of the project. “she created music that has sustained the test of time and she broke new ground for an entire genre which came to be known as Blue Eyed Soul.”
Producer Bob Bekian noted that the tag line, “You know my music, but you don’t know me” really gave insight into the story. “She was an amazingly talented musical artist who had a genuine desire to help others –which is a refreshing story in today’s world of ‘everyone-out-for-themselves.'”
Producers Bekian and Brunt have a feature length script that they are looking to produce with Nicole Kidman as their first choice to play Dusty Springfield, and have made this short to give people a glimpse into the full story they hope to make.
“The Soul of Blue Eye” stars Paige Segal as Dusty Springfield, and will be shown at the Laemmle NOHO 7 Theater in North Hollywood on Saturday, July 26th 2014 at 3:15pm. For more information, email bob@loyalstudios.tv.
For more information about the festival, visit LA Short Fest
To know more about Loyal Studios, visit the Loyal Studios website
“Soul of Blue Eye”
Soul of Blue Eye
Set in 1970’s Los Angeles, the film “Soul of Blue Eye” explores Dusty Springfield’s life at the pivotal moment where the term ‘Blue Eyed Soul’ become known through her album “Dusty in Memphis.” Its focus is on the struggle she faced daily that came to a head at one interview with Atlantic Records.
Her road was not an easy one. Dusty fought a constant battle between her love for her girlfriend, and keeping up appearances in the public eye. Her relationship suffered under the suffocating stress of living in a society plagued with rampant homophobia. Coming out in that time period would likely promise a lifetime of social bullying for both her and her lover.
“I find Dusty Springfield’s story compelling and underrated,” says Jesse Brunt, Director. “Her achievements are rarely recognized, and her contributions to music almost never spoken of. I made this film to help fix that. Her life has much to contribute to a contemporary audience.”
“Son of a Preacher Man” is one of the most recognizable songs in soul music today. It’s played on thousands of shop radios, kept alive in classic rock/soul stations, and the smooth, smoky-edge timber of Dusty’s voice influences artists of all ages today. The song, originally offered to Aretha Franklin, cemented Dusty Springfield’s career into the heart of American music history despite her blond-haired, blue-eyed British origins. She once commented that if people only knew her by her music, they would think she was a black woman.
On the set of “Soul of blue Eye”
Producer, Bob Bekian, saw the potential of this movie, and was happy to offer up his studio, equipment, and knowledge to the project. “What interested me most about the Dusty Springfield story was the relationship she had with Jimi Hendrix and Led Zeppelin, who are two of my favorite artists. She recognized their incredible talent and helped launch both of their careers in the late 60’s.”
The music industry owes much to her efforts and powerful charisma, not just because of her voice, but of what she accomplished behind the scenes. Were it not for her influence, the world may have never known the legendary rock sounds of Led Zeppelin, or marked the 60’s with the guitar riffs of Jimi Hendrix. She is responsible for convincing the agents at her label to listen to Led Zepplin’s music, and ultimately sign them. The death of Jimi Hendrix, hit her hard. She lost an amazing colleague, and a long-time friend.
“Soul of Blue Eye” stars Paige Segal (“The Day the Music Died”), who gives a spark of life, attitude, and vulnerability to the persona of one of the worlds most famous soul singers.
BURBANK STUDIO CHOSEN FOR LAUNCH OF NEW HISPANIC CHANNEL
Soraya Menchaca
(Burbank, CA) Loyal Studios has entered into an agreement with Compralux –the new Luxury home shopping channel for the Hispanic market – to produce all of their broadcast content. Compralux is a new on-air shopping channel targeted to the growing under-served Spanish speaking population. Steven Zale of Compralux noted that, “Loyal Studios was chosen because of the technological advantages the studio has over others we considered.” Loyal Studios has invested greatly in high definition virtual stages and backgrounds which create a realistic set such as you would see on Sports Center or CNN. Compralux offers a specially selected group of products such as jewelry, skin care, and other popular catagories—which are carefully selected for this market.
Loyal Studios has developed a complete in-house production factory for Compralux, which takes each show from the creative start through production into finishing and finally uploading the shows to their ultimate destinations. Bob Bekian, president of Loyal Studios, says, “The technology we invested in over the last year is now being utilized by our clients, enabling them to be much for efficient, as well as save thousands of dollars.”
Onsen Skin Products
Many think the time has come for this type of channel to emerge, as the fastest growing demographic in the United States gains increasing buying power and influence. Designer jewelry from Swarovski, Rolex watches, and skin care products from Onsen are all featured in Compralux shows. Mexican television host and fashion expert Soraya Menchaca has been cast as the anchor for the show, and will include special guests in her segments.
Compralux can be reached at www.compralux.com, and Loyal Studios can be reached at www.loyalstudios.tv.
Loyal Studios Logo
BURBANK STUDIO VOWS TO KEEP PRODUCTION IN CALIFORNIA.
Charlize Theron behind the scenes on “Prometheus”
(Burbank, CA): Television and feature film production has been defecting from their traditional roots in California to other states in order to take advantage of attractive tax credits and other incentives. This has caused a slowdown in all levels of businesses associated with production; from camera operators to caterers.
Star Wars Speeder Bike on Loyal Studios Burbank green screen.
Producer and studio owner, Bob Bekian, has just finished an extensive re-modeling of his Loyal Studios location in Burbank, incorporating the latest technical tools into his facility in order to provide a reduced cost to producers. “We are a leader in Green Screen technology, and have installed one of the most advanced 360 degree lighting systems in our industry,” Bekian says. This allows for very quick set-ups in our studio, saving an average of 20% on preparation time, which leads to more shots completed during the day.
Jaeger suits from “Prometheus.”
Another important feature the studio has developed is a fully-integrated control room with the studio. This allows for editors and file managers to work in tandem with the camera operators to assemble and edit footage immediately during a day in the studio, allowing for immediate revisions and notes. “We have incorporated the latest HD storage and file management technology into our facilities so that producers can reduce costs and keep production value high.” The strategy is paying off with several of the big studios turning to Loyal Studios to augment their production slates, recently Pacific Rim, Movie 43, and Prometheus have all shot sequences at Loyal Studios.
For more information about Loyal Studios, visit loyalstudios.tv
For more information on Bob Bekian, visit his website here.
LOYAL STUDIOS PRODUCES SEQUENCES FOR LEGENDARY PICTURES’ “PACIFIC RIM”
Legendary Pictures
“Pacific Rim” is scheduled
for release summer 2013
(Burbank, CA) : Legendary Pictures summer blockbuster, Pacific Rim, will tell the story of humanity fighting against an alien attack that threatens Earth’s existence. “Giant robots piloted by Humans are deployed to fight off the menace.” – (IMDB)
Behind the scenes with the spacesuits from “Pacific Rim”
It is an epic production that utilizes hundreds of visual effects shots in order to create the giant monsters and environments in the story. Warner Brothers and Legendary called on Bob Bekian’s high tech Digital HD studios in Burbank to provide the production elements for several sequences. The shots called for the use of Bekian’s pre-lit green screens with specialized lighting and monitoring in order to do pre-visualization of how the sequence will look after post production.
“We have designed our facilities to use the latest technology in order to produce incredible images that tell compelling stories,” Bekian said. The sequences shot at Loyal Studios employ the ARRI Alexa camera system. The studio’s integrated control room that feeds the HD files into an array of technology does everything from immediately replacing the green screen background with various sample digital “plates,” to uploading the files to off-site Producers via a high speed internet connection.
Loyal Studios HD Engineer Hector Luken with Guillermo Del Toro at the Burbank
High-Tech Facility
Guillermo del Toro directed the sequences, including one with renowned NFL quarterback, Terry Bradshaw. “We love working with Legendary Pictures and especially Guillermo Del Toro,” Bekian adds. “He is a visionary director, and Legendary Pictures continues to produce incredible films that continually push the industry’s bar of excellence.”
For more information about “Pacific rim,” click the link.
Legendary pictures, visit Legendary Pictures
For info about Bob Bekian and Loyal Studios, visit www.bobbekian.com
LOYAL STUDIOS PRODUCES GERARD BUTLER IN “MOVIE 43”
Gerard Butler Behind the scenes at Loyal Studios in Santa Monica
(Santa Monica, CA): The Farrelly Brothers’ long anticipated comedy, “Movie 43” (a.k.a “Truth or Dare”) is being released nationwide on January 25th after a 24 month production schedule. The movie is “a series of interconnected short films following three kids as they search the depths of the Internet to find the most banned movie in the world.” –IMDB
An edited version of Gerard Butler’s character complete with visual effects
Relativity Media claims the honor of releasing this collected master piece featuring the largest ensemble cast in film history. The movie consists of 12 different story lines directed by 12 different directors such as Steven Brill, Rusty Cundieff, James Duffy, and Elizabeth Banks.
Gerard Butler plays an angry, foul-mouthed Leprechaun in a hilarious sequence directed by Brett Ratner.
Director Brett Ratner and Gerard Butler behind the scenes at Loyal Studios
“The project lets us see a different side to Gerard Butler that we don’t normally see in his leading man roles,” says Loyal Studios Producer, Bob Bekian.
With make-up provided by Greg Nicotero (“The Walking Dead“), Butler was transformed into a character that is strikingly believable.
“We shot the sequences of Gerard Butler in our high definition green screen stage in Santa Monica using the Panavision Genesis system co-developed by Sony,” Bekian added. “The camera records the highest quality HD files electronically and as a result, is very close to the look of film.”
An edited scene of Gerard Butler from “Movie 43” released by Relativity Media
Bekian has high tech studios in Santa Monica and Burbank, and uses the facilities to produce television, commercials, and feature films, as well as web projects, and music videos.
For more information about “Movie 43,” visit IMDB
For more on Loyal Studios, visit www.loyalstudios.tv
For more information on Bob Bekian’s projects visit www.bobbekian.com
DODGE TO PROVIDE ALL VEHICLES FOR TELEVISION PILOT
(Burbank, CA): Chrysler Dodge has jumped into the highly anticipated show, “Venice 13,” and agreed to provide vehicles in many aspects of the show. The one-hour crime drama, currently shooting in Los Angeles, CA, tells the true story of the highly successful undercover precinct 13 in Venice California. “We are very enthusiastic about the integration of Dodge and Chrysler into the show,” notes Executive Producer Bob Bekian. “Dodge has a brand that is very popular in the demographic that the show speaks to, and the vehicles being incorporated into the show are exciting.”
Dodge Challenger
The Dodge Challenger and Charger SRT8 will both be featured as prominent “Hero Cars” and the Dodge sprinter van is converted into a high-tech mobile crime lab. “We modified the performance on the Challenger to increase the horsepower and add some Hollywood tricks,” Bekian adds.
Mobile crime lab in a Dodge Sprinter van
Based on a true story, Precinct 13 in Venice has been very successful in bringing down several criminal operations in L.A. including a well publicized infiltration and apprehension of an Al-Qaeda cell which was planning on shooting down airplanes at LAX. The Precinct is a division of the National Terrorism Advisory System and is integrated with most of the major United States law enforcement agencies. Precinct 13 is known as very effective, and highly secretive unit consisting of agents work deep undercover often for several months before apprehending their target. “The fact the Dodge is willing to provide the vehicles in the show helps to legitimize the project, and we are very happy about the co-branding agreement,” added JoJo Ryder, Co -Executive Producer.
CANON UNVEILS THE NEW C-500 CAMERA
Body paint demonstration shot in time-lapse with the Canon C-300 at Loyal Studios
The new Canon C-500 system set-up for a hands-on demo at Loyal Studios
Burbank (CA): On September 24th, Canon’s latest high definition camera, the Canon C-500, made a special appearance at Loyal Studios in Burbank, California. Producer, Bob Bekian, hosted a “Mini NAB” at Loyal’s high tech studios, bringing together Canon, Band Pro, Pro HD Rentals, Loyal Studios, Edgewise Media, Comtel Pro Media, Codex, and Lacie collaborating together to help showcase Canon’s line of cinema production equipment. The event was attended by over 400 production professionals who were eager to try out the Canon C-500 Camera system which was on display for a hands on demonstration along with Canon’s top people as well as support teams from all the Companies involved.
“We are on the front line of professional production, and Canon cameras and lenses are one of the most frequently used tools in our pre-lit studios and HD rental company,” said Bob Bekian, President and CEO of Loyal Studios and Pro HD Rentals. “Canon has really revolutionized HD quality production by developing a line of products which offer cinema quality at a price that is affordable.”
Bob Bekian being interviewed about Canon HD Video equipment and the virtual sets available at Loyal Studios
The Canon C-500 follows in the path of the C-300, which offers a film-quality sensor, and the ability to attach the popular canon EF lenses to their systems. The popular DSLR Canon cameras like the 5D mk III were the”start of a revolution”
Bekian noted.
Stephanie Franz, Canon Regional Account Manager was excited to be a part of the evening. “This was a fantastic event which demonstrates what can happen when we bring people together in a professional and fun environment.”
Loyal Studios has been a favorite location for these types of events as it is able to combine their pre-lit studio and control room with multiple hands-on demonstration areas so industry Pros can become involved with the equipment and test it in various situations.
Incredibly, Bekian was able to produce a Pepsi Max commercial with Snoop Dogg in his Santa Monica Studios with the $1700 Canon 7D. The new C-500 and Canon’s new Cinema Lenses are designed to compete with the popular RED camera, which has an electronic image that achieves a quality very close to film. “By bringing together the best technology with the best people, we are working to keep production in California” which is a theme Bekian often promotes. “We have the history, the people, and the technology to keep professional production in our state, and we want to do our part to keep our industry and people in the state working.”
Canon C-300 Camera system with Canon Cinema lens system at the Canon EOS demo at Loyal Studios
For more information about the participating companies in this event, please visit their home pages
PRODUCER BOB BEKIAN HOSTING CINEMA EVENTS AT HIS BURBANK STUDIOS
Snoop Dogg at Loyal Studios. Snoop has produced multiple projects with Loyal Studios and is a big supporter of the effort to keep production in California.
(Burbank, CA) Producer Bob Bekian –who owns Loyal Studios in Burbank and Santa Monica– has been bringing together California production people with a series of events to showcase new high definition technology, and stimulate production in the state.
The first event was co- sponsored by Band Pro, SONY, Edgewise Media, and Bekian’s rental companies Pro HD Rentals.com and Loyal Studios.
Featuring over $3 Million worth of the latest cameras, cranes, and lenses, the event showcased live demonstrations of the SONY F65 camera system –which offers incredible resolution and is widely used on feature films and television. Over 300 industry professionals attended and were introduced to the latest technology while networking with each other.
Loyal Studios President Bob Bekian and his son, Bryce, giving away prizes at one of Bekian’s industry events.
“We want to keep production in California and keep good people working,” Bekian says. “The best talent and the major studios are all here, but we keep losing projects to other states because of more favorable tax incentives. We have created an environment where production value stays high and costs stay reasonable.”
Bekian has developed what he calls a “one stop production shop” which incorporates his pre-lit studios, 75 HD cameras, top technical people with an in-house control room and edit suite.
“We are excited about our newest expansion,” Bekian adds, “which incorporates a Newtek Tricaster system into the control room of Loyal Studios and is connected to their pre-lit greenscreen with multiple HD cameras. What this system does is create dozens of virtual sets as well as offers over 1000 digital back-plates for the greenscreen. Clients can now shoot in hundreds of realistic digital environments all within our studios without having to incur the cost of shooting on-location.”
Johnny Depp at Loyal Studios in Burbank California.
Bekian is continuing to put together events in his studios, with the next one sponsored by Canon and featuring the new Canon cinema cameras and lenses including the C-500 model.
Bekian’s Loyal Studios have been a favorite of A-List celebrities including The Black Eyed Peas, Gerard Butler, Don Cheadle, Guillermo Del Toro, Johnny Depp, and Snoop Dogg.
For more information about Loyal Studios or Upcoming events, Please visit www.bobbekian.com And www.loyalstudios.tv
R&B LEGEND KEITH SWEAT PARTNERS WITH TV/FILM PRODUCER JOJO RYDER OF UNTOUCHABLE J PRODUCTIONS.
JoJo Ryder and Keith Sweat on the set of Ryder’s documentary about Keith’s life.
R&B is filled with strong, passionate artists that challenged the status quo to bring more diverse, individual sounds to their genre. One of these successes is the New Jack Swing, innovated by mega-star, Keith Sweat. His soulful sounds have blown up radio stations since the 1980’s, and landed high on the Billboard 200 as well as #2 on the R&B charts with “Make It Last Forever.”
The Harlem-born R&B singer, and the CEO of Untouchable J Productions, JoJo Ryder, have entered into a strategic partnership to create content for television that includes a documentary featuring never-before-seen footage of Keith’s career from the 80’s and 90’s to present day. TM Mann Entertainment saw the formidable charge these two could bring, and brought them together.
JoJo Ryder directing Keith Sweat on set at Loyal Studios in Burbank.
“I feel really good about how my company and UJP are working together,” Sweat said today. “I am aware of JoJo’s success, and his understanding of the demographic of the 18-34 age group. I can’t wait for everyone to see the content that we create, baby.”
Loyal Studios in Burbank, CA, was used for the initial interviews. “Having these two great talents collaborating in our studios is amazing,” said Bob Bekian, CEO of Loyal Studios. “Keith Sweat has an incredible body of work, and JoJo Ryder is one the hottest television and film producers in Hollywood right now.”
Ryder has multiple projects in process as well as television and development deals that several major studios are involved in.
“It’s a thrill to be working with a living legend of Keith’s caliber,” Jojo said. “There are so many layers to Keith that viewers will find fascinating when the content comes out.”
It seems as if the pairing of UJT and Keith Sweat is truly an ‘untouchable’ partnership.
Keith Sweat has a book entitled “Make It Last Forever” coming out February 14th, 2013.
For more on Keith Sweat, visit The Sweat Hotel
For Producer JoJo Ryder, visit IMDB
For Bob Bekian and Loyal Studios, visit Loyal Studios.TV
PRO HD RENTALS LAUNCHES MEDIA RENTAL DIVISION
Sony SR Memory Card
Burbank, CA (June 14th, 2012) –Building on a 5 year reputation of providing high definition equipment rentals to the entertainment and production industry, Pro HD Rentals has opened a new division which focuses on tapeless media rentals. Most of the content shot in today’s production world involves recording onto reusable media devices; such as cards, drives, and discs. In the past, content was recorded onto magnetic tape, and those tapes served as “Masters” which an editor used to work with in the post production process.
The newer technology—particularly from Sony and Panasonic —involves reusable media cards, which can hold up to 64gb of information on a card about the size of a credit card. Pro HD Rentals –founded in 2005—has 75 HD camera systems as well as 3 high tech sound stages, and a full array of production equipment for rental to the professional production community. Recently, the company added a full-service post production facility, and is able to completely provide all production services to clients; including creative development and execution of finished content.
Panasonic 64G P2 card
Sony SxS 64gb Media Card
“We are always looking forward at technology to stay in pace with the rapid changes in our business,” says Bob Bekian, CEO of Pro HD Rentals. “As tapeless camera systems have gone by the wayside in our production facilities, and the newer systems require reusable media, we have developed a program to provide thousands of terabytes of storage to feature films, television, branded content, and cable clients.”
The newest tapeless technology is known as the Sony SR high definition format, which stores the highest resolution of HD information onto the media. Sony has launched a memory cartridge to coincide with the new camera systems associated with this format.
“We see a growing market for reusable media rentals, and we have the inventory and business model to meet that growing demand,” Bekian adds.
CF 64gb Card
Another very popular media format is the CF (Compact Flash) card, which are about the size of a Wheat Thin cracker. These cards can hold up to 64gb of High Definition content, and are widely used with the Canon 5D DSLR systems. Pro HD Rentals has developed online technical charts which allow anyone to preview the cards recording capabilities and functionalities to assist in determining which cards are appropriate for any given project.
Pro HD Rentals also carries an extensive line of these popular DSLR cameras as well as the lenses, monitors and other accessories this new breed of high performance cameras requires.
For more information, please visit ProHDRentals.com
BOB BEKIAN, REALTVFILMS.COM PLATINUM SPONSOR FOR THE 2012 L.A. FILM FESTIVAL
2012 LA Film Festival
LOS ANGELES (June 14, 2012) –The time has come once again for independent filmmakers and well-known industry professionals to rub elbows at one of the biggest film festivals in the nation. The 8th annual 2012 Los Angeles Film Festival kicks-off today, June 14th, for a 10 day run of screenings that include the cinematic accomplishments of over 30 countries, including music videos, short films, and feature lengths. If you want more than screenings, the LA Film Festival offers exclusive programs like Poolside chats, Coffee Talks, the Filmmaker Retreat, musical events and more. Inside the Festival Village, excited cinemaphiles, as well as Film Independent members will be able to connect with award-winning, critically acclaimed filmmakers and producers as they showcase their best work to the world.
On June 13th, the LA Film Festival –presented by Film Independent and Host Venue, Regal Cinemas LA LIVE Stadium 14—released its list of sponsors for this world-renowned event. Among those greeted with providing media coverage for the festival is RealTVFilms, with head producer Gordon Vasquez. “RealTVfilms is excited to be an official accredited media company providing coverage for its large industry fan base,” says Vasquez. “RealTVFilms Platinum Sponsor for 2012 is Producer Bob Bekian, CEO of Loyal Studios and Pro HD Rentals. Bob Bekian can provide everything you need for your film, television, and web productions.”
Bob Bekian and Samantha Gutstadt from “Filth to Ashes. Flesh to Dust.”
RealTVFilms has a long, successful history with Loyal Studios. Both share a deep, passionate love for the movies and appreciate what Film means for millions of people.
“The Los Angeles Film Festival is one of the most important places to find cutting-edge films,” says Bekian. “The variety of films and the overall organization of the event combine to create an excellent festival.”
The Festival will run from June 14th to June 24th. Most of the screenings will take place at the Regal Cinema LA LIVE Stadium 14. Boasting an expansive seating compliment of over 800 at the Regal Premiere House, the stadium also features a high quality digital projection 70 foot wide screen.
Passes and tickets are currently on sale to Film Independent members and the general public. In addition to screenings and events, Festival passes provide access to a series of networking receptions and entry to the Filmmaker Lounge, where Festival pass holders can interact with Festival filmmakers and professionals in the film community. Contact the Ticket Office for passes, tickets and event information by calling 866.FILM.FEST (866.345.6337) or visit LAFilmFest.com
Please continue to read the official Press Release on the LA Film Festival sponsors at RealTVFilms.com.
To learn more about Loyal Studios, please visit www.loyalstudios.tv
RIDLEY SCOTT’S “PROMETHEUS” USES RED EPIC CAMERAS
Charlize Theron on the set of “Prometheus” with the RED EPIC camera system.
(Burbank,CA June 2012) “Prometheus” is a 2012 Science Fiction film directed by Ridley Scott and written by Damon Lindelof. Starring Charlize Theron, Noomi Rapace and Guy Pearce, the story takes place late in the 21st century and centers on the crew of the spaceship Prometheus as they follow a star map left by an ancient civilization. The crew seeks out the origins of humanity, but discover a threat that could cause the extinction of the human race.
The film was originally in development in the early 2000’s as the 5th Alien franchise, with both Ridley Scott (“Gladiator,” “Black Hawk Down,” “Kingdom of Heaven”) and powerhouse director, James Cameron (“Titanic,” “Avatar,” “Terminator”) developing ideas for a prequel to Scott’s 1979 classic film “Alien.”
Production began in April 2010 with extensive production design , creating the aspects of the shots needed to produce a realistic future world.
Behind the scenes production image from Ridley Scott’s “Prometheus”
RED EPIC cameras configured with an 3ality Technica 3D system
Principal photography began in March 2011 with an estimated budget of $120 million. Filming took place almost entirely on practical sets on location in London, Iceland, Spain, and Scotland– including the James Bond 007 set at the world famous Pinewood studios.
The HD cameras used exclusively on the shoot were the RED EPIC systems, which are capable of extremely high 5k resolution. The cameras were set up on specialized 3D rigs and were paired with Zeiss Ultra Primes and Angenieux Optimo Lenses. “Cinematographer, Dariusz Wolski, has an incredible eye, and produced truly amazing sequences with these cameras,” noted Bob Bekian, president of Pro HD Rentals — who supplied several types of High Definition equipment for the production. “ The 3ality Technica 3D systems are really the state-of-the-art configurations, and offer the most advanced type of 3d integration possible to manage the incredible amount of digital information two RED EPIC cameras can produce,” Bekian adds.
RED EPIC system provided by http://www.prohdrentals.com
20th Century Fox’s “Prometheus” opens June 8th and will add to the list of 2012 large scale productions slated for release this summer, including the already successful “Avengers,” “Men in Black III,” and the soon to be released “Amazing Spiderman.”
For more information about “Prometheus,” visit foxmovies.com.
For more information on high definition cameras and pre- lit vfx studios visit www.prohdrentals.com and www.loyalstudios.tv
PRODUCER BOB BEKIAN LAUNCHES A HIGH-TECH AD AGENCY TARGETING BRANDED CONTENT FOR THE INTERNET
Producer Bob Bekian shooting a commercial at his Burbank studio
(Santa Monica, CA) – Producer and Media Entrepreneur, Bob Bekian, has always thought outside the box. The former professional skateboarder from Venice, California, built a group of innovative media companies that leverage technology and creativity together to deliver high quality production services to thousands of clients.
Beginning with distributing blank professional media stock, Bekian partnered with the founder of Computer Discount Warehouse (CDW) and grew that company to the largest Sony and Panasonic professional media distributor in the world. Bekian then created Pro HD Rentals, Greenscreenla.com, and Loyal Studios in the entertainment community before starting his own web channel known as RealHD.TV.
Snoop Dogg shooting an HD commercial at Loyal Studios in Santa Monica California
Bekian has produced over 800 commercials and music videos, reality show sequences, features, and internet projects in his high tech studios, and has worked with and directed some of the biggest stars in the entertainment business, including Gerard Butler, Billy Crystal, Heidi Klum, and Don Cheadle.
“We were the first to develop a turn-key production solution,” Bekian says. He was disappointed to see production leaving California because of the high cost and red tape that evolved after 100 years as the production capitol of the world. In response, Bekian began consolidating the production process into one service rather than a fragmented group of steps producers traditionally deal with.
“Bob Bekian never accepts the status quo,” noted producer Brian Grazer. “I think his combination of go-for-it skateboarding roots, and incredible creativity allowed him to see over the trees rather than getting bogged down with what people say can’t be done.”
Bob Bekian in his post production facility which offers clients a complete start to finish commercial production service.
Bekian’s Loyal Studios has become a self contained “production factory” providing a place where projects can be conceptualized, shot, edited, and then distributed very quickly and at a very reasonable cost. Clients can view progress via the internet all over the world.
“I found that with many traditional ad agencies, there are a lot of egos and fear of making a decision,” Bekian adds. “Often I would see the client on the sidelines while 10 people were debating about how to produce a commercial. That is not the way we run our creative process.” Loyal Studios uploads clients videos to dozens of web channels simultaneously, creating measurable web traffic and brand awareness for their product.
Loyal Studios Commercial production facilities include the most sophisticated camera systems and pre-lit greenscreen studios
Citing the collaborative approach his teams bring to each project combined with a one stop shop compiling the latest technologies, Bekian and his studios are on the move. The new commercial division of Loyal Studios specializes in fully produced short form branded content and commercials. Clients already include Snapple, Freeway Insurance, Jimmy Dean Breakfast Foods, Prius, Chevron and One Hour Energy products. “We intent to keep production in California by producing quality ads that are affordable and effective,” adds Bekian.
For more information about Bob Bekian, visit www.bobbekian.com
For more information about Loyal Studios, check out www.loyalstudios.tv
To see RealHD.tv, please click www.realhd.tv
LOYAL STUDIOS TEAMS UP WITH CHILDHELP.ORG TO FIGHT CHILD ABUSE
Childhelp Logo
(April, 2012 – Burbank, CA) — Loyal Studios in Burbank California has teamed up with Childhelp.org in order to continue the fight to prevent child abuse.
Childhelp.org, based in Scottsdale, AZ, has been helping children since 1959, when it was founded by Sara O’ Meara and Yvonne Fedderson who starred together on the popular sitom “The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet“.
John O'Hurley
“Seinfeld’s” John O’Hurley conducted the public service announcement for Childhelp.org at Loyal Studios in Burbank. O’Hurley –who is also known as a finalist on the hit competition show “Dancing With the Stars,” and the voice of King Neptune on Nickelodeon’s “SpongeBob Squarepants” — recently received the Ellis Island Medal of Honor for his humanitarian causes. O’Hurley didn’t bat an eyelash when he took on the responsibility to support Childhelp and everything they stand for.
Childhelp.org is a 59 year-old non-profit organization that raises money for the treatment and prevention of child abuse. The organization has its roots in Hollywood, but now operates in locations across North America, Puerto Rico, the U.S Virgin Island, and Guam. Their mission is to “meet the physical, emotional, educational, and spiritual needs of abused, neglected and at-risk children.” (www.childhelp.org) Over 3 million reports of child abuse are made every year, but this doesn’t include the cases that go unheard.
Understanding the incredible importance of protecting our children, Loyal happily donated their HD production facilities and crew in Burbank for the project.
Childhelp main office
Producer and CEO of Loyal Studios, Bob Bekian, gladly agreed to be the outlet for O’Hurley’s message with Childhelp. “Childhelp.org has really had an impact on the issue of child abuse by providing help and facilities to children in 6 different states. There is also a 24/7 hotline (1-800-4-A-CHILD) that provides crisis counselors to those in need. We support this great cause and urge others to help by going to the website and participating any way you can.”
For more information or to help, please visit www.childhelp.org Abuse hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD
To learn more about Loyal Studios, please visit www.loyalstudios.tv
Loyal Studios Co-Producing Pilot for “Loiters Squad” with Odd Future
Odd Future "OFWGKTA"
If you know what “OFWGKTA” stands for, you either know an avid texter, or you live for the thrill of soul-pumping beats. The lengthy acronym belongs to the eclectic, alternative Hip Hop group called, “Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All” from Los Angeles. Their sound joins the ranks of groups defining the music of a generation.
Tyler: The Creator
Lead by Tyler: The Creator, the group took off in 2007, but it’s not just one band. Odd Future is compiled of different subgroups like “The Jet Age of Tomorrow,” and “MellowHype.” Odd Future shows off the talents of ten eclectic artists from Los Angeles, including Syd the Kyd, Hodgy Beats, Domo Genesis, Left Brain, Jasper Loc, Mike G, and Matt Martian. The group’s success grew exponentially over the last five years with their internet fan base spilling over into crowded venues like London’s “The Drop,” Southern California’s “The House of Blues,” and the annual master-bands weekend, Coachella.
Odd Future
Loyal Studios and their production crews shot the pilot episode of Loiters Squad in the pre-lit HD greenscreen studio in Burbank California, combining SONY HD camera systems with the 1000 watt playback system that is built into the studio.
Odd Future
True to feeding the voracious viewers with slightly weird, unique, and unconventional animated or live action entertainment, Adult Swim will add Odd Future to the mix with “Loiter’s Squad.” The show will feature sketch comedies, pranks, and skits all calling Shenanigans that fans of Adult Swim have come to love.
For Bob Bekian’s projects, see www.bobbekian.com
REALHD.TV to Produce “Cars of the Stars”
Bryce Bekian and Paul Rodriguez's 454 Camaro SS
Burbank, CA (01/01/12):
The public is fascinated with celebrity life, and –as with regulars folks, cars represent an extension of a celebrity’s personality.
The "Black Beauty" from the Green Hornet Movie
From flashy to practical, classic to high tech, REALHD.TV is talking to celebrities about their cars and taking viewers behind the scenes to meet the stars and their “Rides.”
Snoop Dogg's classic 1965 Pontiac "Lakermobile"
Southern California and the “Thirty Mile Zone” is a hotbed for the automotive culture, including those of the stars of the silver screen and those working in the Entertainment industry. Producer Bob Bekian combined the two to create a unique look at the Celebrities individual expression through their cars. One of the most interesting cars is Snoop Dogg’s 1965 Pontiac Catalina with photo-realistic airbrushed paintings of all the Los Angeles Lakers with an honorary Snoop slamming a ball into the hoop (in full Laker uniform). “That car reflects my love of the Lakers and this city,” Snoop says.” I had the interior custom made with yellow and purple leather to represent my team’s colors.”
Kim Kardashian's Bentley rims with black rhinestones
La La Vasquez' Pink Range Rover
Another interesting featured car is Kim Kardashian’s blacked out Bentley with custom made black rhinestone rims. This car gives new meaning to the term “bling.” Kim’s good friend, La La Vasquez, rolls in a metallic pink Range Rover with custom wheels to match. “Then there are the understated rides– like Will I Am‘s Tesla and Don Cheadle‘s Audi coupe.” Bekian adds.
As a collector of vintage and performance cars himself, producer Bob Bekian has loved cars since his boyhood days in West L.A. “We coveted our Hot Wheels and dreamed of a day when we would own and drive cool real cars ourselves, so this project is based on a long time passion and love for the auto culture in Southern California.” An avid collector of boomer and Hollywood memorabilia, Bekian has acquired an important vintage Hot Wheels collection, which is used frequently in movies and television.
Bob Bekian's Vintage Hot Wheels collection
Bob Bekian and his 1969 Dodge Charger R/T
REALHD.TV is a new lifestyle web channel that provides short form (2-5 minute) entertainment content to computers, tablets, or mobile devices.
For more on REALHD.TV, visit realhd.tv
To learn about Bob Bekian, visit his home page at bobbekian.com
For all things Snoop Dogg, see Here.
For Loyal Studios, click Here
Loyal Studios Provides Cameras and Technical Support to “Ghost Protocol”
Tom Cruise in "Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol"
Burbank California (December, 2011): Although the blockbuster hit Mission Impossible Ghost Protocol was shot primarily with the IMAX camera system, there were several complicated sequences that relied on the HD cameras and technical systems from the innovative people at Loyal Studios and Pro HD Rentals.
Tom Cruise Behind the Scenes with Brad Bird
Director Brad Bird comes from an animation background, and is noted for meticulously story-boarding every shot in the Movie–sometimes going through several revisions before achieving his vision of how the final sequence is to be shot. “Our teams worked with SkyDance Productions and Bad Robot to develop POV (point of view) cameras which were used extensively throughout the picture,” said Bob Bekian of Loyal Studios. “We were very excited and honored to work with Tom Cruise, Brad, and their teams on this project to help to bring the story to life.” Many of these camera systems were used to pre-visualize the scenes and make adjustments to the action and lighting before the actual take was recorded on the IMAX system. This strategy helped to develop the complicated, expensive action sequences into what the viewer sees on the screen.
The movie was shot in Budapest, Moscow, Dubai and Vancouver which was made to look like Bangalore.
Tom Cruise on the Berj Khalifa Tower in "Mission Impossible : Ghost Protocol"
One of the most exciting sequences involves Tom Cruise scaling the tallest building in the world known as the Berj Khalifa in Dubai. “We provided specialized cameras and lenses that were used to capture some of this amazing footage, and Tom was very respected by the crew in his willingness and ability to do many of the complicated stunts himself,” Bekian added.
Paula Patton of "Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol"
Another challenge was to capture the action sequence involving the BMW supercar known as the “Vision.” Obtaining this epic shot caused Bird and his crew to think creatively in order to overcome a number of issues. Many types of cameras were used throughout the car sequences, including the workhorse Canon 5D DSLR Camera system.
For more on Mission Impossible Ghost Protocol, visit the Mission Impossible home page.
For more about Loyal Studios, visit loyalstudios.tv
About Bob Bekian, visit bobbekian.com
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