Possible John Naka Documentary - Work in Progress

Graydon

Let us know if you get more info on the documentary from USC. Could have been a student piece for a class or final project. It would be interesting to see what direction it was approached from, what was the focus of the piece.

I still believe there is a place for a well shot and edited piece on Naka and his direct students in relation to the beginning and continuing focus of bonsai in America.

I'm amazed that you know more about this project than American bonsai enthusiasts, especially ones in California.

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Joanie

Who watches community TV? Our cable system offers 200+ stations or some ridiculous thing like that.

If it isn't available on the internet or to clubs, there is still a great need for a good film on John Naka. And John's students, who are amazingly diverse and very loyal.

Joanie

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Ian_Homer

As requested, I managed to split this thread to it's own title - not quite in the right place, but hey, it was my first attempt.

This looks like a very interesting project and I look forward to reading more.


Regards,
Ian.

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farlinzee

Yes, The point that Mike Salas makes about it being short may mean that there is still work that needs to be done.

Of course Naka travelled and his influence knew no bounds. Perhaps a global perspective with contributors shooting dv or whatever is a worthy consideration.

Perhaps we could consider this as a project that encompasses all of the bonsai individuals and communities that Naka touched.

It could be a youtube channel that is devoted to this idea and is devoid of editorial bias.

Any thoughts

cheers

Lindsay

Graydon

I like your thoughts Lindsay. Sometimes I think to traditional as related to media. I saw a project like this being geared to a traditional distribution method of hard copies playable in machines not segments hosted online. I guess you would be the one to demonstrate that an online method really does get the word out (and you have done that for sure). There are still countless people in my bonsai society that have never seen a World of Bonsai segment as they do not spend much if any time online. I would still like to reach those people as well.

I agree with trying to follow John's international reach. It would be a disservice not to include that part of John in any project done.

I am preparing for a hectic few weeks with a current project. I may not check online often. If progress with this discussion is made would someone please PM me or email me and let me know?

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farlinzee

Graydon, Your point is taken that online is a great new medium for video but that it's reach is not all encompasing. It can't be denied that watching wonderful images on a small computer screen does not compare to a full resolution large screen.

The youtube possibility is one thing but it would always be a low res collection of clips.

John Naka's story would make a wonderful 1 hour special. In Australia the main public broadcaster produces a series called Australian story. It presents well conceived stories of ordinary Aussies who have led extrordinary lives. Is there an American counterpart? Maybe we could convince them to entertain this idea.

I'm a big fan of being in the right place and capturing what's happening so Joanies idea of being at the October convention when many of the significant contributors will be present gives a wonderful opportunity for efficient interview capture.

Follow that with a few days of shooting relative bonsai around southern california and the bounty is in the bag. I could conduct Aussie interviews to give a coalition of creativity element.

It could be really simple. Then i would be honoured to package it.

Cheers

lindsay

farlinzee

I've had contact with Gabrielle Brick who did a Naka tribute video piece for her Masters at University in May. She is endeavouring to complete the project at present and will keep me informed.

Cheers
Lindsay

Scottlikebonsai

A concept alike to Australian story is a perfect idea. That context would definitely do the subject matter justice...keep us informed as I and many others (I would assume) would be more than happy to contribute funds to see this endeavour followed through.

Scotty

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Graydon

I will be ending my current partnership with the video production company in September so my hope of using one of those cameras is pretty much out the window. I am hoping I don't jinx things but it looks like I have secured a great HD camera with a boom mic and wireless lav for 2 weeks in October. One of my customers has agreed to loan me the gear for shooting interviews (thanks Steve!).

Now comes the hard part - I only have 10 to 14 days maximum in California and I have plenty to do on my plate. I was trying to slate time at Evergreen Gardenworks to lend Brent a hand (and learn some stuff). I also wanted to visit Jim Gremell at his nursery but Jim let me know he will be vending at the GSBF so perhaps I catch him there. Joanie - let's chat and start to build a list of people attending that need to be interviewed. I will also be looking for someone to ask the questions as I will have my hands full running camera and riding audio levels.

If I don't work much of October the chances are I won't have much work lined up for November. That can be good and bad but I'll take my chances as I really feel it is important to make this happen.

Jump in people - now is the time to give input.

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