the Schism movie blog

Schism: now on DVD and Streaming at IndieFlix

2011-01-18T22:09:00.000-05:00

We'd like to share an exciting update with you regarding our first feature film "Schism". We're happy to announce a new distribution partnership with IndieFlix where the film is officially debuting today on their site. IndieFlix will carry our preferred final cut on DVD (with optional subtitles) and you can Stream the movie there as well. Movie critic Roger Ebert and the New York Times recently weighed in on the IndieFlix "Festival in a Box" concept so we're thrilled about the opportunity to get "Schism" in front of more people.

IndieFlix distributes award-winning and festival favorites. They're a next generation, online independent film distribution and discovery site providing open source networking, marketing, educational and business opportunities as well as technology and marketing support for its filmmakers, festivals, sponsors and audience. If you're a fan of independent film we highly recommend you check out their site.

Aside from our own online store (where we receive the highest percentage profit per sale), we've had a distribution deal through Passion River Films since April 2010, and you can buy or stream the film over at Amazon also if you so choose. If you haven't seen "Schism" yet there are a lot of options out there for you now.

DVD SALE!

2010-11-25T13:53:00.001-05:00

All the stores are slashing their prices and so are we! If you buy a DVD of our last movie “Schism” directly through our online store you will save even more money now.

We’ve cut all our prices 20% which means, depending on the package you buy, you can come away with the movie for as low as $8 (+ shipping) and pay a lot less than you would at Amazon! Every DVD sold through our store helps us directly with the costs on our upcoming movie “There Are No Goodbyes”. It’s a win-win!

http://store.schismmovie.com/

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

Download and Listen: PBS Radio Interview

2010-11-21T19:54:00.001-05:00

Hi Everyone,
We now have the PBS Radio interview that John C. Lyons (writer/director "Schism" and "There Are No Goodbyes") did a couple months back available for download. Click here and have a listen!

PBS Radio interview this Sunday (10/24 @ 4PM)

2010-10-18T19:51:00.003-04:00

Hello everyone,

It's been awhile. We hope you're all doing well. A few months back John C. Lyons, the writer/director of "Schism", sat down with Tom Pysz of WQLN/PBS to record an in-depth radio interview on the movie from start to finish. We're happy to report this interview is, in fact, running Sunday 10/24 at 4PM on the station, streaming live online, and will be available for download soon after. We hope you get a chance to tune in sooner or later.

Go to http://www.wqln.org/wequestion for more information on Tom's show and to download the interview after it runs.

To listen live at 4PM, just go here: http://www.wqln.org/main/radio/wqlnradio.asx or if you live in the Erie area tune into 91.3 FM.

Thank you once again to Tom and everyone at the station for their support!

National Institute on Aging ADEAR Center Library update

2010-08-17T18:12:00.002-04:00

Today we received an email from Trammell Maury the librarian at the National Institute on Aging's Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral Center. Trammell requested a copy of "Schism" earlier this year for review and we are happy to report the movie is now listed in the NIA ADEAR resource library. Trammell said Schism "is a powerful docudrama, and I hope that our public online database will draw more attention to it as a useful resource." This online database is a national resource for caregivers and professionals as well as for the general public. This is a great honor and we'd like to thank Trammell and everyone at NIA ADEAR for their support.

PBS Radio photo

2010-08-10T23:51:00.000-04:00

Here's a photo from writer/director John C. Lyons' visit this past Friday to the PBS radio program "We Question and Learn" hosted by Tom Pysz. The interview is expected to air (and be made available online) by the end of the month. The 30-minute interview focused on Lyons' first feature film "Schism" from conception to distribution. Thanks to Mr. Pysz and everyone at WQLN for their support!

Resources for Families

2010-08-09T00:23:00.001-04:00

We received a message this week from Rachel Davis who runs a great blog site called RadiologyDegree.com. She recently posted the "Top 50 Online Resources for Families Coping With Alzheimer’s" and we wanted to share them with you as well. Thank you, Rachel!

PBS Radio interview coming soon...

2010-08-01T16:22:00.002-04:00

This Friday independent filmmaker John C. Lyons ("Schism" and the upcoming "There Are No Goodbyes") will be the guest on "We Question and Learn" with Tom Pysz. The interview will be taped at the PBS studio in Erie, Pennsylvania (WQLN Radio 91.3) and will air in the coming weeks. Once we have the air-date we will post it here and it will be available online as well.

Schism DVD packages: Now only $8/$16/$20!

2010-07-25T17:21:00.000-04:00

A year has passed since we released the "Schism" 2-Disc Special Edition DVD set and launched our online store at http://store.schismmovie.com/. To celebrate we've slashed prices by 20%! If you've held off on buying the movie this is the perfect opportunity to save yourself some serious cash and support the filmmakers behind "Schism". These are the best prices you'll find anywhere:

Single-disc Limited Edition now only $8*
While supplies last. 2008 promotional DVD of the film features a longer cut of the film; however, there are no extras on this disc. Region Free DVD plays in any country.

2-Disc Special Edition DVD set now only $16*
Loaded with over 2 hours of extras and featuring the 2009 final cut of the film. Region free DVD plays in any country.

"Schism" Double-Pack now only $20*
Both the "Schism" Special Edition 2-disc DVD set and the "Schism" Single-disc Limited Edition DVD (while supplies last) at a drastically discounted price.

You order will help offset the costs of producing the film and will also help with the costs of our next film "There Are No Goodbyes" which continues production in the U.S. at the end of this year.

* plus shipping and sales tax (PA residents only)

It's Time for a Breakthrough

2010-07-15T17:42:00.000-04:00

Dear friends,

Alzheimer's disease steals the future from millions of Americans. It robs spouses of their companions and children of their parents and grandparents; it erodes the health and financial resources of caregivers.
I just signed a petition calling on Congress to make Alzheimer's disease a national priority. Will you add your voice?

http://www.alz.org/petition

Your signature will be delivered to Congress on September 21, 2010 World Alzheimer's Day.
Together, we can make Alzheimer's a national priority.

Not enough Netflix Saves for Schism yet...

2010-06-10T20:11:00.003-04:00

John and Terry in the early days of promoting Schism: April 2008 (!)

It's been about a month and a half since we began our "Save Schism to Your Queue" Netflix campaign. Friends, family, and fans have been very helpful in getting the word out and our Netflix Queue and Ratings numbers up. Unfortunately, we found out just this afternoon the Queue Saves are apparently not high enough yet. From Mat Levy our partner at Passion River Films:

"...I spoke to our Netflix buyer about your film and he said that while your queue is not bad, it is still not up to par yet with what they would see acceptable for a buy. Which means, you are CERTAINLY on the right track, but need to keep blasting the link in order to reach their queue minimum."

We've been working our tails off to get the word out. It's a constant battle, and we have no idea how many people have actually Saved to their Queues and how many more we need. Netflix doesn't share that information. Pretty frustrating. We're going to come up with new ideas and start fresh again in the next week or so with promo (while staying focused on writing the script for our next feature "There Are No Goodbyes" and working our day jobs).

Making a movie is just the first step. Stamina is key in this game. Would you like to help? Drop us a line.

UPDATE: Highlights from Alzheimer's Association report

2010-05-19T09:35:00.000-04:00

If current trends continue, Alzheimer’s will cost the United States $20 trillion over the next 40 years. It will cost $172 billion to care for people with Alzheimer’s in 2010 alone—and that number may increase to $1.08 trillion in 2050. The report examines two hypothetical treatments and their impact on both people living with Alzheimer’s and the costs of their care:

A potential treatment delaying the onset of Alzheimer’s by five years (somewhat similar to the effectiveness of anti-cholesterol drugs in preventing heart disease) could lead to 5.8 million fewer Americans living with Alzheimer’s in 2050, and it would save Medicare and Medicaid more than $42 billion in 2020 and as much as $362 billion in 2050.

A potential treatment slowing the progression Alzheimer’s (somewhat similar to treatments for HIV/AIDS and several cancers) could result in far fewer people with Alzheimer’s disease reaching the severe stage when care demands and costs are greatest. This type of treatment would save Medicare and Medicaid more than $34 billion in 2020 and $180 billion in 2050.

To read the full report, go to http://www.alz.org/Trajectory

Changing the Trajectory of Alzheimer's Disease: A National Imperative

2010-05-18T09:36:00.000-04:00

On Wednesday, May 19, the Alzheimer's Association will be releasing a new report called, "Changing the Trajectory of Alzheimer's Disease: A National Imperative," which examines the current projections and costs associated with the Alzheimer crisis, as well as what Medicare and Medicaid savings are possible if disease modifying treatments were available.

This report will be unveiled at a Congressional briefing taking place in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, May 19 at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time.

We hope to use the findings of this report to call attention to the need for a national strategic plan to address the Alzheimer crisis and urge support of the National Alzheimer's Project Act.

If passed, this act will create a National Alzheimer's Project Office and an inter-agency Advisory Council responsible for developing a national plan to overcome the Alzheimer crisis.

Media coverage of this story will air on Wednesday's CBS Early Show. Please consult your local TV guide for listings.

Sincerely,
Your Friends at the Alzheimer's Association

New interview with filmmaker John C. Lyons (The Spectator)

2010-05-02T20:08:00.002-04:00

Thank you to Alice and The Spectator for their coverage and support!

In this interview we talk about Schism, Passion River Films, Netflix, and our next movie "There Are No Goodbyes"...

Here's the interview:
http://www.eupspectator.com/a-e/lyons-film-debuts-on-netflix-1.1437059

Netflix Information and Distribution Partnership!

2010-04-18T20:06:00.004-04:00

ALZHEIMER’S MOVIE “SCHISM” DEBUTS ON NETFLIX

DISTRIBUTION PARTNERSHIP WITH PASSION RIVER FILMS

CLICK HERE to add the movie to your Netflix Queue!

Erie, PA, April 20^th, 2010 – Lyons Den Productions is proud to announce they have partnered with Passion River Films to assist in the distribution and marketing of their feature film “Schism”. As a result of this partnership “Schism” will be available next month through Netflix, the top DVD movie rental service. Over the past two years “Schism” has won awards and played in venues from coast to coast. Shown from the perspective of the afflicted this dramatic film tells the story of one man's descent into the world of Alzheimer's dementia.

Of the film’s continued success, writer/director John C. Lyons said, “Hard work and perseverance have gotten us to this point, but now it’s truly in the hands of the consumer as the next four weeks are absolutely crucial for the film. Simply by adding “Schism” to their queues, Netflix customers across the country will not only determine the longevity of “Schism” in the rental market, but help us greatly with retailers and educational communities as well.”

Mathew Levy, Manager of Acquisitions and Marketing at Passion River Films said “We are excited to partner with Lyons Den Productions and their film “Schism”. It is an important story to be shared about the heart-wrenching effects of our loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease.” In addition to the rental market, Passion River will focus its efforts on a marketing campaign for “Schism” geared towards libraries and other academic outlets in the US and Canada. Based on demand through Netflix and in these initial markets the focus will then expand to wholesalers that supply major retailers.

ABOUT SCHISM - The 50-day production was shot at several locations in the Erie PA-area including Brevillier Village, an operational nursing facility. Past screenings have included the Edinboro Film Series, Guelcher Film Series, Zero Film Festival Los Angeles (“Purple Heart Award”), Director’s Chair Festival NYC (“Best Actor”, “Best Screenplay”), and Spirit Quest Film Festival (“Best Narrative Feature”). “Schism” was written and directed by John C. Lyons, produced by Dorota Swies and John C. Lyons, and stars Terry T. Smith, Don Kirsch, and Ruth Thoma Andrews. More information: www.schismmovie.com. IMDb: www.imdb.com/title/tt1310664.

ABOUT PASSION RIVER FILMS - Passion River specializes in film marketing and DVD distribution for unique documentaries, foreign movies, independent films and special interest titles to retail stores and libraries nationwide. Their non-exclusive film distribution business model allows producers to self-distribute their films as a way to reach major retailers and a wide audience. They also book films and talent for public performances and speaking events on college campuses across the country. For more information about their new films and events, as well as their film distribution seminars and movie marketing workshops, visit: www.passionriver.com.

SCHISM: COMING SOON TO NETFLIX!

2010-04-13T00:09:00.000-04:00

The process has taken a bit of time, but we will be listed on Netflix VERY SOON and will be calling on all of you for your assistance in helping us get the word out and load up everyone's queues with "Schism"! More information on the way...

Lyons Den Productions to announce distribution partnership!

2010-03-06T15:19:00.001-05:00

The paperwork has been signed and we are almost ready to announce a new distribution partnership for "Schism"!

Very soon you will all be able to add the film to your NETFLIX queues!

Keep watching...

The Film Chair reviews "Schism" Special Edition DVD!

2010-02-01T23:12:00.001-05:00

Thanks to Dan at The Film Chair for the nice words about the final cut of the film!

Read the review here: http://www.thefilmchair.com/wordpress/index.php/2010/02/01/schism-dvd-review/

And have a look around the site; he's got some great entertainment bits there!

"Schism" now available on Amazon Video on Demand!

2009-12-05T21:43:00.002-05:00

"Schism" is now available at Amazon Video on Demand! You can stream the final cut of the film online or download it. 7 Day Rentals are $2.99 or you can Download for $9.99. You can find all the details here.

More information:

Rental rights: 7 day viewing period, play online or download to one location. Purchase rights: No time limits. Play online and download to 2 locations. Compatible with: Mac and PC online viewing, Windows PC download, TiVo DVRs, Sony BRAVIA Internet Video Link, Roku player, compatible portable video devices.

Alzheimers: Experimental drug offers new hope for patients (article)

2009-12-01T08:48:00.000-05:00

Alzheimers: Experimental drug offers new hope for patients

article from the Pittsburgh Post Gazette:

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09333/1017096-114.stm

HOLIDAY DVD SALE NOW THRU 12/31!!

2009-11-18T09:00:00.001-05:00

You won't find prices this low on Amazon or any other outlet! Buy directly from us and save!

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

Offer ends December 31, 2009.

Who says a movie about Alzheimer's won't play to all-ages?

2009-11-14T17:51:00.000-05:00

Check out the short video below. As far as we know this is the first YouTube review of "Schism". Thanks "kiiryy" for your kind words!

Have a video review of "Schism" to share with the world? Send it our way!

DVDFuture reviews new "Schism" Special Edition DVD!

2009-11-03T11:12:00.000-05:00

DVDFuture "Schism" DVD review here:
http://dvdfuture.com/review.php?id=1501
""Schism" is a fine indie drama that deserves your attention, and this two-disc special edition pays the film much respect."

purchase DVD here:
store.schismmovie.com

Thank you, DVDFuture!

DVDTalk reviews new "Schism" Special Edition DVD!

2009-10-30T07:57:00.000-04:00

"Schism" DVD review here:
http://www.dvdtalk.com/reviews/38852/schism
"Despite its low budget, Schism works really well thanks to some rock solid direction and a few really impressive performances." and "...this is a pretty compelling piece of independent movie making, and Schism is an entirely worthwhile effort."

purchase DVD here:
store.schismmovie.com

Thanks DVDTalk!

A second "Schism" Q&A video goes online

2009-10-25T16:11:00.000-04:00

"Schism" panel at the Edinboro Film Series
Edinboro University - April 17, 2008

Cast, crew, long term care and Alzheimer's professionals discuss the involvement of long term care facility Brevillier Village and the residents who were extras in the film.

*This excerpt is taken from one of the extra features on the 2-Disc Special Edition DVD set of "Schism" available now at store.schismmovie.com

Two awards from Staten Island and new YouTube video!

2009-10-18T19:13:00.001-04:00

NEW AWARDS!

"Schism" just won BEST ACTOR (Terry T. Smith as "Neil") and BEST SCREENPLAY awards earlier today at the Director's Chair Film Festival in Staten Island, NY! Thank you so much to Kimbra and her staff, those who attended the screening, and a special thanks to filmmaker Pamela Sutch of Siren Tales for excepting the awards on our behalf!

NEW VIDEO!

We just posted a 5 minute excerpt from one of the Q&A sessions we held last winter at the Guelcher Film Series. This clip covers the topic of hallucinations. Check it out below!

Director's Chair Film Festival - "Schism" this Saturday at 5PM!

2009-10-13T11:40:00.001-04:00

The Director's Chair Film Festival has changed the time of our screening to 5PM this Saturday October 17th. "Schism" has been nominated for several awards at the festival:

BEST ACTOR (Terry T. Smith as "Neil")
BEST SCREENPLAY
BEST EDITING
BEST SOUND

Unfortunately we are unable to attend this screening, but if you do, please let us know what you thought of the movie and rate it anonymously at IMDb.com: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1310664/

"Schism" available at Warren Public Library

2009-10-13T11:03:00.000-04:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACTS:
Jeff Clark
Festival Director
814.723.1952
jeffclark1952@verizon.net

Joey Roy
Festival Manager
814. 726.1674
jroy@urc.com

AWARD-WINNING FILM “SCHISM”
DONATED TO WARREN PUBLIC LIBRARY

WARREN, Pa., (October 13, 2009) – Members of The Boonies International Film Festival Group recently donated a Special Edition DVD of the award-winning independent feature film “Schism” to the Warren Public Library, in honor of Rouse Estate Employees.

The film, written and directed by John C. Lyons, is the dramatic story of one man’s decent into the world of Alzheimer’s dementia and has been praised by critics, audiences, and care professionals for its realistic portrayal of the disease, aging, and life in a long-term care facility.

According to Jeff Clark, The Boonies International Film Festival Director, the group donated the DVD to the Warren Public Library for several reasons. “We wanted to honor the individuals in our community who work hard every day to help improve the lives of those who suffer from Alzheimer’s and their families.”

In addition, Clark explained, “Many people who wanted to view the screening held at the Struther’s Library Theater were unable to be there, so our group wanted to make the film available to the public at no charge. The two-disc special edition version of Schism includes a Q&A with Lyons, the filmmaker and the movie cast, as well as information about Alzheimer’s.

Schism” was the second film of regional interest screened in Warren. The first film screened was the internationally awarded feature film “Wellness” by filmmaker Jake Mahaffy, which was filmed entirely in Warren with a cast of local citizens.

“In the coming months, Warren County residents will have the exciting opportunity to attend more independent film screenings by local and regional filmmakers,” said Joey Roy, festival manager. “These first two screenings are an initial sampling of some of the profoundly talented artists who are a part of our community. As we get closer to the five-day International Film Festival, to be held August 23-27, 2011, we will be introducing more of these individuals to you, as well as presenting a number of national and international films. All I can say is watch the newspapers, listen to the radio, check for Facebook notes, Twitter tweets and other new technologies to read all about it!”

According to Clark, the Film Festival Group is currently developing a Web site and planning a volunteer meeting for those in the community who want to get involved. Another meeting will be held with regional businesses to discuss the Festival as it may apply to them. Details will be published in the very near future.

Struther's Library Theatre photos

2009-10-13T10:58:00.000-04:00

Warren PA event - Details!

2009-09-28T18:35:00.000-04:00

"Schism" FREE movie event this weekend!

Struthers Library Theatre
302 West Third Avenue
Warren, Pennsylvania 16365
(814) 723-7231

3:30PM Sunday October 4th
Free movie, Q&A, reception, and DVD sale! Cast and crew members will be in attendance!

World Alzheimer's Day

2009-09-21T17:48:00.001-04:00

Warren, PA screening Sunday, October 4th!

2009-09-19T11:15:00.000-04:00

We'll post more details here once we have them. For now we just have a date: Sunday October 4th. There will most likely be a day time and evening screening and we will have the new 2-Disc SE DVD sets on sale. Cast and crew members should be in attendance as well.

LECOM Medical College promotes "schism"

2009-09-14T00:17:00.001-04:00

LECOM Promotes Inspirational Film on Alzheimer's Disease
Feature Film Depicts the Debilitating Journey of One Alzheimer's Patient

"LECOM graduate, James Lin, D.O., a fellowship trained Geriatrician for Medical Associates of Erie (MAE), Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM), and Director of the LECOM Institute for Successful Aging, will be a featured panelist for local Film Director John Lyons' film “Schism,” which will be featured at the Spirit Quest Film Festival held at the Erie Playhouse in Erie, Pennsylvania."

"Dr. Lin recommends that anyone who cares for the elderly and who wants a better understanding of the stages of this disease, should see this film."

Read the full article here at LECOM.edu

Official Selection Director's Chair Film Festival & Expo!

2009-09-13T15:17:00.000-04:00

We recently received word that "schism" has been selected for the Director's Chair Film Festival & Expo! The festival is held on Staten Island, NY - October 12-18.

We do not have any details yet of our screening. Once we do we post it here first.

*Cast and crew may be attending the festival depending on the schedule...

Spirit Quest Film Festival - Day Three pics

2009-09-06T17:59:00.002-04:00

Follow my blog with bloglovin

Spirit Quest Film Festival - Day Two pics

2009-09-05T19:39:00.000-04:00

Just won Best Narrative Feature @ Spirit Quest Film Festival!

Spirit Quest Film Festival - Day One pics

2009-09-05T01:00:00.001-04:00

SCHISM painting to be auctioned this weekend!

2009-09-01T19:18:00.000-04:00

This is very cool news. This weekend at the Spirit Quest Film Festival (September 4-6) cast member Joshua Werner ("Sam") is going to be bringing with him the original painting featured on the cover of the new Special Edition DVD sets. The painting will be auctioned off and half of the proceeds will go to the Alzheimer’s Association - Greater Pennsylvania Chapter.
24 /7 Helpline: 1.800.272.3900 www.alz.org/pa

The painting is a mixed media piece, primarily acrylics. The actual art size measures 8 1/4" x 11". The painting was meant to capture a feeling of isolation and despair. The subject matter is of an elderly man trying to piece together his life through a scatter of old photographs. Joshua was inspired to paint the piece during the filming of "schism". Werner says "Watching the story come to life through the actors was a touching experience. We shot most of the film in an operational long term care center, which made the idea for the painting all the more real in my mind. I returned home and found myself up all night doing this painting as a sort of emotional response."

It's going to be a great weekend - see everyone in a couple days!

Lyons Den Productions' Online Store now OPEN!

2009-08-30T10:20:00.000-04:00

store.LyonsDenProductions.net

NOW OPEN!

Our own online store has just gone live! You can now order the "schism" 2-disc Special Edition ($20 plus shipping), single-disc Limited Edition ($10), and SE+LE Double Packs ($25) directly from the source: store.LyonsDenProductions.net.

We expect to start shipping orders that include the NEW Special Edition next Tuesday 9/8/09 when the set officially releases.

Remember you can also purchase the SE and LE DVD's at Amazon.com. We will be announcing more sources soon!

more Spirit Quest Film Festival details...

2009-08-23T11:48:00.000-04:00

The Spirit Quest Film Festival (Sept 4-6, The Erie Playhouse, Erie PA) has just announced it's complete line-up of features and shorts and we are working on some more details of the "schism" screening Opening Night of the festival! Order your tickets here (tickets will also be available at the door).

Here's how things are shaping up...we will update this post soon!

Friday September 4th:
7PM - "schism" the final cut (96 mins)

8:40PM - Question & Answer session with
John C. Lyons - writer/director "schism"
"schism" cast - Terry T. Smith ("Neil"), Don Kirsch ("Roger"), Ruth Thoma Andrews ("Martha"), Dick Ropp ("Rufus"), Charmalene Ulmer ("Tammy")
Vicky Wittuck - Vice President of Healthcare, Brevillier Village
Dr. James Lin, DO - LECOM Institute for Successful Aging
Kristen Bires - Education & Outreach Manager for the Northwest Pennsylvania Alzheimer's Association

9:00PM - schism DVD sale with cast and crew members

10:00PM - after party at Benjamin's Restaurant at the Avalon Hotel (right across the street from the Erie Payhouse)

COMPLETE FILM FESTIVAL LINE-UP:
http://spiritquest.bside.com/2009/films

"schism" now available for pre-order on Amazon!

2009-08-11T19:50:00.000-04:00

The new 2-disc Special Edition of "schism" just went online today for pre-order at Amazon.com:

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B002L0C3AM/thelyonsden0f

We will have both the 2-disc Special Edition and single-disc Limited Edition DVD’s (as well as a Double Pack containing both editions) available for purchase this week or next at the film’s website (www.schismmovie.com) in our online store.

NOTE: The Limited Edition DVD’s are in stock now while the new 2-disc Special Editions will be available through online outlets the week of September 8th, 2009. The LE version features a longer 2008 cut of the film. The SE version is the final cut with a full 2nd disc of extras.

"schism" Special Edition DVD cover and features list!

2009-08-02T22:27:00.000-04:00

We've been working around the clock to get the design and contents together for the Special Edition DVD of "schism" the last couple of months. Here is a list of what will be on the 2 DISC set - available September 4th, 2009!

-The 96 minute final cut of the film in 1.78:1 Widescreen
-English subtitles (movie only)
-Outtakes (7 min)
-12 Deleted/Extended Scenes (18 min)
-"Kirk" short film (4 min)
-Screening Q&A's with Cast, crew, Alzheimer's and care professionals from the Edinboro (31 min) and Guelcher Film Series (42 min)
-Behind the Scenes footage (23 min)
-Crew Outtakes (5 min)
-DVD sleeve and discs feature the artwork of cast member Josh Werner
-Menus feature the music of Andy Flatley

We will be taking orders VERY SOON at www.schismmovie.com! It will also be available at Amazon and other online retails outlets...

Spirit Quest Film Festival - SCHISM tickets available now for 9/4/09 @ 7PM!

2009-07-15T10:20:00.001-04:00

2009 Spirit Quest Film Festival - Event Registration by Acteva

They have a great discount on all-access passes too.

Erie, PA-area friends, this is most likely your last chance to see the final cut of "schism" on the big screen. And your first chance to purchase the Special Edition DVD set of the movie and get it autographed by the cast!

More to come....check back soon!

Rate our movie!

2009-07-08T08:11:00.000-04:00

Have you seen our movie "schism"? There are a couple easy ways to let us know what you thought:

IMDb: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1310664/

Flixster: http://www.flixster.com/movie/schismApr2008

Facebook: http://apps.facebook.com/flixster/m/770807042

Be a fan: http://www.facebook.com/pages/schism/17084163170

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/lyonsdenprod

Be our friend: http://www.myspace.com/schismthemovie

Headed to State College...

2009-07-01T22:14:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow we're heading out to State College, PA! Home of the Nittany Lions. For the first of two weekend screenings of "schism"! To those of you in the area, remember we will be at the beautiful State Theatre. Details here: http://www.thestatetheatre.org/Events/viewevent.php?id=510

We'll try and share updates from the trip(s). Hope to see some of your there!

Check out some outtakes from the movie in the previous post...

"schism" movie: DVD outtakes (teaser)

2009-06-30T18:21:00.000-04:00

schism" is a very serious film, but we definitely had a lot of fun moments while making it. These are just some of the outtakes from the Special Edition DVD for "schism". Coming Summer 2009. http://www.schismmovie.com

Summer Show 2009: "schism" chosen as the festival feature!

2009-06-08T19:20:00.000-04:00

Summer Show 2009

The State Theatre

State College, PA

Friday July 3rd and Saturday July 11th

Noon - 3:30PM

schism

short film program

q&a and reception

Tickets: $8 students, $10 adults

BUY THEM HERE

**We will be making the trek for this one folks, it's going to be a great couple of weekends! More details coming soon!

schism behind the scenes (DVD)

2009-05-24T13:25:00.000-04:00

we're combing through the behind the scenes footage shot by michael best for the upcoming "schism" special edition dvd release (late summer). thought we'd share some images with you...

Official Selection Spirit Quest Film Festival!

2009-05-09T11:33:00.000-04:00

We are very happy to announce that "schism" has been selected for the Spirit Quest Film Festival and will play a great venue, the Erie Playhouse, on Friday September 4th at 7PM!

More details coming soon...

Lancaster Area Film Festival media

2009-05-01T07:45:00.000-04:00

"We Cannes Too" (Lancaster Online)
http://articles.lancasteronline.com/local/4/236944

The Film Chair
http://www.thefilmchair.com/wordpress/index.php/2009/04/30/schism-at-the-lancaster-area-film-festival/

American Geriatrics Society newsletter mentions "schism"

2009-04-29T08:11:00.001-04:00

"Schism," Award-Winning Film Depicting One Man's Descent into Alzheimer's Disease, to be Widely Available on DVD

http://www.americangeriatrics.org/listserv/newsletter_042809.shtml

For more information about the American Geriatrics Society go to http://www.americangeriatrics.org/.

Lancaster Area Film Festival - Details

2009-04-26T00:05:00.000-04:00

When: Friday, May 2nd 2009
Where: Liberty Place
313 W. Liberty St
Lancaster, PA 17603
Time: 6pm - Doors open
6 - 7pm - Plan B plays
7pm - Films Start
Tickets: $15

"schism" will start the evening in the first block of films at 7PM. We are still working out Q&A details. If you're able to attend, please send us a message!

For more information about the Lancaster Area Film Festival go to http://www.lancasterareafilmfestival.com/

Erie Magazine is online - Leadership awards

2009-04-12T18:14:00.001-04:00

You can now check out the current issue of the ERIE Magazine online. Turn to page 19 for profiles of those chosen for generation-e Leadership awards including "schism" writer/director John C. Lyons. http://www.eriepa.com/magazine

Official Selection Lancaster Area Film Festival !!

2009-04-06T23:17:00.000-04:00

We don't know all the details yet, but we have just received word that "schism" has been selected for the Lancaster Area Film Festival! We want to thank the LAFF programmers for recognizing our film and look forward to the opportunity to share it with their audiences. More soon!

Healthcare Marketing class at Gannon University

2009-03-31T18:48:00.000-04:00

John C. Lyons (writer/director of "schism") and Kristen Bires (Education & Outreach Manager for the Northwest Pennsylvania Alzheimer's Association) will be special guests of Phil Scrimenti's Healthcare Marketing class at Gannon University this coming Monday, April 6th. After a special screening of "schism" the class will participate in a Q&A about Alzheimer's Disease and the film. We'd like to thank Mr. Scrimenti for the opportunity and look forward to talking with his class.

We are still working out the details of the next public screenings of "schism". Stay tuned.

schism's Josh Werner to attend/promote at Michigan Movie Network event

2009-03-29T17:23:00.000-04:00

"schism" on location: Karly Bender ("Kellie") and Josh Werner ("Sam") taking a break between takes

On April 4th, "schism" castmember Josh Werner, who plays "Sam" in the film and also created our awesome poster artwork, will be attending the Michigan Movie Network Event to promote the film and network with industry professionals in the Midwest. Josh will getting back to us with photos and a report in the near future. Thanks, Josh!

More information about this event:
Special attempts have been made to bring both investors and distributors to this important first-of-its-kind event. Investors are looking for opportunities to benefit from the film industry in Michigan and distributors are looking for production houses with a catalog of movie products.“There’s never been anything like this. This is an opportunity for everyone – from someone with an idea for a movie or an actress, to a bank with money to lend for a project – to come together, exchange cards and portfolios, network and get ideas off the ground,” said Alex Greene, Emmy- and Telly-award winning Creator of the children's TV program "My Bedbugs" and Executive Producer of Greenestuff Productions, one of the event’s speakers.

“This area has needed this event,” said Lew Smith, chief operating officer of Vanir Entertainment, Inc., partners with the Crofoot on the Michigan Movie Networking Event. “People have been so desperate to connect with others. This is a chance to get everyone in the room at the same time and on the same page – to grow the film industry in this state.” Smith said that from early promotion of the event, he’s already received commitments from people as far away as Traverse City, Chicago and Grand Rapids who plan to attend. Professionals from across four states have been invited. He added the Michigan Movie Networking Event is modeled after events of this type in Los Angeles, New York and Nashville.Dan McGowan, of the Crofoot, said, “This is one of those clean-everything-else-from-your-calendar events. It’s a chance to bring a hundred business cards and come back with a hundred business cards from people you might never have met otherwise.”

The Michigan Movie Networking Event is hosted by Vanir Entertainment, a Rochester Hills-based multi-media entertainment company, and the Crofoot. Vanir kicks off its contributions to the Michigan film industry in April with the debut of the “Michigan Marquee” TV show on WTVS, Detroit’s Public Television station. The weekly, half-hour “Michigan Marquee” will feature interviews with industry insiders and up-to-date reports on film projects across the state.

Announcing more SCHISM screenings soon!

2009-03-02T23:18:00.001-05:00

We've gotten word on Pennsylvania festival/series screenings of "schism" coming up soon. More details once we have them...stay tuned!

Young Erie Professionals - Award Winners

2009-02-24T13:16:00.000-05:00

yep! announces Generation-E Leadership Award winners

Twelve local individuals have been chosen as recipients of the 2009 yep! Generation-E Leadership Awards, which recognize young professionals who are paving the way for the future of Erie. Presented by Young Erie Professionals (yep!), the awards have honored dozens of individuals over the past four years who not only have chosen to live, work and play in the Erie area, but who have made a lasting impact on the region.

Click here for WJET/ABC coverage

This year’s winners are:
Alyson Amendola, Director of Communications and Public Relations, Office of Erie County Executive Mark DiVecchio
Tony Bruno, Corporate Sales Manager, Scott Enterprises
Rob Celeski, Welder and Chairman of Employees Community Service Fund of GE, GE Transportation
Matthew Cummings, Director of Marketing Communications, Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership
Jodie Gloekler, Educational Program Coordinator, Gannon University SBDC
Kevin-John Jobczynski, Celebrity Sports Artist
John C. Lyons, Co-Owner/Filmmaker, Lyons Den Productions; Information Technology Generalist, Edinboro University
Brad Moore, Marketing Manager, Center for eBusiness and Advanced IT
Christine Pennsy, Director of Communications, VisitErie
Joseph Sinnott, Esq., Mayor, City of Erie
Shelly Walker, Dance Artist (self-employed)
Beth Zimmer, Director of Talent Acquisition, Senior Consultant, J.L. Nick & Associates

The winners were chosen by a panel of nine judges representing several different companies and organizations in the area. The award recipients will be honored at the Generation-E Leadership Awards Celebratory Event on Friday, April 24, at the Bayfront Convention Center. This year’s awards celebration will have a “green” focus, and for the first time in the history of the Generation-E Awards a local company or organization will be honored for leading the way in green business practices. Those interested in event reservations, sponsorships or associated benefits can contact Rebecca Styn. For more information on the Generation-E Awards, click here.

schism : the final cut

2009-01-27T19:34:00.000-05:00

Through the final days and months of 2008 Dorota and I worked tirelessly on the edit, color, and sound design of "schism". We are very happy to report we finished the film the first week of January 2009! It comes in at 96 minutes, with end credits, and we couldn't be happier with this final cut. We just wanted to take a moment to thank everyone involved for their support over the last 3 years!

"Schism" and its cast & crew were given a Purple Heart Award at last month's Zero Film Festival - Los Angeles! We thank the festival so much for its support of the film and true independent cinema.

This isn't the end, hopefully it's just the beginning. Stay tuned.

rough translation of the La Vanguardia article: Art and Alzheimer's

2009-01-11T23:31:00.000-05:00

Here's the Yahoo! Babel Fish translation of the La Vanguardia article, I've got to warn you it's kind of rough to understand:

http://babelfish.yahoo.com/translate_url?doit=done&tt=url&intl=1&fr=bf-home&trurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.familialzheimer.org%2Fprensa%2Farticulos%2Fver%2F4213&lp=es_en&btnTrUrl=Translate

Thanks for Iñaki Lauzirika at DVXUser for spotting this link on the Familia Alzheimer site. It's pretty great to be listed in the same article with "Lovely, Still" and "Away From Her."

Anyone speak Spanish? We need your help...

2009-01-01T11:30:00.000-05:00

If you speak/read Spanish we could really use your help. There was a newspaper in Barcelona, "La Vanguardia", which contacted us via email a couple months back. They were going to do an article on the arts and the subject of Alzheimer's disease and the writer knew some information about "schism" and wanted to include it. After some back and forth I sent him photos from the movie and he has since gone silent. So today we went searching to see if we could find anything and it appears that on December 9th, 2008 the story was published. The article appears to include "schism" but we can't seem to get to the full article (PDF, JPG, or even plain TEXT) via the La Vanguardia website. Babel fish isn't much help either on translating the site's navigation.

This link leads to what appears to be an excerpt from the article:

http://buscador.lavanguardia.es/buscador/resultados/20081209/53595348129/Arte-para-no-olvidar-el-ALZHEIMER.xhtml?q=schism

Any help with this would be GREATLY appreciated. Obviously if there is an article in existence that mentions our movie we want it for p.r., translation, etc. I'm hoping there's a way to get this, preferably in image format of some kind. Thanks dear readers!

schism trailer and Q&A clips coming soon!

2008-12-17T09:23:00.000-05:00

We hope to have some new goodies online in time for the holidays. Stay tuned!

Los Angeles: schism at Zero Film Festival (Day Four)

2008-12-06T22:46:00.000-05:00

Our last day in Los Angeles included window shopping on Robertson Blvd and Beverly Blvd. Lunch at The Ivy. Walks around The Grove and Farmer's Market. A visit to Santa Monica to see the sunset/ocean at the Pier. Our adventures closed out with some delicious crepes in Santa Monica with Dennis. Definitely squeezed a lot into such a short time here and we really had a blast! More later...tired and packing.

Los Angeles: schism at Zero Film Festival (Day Three)

2008-12-06T11:47:00.000-05:00

Dorota and I were ambitious Thursday morning and got a Starline Tours package where you can get on and jump off their topless buses all around Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Downtown, etc. Today was our first day of really beautiful, smogless weather. We had some yummy Japanese pancakes near Rodeo Dr. at a new place called Fulfilled. Things didn't go quite as planned for Jimmy Kimmel Live and we instead caught a movie at the famous Grauman's Chinese Theater. This place was incredible! And even though the movie we saw, "Punisher: War Zone", wasn't award material it still completely satisfied in showing off the theater's gigantic and sound. Keep the kids away from this one, it's brutal. It's funny to return to our hotel every night and see the groupies gathered in the hallways looking for celebs. Everytime we pop in and out of the elevator they are there waiting to snap a photo of anyone. They floated around someone the other day when we were chilling in the lobby - taking photos and autographs but we didn't recognize them. Probably Zac Effron or some other kiddie star.

Los Angeles: schism at Zero Film Festival (Day Two - 3)

2008-12-06T01:52:00.000-05:00

John waits patiently for the film before "schism" to let out
streets blocked off for production
pool on the roof

Our night was capped off with a great screening of "schism" at the Downtown Independent Theater in Downtown Los Angeles. The picture and sound were great and we were very happy to play in such a cool venue. We were asked some great questions during the lengthy Q&A afterwards as well. If you saw our film at the festival please be sure and rate it at IMDb. We got to meet some great people and catch up with some old friends. Zero is a new festival, but everyone got the feeling that festival director Richard Hooban is starting something great here in L.A. and we feel very honored to be a part of its birth. We highly recommend this festival and hope to be a part of it for years to come. Thank you, Rich! After the screening we headed back to The Standard, watched a bit of the nighttime production that was filming on the blocked streets surrounding our hotel and then headed up to the rooftop club for some fresh air before we turned in. We're tired and need some rest... Back soon!

Los Angeles: schism at Zero Film Festival (Day Two - 2)

2008-12-06T01:27:00.000-05:00

special guest Dennis Widmyer
Cate Blanchett's star being installed
Yes, that's the REAL Shrek
Kodak Theater, home of the Oscars...we'll get there

We had a great time this afternoon with our host-for-the-day Dennis. He gave us a quick spin around hot spots in Hollywood, residential neighborhoods in Beverly Hills, and then we walked Melrose Ave for a couple hours. We ate lunch/dinner at the Pig and Whistle and had a snack at Pinkberry. Before we knew it, it was time to head to the Zero Film Festival for the screening of "schism"!

Los Angeles: schism at Zero Film Festival (Day Two)

2008-12-04T12:10:00.000-05:00

every time in the shower is a show
view from laptop

Got up early after plenty of rest. Above are some photos from out room at The Standard. Dennis Widmyer, filmmaker and owner of ChuckPalahniuk.net, is picking us up for lunch and we're going into the heart of Hollywood this afternoon to get oriented. "Schism" screening tonight...more later!

Friday TV Notes: We have tickets for Jimmy Kimmel Live tomorrow night (William Shatner and Ludacris-tmas are guests) and we're going to try and catch actress Cate Blanchett getting her star on the Walk of Fame.

Los Angeles: schism at Zero Film Festival (Day One)

2008-12-03T20:15:00.000-05:00

view from the sky yes, they're ice skating, surrounded by palm trees

John by Pershing Square

from the roof of The Standard

This first post from LA will be brief. We checked into our hotel, The Standard, which is a really cool place owned by a couple of people named DiCaprio and Diaz. Went exploring the sites around the hotel (which ranged from classy to a little scary) and then turned in early -- a little jet-lagged. We ate at Weiland's Underground Brewery and enjoyed the view at the rooftop club at our hotel before turning in. Met a film investor who backs big Hollywood features. Invited him to our movie. Tomorrow night is our big screening!

packing our bags for Hollywood!

2008-12-02T21:41:00.000-05:00

We've been waiting for this day for 3 years now...

Packing our bags for Hollywood and in just a couple days showing our movie in a cool theater downtown...

Watch this blog for pics, vids, and stories of the continuing adventures of "schism"!

Tickets for "schism" in Los Angeles (Zero Film Festival) -- available now!

2008-11-30T22:48:00.001-05:00

Just a reminder that "schism" is screening at the Zero Film Festival in Los Angeles this Thursday, December 4th. We are in the 8:30PM block with the short film "Nine Fourteen". "Schism" starts at 9PM and we'll hold a short Q&A following the movie.

Here's the link if you'd like to RSVP your tickets ahead:

https://zerofilmfest. withoutabox. com/festivals/event_item. php?id=21379

Thursday December 4th - 9PM
Downtown Independent Theater
251 South Main St
Los Angeles, CA 90012

We'll be there...Will you?

http://www. imdb. com/title/tt1310664

Zero Film Festival updates

2008-11-20T23:46:00.000-05:00

Here is the official Zero Film Festival program for save and/or print (PDF format). John and Dorota will be heading out to LA and attending the film festival! Watch this space for pics and vids in a couple weeks.

*If you are a critic or distributor please contact us at "info at LyonsDenProductions.net" and we will be happy to set you up with a pass to attend.

Otherwise, all the latest screening details are below:

"schism" movie premiere
Thursday, December 4th at 9PM
Downtown Independent Theater
251 South Main Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Admission is $10 (includes entry to after party)

Official Selection of the Zero Film Festival - Los Angeles!

2008-11-14T00:12:00.000-05:00

This is everything we know right now. Please share with friends, family, contacts in LA-area. We're still trying to figure out if we are going to be able to attend… Very exciting!

“schism”
Zero Film Festival – Los Angeles, CA
9PM Thursday December 4th
Downtown Independent Theater (see pics above!)
251 SOUTH MAIN ST.
LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

More info coming as we have it - check back soon!

Photos from the Guelcher Film Series (11/05/08)!

2008-11-08T14:55:00.000-05:00

We had an amazing time at the Guelcher Film Series this past week. Two well-attended screenings of "schism" and lots of great questions during our post-movie panels. Thank you to everyone who came out to support the film, our amazing panelists, the cast and crew in attendance, and the professional staff at the Mary D'Angelo Performing Arts Center - what a fantastic venue!

"schism" Makes the Grade (Showcase article/review)

2008-11-01T11:16:00.000-04:00

Click below to check out the review and preview on our screenings coming up this week!

http://www.goerie.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081030/ENTERTAINMENT0702/310309967/-1/ENTERTAINMENT07

*** out of ****!

Guelcher Film Series ticket contest!

2008-10-30T22:38:00.000-04:00

If you weren't a winner in the Erie Times-News contest for tickets to "schism" (screening next week at the Guelcher Film Series) you have one last chance for freebies! Mercyhurst College has just launched a contest of their own for the movie:

http://plato.mercyhurst.edu/pac/news/schism/schism.html

Note: Tickets are still available for the 2PM and 8PM screenings on November 5th. Order tickets by phone at 814-824-3000 or at the Mary D'Angelo Performing Arts Center box office the day of the show.

schism is now on IMDb.com

2008-10-24T18:03:00.000-04:00

It's taken awhile, but this week "schism" has been added to the Internet Movie Database: IMDb.com! If you've seen our movie, please click the link below, and rate it. Make sure to rate our movie and not the 2008 horror movie by the same name (ugh!). We would GREATLY appreciate it. Rating is anonymous and you can even type a mini-review or start a Message Board conversation as well. They're still adding info to the page so the whole cast/crew list isn't up yet. You have to create an account to rate/post, but they don't spam: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1310664/

Thanks everyone!
-John

schism - teaser poster #2

2008-10-13T00:28:00.000-04:00

featuring the artwork of castmember Josh Werner ("Sam")

Eerie Horror Fest 2008 photos!

2008-10-12T20:05:00.001-04:00

Lyons to present "Best Short" at Eerie Horror Film Fest!

2008-10-08T21:33:00.000-04:00

I have been asked to present the award for Best Short Film at the Eerie Horror Film Festival which takes place this weekend at the Warner Theater in Erie, PA. Obviously this is a great honor and I can't wait to see this year's line-up. EHFF just keeps getting better and better each year.

For those in attendance, be sure to check out our ad for the "schism" screening next month at the Guelcher Film Series as well. Now only 4 weeks away!

Guelcher Film Series - tickets onsale now!

2008-09-18T18:11:00.000-04:00

The Guelcher Film Series has just launched a new website and tickets are available as well for the "schism" screenings on Wednesday November 5th. We are really looking forward to this night!

Check it out here.

Ticket Prices
Adult: $5
Senior: $4
Student: $4
President's Card: $3 (limit 2)
Mercyhurst Students: FREE

author Chuck Palahniuk ("Fight Club", "Choke") to promote "schism" in NYC this weekend!!!

2008-08-25T21:02:00.000-04:00

Here's our BIG NEWS of the month...

This coming weekend (8/29-8/30) Chuck Palahniuk, an amazing writer and early champion of "schism", is appearing at a couple big events in New York City to promote his latest book "Snuff" and the movie "Choke" -- which we saw (and loved!) at Sundance earlier this year.

Palahniuk's readings are always a lot of fun, but one thing that will make them even more special this time around is that Chuck is taking promotional DVD's of "schism" on the road with him!

Obviously this is a huge honor. Chuck requested the DVD's as prizes for his Q&A's. Chuck has been really great to us since we finished the film and we really owe the guy. A possible future movie collaboration??!?! We wish!

So here's the info on both events straight from "The Cult" (www.chuckpalahniuk.net). As you'll see, if you can't make these events they will be online for your viewing pleasure!

Friday, August 29 – New York
7:00 to 8:00pm
iTunes “Meet the Author event” with Chuck Palahniuk and Clark Gregg
Apple Store—Soho
103 Prince Street, New York, NY 10012
*The interview, Chuck’s reading and audience Q&A will all be taped for Itunes.
No tickets are necessary for this event. It's strictly first come first serve.

Saturday, August 30 - New York
1:00 to 2:30pm
Chuck Palahniuk with author Amy Hemple and actor/director Clark Gregg at The Strand (NYC) - SOLD OUT!
828 Broadway (at 12th St.), New York, NY. 10003-4805
*View the event live on STRAND TV www.strandbooks.com/tv!

Photos from the RockErie Music Awards 2008

2008-08-25T20:30:00.001-04:00

We had a blast presenting the Favorite Rock Band award to SUPER NO. 7. Congrats to them and everyone who put the event together!

Stage and Tables pre-show

Jay Baumgardner and John chat about future projects

John thanks collaborators and intro the nominees

Announces the winners: Super No. 7

We will be back on track soon with some very cool "schism" news...

Lyons Den Productions to present at the RockErie Music Awards!

2008-08-18T22:41:00.000-04:00

Lyons Den Productions' co-owners (John C. Lyons and Dorota Swies) will be presenters in the category of "Erie's Favorite Rock Band" at this year's RockErie Music Awards. LDP, whose latest film "schism" was scored by Erie-native Andy Flatley, has been lucky enough to work with several talented Erie-area musicians on each of their film projects.

The nominees for Favorite Rock Band are:

Casting Shadows
eastave
Paper St.
Super No. 7
The Romantic Era

The ceremony is this Sunday, August 24th at the Bayfront Convention Center. 7:00 p.m. Doors open at 6:00 p.m.

http://rockeriemusicawards.com

Official Selection of the Guelcher Film Series!

2008-07-30T09:58:00.000-04:00

More details coming soon, but here is the early scoop!

Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Two Showtimes: 2PM and 8PM

Mary D'Angelo Performing Arts Center / Mercyhurst College campus
501 East 38th Street, Erie, PA

submitting schism

2008-06-02T20:10:00.000-04:00

The past couple of weeks we have really been stepping up submissions of "schism" to film festivals and contacts worldwide. We put together a nice press kit and are sending it out with the current cut of the movie as well.

The DVD's themselves are a nice, limited-run (movie only) promotional package we put together through Pacific Disc.

We're hoping to have a busy Fall and Winter lined up for screenings -- and are eagerly awaiting to hear where the film will make it's big festival debut!

Where will this journey take us? Stay tuned!

The reality of Film Festivals?

2008-05-21T08:26:00.000-04:00

This morning I wanted to share some not-so-shocking, but nonetheless disappointing, information in a recent post at IndieClub.com about the current state of film festivals and true independent films:

"Throughout the last decade, the festival landscape has been changing – in a big way. Festivals such as Sundance, SXSW, and Toronto have evolved into film market showcases that primarily show films with sizeable budgets and major celebrities. These films qualify as “indie” due to the fact that they are made by the “independent arm” of a major studio or they use alternative funding (e.g. private equity). Often the budgets of these “indie” movies are upwards of 30 Million dollars. With the exception of foreign films and documentaries, the dramatic features almost always have major celebs attached as actors or often producers/directors."

Here's the biggie...

"The majority of a big festival’s lineup is negotiated behind-the-scenes by film reps… And those blind submissions? Sorry. The unfortunate truth is that many of those films are not even looked at, especially if they aren’t sent in time to make the early bird deadline. This fact has been confirmed by a personal contact that is high up in the Submissions Dept. at a major festival. Many films are actually put into the filing cabinet unwatched (But of course, they first remember to remove the $50 check from the application)."

We're submitting "schism" EARLY to as many big fests as we can. It's bizarre to even type this, but hopefully our movie gets watched! Damn! We're confident that we have a good movie - those who have watched it from beginning to end (at this point just critics and test audiences) have all had a very positive response. Time will tell...

Thanks IndieClub for posting this. To read their entire interview with the director of the Action on Film Festival, click here.

Caring Touch Awards this Thursday

2008-05-18T20:51:00.000-04:00

The Alzheimer's Association - Greater Pennsylvania Chapter presents "A Celebration of Caring, An Afternoon of Enlightenment and Recognition" on Thursday, May 22, 11:30 am - 1:30 pm. Luncheon at The Regency at South Shore, 322 Washington Place, Erie, PA. Featuring: Melanie Titzel, MS, Co-Chair Greater Pennsylvania Board of Directors and the presentation of the "Caring Touch" Award honoring outstanding performance in dementia patient care.

Join us for an afternoon of enlightenment and recognition as you hear the touching story of Melanie Titzel's journey with Alzheimer's disease on a personal and professional level. The Caring Touch Awards are reserved for the "the best of the best" and offer you an excellent way to salute a deserving caregiver and recognize employee accomplishments This event is open to all professionals and family caregivers, and the community. For questions, please email Kristen Bires or call her at (814) 456-9200 (information from ErieBlogs.com).

John C. Lyons, writer/director of "schism", served as one of the judges for the awards this year. Each of those nominated are amazing people, this should be a great event! There will be a table setup at the event for the movie.

DVDFuture's "schism" review!

2008-05-14T14:02:00.001-04:00

Read the full review here ( B+ )

""Schism" is a touchingly tragic, poignant and moving tale that's likely to stay with you, and perhaps spark some debate, long after the credits roll. This is one film with a very loud voice, and it's begging to be seen." -- R.L. Shaffer (DVDFuture.com)

Thanks to Mr. Shaffer and DVDFuture.com for their kind words!

Rating Tally Day: Edinboro test screenings

2008-04-27T08:02:00.001-04:00

We couldn't be happier!

Dread Central reviews "schism"!

2008-04-24T23:13:00.000-04:00

DreadCentral.com just posted their review of "schism" (3.5 out of 5) check it out:

http://www.dreadcentral.com/node/26847

"Smith is amazing in his flawless portrayal of 'Neil'"

"This film has some of the most fantastic lighting I have ever seen in an independent film. We hitch a ride behind Neil’s eyes as he falls further down the mental rabbit hole, and are treated to horrific images and scenarios that are all the more effective because they are not the product of an alien presence, psychotropic drug, or sensory deprivation. No, Neil’s one way journey leaves you shaken and ultimately touched because it is concrete."

Thanks to Mr. Bostaph and Dread Central!

pics from 2nd test screening at Edinboro University

2008-04-19T01:30:00.000-04:00

we're worn out, but wanted to post some pics from tonight's test screening before we turned in. the audience both nights was great. we're estimating that somewhere between 1200 - 1300 people came out to see the movie! we're very curious to see what the anonymous exit ratings show... THANK YOU to everyone who attended and helped make it happen! this is just the beginning!

one down, (hopefully) many to go...

2008-04-18T01:40:00.001-04:00

schism's first test screening on the BIG screen!

Erie Times-News reviews "schism"!

2008-04-17T08:09:00.001-04:00

You can find the review here:
http://goerie.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080417/ENTERTAINMENT0702/804170353/-1/SHOWCASE
and on page 3 in today's Showcase section.

"A brilliant achievement"

Special thanks to critic Floyd Lawrence for the great words!

the Erie radio tour continues...

2008-04-16T22:11:00.001-04:00

John, Terry, and Dorota visited Classy 100, Country 98, and 92.9FM WXCS this morning for interviews and giveaways!

Tomorrow night's the first big public, test screening at Edinboro University of Pennsylvania! We'll be back with more soon...

WERG 90.5FM visit (Gannon University)

2008-04-12T23:26:00.000-04:00

Charmalene, John (and Dorota) at the live broadcast this morning...

"schism" FilmThreat review...

2008-04-09T18:02:00.000-04:00

FilmThreat.com: http://www.filmthreat.com/index.php?section=reviews&Id=10895
We got a 3 out of 5, considered "good" on their scale.

Stina Chyn, the critic for FilmThreat (who also reviewed our short film "Hunting Camp", which got 2.5/5) was also nice enough to add these comments in an email after the review went online:

"I think you've certainly grown as a storyteller...

The acting from the senior citizens was solid throughout...

Your film is nuanced and arresting...

I really liked those close-ups of Neil's slippers in the beginning. When one creeps down a flight of stairs, that's exactly how one would do it. Details like that matter."

Thanks to Ms. Chyn and FilmThreat for checking out our movie!

Erie Life Magazine - April 2008 issue - onsale now!

2008-04-02T18:00:00.000-04:00

John, Lyons Den Productions, and "schism" are featured in this month's Erie Life Magazine. It's available around town and through their website. Check it out!

Here's a teaser for the article: http://www.erielifemagazine.com/issues/2008-april/the-sundance-kid.php

Big thanks to Mark, Rena, and everyone at Erie Life Magazine!

"schism" teaser poster unveiled!

2008-03-31T00:06:00.000-04:00

private screening at Brevillier Village

2008-03-30T14:43:00.000-04:00

good movie eats

starting to fill in...

short Q&A afterwards with Vicky Wittuck, John C. Lyons, Jacqueline Johnson, Ruth Thoma Andrews, Terry T. Smith, and Don Kirsch

A million thanks to Brevillier Village for allowing us to film in their beautiful facility over the last couple years! This weekend we had a private screening for the residents, families, and staff. This was the first time the film has been seen by anyone outside of a few cast and crew members.