PERSONALITIES IN CHRISTIAN MEDIA AND ENTERTAINMENT
▶A CHAT WITH GIGI ORSILLO
ACTRESS SHINES BRIGHTLY FOR GOD ON & OFF SCREEN
Versatile actress Gigi Orsillo, one of the stars of the upcoming Christian comedy film, "Sleeper Agent." Inset: Gigi shares a laugh in a "Sleeper Agent" scene with comedian Leland Klassen, star of the motion picture.
▶ CREATIVE MOTION INTERVIEW
Creative Motion Online was graciously granted the opportunity to interview actress Gigi Orsillo, one of the stars of the upcoming Christian comedy film Sleeper Agent. Her life is a little bit of drama, a little bit of humor, and a whole heaping-helping serving of faith.
CM: Thanks for chatting with CM. Gigi, when did you first show an interest in acting?
GO: I began acting at the ripe ‘ole age of 2 1/2. I was in a local mall commercial, which ran at Christmas every year. It became a long-standing Tulsa tradition for locals to see that beloved commercial each year, and when a new big-wig advertising agency was hired for the mall, they looked at the old footage and shot a new fancy Christmas commercial to replace it. The people of T-town were none too happy and called in to file complaint after complaint and demand that they put it back on the air. That thing ran for almost 20 years (17 years I believe!) before they finally retired it, when a chain bought out the local mall.
CM: What were some of your earliest roles as a child?
GO: I did several fun projects as a youngster.... I think my first big audition was for young Jenny in Forrest Gump. I was called back several times and even put on hold, but by the time they shot the film almost a year later, I had aged too fast for the age of the part. Ahhh, the one that got away! “Run, Forrest, Run!” I could have nailed that one!! But in all seriousness, it was a pretty cool experience and my first introduction into the exhausting audition process of a big budget film. One of the most memorable projects I did as a kid was flying to Wales as an 11-year-old, to shoot the music video Great God, for recording artist, Carman, in a beautiful historic castle.
CM: What’s a role folks tease you about?
GO: The one childhood role my friends like to tease me about was UHF with Weird Al Yankovich, which kind of became a cult classic. They like to embarrass me and bring it up at get-togethers, that I was the 'Spatula City' girl, until they get past the people who are like, “What in the world is that...never heard of it,” to the people that are super excited and scream, “WHAT!!? NO WAY!!??” I have really nice friends can you tell!? No... I really do have the best friends, they just like to embarrass me a little.
CM: Then you become a big girl, where did your path venue next?
GO: After continuing along the acting path in my youth, with numerous Christian projects and national commercials, I went on to study communications and film at Oral Roberts University. I married my college sweetheart, Elliott, and moved to California. There I began pursuing acting on a higher scale. I continued doing commercials, but began carving out a niche as a TV host, with shows like Kids on the Move, Gamer Nation, AMC’s Date Night, JCTV’s Extreme Video Zone and Starz Channel’s Inside Look. I loved hosting and getting to exercise the improv skills I was learning at The Groundlings School, but I really wanted the opportunity to use my gifts in theatrical projects that pointed people toward Jesus.
I decided to jump in with both feet and started studying Meisner technique at Playhouse West in LA. There I really learned how to access my emotions easily and respond deeply and richly to my scene partners. It was such fun that I craved opportunities to truly stretch myself.
I remember auditioning for casting director, Beverly Holloway for the film Magdalena: Released from Shame. It was one of the first times I was given the opportunity to connect emotionally to a scene in a casting room. I felt so alive!
In the film, which was a remake of the original Jesus Film, but with a focus on female stories from the Bible, I played the role of Salome, who was there at the cross at the feet of Jesus when he was crucified...talk about emotional and talk about pointing people to Jesus...like literally!! That film has been translated into many languages and used as a missionary tool around the world.
A friend, who was a missionary in the Northern Caucusus, wrote to tell me that she was at an evangelical outreach to Muslim women and was so surprised to look up and see me on the screen, dubbed into Farsi! Ha! Even though my role was small, I was so honored to be a part of that project, and I love still hearing testimonies of the women’s lives who have been transformed after seeing that film, even after all these years!
CM: Then you left Los Angeles?
GO: After my years in LA, my husband and I moved home to start a family, and I put my acting career on hold. I gave that piece of my life over to God, not knowing if it would come back to me, but trusting that if he wanted to bring acting back into my life, he would do it in his timing. Last fall, I was invited to audition for a faith-based feature film shooting in Sacramento. I knew that saying “yes” to the role would be a sacrifice for my family, but also that it would be super valuable for my three daughters, to see their ‘lil ‘ole momma pursuing her God-given dreams that once seemed forgotten, and that...to me, was pretty awesome. Since filming that project last fall, God has brought along some amazing stuff...most excitingly - Sleeper Agent.
CM: Tell us about Sleeper Agent.
GO: Connecting with Nathan Blair was all God’s timing, and me booking that role was all God’s favor. I am so so thankful. As much as I love tapping into my emotions, comedy is just plain fun and Sleeper Agent is seriously a laugh-out-loud comedy. Leland Klassen is so perfect in the painfully awkward, but lovable, role of Walter. Leland and Nathan wanted the film to have a very real-life, spy and espionage feel and a dramatic look, so that Walter’s comedic moments would stick out like the sore thumb that basically defines who Walter Goertzen is. I think they pulled it off really well!
Leland is one funny dude, and his knack for physical comedy is just so spot-on that many of the scenes had to be shot and re-shot, because the crew couldn’t hold it together, especially when all the comedians (there are a lot in this movie!) started improving new stuff in every take. It’s hard when you don’t know what funny thing is coming at you next!!
One scene, in particular, that I had with Leland was literally so hilarious that I couldn’t stop myself from crying laughing. It was the last night, and we had worked several late nights in a row, so we all were working on small amounts of sleep, which may have had something to do with it, but I’m pretty sure Leland was just extra funny that night.
I had to keep saying to myself, “Gigi...you are a professional...you can do this.” And still, I think, it took about six or seven takes before we could get through the physical comedy of that scene without breaking. I kept apologizing to Nathan, and he said something like, “Stop apologizing, I’m laughing just watching it on the monitor, I can’t imagine actually being in the scene.”
I can’t wait to see how it turns out in the film, and can only expect to see a few of those out-takes in the blooper reel.
CM: What did you think of the script?
GO: These guys had written a truly laugh-out-loud spy comedy, with a bit of romance thrown in, all with a sweet “Be who God made you” message! I was even more stoked to join the team, if that was possible! Every casting announcement I saw I got more and more excited, as people like Mark Christopher Lawrence, Matt Falk, Stacey Bradshaw, Tim David, Heath Arthur and Julie Aguero joined the cast!! These actors are an amazingly talented group! I was impressed every day on set as I watched them work.
CM: There was a lot of spiritual thought going into creating the team, correct?
GO: Each crew and cast member were prayerfully picked, and it was evident that this was the team that God had in mind for this project. Every day was started in prayer, led by the creative Nathan Blair, our fearless leader and director, who I can’t speak more highly of.
CM: Is it fair to say you weren’t making a movie, this was kind of an outreach on film?
GO: Nathan explained to the team on my first day that this is more than just reaching people who see the movie, it was about touching lives as we make the movie, as well! Which I saw unfold right before my eyes. Our crew, especially our star, Leland Klassen, took time to always speak to, and thank, each background actor, each security guard, each home, or restaurant owner, who we were working with.
CM: Were there some touching moments associated with making the movie?
GO: At one point we were working on a dirty street, which was supposed to be an old Mexican village - and Leland took the time to bring a cold drink and some extra cash to the homeless man on the corner, who was clearly wondering what we were doing on his turf. Every day on the set I was encouraged by multiple people all day long. It made coming to set and working long hours enjoyable.
CM: It sounds like a fun experience, no doubt. But do you think actors put too much pressure on themselves and should lighten up a bit?
GO: I do think actors can put a lot of pressure on themselves. I know, for me, I just want to do my very best for everyone on set. I want to do the writer justice, by giving voice to the words they’ve drafted, in a way that tells the story they intended to tell, just right. I want to do my scene partner justice by connecting and showing up for them on every take. I want to do the DP justice, so that when he gets that perfect pan shot, the level of my performance matches his perfectly timed move. And I want to do the director justice, by hearing how he articulates what he wants and letting that vision come through in my performance. Making movies is like a team sport. It takes everyone on set being on their game at the same time.
CM: What’s in your career dreams from here?
GO: One of my life-long dreams is to write and produce a faith-based film with my dad, and I believe we are both aimed in that direction. This spring his production company, Cloud Nine Productions, shot an awesome ten episode TV series, which I was honored to be a part of, called, In The Gap, which will be airing starting September 8, on TBN. From here, I’m not sure what’s next! I’m just trusting that God has good things in store and that as I continue to trust in him he will bring the right projects my way. I’ve already seen Him at work, opening doors only He could open for me! I truly pray that I am able to use the light that God has put inside of me to shine bright for Him, on and off screen. 8/14/19
Creative Motion Online was graciously granted the opportunity to interview actress Gigi Orsillo, one of the stars of the upcoming Christian comedy film Sleeper Agent. Her life is a little bit of drama, a little bit of humor, and a whole heaping-helping serving of faith.
CM: Thanks for chatting with CM. Gigi, when did you first show an interest in acting?
GO: I began acting at the ripe ‘ole age of 2 1/2. I was in a local mall commercial, which ran at Christmas every year. It became a long-standing Tulsa tradition for locals to see that beloved commercial each year, and when a new big-wig advertising agency was hired for the mall, they looked at the old footage and shot a new fancy Christmas commercial to replace it. The people of T-town were none too happy and called in to file complaint after complaint and demand that they put it back on the air. That thing ran for almost 20 years (17 years I believe!) before they finally retired it, when a chain bought out the local mall.
CM: What were some of your earliest roles as a child?
GO: I did several fun projects as a youngster.... I think my first big audition was for young Jenny in Forrest Gump. I was called back several times and even put on hold, but by the time they shot the film almost a year later, I had aged too fast for the age of the part. Ahhh, the one that got away! “Run, Forrest, Run!” I could have nailed that one!! But in all seriousness, it was a pretty cool experience and my first introduction into the exhausting audition process of a big budget film. One of the most memorable projects I did as a kid was flying to Wales as an 11-year-old, to shoot the music video Great God, for recording artist, Carman, in a beautiful historic castle.
CM: What’s a role folks tease you about?
GO: The one childhood role my friends like to tease me about was UHF with Weird Al Yankovich, which kind of became a cult classic. They like to embarrass me and bring it up at get-togethers, that I was the 'Spatula City' girl, until they get past the people who are like, “What in the world is that...never heard of it,” to the people that are super excited and scream, “WHAT!!? NO WAY!!??” I have really nice friends can you tell!? No... I really do have the best friends, they just like to embarrass me a little.
CM: Then you become a big girl, where did your path venue next?
GO: After continuing along the acting path in my youth, with numerous Christian projects and national commercials, I went on to study communications and film at Oral Roberts University. I married my college sweetheart, Elliott, and moved to California. There I began pursuing acting on a higher scale. I continued doing commercials, but began carving out a niche as a TV host, with shows like Kids on the Move, Gamer Nation, AMC’s Date Night, JCTV’s Extreme Video Zone and Starz Channel’s Inside Look. I loved hosting and getting to exercise the improv skills I was learning at The Groundlings School, but I really wanted the opportunity to use my gifts in theatrical projects that pointed people toward Jesus.
I decided to jump in with both feet and started studying Meisner technique at Playhouse West in LA. There I really learned how to access my emotions easily and respond deeply and richly to my scene partners. It was such fun that I craved opportunities to truly stretch myself.
I remember auditioning for casting director, Beverly Holloway for the film Magdalena: Released from Shame. It was one of the first times I was given the opportunity to connect emotionally to a scene in a casting room. I felt so alive!
In the film, which was a remake of the original Jesus Film, but with a focus on female stories from the Bible, I played the role of Salome, who was there at the cross at the feet of Jesus when he was crucified...talk about emotional and talk about pointing people to Jesus...like literally!! That film has been translated into many languages and used as a missionary tool around the world.
A friend, who was a missionary in the Northern Caucusus, wrote to tell me that she was at an evangelical outreach to Muslim women and was so surprised to look up and see me on the screen, dubbed into Farsi! Ha! Even though my role was small, I was so honored to be a part of that project, and I love still hearing testimonies of the women’s lives who have been transformed after seeing that film, even after all these years!
CM: Then you left Los Angeles?
GO: After my years in LA, my husband and I moved home to start a family, and I put my acting career on hold. I gave that piece of my life over to God, not knowing if it would come back to me, but trusting that if he wanted to bring acting back into my life, he would do it in his timing. Last fall, I was invited to audition for a faith-based feature film shooting in Sacramento. I knew that saying “yes” to the role would be a sacrifice for my family, but also that it would be super valuable for my three daughters, to see their ‘lil ‘ole momma pursuing her God-given dreams that once seemed forgotten, and that...to me, was pretty awesome. Since filming that project last fall, God has brought along some amazing stuff...most excitingly - Sleeper Agent.
CM: Tell us about Sleeper Agent.
GO: Connecting with Nathan Blair was all God’s timing, and me booking that role was all God’s favor. I am so so thankful. As much as I love tapping into my emotions, comedy is just plain fun and Sleeper Agent is seriously a laugh-out-loud comedy. Leland Klassen is so perfect in the painfully awkward, but lovable, role of Walter. Leland and Nathan wanted the film to have a very real-life, spy and espionage feel and a dramatic look, so that Walter’s comedic moments would stick out like the sore thumb that basically defines who Walter Goertzen is. I think they pulled it off really well!
Leland is one funny dude, and his knack for physical comedy is just so spot-on that many of the scenes had to be shot and re-shot, because the crew couldn’t hold it together, especially when all the comedians (there are a lot in this movie!) started improving new stuff in every take. It’s hard when you don’t know what funny thing is coming at you next!!
One scene, in particular, that I had with Leland was literally so hilarious that I couldn’t stop myself from crying laughing. It was the last night, and we had worked several late nights in a row, so we all were working on small amounts of sleep, which may have had something to do with it, but I’m pretty sure Leland was just extra funny that night.
I had to keep saying to myself, “Gigi...you are a professional...you can do this.” And still, I think, it took about six or seven takes before we could get through the physical comedy of that scene without breaking. I kept apologizing to Nathan, and he said something like, “Stop apologizing, I’m laughing just watching it on the monitor, I can’t imagine actually being in the scene.”
I can’t wait to see how it turns out in the film, and can only expect to see a few of those out-takes in the blooper reel.
CM: What did you think of the script?
GO: These guys had written a truly laugh-out-loud spy comedy, with a bit of romance thrown in, all with a sweet “Be who God made you” message! I was even more stoked to join the team, if that was possible! Every casting announcement I saw I got more and more excited, as people like Mark Christopher Lawrence, Matt Falk, Stacey Bradshaw, Tim David, Heath Arthur and Julie Aguero joined the cast!! These actors are an amazingly talented group! I was impressed every day on set as I watched them work.
CM: There was a lot of spiritual thought going into creating the team, correct?
GO: Each crew and cast member were prayerfully picked, and it was evident that this was the team that God had in mind for this project. Every day was started in prayer, led by the creative Nathan Blair, our fearless leader and director, who I can’t speak more highly of.
CM: Is it fair to say you weren’t making a movie, this was kind of an outreach on film?
GO: Nathan explained to the team on my first day that this is more than just reaching people who see the movie, it was about touching lives as we make the movie, as well! Which I saw unfold right before my eyes. Our crew, especially our star, Leland Klassen, took time to always speak to, and thank, each background actor, each security guard, each home, or restaurant owner, who we were working with.
CM: Were there some touching moments associated with making the movie?
GO: At one point we were working on a dirty street, which was supposed to be an old Mexican village - and Leland took the time to bring a cold drink and some extra cash to the homeless man on the corner, who was clearly wondering what we were doing on his turf. Every day on the set I was encouraged by multiple people all day long. It made coming to set and working long hours enjoyable.
CM: It sounds like a fun experience, no doubt. But do you think actors put too much pressure on themselves and should lighten up a bit?
GO: I do think actors can put a lot of pressure on themselves. I know, for me, I just want to do my very best for everyone on set. I want to do the writer justice, by giving voice to the words they’ve drafted, in a way that tells the story they intended to tell, just right. I want to do my scene partner justice by connecting and showing up for them on every take. I want to do the DP justice, so that when he gets that perfect pan shot, the level of my performance matches his perfectly timed move. And I want to do the director justice, by hearing how he articulates what he wants and letting that vision come through in my performance. Making movies is like a team sport. It takes everyone on set being on their game at the same time.
CM: What’s in your career dreams from here?
GO: One of my life-long dreams is to write and produce a faith-based film with my dad, and I believe we are both aimed in that direction. This spring his production company, Cloud Nine Productions, shot an awesome ten episode TV series, which I was honored to be a part of, called, In The Gap, which will be airing starting September 8, on TBN. From here, I’m not sure what’s next! I’m just trusting that God has good things in store and that as I continue to trust in him he will bring the right projects my way. I’ve already seen Him at work, opening doors only He could open for me! I truly pray that I am able to use the light that God has put inside of me to shine bright for Him, on and off screen. 8/14/19
▶A CHAT WITH COURTNEY MATHEWS
USING ACTING TO 'HELP OTHERS LEARN ABOUT GOD'
Courtney Mathews, center, and Aaron Noble, with children, all appearing in the upcoming movie "Christmas Coupon."
▶ CREATIVE MOTION INTERVIEW
In God’s economy there’s no such thing as coincidence. Actress, Producer and Casting Director, Courtney Mathews (Christmas Coupon, Revenge of the Mask, Bennett’s Song), returned her interview questions for this magazine last year. December 7, 2018 to be precise. But CM was in transition and it is only on Wednesday, July 31, that we are running the lead actress’ interview. The day of her birthday.
So, for those who feel forgotten by God: you are not. Below, is Courtney’s interview at the time of sending last year. She is now within months of starring in a TV movie on a major network that will air literally a year from when she sent these questions last December. Time flies. But doesn’t disappear.
CM would like to wish this up-and-comer a very Happy Birthday (July 31), and may the LORD richly bless Courtney Matthew and her family in what we believe is only the beginning of greatness, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
CM: Courtney, you're not only a really versatile actress, but a producer, casting director, etc., not to mention a busy mom. What is your favorite role regarding movie production (acting, producing, etc.)? What would you like to do more of?
COURTNEY: My favorite role when it comes to filming is actually a tricky question to answer. I love behind-the-scenes, but I also have a strong passion for acting in front of the camera. I currently get to do a few roles on a film that I’m on, with behind-the-scenes, as well as play the lead, which is a major blessing to me!
CM: What are your big dreams in life? And your mission?
COURTNEY: My big dream in my life for my acting career that I have always had this strong feeling like I am called by God, to use my acting in some way to help others to learn about God, and possibly develop a relationship with him. I hope to grow in my career, to open new doors, and meet more people to have opportunities to share the word, or help someone in some way, who may just need someone to remind them they are amazing and a blessing. I love acting and I think it’s the perfect career to be able to network and share these things.
CM: Since you play such a variety of roles in movies, do you have a favorite type that you've played or would like to play?
COURTNEY: My favorite role that I have played thus far would be the role of Allison Grant, a girl who is still in love with a man from her past, yet she holds heartache from the way he left her. She ends up stuck between two guys and has to make a choice. It’s a fun character to play and it’s been a blast to film!
CM: Some of your family members act. Does that make it harder or easier?
COURTNEY: All four of my children act with me currently in the film I am starring in. Although I love that I get to do this with them, it can be a challenge at times. But I’m very proud of all four of them, and once the camera starts rolling they know that they are there to work, and it’s fun to watch them grow as little actors.
CM: You're doing a lot to improve Christian media with your excellence in skills and intuitive sense of know-how/talent. What do you wish you could change in Christian media production, to improve the quality of it?
COURTNEY: To improve Christian media and the quality of it, I pray that we can just simply apply more real life stories, and how they were changed by Christ. I think there are so many amazing and interesting stories to be told out there, that would inspire so many, if they could sit back and watch it come to life on the big screen.
CM: You've worked with some notable actors that have shot movies in Michigan. What are they like in real life, and any interesting stories you can share?
COURTNEY: I have had the pleasure of working with some amazing actors over the last few years, such as Tara Reid, Kristy Swanson, and Dean Cain, to name a few. I grew a great friendship with Tara Reid and Dean Cain, as I had worked with them so much over the last few years. They are all three amazing actors and I’ve learned so much from them. 7/31/19
In God’s economy there’s no such thing as coincidence. Actress, Producer and Casting Director, Courtney Mathews (Christmas Coupon, Revenge of the Mask, Bennett’s Song), returned her interview questions for this magazine last year. December 7, 2018 to be precise. But CM was in transition and it is only on Wednesday, July 31, that we are running the lead actress’ interview. The day of her birthday.
So, for those who feel forgotten by God: you are not. Below, is Courtney’s interview at the time of sending last year. She is now within months of starring in a TV movie on a major network that will air literally a year from when she sent these questions last December. Time flies. But doesn’t disappear.
CM would like to wish this up-and-comer a very Happy Birthday (July 31), and may the LORD richly bless Courtney Matthew and her family in what we believe is only the beginning of greatness, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
CM: Courtney, you're not only a really versatile actress, but a producer, casting director, etc., not to mention a busy mom. What is your favorite role regarding movie production (acting, producing, etc.)? What would you like to do more of?
COURTNEY: My favorite role when it comes to filming is actually a tricky question to answer. I love behind-the-scenes, but I also have a strong passion for acting in front of the camera. I currently get to do a few roles on a film that I’m on, with behind-the-scenes, as well as play the lead, which is a major blessing to me!
CM: What are your big dreams in life? And your mission?
COURTNEY: My big dream in my life for my acting career that I have always had this strong feeling like I am called by God, to use my acting in some way to help others to learn about God, and possibly develop a relationship with him. I hope to grow in my career, to open new doors, and meet more people to have opportunities to share the word, or help someone in some way, who may just need someone to remind them they are amazing and a blessing. I love acting and I think it’s the perfect career to be able to network and share these things.
CM: Since you play such a variety of roles in movies, do you have a favorite type that you've played or would like to play?
COURTNEY: My favorite role that I have played thus far would be the role of Allison Grant, a girl who is still in love with a man from her past, yet she holds heartache from the way he left her. She ends up stuck between two guys and has to make a choice. It’s a fun character to play and it’s been a blast to film!
CM: Some of your family members act. Does that make it harder or easier?
COURTNEY: All four of my children act with me currently in the film I am starring in. Although I love that I get to do this with them, it can be a challenge at times. But I’m very proud of all four of them, and once the camera starts rolling they know that they are there to work, and it’s fun to watch them grow as little actors.
CM: You're doing a lot to improve Christian media with your excellence in skills and intuitive sense of know-how/talent. What do you wish you could change in Christian media production, to improve the quality of it?
COURTNEY: To improve Christian media and the quality of it, I pray that we can just simply apply more real life stories, and how they were changed by Christ. I think there are so many amazing and interesting stories to be told out there, that would inspire so many, if they could sit back and watch it come to life on the big screen.
CM: You've worked with some notable actors that have shot movies in Michigan. What are they like in real life, and any interesting stories you can share?
COURTNEY: I have had the pleasure of working with some amazing actors over the last few years, such as Tara Reid, Kristy Swanson, and Dean Cain, to name a few. I grew a great friendship with Tara Reid and Dean Cain, as I had worked with them so much over the last few years. They are all three amazing actors and I’ve learned so much from them. 7/31/19
▶A CHAT WITH ROB DEPALO
TAPESTRY: 'GOD WAS ORCHESTRATING MY SALVATION'
Rob DePalo, screenwriter and producer of the new Stephen Baldwin motion picture "Tapestry."
▶ CREATIVE MOTION INTERVIEW
Beloved actress Tina Louise makes her movie come-back in a dramatic role unlike that of her most notable TV show, Gilligan's Island, in Ken Kushner's Tapestry. Louise, a Broadway veteran, plays the dying mother to Stephen Baldwin's character that is struggling with spiritual and family issues. Baldwin's father is played by renowned “tough guy” actor, Burt Young, best known as “Paulie” in the Rocky franchise. CM asked Tapestry screenwriter/producer, Rob DePalo about the motion picture, which is available on Amazon Prime and Christian Cinema On-Demand.
CM: Tapestry features many stars, Rob. Can you share a few stories about how these actors got involved?
RD: The film was originally cast with all unknown actors. Then the idea of approaching Stephen Baldwin was discussed. We knew he was not only a great actor, but a born-again Christian, so we contacted Stephen’s business manager, figuring it was a long-shot. My production team felt--at best--we might get him to do a cameo, but he loved the script and agreed to star in the film. Once Stephen was signed on to play "Ryan," other talented actors, such as Burt Young and Tina Louise, showed interest in the film. Myself, and the other producers (Mike Yacovone and Ken Kushner) met Burt at his home on Long Island, and Tina at a restaurant in Manhattan. They were both lovely, very down-to-earth, and liked the project.
CM: What inspired you to write the story? And how did you arrive at the title?
RD: I was having many difficulties in my life between 2011 and 2013. I had lost my job, my marriage was not in good shape, my kids were leaving the roost, and my mother was very ill. I myself had bouts with anxiety and depression. I began to chronicle my life, perhaps as a means of self-therapy. But some events began to unfold, which led me to realize that God was orchestrating my salvation, thus Tapestry came together. The title came to me because it felt as if God was weaving together various pieces, to form a pattern, or a journey, for me to take.
CM: What has the reaction to the movie so far?
RD: Christian viewers seem to love the story-line and the poignant performances of Baldwin, as well as Tina Louise and Burt Young.
I also have found that people seem to be very interested in the backstory, that is, the events of my own life that led to me making the film. I am not a filmmaker by trade. I am a banker (a regular Joe), so people find that fascinating.
CM: What was the most difficult part during the production of the movie?
RD: We had some issues with sound in the film. I always looked at movies as a visual art, but I learned that audio is a very important component of a film’s success. The film was given to a number of audio engineers who struggled to get it just right. Finally, we got to the finish line, but it was a three-year post-production process that was slowed primarily due to issues with audio.
CM: Did you experience some spiritual warfare during the making of this movie? Any roadblocks or lack of fellowship?
RD: Quite the contrary. I think God was in our corner, beckoning us to finish this film, as if to use the movie as a vessel to speak to the masses.
Many times we experienced coincidences, or “signs,” that led us to feel that God was speaking to us and urging us not to give up the fight to finish the film.
CM: What's astonishing about the cast is the inclusion of Tina Louise. Most people are probably unaware of how skilled and seasoned she is as a dramatic actress. What was it like working with her?
RD: Tina is the consummate professional. This was a low-budget production, but Tina was on time, prepared, and enthusiastic always. I had to pinch myself several times to believe that an actress I grew up admiring was now in a production I was part of. It was surreal. She is such a genuine and caring person.
In researching her for the part, I was amazed at how many different films and TV shows she was in. She is known for her role as Ginger in Gilligan’s Island, but there is so much more to her, both as an actress and as a humanitarian.
CM: How does this faith-based, inspired movie differ from other so-called “Christian” films of today?
RD: I feel Tapestry is much less “preachy” than most Christian films of the past several years. Yes, it is clearly a story where God plays a huge role, but it is also about family, about real-life struggles and issues, and we aimed to make it a film that the mainstream audience could also enjoy.
CM: Burt Young is known for playing tough guys and gangsters. How does his sensitive and spiritual side come out in this role?
RD: When I met Burt before we filmed Tapestry I saw a man who was loving and artistic. He had paintings that he had done all over his home. He did not know me, but hugged me and welcomed me. This was not at all the way I knew him on the screen, having grown up seeing him play the gruff “Paulie” in the Rocky films, or a gangster in The Pope of Greenwich Village, or The Sopranos. He has a lot of heart, and it was effortless for him to come across as a deeply loving father who was troubled by his past.
CM: What are your ideas for churches to have access to play the movie?
RD: I have offered some churches in New Jersey, where I reside, that I would bring a DVD and show the movie at their church and follow-up with a discussion and Q & A. I am open to discuss any ideas some of the larger churches might have, where we could even work toward developing a Bible study based on the film.
CM: What is the message you want to convey with Tapestry for viewers to take home from the experience?
RD: I want people to be comforted in the notion that as bad as life can sometimes be, as tough as the road traveled might get, that God has our backs, and that beyond this Earth, there is a a Heaven where we can rejoice, after the tough days of life unfold.
CM: What's next for you, and how can people get in contact with you for more information?
RD: I am presently working on a few faith-based screenplays. I like to collaborate. I feel two or more heads are better than one. There are also projects friends have that I may involve myself with. Tapestry has a Facebook page: Tapestry Movie 2019. Messages can be sent to that page which I retrieve, and I answer all inquiries promptly. People can access the movie on Amazon Prime, Christiancinema.com or Comcast (Xfinity on Demand). 7/12/19
Beloved actress Tina Louise makes her movie come-back in a dramatic role unlike that of her most notable TV show, Gilligan's Island, in Ken Kushner's Tapestry. Louise, a Broadway veteran, plays the dying mother to Stephen Baldwin's character that is struggling with spiritual and family issues. Baldwin's father is played by renowned “tough guy” actor, Burt Young, best known as “Paulie” in the Rocky franchise. CM asked Tapestry screenwriter/producer, Rob DePalo about the motion picture, which is available on Amazon Prime and Christian Cinema On-Demand.
CM: Tapestry features many stars, Rob. Can you share a few stories about how these actors got involved?
RD: The film was originally cast with all unknown actors. Then the idea of approaching Stephen Baldwin was discussed. We knew he was not only a great actor, but a born-again Christian, so we contacted Stephen’s business manager, figuring it was a long-shot. My production team felt--at best--we might get him to do a cameo, but he loved the script and agreed to star in the film. Once Stephen was signed on to play "Ryan," other talented actors, such as Burt Young and Tina Louise, showed interest in the film. Myself, and the other producers (Mike Yacovone and Ken Kushner) met Burt at his home on Long Island, and Tina at a restaurant in Manhattan. They were both lovely, very down-to-earth, and liked the project.
CM: What inspired you to write the story? And how did you arrive at the title?
RD: I was having many difficulties in my life between 2011 and 2013. I had lost my job, my marriage was not in good shape, my kids were leaving the roost, and my mother was very ill. I myself had bouts with anxiety and depression. I began to chronicle my life, perhaps as a means of self-therapy. But some events began to unfold, which led me to realize that God was orchestrating my salvation, thus Tapestry came together. The title came to me because it felt as if God was weaving together various pieces, to form a pattern, or a journey, for me to take.
CM: What has the reaction to the movie so far?
RD: Christian viewers seem to love the story-line and the poignant performances of Baldwin, as well as Tina Louise and Burt Young.
I also have found that people seem to be very interested in the backstory, that is, the events of my own life that led to me making the film. I am not a filmmaker by trade. I am a banker (a regular Joe), so people find that fascinating.
CM: What was the most difficult part during the production of the movie?
RD: We had some issues with sound in the film. I always looked at movies as a visual art, but I learned that audio is a very important component of a film’s success. The film was given to a number of audio engineers who struggled to get it just right. Finally, we got to the finish line, but it was a three-year post-production process that was slowed primarily due to issues with audio.
CM: Did you experience some spiritual warfare during the making of this movie? Any roadblocks or lack of fellowship?
RD: Quite the contrary. I think God was in our corner, beckoning us to finish this film, as if to use the movie as a vessel to speak to the masses.
Many times we experienced coincidences, or “signs,” that led us to feel that God was speaking to us and urging us not to give up the fight to finish the film.
CM: What's astonishing about the cast is the inclusion of Tina Louise. Most people are probably unaware of how skilled and seasoned she is as a dramatic actress. What was it like working with her?
RD: Tina is the consummate professional. This was a low-budget production, but Tina was on time, prepared, and enthusiastic always. I had to pinch myself several times to believe that an actress I grew up admiring was now in a production I was part of. It was surreal. She is such a genuine and caring person.
In researching her for the part, I was amazed at how many different films and TV shows she was in. She is known for her role as Ginger in Gilligan’s Island, but there is so much more to her, both as an actress and as a humanitarian.
CM: How does this faith-based, inspired movie differ from other so-called “Christian” films of today?
RD: I feel Tapestry is much less “preachy” than most Christian films of the past several years. Yes, it is clearly a story where God plays a huge role, but it is also about family, about real-life struggles and issues, and we aimed to make it a film that the mainstream audience could also enjoy.
CM: Burt Young is known for playing tough guys and gangsters. How does his sensitive and spiritual side come out in this role?
RD: When I met Burt before we filmed Tapestry I saw a man who was loving and artistic. He had paintings that he had done all over his home. He did not know me, but hugged me and welcomed me. This was not at all the way I knew him on the screen, having grown up seeing him play the gruff “Paulie” in the Rocky films, or a gangster in The Pope of Greenwich Village, or The Sopranos. He has a lot of heart, and it was effortless for him to come across as a deeply loving father who was troubled by his past.
CM: What are your ideas for churches to have access to play the movie?
RD: I have offered some churches in New Jersey, where I reside, that I would bring a DVD and show the movie at their church and follow-up with a discussion and Q & A. I am open to discuss any ideas some of the larger churches might have, where we could even work toward developing a Bible study based on the film.
CM: What is the message you want to convey with Tapestry for viewers to take home from the experience?
RD: I want people to be comforted in the notion that as bad as life can sometimes be, as tough as the road traveled might get, that God has our backs, and that beyond this Earth, there is a a Heaven where we can rejoice, after the tough days of life unfold.
CM: What's next for you, and how can people get in contact with you for more information?
RD: I am presently working on a few faith-based screenplays. I like to collaborate. I feel two or more heads are better than one. There are also projects friends have that I may involve myself with. Tapestry has a Facebook page: Tapestry Movie 2019. Messages can be sent to that page which I retrieve, and I answer all inquiries promptly. People can access the movie on Amazon Prime, Christiancinema.com or Comcast (Xfinity on Demand). 7/12/19
▶A CHAT WITH CORINE GATTI
'MOM ON THE RIGHT' HOST CONFRONTS THE CULTURE
Journalist and media personality Corine Gatti interviews actor Antonio Banderas. Originally published July 12, 2019.
▶ CREATIVE MOTION INTERVIEW
Journalist Corine Gatti is more than just a Mom on the Right. Gatti has interviewed United States President, Jimmy Carter, President George W. Bush’s Ambassador to Estonia, Dave Philips, former CIA Agent Bazzel Baz. She’s interviewed celebs also, like Antonio Banderas, Harrison Ford, Dolly Parton, and Duran Duran’s John Taylor. CM recently caught up with this buy gal to find out why she’s now a Mom on the Right. Hey, better right than wrong, right?
CM: Corine, your show, Mom on the Right, is new. But what's new about it??
MOTR: I'm pretty honest with people and with myself. I used to be on the Left, so doing something like this was on the radar, but actually, I was afraid to put myself out there. However, I was doing this anyway by doing videos on Facebook. TLBTV and The Liberty Beacon (100 percent run by volunteers and people who want to see a change) asked me to host a show, and I chose to go for it. I am very grateful for their support.
CM: You address politics, but what's the bigger picture? Spiritual warfare?
MOTR: I think we're in the fight for our lives. When I started working to create faith content years ago, I felt a constant attack, so did others. The bigger picture is, it's not just me, it's all of us. This is a crucial time for all of us. Look, late-term abortion is being celebrated, Christians are not able to pray openly in schools or in public places, this is unacceptable and definitely warfare. Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton dodged using the word "Christians" on social media, about the terror attacks on Christians on Easter Sunday, in Sri Lanka. What, is the word "Christian" a dirty word? If we don't speak up, who will? Washington? That's funny!
CM: Does it bother you that many pastors use the pulpit to push a liberal agenda on their congregation by supporting the Democrat platform? Don't they advocate killing unborn babies? How does Christ like that?
MOTR: I can't stand it. The two don't mix. If a church is getting too political or something is not sitting well with you, find another church. Now, the same goes for Conservative churches. We need to follow the Holy Spirit. I think Jesus is not happy!!!
CM: Part of the reason you do your show is you were concerned about your child's future, and the direction of all children. Can you explain how liberals care about children, when now they advocate abortion right up to the moment of delivery, and even their fate after birth?
MOTR: They become desensitized and don't really appreciate what late-term abortion entails. Tell them to watch a documentary on it, and they might change their minds. But I think it's a battle between freedom of choice and that has nothing to do with loving children, in many minds. Makes no sense.
CM: A popular liberal talking point is how illegal immigration is a “manufactured crisis” and how they are appalled by “children being ripped from the arms of their mothers.” How come they are not appalled by children being ripped from their mother's wombs and tossed into trash bins?
MOTR: It doesn't fit the agenda, and we need to remember a lot of their political campaigns are funded by Planned Parenthood. In Virginia, we have Governor Ralph Northam, who not only endorsed this inhumane act, but reports surfaced that he received an estimated “$2 million in campaign contributions from Planned Parenthood.”
CM: Also, on the invasion on our southern border, if progressives support this, why don't they welcome some of these people into their homes to give them a hand? You'd think they wouldn't mind having a human sex trafficker sharing a bedroom with their kids. What gives?
MOTR: What do they care about us? Politicians and people who don't support our borders have walls and gates, it doesn't impact them, so why care?
CM: What about the gender issue in public schools? What's wrong if 12-year-old Tommy feels like a girl today and goes into the girl's bathroom and drops his pants? If the daughter of a progressive experienced that, they should be okay with it, right?
MOTR: No, No…. Many kids are not okay with this, they are scared, and so am I. As a parent, I have the right to protect my kid. I will take my kid out of any school that exposes them to this. Tommy can go drop his pants in the boys' room, or in another bathroom, not the girls’.
CM: A recent poll revealed that 51% of individuals age 18-29 favor socialism. Is it time to shut down the colleges and put strip malls in their place?
MOTR: These kids don't know what it is like to do without. Ask the people in Venezuela who can't eat now or the people who are dying because they can't get medication. They need to get real, pull up their big boy, and their big girl pants up, and work. Do you want free college? Okay. I want your A's and money when you work. Fair is fair, right?
CM: Just to set your critics straight, have you ever colluded with Russians?
MOTR: LOL...Busted.
CM: There was a lot of talks two years ago about draining the swamp. Is the next phase of cleaning more like a cultural enima?
MOTR: I am disappointed, the swamp needs more draining. Until then, we can revisit the next question.
CM: Do you agree that one myth, long since exposed, is this nonsense that liberals and conservatives need to sit down, and “have a discussion,” and reach a consensus? The Antichrist spirit is on overdrive. Our nation is divided. What's so bad about that? When Jesus comes back, do we want Him to sit down with the devil, negotiate terms, and reach a compromise?
MOTR: I think the atmosphere of anger needs to cool down in the country. There are certain issues we can't compromise on, like late-term abortion, but right now people are just walking time-bombs.
CM: A show like yours is a noble attempt to wake people up. Expose fake news, the lies of the purveyors of evil. Can we expect to recruit some people to the righteous camp? The progressives are dug in. So, this is a push to get some of the Kool-Aid drinkers off the sauce?
MOTR: I hope so, with your help as well, but to be honest I am a small fish. We need more fish in the pond to make a big difference.
CM: How has the response been to your show so far?
MOTR: Pretty, good. My deal is, people assume that I agree with everything the president does–I don't. I generally don't trust most politicians.
CM: How can potential guest contact you?
MOTR: momontherightshow@gmail.com
CM: Any final thoughts from the Mom on the Right?
MOTR: Thank you for having me in your magazine! I guess I would encourage other women to speak up and to know that they're not fighting the "good fight" alone. 7/12/19
Journalist Corine Gatti is more than just a Mom on the Right. Gatti has interviewed United States President, Jimmy Carter, President George W. Bush’s Ambassador to Estonia, Dave Philips, former CIA Agent Bazzel Baz. She’s interviewed celebs also, like Antonio Banderas, Harrison Ford, Dolly Parton, and Duran Duran’s John Taylor. CM recently caught up with this buy gal to find out why she’s now a Mom on the Right. Hey, better right than wrong, right?
CM: Corine, your show, Mom on the Right, is new. But what's new about it??
MOTR: I'm pretty honest with people and with myself. I used to be on the Left, so doing something like this was on the radar, but actually, I was afraid to put myself out there. However, I was doing this anyway by doing videos on Facebook. TLBTV and The Liberty Beacon (100 percent run by volunteers and people who want to see a change) asked me to host a show, and I chose to go for it. I am very grateful for their support.
CM: You address politics, but what's the bigger picture? Spiritual warfare?
MOTR: I think we're in the fight for our lives. When I started working to create faith content years ago, I felt a constant attack, so did others. The bigger picture is, it's not just me, it's all of us. This is a crucial time for all of us. Look, late-term abortion is being celebrated, Christians are not able to pray openly in schools or in public places, this is unacceptable and definitely warfare. Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton dodged using the word "Christians" on social media, about the terror attacks on Christians on Easter Sunday, in Sri Lanka. What, is the word "Christian" a dirty word? If we don't speak up, who will? Washington? That's funny!
CM: Does it bother you that many pastors use the pulpit to push a liberal agenda on their congregation by supporting the Democrat platform? Don't they advocate killing unborn babies? How does Christ like that?
MOTR: I can't stand it. The two don't mix. If a church is getting too political or something is not sitting well with you, find another church. Now, the same goes for Conservative churches. We need to follow the Holy Spirit. I think Jesus is not happy!!!
CM: Part of the reason you do your show is you were concerned about your child's future, and the direction of all children. Can you explain how liberals care about children, when now they advocate abortion right up to the moment of delivery, and even their fate after birth?
MOTR: They become desensitized and don't really appreciate what late-term abortion entails. Tell them to watch a documentary on it, and they might change their minds. But I think it's a battle between freedom of choice and that has nothing to do with loving children, in many minds. Makes no sense.
CM: A popular liberal talking point is how illegal immigration is a “manufactured crisis” and how they are appalled by “children being ripped from the arms of their mothers.” How come they are not appalled by children being ripped from their mother's wombs and tossed into trash bins?
MOTR: It doesn't fit the agenda, and we need to remember a lot of their political campaigns are funded by Planned Parenthood. In Virginia, we have Governor Ralph Northam, who not only endorsed this inhumane act, but reports surfaced that he received an estimated “$2 million in campaign contributions from Planned Parenthood.”
CM: Also, on the invasion on our southern border, if progressives support this, why don't they welcome some of these people into their homes to give them a hand? You'd think they wouldn't mind having a human sex trafficker sharing a bedroom with their kids. What gives?
MOTR: What do they care about us? Politicians and people who don't support our borders have walls and gates, it doesn't impact them, so why care?
CM: What about the gender issue in public schools? What's wrong if 12-year-old Tommy feels like a girl today and goes into the girl's bathroom and drops his pants? If the daughter of a progressive experienced that, they should be okay with it, right?
MOTR: No, No…. Many kids are not okay with this, they are scared, and so am I. As a parent, I have the right to protect my kid. I will take my kid out of any school that exposes them to this. Tommy can go drop his pants in the boys' room, or in another bathroom, not the girls’.
CM: A recent poll revealed that 51% of individuals age 18-29 favor socialism. Is it time to shut down the colleges and put strip malls in their place?
MOTR: These kids don't know what it is like to do without. Ask the people in Venezuela who can't eat now or the people who are dying because they can't get medication. They need to get real, pull up their big boy, and their big girl pants up, and work. Do you want free college? Okay. I want your A's and money when you work. Fair is fair, right?
CM: Just to set your critics straight, have you ever colluded with Russians?
MOTR: LOL...Busted.
CM: There was a lot of talks two years ago about draining the swamp. Is the next phase of cleaning more like a cultural enima?
MOTR: I am disappointed, the swamp needs more draining. Until then, we can revisit the next question.
CM: Do you agree that one myth, long since exposed, is this nonsense that liberals and conservatives need to sit down, and “have a discussion,” and reach a consensus? The Antichrist spirit is on overdrive. Our nation is divided. What's so bad about that? When Jesus comes back, do we want Him to sit down with the devil, negotiate terms, and reach a compromise?
MOTR: I think the atmosphere of anger needs to cool down in the country. There are certain issues we can't compromise on, like late-term abortion, but right now people are just walking time-bombs.
CM: A show like yours is a noble attempt to wake people up. Expose fake news, the lies of the purveyors of evil. Can we expect to recruit some people to the righteous camp? The progressives are dug in. So, this is a push to get some of the Kool-Aid drinkers off the sauce?
MOTR: I hope so, with your help as well, but to be honest I am a small fish. We need more fish in the pond to make a big difference.
CM: How has the response been to your show so far?
MOTR: Pretty, good. My deal is, people assume that I agree with everything the president does–I don't. I generally don't trust most politicians.
CM: How can potential guest contact you?
MOTR: momontherightshow@gmail.com
CM: Any final thoughts from the Mom on the Right?
MOTR: Thank you for having me in your magazine! I guess I would encourage other women to speak up and to know that they're not fighting the "good fight" alone. 7/12/19
