Scott Hartmann's BLOG

So it’s been a long time since I welled up for something happy and from real life. Movies can definitely get me. When I’m a little moody a commercial will pull a controlled breath from me, but it seems to be rare that real life will get me to loosen up on the tear ducts. This emotional outpouring is rare and a great barometer for some events in my life. Last Sunday I drove up to L.A. to watch my very close friend Bryan propose to his girlfriend, now fiancé, Natalie. And as a bonus I was able to see and spend time with long time friends. It was one of those occasions that can remind you how valuable and special real friends can be and how much their lives mean to mine.

Last night I took a quick glance out my bedroom window as the sun was setting. Though most times I wouldn’t have spent too much time taking it in. Maybe I’ll pause for a second, but last night I felt compelled to grab my camera so I could share it. There are too few times that I feel fortunate to see things that move me. And let me remind you, this was taken from my bedroom window. I felt fortunate last night.

So it occurred to me that in my time at Chapman University I’ve made a few movies. That wasn’t the part that occurred to me. What occurred to me is that I have a blog now and I can share what I’ve made with people who are interested. I sent out a big email and invited a lot people to watch my most recent work. I really appreciate the people who were gracious enough to watch the movies. The support and feedback is greatly appreciated.

I’ve setup a page on Vimeo.com to show my work. You are welcome to check out the new movies as well as some older ones. Vimeo is good place to post good quality versions of the movies I’m made, so I will continue to upload them each week.

Bad Character is the most recent, and without question the biggest movie, I’ve been a part of making. I didn’t do it alone by any means. It was very much a collaboration. And for the first time I directed a movie I didn’t write myself. It was a challenge to make this movie, but overall I’m pleased with how it turned out. You can watch it online (the password is: writersblock) at Vimeo.com BAD CHARACTER. The reason I have this particular movie password protected is that I’m planning on sending it to festivals.

I directed movie over the summer as well. It was a great project. The first time I’ve gone into a movie with no script, no story, and no idea where I’m going. I approached much the same way John Cassavettes or Mike Leigh approach making movies. A lot of improv and freedom. It was a great experience for me and I’m happy with the end result. You can go to the Vimeo page or click on the link below.

Keys to Closure

I’ve also upload my first year movie, BROKEN. It was originally titled Wedding Bowl, but I recently changed the title to something that was less likely to make people wrinkle their nose in confusion.

Anyhow, that’s what I have for now. If you do watch the movies please drop me a line and let me know what you think. I’m trying to get better at this and getting feedback from people who are not film school snobs is very helpful.

Not exactly the New Year. It’s already past the middle of the month. Argh! I’m aware of how quickly things can slip by these days. The bane and pleasure of aging I suppose. For example, I moved to the fine city of Orange in August of 2008 and I don’t know that I wrote in my journal since I made the trek. I think about it, but alas we are not at a point where thoughts are transposed into words for an online journal. Just yet. However, I’ve made a resolution. In fact, my only resolution for this new year. I’ve resolved to do a better job of writing in my journal (Blog now). I’m never certain if people read it, but if anyone wants to follow, catch up or review the roller coaster that can be my chosen life, then great. Read on…