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Glass-blowing studio moves to Sparta La Crosse Tribune “Owner and artist Chad Moriarty has moved his Southern Fried Glass
glass-blowing studio from Florida to a renovated barn at 16911 Igloo Road in
Sparta, just off the Elroy-Sparta State Trail. His studio and gallery opened
earlier this month in the barn, which Moriarty and his fiance, Angela,
renovated. They operate the business together. Moriarty invites people to drop
in to watch a glass-blowing demonstration, visit his art gallery or schedule a
private lesson. He blows 2,000-degree molten glass into abstract and functional
art.”
Arts and Creativity in Education
Workshop lets Oneida youth focus on art - Traveling artist hopes to inspire
'good dreams' Green Bay Press Gazette “Eleven-year-old Anastasia Delgado Barajas squeezed a tube of green paint all
over her hands before firmly pressing them both on the canvas in front of her.
Her hands still covered in bright green, she explained that she's creating
"healing hands" and plans a few more handprints in different colors all over her
painting. "I'm hoping to do two more colors," said Delgado Barajas, an incoming
sixth-grader at Lombardi Middle School, adding, "I love painting." Delgado
Barajas was part of a group of young people, ranging in age from teens to 20s,
who attended workshops Thursday and Friday with Ojibwe artist Sam English at the
Oneida Nation Arts Program. English, who lives in Albuquerque, N.M., primarily
does poster prints for Native American issues and conducts workshops
nationwide.”
Frank Juarez named Outstanding Art Educator Sheboygan Times “North High School art teacher Frank Juarez has been chosen as the 2009
Wisconsin Art Education Association Outstanding Art Educator — Secondary
Division. Juarez will be recognized along with other recipients at the 2009 WAEA
Fall Conference's awards ceremony to be held at the Milwaukee Institute of Art
and Design and the Milwaukee Art Museum during fall break in October.
Outstanding Art Educator is awarded to a member from each division who has
significantly contributed to the individual's division in art education
(elementary, middle, secondary, higher education, supervision/administration,
private education, retired and museum education) on the local, state and/or
national levels.”
Community Arts
Editorial: Maritime Museum at 40 Herald Times Reporter “Considering the added value tourism dollars can provide, it's nice to be a
destination. Not every community the size of Manitowoc boasts a natural feature
or manmade amenity with year-round drawing power, though. Here, the shoreline
and waters of magnificent Lake Michigan, including Point Beach State Forest
north of Two Rivers, provide seasonal recreational opportunities for tourists
and residents. Thanks to the cross-lake services of the S.S. Badger, we're able
to welcome thousands of travelers to our corner of the Lakeshore for almost five
months each year.”
Paisley keeps Fest crowd rocking Eau Claire Leader-Telegram CADOTT – “Carrying a steaming guitar and a white cowboy hat full of hits,
reigning country music male vocalist of the year Brad Paisley played and sang
his way well into the summer's night Saturday at Country Fest in rural Cadott.
As in the words of his hit "She's Everything," Paisley went "on and on and on"
in a show just shy of two hours. He was still cradling the noisy crowd by the
time he reached a two-song encore, which included the sing-a-long hit "Alcohol."
Rain soaks show, not spirits - “Singing (playing) in the rain.” Dunn County Reporter “Remember Gene Kelly sloshing about in the puddles, singing his heart out?
Well, it’s great in the movies ... not so great on the football field when a
drum corps is marching and playing at full-tilt. Drums Along the Red Cedar
volunteers and university staff worked at getting the show on the field Sunday
afternoon. First it sprinkled ... then a fine mist ... and then ... it rained
and rained and rained. Then it rained some more.”
Folk Arts/Folklife
Joining the Juneteenth fun - Event marks collapse of slavery after Civil War Kenosha News “Eleven-year-old Maha Ridley viewed Saturday’s Juneteenth Day celebration
here as a type of classroom continuing into summer vacation. “It was interesting
to see about when we were beginning to be free,” she said, referring to the
collapse of slavery when the Civil War ended in 1865. “Everyone comes together
here to learn more about social studies and our history. Knowing about
Juneteenth, now I’ll be more grateful for the things we have.” “This was
something we could all be proud of,” she said.”
Media Arts
Wisconsin Gov. Doyle vetoes 81 budget items worth $10 million Green Bay Press Gazette MADISON — “Gov. Jim Doyle is vetoing 81 items in the two-year $62 billion
state budget. The vetoes amount to $10 million. Doyle announced the vetoes on
Monday, the same day he signed the new budget into law. Doyle’s vetoes leave
most of the major parts of the budget deal reached by the Democratic-controlled
Legislature in tact. However, he did remove a Milwaukee Transit Authority that
could have levied up to six-tenths of a cent sales tax increase to pay for
transportation improvements and other county expenses. Through his vetoes he
further reduced the state’s film tax incentive program, softened new minimum car
insurance liability levels, and allowed more people to be eligible for a new
prison early release program.”
Governor Doyle Signs State Budget Wheeler Report MADISON – “Joined by local officials, business and education leaders and
Wisconsin citizens, Governor Jim Doyle signed into law today a state budget.”
Where Public Enemies Went for a Little Peace and Quiet New York Times “WISCONSIN’S quiet beauty and small-town culture have made it popular with
stressed-out Chicagoans desperate for a break. But in the 1920s and ’30s it
offered a different kind of getaway for harried Midwesterners. For bad guys on
the lam, Wisconsin was once the refuge of choice. Al Capone, John Dillinger and
Baby Face Nelson all headed for the state’s north woods when the heat was on.
Some of the places where those public enemies sought a bit of peace in their
not-so-peaceful lives still exist, and visitors can follow an itinerary from the
state tourism agency and disappear themselves down the back roads of northern
Wisconsin for a few days.”
Poser home will be in spotlight Beaver Dam Daily Citizen COLUMBUS — “He arrived at the back door like a gangster should, well hidden
from the street by a large tree and carriage house. With such a special guest
coming to her home in Columbus, Mary Poser knew sacrifices would have to be made
— like finding a different place to sleep in the house she has owned since 1952.
"I couldn't use my bedroom anymore, I had to move," said the 85-year-old. "That
was the brothel." With the guest arriving just outside, family called Mary to
come out of the house and meet Johnny. "Johnny. Johnny who?" she said as she
stepped outside.”
Working with Johnny Depp: Public Enemies extras tell their stories The Isthmus “On Scott Rawson's first day, he stood in the same spot in shoes that were
too small. It wasn't until day two that he learned he could move around and — to
his delight — smoke! Rawson was cast as an extra in Public Enemies, the
Universal Pictures release that chronicles the true story of the oft-idolized
1930s bank robber John Dillinger. Over the course of a couple months in the
spring and summer of 2008, portions of the film were shot in various locations
throughout the state. From downtown Columbus to the Capitol Square, our neck of
the woods was an important backdrop to the action of Public Enemies, which stars
Johnny Depp and Christian Bale and was directed by Michael Mann. It opens
nationwide July 1.”
Public Enemies set builder recalls production challenges and triumphs The Isthmus “When friends and family learn that Chris Kilgour worked on the Public
Enemies set, they are most excited to hear about his interactions with Johnny
Depp and other big name celebrities. But what the Madison set builder wants
people to know is not how stars talk, walk and act when the cameras aren’t
rolling, but that there is a whole lot of hard work put in behind the scenes,
and it all deserves recognition. “Contrary to what many may think, it is indeed
hard work,” Kilgour says. “There are a lot of hours that go into it, and the
hours can get very long. Add that to having to work in every imaginable weather
challenge, from sub-zero and snow in Wisconsin to extreme heat, threatening
storms and heavy rain toward the end of the shoot in Illinois, as well as having
to coordinate ‘taking over’ existing buildings that have to essentially shut
down business during the construction and filming.”
How Wisconsin dropped some cash and got itself a big-time movie - State's own
cast of characters and tax breaks helped land 'Public Enemies' production Wisconsin Journal Sentinel “If the modern FBI was created in response to John Dillinger's Depression-era
crime spree, "Public Enemies," Michael Mann's film starring Johnny Depp, was
made in the image of the tax incentives that brought the film to Wisconsin.
Critics of the $4.6 million paid to the film wonder if, like the banks Dillinger
plundered, we wuz robbed. Advocates of the incentives argue that the money the
film brought to the state was improperly calculated. But both sides can agree
that the caliber of the artists that "Public Enemies" brought here, and the
spotlight that the film shines on the state, are also a measure of its success.”
Central Indiana keeps quiet Indy Star “While Northwest Indiana is celebrating its connection to John Dillinger,
Central Indiana -- where Dillinger was born, raised and buried -- remains
strangely quiet on the eve of the release of "Public Enemies." Crown Hill
Cemetery, Dillinger's final resting place, considered last-minute plans for a
special event featuring films about Dillinger. But it decided to stick with its
regularly scheduled "Dillinger & East Side Notables" tour on July 25. Keith
Norwalk, Crown Hill's president, said it will abstain from special events out of
respect for the cemetery's peaceful nature and to refrain from celebrating the
legacy of a criminal. On the Indiana Office of Tourism Development Web site,
travelers won't even find Dillinger in the "famous Hoosiers" section. Compare
that to Wisconsin, where the tourism department is promoting a "Gangster's Tour"
on its Web site, tracing the movements of both the real-life and the cinematic
Dillinger throughout the state.”
State tax incentives for films, television shows in limbo Oshkosh Northwestern MILWAUKEE (AP) — “Interest in filming movies and television shows in
Wisconsin has decreased drastically this year, with the future of the tax
incentives in limbo. Gov. Jim Doyle has proposed scrapping the incentives and
replacing them with a $500,000 annual grant program. The Legislature has
proposed some changes, but Doyle, who has last say, hasn’t said whether he
supports them. Last year at this time there were six films, including “Public
Enemies” which premeires Tuesday and was shot in part in Oshkosh, and a dozen TV
shows in production or preproduction. So far this year, Film Wisconsin, which
promotes filming in the state, has had only about six inquiries from films and a
handful from TV shows, said Executive Director Scott Robbe. There’s only one
independent film currently in pre-production in the state, Robbe said.”
Classic Car Show Organizers Recall Time On 'Public Enemies' Set Movie Filmed
In Several Wisconsin Locations WISC-TV Madison MADISON, Wis. – “The biggest gathering of authentic "Public Enemies" vehicles
since they were used in filming will be featured in a classic car show at
Portage Theatres on July 5 to coincide with the movie's opening weekend. The
Michael Mann film, which stars Johnny Depp, Christian Bale and Marion Cotillard,
tells the story of the legendary Depression-era bank robber John Dillinger
(Depp) and the FBI agent, Melvin Purvis (Bale), who hunted him. The film opens
nationwide on July 1.”
'Public Enemies' festival in St. Paul next month WKBT-TV CBS ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – “St. Paul will remember its "Public Enemies" past next
month. The downtown Landmark Center will host a series of events timed to the
release of the new movie starring Johnny Depp as John Dillinger. Landmark Center
is a former federal building where many criminals of the 1930s were brought to
justice. The retrospective kicks off July 10 with a lecture by author Bryan
Burrough, whose book was the basis for the "Public Enemies" film.”
Performing Arts
Music
Fine Arts Quartet ends June series with Haydn, Dvorak Milwaukee Journal Sentinel “The relaxed, generous expansion in the way violinist Ralph Evans phrased the
initial rising figure in Haydn's String Quartet Opus 76 No. 4 on Sunday exactly
embodied the nickname of this piece: "Sunrise." A little later, cellist Wolfgang
Laufer gave the same treatment to a near inversion of the violin figure to open
the second theme of this quartet. Evans, Laufer and their colleagues in the Fine Arts Quartet - violist
Chauncey Patterson and second violinist Efim Boico - had thought through this
music and executed the plan convincingly. In that first movement, for example,
they played the hastening second halves of the themes with more urgency, even
vehemence, when they recurred in the recapitulation. They clarified and
intensified the drama of the music as actors clarify and intensify the drama
slumbering in the words of a script.”
Fox Valley Symphony's concertmaster Bond Sutter stepping aside but keeping
busy Appleton Post-Crescent “To Appleton freelance musician Janet Bond Sutter, the violin is not an
instrument. It's an extension of herself. Bond Sutter, 61, is retiring as Fox
Valley Symphony concertmaster after 18 seasons, but she still is very much
involved in Appleton's classical music scene. She'll remain a section violin
player in the symphony and also continue on as its librarian. And in fall,
she'll take on a new role as conductor of the Lawrence Academy of Music's
Academy String Orchestra (ASTRO), an auditioned, entry-level string ensemble for
youth.”
Presenting
Country USA photos: Toby Keith, Jason Aldean booked for 2010 Oshkosh event Oshkosh Northwestern OSHKOSH — “A veteran country performer and a talented singer on the rise are
two headlining acts booked so far for Country USA 2010 in Oshkosh. Toby Keith,
who has wooed crowds before at the event, and the up-and-coming Jason Aldean
have been inked to contracts for next year's gathering at Ford Festival Park,
Dan Liebhauser, owner and promoter of Country USA, said on Sunday the final day
of this year's five-day gathering.”
Theater
Continuing coverage: An Open Letter to Skylight Third Coast Digest “Foreward from the Performing Arts Editor: It has been two weeks since the
firing of Skylight Opera’s Artistic Director Bill Theisen by its board, along
with several other positions including the company and box office manager. All
of this was a decision made as an expected operating loss of $100,000 at the end
of its fiscal year looms on June 30. The move, announced discretely two days after the firing, set off a firestorm
of criticism and one physical protest scene from the actors and crew who adored
Theisen, subscribers who then threatened to cancel their ticket orders for the
upcoming 50th Anniversary season for 2009-10, and the arts community in general.
Jamie Johns, who was the music director, openly and repeatedly criticized the
move and was fired for insubordination. Two board members, Robert Biel and Pat
Kraft, have resigned in protest.”
Lounging Around by Broom Street Theater is pleasant but transient The Isthmus “With Lounging Around, the folks at Broom Street Theater have achieved
something remarkable: They've made the interminable wait for a delayed flight
enjoyable, if not exhilarating. The action in this farce takes place entirely at
an airport gate. Fog has grounded all planes, leaving the passengers flying out
on Fantastical Airlines with nothing to do but gripe and trade stories, or head
offstage for a coffee, beer or pee break. They've got plenty of time, too, as
airline representative Cathy (Cassi Harris, evoking Best in Show's Jane Lynch at
her most tautly chipper) periodically pops in to inform them; her apologies as
the estimated wait time increases are as authentically empty as the slogan she
rattles off in a singsong.”
WHEN YOU GO
Visual Arts/Museums
Gimme 5 - Susan McLeod, Director of the Chippewa Valley Museum Talks about:
Fourth of July events at the museum. Eau Claire Leader-Telegram “Editor's note: "Gimme 5" is a five-question interview on topics of local
interest. When did the Old Fashioned Family Fourth of July get started? As far
as we can tell, the first Fourth of July celebration in Eau Claire was in 1858.
There's a long tradition of celebrating the Fourth of July, and there's a long
tradition of celebrating the Fourth in Carson Park. This particular event we've
been doing since 1993. The Paul Bunyan Museum has also planned things for the
last five or six years.”
Kara Patterson: Weidert finds his creative rhythm with new exhibit Appleton Post Crescent July 9
“Menasha graphic designer and visual communications specialist Joe Weidert
looks at a ketchup bottle and sees artistic promise. To create each piece in his
first studio art exhibit, "Line Dance," Weidert applied paint to glass panels,
the bottle his brush. He placed white lines at random, and then added color as
filler and background. Sometimes the abstract art gave way to recognizable
images, such as a flock of birds. "I really do allow it to be random," said
Weidert, 58, who ran the advertising agency Weidert Group and now works for a
media company called Atomic Tribe. "I really was using this experience to sort
of free up my own creative thinking. So much revolves around a business purpose
and I wanted to go back to being creative for creative's sake."
Community Arts
Music, Fun And Games Found At Summerfest Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Through July 5
MILWAUKEE – “Summerfest is known for the music, for the food and the fun. But
between the stages, the dining venues and the beer tents are a number of other
spots to check out -- places for fun and games. And video games. Thumbs can get
a workout at different locations in the park with Nintendo and Sony. “Basically,
we are here to promote the PlayStation 3,” said Drew Hove, manager of the
PlayStation Experience. “We show people what the console can do beyond the games
… the Blu-Ray player, and ordering movies and TV shows.”
Music with an accent – First Friday’s Milwaukee Journal Sentinel July 3
“Singer Jeff Ward brings a blend of Irish and Scottish music to Racine's
Music on the Monument on Friday. The free concert in Monument Square runs from
11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Concertgoers are invited to pack a picnic lunch or grab
a bite from a downtown lunch spot.”
Folk Arts/Folklife
Dorf Kapelle to play at Buttermilk Festival Fond du Lac Reporter July 1
“The Dorf Kapelle will return for its 13th Buttermilk Festival performance at
Buttermilk Creek Park at 7:15 p.m. Wednesday, July 1. The concert is
co-sponsored by Citizens First Credit Union, and Dr. Stephen and Robin Speidel.
Funding is also provided by the Friends of the Festival and a freewill offering
that will be received during the concert, according to an event press release.
The Dorf Kapelle (village band) was organized in 1988 by its leader, Earnest
Broenimann, a retired music teacher and recognized authority on European wind
music. Its wide and varied repertoire captures the folk style of the village
bands of Germany, Austria, Switzerland and the Czech Republic.”
Media Arts
Benefit showing of "Public Enemies" Milwaukee Journal Sentinel June 30
“You don't have to wait until Michael Mann's "Public Enemies" opens in
theaters Wednesday to see Johnny Depp as John Dillinger. You can see the film -
shot partly in Wisconsin - at a benefit screening for Film Wisconsin and the
Milwaukee County Historical Society at 8:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Marcus Majestic
Cinema in Brookfield. Tickets are $25.”
Documentary film features Manitowoc, Two Rivers Free screenings of feature
set to begin Wednesday Herald Times Reporter July 6
“A new documentary about Manitowoc and Two Rivers, titled "Wisconsin Hometown
Stories: Manitowoc-Two Rivers," will premiere at 8 p.m. July 6 on Wisconsin
Public Television. Two free public screenings will be held Wednesday. The first
will be at 2 p.m. in the Rocheleau Gym at the J.E. Hamilton Community House,
1520 17th St., Two Rivers. A second screening will take place at 7 p.m. at the
Capitol Civic Centre, 917 S. Eighth St., Manitowoc.”
Performing Arts
Music
Music with the animals Milwaukee Journal Sentinel July 1
Ever tap a toe with the rhythm of a rhino? Swing dance with a monkey watching
you? Listen to lounge music with a real lizard nearby? These first-time
experiences could be yours on Wednesday when 5 Card Studs, a Vegas-like lounge
band, performs among the exotic animals at the Milwaukee County Zoo. It's part
of Sunset Zoofari Concerts at 6 p.m. each Wednesday on the Flamingo Patio.
Asher Roth hasn't had time to absorb his quick success - April release got
noticed by fans and fellow rappers Milwaukee Journal Sentinel July 1
“There is really no such thing as "overnight success," but Asher Roth has gone
from budding rapper to near-superstar status at such speed that he has barely
had time to take in the rise. "I just got home for the first time in months and
months, and my mom brought me a Source magazine article where I'm mentioned a
lot," Roth said. "I'm really removed from that whole aspect of it. It's not my
reality," he said. "It's 'The Sims,' so I have this character I send this way
and that."”
Former 'Idol' contestant Gokey promotes Milwaukee Superior Telegram August 28
MILWAUKEE (AP) — “Former "American Idol" contestant Danny Gokey is promoting
his hometown of Milwaukee. Gokey says his favorite parts of Milwaukee are the
east side with its restaurants and shops, the Latin feel of the south side and
the lakefront. He describes Milwaukee as a family friendly city that represents
all cultures.”
Presenting
Andru Bemis, Michael Sienkowski, Ben Carroll The Isthmus June 29
“Modern Troubadours Andru Bemis and Michael Sienkowski (Whatfor) Headline Ben
Carroll’s soulful, powerful voice lives somewhere at the crossroads of Stevie
Wonder and James Taylor—he’s captivating, distinctive, mesmerizing. With the
help of his accomplished acoustic guitar playing, he moves his audiences with
his plaintive songwriting, written from the heart and with a thoughtful,
sometimes keen eye, while exploring the endless themes of love, of a search for
a place and meaning in the world.”
Other
Independent movie holds casting calls for actors in Milwaukee, Chicago Fox6Now Various Dates
MILWAUKEE (AP) — “A movie filming in Milwaukee is holding casting calls this
week. Producer Duane Journey says they want 20 to 22 actors for speaking roles
in "No God, No Monster." It's an independent film starring Oscar nominated David
Strathairn (streh-THEHRN') from "Goodnight and Good Luck." Journey says they are
casting Monday and Wednesday in Milwaukee and Tuesday in Chicago. They are using
talent agencies for those, but will do an open casting next week in Milwaukee if
they haven't found what they want. They will also hold open casting for extras
next week in Milwaukee. Journey expects 70 to 75 percent of the $5 million
budget to be spent in the Milwaukee area.”
VIDEO OF THE DAY
Amy Tan: Where does creativity hide?
“TED Talk: Novelist Amy Tan digs deep into the creative process, journeying
through her childhood and family history and into the worlds of physics and
chance, looking for hints of where her own creativity comes from. It's a wild
ride with a surprise ending.”
Tuesday, 6/30
FROM THE WISCONSIN ARTS BOARD
“Public
Enemies” Screenings will Roll Out the Red Carpet Film Wisconsin June 30 “On June 30, Madison, Milwaukee and Oshkosh will host a special
advance screening of "Public Enemies," the new action-thriller from Universal
Pictures that stars Johnny Depp, Christian Bale and Academy Award® winner
Marion Cotillard. The film is directed by UW-Madison graduate and acclaimed
filmmaker Michael Mann. Much of “Public Enemies” was filmed in Wisconsin,
including locations in Beaver Dam, Columbus, Darlington, Madison, Manitowish
Waters, Milwaukee, and Oshkosh. Now it’s time to step back for one night to
the Golden Age of Hollywood where gangster stars like Jimmy Cagney, Humphrey
Bogart, Edward G. Robinson and George Raft ruled the silver screen.”
IN THE NEWS
Visual Arts/Museums
Artsminded: Art camp holds special memory River
Falls Journal “Within trotting distance of River Falls and several other western Wisconsin
communities there are family farms that consistently include the arts as an
integral part of their creative rural vision. Some have transformed barns into
studios, galleries and performance spaces. Still others provide shelter and
succor to budding gardeners and fledgling artists. The Blue Horse Farm between
Roberts and New Richmond offers the unique Crayon Pony Summer Creative Arts
Camp. Under the mentorship of established artists and teachers, from Monday,
July 6, to Friday, July 10, (details in calendar below) junior and senior high
school students, ages 10-16, will take part in an experience that includes story
making, the creation of sets, puppets and sound, culminating in a stage
production the last day of camp.”
Arts and Creativity in Education
Small fire at kiln in Southern Bluffs Elementary School La Crosse
Tribune “Combustibles left on a kiln sparked a small fire Monday afternoon at a La
Crosse elementary school, La Crosse Fire Department officials said. The fire
happened about 3 p.m. Monday at Southern Bluffs Elementary School, 4010
Sunnyside Drive, officials said. It quickly was extinguished, with no reported
injuries. A pottery kiln in a small room next to the art room accidentally was
turned on, igniting materials on top, officials said.”
Literary
New Collection Gives Krazy Kat Lovers Seven Years CricketToes “It is a rare thing indeed when aficionados of the 2D art so humbly referred
to as the comic strip and critics who normally opine on what's subjectively and
divisively called "high art" come to an agreement on anything, but one work
dating from the first half of the 20th Century has continually managed to do
just that: George Herriman's Krazy Kat. Should you doubt the truth of what I've
stated above, thinking, "Cricky, you're even more of a nutjob than I thought," I
point you to art critic Gilbert Seldes' gushing tribute "The Krazy Kat That
Walks By Himself" included in his 1924 tome The Seven Lively Arts and E. E.
Cummings--or e. e. cummings if you're the fancy type--who wrote an introduction
to a collection of the strips published in 1946.”
Book traces history of floating boathouses Wisconsin
State Journal “The Mississippi River, even before Mark Twain spun tales of adventure on the
mighty waterway, has captivated countless people. More than anyone, perhaps, are
those who've lived in the little "boathouses" clustered along its banks.
"Boathouses" are not to be confused with houseboats that cruise up and down the
river. Or the boathouses built on shore that shelter nothing but boats. These
boathouses are year-round, stationary and can't move anywhere without being
pushed or towed. Poles at each corner keep them in place, and they're connected
to shore by walkways. They stand on logs or plastic barrels, freezing into the
ice in winter and floating in summer, moving up and down with changing water
levels. They're the humble homes of people and their boats.”
Media Arts
R.I.P. Tax Incentives Blog: Duane Dudek of the Journal
Sentinel “Wisconsin's brief fling with Hollywood has ended. Monday, on the eve of
tonight's benefit premiere of "Public Enemies," Gov. Jim Doyle signed a state
budget that reduced the amount of incentives available to filmmakers to
$500,000, according to this story by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Madison
bureau. Legislators had proposed $1.5 million. The original incentives were open ended, and subidized Michael Mann's film
about John Dillinger, to the tune of $4.6 million. The state claimed filmmakers
spent just $5 million while filming in Wisconsin, but supporters of the
incentives said that figure was under-reported. "Public Enemies," starring
Johnny Depp, filmed in Milwaukee, Madison, Darlington, Columbus, Oshkosh,
Manitowish Waters and other areas around the state. It opens nationally on
Wednesday.”
Also... Wisconsin's film tax incentive gets less attractive Appleton Post Crescent, Gannett Media
Group OSHKOSH — “When Johnny Depp and the "Public Enemies" gang left town after
filming last spring, it may have been the last prominent feature to take
advantage of the state's film incentives program. "Public Enemies" reaped the
benefits of the film program, receiving $4.6 million in tax credits as a result
of the $5 million it brought to the state. Seven other feature films and 16
television programs also took advantage of the incentive program in 2008, said
Scott Robbe, executive director for Film Wisconsin, which promotes filming in
the state.”
UW grad not afraid to make 'Enemies' in pursuit of
a great film 77 Square HOLLYWOOD -- “Hollywood is full of filmmakers who
are uncompromising perfectionists, but only Michael Mann could boast that he not
only has a favorite room to screen his films -- the Zanuck theater on the Fox
lot -- but also a favorite row in the theater where he thinks you should park
your fanny for the optimal viewing experience. "If you sit in row J at the
Zanuck, you'll find yourself in the perfect mean, the center of the bell curve
for every theater in America," he said while camped out in his Santa Monica
offices. We were surrounded by memorabilia from his work, which includes a host
of wildly compelling films and TV shows, including "Crime Story," "Heat," "The
Insider," "Ali" and "Collateral." ”
Also... Long wait for 'Public Enemies' nearly over; film
set to open here Wisconsin
State Journal “Columbus resident Rod Melotte is so excited to
see “Public Enemies” that he may levitate from his seat in the theater during
the film. Melotte will see the John Dillinger biopic Tuesday night at Eastgate
Cinema during a sold-out special screening for residents of Columbus, one of
many state locations able to boast “Johnny Depp was here.” “Public Enemies”
opens on more than 3,200 screens nationwide Wednesday.”
Northwoods Man an Extra in Public Enemies WJFW Rhinelander “A Rhinelander man could be seen in the new Public Enemies movie set to open
in theaters this Wednesday. Kevin Jenkins was chosen as an extra for a scene in
the film. He says he heard they were looking for extras, so he sent in a picture
and got to be in a scene shot in Madison. Jenkins says he was paid for his four
days of work, but says the experience was worth more than that. Jenkins says he
met actor Christian Bale whom he says was very nice. Public Enemies also filmed
in Manitowish Waters and Oshkosh. The film opens nationwide on Wednesday, July
1st.”
Fond du Lac County Takes Wireless Internet to the Max WBAY TV Green Bay “You may have heard of Wi-Fi, or wireless Internet, but how about WiMax? Fond
du Lac County is using it to become the first to create county-wide wireless
Internet access. James Brown is tired of slow Internet access. "I was on a
dial-up and it was very poor, the wiring out here." Brown said he's never had
access to high-speed, or broadband, Internet because no company offers cable in
his part of the county. But that's about to change.”
Kmotion Media: Works with WFRV to air one of first local HD TV spots WisBusiness Green Bay, WI – June 29, 2009 – “Kmotion Media recently worked on one of the
first local HD TV commercials to air in the Northeast Wisconsin market. HVS
Advertising - Marketing, a local advertising and marketing group with their
expertise firmly rooted in broadcast messaging, hired Kmotion Media to do the
motion graphics, animations and editing of the spot. Why Some HD Looks Better
Than Others The world of HD is very complex, and knowing how to correctly work
with HD files during all phases of production, post-production & delivery are
all key. You may have seen some HD spots that look incredibly crisp and vivid,
while others are less impressive. Lack of expertise in the technical side of HD
production can be to blame for poor display.”
Other
A Critic Runs Smack Into The 21st Century Minnesota
Orchestra/Inside the Classics “In what I can only describe as a distinctly English rant, Guardian art critic
Jonathan Jones tried to explain this weekend what makes him qualified to pass
judgment on other people's work..."The reason so much average or absolutely
awful art gets promoted is that no one seems to understand what criticism is; if
nothing is properly criticised, mediocrity triumphs. A critic is basically an
arrogant bastard who says 'this is good, this is bad' without necessarily being
able to explain why. At least, not instantly. The truth is, we feel this stuff
in our bones. And we're innately convinced we're right."”
WHEN YOU GO
Visual Arts/Museums
‘Reflections from the Great Lakes’ at Bonifas Daily Press Deadline: August 1 ESCANABA – “The William Bonifas Fine Arts Center is calling for entries in
all media from Native American artists in Michigan and Wisconsin. Submissions
for "Reflections from the Great Lakes" must be received at the Arts Center by
Saturday, Aug. 1. The exhibit seeks to introduce and showcase current work of
Native American artists and encourage the creativity of native crafters. Special
attention will be given to art work inspired by cultural heritage. All mediums
are welcome. Entry is open to all Native American residents ages 18 and older of
Michigan and Wisconsin. There are no size limitations. To encourage new work,
pieces must have been completed within the last two years and must be original
work from idea to product.”
Dillinger exhibit at Oshkosh museum WKOW-TV Madison Through October 18 OSHKOSH (WKOW) -- The Oshkosh Public Museum has a John Dillinger exhibit on
display just in time for the "Public Enemies" movie based on the gangster's
life. The exhibit has all kinds of memorabilia, including guns on and clothing
worn back in the 1930's. There is also 1930s-era movie theater that shows a
Dillinger biography. Actors roaming the exhibit portray characters from back in
the day, including FBI agents, bartenders and bank tellers.
Community Arts
Auditions: StageQ July 19 “Three ladies of NALOG (North American Lady Organists Guild) spread the
gospel, touring as “The Stops,” an Andrews Sisters-esque trio of different
faiths united in their love of song. Ginny, Euglena and Rose kibbutz, schmooze,
and regale us with the musical rep of their mentor, recently outed Dale Meadows,
whose church songs run the comedy gamut from “It’s Raining Amen,” and “A Bossa
Nova for Jehovah,” to “Hallelujah Aloha,” and “The Fundamental.” The Stops
takes Christian fundamentalism and turns it on its head, all the while serving
up heaping portions of wicked fun and honest-to-God joy. “The Stops” runs
October 30 – November 21 at the Bartell Theater. There will be a first
rehearsal/read-through on July 27, and then rehearsals will begin in earnest
after Labor Day. “The Stops” is directed by JS Fauquet, and written by Drew
Emery and Eric Lane Barnes. There are roles for three men (yes, men!) playing
the three church ladies. All three roles require strong singing and acting
abilities, and willingness to dress in drag. The audition will consist of cold
readings from the script, improv, plus learning a song with the director. Wear
clothes that you can move easily in. Auditions are at 6:30 pm on Sunday, July
19, at 148 E Wilson Street, first floor, in Madison. Auditions are one night
only. If you can't make that night, please contact stops@stageq.com to schedule
another time.”
Performing Arts
Dance
'Thriller' dance workshop on Thursday 77 Square July 2 “Of all of Michael Jackson's famous moves, the one that seems to spark the
imagination most is the dance from his 1983 hit 'Thriller.' Most recently, the
famous dance has been parodied in a commercial for Sobe Life Water, taught to
prisoners in a jail in Philippines, and danced by Jennifer Garner in '13 Going
on 30.' This Thursday, Madisonians have the chance to learn the most
recognizable sections of Thriller dance for themselves, thanks to a workshop
fundraiser being held by Dance Fabulous of Madison.”
Music
2009-2010 Season Tickets are ON SALE NOW! Fox
Valley Symphony Now Available “The season starts on October 3 with our Opening Night Gala. Learn more about
our concerts, the music you will be hearing, and our guest artists. Click here
to download your order form. You can order by mail, fax, or phone. You can also
drop off your order at the FVS offices at 111 West College Avenue, Suite 550,
Appleton WI. (We are on the fifth floor of the Appleton Arts Center). Season
ticket holders receive a special offer in the summer to purchase additional
single tickets at reduced prices before they go on sale to the general public.
Just call (920)968-0300 ext. 23 to order or get more information.”
VIDEO OF THE DAY
Public Enemies Trailer #2
On the occaision of today’s Advance Screenings in Madison, Milwaukee, and
Oshkosh, we feature Public Enemies Trailer #2.
Wednesday, 7/1
SPECIAL EDITION:
Reviews Are In – Public Enemies = Public Wow!
“Public Enemies exceeded Film
Wisconsin’s predictions regarding its
impact on our state’s citizens, businesses, communities and economy. Wisconsin
was ready for its close up and it looks beautiful on the big screen!
The film’s reviews are in and they will help make Public Enemies the summer
blockbuster we knew it would be! You will find links to the reviews below my
signature.
Congratulations and thank you to everyone involved!”
George
QUOTE OF THE
DAY
“We chose a damn good movie for our big starring role,
Wisconsin.”
Rob Thomas/77 Square
“It's exciting. The aura is here, the energy is here. We're excited to see
the premiere," Wendy Hielsberg, Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce
"If you really take a look at it, you're kind of throwing away the goose
that lays the golden egg and saying, 'Oh, I want more eggs.' This was good for
the state of
Wisconsin and we've killed the goose right
now," Nancy Osterhaus commenting on Film Incentives in
Wisconsin
But First – The Film Incentive Issue:
'Public Enemies' shows
film incentives wise Capital Times - An editorial — 7/01/2009
5:23 am “An embarrassing display of ignorance characterized the arguments
of those who hoped to do away with
Wisconsin's film incentives program. Of
course, as those arguments were coming from the state Department of Commerce,
an agency that has presided over the collapse of whole industries in recent
years, we probably should not have been surprised. Considering the agency's
track record of mangled management, misguided strategizing and incredible
ineptness, it somehow fit that Commerce Department mandarins were arguing --
along with Gov. Jim Doyle -- that there was something wrong with the program
that effectively restarted Wisconsin's film industry after many years of
neglect.”
Incentives key to future filmmaking in
Wisconsin Oshkosh Northwestern “When Johnny Depp and the rest of the "Public Enemies" gang rolled
out of town after filming was done last spring, it wasn't the first time
Wisconsin had played a role in a major motion
picture. Portions of other well-known motion pictures, including "The Blues
Brothers," "Major League," "Back to School," and "Chain Reaction," were filmed
in
Wisconsin, but those were filmed before film
incentives became a key component to bringing film and television crews to the
state. "Public Enemies," was the first big-budget production to reap the
benefits of the state's film incentives program, receiving $4.6 million in tax
credits as a result of the $5 million it brought to the state. Seven other
feature films and 16 television programs also took advantage of the incentive
program in 2008, said Scott Robbe, executive director for Film
Wisconsin, which promotes filming in the
state.”
Discussion: Gov. Doyle guts state film incentives in latest budget Dane101 “When Governor Doyle signed the latest state budget, he also vetoed
several of the proposals in the film incentives provision. There had been
considerable debate amongst state lawmakers, most notably within the
Department of Commerce, over whether or not the incentives were bringing in
enough money. Public opinion seemed to run against them, though. Lt. Governor
Barbara Lawton and state Rep. Tamara Grigsby had both fought to keep the
incentives, but to alter them slightly to make more economic sense ("...a
requirement that 35 percent of a film be shot in Wisconsin, and the closing of
a loophole that allows non-state residents to receive a larger credit than
Wisconsinites.")
Film Incentives
Left on Cutting Room Floor WBAY TV
Green Bay With a special premiere in
Oshkosh and other cities, "Public Enemies" opens
in
Wisconsin one day after the governor announced
the State is going to limit film tax credits. Some film makes say "Public
Enemies" may be the last prominent movie to take advantage of
Wisconsin's film incentive program. Film
makers say the tax credits made
Wisconsin a popular place, and many of them
are not happy about the change. "Now the governor has cut it down to, I think,
it's like 500K for the entire year, which is going to be, that's going to be
overlooked by almost everybody," Tom Davenport of RDImages said.
Why the Film Tax Credits are Good for
Wisconsin - Objection: The tax credits "are a
wash." Blog: The Chief “Contra Objection: The numbers just aren't in yet. Right now the
only figures that get thrown around in the debate over the film credits are
these:A Commerce Department review of the "Public Enemies" film showed that
while it brought about $5 million in economic activity to the state, it
collected $4.6 million in tax breaks. But according to the "head of the state
film office" (whatever that means, presumably Film Wisconsin) "Public Enemies"
will have added $18 million to the state when all is said and done.”
R.I.P. Tax Incentives Blog: Duane Dudek of the Journal Sentinel
“Wisconsin's brief fling with
Hollywood has ended. On Monday, on the eve of
tonight's benefit premiere of "Public Enemies," Gov. Jim Doyle signed a state
budget that reduced the amount of incentives available to filmmakers to
$500,000, according to this story by the Journal Sentinel Madison bureau.
Legislators had proposed $1.5 million. The original incentives were open-ended
and subidized Michael Mann's film about John Dillinger to the tune of $4.6
million. The state claimed filmmakers spent just $5 million while filming in
Wisconsin, but supporters of the
incentives said that figure was under-reported.”
The Movie: National Reviews
Seduction by Machine Gun
By MANOHLA DARGIS, The New York Times
Public Enemies has been designated a Critic's Pick by the film reviewers of
The New York Times. “Michael Mann’s “Public Enemies” is a grave and beautiful
work of art. Shot in high-definition digital by a filmmaker who’s helping
change the way movies look, it revisits with meticulous detail and convulsions
of violence a short, frantic period in the life and bank-robbing times of John
Dillinger, an
Indiana farm boy turned Depression
outlaw, played by a low-voltage Johnny Depp. Much of what makes the movie
pleasurable is the vigor with which it restages our familiar romance with
period criminals, a perennial affair. But what also makes it more than the sum
of its spectacular shootouts is the ambivalence about this romance that seeps
into the filmmaking, steadily darkening the skies and draining the story of
easy thrills.”
Dillinger
Captured by Dogged Filmmaker!
By MARK HARRIS, The New York Times “It’s a
Hollywood truism that for every movie that
sees the light of day, a hundred others languish in the purgatory (or worse)
of development. But how many movies owe their very existence to a roster of
films that never happened? Such is the case with Michael Mann’s “Public
Enemies,” a dual portrait of the bank robber John Dillinger (Johnny Depp) and
Melvin Purvis (Christian Bale), the young, ambitious F.B.I. agent who took him
down.”
Public Enemies
By Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun Times "I rob banks," John Dillinger would sometimes say by way of
introduction. It was the simple truth. That was what he did. For the 13 months
between the day he escaped from prison and the night he lay dying in an alley,
he robbed banks. It was his lifetime. Michael Mann's "Public Enemies" accepts
that stark fact and refuses any temptation to soften it. Dillinger was not a
nice man.
Public Enemies: Review
By Peter Travers, Rolling Stone “Infamous bank robber John Dillinger was at the movies on the
steamy July night in 1934 when FBI agents gunned him down outside
Chicago's Biograph Theatre. In Michael Mann's
jolting Public Enemies, sparked by a ball-of-fire Johnny Depp as Dillinger,
America's most wanted man sits in a crowded theater watching Manhattan
Melodrama, starring Clark Gable as a racketeer facing the electric chair with
attitude — "Die like you live: all of a sudden." Hearing the line brings a
smile to Dillinger's lips. Depp cannily plays the moment as an acknowledgment
of how
Hollywood romanticizes gangster life
in contrast to the bruising reality. The gulf between the two — violence
giving way to existential angst — is what gives Public Enemies its explosive
kick.”
A Little Depp'll Do Ya! Johnny Gets His Gun
By Rex Reed,
New York Observer “America's
enduring obsession with the folk-hero outlaws and gangsters of the 1930s is
about to get ratcheted up a few notches. Ace director Michael Mann’s Public
Enemies, with Johnny Depp as an unlikely but undeniably mesmerizing John
Dillinger, opens on July 1, but I liked it so much I am compelled to write
about it early. I don’t think anyone will mind. Thrilling, glamorous, richly
textured and breathlessly action-packed, it is one of the best movies of the
year.”
Public Enemies
By Michael Phillips,
Chicago Tribune “You don't go to a Michael Mann movie for realism. You go for the
sleek, threatening glamour of crime and punishment. From "Thief" to "Heat" to
"Collateral" to another vein of wrongdoing in "The Insider," his films
ruminate, beautifully, as they place their characters in settings of
insinuating darkness, hunter versus the hunted, brothers under the skin.
Mann's latest is "Public Enemies," starring Johnny Depp as charismatic
Depression-era outlaw John Dillinger and Christian Bale as G-man Melvin
Purvis. It's a fascinating bundle of contradictions -- authentic in a million
details, deeply romanticized in others. Cool, calm and collected, this is more
love story than gangster picture -- Marion Cotillard, Oscar winner for "La Vie
En Rose," plays Dillinger's lover, Billie Frechette -- and it's more vivid
around the edges than at its center. Yet a genuine filmmaking intelligence
guides every scene, even the frustrating ones.”
Depp's 'Public Enemies': Dillinger captured at last
By Claudia Puig,
USA TODAY “Public Enemies is a welcome adult alternative to summer's
sophomoric blockbusters. The only transforming going on here is actors
skillfully taking on roles of '30s-era gangsters and lawmen.”
Review: 'Public Enemies'
By Kenneth Turan, Los Angeles Times “It was the movies that killed John Dillinger -- Gangster No. 1
until he was gunned down outside a
Chicago theater after taking in the pictures one
hot night in 1934 -- and it was the movies that brought him back to life. More
than once. But this time it's different. This time Michael Mann is in charge.
Win, lose or draw, Mann, director of "Heat," "Ali," "The Insider" and the
current "Public Enemies," is inescapably one of the masters of modern American
cinema. He's a restless soul, a striver, pushing his work toward dramatic
intensity and the recapturing and recasting of reality. Mann often wants to do
traditional films but do them differently, do them better, enabling the
audience to feel both the newness and the tradition. With "Public Enemies," he
has made an impressive film of great formal skill, one that inescapably has a
brooding dark-night-of-the-soul quality about it. Simultaneously an art film
and a crime film, Mann's latest work (he shares screenplay credit with Ronan
Bennett and Ann Biderman) may not give you a ton to hang on to emotionally,
but the beauty and skill of the filmmaking keep you tightly in its grasp.”
Gangster Love - With ‘Public Enemies,’
Hollywood renews its age-old romance with the
gangster epic Wall Street Journal “Gangster films endure because the best of them mirror the
essential issues of their time. A depiction of Prohibition-era corruption
fueled “The Racket,” a Howard Hughes film from 1928 based on a play banned in
Chicago. In 1983, Brian De Palma’s “Scarface”
told a tale of bloody upward mobility among Cuban immigrants in
Miami. And in 1991, “NewJackCity” tracked the spread of crack cocaine in the
black inner city. Now, Michael Mann, the director of “The Insider” and “Heat”
is putting his stamp on the genre with “Public Enemies.” The $100 million
production, which opens next week, stars Johnny Depp as John Dillinger, who
led a brief but explosive bank-robbing spree during the Great Depression.
“Public Enemies” is arriving in the midst of the biggest economic crisis since
that time. As a preamble to the film reminds viewers, resentment of banks was
peaking in the 1930s when Dillinger’s crime rampage turned him into a media
darling and, according to the
U.S. government, Public
Enemy No. 1.”
The Movie:
Wisconsin Reviews
Satisfying
'Public Enemies' more than a gangster movie Blog: 77 Square Rob Thomas “If any movie genre would seem to resist reinvention, it's the
period gangster movie. From "White Heat" to "Road to Perdition," we know the
iconography; men in hats, bank robberies, and guns a-blazing everywhere.
"Public Enemies" knows the language of the gangster movie so well, and yet
director Michael Mann has taken it and created something exciting and new out
of it. "Enemies" is thrilling, at times shocking in its violence, but it's
also unexpectedly intimate, staying in close with its characters at every
turn, never letting them escape into archetype.”
Public Enemies: Good but not Deep By Duane Dudek,
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel “Spare the rod or spoil the film? Should "Public Enemies" be judged
on its merit, or do its
Wisconsin connections mean it gets graded on a
curve? With its reported $90 million budget subsidized by $4.6 million in
state tax credits, "Public Enemies" is as much a work of public art as a blue
shirt at the airport or the Di Suvero sunburst. And just as controversial, if
efforts to neutralize the incentives are any indication. The result, opening
in theaters Wednesday, is a technically astute and celebrity-charged
manifestation of overreach.”
Depp Lights Up The Screen In 'Public Enemies' WISC-TV 3000
Madison MADISON, Wis. – “Although released in the summer season, a time
when over-the-top action flicks and bloated blockbusters flood movie screens,
the 1930s gangster epic "Public Enemies" isn't typical summer fare. Sure,
there are big-name stars -- Johnny Depp, Christian Bale and Academy Award
winner Marion Cotillard. But rather than breezy, escapist entertainment,
Michael Mann's ambitious film delivers a serious, moody take on "the golden
age of bank robbery," a period around 1933-34 when legendary outlaw John
Dillinger and other daring gangsters embarked on an unprecedented crime wave
of bank robberies, grabbing headlines and becoming folk heroes in the
process.”
Wisconsin stars in Public Enemies WKOW-TV
Madison MADISON (WKOW) -- “Wisconsin
stars on the big screen as the movie Public Enemies plays for the first time
at theatres. Because this was one of the filming locations,
Madison had one of the advance showings of the
movie starring Johnny Depp. Most who attended were scanning the screen for
their friends, their city or their car. Once in a lifetime for Mark Peters,
whose car was featured in numerous Public Enemies scenes. Including one where
Depp stands on the driver's side of the car, while Mark is at the wheel.”
Editorial: Enjoy the spotlight,
Oshkosh; you earned it Appleton Post Crescent "Public Enemies" premieres in
Oshkosh,
Wis., Tuesday. This is not
Los Angeles or
Chicago, even
Milwaukee or
Madison, but we landed a plum spot
in the film's lore. Enjoy the spotlight
Oshkosh; you earned it. This city
has known highs and lows over its 156 years. Certainly, the filming of the
major Hollywood production in the city in April 2008 represents a
high point in the short term.
Whether it earns an honorable mention or represents something more in the
city's long and proud history depends greatly on whether we embrace the
lessons of the filming and the story it tells.
Also...
Public Enemies exhibit opens at the Oshkosh Public Museum The Isthmus “It hardly seems like it's been over a year since Public Enemies,
opening in theaters nationwide on July 1, was filming in the streets and
buildings of cities across
Wisconsin. But while that time
flew by for me, at least, the folks at the
OshkoshPublicMuseum were busy using it to compile and
coordinate an impressive collection of Public Enemies-related artifacts and
reproductions for a new exhibit. The museum, half a mile from the UW-Oshkosh
campus, is probably most renowned for its eight-foot tall Apostle's Clock.
This ornate and intricate grandfather clock was completed in 1895 and
acquired by the museum in 1948. Public schools in
Oshkosh and the
FoxValley make regular trips to see this massive
artifact, and rightfully so -- it is both beautiful and imposing.”
The downtown 'Enemies' changeover Appleton Post
Crescent “Actual businesses gave way to fake ones created for filming scenes from
"Public Enemies." The businesses affected and their new personas are listed
below.”
Seeing the trailer was a 'goose-bump moment' for 'Enemies' extra Appleton Post
Crescent “The cold, wet and bloody feet he earned during his day as a reporter
were worth it. A year after Brian Binder spent the day at Wittman Regional
Airport during filming of “Public Enemies,” Binder saw the results of his
work after going through the film’s trailer frame by frame. “I saw the back
of my head and the camera I was holding,” Binder said. “It was kind of
goose-bump moment.”
'Public
Enemies' Taking Over
Oshkosh WBAY-TV
Green Bay “Before the nationwide opening of the film "Public Enemies"
Wednesday there is a sneak peek in
Oshkosh, where part of the
big-budget motion picture was filmed. A year after the filming, gangsters
and Tommy guns returned to the streets of
Oshkosh -- this time to honor the
film's premiere. "It's completely being fake, so we're all good," former
mayor
FrankTower said. The city is very proud to be part of
the film, starring Johnny Depp and Christian Bale. Hundreds of people have
been coming to check out downtown to see how
Oshkosh was turned into
Hollywood. "It's exciting. The
aura is here, the energy is here. We're excited to see the premiere," Wendy
Hielsberg of the Oshkosh Convention and Visitors Bureau said.”
Oshkosh rolls out the red carpet
for Public Enemies Oshkosh Northwestern OSHKOSH — “Tuesday’s daylong “Public Enemies” celebration was
about the filming of scenes downtown and, of course, Johnny Depp, but it was
also about Oshkosh. With a free Live at Lunch concert, a gangster-era
exhibit at the
OshkoshPublicMuseum, a VIP fundraiser to support
the downtown façade renovation program and Film
Wisconsin, extras from the region posing for
pictures, and special advance screenings of the film,
Oshkosh took its turn on the red
carpet and shined by most accounts… Extras with guns - Appleton's Jerry
Beyer walked out of the First National Bank building Tuesday afternoon and
immediately recognized the rare privilege he was being afforded. “This is
the only day of the year, probably in my life, that I can brandish a
sub-machine gun in the middle of downtown,” the well-dressed Beyer
commented. “It's great. I love the gangster era, so it's a dream come true.”
Public Enemies extras celebrate
Madison premiere The Isthmus “Old-fashioned cars lined
East Wilson Street Tuesday
night, ladies smeared on bright red lipstick and pinned back their hair and a
few gentlemen even sported top hats and canes. Celebrating the release of the
ultra-hyped movie, Public Enemies, locals who worked as extras in the movie
along with their families and friends joined Arts Wisconsin and Film
Wisconsin at a release party at the
Hilton Monona Terrace. State Sen. Kim Hixson, a Democrat who moved to
Whitewater 13 years ago to teach advertising at the University, fit his role
as a reporter perfectly and is excited to see if he can claim his 5 minutes --
or seconds -- of fame in the movie. "The entire movie experience is just a
blast," Hixson said. "I got to walk with Christian Bale through the Capitol
but he wanted to stay in character so he stayed very serious and soft-spoken."
Working with Johnny Depp: Public Enemies extras tell their stories The Isthmus “On Scott Rawson's first day, he stood in the same spot in shoes
that were too small. It wasn't until day two that he learned he could move
around and — to his delight — smoke! Rawson was cast as an extra in Public
Enemies, the Universal Pictures release that chronicles the true story of the
oft-idolized 1930s bank robber John Dillinger. Over the course of a couple
months in the spring and summer of 2008, portions of the film were shot in
various locations throughout the state. From downtown
Columbus to the
Capitol Square, our neck of
the woods was an important backdrop to the action of Public Enemies, which
stars Johnny Depp and Christian Bale and was directed by Michael Mann. It
opens nationwide July 1.”
Depp _ and Chicago _ star in 'Public Enemies' film Shoot Online CHICAGO – “Whether moviegoers buy
Johnny Depp as John Dillinger or believe that public enemy No. 1 was actually
a goodhearted bank robber remains to be seen. But as "Public Enemies" opens
this week, one thing that may help viewers travel back in time is that Depp
drove the same streets, emerged from the same theater and pretended to die in
the same alley where the feds plugged Dillinger full of lead more than 70
years ago. Take a bow,
Chicago. The marquee may proclaim
the film stars Depp, Christian Bale and Marion Cotillard, but the credits
could just as easily included
Chicago _ and the
Midwest in general. Director Michael Mann said
filming on location at spots like
Chicago's Biograph Theater and Little Bohemia
Lodge in
Wisconsin, where a gun battle
erupted between Dillingers' gang and the feds, were instrumental in bringing
Dillinger's story to life.”
Being 'too nice' causes one extra to go from businessman to hobo Oshkosh Northwestern “Self-proclaimed movie buff Jerry Beyer is the kind of guy who will
be glued to a film from the beginning to the end of the credits. Special
Section: But Beyer, a 38-year-old sales manager from
Appleton, had no idea just how many
people are involved in the creation of a major motion picture until he spent
three days on the set of “Public Enemies” last spring as an extra. He’s hoping
to spot himself in a bank robbery scene shot downtown once “Public Enemies”
makes its national debut July 1. In that scene, Beyer is standing directly
behind a pharmacist who gets shot.”
Giving 'Public Enemies' its
props Beaver Dam Daily Citizen COLUMBUS — “Getting a souvenir from
the era of "Public Enemies" is a little easier than you might think. There is
no need to get in trouble with
Columbus police by trying to take
bricks from the buildings. Items very similar to what will be seen in the
movie are available for sale at the Columbus Antique Mall & Museum, 239
Whitney St. "We don't know what is in the movie and what's not in the movie,
but we know the exact same purse was sold to (Universal Studios)," Columbus
Antique Mall & Museum owner Dan Amato said. "Some things similar to the things
here may be in the movie. They did buy other things in other antique malls and
in other states." "Public Enemies" opens nationwide on Wednesday. The movie
brought huge crowds to the area last year when Johnny Depp walked the streets
of
Columbus, Beaver Dam,
Madison,
Milwaukee,
Oshkosh and Manitowish Waters.”
Public
Enemies Premiere Party TMJ-4
Milwaukee MILWAUKEE – “The Milwaukee County Historical
Society played host to Tuesday's
Hollywood style premiere party of Public
Enemies. The film, with an all-star cast including Johnny Depp and Christian
Bale, was filmed partially in
Wisconsin, in cities like
Columbus, Darlington,
Oshkosh, Beaver Dam,
Madison,
Milwaukee, and Manitowish Waters.
About 200 people attended the premiere party, where they got to look at period
costumes used in the film, were invited inside the bank vault used in a bank
robbery scene, and walked on a red carpet.”
'Public Enemies'
Extras See if They Made the Final Cut WBAY-GreenBay “Tuesday night brought a moment of truth for more than 100 extras
who participated in the filming of "Public Enemies" in
Oshkosh. A VIP ticket gave filmgoers
a special screening at
OshkoshMarcusCinemas the night before the Johnny Depp film's
nationwide release.”
Johnny Depp's Dillinger movie opens today Eau Claire Leader Telegram “The thing you need to know about John Dillinger is that when he
robbed a bank, he leaped over the desks and chairs. This was not a guy who
ghosted in and sidled out, or who quietly slid notes to tellers.”
From behind the scenes to the silver screen - Pair of local men worked on
movie 'Public Enemies' Appleton Post Crescent “When Scott Matula and David Rosenthal get their first full look at the
gangster movie "Public Enemies," which stars Johnny Depp as legendary bank
robber John Dillinger, the two
Sheboygan men will be looking closely for their
own contributions to the film, part of which was filmed in
Wisconsin. Matula, 40, president of Aspire
Architecture & Design, served as a set designer for the movie. His job was to
help transform vintage building fronts in
Columbus and
Oshkosh into what they would have
looked like in the early 1930s, when the film is set. "I've already looked on
the (movie) commercials and it's like, 'Wow, I did that' and, 'This was
such-and-such location' and I was just curious what everything looks like,"
said Matula, who will get his first private screening of "Public Enemies"
tonight in
Oshkosh. The movie opens nationwide
on Wednesday.”
Oshkosh gets early look at 'Enemies' Oshkosh Northwestern OSHKOSH – “Johnny Depp's new movie,
"Public Enemies," opens nationwide Wednesday. Part of the film was shot last
year in our area, leading to a sneak peek in
Oshkosh where a lucky few got to see
it early. From the streets of
Oshkosh to the silver screen, Public Enemies has
Northeast Wisconsin on the edge of its seat.
"For it to come to fruition is a big deal for us, very exciting," Kenneth
Scott, an extra in the film, said.”
'Public Enemies' extras hopeful for a flicker of screen time Appleton Post
Crescent OSHKOSH — “For the last year,
locals who were extras on the “Public Enemies” set have excitedly told
anybody who would listen they might appear the much-anticipated film about
gangster John Dillinger. Tonight, at a special advance screening, they find
out whether they’ve achieved cinematic immortality or are consigned to the
obscurity of the cutting room floor. “I’m trying to stay positive, but they
shot every scene 10 or 20 times,” extra Andy McNamara, 31, of
Appleton, said. “They have 20
angles to choose from and I might not be in the one angle they pick.””
Northwoods gearing up for 'Enemies' FOX 11 WOODRUFF (AP) – “Extras from the movie "Public Enemies" are
attending premiere parties in northern
Wisconsin. The free publication
"This Week In the Northwoods" is holding screenings and parties in Woodruff
Wednesday and in
EagleRiver Thursday. Crews from the movie about John
Dillinger filmed in northern
Wisconsin at Little Bohemia Lodge.
It's the actual location where a gun battle erupted between Dillingers' gang
and the federal authorities in 1934.”
"Public
Enemies" Opens In
Wisconsin TMJ-4
Milwaukee MILWAUKEE – “The Milwaukee
Historical Society was looking the part Tuesday night. The regal building was
filled with partiers in period costume celebrating the premier of "Public
Enemies." Much of the Johnny Depp vehicle about gangster John Dillinger was
filmed in
Wisconsin. "I went to one of my
talent agencies. They told us I was supposed to show up here," explained
8-year-old Tyler McDonald as he adjusted the newspapers with John Dillinger
headlines he had tucked under his arm. "I’m supposed to be a 1920’s newspaper
boy. I’m just here to pass out newspapers for free." ”
Tax
Incentives Debated As Film Arrives In Theaters - 'Public Enemies' Shot In
Madison,
Columbus WISC-TV
Madison COLUMBUS, Wis. -- “Wisconsin communities like Madison, Columbus and
Oshkosh enjoyed a brush with Hollywood glamour after serving as the backdrop
for several scenes for the new Johnny Depp-starring movie "Public Enemies." As
the movie receives a nationwide release on Wednesday, the dollars that brought
that film production to the
BadgerState last year continue to be up for debate. When
Gov. Jim Doyle signed off on the budget legislation on Tuesday, he cut film
tax incentives from $1.5 million to just $500,000 a year, saying $1.5 million
is just excessive in this belt-tightening time.”
Classic Car Show Organizers Recall Time On 'Public Enemies' Set Movie Filmed
In Several
Wisconsin Locations Channel 3000.com MADISON,
Wis. -- “The biggest gathering of authentic "Public
Enemies" vehicles since they were used in filming will be featured in a
classic car show at Portage Theatres on July 5 to coincide with the movie's
opening weekend. The Michael Mann film, which stars Johnny Depp, Christian
Bale and Marion Cotillard, tells the story of the legendary Depression-era
bank robber John Dillinger (Depp) and the FBI agent, Melvin Purvis (Bale), who
hunted him. The film opens nationwide on July 1.”
Don't expect history lesson in 'Public Enemies' Portage Daily Register “All right, I know we don't go to see summer blockbuster films to
get an education. We go to them to be entertained. So when you go to see
"Public Enemies," the Johnny Depp vehicle in which he plays Indiana bank
robber John Dillinger, take some of what appears on the screen with a grain of
salt or two. I'm not going to spoil the movie for you by giving you too much
information, but as an amateur student of Depression-era bandits I'll clue you
in a little on what's real and what's not in the film that opens today across
the country.”
Historical Society Misses Great
Opportunity Dane101 “With director Michael Mann's Public Enemies opening today, it
occurred to me that the Wisconsin Historical Society squandered a wonderful
opportunity to draw visitor into the Museum and/or the Archives down on
campus. The film is about the bank robber John Dillinger and his fellow
gangsters who plundered their way through the
Midwest in 1933-34. Sure, Dillinger was
famously gunned down by G-men in front of the Biograph Theater in
Chicago in 1934, but he and his gang
were no strangers to The Land of Cheese. Here in
Wisconsin, they hit the American Bank and
Trust Co. in
Racine. In April 1934, the gang hid
out at the Little Bohemia Lodge up north in Manitowish Waters. Dillinger even
adopted the pseudonym "Jimmy Lawrence", which was the name of a petty criminal
from our fair state.”
WHEN YOU GO
Media Arts
Beaver Dam:
Public Enemies show times listed Beaver Dam Daily Citizen “There are four showings of the movie "Public Enemies" at the
Rogers Cinema 5 today. "Public Enemies" will be shown at the theater in Beaver
Dam from today through July 9 at 12:45 p.m., 3:45 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 9:45
p.m. The movie featuring Johnny Depp and Christian Bale was filmed last spring
in locations throughout
Wisconsin including Beaver Dam and
Columbus.”
'Enemies' times Portage Daily Register Area showings include:
• Portage Theatres, first showings today, 12:45, 3:40, 6:30 and 9:35 p.m.
• Desert Star Cinema, Wisconsin Dells, first showings today, 12:45, 4, 7:10
and 10:30 p.m.
• Eastgate Cinema, Madison, first showings today, 10 a.m., 10:45 a.m., noon,
12:45, 1:30, 3, 3:45, 4:30, 6, 6:45, 8:45, 9:30 and 10 p.m.
WAB Wisconsin Arts News is a free service of the Wisconsin Arts Board, the state agency responsible for the support and development of the arts in Wisconsin. These articles are from a variety of
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