:::::::::::::::

PODCASTS:

Subscribe to THE GUATEMALAN HANDSHAKE PODCAST via iTunes. Episodes are being updated every week documenting the
journey taken by fearless promoters Dylan, Chris and Jared in their efforts to bring the electric ComutaCar to Park City, UT for the
world premiere at the Slamdance Film Festival. Future podcats will contain music from the soundtrack, behind the scenes footage and
clips from the road. Think of it as supplemental DVD features without having to buy a DVD.

Read an article by Edward McPherson from the NEW YORK OBSERVER about how the donation of his couch saved the production
of THE GUATEMALAN HANDSHAKE.

Read a KIND REVIEW by Bob Nowotny from NeedToVent.com about our very own movie.

:::::::::::::::
:: 01-30-06 - Special ::

THE GUATEMALAN HANDSHAKE was awarded a SPECIAL JURY PRIZE at the 2006 Slamdance Film Festival.
The festival screenings in Park City, Utah were sold out and riotous. Thank you to all who attended, supported and promoted.
Notes, photos and video will be available soon.

A screening in Harrisburg, PA is set for Saturday May 6th at the Carlisle Theater. This screening will be open to the public as
a thank you to the community who supported this film from the beginning. Again...more details to come and additional screenings
to be announced.

Also...Podcast content coming soon -- "The GH, Part One - Bringing the C-Car to Park City, Utah"

:::::::::::::::
:: 9-27-05 - Electricity ::

Progress:
The film is in a "final cut" stage...meaning we've given it all we can and are ready to lock it all down and ship it all out. This actually
happened a month or two ago and progress has not slowed one bit...We've hired the ears of young Christopher Gebert to complete
our audio post. Already he has visited the demolition derby championships in Long, Island, NY where he recorded 18 hours of engines,
crashes, cheers and explosions. While Chris was hard at work in Montauk, Jason, Megan and Todd attended the IFP Rough Cuts Lab
in New York City where they met some incredibly supportive and fascinating individuals...one of whom began to show early signs
of a nervous breakdown. Needless to say, much fun was had and great associations were made. We met some folks who sincerely
believe in the film. There are good people in the world...I can confirm this.

I wish I could tell you about all of the other great goings-on, but it would all end up jinxing this whole thing and make me look like a
fool. Those stories will have to wait...if things continue to move like they've been, the film will be finished by Christmas...


In The Meantime:
- More weddings were held...this time Craig Moorhead married the beautiful Kiyoung Nam this past weekend...both of whom were
a large part of the GH crew. Much handclapping took place.

- Brainbox Productions continues to create the show "Small Space, Big Style" each Tuesday night on HGTV

- Jason Orfanon bought a new hard drive.

- Marissa Ronca and Nick Panagopulos went to Mexico.

- Courtney Koestler moved to Madison, WI.

- Todd Rohal got a new radiator for his car.

- Richie Sherman doesn't respond in a timely manner to phone calls or emails.

This is what makes the post-production process so hard to keep you updated on...your nap times are much, much more interesting at
this point. As soon as we finish the optical effects, titles, dialogue editing, sound effects editing, background editing, foley editing, music
rights clearances, music editing, score composition, end credit creation, premix, mix, mastering, negative cutting, color timing, answer
printing, 2nd answer printing, 3rd answer printing, optical track creation, dolby licensing, synch checking and shipping we'll have some
real news to relay to you. Solid stories that will make you laugh and make your stomach gurgle in anticipation...

My Summer Vacation...The Forevertron of Baraboo, WI

 

Our T-shirt stock has currently dwindled to next to nothing. Thank you to all who have ordered and supported the film thus far.
Please email us with information about contributions to ensure we've got some product for you. More is on the way...eventually.

Also...our good friend Frank Bruchart is featured on the Vintage Vantage site sporting our T-shirts they created. Way to go, Pappy F!
It took about 40 minutes for that page to load on my computer, but it's worth a look.

Thank you all for the past year of work and support...free doughnuts in the kitchen.

Also, this.

:::::::::::::::
:: 7-25-05 - Hippie Sticks ::

Q: Why isn't this film in theaters yet?
A: So often the question...and one with an easy answer:
It's not finished yet.
Q: But some other films that shot last year are now finished...why can't this one be?
A: Because we're on a much lower budget, we all work day jobs, and our film is going to be better than the other ones.
Things that come out fast are always disappointments, aren't they? Burger King, Taco Bell and live news coverage is
never quality material. This movie will be like a $25 hamburger...a $16 taco....or 60 Minutes II. Flawless.

This past weekend we began the Foley sessions....meaning we went through the film again and again to re-record all of the small
sounds we couldn't get during production. Dog claws on pavement, bare feet on dirt, puke hitting the sidewalk...we made it all
happen in a soundproof booth measuring 9 feet by 4 feet...fueled by cookies, Twizzlers, Cheez Curls and Fritos.
Many thanks to Craig, Courtney, Jason, Amanda, Kiyoung and Cable (The Michael Winslow of the Mid-Atlantic) for lending
their feets and smarts to create a thoughtful sound design.
Also thanks to Brainbox for allowing us to destroy their sound facility.

As we finalize our soundtrack, you can get a sneak preview of some of the tunes we'll be including by visiting the websites of:
Vollmer
The Moldy Peaches
Kongar-ol Ondar
...and buying all of their CDs.

Much more on that soon enough....

If anyone knows how to get in touch with Michael McDonald, please let us know. We can't afford his music.

Lastly, we have officially SOLD OUT of our official Guatemalan Handshake T-shirts. Thank you a million times to all
who have supported this film with donations of money and labor for something you're all still in the dark about.
I hope you can someday sell those shirts on ebay and double your investments.

:::::::::::::::
:: 5-31-05 - On and on, upward and onward! ::

Editing continues. Nearing completion. So close. Trimming here and there. Snipping away at little bits so that you don't get uneasy
in your seats or complain of confusing parts. It's hard to update you at this point...the work is constant, but not as exciting as last
year's eventful days.

So, here are a few photos of how things look.

This is what I stare at daily:

And here is what the film looks like so far:

The timeline at the bottom is the entire film, mostly audio tracks scattered around everywhere...but that's it as it stands tonight.
So, take that to Chinatown and bootleg it.

For a story on how we almost took some dirty money, go HERE.

Thanks for your continued patience...more news very soon...maybe a newsletter as well.

:::::::::::::::
:: 12-06-04 - Forward ::

This past weekend was spent in New York with Superstar editor C. Alan Canant. I don't want to spoil anything, but there is plenty
to celebrate. Many of the crew gathered for a Thanksgiving weekend in the woods of West Virginia. Much merriment and dog
romancing ensued.

:::::::::::::::
:: 11-16-04 - Insight ::

:::::::::::::::
:: 10-25-04 - Humiliation Pt. 1 ::

Many of the crew and some of the cast of THE GUATEMALAN HANDSHAKE are graduates of the Ohio University School of Film,
School of Art and School of Education.
Check out the OHIO UNIVERSITY site for a brief video story on the film. If that link doesn't work try THIS ONE.

From Harrisburg/Points North:

* Get on 83 S towards York / Baltimore
* Take exit 32 for PA-382 / Newberrytown
* Turn RIGHT onto PA-382 N (1.4 miles)
* Turn LEFT onto York Road (1.3 miles)
* The Speedway will be on your LEFT.

:::::::::::::::
:: 06-29-04 - Shazaam!::

News:
After three years of writing and almost a year of preparing, we commence production on Friday, July 2nd and go non-stop until August 1st.
We've cast nearly 100 roles for the film and found dozens of locations...the fireworks, demolition derbies, floating cars, dogs, turtles and kids are all set to go.

For the latest information from the set, check in daily to the GUATEMALAN HANDSHAKE SET JOURNAL.
The journal will be updated by the cast and crew during production. With these new picture phones we'll be able to post photos from the set as the production happens.

Keep the hot side hot...and thank you for the continued support, prayers, candy and funds.

See you in August,

TR and all

:::::::::::::::
:: 06-21-04 - They Shoot Horses Don't They?::

News:
Time is moving like a rocket.
The updates are plentiful.
This site will soon become a bit stagnant while we shoot the film. Check back soon, or join our Mailing List to hear the lastest. You will be able to read the Guatemalan handshake web log which will be created by the cast and crew while this film is being shot. If there are no entries, you can rest assured that the crew is getting a hefty workout.

If you find yourself in Eastern PA this summer, be on the lookout for our filmmaking caravan...which will consist of a large box truck, an RV with a sweet brown and yellow stripe, and a short school bus filled with our cast and crew.

Many thanks to the Rogers family for donating their sweet-ass RV:

That's right...not only is this 1974 Travelcraft capable of hitting speeds of 35mph, but it boasts and
AM/FM and a couple of captains chairs. Consider this the GH Command Center. The future is made here.

This is Brody and Hannah's Dad. You'll meet both of them soon, as they are stars in the making.

Here's the C-Car arriving in Dillsburg for the first time. This was my dad's father's day present...an 8 hour trip.

And here is a portion of the motorway where we'll be shooting this film.
This track is run in a similar fashion to our shoot. I really like the folks here.
All of you will be invited out to join us for a shoot here in July. Stay Tuned.

:::::::::::::::
:: 06-06-04 - 1 Month 'Til Shootsville::

News:
We've reached the one month mark and will begin production on July 2nd in Dillsburg, PA.
Everything is moving according to plan, there is no reason to panic.
While in New York, under the cover of night, we shot the first scene of the film with little fanfare.
The scene featured the much liked-actor/director/singer/songwriter Cory McAbee (The American Astronaut/
The Billy Nayer Show) and he gave it his all. Join him this month on his tour of the west here.

Thanks is also due to the many bright, talented and humorous kids who came to our audition in Harrisburg last week.
The talent pool is deep in the state capital. We will be contacting everyone soon.

As we continue to prepare for the upcoming shoot, I'd like to share a few moments from the past week:

 

As always, please CONTRIBUTE to the production.
We need your help.

We're still looking for a few actors, locations and props. Email us if you have any of these, or a TRAINED WHITE DOG...a dog that is a little more controllable than this one:

If you have a companion that you'd like to see on the screen...contact us HERE.

:::::::::::::::
:: 06-02-04 - Turkeylegs - Where Art Thou?::

Turkeylegs Auditions Today in Harrisburg

TURKEYLEGS: 8-12 (Female); A hero in the making. Thin, tomboyish, constantly
dirty and still growing a full set of teeth, Turkeylegs is incredibly independent and loyal,
and her face beckons both pity and sympathy.
When Turkeylegs' best friend mysteriously disappears, she decides to deal with
the loss by joining, not fighting the world of adulthood.

Do you know a potential Turkeylegs? If she's in the Harrisburg area, we'd like
to meet her!

We're holding auditions today, Wednesday, June 2nd at the Gamut
Theater in downtown Harrisburg. Auditions are casual and fun. No need
to get nervous or dressed up, just bring your smarts.
Here's the Info:

When: Wednesday, June 2nd, 2004
Time: 4:00PM to 7:00PM
Where: The Gamut Theater, Strawberry Square, 3rd Floor (above the Food Court) Harrisburg, 17101
Who: Girls, ages 8 to 12
Questions? Call Marissa at (202) 841-0777

 

Other news:

We're still looking for a few actors, locations and props. If you have any of these, or a TRAINED WHITE DOG...click HERE.

:::::::::::::::
:: 05-19-04 - We've Only Just Begun::

Let's start off this week with some photos...

We're ready to roll. Ivan Dimitrov (right), and Daniel Stern make
the traditional "Fists of Celebration" in anticipation of production.

Awaiting it's moment in the spotlight, the future starring vehicle of
"The Guatemalan Handshake" currently awaits a facelift.

If you run into a fellow named Butchie while shopping for a
Mustang, know that you are in the presence of greatness.

Jim McNamee and Sage Rockermann will be designing the
sets and creating the proper atmosphere for this film. Trust them.

This past weekend we met a great number of great people in and around Harrisburg, PA. If anyone ever tells you that the world is a cruel
place, they're lying to you. Wonderful people exist, and we have met them.
Today I salute the heroes of the track, Jason, Dawn and Butchie.
Jason will be constructing our Demolition Derby car and cordinating the derby itself. Butchie is a man who can get anything at any time...
AND he owns a school bus. How cool is that?

If you're ready to pledge your support, DO IT. So far, not one injury or death has resulted from purchasing one of our fine T-shirts. Compliments abound...isn't it time you got yourself one of those? Do yourself a favor...support our film.
Click here to CONTRIBUTE to the film.

We're still looking for a few actors, locations and props. If you have any of these, or a TRAINED WHITE DOG...click HERE.

This week's star contributor - Ed Ash of San Diego, CA....the man who is down with Robots. Enjoy your new threads, Eds.

:: 04-10-04 - Artists Unite to Support the "Cause"::

We couldn't remained satisfied with just our designer T-shirts supporting our film. No.
From Baltimore Artiste Alex Roper, we are proud to unleash THE GUATEMALAN HANDSHAKE POSTER to the public at-large.

You're going to have to move quick on these, as a LIMITED RUN of only 100 posters were made.
Each poster was HAND-CRAFTED, meticulously silk-screened and cut to the custom size by Herr Roper himself.

When asked if he would make any more of these posters, Mr. Roper replied: "No. Never."
So get yours while you can...they will really blow you away and add a glorious orange glow to whichever room or rooms you decide to
hang them in.

Posters are available from this site on the CONTRIBUTE page.

DIRTY SHORTS NIGHT was quite a time. Thanks to all who attended and to the filmmakers who donated their films.
Monkey Vs. Robot director Nate Pommer was in attendance much to the thrill of many a female film-goer.

For those of you in WILMINGTON, NC -- We'll be taking Dirty Shorts Night on the road with us on May 1st.

Meet us at THE SOAPBOX LOUNGE for an evening of films and music by THE FURIES.
Things start at 8pm and admission is a cheap $5. How can you pass that up?

 

Join our MAILING LIST or CONTACT US with your thoughts/ideas/questions

:: 04-12-04 - Still Looking For You::

The GUATEMALAN HANDSHAKE is still looking to fill a few more roles in the films's production this summer.

We're looking for REAL PEOPLE to star in this feature length production. Each role is open to all ethnicities, and we are
seeking ambitious men, women, & children with a unique look. Previous acting experience not required!

We will be holding an open audition and an open crew call in Mechanicsburg, PA (outside of Harrisburg) and Washington, DC this weekend.

SATURDAY, APRIL 17th
MECHANICSBURG, PA:
The Little Theater of Mechanicsburg
915 York St.
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
9am-3pm - Cast
10am-2pm - Crew
Clich here for audition roles and times
Click here for crew positions and times

SUNDAY, APRIL 18th
WASHINGTON, DC:
Brainbox Productions
8113 Fenton St..
Silver Spring, MD 20910
10am - 3pm - Cast
Clich here for DC roles and times

For other questions and information CONTACT US and we'll send help

:: 03-24-04 - A Salute to Heroes::

Who is responsible for inspiring the creation of this film?
The list is a long one...too long to even consider typing right now.
For a sampling of some of the films that have always buttered my bread, please join us for a night
of short films that will please both young and old alike.

TUESDAY, APRIL 6th at 7:30pm
VISIONSDC Theater - 1927 Florida Ave.Washington, DC (Dupont Circle Metro)
Tickets - $10
An evening of Dirty Short Films
Visit the VISIONS WEBSITE for more information and directions.

Films screening will include:

HOLD ME WHILE I'M NAKED (1966) George Kuchar - (The first DC screening of this underground classic in years!)
MONKEY VS. ROBOT (1999) Nate Pommer - (Featuring James Kochalka Superstar)
KNUCKLEFACE JONES (1999) Todd Rohal - (Featuring Piper Perabo of Cheaper By the Dozen in her best performance of all time)
MOTHER & SON (1999) Matthew Silver - (Featuring Guatemalan Handshake actor Andy Nadler)
LITTLE RICHIE SCHREIBER (2000) Rich Schreiber
BILLY NAYER (1997) Cory McAbee - (Director and Star of The American Astronaut)
THE SWINGER (Unknown) Jason Affolder
More TBA soon...

The screening will also include a TRAILER for The Guatemalan Handshake, Prizes, Live Performances, drinks, artwork and more.

All films being screened are being donated on behalf of the filmmakers in support of The Guatemalan Handshake.
Some films may be dirtier than others, some not so dirty at all.

:: 02-23-04 - Why Can't You Just Have A Party? ::

So we shall.

What:                Fundraising party for The Guatemalan Handshake
When:               Tuesday, Feb. 24, 7:00 PM until midnight...
Where:              The Blue Room, 2321 18th Street NW in Adams Morgan
Why:                 Do you really need an excuse to go out on Mardi Gras Day?     
No, Seriously:   To support the production of an independent feature film by people you know
Why else:          Drink specials, films, free snacks, great music, and INCREDIBLE giveaways
Getting There:   Taking public transportation or parking in a pay lot is strongly recommended
A $10 donation supports the film and makes you happy.

Directions are available at http://www.blueroomdc.com.

:: 02-12-04 - Wear It To Church! ::

The official Guatemalan Handshake T-shirts are in!
You'll never want to wear anything else after you slip one of these puppies on.

*For cool kids only.

Exclusively designed by California's VINTAGE VANTAGE , these shirts are the softest, finest fitting, and best looking way to support an independent film since John Cassavettes passed away.

Visit the CONTRIBUTIONS page to make a donation and have your limited edition shirt shipped to your home or business. There's probably a way you can write this off on your taxes! Buy five! More photos here.

:: 02-02-04 - If you donˆt look like Ashton Kutcher -- We Want You ::

The first GUATEMALAN HANDSHAKE audition will take place in Mechanicsburg, PA...right in the heartland of where we'll be shooting.

We're looking for REAL PEOPLE to star in this feature length production. We will consider all ethnicities for the parts, and are seeking ambitious men, women, & children with a unique look. Previous acting experience is not required.

Currently we DO NOT have any roles for white males (18-30) but don't despair guys -- stay tuned for future casting calls!

The process of making the film will allow the actors (both professional and non-professional) to bring their own lives and ideas to the set.
Through a series of planned discussions and workshop sessions, the film will be fine-tuned to fit each of the actors and their surroundings, and will create a film that sets itself apart from most other traditional narratives.

*Please be prepared to spend up to an hour of your day with us depending on the turnout. We're beginning the audition process in the upcoming weeks and will be looking for fresh, original faces to include in the film.
People of all ages and nationalities are encouraged to stop in and show us what you've got to offer.

Click HERE for character descriptions and further information.

Other auditions will soon be scheduled for Washington, DC; Baltimore, MD; Philadelphia, PA; and New York, NY.

Please drop an email to casting@guatemalanhandshake.com with any questions. The specific dates and times will be posted here shortly.

:::::::::::::::
01-21-04 - Success!
............................................................................................................................................................................................................................

The Guatemalan Handshake held a fundraiser in Washington DC this past week and successfully raised $1000.
Thanks to all who came out despite the sleet and freezing rain. All of the money raised at these events goes directly to
the film's production budget. More fundraisers are in the works for Washington, DC; Baltimore, MD; Wilmington, NC; and
Chicago, IL.
Thanks again to all who attended. One lucky attendee went home with a gelatin arm molded after FX-man Cable Hardin's
lovely bride, Suzanna. Look for it soon on ebay.

:::::::::::::::
01-06-04 - We Begin
............................................................................................................................................................................................................................

You've somehow stumbled across the offical website for THE GUATEMALAN HANDSHAKE. Thank you.
As we begin production of this film, there are a number of issues we need to address. Please check back frequently for
further information.
It'll pay off in the end, I promise.
............................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Item #1 - CONTRIBUTE!
You can see a link above labeled "Contribute". We need your help to make this film happen.
Through this site you'll be able to buy T-shirts (incredibly cool T-shirts no less), hand-made posters,
props from the film, roles in the film...you name it, you can buy it to help us out.
Right now we're only set up for donations, but soon you'll be able to fill your home and/or apartment
with even more clutter. Join our MAILING LIST and keep in touch.
............................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Item #2 - THE TRAILER!
That's right. Not a frame of film has been shot, but you can already watch a preview of the film by clicking HERE!!
Sit back, put your feet up and squint at your monitor to get a visual idea of what 5% of this film might become.
............................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Item #3 - FUND RAISERS?
We'll be holding fundraisers up until the day we begin shooting. It's really that important to us that we get your money.
We don't have a trust fund, just a lot of ideas and ambition. So, join us in Washington, D.C., at The Big Hunt on Saturday,
January 17th from 8:00pm until midnight. $10 gets you happy hour drink prices all night and gives us a hearty contribution.
If we raise more than $20, our Editor Craig Moorhead will eat a pound of creamed corn at midnight. Don't miss it.
Click HERE for a mini-poster you can email to your friends!
See you there!
............................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Item #4 - HOW DO I GET INVOLVED?
We are currently looking for crew members to join on for the long journey ahead.
If spending your summer in rural Pennslyvania working on a film that involves old men, children, demolition derbies,
and amusement parks sounds like a fun and rewarding idea to you, then by all means, CONTACT US NOW!
Now is the time.
............................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Item#5 - INFORMATION
News develops each day, stay informed. Join the Guatemalan Handshake MAILING LIST.
............................................................................................................................................................................................................................

More information is on its way. This is just the tip of the cherry tree.
See you soon,
TR