Boys of Summer Book - Entry #152

You can see the complete film "Boys of Summer" for free by clicking here. 

100% proceeds go to the Michael J Fox Foundation. 

Below are a few of the reviews from the film festival by viewers. There are many more posted at: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0770724/reviews.

April 3, 2006

Robert, 

I saw your documentary in Phoenix and it blew me away. Like you, my best connection with my Father (and Brother) came through baseball. My Dad started playing catch with me and taking me to baseball games when I was 8 yrs. old. And, he died when I was 11 and my brother was 5. I passed along a love of baseball to my brother which we share to this day. I'm 56 and my little brother is 50. Thank you for another thing baseball we can share! 

Best Wishes, 

Hank

Reviews from imdb.com:

A Father and Son Odyssey to Baseball Parks, raising awareness of Parkinson Disease. 

March 31, 2006

Author: boyerpk from Phoenix, AZ 

This film touched my heart and brought back memories of sharing good times with my parents. As a film patron, I look forward to the general release of this film, as the story is entertaining as well as educational. The wide release would not only raise knowledge about Parkinson Disease but would raise funds for Parkinson research. The every day trials were fun to watch, the sense of humor of both men was priceless. There is much to be learned from these fellows and the way they handled disappointment and triumphs. The public embraced them and that was heartwarming. It is America at its finest -baseball- as our national pastime. And being able to share it with someone you love is priceless. My wish for all would be for everyone to experience one day with a parent and enjoy the day. This film celebrates the America in all of us.

*********

Baseball, Apple Pie, Fathers & Sons 

April 1, 2006

Author: jzatarski from Phoenix, Arizona 

Boys of Summer, a Father & his Son - Who wouldn't want the opportunity to tour all of the Major League baseball parks? Yes, as baseball fans it sounds like the ultimate road trip. But what if the reason for going is not the reason you expect.

Some of us have been to many of the big league stadiums. We may have gone to our favorite park as youngsters with our Dads, we may have gone to the ball game while on an out-of-town business trip - or better yet on vacation.

Yet the road trip this son and his father took was unique. Unique in the way they met the challenge of the father's medical condition and the son's quest to make the trip financially feasible. The cause they were on as they skipped across the USA and into Canada one ideal summer.

While watching the Boys of Summer, I thought back to the time my father was alive and wish that something like this would have been possible for us to do. But like the song, the time is never there when you need it so that the commitment that was made was an impossible dream.

You will really find yourself involved in this journey of a son and his father. Even my non-sports wife found the opportunity to share their adventure - a dream in the making. You wondered if they would ever be able to make all the professional ball parks and not run out of money.

But those key observations made along the way - the interviews with the fans and the new friends made along the way - will make seeing this movie a perfect opportunity for all of us to share in the wonderful game, the families that enjoy it, and a father & son who know that the road traveled together is the best world to be in.

Boys of Summer Book - Entry #148

You can see the complete film "Boys of Summer" for free by clicking here. 

100% proceeds go to the Michael J Fox Foundation. 

Mar. 29, 2006 - BOB

Scottsdale, AZ

T-Minus 27 hours...and counting. I'm seeing that theater in my dreams. It's a huge space. I have huge hopes and huge fears.

We had a great interview on local Ch. 3 this afternoon. It'll run tonight at 8:00 PM. We also have an interview tomorrow morning at 6:30 (cock-a-doodle-whoooooooooo that's early). 

We also had a great time at Arizona State University with Mike O'Leary and his girlfriend, Linda (both Parkinsonians). We spoke to a group of students studying to be physical therapists. Dad and I got to share our story along with Linda and Mike. They asked a lot of great questions and showed a lot of interest in coming to the screening tomorrow -- we'll see...

Had an awesome lunch today, too, at the Streets of New York Brewery. Annamaria's good friend, Kristy is the GM there and it was great to see her. 

We actually have a little downtime right now and we're laying low before taking in a movie at 7:00. Ahhhhh, downtime...:)

Mar. 30, 2006 -- screening day

We get up at 5 AM and I didn't sleep well -- too much on the head. Among other things, I had misplaced a $100 battery for my video camera -- maybe at ASU yesterday? -- and I was just feeling a kind of buzzing irritation. 

Why 5 AM? We have a live TV spot in downtown Phoenix to plug the screening. That's cool. We drive down there and just as we're a block a way, Erica (our AWESOME PR Rep) calls and says there's been breaking news and we're being bumped back an hour. 

Oh...

So we find a parking lot, grab some pillows and a blanket, recline the seats and catch a few minutes of shuteye...or at least relaxation. Erica finds us and we go hang out at a McDonalds 'til the shoot. As one who is not "lovin' it" I didn't eat anything, but enjoyed using the bathroom in between a couple of homeless men -- bless their hearts. 

The interview went very well. Live interviews are a bit more pressure-packed than the taped deals as the interviewer encourages you to be brief and actually make sense. Thankfully we know the subject matter well. 

We go back to the hotel and get back into bed. Ahhhh...

Erica calls at about 9:00 and asks if we would mind doing another interview at noon. Would we mind? Are you kidding me? This is the stuff we dream of! We beg for coverage. Noon in our hotel lobby we're at it again. This time it's to be an edited piece so it's all gravy. 

I hope we can get copies of these pieces. 

We take a walk to get lunch in old town Scottsdale -- quite a charming place. It's nice to walk, too, as we've been driving a bit. We eat on the patio at the Salty Senorita -- delicious -- then have the famous (well-earned notoriety, too) "Pizzookie" at Oregano's next door. 

Boys of Summer Book - Entry #144

You can see the complete film "Boys of Summer" for free by clicking here. 

100% proceeds go to the Michael J Fox Foundation. 

March 10, 2006 - Bob

More acceptance!

Congratulations! On behalf of the Palm Beach International Film Festival I am pleased to notify you that your film has been selected for our 11th annual fest April 20-28, 2006. 

Please update us of your films premiere status and screening format (35 mm, Beta, Beta Sp, or Mini DV) by Friday March 9.

We request your print to be sent directly to the festival office by April 17th.

Palm Beach International Film Festival

289 Via Naranjas, Suite 48

Boca Raton, FL 33432

561-362-0003

In the coming weeks we will forward to you your screening schedule. Since Palm Beach County is so large, we would like to screen your film at least 2 times to give moviegoers around the county the opportunity to see your work of art.

If you are planning on coming to Palm Beach, please check out our web site at pbifilmfest.org and click on travel and accommodations. Our festival hub is at the Delray Beach Marriott located on the beautiful Atlantic Ocean. The hotel has special rates available for filmmakers, rooms are limited, therefore we encourage you to make your reservations soon!

Thank you for interest in the Palm Beach International Film Festival and we look forward to meeting you soon.

Best regards,

Randi Emerman

Executive Director

More good news from the Phoenix Film Festival:

We've been selected to play on Mar. 30th at 7 PM -- all by our lonesomes on Closing Night! This means we'll have one clear shot at getting everybody riled up and out to see our film and we won't be competing with any other films at the fest for audience attention. We'll also be featured on the inside of the front cover of the program -- very nice! We've never played in a venue this large (the Cine Capri is the largest screen in Arizona and seats over 500). This should be fun.

Many thanks to Festival Director, Chris Lamont and the Phoenix Film Fest!

Boys of Summer Book - Entry #137

You can see the complete film "Boys of Summer" for free by clicking here. 

100% proceeds go to the Michael J Fox Foundation. 

Three more reviews:

Friday Dec 9th, 2005 

From www.athleticsnation.com:

Written by skigurl

Just wanted to give a huge thanks to Robert for giving a few of us the chance to see his very personal film about his baseball trip with his dad last summer. He graciously hosted a great party where we also got to meet his dad, the "star" of the movie, who has Parkinson's disease. 

The film was really three stories: A baseball trip, a father/son relationship, and a chance to see what Parkinson's is about and how it affects those who have it and their families. He's got lots of talent as a filmmaker but, more importantly, he has a wonderful family and was very open about sharing them with us.

It's rare for people to be as open about who they are in front of a camera, and I think it's a great story that will hopefully get wider distribution.

Friday Dec 09, 2005

From www.atheleticsnation.com

Written by Alameda Greg

Me too

I also went with my wife last night (nice to meet you skigurl) and this movie is touching and funny. 

Robert, two things:

I forgot to ask in the Q/A last night what the deal was with those kids with the mansion in Houston? Your dad's line about their parents was the funniest of the night, that and that Cincy kid mispronouncing Miguel Tejada.

I also didn't realize until I got home last night that you are also the person who went to the Raiders game and had such a bad experience. I happened to run across that post last night. Dang, I wish I would have known so we could have talked about it.

Keep in Touch

**********************************************

LETTER FROM THE BOSTON RED SOX

December 14, 2005

Dear Robert,

I would like to thank you for sending me a copy of Boys of Summer. I watched the film, in the company of others in my office, and we all commented on how well the documentary was made. Following you and your father, Dan, as you made your trip across the country, through various cities and Major League ballparks, was a truly touching depiction of the bond between a father and a son.

We were very pleased, as well, to see that the game of baseball could play a small part in the trips you took, and the stories you were able to bring to the film. We particularly enjoyed the fact that you were able to make a stop here, at our beloved Fenway Park.

For those of us who know or love someone with Parkinson’s disease, your film touches upon many of the feelings we go through every day. And for someone who is unfamiliar with the disease, your film does a wonderful job of expressing how such a disease effects not only the person with the disease, but also all of those who care for them and the disease secondhand.

I would like to wish you all the best in this endeavor and all that may follow. Your work on behalf of all of those inflicted with Parkinson’s disease is inspirational, and heartfelt. Thank you again for sharing it with us. 

Sincerely,

Dr. Carles A. Steinberg 

Executive Vice President/Public Affairs

Boys of Summer Book - Entry #129

You can see the complete film "Boys of Summer" for free by clicking here. 

100% proceeds go to the Michael J Fox Foundation. 

April 20, 2005 - Bob

Los Angeles, CA

Rejection from the Seattle Int’l Film Fest. Sigh. I know the movie wasn’t ready. I was really hoping they’d see through it’s holes (which, as I mentioned, were numerous) to the greater good and possibilities. I’m hoping someone else sees the plus side of this for themselves. The idea I’m pitching is that a festival gets to look great by promoting a film that’s fun, has mass appeal and serves a great cause. 

I’m confident that person will come about. I also know the movie is improving day by day with each cut. With the more competent/complete cut, there shouldn’t be as long of a bridge of understanding/acceptance for a programmer to have to cross to say yes.

June 1, 2005 - Bob

Los Angeles, CA

(E-mail invite):

SUBJECT: Ygnacio Valley High School Screening of , “Boys of Summer”

WHEN: Saturday, June 11th at 7 PM (location TBA, but it will be in Concord, CA area -- EAST SF BAY AREA). 

I am SO pumped. I'm still working on the movie and will be until “they” pry it from me. It's, of course, rather personal. It's also a living, breathing piece of art and will have a life beyond me that others (that’s you!) breathe into it. I just want to make sure (like any good parent) that I give it all it needs to be received to it's highest good. 

I’m hopeful this screening will give me the feedback I need to be sure it is as ready for prime time. 

I look forward to seeing you there.

June 11, 2005 - Bob

Concord, CA

It’s odd screening at my old high school. It took jumping through a bunch of hoops with the district who seemed...confused as to what, exactly, I was trying to accomplish. Ultimately, they said okay so that’s good. 

I picked up a bunch of snacks and had them ready in sort of snack-shack fashion in the back of the room. I figured I’d charge old-school prices, too (.50 ice cream, .25 red ropes, cracker jacks, Otter Pops, etc.). 

My ability to enjoy the good crowd that started filing in wasn’t aided by the difficult setup. I have a bad habit of doing all the A.V. myself so as to avoid having to pay someone. It’s that double-edged sword: I know what I’m doing and yet, by doing it, I can’t be present as completely as I’d like to be because I’m worried about the tech elements (for those who don’t know, tech never really runs smoothly. Something always needs to be adjusted...or kicked). 

I’m lucky enough to have an awesome friend/former boss in Brian Doyle. He owns the DJ company I’ve worked at (on/off/on/off/on/off...) for years. He lets me borrow whatever equipment I need pretty much whenever I need it gratis. If only he could throw in some slave labor (kidding! I’d pay him for the slave labor, of course). 

As this is the first public screening of what I’d consider a watchable version of the film -- I haven’t even let Annamaria see this version yet -- I’m nervous. I know it’s not “done”, but I also know I’ve done enough for it to be seen. The question comes down to, “does it ‘work’?” In other words, will the audience enjoy it/get it and want to talk to their friends about it. Will it resonate? 

I’ve done enough screenings of my other films to know not to worry too much about whether or not they’ll like the things I like or get every beat/moment I want them to get. It’s the overall I’m after. A film is much more of a two-way experience than most people realize. What each member of the audience brings to the screening is themselves -- everything that makes them who they are and even what they’re going through that day will determine a lot about how they feel about the film. That’s why screenings are such a valuable learning tool for filmmakers who are willing to listen. 

This also brings up another difficult balance with the nature of artwork: the artist can always do more; the art is a living thing; it will never be “done” until the artist lets it go. Even then it grows and becomes whatever the audience, media and others make of it. All of which means at some point artists have to relinquish control (everyone screams!).

So the crowd of around 100 or so settles in and I’m in the back of the room -- my favorite hang during my screenings as I like to see how/if the audience interacts. Usually no interaction is a good sign -- they’re all too enraptured in the experience to bother talking to the person next to them. 

There’s some crosstalk here, but nothing to get in a twist over. The good thing, too, is I don’t know everyone in this crowd. That means some people without ties to me responded to my web-beggings and will probably feel no shame in tearing me a new one if the film sucks. I particularly hit up my fellow A’s fan brethren at www.athleticsnation.com, whom I know only by screen names like “Dev”, “monkeyball” and “baseballgirl” among others. 

The image of the film on the screen was not as good as I would have liked as I couldn’t get the room completely dark. The sound was a bit echo-ish, too (it was a cafeteria we were in, after all). All in all, however, it went well. There was a nice round of applause at the end and going up to the front to take questions, I caught my mom’s expression. She was holding her breast bone and smiling. I’m pretty sure there were tears, too. I was nervous about her reaction because she’s sensitive about her health being discussed sometimes as it is in the film. 

I was ready for questions about my use of a particular scene that shows my mom going from laughter to tears when we came home from Anaheim. The camera holds on her and dad’s embrace for a solid 20 seconds with nothing else but Emma’s panting as she vies for attention. It was an important moment to show because it really showed the depth of the pain and fear mom felt not having dad around for the previous five weeks. It is honest. The question in my mind comes: did I feel I exploited her situation? No. It was simply honest. At the same time, I didn’t back away from it as it was a major concern for both Dad and I while on the road -- to the degree where we considered cutting short the trip. 

The crowd asked good questions (not that question as it turned out). I did get to do something I had envisioned in my mind, calling up my dad and introducing him as the star of the show (which he is). I know it’s not his favorite thing to be in the limelight, but at the same time I’ve seen him open up to a side of himself that is very engaging with people asking him questions (sometimes personal ones).

Boys of Summer Book - Entry #111

You can see the complete film "Boys of Summer" for free by clicking here. 

100% proceeds go to the Michael J Fox Foundation. 

September 17, 2004 - Bob
Las Vegas, NV

Whew...

And with a day and a clear mind, what a difference. I'm actually hopeful that I'll make this crazy deadline yet. I've been slamming together tape as fast as I can. I'm going to make the halfway point tonight, then we’ll fly up to the Bay Area for Poppa's 90th birthday party. Part of me says it's crazy to be going (as I have SOOOOO much to do), but at the same time, it will allow me some sanity downtime -- always a good thing.

I have an interview with Howard Frank Mosher (author of “Waiting for Teddy Williams”, among other novels) set up for when we go to the Northeast next week along with Debi Brooks, CEO of the Michael J Fox foundation -- excellent stuff. I'm still hoping to get a couple minutes of Stephen King's time, should he make his way over to the festival. Fingers are crossed -- along with my eyes from staring at the screen too long. 

Seattle 6, Oakland 3
 WP: R. Villone (6-5)   LP: C. Bradford (5-6)

September 20, 2004 - Bob
Las Vegas, NV

Editing, editing...

I'm past the half-way point and currently consolidating files (giving me a moment to say hello to all of you -- "hello!"). I am nervous about the amount of work in front of me -- it's still a lot and sleep just may not be much in the cards for the next couple of days since a cut of some variety is due on Friday and I'm leaving for NY on Thursday. But...that is what it is. I want this shot and I feel it's important for the film to give it this shot, so I'm putting it out there.

I love watching this story unfold. I love the time I got to spend with my dad. I feel so honored and blessed. I love the reaction I get from people when I tell them about the journey -- I know we did something very special and I look forward to sharing it.

No game for Oakland today.

 

Boys of Summer Book - Entry #110

You can see the complete film "Boys of Summer" for free by clicking here. 

100% proceeds go to the Michael J Fox Foundation. 

September 16, 2004 - Bob
Las Vegas, NV

Near disaster. Panic. Overwhelmed. I’m not sure if what I’m doing makes sense anymore. I’m going to make a call tomorrow and find out.

Basically, I’m pushing myself like a madman to get this documentary ready for the Sundance deadline (next Thursday, due next Friday). In the interim, I’m going to be back up in the Bay Area Friday through Sunday for my grandfather’s birthday. That leaves me five days to cut the rest of this thing. I must be insane. I...I just really want this film to debut at Sundance this January. What happens if I don’t make the deadline? Is the film hurt? No. Could I hurt myself by trying to edit this way? Yes. I already have in many ways. So why do this? Because it’s what I sometimes do  when I get in too deep.

Tonight, as I was clearing storage space on the external hard drive, the folder with my project files disappeared -- a solid 24 hours of work with no time to make it up. I about cried. I just had a breakthrough today where I finally felt like I began to edit the project with a bit of rhythm.

Then I get a call (it’s 12:30 p.m. and nobody calls with good news at 12:30 p.m., right?). On top of that, I’m worried because Annamaria’s Grandma is in the hospital after major surgery today...

Turns out to be someone just interested in Las Vegas Link, our casting breakdown service. Whew...and kind of weird. She said she thought she’d just get a recording. I wish I would have let the call go through so she would have.

At any rate, my heart’s a bit calmer now as I found that folder and all my files. I’m not going to edit anymore tonight -- just log in some more footage then go to bed.

I need a deep breath and a reevaluation of what I’m doing here...

Oakland 5, Texas 4 (salvaging a split of their 4-game series)
WP: R. Harden (10-6)   LP: K. Rogers (16-8)

I take a breath and remind myself: this too shall pass...