#MegaBalls
#Oroloro
Copyright ® Oroloro Ent
We attended Sundance along with our lawyer to officially launch our film. Armed with business cards and one-sheets, we attended panel discussions and industry gatherings - AND - participated in a pitch contest held by Film Utah.
We shared a condo with a married filmmaking couple and Ben Kingsley's wife, Danielle. We five packed into Danielle's car and headed off to events at the Park City Film Studios, and to gatherings in homes, condos and on Main Street.
We attended panel events, many hosted by our lawyer, where we not only discussed issues regarding independent film, but networked and chatted with other filmmakers.
#MegaBalls
#Oroloro
Copyright ® Oroloro Ent
It never stopped snowing during our 5-day stay, including the night we slid our way up/down the mountain road for a party held by a distribution company. It was there where we encouraged to raise out budget to the current level .
The big event, one we prepared for many times in front a group of friends, was a pitch contest. The first round was to be 3-5 minutes, followed by a longer second round. We had our props - real lottery tickets - and we were ready. We entered and handed out the tickets. That certainly got their attention.
We were well into our three minutes, when questions sprung from the panel. And suddenly, time's up! The clock chimed before we could explain the ending of the film. Along with others who had pitched, we waited in the lobby for the first-round cut. Only five would make it to that cherished second round.
#MegaBalls
#Oroloro
Copyright ® Oroloro Ent
After about 30-minutes the decision was announced. The judges stated they did not need a second round and had selected the First Prize ($1,000 + production assistance), Second Prize ($500), and Third Prize ($200) winners.
We were brought back into the pitching room and were told we made a close Second Place. Later, at the after party down on Main Street, we were told we tied for first place, but since had not revealed the ending in the first round, we were awarded second. A great result nevertheless.
We left Sundance satisfied. We placed among three great projects, got our recognition, and discussed our next step on the plane ride home.
