By: Rachel Nelson
For Edge Monthly
For Edge Monthly
David Marvin describes himself as a simple man with big dreams. For 30 years, he has worked patiently toward starting an independent film production company.
"This will pay for my other plans which include building a complete motion picture and television production studio, a recording studio and music manufacturing facility, and building a family entertainment park," Marvin said.
The park would provide local area citizens the opportunity to participate in the operation of the park, providing employment as well as business and career opportunities.
"Marvin Entertainment (TM) will focus on hiring those in the selected community currently living below the poverty level, providing a living wage and benefits that will allow them the opportunity to make a better life for themselves," Marvin said.
There is one major obstacle standing between Marvin and his long-time goal: Money.
"Motion picture production is not cheap, even when working on what is considered a low-budget film."
It was in 1975 that, Marvin made the decision to pursue a career in writing and producing his own motion pictures.
"It didn't take me long to realize that Hollywood was not the place for me," he said.
"Not because I think I am better than the established method of motion picture production, but because the purpose of any business is to make a profit and a new-comer to Hollywood never makes money."
In attempting to bypass Hollywood, Marvin is forced to raise funds through investors or product placement and promotional opportunities. Though this has proved itself to be a difficult task, Marvin said he is closer now than he has ever been before.
"I currently have an investor who is raising the production funds, and will receive 50 per cent of the gross profit derived from the film. This is only right," Marvin said.
The first film Marvin plans to release will most likely be made in Amarillo.
"It's Only Make Believe!©" takes place in a fairytale village hidden deep in a federally protected forest far away from civilization.
In the story, the village is populated by characters from fairytale books who live simply and peacefully until they are interrupted by outsiders trying to get in. Finally, the outsiders hire a lawyer to represent them and present their grievances to the villages.
The attorney negotiates an agreement and the villagers agree to allow the outsiders in on a trial basis.
Together, they elect a town council to make decisions for the village and begin to pass new laws. As a result of their newfound civilization, they hire policemen, judges and officials to enforce the laws and handle the business of the village. They enact taxes to pay for their new costs, but few can afford them, and before long resentment and rebellion begin.
Like all of Marvin's scripts, this story ends with a moral and a lesson.
"This motion picture will not contain sexual material, objectionable language or gratuitous violence and will be suited for family viewing," Marvin said.
Marvin Entertainment (TM) will film its movies using local area, non-union talent and crews. This means that average people with special talents from the local area will have a chance to make their dreams come true as well as earn some extra cash.
Although a date is not set in stone, Marvin hopes to release the film by July of 2006.
Marvin is in need of actors, actresses, set and costume designers and anyone else interested in helping on the project. For a cast list or more information on how you can participate, contact Marvin via e-mail at marvinentertainment@yahoo.com.
"It is my sincere goal to help others to realize their dreams, and Lord willing, this is what I will do."
For this local dreamer, simplicity is bliss.
