Two Steps Forward, One Step...

When in London, I must confess I attempted to teach a few people the Texas two-step... in particular at the HAM Summer Ball.  For the unfamiliar, it is a 4/4 shuffle, a modified waltz, two small steps forward to the left and right (the one to the right is more of a small bump), one larger step left, then larger right.  Well, forward as per the man's perspective.  Really quite simple.  But dancer beware, there is a West Texas version, a South Texas version, and versions done outside the Lone Star State such as the Cajun version, a California version, and I was told a French version, but don't you believe it.

I bring this up because I'm being asked a lot these days, "David, how are things going with the film?  Have you found your financing?"  And the thought of 'two steps forward and one back" comes to mind.  The pattern for that may at first sound like progress.  Right?  At least the net effect is one step forward.  But the problem is that it all depends on the size of those steps.  Soon you find yourself perhaps moving in some semblance of 'forward' but have so careened around the dance floor that it is a blunderous mess, with lots of sour feelings and sore feet.

Well, if you are not sure what I am talking about...I won't go into more detail other than to say I understand the general difficulties of independent film finance.  We have a couple of well-connected individuals which have assured me they can assuage my concerns on the matter...but, well-meaning they are, there is nothing assured about raising funds.  For now I continue to hold my breath for that next major backer who will boost us to the next phase.  (And for that boost, said booster will have great advantages as this film moves forward.)

A few other things:  We have made a sponsorship pitch to a major polo vendor.  Hopefully there will be good news in the offing there.  And we have several polo magazines and newsletters wanting to do stories on the film.  Speaking of that, if any of my new UK friends has seen the piece on us on Sky Sports, please let me know!

Finally, here's a generous review that though I am not sure the work deserves, I will graciously accept nonetheless:

"I am impressed with the finer details of your writing, describing plays & strategy...spot-on, succinct work on what could otherwise lose an audience.  The element of concentric love stories adds wonderfully subtle and complex undertones to the polo storyline.  And I appreciate the immensity of your undertaking, the amount of research and number of reliable sources required to present a cohesive and believable representation of polo and its accompanying lifestyle. The sport has evaded many previous attempts to capture its essence in live and recorded broadcasting. Happily, you possess all the creative and industry tools necessary to create a product reflecting the depth of the characters and their issues, supported by the undercurrent of the grit, guts, and glamour of polo.   Ultimately, your work represents the lifeblood of all of us dedicated to polo.  I look forward to the continuing development and ultimate success of your hard work!"  -- TW

Ride on.  Ride on.  Ride back.  Ride on again.