BASS REEVES A HIT
by Craig Rainey

Bass Reeves is making a huge buzz in the south central Texas film community. Within 2 months of completion of principle filming it was selected as official selection in four film festivals and it was bought by a high profile distributor for North American distribution.

The movie is about Bass Reeves, the first African American deputy marshal in the 1800's. He is considered to be one of the bravest and most successful Federal Marshal of all times. Bass is played by North Carolina actor James A. House. Film maker Brett Mauser and his Ponderous Productions shot the film in less than a month. The details of the distribution deal have not been disclosed but prospects for the film's success look good.

Also starring as Bob Dozier, the main villain in the film, is Craig Rainey (that would be me). Santiago Villalobos plays Bass' trusted posseman Martinez. The film was shot on an almost nonexistent budget and I was shocked at the quality of the film.

Only two screenings pre-distribution were allowed. The first at the Alamo Drafthouse, Westlakes in San Antonio sold out 3 auditoriums in the first 2 days tickets were available. The second at Overtime Theatre in San Antonio is filling fast as of this writing. We all must wait until the official release some time this Summer to get another look at the film. The distributor asked Brett to make some editing changes and to shorten the original film by some 26 minutes.

I have seen the shortened version and am delighted at the improved tempo and pace of the film.

 

Craig Rainey has acted in more than 38 films, Commercials and Industrials. His acheivements include nomination for "Best Male Lead Actor in a Feature Film in the International Filmmakers Festival in Kent England. His films have won awards in numerous categories. He is considered oe of the top indie film actors in the Austin area. His popularity with filmmakers and fellow actors alike is due in large part to his

professionality and work ethic. His commitment to continuing education and self improvement are apparent in his film work. His mentor, John Lansch, is a fellow contributor to this site.Contact him at: craigrainey@craigrainey.com.

Brett William Mauser has become reknowned
for his action films and his
ability to make them on
virtually no budget. Brett is a
graduate of San Antonio
College with an Associate’s
Degree in Radio Television and
Film. He founded Ponderous Productions in the early 90's. He recently finished the 10
feature series "Innocence Saga"
in just 12 months for principle
filming. His latest film, "Bass
Reeves" is currently in post production due in theaters in February 2010Contact Brett at brett@craigrainey.com
The
Contributing
Authors
John Lansch is the founder of Actors Post Guru which exemplifies acting for camera. He trains actors to successfully act in film whether in Hollywood or Austin, Texas or his home town of Houston, Texas. His work has appeared on many networks including NBC, CBS, ABC,
FOX, and the Animal Planet. While in Los Angeles, he co-founded the cutting edge actor’s workshop, Actors – Post Guru, focusing on the auditioning process.  He has continued his teachings at the University of Texas, Austin Musical Theatre, and independently throughout the state. He is currently the director for the comedy improv troupe Laughing Out Loud productions that is partnered with Dave & Busters across America. Contact John at johnlansch@craigrainey.com.

BASS REEVES: AN INTERVIEW WITH THE DIRECTOR