The Shaggy Dog Project is sponsored by DIVA (Downtown Initiative for the Visual Arts), Eugene’s premier not-for-profit art center. The Project is designed to guide aspiring local filmmakers through the process of writing and producing a series of short, dramatic films using professional filmmaking techniques. Emphasis is on humorous stories with surprise or twist endings.
Stories are selected from ideas submitted by the students; the ideas are then developed into short screenplays. From those screenplays that qualify, short (5 to 10 minute) films are produced, and the students become the production crew. The goal is to provide the total filmmaking experience, from basic-idea-to-finished-film.
Led by professional filmmakers Neal Miller and Tom Blank, Shaggy Dog productions are comparable to the highest international quality level. Neal and Tom donate their time, passion, and expertise in pursuit of that goal. The production crew and local professional actors contribute their time and talent, and local businesses and individuals contribute facilities and other in-kind services. The attached letter from Mayor Kitty Piercy expresses the city’s support for the Shaggy Dog Project and the professionals leading it.
Classes meet Saturdays 9:00am to Noon. Students are required to sign up for a minimum of 4 sessions. The fee is $40 per month. Financial assistance is available on a limited basis and made possible by special arrangement with Neal Miller and Rubicon Films.
Shaggy Dog’s Professional Leadership
Thomas Blank enjoys retirement in Eugene after 33 years in Hollywood’s film and television industry. As a Director and Assistant Director, he worked on a multitude of productions, including Ironside, Bionic Woman, Airwolf, Murder She Wrote and, in more recent years, Resurrection Blvd, The Pretender, and Charmed.
Neal Miller has been writing, producing and directing films since 1979. His filmography may be viewed at www.rubicon-films.com.
For more information contact Neal at 541-686-1238.
