Where did the idea for the storyline come from?

After starting with two others and eventually scrapping them, Joel said that they settled on a simple concept – an escape and pursuit theme. They built the story around the Old Testament Cities of Refuge that were a foreshadowing of what was to come with Christ.

How did you acquire the skills to produce the film?

When I asked this question, Joel interjected with a slight rewording, “You mean, ‘How are we acquiring the skills…?’” Their family saw this project very much as a learning experience, often stopping filming along the way to learn new skills that were needed in order to continue. What one might realistically expect to accomplish in six months took them two years because of this approach.

Amelia told how one of the drawbacks of the long time frame was that by the end of the filming they had almost outgrown their costumes! The kids took it all in stride, though, and obviously enjoyed the process very much. And in spite of their young ages, each one is becoming well-acquainted with the film industry and is learning skills that will serve them well the rest of their lives. Brendan was especially excited to share about his oversight of the mic, a very essential component in good filming!

The off-set time devoted to learning skills consisted of building a library of books dealing with every aspect of producing a film and studying them intently, participating in on-line classes, and getting insight from others in the field. One thing they realized and accepted is that they couldn’t do everything in one film. It was important for them to retain focus and do what they could do well. For example, in The Runner from Ravenshead,  a static camera is used almost exclusively due to the equipment limitations the Steege’s faced. They acknowledged this limitation and then worked with it to their full advantage.

How did the children prepare for their roles?

The Steege’s started out by giving their children a copy of the script, reading it together, and then working with them to memorize the lines. According to them, “It didn’t take.” Recording the lines in an audio format so that the kids could listen on their own and at night in bed proved to be a much more effective learning strategy. Most of the rehearsing was parent-directed, but even when they were playing sometimes they would be rehearsing lines or scenes with each other.

Lisa also mentioned that when she and her sister were growing up they memorized Scripture passages and put hand motions to them, then recited them in front of large groups of people. She carried on this practice with her own children so that they would get accustomed to memorizing and being able to recite things in front of an audience.

All of this training has proved very effective, because each of the young cast members did a fabulous job interacting during the interview and contributing valuable bits of information. And their presence in front of the camera is superb as well!

How long did it take to produce the film?

The filming was sporadic, as it was 100% dependent on the weather. Consistent lighting was a major consideration that affected filming hours as well. During the actual filming, 70% of the recorded audio had background noises – most notably due to the flight path right over the filming location. For this reason, the Steege’s opted to record all of the audio separately. As you might expect, it was a challenge to balance working too much on the film (which would burn everyone out) and taking breaks that were too long (which would result in loss of focus and memory).

What are some of the major deficiencies in the Christian film industry today? How did you seek to avoid those with The Runner from Ravenshead?

There’s still a pervasive feeling of poor quality because most Christian films have a small operating budget. Without the funding, you’re not going to have as many professionals working on the project. In The Runner from Ravenshead, the Steege’s wanted the name of Jesus to be prevalent, but not over-the-top. Although Joel asserted that there is a place for all types of Christian films, they aim to make theirs engaging and meaningful without resorting to a preachy feel. People go to watch a movie for fun, not to hear a sermon. As a filmmaker, though, you want them to leave not only entertained, but also with a sense of hope and the idea of something bigger.

For some time now, I’ve felt like one of the hindrances to quality acting in independent Christian films is that acting is still not perceived by many Christians to be a legitimate career choice. While great strides have been made in many of the technical aspects of filmmaking, I’ve observed very little emphasis on acting. When I posited this to the Steege’s, Joel readily agreed. In fact, he said that at a recent film festival, one of the producers who spoke said that if he had a $50,000 budget, he would spend $40,000 of it to get one good actor!

What was the hardest part about the production?

Undoubtedly trying to do the project while simultaneously having to learn so much of the “nuts and bolts” of the field itself. Particularly with some of the technical aspects of filmmaking, there is a steep learning curve, making it hard to move forward until you’ve developed a better working knowledge. Harrison is one of the ones responsible for rendering and said that he felt like editing and piecing everything together was the most challenging part of the production.

What are some of the key things that you learned along the way?

Amelia expressed that she had learned a great deal about acting. Lisa added that all the kids learned a lot about how to be relaxed in front of the camera. There’s a lot of tension on the “hot seat” and it’s amazing how every one of the other kids can be reciting the lines effortlessly while the one in front of the camera flounders. Apparently this same phenomenon plagues even the most experienced actors and actresses! Clint Eastwood avoids using the term “action” altogether when the cameras start rolling because of the negative reaction it generates from those on set.

Brendan pointed out that he especially enjoyed learning how to do the mic. And Lisa said that endurance was a major emphasis, too, as they sometimes spent long hours working and re-working scenes to get them just right. Obviously there are frustrations and irritations along the way, but by-and-large working on this film project has been a wonderful adventure for the whole family. Addison concludes with, “We’ve got a long ways to learn!”

What advice do you have for other aspiring filmmakers?

Without hesitating, Joel exclaimed, “Go make a movie!” There’s nothing that beats hands-on learning. If you have the opportunity to work with a mentor, that would be great. A lot of learning the craft, though, involves trial and error. You have to know when to use the “tried-and-true” formulas and when to break them.

You also have to realize going into the project that it’s big. Good quality productions are hard without good quality people. Don’t expect to produce your best movie first. It takes time. After all, you’re trying to learn and replicate the quality that you see in films where people have devoted their entire lives to honing their skill in a particular area. So keep a learner’s attitude and be patient.

The Steege’s dream is to continue doing this long-term as a family. And if their productions keep getting better from here on out, I can’t wait to see what they come up with next!

All you have to do to enter is leave a comment on this post. To improve your chances of winning (and to help spread the word about this new film!), you can earn one additional entry for each of the following:

1. Tweet this: Win a DVD of The Runner from Ravenshead! – http://bit.ly/9e5AHm

2. Share about the giveaway on your Facebook status.

3. Put up a blog post linking to this giveaway post.

4. Come up with some other creative way of spreading the word and share what you did in a comment!

Just leave a separate comment for each entry. The winner will be selected using a random number generator on Thursday, July 1, at noon. Enter away – I think you all will love this movie!

The number one thing that sets this film apart from the typical movie fare is that it is comprised of an all-children cast. The cute factor is a major bonus, but I was equally enthralled by the depth of the storyline, the scripting, the acting, the camera work, and the music. Several years ago, I read a commentary on the Christian film industry that highlighted the problematic approach of many Christian filmmakers who were utilizing film as a means of preaching. The commentator went on to make the point that film is a visual medium, and only those who rightly understand and harness it as such will be effective. That’s one thing that The Runner from Ravenshead does so well. The dialogue is sufficient to communicate its message with clarity, but the story largely unfolds before the eyes, not the ears, of the viewer. That said, the accompanying soundtrack, recorded live by the FILMharmonic© Orchestra of Prague, goes a long way toward conveying the tenor of the film and keeping the viewer on the edge of his seat!

From the website, “After a daring escape from Ravenshead Prison, Sam finds herself in worse trouble. Outrunning the relentless wardens seems impossible…she wonders how much longer her strength can hold
out. But help is on the way – kind of. Henry, janitor for the City of Refuge Guide Service, is unexpectedly thrust into the line of duty when all the trained guides are called out on other missions. As he sets out on his long-awaited first assignment, he gets more adventure than he bargained for. Will the enthusiastic but awkward amateur guide persuade Sam to trust him before it’s too late?”

If one of the measurements of a good movie in our family is the number of times we rewind in order to replay a funny line or scene, then The Runner from Ravenshead ranks right up there with the best of them! We were laughing hilariously at points, sitting in suspense at others, and empathizing with the depth of emotions Sam felt in her desperate attempt to gain freedom from her warden. Another thing I love about this film is that it doesn’t do your thinking for you. There are important truths woven throughout the plot, but there is plenty of room for each viewer to ponder the implications and personal application of the story.

In case you can’t tell yet, I really love this movie and highly recommend it for any family. It’s one that our family will be watching over and over again! The film is hot off the production lines and has just become available, so check out the trailer below, and then order your copy today!

Can you give us a synopsis of the documentary you’ve put together: Forbidden History – Dinosaurs and the Bible?
Forbidden History: Dinosaurs and the Bible covers written history, archeology, and eyewitness accounts that prove dinosaurs and man have always existed together. It explains what happened that caused the recent extinction of most dinosaurs only a few thousand years ago and what happened to the surviving dinosaurs. Also, there is brief discussion of the accuracy and trustworthiness of the Bible followed by a look at the over thirty references to dinosaurs mentioned in this historical record. At the end, the viewer is presented with the fact that God is going to come again and judge the world. The law that leads to judgment is discussed and then salvation in Jesus Christ is presented as the only way to be saved from the judgment to come.

When did you first become interested in dinosaurs?
I think that most everyone has a bit of a fascination with dinosaurs, but I first became interested in how they fit in with human history when I listened to a lecture by creation scientist and educator, Dr. Kent Hovind. From a young age, I was taught that the dinosaurs died out millions of years ago, and I just assumed that this was really what happened.

What prompted you to investigate their connection to the Bible?
I really started looking into their connection with the Bible because of supposed “mythological” creatures mentioned in the King James Version, which is one of the oldest (1611) and most used versions of the Bible. The supposed “mythological” creatures mentioned are: Dragon, Behemoth, Leviathan, Cockatrice, and Fiery Flying Serpent. When I found out that the word “dinosaur” did not come into existence until 1841, I thought that it stood to reason that these words which all have to do with different types of ferocious reptile creatures could be references to now extinct creatures that we call dinosaurs.

You have documented some incredible findings in your DVD! In the course of your research, was there anything you learned that especially surprised you?
The thing that surprised me the most was the hundreds, if not thousands, of similar dragon stories, myths, and legends from around the entire globe that are routinely dismissed as primitive imagination. All of the cross-cultural stories carry the same thread – huge vicious reptile creatures that were usually considered a menace to man. My work of discovering more of these stories is far from over. The Forbidden History website will be an ongoing life work to chronicle each and every reasonable dragon story in history. The site is just beginning and is a work in progress.

Why do you think this is an important issue for people to understand?
Today, children in most schools are taught as plain fact that the earth is millions of years old and that the dinosaurs died off millions of years ago. They are taught this because it supports the theory of evolution, which is the predominantly held scientific view. They are not shown all of the evidence and therefore cannot make an unbiased decision about what they believe. Many of these children may never consider the Bible because they hear something like…”the Bible talks about dragons and cockatrices…see the Bible is just a book of myths and stories.”  The Bible is the most important book that has ever been written; Satan knows this, and he wants to discredit the Bible.

What implications does it have?
The implications are very serious. First, everyone should be permitted to make unbiased, open-minded decisions about what they believe. If you don’t have all of the facts in front of you, this is not possible. I believe that when presented with all of the evidence (on both sides) one can easily come to the conclusion that the earth is only 6,000 years old, dinosaurs have always existed with man, there was a global world-wide flood that wiped out nearly all life, Darwinian evolution is absolutely impossible, and God created everything just as the Bible says.  Ultimately, the scientific and educational system of the world hold onto evolution and deep time theories because the only other alternative is special (supernatural) creation as spoken of in the Bible.

How long have you and your wife been homeschooling your children? Was this DVD a family project?
We have been homeschooling our children from the very beginning, so that’s about 17 years. The DVD was not really a family project, however, my family offered me a lot of support in many ways. They watched many clips and edits throughout the process of producing the video. They helped me with editing and spell checking toward the end of the project, and they encouraged me greatly throughout the entire project.

How long did it take you to complete the project?
A total of 18 months. 7 months research, 3 months script writing, and 8 months video and audio editing.

What tips would you offer to other filmmakers who are interested in producing documentaries?
Lay out a step-by-step plan and then follow the plan. There are a lot of good tools (even free tools) out there for making simple video documentaries. Microsoft PhotoStory 3 is a great free beginner program for using still photos to develop a video. Audacity is a free open source audio recorder which is what I used for my documentary.

Start simple with a short 5-10 minute video and publish it on YouTube. Then try another with more content. After you have some experience, a program like Sony Vegas Movie Studio, which costs around $100, would be great tool.

The best tip that I can offer is: Don’t waste your life. We only have so much time here. Use it to the fullest for the Lord. “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus” Colossians 3:17.

How can interested families order a copy of the DVD?
At this time there are two ways that you can get the DVD. The first is to visit our website at: http://www.forbidden-history.com/dinosaur-movie.html. You can watch the film for free at this link. The second is to contact me directly. You can contact me by e-mail. If you send me an e-mail with your address, requesting a DVD, I will send you one free of charge. If you want multiple copies to give away, just let me know. Also, feel free to reproduce the DVD yourself. It is copyrighted, but permission is granted to make unedited duplicate copies to be given away without charge. In the near future, there will be an order page on the website as well.

Any additional comments?
A friend and I have a ministry for evangelizing the lost. We regularly give away a lot of our DVDs, gospel tracts, and booklets. Your prayers are greatly appreciated. Any donations go directly to the purchase of gospel tracts, booklets, and DVDs for free distribution.

I would encourage everyone to get the following text book:  In the Beginning: Compelling Evidence for Creation and the Flood. This book is a hardback science textbook which is one of the best resources available if you would like to have a deeper understanding of the evidence for creation.

Jeremiah Warren, producer of Video #2!

You all have seen his excellent work; now you get a chance to “meet” him! Jeremiah joins me today on the Pajama School Blog for a brief interview:

When did you first become interested in video production? What contributed to that interest?
I was around 13 years old when I saw a short film, created by a family that I know, and they submitted it to the 2004 San Antonio Independent Christian Film Festival. I had no idea that there was so much available to “normal” people in the area of equipment and software to create media of such high quality. That’s what led me into creating short films with a friend of mine. We started with fun little skits – nothing very professional, and most were rather silly. I eventually segued into what I am doing now.

Do you have a homeschooling background? How did that contribute to what you are doing now?
I’ve been homeschooled since day one. I’ve never been in an environment with people who said I wasn’t good enough, or could not do this or that, unlike what is often experienced in a public or private school environment. Due to that fact, I do not have a lack of self worth or feel like I can’t accomplish a task.

If it wasn’t for being homeschooled and raised the way I was by my parents, I would not be where I am today. I’m so grateful to my parents for the sacrifices they made and the hardships they went through in raising me to be the way I am today.

What are some steps you’ve taken to develop the art of video production?
I would check out 4 or 5 books at a time at our local library on filmmaking, or on the software and tools I owned. I’ve also watched and read many tutorials online, which have really helped me learn one of the main programs I am currently using. I also spoke with many people who knew more than me, always asking them questions about what I wanted to know.

What other video projects have you worked on?
I filmed all the behind the scenes video on The Widow’s Might, produced by HeuMoore Productions. I also had a small role in the movie as the guy who mumbles and stumbles over his lines while auditioning for the role of the cowboy.  I have been privileged to work with two business owners and one ministry in putting together promotional commercials.  There are some other feature films that I hope to work on, but nothing official right now.

What are some of your other interests besides filmmaking?
I’ve always loved reading, mostly historical books. I have an interest in computers, and even considered going into IT work, but gave that up after I was in an IT department during one summer. I’m very interested in social networking and marketing, along with promotion and advertising.

Are you open to producing book trailers for other authors? How should they contact you for more information?
In short, yes, but it depends on my schedule, what other projects I am working on, and what the book is about. They can contact me through my website at www.JeremiahJW.com. More of my work they can be viewed on my YouTube channel at www.YouTube.com/JeremiahJW. I update it regularly with new videos.

Any words of advice for aspiring filmmakers?
You don’t need a $5,000 camcorder to make something good. Start where you are now, and learn by using what you have. It’s not about using the highest quality or most expensive gear, but how well you can use it.

Video 1:

Video 2:

Video 3:

VOTE NOW! (Only one vote per person.)

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Time is quickly ticking away – the deadline for submissions is Friday, October 30 – but the field is obviously wide open for competition! There’s still a fabulous free family pass to the 2010 San Antonio Independent Christian Film Festival up for grabs! Just visit the contest page for all the guidelines.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your homeschool experience:
I was homeschooled through all twelve grades. It was a wonderful experience that I am extremely grateful for. My parents always encouraged each of their children to follow their own natural bents and develop their God given talents. So, when one day I announced that I wanted to be a film director, though inwardly freaking out, my parents immediately began to encourage me and try to find ways to help me learn more about filmmaking.

How did you first become interested in filmmaking?
I remember, even as a child, being fascinated by movies and how they were made. When I was about sixteen, I began to lament the fact that the films coming from Hollywood were filled with vulgarity and humanistic worldviews. At the same time, films coming from Christian filmmakers lacked originality and good production value. I had a strong desire to see films that were exciting, original, and artistic, while presenting Godly principles.

What kinds of things have you done to learn about filmmaking and to acquire the necessary skills to produce a film?
I think one of the very foundations of good filmmaking is good photography. So I began to hone my photography skills. I read the book Filmmaking For Dummies, which I recommend to all dummies who are interested in filmmaking. And I started shooting short videos and music videos with my family. I practiced camera work, storyboarding and video and audio editing. The best way to learn how to do something is by doing it.

Do you think you’ve missed out or are at a disadvantage by having chosen not to attend college?
I am sure that attending film school or college would have had a number of benefits. However, instead of spending years learning from the very people whose humanistic films I do not want to imitate, I have kept my worldview intact and my perspective fresh. Instead of investing my resources in classes that may not even pertain directly to filmmaking, I have used them to gain practice and experience in the craft I wish to pursue.

You just produced your first film. Can you tell us about it and where you got the inspiration for it?
Toward The Golden West is a 30-minute short film. It tells the story of one family’s struggle on the home front during WWII. It is about keeping the faith when the world seems dark, and leaving a legacy for the next generation. I find the indomitable spirit of the WWII generation very inspiring. When we decided to make a movie, we felt this was a story we could tell that would be both interesting and realistic to film with our limited resources.

If someone is interested, how can they order a copy of Toward the Golden West?
Send me an email including your name and address, with the subject line ‘Toward The Golden West DVD’. Cost is $8.00, including shipping.

What are your future aspirations in filmmaking or otherwise?
My ultimate desire is to glorify God wherever He leads me in life. I would love to continue being involved in making films that aim for the highest quality in both production and content.

Thanks so much for sharing with us, Molly! I’m excited to see you continue to invest your God-given interests and talents in such worthy projects in the years ahead!

Natalie’s Note: I was privileged to be invited to attend the Premiere Showing of Toward the Golden West and even managed to get my picture taken with the three stars of the show!