The Ballad of Burd Janet has begun the third and final leg of production, which should be completed by mid-fall 2006. This film, a jazz-age retelling of the Scottish folktale "Tam Lin", relates the tale of a devout young maid who seeks to save her smitten swain from his aunt, a scheming spirit medium. Filmmaker Chelsea Spear has drawn inspiration from New England folklore and German Expressionist films, as well as the work of modern silent directors such as Lisa Hammer and Guy Maddin, to explore class and spirituality in turn-of-the-century Massachusetts.To unspool this yarn, Spear has assembled a cast ranging in age from 15 to 70. Her predominantly female crew has already shot one-sixth of the movie at historic locations throughout Medford, most notably the Shepherd Brooks Manor and the Isaac Royall House. They have forged bonds with local cultural organizations such as the Malden Historical Society, Theatre@First, and the Commonwealth Vintage Dancers. What this production has in personal and community riches, however, it must make up in financial riches.
The projected budget for completion is about $50,000, with half of that allotted for production costs such as 16mm film stock and processing, location fees, craft service, rental of scenery and props, and other items unique to period filmmaking (most notably, vintage cars). The cast and crew are volunteering their time and energy to make this film a reality, but could also use some help.
Please consider making a donation to Ogygia Avenue Films and The Ballad of Burd Janet. Craft Service donors ($1-19) will be named on the website and will be able to download a high-quality version of the film at the time of its completion. Film Stock donors ($20-99) will be listed in the closing credits and will receive a DVD copy of the finished film (or two free tickets to a screening in their hometown). On-Location donors ($100+) will receive all those benefits, and can also appear as an extra in the film or have a character named after them.
If you're unable to donate to the film but would still like to take part, sound the bridle ring and spread the good word. Add us on MySpace, blog about us, or send the URL to someone who might take an interest in an unusual beast such as ours. Of course, it's not every day one can be a movie mogul for the cost of a DVD. We appreciate all the help we can get, and we look forward to seeing you at the movies.
Much love,
Chelsea Spear and the Ballad of Burd Janet cast and crew.