TACOMA FILMMAKING CREW READY TO GO >>>

Despite a few major movies filmed in our streets, the Tacoma film industry is in its infancy. It takes more than directors and production crews to build an industry; it takes producers, agents, distribution contacts, dealmakers, lawyers, and an experienced investment community.

Nevertheless, Tacoma-based filmmakers continue to write, shoot and edit their beloved film projects in hopes that a film festival out there will take interest - and maybe, just maybe - launch their filmmaking careers.

One such crew includes writer/director Chad Ruin, actor/producer Joe Rosati and producer Scott Stone, all local filmmaking veterans. Recently the three teamed up to start work on a film based on Ruin's screenplay, A Perfect Life, the story of a homeless man who wishes for the "perfect life," even though he already lived it. According to Ruin's Web site, "A Perfect Life is a glimpse into that one moment we have all had that defines who we are and where our lives will take us, either for the better or the worse."

I caught up with Rosati via email. While wearing his actor's hat we discussed A Perfect Life.

WEEKLY VOLCANO: What impresses you most with Chad's screenplay?

JOE ROSATI: The script is a hard-hitting topical drama with phenomenal range and depth. The story is especially relatable given our current economic times. I believe people will love the film. Also, the script has seen great success as a second rounder at the Austin Film Festival, which is recognized world wide as the ultimate accolade for screenwriters. That's impressive.

VOLCANO: In previous films, you went the comedy route. In this film, you're taking on a more serious role. Was it a difficult adjustment?

ROSATI: I'm about as nervous as any performer would be in this situation, as it's both new and challenging - but a canvas  I get to paint at the same time. I have been going over the script and rehearsing with Chad and Scott. Also, I'm more experienced in life and acting and (have) been through some relationships in my life that have prepared me for the role in different ways. I am honored and excited to be cast as the lead.

VOLCANO: Where are you in the filmmaking process?

ROSATI: We're in preproduction right now. We begin filming next month - in various locations throughout Tacoma. Our goal is to have it done in time for the 2011 film festival circuit, which means having a completed project by fall.

VOLCANO: Getting a film accepted into a festival must not be an easy task.

ROSATI: It's certainly not a cakewalk. If you look at festivals like Telluride and others of that caliber, they want you to have it premier at their festival, which is a tough call. First, to get into a festival is no easy task, and then some of the festivals want that "premier" status. They ask you to say no to the other festivals that you may have been accepted to. There's actually a film about the agonizing process of getting a film into a festival called Official Rejection. Check it out here.

VOLCANO: Are you ready for this?

ROSATI: I am. I'm excited. Although we still need a few more key components to the filmmaking project, as well as money to pay the film festival fees. For those who would like to help us, we have set up a donation on PayPal. As I like to say - every cent count.

LINK: Rosati's previous film Limbo