FEATURE

From Buck Rogers to La Femme Nikita:
Adventures with Guy Magar – A Review of the Action/Cut, Directed By Seminar

by Brad Jacques

First of all, let me say one thing, if any director out there thinks that he doesn't need this class... ring the bell, 'cause school's in! And the teacher is director Guy Magar. Guy is a twenty-five year veteran of episodic television and independent films... and he is here to teach. And learn you shall!

Guy was the first director to screen a color film at The American Film Institute and the last director to get the Steven Spielberg contract at Universal Studios. His first assignment there was to direct the final episode of "BUCK ROGERS IN THE 25th CENTURY"...my favorite television show as a kid! In fact, Guy's anecdotes rival that of Speilberg's himself, including storming the Black Tower over at Universal, locking himself in an office with an executive and not coming out until he had a job. Since that fateful day, Guy has directed many episodes of many shows including the popular 80's series "The A-Team" and 90's "Sliders" and "La Femme Nikita". When he's not working, he's teaching. He shares these experiences with his class.

Guy's class "Action/Cut: Directed By" is the only course I know that is taught by not only a professional director, but an active one. He just wrapped production on his fourth feature... a horror film produced by Mirimax's sister company, Dimension Films. Oh, and by the way, his first feature "introduced" Matt LeBlanc of "Friends" fame.

If you think you can't afford this course, I say you can't afford to miss it. In fact, the lessons you will learn are priceless. The two day course has been designed and updated over the years and executed with militaristic precision. No one will walk away unsatisfied. Guy will not let you leave until your every question has been answered to your utmost satisfaction. And take my word for it... you will walk away extremely inspired. I felt the two day intensive schedule was like an emotional rollercoaster ride and if you have the same passion and love for the art and craft of filmmaking, or "cinematic storytelling" as I think of it, you too will walk away feeling the same fire and drive to forge ahead!

And it doesn't end there. Networking is a huge part of this event. The class is filled with industry professionals and you will meet them all (I've already gotten work from this experience). Everyone signs an email address list and you instantly become an alumni to the seminar, allowing you to attend other industry functions... at the studios!.

I know what you're thinking... this inspiration will fade away. Well, if it does, fear not! Guy provides consultation for anyone who is an alumni of the seminar, by phone or in person. This alone is priceless at whatever level of success you are at. Need help finding an agent? Call Guy!

"Networking is key to this business. The sooner you realize this, the better off you will be". These were the first words Guy said to me and the last ones I say to you.

Guy Magar's Directing Seminar, Action Cut/Directed by, is scheduled for its debut in New England March 3rd & 4th, 2001 at Longfellow Hall, Harvard University. Visit www.actioncut.com for more information.

Brad Jacques directed the feature films LEAVING SCARS, PRAY FOR POWER, and SERIAL INTENTIONS, which is currently in Post-Production. He is scheduled to direct the horror film "Witchcraft 2001: Hellspawn" in May. He lives in Los Angeles and can be reached at his Raleigh Studios editing facility Post Magic at (323)871-5697.