Becoming Magnum

Hollywood Confidential Mentoring

noreply@blogger.com (becomingmagnum) — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 03:24:00 +0000

Effective as of Sunday December 20th I am now enrolled in Gary Goldstein's "Hollywood Confidential" Mentoring program.

I've had a chance to read the 1st chapter of his new book "Tactical Toolbelt for Screenwriters: Success Strategies to Market & Grow Your Passion as a Career," and listen to a couple of the archived audio files recorded over the past 7 months.

Amazing stuff. I'm looking forward to learning about how to approach Hollywood and Pitch "Becoming Magnum" to the powers-that-be and getting things off the ground.

I've also come across a great website: http://www.documentaryhowto.com

They have some great videos teaching you how to create a Documentary.

I've also come across some great Apps. for the iPhone to use to shoot "Becoming Magnum" with.

I look forward to getting things off the ground, and taking the next steps forward.

All the Best,

Mike.

Website Re-Design

noreply@blogger.com (becomingmagnum) — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 06:56:00 +0000

I have finally found myself a Web Designer to help me revamp my http://www.becomingmagnum.tv/ Website, which was originally intended to simply allow people to view my Trailer.

My Web Designer is also a Graphic Artist who has updated/improved my original picture design that took me forever to figure out how to do on my own with Adobe Photoshop.

His pictures blow me away. It's going to be really tough to figure out which picture to go with. The picture with the original Ferrari 308 GT from the TV Series looks great, and definitely lets you know at one glance what it's about.

Though I also like the newer, modern F360 Spyder.

I think I'm going to have to hold a Poll or something and have others Vote on their favorite design to help me figure out which one to go with.

I look forward to seeing the new design of the Website in the next few days.

I am incredibly grateful for all of the talented and gifted and amazing people I've had the pleasure of meeting and working with on this journey so far.

Dale's design's are definitely helping me to really get a sense of BECOMING MAGNUM beginning to move forward.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Mike.

MOMENTUM'S PICKING UP!

noreply@blogger.com (becomingmagnum) — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 09:53:00 +0000

Momentum is definitely beginnning to pick up for BECOMING MAGNUM! I recently took a "BRANDING FOR THE ACTOR" Workshop and I learned a lot of great things about BRANDING as an Actor that have really begun to explode some crazy ideas for myself as an Actor, and for the BECOMING MAGNUM BRAND.

2 Weeks ago, my JV (Joint Venture) Partners and I finally got the Contract Signed with The Cecil to Promote a Wednesday Night Event, and we get to keep a 50% of the Profits from the Event.

Since I've been developing, and planning to launch BECOMING MAGNUM I realized, "Why don't I throw a ROBIN MASTER'S "Night Of Dreams" MASQUERADE PARTY at The Cecil?"

The Masquerade Party will be the launch of both my Entrepreneurial/JV Career and the Launch Party for BECOMING MAGNUM.

Since it's a Celebration and a Launch, we are planning to invite the original cast of the "Magnum, P.I." TV Series as well as everyone who's ever been involved at some point of the Journey so far, and get them to show their Support through Alcohol Sales.

We are in the beginning stages of planning the MASQUERADE PARTY which will be a Night Club Experience with Partially Naked and Masked Men & Women.

We're going to be inviting everyone we know in the TV & Film Industry to the Party.

I've also come up with a whole new story idea. Instead of having the focus be just on myself, I've decided to bring on David Attar and Duane Patterson, and document each of our journey to getting cast in the upcoming "Magnum, P.I." We will be Rehearsing the Pilot Script, "Don't Eat Yellow Snow In Hawaii," for the Magnum, P.I. TV Series, and we will be needing to cast an Actor to play HIGGINS, (the Major Domo of Robin Master's Estate) while I lose the 120-140 lbs that I in order to play Thomas Magnum.

The INTENTION is to do a Re-Make of the Pilot Script, Rehearsing it while I lose the Weight, and then going to shoot it On Location in Hawaii using HD Camcorder's. Though I am going to have to contact the Powers that be to find out if I need to and/or can get Permission to do my Re-Make, and to use the Robin Master's name for my launch party.

The shoot/Web Documentary will last for at least 12 months while I lose the weight, we shoot our Fan HD Re-Make, and basically promote the Magnum, P.I. Movie in our bid to get cast.

I'VE GOT A SPONSOR

I met with Rene Neilly today (Brad King's wife/publicist) and she confirmed for me that Brad and his Business Partner would like to come onboard and Sponsor me with a 1 Year Supply of ULTIMATE Supplements and Brad's Nutritional Guidance.

I then went to a Real Estate Investor's Meeting - where I've been going to learn about Real Estate Investing, and to perhaps find Deals, and be a Bird Dog and Find Buyers and earn a nice Profit.

I don't quite get it all (I've just started learning), but I've got some great "Creative Real Estate" Mentors. Eventually I will find the right opportunity and make some good money from.

I then popped into an Internet Marketing Mastermind Group, where I ended up standing in front of the Group and Pitching "BECOMING MAGNUM" to them.

I started off by showing them my Trailer at http://www.becomingmagnum.tv/, and then jumping into the update, about including David Attar/Rick, and Duane Patterson/TC, and then into the Pitch for the Robin Master's Masquerade Party, doing the Re-Make of the "Magnum, P.I." Pilot and our search for HIGGINS.

The group was going to select from a handful of Pitches to help them Launch their Project. Unfortunately I didn't get picked. However, I did some networking and met some great contacts that have solid potential to partner with.

Plus, it also taught me a few things. It's time to look into going to TOAST MASTER'S and beginning to Practice my Pitch, on my Feet for when it's time to go to Hollywood and/or to do my Pitch on the Phone for Tom Selleck, and Brian Grazer.

I'm an Actor, and I love performing, and sharing ideas, and sharing my creatively strategic ideas.

It is time to focus my "Mind Powers" (John Kehoe) and Visualize using VAKS (Dr. Lee Pulos) and "Manifest" the Meeting I want with Mr. Selleck and Mr. Grazer and the outcome I'd like to have.

ACTION STEPS FOR THE NEXT WEEK. (Tuesday November 24th - Tuesday December 1st.

1) Get a Firm Agreement/Contract Signed with Personal Trainer, Actor Training, Hollywood Mentor(s), owner of Private Investigation Firm, Entrepreneurial & Success Mentors, etc.

2) Contact a Toastmaster's, and start working on my Physical/Verbal Pitch.

3) Find a Web Designer to revamp http://www.beocmingmagnum.tv/ so that I can update it, and begin ramping up my Internet Marketing Campaign.

It's gonna be a lot of fun!

With Gratitude,

Mike.

A Week Full of Aha's and a Few Turning Points

noreply@blogger.com (becomingmagnum) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 21:49:00 +0000

I feel kind of like an idiot today. I just realized three things this week that I'd been needing, and just realized that I was unconsciously looking for, were right in front of me the whole time.

AWARENESS is incredibly interesting. How "The thoughts that I've been thinking lately, really do have an impact in my immediate and current life, and how the "thoughts that I've been thinking for the past 10 years or more, have created the moment I'm living in RIGHT NOW."

After taking an assessment of my life, at this present moment, I thought about how horrible of a spot I am in right now, and how I'm in an incredible spot as well, and that that very paradox is a result of my "thoughts at this very moment," and of the "thoughts that I HAD been thinking," in the past.

The Horrible: I am 36 years, and I'm still Bouncing and doing Security and struggling with money, and still having to borrow money from my parents because my car got towed, and I had no money at all, and still needed to get to work.

I've fallen behind in my debts, and in September because of some late payments, I had my Cell Phone cut off, and then my car broke down, and it was either spend $100/month + $15/Night in Cab rides home from work 4 nights/week, roughly $340 or $420 to get my car fixed. As a result, I missed a payment on 3 of my Student Loans from over 10 years ago.

This payday, I have to pay my rent, and $590 for a Payday Loan that I needed to get so I could get groceries and eat, as well as to get my car fixed.

After I pay both of those back, I won't have any money left. Which means I have to get another Payday Loan so I can make a payment of $100 on my Cell Phone so it doesn't get cut off again, and $135 for my Car Insurance, plus I will also need food for the next 2 weeks. I have to start making healthier choices, and I don't want to have to pay $91 Interest for $500. Survice on $165 for 2 weeks? Gas, and food? What is the Interest on $400?

My left knee probably needs to be operated on, and is constantly in a lot of pain, and a few years ago, I tore the meniscus in my right knee, and my right knee has never fully healed, and my Sports Doctor (2004) at the time said he didn't want to have to operate on me.

Physically I am over 400 lbs. I'm not exactly sure of my weight because I've been nervous about finding out the truth. I should probably go and get tested for diabetes as well, since a good portion of my family have recently been diagnosed in recent years.

I have poor circulation in my legs, and feet, and my feet are always constantly sore. After working a full 7 hours at the Door on my feet every Friday and Saturday night at the Bar, when I wake up the next afternoon I almost need a Walker to get around because my feet are so sore.

There have been a few times in the past year that I've felt shortness of breath, a really wierd sensation in my stomach and my chest, and even light headedness.

Take a few minutes to consider the implications of that.

My PRESENT is the FUTURE RESULT of the THOUGHTS that I'VE BEEN THINKING for the PAST 10 YEARS.

So what HAVE I BEEN THINKING?

I have to take a look back at what my Negative Self Talk and Mind Chatter has been. There are definitely things like, "I'm not good enough," "I can't believe how much I weigh," and "I'm over 400 lbs!?" or "I'm always so sore."

"Why am I always broke?"

"I wish I had more money."

"I can't afford."

"I have being broke/having no money."

"I don't like how I look."

Then I'd sit back and dream about my future, and what I would LOVE for my life to be like.

However, when it came time to TAKING ACTION to move myself forward towards my Goals, I would come up with EXCUSE, AFTER EXCUSE, AFTER EXCUSE.

Which has led me to my recent realizations that have me feeling like an idiot, (but first, a brief history).

I started taking Acting and Screenwriting Classes in 2007/2008, at the University of Alberta. I took Bill Meilen's Playwriting Class, but he allowed me to write the 1st Draft of my Screenplay. An incredibly horrible draft, which taught me the importance of thinking. To think out, and daydream, and let my imagination go wild, and to research, research, research. My 2nd Draft was so much better.

I took Jan Henderson's Introduction to Improv Acting. It was a turning point in my life. After that very first Class, I knew that I wanted to be an Actor more than anything else. Ever since my Football Career had ended, I didn't have anything that really pumped me up. But Acting and Improv were suddenly exciting, despite having grown up shy and massively self-conscious.

I've learned the fundamentals in University and on the Stage at The Walterdale Theatre, doing Plays like, "The Duchess of Malfi," as the Grim Reaper, a Guardsman, and an Executioner, and in "Dr. Faustus," as Devil #3.

I went to Film School for a 1 Year Intensive Actor Training where I took voracious notes, and then I found the Actor's Foundry and Matthew Harrison and Jeb Beach (http://www.actorsfoundry.com/). Matthew has developed a phenomenal technique for the Actor's Toolkit, and he has an amazing understanding of human behaviour, and how to really nurture and push and pull things out of people to take their performances to a much higher, and more truthful level.

Week 1: At the Foundry is about getting the Script and doing a Table Read of your Scene for the month. Doing a read through, and then in a group setting, analyzing the scene, breaking it down, figure out your relationship, and what other questions you need to get answered when reading the entire script.

Weeks 2, 3, and 4 are about figuring out how you relate/connect to the character you are playing in the scene, blocking it, and then shooting it.

I've also done some work recently with Darren Jacklin (http://www.darrenjacklin.com/) where he began to ask me questions about what "the average day in my ideal life" would be like?

What time would I wake up? What would be the first thing I do? Would I jump out of bed, and be excited about the day, or would I be tired and miserable? What would I have for breakfast? Would I have breakfast with anyone else? If so, with whom?

What would I do after breakfast? What would I do for lunch? Where would I be? How would I be dressed? Who would I be with? Would it be formal or informal?

This got me to thinking back about my Acting Career over the past 10 years, and how I haven't fully committed myself 100%.

Sure I've gone to Film School, I got myself an Agent, I auditioned for a few years, I booked some work on The Chris Isaak Show, and I auditioned for X-Men, and Freddy vs. Jason where I got to meet one of my idols, and I've done a handful of Commercials, and some Indie Horror flicks, and been an extra on Stargate SG-1 and Smallville.

I haven't had an Agent in the past 4 years, since my last one dumped me. I haven't been Auditioning.

I've worked as Security in the Film Industry for the past 3 years.

I've taken Acting Classes.

But I haven't fully committed myself, and that's why nothing has been moving forward Acting wise. I've always been too busy with everything else, and making excuses.

That's when I had my 1st AHA of the week.

The very fundamental, and the very least that I should be doing as an Actor, is reading Scripts. Finding the ones that I like/enjoy, and begin breaking them down. Analysing them. Printing them up. Making my Choices. Figuring out what my Character Statement would be for every single scene.

I should be doing that for Screenplays for Feature Films and TV Series.

I should be rehearsing scenes with other actors. I love rehearsing. I should be learning my lines.

To that end, I am going to start with the Pilot Script for the MAGNUM, P.I. TV Series. It's my Goal to land the role of THOMAS MAGNUM and to get Tom Selleck to play MY Thomas Magnum's dad.

I own a copy, and I'm going to start analyzing it, and breaking down every scene that Thomas Magnum is in. Once I've analyzed the script, I can then begin Rehearsing it like a Stage Play, while I lose weight, and once I've lost over 100 lbs or more, I will film it and post it on my Website and have people compare my performance to Tom Selleck's. Hopefully create a bit of a buzz, and get me a shot at the Magnum, P.I. Movie.

After analyzing MAGNUM, P.I. it is onto "Supernatural," and "Smallville," and "Eureka," and "V," and "Caprica," and "House," and "Heroes."

Then it'll be "Iron Man," and "Wolverine," and "X-Men 3," and "Transformers 1 and 2," and "G.I.Joe."

So I can start envisioning/manifesting the Career and Life that I want.

What steps can I be taking today, RIGHT NOW, for my health and my diet? What Lifestyle Changes can I begin making to my current habits?

That's when I had my 2nd AHA!

The 3 fundamental exercises I can begin doing are: 1) Pushups 2) Situps and 3) Stairs (for Cardiovascular. )

I have 16 stairs from the main floor to the 2nd level of my house. I can begin doing those on a daily basis, to start getting myself back into shape. I can even do it a few times/day as they are right here.

I can also start making some healthier choices in cooking. I can either have my brother or my friends roommate, who are both chefs, to either come over to my place, or I can go over to their place, and get them to teach me how to cook some vegetarian meals, and I can Video Tape them instead of taking notes. I can even share with them my budget for the week, and find out what they would suggest for meals.

That way I can begin moving forward with nutrition and physical activity (only going as far as my body can I handle), and I can begin committing 100% to 10% of what it means to be an Actor.

What future do I envision for myself?

Where would I like to be 5 years from now?

What would I like my life to be like? Am I married? What is she like?

How is my Acting Career? I'm a Lead in a TV Series? Am I the current Action Star in Feature Films? Where do I live? Do I own on or more homes/properties? Who have I worked with? How much do I love what I do? Who have I met? Who am I friends with?

What would I like my life to be like 5 years from now? 4 years? 3 years? 1 year? 6 months?

But for right now, the questions is: "Where would I like to be 1 year from now?" (What are my thoughts going to have to be?)

I am 260 lbs, and I'm now in the best shape I've ever been in my entire life!

I am healthy, active, fit, and strong. I've never felt better. I can't believe how young and healthy I feel.

I love how I look in the mirror, but I love how I feel inside. My life is amazing!

I've finally been to Hawaii, the Carribean, Peru, and Australia!

I've finally completed BECOMING MAGNUM, and it was even more amazing a journey and an experience than I could have ever imagined. I've met, and become friends with so many great people on this journey, and as a result, I've just been blown away by it all.

I now live in San Diego in the Winter, and Vancouver in the Summer. And I get to spend more time with my friends, and growing both my Business and my Acting Career.

I've finally paid off my Student Loans, and bought my dream car - the 2009 Chevy Camaro (Bumble Bee/Transformers).

I am dating an amazing woman, and we've had a lot of fun together.

I look forward to what the next 12 months has in store!

The 3rd AHA of the Week

I began working on putting together a Business Plan this week for BECOMING MAGNUM, so that I can raise some money from investors, at the very least to get my Website revamped, and to hire a crew part-time so I can create some videos, pay for my Personal Trainer, as well as Supplements and Nutrition for my Weight Loss, as well as for Acting Classes at The Actor's Foundry.

I decided to ask my buddy Sam for his advice on putting together a Business Plan, since he has a background in Finance.

I will soon need to put together a team that can help me move this whole thing forward. I will need a Webmaster/Designer and a Salesperson. Someone good at negotiation, and knows the money world. Someone like Sam. I haven't asked him yet, but I will once we've completed the Business Plan together, if he'd like to come on board.

That's it for now.

See you at the top.

Mike.

Step #1: Creating my Visual Goal

noreply@blogger.com (becomingmagnum) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 23:45:00 +0000

If you're anything at all like me, and you've gone through the whole Yo-Yo Dieting/Weight loss routine, I'm sure you've heard of the importance of creating your VISUAL GOAL for yourself. On THE BIGGEST LOSER and Tommy Europe's THE LAST 10 POUNDS BOOTCAMP they usually have the Contestants pick out a Goal Wardrobe to fit into and wear.

I've decided to create my GOAL PHYSIQUE - using Photoshop to help me create my Visual Goal. I've taken a picture of myself from a few years ago when I was lighter, and in better shape, and "Cut my Head off," and then re-attached it onto the BODY of someone who has a similar build to what I'd like to achieve.

I've taken a picture of WWE's RANDY ORTON, and replaced his head with my own. So I now have a physical representation of what I am working towards. I've printed up some copies of the new Goal Physique and taped it up in my bedroom. I've also taken a picture of it with my Cell phone, and I've made it my Wallpaper on my Cell phone. Now, whenever I am tempted to make a decision that takes me away from my Goal, all I have to do is flip my phone open, SEE my Goal, and then make the decision to either move towards my goal, or away from it.

It's time for me to start making better decisions that move me in the direction of my goals, instead of away from them. I realized that I am the one who has the power to either keep me stuck where I am, or to start moving towards my goals. It is time to start moving forward, and getting myself unstuck.

I am worth it, and I deserve to be happy. It won't be easy, but it's time to start making certain sacrifices now in order to achieve my goals.

See you at the top.

Mike.

An overview of the past 18 months leads to a Turning Point.

noreply@blogger.com (becomingmagnum) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 22:06:00 +0000

With all of my financial woes that came as a result of September, and have continued on into October, it has forced me to take a step back and reassess the past 5-6 months. Let me give you a quick re-cap of how BECOMING MAGNUM has evolved since April of 2008.

I got a call from Director Kryshan Randall in March of 2008 asking if I'd like to be in a TV Pilot Trailer that he was directing in April. I've always wanted to work with him, so of course, I agreed.

It was for a show called "The Promoter," created by Ken Craw and Michael Hamilton. The first day of shooting was in a Penthouse. I brought my Sony PSP with my Trailer for BECOMING MAGNUM on it. I met the Creators, Ken and Michael, and asked them what kind of background/experience they had, and how long it took them to go from concept to Production on their "Trailer." At the time, Ken was a Writer on the TV Series "Robson Arms," and Michael had directed some Sports Documentaries. It took them 6 months to go from concept to production of the Trailer.

I mentioned that I had my own Project that I had been developing, and that I had a Trailer of my own on me. I pulled out my Sony PSP, and played the Trailer for them. At the first scene, Ken asked if this was BECOMING MAGNUM.

He had heard about it from his friend Coreena Robertson, who turned out to be a mutual friend. Both Ken and Michael loved the Trailer. Shortly thereafter, I found out that the owner of the Penthouse was Erin Cebula, an Entertainment Reporter for Global TV. She loved the Trailer as well, and loved MAGNUM, P.I.

Within 6 weeks of the shoot, Ken and Michael both came on board to help Direct and Produce BECOMING MAGNUM, and a few weeks later scored us a DEVELOPMENT DEAL with CTV. That Deal was in June of 2008, and it took until March of 2009 to get the Development Funds released to us.

At the end of November of 2008 while taping my performance for a scene at the Actor's Foundry, I ended up injuring my left knee. I had an MRI done at the end of February, and it turns out I tore the meniscus in my knee.

In April of 2009 we did a 3 Day Shoot for the development deal. We shot 2 days worth of footage at THE ACTOR'S FOUNDRY, where I study and 1 Day with my Personal Trainer, OCEAN BLOOM.

They then sent over 15 hours worth of footage to the Editor, who cut it down to a 3 Minute Promotional Trailer and sent it off to CTV. Because of the current recession, CTV decided that they were no longer going to be in the business of doing "One Off" Documentaries. CTV was out, but fortunately I got to retain ownership of the Footage.

In May I ended up falling and twisting my left ankle and knee. I haven't gotten my knee checked out yet, but there is definitely something severely wrong with my knee.

On July 1st, I moved into my current home, which is an amazing house, worth $1.3 Million and I only pay $500/month Rent. (The upside to the Recession.)

Shortly after we got the word that CTV was out, I did a Teleconference Call with the BECOMING MAGNUM TEAM (Myself, Brad King (my Nutritionist) and his wife and publicist Rene Neilly, Ken Craw, and Ocean Bloom.) We discussed the possibility of merging BECOMING MAGNUM with a Reality Show concept that Ocean had previously developed for Insight Films.

It was a great call, and we discussed where to go now that CTV was out of the picture. It has always been my intention to do something with the Internet. To Broadcast and/or Distribute it Online. Unfortunately neither Ken or Michael have any experience doing anything Online as it is all still so new, and so they both decided to pull out of the project. Both of them felt that it would just be way too much work to take on to create a Reality Show.

Ken is currently working as a Writer for the TV Series HEARTLAND, and Michael is busy working on some other projects, and neither felt that they could put in the time and effort that would be required to get a Reality TV Series up and running.

In July, I brought on 2 Business Partners for my JOINT VENTURE Business (I studied with JAY ABRAHAM for 14 months as part of his MASTER OF PASSIVE INCOME Mentoring Course.) It completely exploded my mind open to the possibilities of generating income, as well as to the world of Marketing and doing Joint Ventures. It has also been great in helping me to develop some concepts for BECOMING MAGNUM.

In August we landed our/my 1st JV Deal for what I am hoping will be my EXIT STRATEGY from Bouncing/Security. (I have wanted to get out of Bouncing/Security for the past 5 years, but haven't had confidence in myself or my ability to get out. I'm not interested in replacing Bouncing/Security with a Labour job, so my options before Jay Abraham have been limited.)

I was hoping to get the Deal, and begin working on it immediately, and then be out of Bouncing/Security shortly thereafter. That hasn't come to fruition. I'm hoping to get the Contract signed within the next 3 days, and beginning work on the JV Deal.

I have been struggling financially for just about as long as I can remember. I've gotten stuck in a rut, and I've used the EXCUSE of not having very much money prevent me from cleaning up my diet (eating healthy is expensive), I'm not a very good cook, and every time in the past that I've lost weight, it was because I pretty much ate the EXACT SAME meals EVERY DAY.

I need to learn HOW to prepare better meals, with some variety. I also need to begin TAKING ACTION every single day, that moves me closer to, or in the direction of, my goals.

I have to figure out what it is that I CAN DO, every single day, to start getting myself in shape, losing the weight, exercising, and eating right.

I have to create an ACTION PLAN that I can stick to, that will move me forward in the direction of my goals, with or without money.

I've wanted to revamp my Website for a long time, but again, I don't have the money to do that at this time. I know that the situation I am currently in is temporary, but being right in the centre of it, it feels like it is permanent.

Since the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result, I realized that it was time to take a step back and figure out what it is that I can BEGIN DOING IMMEDIATELY to start getting different results.

Since I don't currently have the money to get my Website revamped, (which I've been using as an EXCUSE from taking action), and I don't currently have any extra money, and things have been pretty tight financially, (for the gym, and better nutrition, acting classes, new headshots, etc.) which has also become an EXCUSE, I have decided to start a new Mantra/Affirmation: NO MORE EXCUSES. ONLY ACTION & RESULTS.

For my Website: I'd like to be able to upload Video's directly onto the site, including Video Blogs, as well as having this Blog linked directly to the site, have an ABOUT ME Tab, as well as the ability to create and share specific content for the Website. However, that's not happening at the moment.

What can I do right now?

I am going to look at YouTube and see what I can do to upload Video's and/or Video Blogs onto YouTube and then link them to my Blog. I ended up checking out some interesting Videos Online yesterday which taught me about Steadi-Cams. The key is the Counter Balance. I immediately tried it out with my Sony Camcorder and Tripod, and it appears to work. I can't believe how incredibly simple it is.

I also watched a few Video's that taught me about a Basic 3 Point Lighting System. Next up is to learn about recording sound, and find out if there is an inexpensive/cheap way to record good quality sound with my Camcorder.

I have been hoping to use the Panasonic DVX100 Camera (which we used to shoot my current, and slightly outdated Trailer). But it looks like I am going to have to use my Sony Camcorder until I can afford better quality equipment and gear, as well as to hire a crew.

So for right now, I will be doing everything on my own, with what I have, until things begin to improve for me financially.

The Bottom Line: NO MORE EXCUSES. ONLY ACTION & RESULTS.

It's time for me to go and do a NO EXCUSES WORKOUT. (15 Pushups & 20 Situps.)

See you at the top.

Mike.

In a bit of a slump.

noreply@blogger.com (becomingmagnum) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 01:59:00 +0000

Ever since the 1st of September I've been in a bit of a slump. Things with my 1st Joint Venture Deal haven't gone exactly according to plan. We got the Deal (handshake) back on August 12th, and still haven't gotten the contract signed. (I'm partly at fault as I wasn't able to get the Owner to sign it before he went on Vacation for 3 weeks, and then once he got back I took it in to get signed, and he wanted me to make some Amendments before signing it.)

I will hopefully get it signed by Monday October 12, 2009, and then can begin working on putting things into place to get myself out of Bouncing (doing Security) once and for all.

Financially I've taken a few big setbacks, and I'm struggling to just get by. There was a mixup at work when I switched from 1 Bar to another (owned by the same guys) as their are 2 different Accountants, and one didn't share info with the other. My paycheque for the 1st of September was over $650 short, and I've been playing catch up ever since.

Last week my car broke down (radiator) and I had to park it while on my way to picking up my Paycheque. Then my Cell phone service got cut because I'm behind in making my payment. That'll be $200 to get my phone re-activated, and at least $500 to get my car fixed. (Money I don't have), plus I need to get some new Headshots and a Voice Over Demo Reel put together for my Acting Career, and I need to find a new Agent, as I currently don't have one.

I currently have $100 to my name, and I work until 2:30am and Transit will only get me so far. I have to take a $15 Cab ride home, and I have at least 6 more shifts before Payday. I also need to get food, so things are going to be tight for a little bit longer.

So things obviously aren't working out like I had hoped, and I've also been struggling with figuring out how to come up with money to get my Website revamped, and how to begin Production on BECOMING MAGNUM.

That's when I remembered 2 Key things: 1) It's time to re-read "UNSTOPPABLE," by Cynthia Kersey and begin building my UNSTOPPABLE Action Plan, and 2) My DVD FILM SCHOOL DVD's and Work Books that I bought at a Dov S-S Simens "2 DAY FILM SCHOOL" Workshop I took.

I've also realized that there are certain things that I can begin doing today (without money) for the Production of BECOMING MAGNUM.

So it is OFFICIALLY time for me to begin documenting (through my Blog and Twitter updates) as well as using my Sony Camcorder. It isn't going to be as professional looking as I would have liked, but I can at least begin doing something.

I have NO MORE EXCUSES.

It is time for constant, and consistent daily action. The only way I'm going to get out of this SLUMP/RUT is through taking action, and making decisions that are in line with my Goals.

The time is now,

Mike.

Becoming Magnum Trailer

noreply@blogger.com (becomingmagnum) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 10:06:00 +0000

Just in case you haven't seen my Trailer for "Becoming Magnum" on my Website at www.becomingmagnum.tv, here it is for your viewing pleasure.

1st Gym Workout followed by interesting experience...

noreply@blogger.com (becomingmagnum) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 09:48:00 +0000

I ended up going to a local community gym tonight with 2 of my roommates. It wasn't really much of a gym, but I did end up doing about 15 minutes cardio/warm up on the Stationary Bike, and then I did:

Pec Deck: 20 x 25 lbs, Rear Delts: 20 x 25 lbs, Pec Deck: 20 x 45 lbs, Rear Delts: 20 x 45 lbs, Pec Deck: 15 x 75 lbs, Rear Delts: 15 x 65 lbs.

Incline DB Press: 15 x 25 lbs, 15 x 25 lbs, 10 x 35 lbs

DB Shrugs: 15 x 70 lbs, 15 x 70 lbs, 15 x 70 lbs.

After we got home, one of my new roommates has an Xbox 360 and we ended up playing "Guitar Hero World Tour," and I was using a rolling computer chair, with one foot resting on the seat, and the other foot on the floor while I played, so that I could look at the buttons on the guitar as I played.

It turns out that I got one heck of a Leg Workout doing this, as well as my wrist and forearms were a bit sore afterwards as well.

I think this is going to lead to a fun experiment. I'm going to see if I can use "Guitar Hero" and turn it into a Fun Workout because of my current issue with my knees, to strengthen up my legs as best as I can.

Shortly afterwards, another buddy that I work with stopped by. I ended up sharing with him my plans and goals for Becoming Magnum. He used to be overweight, and ended up getting into Boxing, and has lost quite a bit of weight. I was asking about his training, and he mentioned that where he trains, it only costs $100/year for a Membership, and that a lot of people quite because they can't handle the training that a boxer goes through.

That is something I'm going to look into. Boxing, along with Ju Jitsu with Shihan Tim Henry, my current instructor's instructor.

Eddie also happened to come across some meal recipes from Will Brink's "Fat Loss Revealed" Program, and commented on how similar it was to his diet for training. That is something I'm going to look into tomorrow, so I can begin changing my diet.

I've been Twittering what I've been eating daily for the past couple of weeks, and now that I'm conscious of it, it's pretty nasty.

I am responsible for every single decision that I make regarding food. No one else.

It is time that I start kicking things up a few notches, and turning my diet and my life around. It's time that I begin taking "Becoming Magnum" seriously, and starting to love myself again, and take care of my health.

That's it for now.

Mike.

MIND POWER & HOLOSYNC - Day #7

noreply@blogger.com (becomingmagnum) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 01:05:00 +0000

I've just finished my daily ritual of listening to Level 2 of Holosync Technologies - The Dive, immediately followed by an mp3 of "Healing Yourself" and "Creating An Abundance Of Money" by John Kehoe.

I've spent the past 3 months listening to Holosync's 1st Level, and I've just recently gotten the 2nd Level. I am really enjoying listening to - The Dive, and using it for both meditation and visualization of my goals.

I find that it really helps to calm my mind, and put me into a flow state for visualizing. I've been using it as a precursor for listening to John Kehoe's MIND POWER Audio's.

I highly recommend checking them out. I will be tracking my results on my Blog in regards to the results that I get from both Holosync and the MIND POWER Audio's so you can figure out if it is something of interest for you over the long term (and if they actually create the desired results.)

All the Best,

Mike.

No Excuses Workout - Sunday Sept.27, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (becomingmagnum) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 19:58:00 +0000

I have decided to label my workouts, "No Excuses Workouts" for 2 reasons.

1) In June I bought the book "Unstoppable" by Cynthia Kersey. The book is a compilation of success stories of various people who have all gone on to accomplish massive things in their lives.

I am inspired by the particular story of Richard and Dick Hoyt, a father and son who have gone on to accomplish amazing things despite their percieved setback.

2) Because of my current physical situation. In November of 2008 during an Acting Class, I ended up dropping to the ground during a scene in which I was "beating up" my scene partner. I ended up hitting my left knee onto concrete for both takes. As a result, according to the MRI that I had done, I tore the meniscus in my knee. Then in May of 2009, I fell and ended up twisting my left knee and things inside got messed up even more. I haven't had another MRI done yet, but it feels like the tendons and/or ligaments are twisted up inside.

Yesterday, on Sunday Sept. 27, 2009 I went to the Swimming Pool (50m) and did some laps. As it turns out, it was much easier on my knee's then I had thought it would be. (I tore the meniscus in my right knee back in 2004, and my doctor preferred not to operate on me, and as a result, my right knee has never fully recovered.)

I managed to swim 2 full lengths (From the starting point - to the other end - and back again) or 200m. I wasn't able to complete an entire 1/2 length (I only managed to swim about 75% of the way before needing to take a break and catch my breath), but I did it.

I forgot how much I love swimming, and it's a fun way to exercise. I look forward to swimming more often, and using it as a starting point for getting in shape, and beginning my transformation on my journey to becoming the next Magnum, P.I.

The Rollercoaster Ride Continues...

noreply@blogger.com (becomingmagnum) — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 01:27:00 +0000

I have just recently signed up for a FREE TRIAL with Typepad for a Blog. The reason for doing this is because I would like to be able to seamlessly sync up my Blog with Twitter, and Facebook so that I don't have to re-post anywhere else.

Also because Typepad claims that I can easily add Video's onto my Blog, and build Web Pages/Website around my Blog which is what I'm currently looking at doing since money has been very tight, and I don't have any extra money at the moment to get my Website: www.becomingmagnum.tv revamped.

I plan on blogging on a daily basis to update what I'm doing as I begin production on my "Real Time" Reality Documentary, "BECOMING MAGNUM."

Here are some updates over the past year.

1) I got Ken Craw (Producer/Writer) and Michael Hamilton (Director) to come on board and help me produce "Becoming Magnum."

2) Within 2 weeks of them coming on board, they got me a Development Deal with CTV.

3) It took 9 months for us to get the Development Funding.

4) We shot 2 Days of Footage with CTV's money.

5) Because of the Recession, CTV decided to no longer do "1 Off Documentary's" and so they pulled out.

6) This now means that I own 100% of the Footage that CTV paid for.

7) In June of 2009 I met Darren Jacklin (The Mega Manifestor) and he introduced me to Gary Goldstein (Producer of PRETTY WOMAN.)

8) In August of 2009 - both Ken Craw and Michael Hamilton pulled out - because they are experienced in creating content for TV, and I've decided to broadcast "Becoming Magnum" Online.

9) I am currently learning what I can about Online/Internet Marketing via Frank Kern, as well as I just signed up for an Account with AWeber to help me start building up a Database.

10) I forgot to mention that I injured my Left Knee during an Acting Class at the Actor's Foundry in November of 2008, and again in May of 2009.

11) My current status: Weight: Approx. 402 lbs. Injured Left Knee. Money: Currently earning under $2K/Month. No money to revamp Website at the moment. No Money for Production at the moment.

12) I am going to be blogging daily, updating activitiy and meals on Twitter, and creating Video Blogs with my Sony DVD Camcorder and then uploading them onto either YouTube or my Blog and/or Website down the road.

13) I am working on getting Gary Goldstein to Mentor me through his "Hollywood Insider" Mentoring Program to get in touch with both Tom Selleck and Brian Grazer in my attempt to get myself cast as "Thomas Magnum," in the upcoming "Magnum, P.I." Movie.

That's it for now,

Mike.

Updates...The Power of Serendipitiy and/or the Law of Attraction

noreply@blogger.com (becomingmagnum) — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 23:44:00 +0000

Well, a few weeks ago, I met up with an Independent Producer friend Coreena, and showed her my Trailer, and talked to her about BECOMING MAGNUM. She suggested I talk with her friend KEN about it, and forward my Pitch Package to him, and he would know where to go from there.

I forwarded COREENA my Package, and she forwarded it to KEN.

2 Weeks later I was ON SET of a TV Series Pilot Trailer, which will be used to help sell their TV Series much like I'm using my Trailer to sell/pitch BECOMING MAGNUM.

I ended up talking with the Producers/Creators KEN and MICHAEL. During the 1st Frame of my Trailer, KEN says to me, "This isn't Becoming Magnum is it?"

Turns out he is the Ken that Coreena had sent the package to, but because he was busy prepping for his Trailer Shoot, he hadn't had a chance to really look at it.

Then on the second day of shooting, he let me borrow his D.O.P. and HD Camera so I could get a shot of me as THOMAS MAGNUM turning around wearing the Red Hawaiian Shirt, looking at the camera, smiling, and doing the double eyebrow raise.

Later that same day I met a guy warming up his Red Ferrari. I showed him my Trailer and he agreed to let me use his Ferrari for a shot of me in the car, and then driving off, to recreate more of the footage from the opening sequence of MAGNUM P.I.

Then on Sunday, just a few days ago, I was ON SET of a Short Film playing CASINO SECURITY and making someone leave. Naturally I showed people my Trailer, and got great feedback. I asked the Producer if he'd be willing to let me use the footage of me as Casino Security for my Trailer, in which I will cut in the first few minutes from LAS VEGAS' Halloween Episode with Roger E. Mosley and Larry Mannetti (Rick & TC ) with Tom Selleck upstairs overlooking the Casino floor, and then CUT ME IN as Casino Security removing these 2 guys.

Turns out, one of the Producer's (ANDREW's) friends is dating Molly Sims (from the TV Series LAS VEGAS.)

Andrew has agreed to help me out as much as he can!

And I am currently in the beginning stages of planning a CHARITY FUNDRAISER EVENT for Children with Lupus and Celebs for Kids for the middle of June in which we will be Raffling off a 1991 Ferrari 348 GTS and a Hawaiian Vacation and hopefully several more goodies to raise money for the Charity.

I will do my best to keep you informed and up to date.

Mike.

Very Sad News...

noreply@blogger.com (becomingmagnum) — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 20:46:00 +0000

I just found out from a friend of mine who told me...

TV's Las Vegas Cancelled (http://www.thecelebritytruth.com/)

Television's 'Las Vegas' has become a victim of the writers strike, with its executive producer and creator, Gary Scott Thompson, announcing that the show will be cancelled because it would cost too much to re-start production.

Las Vegas was based in the fictional Montecito Casino in the Nevada glitter strip, and featured one of the biggest sets ever built for a tv show. It starred James Caan and singer Fergie's main squeeze, Josh Duhamel, with Tom Selleck added to the cast last year as the new owner of the casino.

Thompson told TVguide.com on Tuesday (February 26) that the decision was based on the cost of re-starting production of the show, and the future of the show was even up in the air prior to the start of the strike in early November.

The last episode of the season ended on a cliffhanger and is not expected to be concluded according to reports.

Posted on 27 February 2008
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Post your comment

Comments
· I am so tired of television executives cancelling good shows! Las Vegas is the only GOOD show on tv on Fridays...SUCKS!
Posted by Kim, 05/03/2008 11:18am (4 hours ago)

· I have been a fan for 3 years, very sad to see it come to an end this way. It was really a very smart fit for the show having Tom Seleck join the Staff. It was really great seeing Tom on tv every week. Love to see the show come back!
Posted by Bob, 02/03/2008 10:33pm (3 days ago)

· My fiance and I love watching this show. Nothing else on NBC is worth watching. Please bring it back!!!! We don't need another reality show. You guys really suck for leaving your faithfull viewers hanging.
Posted by Pissed off watcher, 29/02/2008 11:28pm (5 days ago)

· I started watching this show this season....and it was so funny. I cannot believe it isn't returning. The least they could do is end the show for us...not leave it hanging like they did. This really SUCKS!
Posted by Robin, 27/02/2008 10:27am (7 days ago)

POST your comments

- This really is disappointing for me, and for BECOMING MAGNUM, not only because I enjoyed watching the Series, but I was also hoping to be able to PITCH myself to the Producers of LAS VEGAS to get myself into an Epiosde as the son of AJ COOPER (Tom Selleck's Character.)

Because they brought LARRY MANETTI & ROGER E. MOSLEY (Rick & TC from Magnum P.I.) into the Series, I was going to pitch myself as SULLIVAN COOPER, in which I would pull up in front of the MONTECITO CASINO in a newer Ferrari 355 GTS, get out wearing a Hawaiian Print Shirt, and a Detroit Tigers Baseball Cap. . .

But apparently that is not going to even get a chance of happening, and I think it would have been really cool for Magnum P.I. Fans, as well as Tom Selleck Fans, in addition to helping to sell myself to Executive Producer Brian Grazer (Imagine Entertainment) who is Executive Producing the MAGNUM P.I. MOVIE.

Well, maybe I will still have to contact the Gary Scott Thompson, the Executive Producer of LAS VEGAS anyway, and see if I can get my hands on a copy of the Script that would have at least added some closure to the Series instead of leaving it as a Cliff Hanger, and shooting the Episode for the Internet somehow, and then I can still get myself in there, as we shoot an Exterior shot of a real CASINO in Las Vegas...or this could just be me grasping for straws.

Mike Bennett

The Continuing Saga of BECOMING MAGNUM

noreply@blogger.com (becomingmagnum) — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 02:15:00 +0000

MAGNUM P.I. MOVIE

You can also go to www.becomingmagnum.com and register to follow my Journey of BECOMING MAGNUM and getting myself cast in the MAGNUM P.I. MOVIE.

This Blog is intended to do the following:

Keep you informed on the status of the MAGNUM P.I. MOVIE, as well as news/information about TOM SELLECK. In additon, I will be adding information about the continuing saga of developing BECOMING MAGNUM, and getting it financed, and then once in production:

I will be providing updates about the process of Digital Filmmaking, the development of the Web Series, my transformation using ISAGENIX Cleansing Products (www.becomingmagnum.isagenix.com) for my weight loss, as well as highlights from the overall journey. Between November 22, 2007 and March 4, 2008 I have lost 63 lbs effortlessly. My original starting weight was 440 lbs, and today I currently weigh 377 lbs. IF you know of anyone who has been struggling with their weight, I highly recommend you send them to www.becomingmagnum.isagenix.com and have them look at the 30 DAY CLEANSE Products.

SO HERE WE GO...

Magnum Uncaged?
Oscar winner reportedly up for TV-to-film project.
by Stax

September 4, 2007 - Oscar winner Nicolas Cage is rumored to be up for the title role in the long-gestating feature film adaptation of the 1980s TV series Magnum P.I., to be directed by Rawson Marshall Thurber. Reports have circulated everywhere from Star Magazine and The Daily Express to MonstersAndCritics.com that Cage is considering playing Thomas Magnum, a role originated by Tom Selleck on TV, in the Universal movie. According to The Daily Express, "Nicolas likes the mix of comedy and crime-solving in the script." The paper also claims that the project fell apart 18 months ago when Ricky Gervais rejected the notion of playing Higgins to George Clooney's Magnum. The story goes that, should Cage sign on, casting will then commence for the role of Higgins, Magnum's Brit sidekick. The film would reportedly be due out in 2009. Could this be yet another pre-strike movie being rushed into production? We'll see.

McConaughey as Magnum? An interesting casting possibility.
by Paul Davidson

January 17, 2007 - Blonde-haired Matthew McConaughey with a moustache, fit out with shorts and a Hawaiian tee, driving a Ferrari down a palm tree-lined avenue. Is that a close enough approximation of Magnum P.I. for you? It might have to do. It's been a while since we heard what was happening with the feature film remake of Magnum P.I., but according to the UK's Teletext, writer-director Rawson Marshall Thurber (Dodgeball) has finished his latest draft for the film and named McConaughey as his choice to play the suave Hawaiian detective. The same report pegs Steve Zahn (Sahara) as Rick, Tyrese Gibson (2 Fast 2 Furious) as TC the chopper pilot, and William H. Macy as Higgins (ER), British war veteran and caretaker of the estate where Magnum lodges. Actually, Macy as Higgins sounds pretty cool, provided he can act British. And as for McConaughey, well, he might do if he can shake that Southern accent and assume a slightly more serious demeanor. So is this for real? Hard to say until the studio makes an official statement. It's interesting to note, though, that three of the four key cast members — McConaughey, Zahn, and Macy — all appeared together in the Clive Cussler novel-based Sahara. Did Thurber see some kind of chemistry there he liked? Stay tuned for updates.

Update on Magnum P.I. Series producer speaks.
by Paul Davidson

June 13, 2006 - The Magnum P.I. motion picture is one project that's been stuck in development hell for years. Is it ever going to get made? UGO.com posed that question to Charles Floyd Johnson, one of the producers of the original Magnum television series. Johnson is optimistic about the film and thinks it'll come to pass eventually. The current hold-up for Magnum, however, is the script. Also of interest is the fact that Tom Selleck, the star of the 1980s TV series, spoiled his opportunity to make several Magnum P.I. TV movies in place of a theatrical release. "I know for a fact that there was a script that Imagine developed that they didn't really feel captured the essence of the series, so they're on to a second writer now. Don Bellisario and Glen Larson have both been contacted about being consultants and executive producers, but I think it's going to be a Brian Grazer movie. I think it will happen, but I don't know," Johnson said. "I have heard, as you probably have, various ideas about who they would cast as Magnum. George Clooney I keep hearing and Ben Affleck I've heard once as well, but Clooney has denied it on occasion. I think there's a reality to it and I think it will be wonderful, but unfortunately it won't star Tom. He was asked to do six or eight TV movies and at that time he really wanted to do it as a feature, so he held out on it and probably now they will consider him too old to do it."

Magnum Movie Without Selleck Is Clooney still in the running?
by Paul Davidson

May 1, 2006 - Tom Selleck, who starred as the original Thomas Magnum in the hit 1980's television series, has confirmed he will not be joining the cast of the upcoming Magnum, P.I. motion picture. Selleck's name has long been included in discussions about the project, but reprising the role that made him famous has always seemed unlikely, given Selleck's age (61) and limited marketability for big-budget movies.

"I won't be in [Magnum P.I.], and I won't be doing some stupid cameo," he told the press caustically, as he laid to rest long-lived speculation of his involvement. George Clooney, a star every bit as suave as Magnum's persona, has also been persistently rumored to be a candidate for the character. Moviehole added credence to that possibility last month, saying the former surgeon from ER was still the studio's favorite for the part. However, according to the same site, Vince Vaughn (The Lost World, Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story) is also a frontrunner.

The Stax Report on Magnum, P.I. Stax casts the big-screen version of the TV series!
by Stax

January 24, 2006 - Stax here with my take on the big-screen adaptation of the 1980s TV series Magnum P.I.! The trades are reporting that Universal Pictures has tapped Dodgeball helmer Rawson Marshall Thurber to write and direct the feature version. The Hollywood Reporter said Thurber "is not making a spoof but rather something akin to the tone of the show, which mixed humor and danger. The story line for the film sees Magnum, with the help of his former military pals, searching for a missing buddy." Although the trade says Magnum won't be a spoof, it's tough not to suspect that the pic will veer more towards comedy since Thurber made Dodgeball and the last screenwriter Universal hired for Magnum was Austin Powers' Michael McCullers. So for the purposes of this casting column, I will offer up suggestions for both a straightforward Magnum P.I. movie and a send-up.

Thomas Magnum: For the more serious Magnum, I think the oft-mentioned George Clooney would be an ideal choice to assume the role first played by Tom Selleck. The rumor mill suggests that Clooney has always wanted to play Magnum; Hugh Jackman might not be bad for it, either. For a Magnum spoof, I could see Dodgeball's Vince Vaughn sporting a false mustache and decked out in Hawaiian shirt and short shorts.

Jonathan Higgins III: I was spitballing my casting ideas with an industry friend of mine and we both thought the idea of casting Sir Ian McKellen as Higgins, whether the film is a flat-out comedy or not, was too great to pass up. The image of McKellen surrounded by a bunch of alpha males, well, the scenes just write themselves.

Theodore 'TC' Calvin: If Magnum is played for laughs then Bernie Mac would be perfect to portray Magnum's chopper pilot pal TC. If not then how about Don Cheadle? It'd be even better if his Ocean's co-star George Clooney was playing Magnum.

Orville 'Rick' Wright: Ben Stiller is the new Larry Manetti. Can't you just see him, Vaughn, Bernie Mac and McKellen on the poster? A more reasonable choice, though, might be Paul Rudd. He could work in the role whether it's played as a comedy or a drama. While Rudd has played the buddy in such comedies as Anchorman and The 40 Year-Old Virgin, he's also earned his dramatic chops in such films as The Cider House Rules and Romeo + Juliet.

Magnum P.I. Still Alive Long gestating project gets a writer-director.
by Paul Davidson

January 24, 2006 - It seemed for a while that nothing was happening with the Magnum P.I. movie, but at last some activity is evident. According to The Hollywood Reporter, 30-year-old Rawson Marshall Thurber is Universal's pick to both write and direct the adaptation of CBS's popular detective show. Thurber also wrote and directed the recent comedy Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story. The news suggests that Universal Pictures was unhappy with the direction their existing script took the film, and wanted time to reconsider.

IGN FilmForce readers may recall that another screenplay for Magnum P.I. was already finished back in 2004. George Clooney has been suggested in the past as a candidate for the part of Thomas Magnum, war veteran and independent gumshoe. There's no telling whether he's still keen on the part, but Tom Selleck, who was made famous by his role in the original '80s series, is almost certainly too old by now. With Thurber starting on a new script, Magnum's return could still be a ways off. Hopefully, the coming months will bring more news on the project.

Script Finalized on Magnum P.I. Movie Clooney probably won't be Magnum.
by Paul Davidson

July 15, 2004 - Fans of '80s detective dramas will be interested to know that progress continues on the Magnum P.I. feature film. In fact, Filmrot.com did some of their own investigating, and learned that a script for the movie is now complete. Universal is looking for cast and a director at this very moment. The big question right now is: who's going to play the suave, mustachioed sleuth? A recent poll taken by USA Today says that Tom Selleck, Mr. Thomas Magnum himself, is still the most popular candidate for the role; Universal has indicated, however, that they are not considering the actor, who is now a good deal older than when the TV show ran. It seems Selleck would like another shot, but he probably won't get it. George Clooney is also not a likely choice at this time, despite the rumors surrounding his name. Universal is not commenting on Clooney's potential involvement yet. Rapper L.L. Cool J (Deep Blue Sea) is also reportedly up for the part of T.C. Calvin.

Is Magnum P.I. Cool? Rapper-actor linked with supporting role.
by Stax

March 17, 2004 - Greg's Previews at Yahoo! Movies is reporting that rapper-actor L.L. Cool J (S.W.A.T.) is up for the supporting role of Thomas "T.C." Calvin in the big-screen remake of Magnum P.I.. Universal Studios and Imagine Entertainment are making the feature version of the 1980s TV series. George Clooney may play the title role made famous by Tom Selleck. Greg's Previews claims that "LL has met recently about playing T.C., was received positively by Bryan Grazer and is the top choice for the role. The identities of the actors who might play Rick and Higgins are not yet known." L.L. Cool J's other film credits include Any Given Sunday and Deep Blue Sea.

From Batman to Magnum P.I.? The rumored big-screen replacement for Tom Selleck.
by Stax

November 21, 2003 - According to The Internet Movie Database (via WENN), George Clooney wants to star as the big-screen Magnum P.I. Universal and Imagine Entertainment are developing the feature film version of the hit TV series that ran on CBS from 1980-88 and starred Tom Selleck as mustachioed Vietnam vet-turned-Hawaii private dick Thomas Sullivan Magnum.

Screenwriter Michael McCullers (the Austin Powers sequels and the forthcoming Thunderbirds) is scripting the film version.

The IMDb, citing "pals" of Clooney's, claims that the Magnum role is one that the former Batman has long (and secretly) "coveted." "He's wanted to play three characters since he started acting – Danny Ocean in Ocean's Eleven, Hannibal in The A-Team and Magnum," says the source. "He's had The A-Team movie in the works for a while now, so he's been chasing this one really hard."

The site says that Magnum P.I. hopes to lens next year and "will feature the brand new $800,000 Ferrari Enzo sports car in place of Magnum's classic Ferrari 308 Gts." The IMDb adds that "the identities of who will play Magnum's side-kicks Theodore 'TC' Calvin, Orville 'Rick' Wright and Jonathan Quayle Higgins III – played by Roger E Mosley, Larry Manetti and John Hillerman in the TV original – are being kept top secret."

Magnum Movie The '80s series comes to the big screen.
by Brian Linder

September 24, 2003 - According to today's Variety, Universal Pictures has picked up the movie rights to the classic detective series Magnum, P.I. The trade tips that Imagine Entertainment chairman Brian Grazer will co-produce a film based on the CBS series which aired from 1980-1988. Grazer will produce with Donald Bellisario, the co-creator of the series. There's no word on the tone of the film, but don't be surprised if it's heavy on comedy. Screenwriter Michael McCullers (Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me, Austin Powers in Goldmember) has reportedly been hired to pen the script. McCullers also wrote the screenplay for the forthcoming Thunderbirds feature film and he has penned the script for Universal and Imagine's Curious George movie. The original series starred Tom Selleck as Thomas Magnum, a former Navy officer who is hired by the mysterious Robin Masters to serve as head of security for his Hawaiian estate. Magnum, who worked on the side as a private investigator, had frequent run-ins with the estate's caretaker Jonathan Higgins.

AND HERE'S WHAT FANS OF MAGNUM P.I./TOM SELLECK have to say about TOM SELLECK not being cast in the MAGNUM P.I. MOVIE...

IGNFF Mailbag:

5/04/06 Transformers, Superman and Magnum P.I.

In today's edition of IGN FilmForce mailbag, we have readers' feedback on the casting of the human roles in The Transformers movie, thoughts on Lois Lane in Superman Returns, as well as a reaction to the recent news that Tom Selleck will not be starring in the big-screen version of Magnum P.I.. As always, keep those letters coming!

Magnum P.I.
I don't know if anyone is thinking where you are, but you're all absolute morons if you don't use the original cast. Anything else is an utter farce, and won't bring you a dime. The Starsky and Hutch remake was terrible. Why won't Hollywood ever give the fans what we want, and that is the original cast back? We've all grown older, it makes such sense to show how they have, too.
--Marie/Magwriter

While we may all be "absolute morons" here, it must be pointed out that we're not the filmmakers. Thus, blaming us for not bringing back Tom Selleck is pointless. That said, the studio probably believes Selleck lacks box office appeal and they want someone starring the new movie who has it. Just a thought.
--Stax

IGNFF Mailbag:

1/27/06 Your thoughts on the Magnum movie.

Hello and welcome to another edition of the IGN FilmForce Mailbag. Today readers respond to this week's news that the Magnum P.I. feature is indeed alive and kicking!

Magnum P.I.
I agree with your choices in casting of the Magnum movie, if it's more toward a serious angle, why not Tom Selleck I say. Otherwise if not him, Magnum I think is good for George Clooney, Mel Gibson too. As for TC Ving Rhames if it's serious, or LL Cool J might work. Higgins is a tough one for me, I initially thought John Cleese. But I think Anthony Hopkins would be good too. Rick's casting, I liked your idea of Paul Rudd, he seems to be a good fit. Well just some thoughts from a fan. --Patrick

It has to be Selleck!
--Peter

True Magnum PI fans want to see the original cast! Magnum PI was all about the relationship of the characters and fans want to see what has happened to them in the last 18-20 years. Make a movie for we Baby Boomers instead of 14 year old boys! The only complete remake of a television show that ever worked was The Fugitive.
--Paul

Magnum P.I.
To tell you the truth, I'd like to have the original cast back! Tom Selleck has always said that he has wondered what ever happened to Magnum. A story with an older Magnum in current times would be awesome! We'd get to see what he has been up to all these years. However, if they want to start the franchise over again, then new cast members makes the most sense. I'd like for the original cast to make a television movie at least before the movie came out. Whoever plays Magnum has some pretty big shoes to fill. Selleck was perfect for the role. I'd go as far to say that whoever plays Magnum will have a harder time filling those shoes than Brandon Routh does for Christopher Reeve.
--Ryan

Hellz ya!!
Hi. I would love to see the original cast of the television series Magnum P.I. (Tom Selleck, Larry Manetti, Roger Mosley, and John Hillerman) star in the upcoming Magnum P.I. movie. Tom Selleck, especially. He IS Magnum P.I, and it just wouldn't be the same (or nearly as good) to have anyone else play that role. Thanks for your time.
--Joanna

Magnum's a tough call so i'll get to that later.
Higgins, i'd say Paul Giamatti because of the build but maybe Phillip Seymour Hoffman because he's got the chops to do just about anything. I must say, Ian Mackellen would be funny. Bernie Mac would be the obvious choice for T.C. if they went comedy styles but they could go overboard and choose Chris Rock which would be a shame although not as bad as Cedric the Entertainer. Rick, Stiller and Rudd are true champs but Stiller was already Starsky or Hutch, I can't remember. so, i'd go with Rudd but throw in Thomas Jane as a consideration. Now Magnum, Jackman's got the look but he doesn't have the charisma. Ben Affleck might be a good call or even Jason Lee would be great. anyway, those are my two cents.
--Paul

Please make it more like the old show, no spoof!!!
--Michael I want to see Hugh Jackman my current favorite as Magnum, one of my all time favorites!!!
--Aellison Tuesday

Conversation with TOM SELLECK'S Agent

noreply@blogger.com (becomingmagnum) — Thu, 11 Jan 2007 02:38:00 +0000

Just before Christmas I FEDEX'd a Package to TOM SELLECK'S Agent. It included a Letter asking for his Endorsement in my Project, and a copy of my BIO, as well as 2 Picture's of myself, and a "STOP BEN AFFLECK FROM BECOMING MAGNUM" T-Shirt.

She said that he received the Shirt and the Package before Christmas, and that he found it amusing. He got a good laugh at it, and that he wanted to thank me for my support. In regards to my Project, "BECOMING MAGNUM," he said, "Brian Grazer will do whatever Brian Grazer wants."

So now I know that I'm going to have to prove myself to TOM and BRIAN GRAZER. Creating this Project is getting more and more challenging, but I Believe that I'm going to pull it off. How? I don't know yet. But I'll figure out a way.

Once my Publicist gets back from Holidays, we'll just have to see if we can drum up some attention for the Project through the Media, and start creating some Buzz and attention, and then use that to Capture Brian Grazer's attention, and get Mr. SELLECK and MYSELF involved in the upcoming "Magnum P.I." Movie.

After all, it is not too late, until "Magnum P.I." the Movie goes into Production. Until then, I/We still have a chance.

Mike

BECOMING MAGNUM'S Rollercoaster Week.

noreply@blogger.com (becomingmagnum) — Sun, 24 Dec 2006 04:25:00 +0000

Over the past few weeks the Project has gone through its share of ups and downs, highs and lows. I approached a Fitness/Personal Training Company about coming on board. They offered to Donate over $11,000.00 worth of their Products and Services to the Project, and claiming that with their expertise, they could help me lose 160 lbs in 90 Days.

Naturally, I was excited about both the Donation, and the estimated Target Weight Loss in 90 Days.

But over the past few weeks I began to question my Producer's level of commitment to the Project, and last week we had a meeting to discuss the Contract between us, the Producer and I, and the Fitness Company. The talks ended on a sour note, so I decided to step in and try to be the mediator between the Producer and the owner of the Fitness Company. I wrote up a letter pertaining to the issues of both parties, as I saw it.

On Monday of this week, I received an email from the Producer saying that she was no longer interested in working on the Project. I'm not sure what it is that she took offense to as she does not answer my phone calls or return them, or even send a reply email explaining her reasons.

So I was left holding the bag. I had to come up with an Agreement between myself and the Fitness Company that was agreeable for both them, and myself. In the end, they wanted way too much for what they were offering, and I wasn't able to put a deal together in time, and so they've decided to walk away as well.

I did however, through the Law of Attraction, manage to run into an Acquaintance that I made earlier in the Summer, and shared the Project with him, and I even showed him the Teaser Trailer on my portable DVD Player that I happened to have on me.

He enthusiastically agreed to come on board, and he made a call to his Business Partner, who said he'd like to meet up with me after the Christmas and New Year's Holidays, to discuss the Project. The new Producer mentioned that his partner might be willing to invest $50,000 into the Project.

I believe that this is all going to come together in time. My intention is to create 13 Episodes, and to Broadcast them over the Internet, instead of using a Traditional Broadcaster, so stay tuned, and together we'll see what unfolds.

Mike "SULLIVAN MAGNUM" Bennett

PS. I should probably mention that last week I decided to FEDEX a Package to Mr. Selleck's Agent. Included were a STOP BEN AFFLECK FROM BECOMING MAGNUM T-Shirt, 2 Photo's of myself, a Letter asking for Mr. Selleck's Endorsement in the Project, a copy of my BIO, and the ONE PAGER about the Project.

Ideally, I would have loved to have shot footage of this, but my Producer and her Camera were no where to be found.

mb

MAGNUM P.I. MOVIE in Pre-Production

noreply@blogger.com (becomingmagnum) — Sat, 28 Oct 2006 19:10:00 +0000

My computer has crashed 4 times this year. . .very annoying and frustrating. It has really set me back.

So, I've finally gotten my computer back, and it's working. Yeah!

I've been busy working with my Producer, Brunella, who keeps giving me more work to do every time I meet her.

Currently we are working on finishing off the PITCH PACKAGE which we will use to Pitch the Project to Executive Producers, Directors, Investors, Financers, etc.

I also found out that I've got to do as much as I can on this EVERY SINGLE DAY because the Official Countdown Timer has begun.

My contacts have informed me that MAGNUM P.I. THE MOVIE is in Pre-Production, and they have begun Screen Testing actors for the Magnum P.I. Movie. They haven't selected anyone, yet. And they are in talks with Tom Selleck to play a small (Cameo?) role.

So now is the time for my BIG PUSH. I've got to get my Project picked up, and made, so that I can get any contenders out of the way so we can have TOM SELLECK play THOMAS MAGNUM, and get me in there as his illegitimate son, SULLIVAN MAGNUM.

Mike.

We've got a Producer!

noreply@blogger.com (becomingmagnum) — Tue, 08 Aug 2006 23:58:00 +0000

On Thursday July 27, 2006 I met with Producer Brunella Battista at her "db Digital TV" office, and discussed the "Becoming Magnum" Project with her. She loved the concept, and she agreed to come on board. She has imposed some deadlines for things to be done. We have to get the Business Plan completed by August 15th.

Brunella is working on the Budget, and I'm working on putting together Sponsorship Packages, so we can hopefully attract Sponsorship from Personal Trainers, Acting Coaches, Fitness Equipment (Mountain Bike, Rollerblades, etc.)

I've also been working on finalizing the ONE SHEET, which will be submitted to Executive Producers, which sums up the Project in a single page. And I'm working on finishing my Bio.

Niti Maini, my Publicist is helping me put the final touches on the Sponsorship Packages, and she is also taking my Bio, and writing an Editiorial which we will use to send to Local Papers and TV and Radio Stations to book Interviews to get the word about "Becoming Magnum" out there, so we can start attracting more local attention.

Mike.

View the BECOMING MAGNUM TRAILER

noreply@blogger.com (becomingmagnum) — Fri, 21 Jul 2006 04:48:00 +0000

Go to www.myspace.com/becomingmagnum and VIEW THE TRAILER.

Once you've VIEWED THE TRAILER, please email 3-5 of your closest friends, send them the link, and get them to VIEW THE TRAILER. Then get them to send the LINK to 3-5 of their friends, and so on, and so on, until we get 1 MILLION people to VIEW THE TRAILER in 30 DAYS.

I'm hoping that will get HOLLYWOOD'S and TOM SELLECK'S attention.

Mike.

BECOMING MAGNUM TRAILER

noreply@blogger.com (becomingmagnum) — Fri, 21 Jul 2006 04:45:00 +0000

Go to www.myspace.com/becomingmagnum. You should be able to VIEW THE TRAILER.

I NEED YOUR HELP. My Goal: To get 1 Million people to VIEW THE TRAILER in 30 Days, and hopefully by doing so I'll be able to get Hollywood's and Tom Selleck's attention.

Mike.

Becoming Magnum/STOP BEN AFFLECK T-SHIRTS

noreply@blogger.com (becomingmagnum) — Wed, 19 Jul 2006 04:27:00 +0000

I've gotten some T-SHIRTS made up for the STOP BEN AFFLECK FROM BECOMING MAGNUM Campaign. Here's what they look like.

If you want to SUPPORT MY CAMPAIGN, you can Purchase a T-SHIRT for $30 US.

Mike.

More Comparison Photos. . .

noreply@blogger.com (becomingmagnum) — Thu, 13 Jul 2006 17:12:00 +0000

Here are some more Comparison Photo's of myself and TOM SELLECK.

Meeting with a Producer. . .

noreply@blogger.com (becomingmagnum) — Thu, 13 Jul 2006 17:03:00 +0000

On Friday, July 14, 2006 I have a Meeting with a Producer to discuss my BECOMING MAGNUM Project. Of course, I'm going to be bringing the New Trailer with me.

I'm curious to see what this Producer has to say about my Pitching myself to TOM SELLECK for the upcoming MAGNUM P.I. MOVIE.

As it has been reported, TOM SELLECK is out, and BEN AFFLECK is being considered for the role of THOMAS MAGNUM. But where there's a will there's a way. . .hopefully.

I'm going to see what she thinks about me Mailing off a Copy of the BECOMING MAGNUM DVD TRAILER to TOM SELLECK'S AGENT, and his PRODUCER PARTNER, MICHAEL BRANDMAN over at BRANDMAN PRODUCTIONS.

In regards to the FERRARI SHOT for the TRAILER. . .unfortunately I'm not going to be able to use the 2000 Ferrari 360 Spider like I wanted to. . .yet. I am able to get a shot of me in the Ferrari, however, it is the wrong color, so I'm going to have to wait about a month to get the right one. Here's a picture of the FERRARI that I intend to use in the BECOMING MAGNUM TRAILER. Enjoy!

Mike.

BECOMING MAGNUM TRAILER is 90% Complete

noreply@blogger.com (becomingmagnum) — Tue, 11 Jul 2006 18:20:00 +0000

I finished the Final Stages of my New Trailer. Once I finished cutting it together, I realized that I should probably move some pictures from the front into the middle. Then, after I get a shot of me in the 2000 Ferrari 360 Spider, I'm going to pull out a shot of me at the end, and replace it with the shot of me in the Ferrari.

Next, I have to work on putting together a One Sheet, and a Small Business Plan so I can try and get SPONSORSHIP and/or FUNDING for the BECOMING MAGNUM Project. That's what I'm going to be doing for the rest of the week.

This morning, I'm going to go to KINKO'S/FEDEX to see if they can Print up some DVD Labels for me using the STOP BEN AFFLECK FROM BECOMING MAGNUM Design I came up with. Then I'm off to pick up the first STOP BEN AFFLECK FROM BECOMING MAGNUM T-Shirt.

After that, it's off to see DARRIN MAHARAJ before he leaves for Toronto tomorrow, so I can show him the TRAILER, and give him a copy to take with him.

I'm excited to see if and how he'll be willing to help me out.

Mike
a.k.a. SULLIVAN MAGNUM