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10.08.11
"The Truth", Co-Written by Craig J. Harris and Directed by Hill Harper, premieres at Chicago Int'l Film Festival
Chicago, October 8th, 2011 -- The Truth, a short film Co-Written by Craig J. Harris and Randy Crumpton, which serves as actor Hill Harper’s Directorial Debut, premieres at the 2011 Chicago International Film Festival.
The film centers around a man who suspects his wife is cheating and while trying to uncover the truth receives news that devastates their marriage and forever changes their lives, while imparting an important life lesson.
Produced by Crumpton’s Brave Faces Production, featuring the talents of Diandra Lyle, Terisa Griffin, Dwight Eubanks, Jensen Atwood, Rockmond Dunbar, Mel Jackson, and Eric Lane, and produced by Crumpton, Sharon King and James Ramos; the film debuts at the 47th Chicago International Film Festival, Oct 10, 14 and 16.
10.27.09
PRESENTING: "Out Of The Mouths Of Babes" Domestic Violence PSA
Chicago, October 27th, 2009 -- Endorsed by the Chicago Department of Public Health and the Chicago Office of Violence Prevention, "Out of the Mouths of Babes", is a thirty-second Domestic Violence Public Service Announcement, written and produced by Craig J. Harris that examines the effects of abusive physical and verbal adult male behavior and its impact on the thoughts and actions of boys who witness it.
"Out of the Mouths of Babes" attempts to address and connect with a male demographic, 18-54, responsible for perpetrating the majority of domestic abuse cases and is a call to action for these men to stop their physical and verbal abuse. The PSA engages men in confronting the choice to abuse while educating and seeks possibly to prevent domestic violence before it occurs.
“We’re asking everyone to please consider, cutting and pasting the PSA’s YouTube link onto their social networking site profiles, to raise awareness and stop the cycle of abuse”, says Harris. The PSA’s YouTube link is at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5hzh-gW-CO8
"Out of the Mouths of Babes" isnt just a vitally important social message, the production of the PSA was also a learning set, which employed at-risk and economically disadvantaged youth interested in careers in the visual media production industry. Collaborating with Free Spirit Media and Chicago Vocational Career Academy Radio & TV Department, Harris and co-producer, Sharon King, created paid positions in every facet of production for the student’s participation, while providing mentoring for the participants who worked alongside experienced industry professionals.
For any additional information regarding the PSA, including its creation and behind-the-scenes, click this link an overview document regarding the spot: http://www.craigharris.com/OOTMOB_craigharrisdotcom.pdf
06.06.09
Craig J. Harris gives stirring keynote speech to Kenosha Youth.
Chicago, June 6th, 2009 -- Click here for details of Craig's keynote address before the Kenosha COmbined School Systems' fifth annual Minority Academic Achievement Recognition ceremony.
09.29.08
See Craig in Eagle Eye, the #1 Movie at the Box Office
Click on photo for larger image.
LOS ANGELES, September 29th, 2008 --
The DreamWorks Thriller "Eagle Eye", starring Shia LaBeouf, soared to the top of North American box offices, taking in $29 million in its first weekend in theaters, according to studio estimates on Sunday and giving Craig J. Harris a career acting milestone of having a principal role in the number one movie in theaters.
The story revolves around Jerry Shaw (LaBeouf) and Rachel Holloman (Michelle Monaghan) as two strangers thrown together by a mysterious phone call from an unknown woman. Threatening their lives and family, she pushes Jerry and Rachel into a series of increasingly dangerous situation, using the technology of everyday life to track and control their every move. As the situation escalates, these two ordinary people become the country's most wanted fugitives, who must work together to discover what is really happening, but more importantly, why.
Craig appears as a well meaning, if misguided, hot tempered, citizen-turned-vigilante, who leads a mob in confronting Jerry Shaw prior to trying to subdue him on a train. The altercation culminates in an exciting stunt sequence.
Next up for Harris is the role of Rick Hesse in the new Platinum Dunes’ supernatural horror thriller, The Unborn, written and directed by David S. Goyer and starring Gary Oldman, Odette Yustman, Cam Gigandet, Meagan Good, Carla Gugino, Jane Alexander, Idris Elba, Rhys Coiro and James Remar.
Eagle Eye on IMDB
05.20.08
Harris among industry leaders at Gov. Blagojevich Film Tax Bill signing
Click on photo for larger image.
Chicago, May 27th, 2008 --
Building on his commitment to the continued growth and success of the Illinois film industry, Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich the Illinois Film Production Services Tax Credit Act May 27th, 2008 at the Italian Village Restaurant in Downtown Chicago.
Among the numerous entertainment industry professionals in attendance at the event were Chicagoans actor, writer, producer and director Harold Ramis; actor and writer Craig J. Harris. Also at the event was former “Sopranos” actor, Frank Vincent.
Harris, who also appears in DreamWorks’ Eagle Eye, which was also filmed in Chicago, commented, “I was fortunate to be among the invited industry professionals to attend this signing and I extend my gratitude and thanks to Governor Blagojevich, State Rep. Ken Dunkin, State Senator Ricky Hendon, SAG, the Illinois Production Alliance, Jack Lavin, Betsy Steinberg & the IFO, and of course, Chicago's favorite son, the great Harold Ramis.”
Harris adds, “Illinois Film tax incentive is unique because it is the only one currently that had a diversity component, which is vital in providing opportunities for everyone. Without the dedication and commitment of the Governor, elected officials, and entire Illinois entertainment industry, we wouldn’t be in a position to be competitive.”
05.20.08
Craig to appear in Platinum Dunes' Supernatural Thriller The Unborn
Click on photo for larger image.
LOS ANGELES, May 20th, 2008 --
Craig J. Harris has completed filming his major supporting role as paramedic Rick Hesse in the new Platinum Dunes’ supernatural horror thriller, The Unborn.
Written and Directed by David S. Goyer, The Unborn stars Gary Oldman, Odette Yustman, Cam Gigandet, Meagan Good, Carla Gugino, Jane Alexander, Idris Elba, Rhys Coiro and James Remar.
Harris, a self-admitted comic geek, was thrilled to work with Goyer. “[Goyer] not only wrote the Batman Begins, the entire Blade trilogy, and the story for The Dark Knight, but he also wrote one of my favorite comic book titles, Justice Society of America. I was in nerd heaven.” Harris also describes his experience with working with such a talented cast as “Incredible”. “Goyer is an extremely gifted director and storyteller, Gary Oldman is a brilliant thespian whom I learned a great deal. Idris, Odette, Cam and the rest of the cast were all wonderfully talented and professional. Everyone was so cool, grounded and approachable. This was the most enjoyable experiences I’ve had on a set.”
In what he calls, the hardest role he ever had to prepare for, Harris adds that his experiences training with the Chicago Fire Department Paramedics was incredibly demanding, but invaluable. “I already considered them Heroes, but I have even more respect and admiration for what Paramedics and Firefighters do after training and working along beside them. I owe an incredible amount of thanks to Deputy Chief Paramedic Kevin Sullivan, Paramedics Kevin Forney, William Schreiber, Tony, Dante, David and all of my adopted “Englewood Exterminators” Brothers who bravely perform their duties on Ambulance 14, Engine 54, and Truck 20.”
The Unborn is one of several upcoming productions that Harris will appear in the near future. Harris’ other notable film appearances include: A principal role in the new Dreamworks’ political thriller, Eagle Eye opposite Shia LeBeouf, scheduled for release September 26th, 2008; and a role as a vicious killer in Connie Stevens’ directorial debut Saving Grace starring Tatum O’Neal, Michael Biehn, Piper Laurie and Penelope Ann Miller. Saving Grace is scheduled for release in 2009.
Next up for Harris are numerous film and TV projects as a writer and producer, in addition to his role as an actor. Harris looks to continue his hot streak, which he attributes to his faith. “I am humbled and thankful that God continues to bless me in the entertainment industry. All of my success is due to the Almighty.”
11.25.07
Craig to appear in DreamWorks' Feature Eagle Eye
Click on photo for larger image.
LOS ANGELES, November 25th, 2007 -- After performing principal or featured supporting roles in several theatrical films this year, Craig J. Harris finishes off a successful 2007 with a role in the new Dreamworks’ political thriller, Eagle Eye opposite Shia LeBeouf, which has a scheduled release date of August 8th, 2008.
Eagle Eye, executive produced and based on a story idea by Steven Spielberg, also features the talents of Billy Bob Thornton, Michelle Monaghan and Rosario Dawson and is directed by DJ Caruso (Distrurbia, Two For the Money, Taking Lives).
“I was blown away by Shia’s intensity and preparation in our scene. He’s an extremely talented actor”, Harris commented, “and DJ Caruso has a directing style that I describe as ‘easy genius’ because he gets the best performances out of actors with a laid back approach. It was an honor and a pleasure working with both of them.”
A self described "Sports Junkie", Harris adds that in between takes, he, Shia and DJ would discuss baseball. “They’re both very knowledgeable about the game and we talked endlessly about players and possible off season trades.” Harris concludes jokingly, “DJ is a Mets fan, but I still forgive him!”
Among Harris’ other notable film appearances this year is as Jermaine in the holiday hit, Fred Claus, starring Vince Vaughn and an all star cast including Paul Giamatti, Kevin Spacey and Kathy Bates; and a part as a vicious, knife wielding killer in Connie Stevens’ upcoming directorial debut Saving Grace starring Tatum O’Neal, Michael Biehn, Piper Laurie and Penelope Ann Miller. Fred Claus is currently in theaters, while Saving Grace is scheduled for release in 2009.
With his hands involved in upcoming film and TV projects for 2008 as a writer and producer, in addition to his role as an actor, Harris looks to have a busy schedule for some time to come. “As the Lord’s Blessings continue for me in the entertainment industry, I’ll continue enjoying the ride”, says Harris.
08.07.07
Craig to appear in Warner Bros Holiday pic Fred Claus
Click on photo for larger image.
LOS ANGELES, August 7th, 2007 -- Craig J. Harris is scheduled to appear in the upcoming film “Fred Claus” as Jermaine, a big, surly, no-nonsense Salvation Army Santa.
The Warner Brothers film, directed by David Dobkin (Wedding Crashers, Shanghai Knights) currently planned for a November 9th 2007 release date, stars Vince Vaughn as Santa's loser brother who returns home to the North Pole and features an all star cast including Paul Giamatti, Kathy Bates, Kevin Spacey, Rachel Weisz, John Michael Higgins, Elizabeth Banks and Ludacris.
“It was a great experience working on the film”, said Harris, “Vince Vaughn is an immensely talented actor and David Dobkin is an incredibly gifted director. Dan Fogelman’s script is very funny and I think Fred Claus will be a huge hit.”
Click here to visit the official site: http://fredclaus.warnerbros.com/
11.17.06!
See Craig appearing in Let’s Go to Prison now in theaters!
LOS ANGELES, November 17th, 2006 -- Craig is currently appearing on the big screen in the Universal release, Let’s Go to Prison, starring Will Arnett, Dax Shepard, Chi McBride and directed by Bob Odenkirk.
Craig plays a humorously corrupt prison guard who handles all the betting action on prison fights and is the right hand man of the head prison guard, played by SNL alum, David Koechner.
Click here to visit the official site: http://www.letsgotoprison.com/
05.15.06!
LA Based Epiphany Pictures Options Skin Complex Feature Script.
Chicago, May 15th, 2006 -- Epiphany Pictures has optioned the feature film rights from Craig J. Harris for his much buzzed about, controversial and innovative script, Skin Complex. Harris’ screenplay examines race and culture issues from a unique perspective which critics describe as “thought provoking”..."one of the more provocative and daring ways to deal with race”…”Skin Complex breaks the mold.”
Skin Complex tells a story that works on several levels, as a bit of science fiction and a search for self-discovery, in which advances in technology allows a conflicted African American Professor to consider undergoing a "Race Change" operation, but he must first return home to confront his estranged, dying grandfather and the rest of his family regarding his decision.
Previously produced as a one hour TV movie airing nationally on WGN and PAX, Skin Complex won five regional Midwestern Emmy Awards and numerous other awards. Harris expanded the story into a feature script.
"I am a huge fan of Alfred Hitchcock and Rod Serling," Harris says. "I wanted to use their influence and put it into something regarding race. Stories of inclusion and diversity are often predictable morality plays with stereotypical characters, but I wanted to avoid that by creating intricate characters and storyline.” There is undoubtedly an influence of Hitchcock and Serling in Harris' story, right down to a controversial, ambiguous ending.
Epiphany’s 2005 Lions Gate feature release Road Kings played the same San Francisco film festival as Harris’ one-hour Skin Complex. Halperin says, “I was blown away by the one-hour movie and knew it had to be made into a feature, and reaching a broader audience. Not only is the topic thought provoking, but the comedy is rich. There’s a wonderful interplay between intensity and comic relief…also something that Hitchcock and Serling were known for.” Although they met in San Francisco, both Harris and Halperin hail from Chicago and would talk about the full length feature concept whenever Halperin visited Chicago or Harris visited LA.
Epiphany previously created and produced the Emmy-winning Picture Windows series for SHOWTIME and the Phenomenon series for PBS. They are currently in production on the feature American Standard and the stage musical The Adventures of Caveman Robot both in NYC. Epiphany is in preproduction on the feature Sweet Home Chicago based on Chicago author Stuart Dybek’s award-winning short story “Blight” from his collection Coast of Chicago. This film will be shot entirely in Chicago.
The deal was negotiated by Hal “Corky” Kessler of FVLD on behalf of Craig J. Harris and Bob Wyman of Wyman & Isaacs for Epiphany Pictures.
12.30.05
Craig's latest script The Kettle debuts on National Public Radio
LOS ANGELES, December 30, 2005-- Craig J. Harris’ latest work, a radio drama entitled, The Kettle, created and written exclusively NPR’s News and Notes with Ed Gordon airs Friday, December 30th.
The Kettle, a story about an office worker who starts out competing in an annual corporate charity drive to secure a promotion, only to realize the true meaning of giving, was produced by Roy Hurst and Toyia Baker, directed by Hurst and includes the voice talents of actors Meshach Taylor, Joseph C. Phillips, Charles Allen and Ren Woods.
“The story uses the humor of today’s office politics, but makes a poignant statement regarding the spirit of giving, which was sometimes undermined by reports of “charity fatigue” in the wake of Katrina, the Tsunami and other natural disasters this year” remarked Harris.
If you missed the airing of The Kettle, or don’t have NPR in your area, you can listen to it on the Internet at: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5075638
11.09.05
Skin Complex Airs Sunday, November 27th, 9AM ET (8AM CT / 6AM PT) on WGN Superstation Channel
CHICAGO, November 9, 2005-- The next telecast of Skin Complex is scheduled for Sunday, November 27th, 2005 at 9AM ET (8AM CT/6AM PT) on Superstation WGN.
This marks the second national broadcast of the controversial, yet innovative movie that examines race and culture issues, which critics describe, as a “thought provoking premise”..."one of the more provocative and daring ways to deal with race issues”…”Skin Complex breaks the mold, working on several levels as a bit of science fiction and a search for self discovery.”
The movie, written by screenwriter, Craig J. Harris, and starring Wolfgang Bodison (A Few Good Men, Joe Somebody, Little Big League) received its national broadcast premier this past May on PAX-TV.
Blind Squirrels Production Group originally produced Skin Complex for the Dreambuilder Celebration. For more information and to purchase Skin Complex,visit www.craigharris.com or www.dreambuildercelebration.org.
08.29.05
Watch Craig in the new FOX series Prison Break.
CHICAGO, August 29, 2005-- Watch Craig as he portrays the reoccurring role of a menacing and psychotically deranged inmate, in the new Fox television series Prison Break, which premiers Monday, August 29th at 8 PM (7 PM Central). Harris best describes his character as, “One mean ‘muther’.”
In addition to portraying the character in several episodes, Craig performs stunts on the show, which is being hailed as the new “24”.
Harris among VIP’s present at Illinois Film Tax incentive bill signing.
Craig was among the film industry professionals and other dignitaries present alongside Governor Rod Blagojevich when he signed an extension of the Illinois Film Production Tax Credit Act (Senate Bill 1965) on the set of Universal Pictures’ “The Break Up,” a romantic comedy starring Vince Vaughn and Jennifer Anniston filming in Chicago. The law will provide incentive for production companies to bring more films to Illinois by providing a credit against Illinois Income Tax equal up to 25% of the first $25,000 in wages associated with film production.
05.06.05
Skin Complex to Recieve National Broadcast Premier on PAX-TV
CHICAGO, May 06, 2005-- The national broadcast premier of Skin Complex is scheduled for Thursday, May 26th, 2005 at 5 AM (CST) on the PAX television network.(Check local listings for air time in your area).
The time slot is apropos for the movie’s controversial, yet innovative approach of examining race and culture issues. Critics describe Skin Complex, which stars Wolfgang Bodison (A Few Good Men, Joe Somebody, Little Big League), as a “thought provoking premise”…”it is one of the more provocative and daring ways to deal with race issues”…”Skin Complex breaks the mold, working on several levels as a bit of science fiction and a search for self discovery.”
The announcement of the airing comes as an early birthday present for screenwriter, Craig J. Harris, who wrote the award-winning movie and received the news a few days prior to his birthday. “I hope that, by having the film air nationally, the impact of the movie’s message will reach a wider audience and get the viewers thinking.”
Blind Squirrels Production Group originally produced Skin Complex for the Dreambuilder Celebration. For more information and to purchase Skin Complex,
visit www.craigharris.com or www.dreambuildercelebration.org.
Harris and other industry professionals participate in successful IPA/CFW "Getting into the Movie Business" seminar
Keeping his word to give back to the community that continues to support and nurture him, Actor and Screenwriter Craig J. Harris dispensed advice and shared his experience in the Visual Media and Film Industry to an audience at the Getting into the Movie Business seminar.
Wednesday, April 27, 2005, an audience of over fifty aspiring filmmakers participated in the Getting into the Movie Business seminar, co-sponsored by the Illinois Production Alliance’s Diversity Committee and the Community Film Workshop, at Kennedy King College.
The seminar brought together a panel of industry professionals representing a very diverse range of occupations within the production industry. In addition to Harris, panelists included Casting Director Sharon King, Cinematographer Jeffrey Brown, Locations Manager Valerie Bulinski, Illinois Film Office Diversity Officer Joyce Davis, IFP President and Locations Manager Bob Hudgins, Post Producer/Author Sandy Gordon, Director Juan Frausto, Agency Producer Darryl Manuel, and Studio Mechanic Darryl Johnson.
Harris, an IPA member and Co-Chair of the IPA Diversity Committee, assisted in organizing the event along with his fellow IPA Diversity Committee Co-Chairs, Sharon King and Valerie Bulinski.
03.23.04
Harris to be interview on ABC7 Chicago this Sunday.
CHICAGO, March 23, 2003-- Actor and screenwriter, Craig J. Harris, is scheduled to appear on Chicago's ABC7 Sunday Morning News program on March 28, 2004 to discuss his movie, Skin Complex, his career and future projects.
The interview is scheduled to air early during the seven o'clock hour. Visit http://www.craigharris.com for further details.
Harris' Screenwriting Class is a Success!
The overwhelmingly positive testimonials for Harris' February 28th screenwriting class, SCREENWRITING: The Harris Method, and strong demand for the class has resulted in Craig agreeing to conduct the workshop again, which is tentatively scheduled for late May!
For information, registration, and updates click this link: http://www.craigharris.com/contact/signup.asp
02.07.04
Watch Craig on ABC7 News & Now Appearing in Barbershop 2. Also, Register now for Harris' Screenwriting Class for 02/28/04
Craig J. Harris is scheduled to appear on Chicago's ABC7 Sunday Morning News program on March 28, 2004 to discuss his movie, Skin Complex, his acting career and future projects.
Program information and the scheduled time of the interview will be announced soon, so visit http://www.craigharris.com for updates.
See Craig currently appearing in Barbershop 2 now in Theaters
Craig is currently appearing in Barbershop 2 in a scene where he appears opposite Cedric the Entertainer in a tense standoff, between the two men, during a riot.
Barbershop 2 , the sequel to the hit comedy movie of 2002, is produced by George Tillman Jr., Robert Teitel, directed by Kevin R. Sullivan, written by Don D. Scott, and features Ice Cube, Cedric the Entertainer, Queen Latifa, Eve, Sean Patrick Harris and numerous Chicago actors.
The MGM film, shot in Chicago, is currently in theaters.
Registration Now Open for Harris' Screenwriting Class for 02/28/04
For information and registration, click this link: http://www.craigharris.com/contact/signup.asp
11.6.03
Skin Complex Wins an AFTRA American Scene Award and Harris signs with LMG for Literary Representation.
The AFTRA Tri-State Chapter presented the Dreambuilder Celebration/Blind Squirrels Production Group with the 2003 American Scene Award for the movie, Skin Complex.
The American Scene Awards, presented by the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA), recognize television and radio producers who portray the diversity of the American scene in a realistic and balanced manner.
Written by Craig J. Harris and produced by Jim Friedman as part of The Procter & Gamble Dreambuilder Celebration, Skin Complex aired in regional syndication on numerous independent stations and has captured Emmy and Telly Award honors.
Harris signs with LMG for Literary Representation
Screenwriter, Craig J. Harris has signed with Literary Management Group (LMG) for literary management and representation. This new alliance will allow Harris to pitch screenplays and concepts to major studios, producers, and creatives.
Harris' manager and LMG's principal, Jennifer Lauren, who's nine years wealth of industry experience and connections in LA , along with Harris' screenwriting talents and imagination, makes this a partnership destined for success.
Craig J. Harris to be a featured panelist for Visions Blu Symposium
Craig J. Harris will be a featured panelist during the 2nd Annual Visions Blu Film Symposium, November 14-15, 2003 at the Old State of Illinois Building, 160 N. LaSalle, in Chicago.
Harris, who is slated to appear on the screenwriting panel (November 15, 9:00 AM-10:30 AM), will officially announce the formation and details of his new Screenwriting Class during the event's two-day run.
The symposium, sponsored by Visions Blu, an urban event & entertainment marketing company, features the theme: "Exploring the Business of Film and Television". The mission of the Visions Blu Film Symposium, created by Visions Blu's founder, Karon Hamlet, is to educate, showcase and connect aspiring urban film and television talent with professionals immersed in the industry. For more information regarding the 2nd Annual Visions Blu Film Symposium, visit the Visions Blu Events Page.
9.15.03
Craig J. Harris to appear in Barbershop 2 and Announces Screenwriting Class for Winter 2003 (And Other News!)
Craig J. Harris to appear in Barbershop 2
Craig J. Harris has just completed filming on Barbershop 2, in which he appears opposite Cedric the Entertainer in a scene involving a tense standoff between the two. Barbershop 2, the sequel to the hit comedy movie of 2002, is produced by George Tillman Jr., Robert Teitel, directed by Kevin R. Sullivan, written by Don D. Scott, and features Ice Cube, Cedric the Entertainer, Eve, and Sean Patrick Harris. The film, shot entirely in Chicago, is set for release in early 2004,through MGM.
Harris announces the formation of Screenwriting Class for Winter 2003.
Craig J. Harris announced the formation of his newly created screenwriting class. The purpose of the class is to give the opportunity for new and aspiring screenwriters to learn screenwriting structure, content, and technique from Harris, who wrote the script for the TV movie, Skin Complex, which received five Emmy Awards. To learn more about the screenwriting class, currently scheduled to begin in December of 2003, sign up at Harris' web site: http://www.craigharris.com/contact/signup.asp
Harris VO work to be featured in Midway Games' NFL Blitz Pro.
Harris' latest video game Voice Over work is featured in Midway Games' NFL Blitz Pro. Craig, who also voiced characters under other Midway Game titles, such as Mortal Kombat and MLB Slugfest 20-04, voices many of the trash talking NFL football players in NFL Blitz Pro. Midway's NFL Blitz Pro. is scheduled for a fall 2003 release, and will be available in GameCube, XBOX and Playstation 2 formats.
Craig J. Harris added as panelist for VisionsBlu Film Symposium.
Harris will appear as a panelist during the 2nd Annual VisionsBlu Film Symposium, November 14th and 15th, 2003. More information concerning the specifics of the event will be made available soon.
Craig's Recent Commercial Work:
Craig's latest Voice Over:
- National radio Voice Over commercial for McDonalds.
- Two TV Voice Over spots for KFC.
- Three national radio Voice Over commercials for Gain Detergent (Proctor and Gamble).
Craig's latest On Camera:
- National Snickers commercial featuring Chicago Bears' Linebacker Brian Urlacher.
6.9.03
Skin Complex wins a Telly Award in the 24th Annual 2003 Telly Awards competition
The 2003 Procter and Gamble Dreambuilder Celebration movie, Skin Complex, continues collecting awards. In addition to recently winning five Emmy Awards, the movie, written by Craig J. Harris, has won a prestigious Telly Award.
The Telly Awards, established in 1980, recognizes outstanding non-network film and video productions. The Dreambuilder Celebration, producers of Skin Complex and winners of numerous Telly Awards, can count among it's ranks these past Telly Award winning studios: DreamWorks/SKG Studios, Walt Disney Studios, Touchstone Pictures, Harpo Productions, Sony Pictures Entertainment and The Jim Henson Studios.
Production professionals representing a cross-section of producers from around the United States participate in judging the Telly Awards. This year, over 10,000 entries were submitted this year to the Telly Award competition. Only a small percentage of those entries merited a Telly Award statuette, which is handcrafted by the same corporation that produces the Oscar and Emmy awards.
5.6.03
Skin Complex To Be Screened at the San Francisco Black Film Festival
The Emmy Award winning, 2003 Procter & Gamble Dreambuilder Celebration movie, Skin Complex, written by Craig J. Harris, has been selected from more than 100 submitted films from across the nation to be screened at the prestigious San Francisco Black Film Festival (SFBFF), June 11 - 15.
The movie's theme is ideally suited to the goals and mission of the San Francisco Black Film Festival, which is to "promote Black culture through film to broad audiences. The SFBFF helps foster the collective goal of reaching out to the entire community to educate and enrich all involved about African American life, history and culture as viewed through various perspectives."
Harris received word of the movie's selection to the SFBFF on the eve of his birthday and considers the honor an early present. "God continues to bless this endeavor and I continue to give God thanks", said Harris. "None of this would have been possible without the tremendous effort of the Dreambuilder Celebration, the actors, the technicians, and the entire Skin Complex family."
4.28.03
Skin Complex Wins Five Emmys!
Skin Complex, the 2003 Procter & Gamble Dreambuilder Celebration movie, written by Craig J. Harris, took home five Emmys from the Ohio Valley chapter of the National Television Academy.
Harris attributes the Emmy wins to the hard work and dedication of the Producers, Directors, Technicians and Actors involved in the making of Skin Complex. "I am thankful for their efforts and forever indebted to the Dreambuilder Celebration for this tremendous opportunity", said Harris.
Harris' enjoyment of the movie's success is tempered by the fact that the Dreambuilder Celebration Project faces an uncertain future and is currently seeking funding and new sponsorship.
Commenting on the possible demise of the Dreambuilder Celebration, Harris responded, "The Dreambuilder Celebration is one of a small number of competitions that gives a creative voice to the African American screenwriter. It would be a tragedy if it were to discontinue. I have vowed to the creator of the Dreambuilder Celebration, Jim Friedman, that I will do everything in my power to be an outspoken advocate to keep the Dreambuilder Celebration alive. I want other screenwriters to share in the wonderful experience and receive the exposure that I have. The dream isn't over."
Please visit Dreambuilder Celebration Web Site, or e-mail The Dreambuilder Celebration, to find out how to support and keep the Dreambuilder Celebration alive.
4.17.03
Purchase A Copy of Skin Complex, On Sale Now!
You can now purchase your very own copy of the 2003 Procter & Gamble Dreambuilder Celebration movie, Skin Complex, written by Craig J. Harris and directed by Emmy Award winning directors, Jim Friedman and Brad Pruitt.
The film, stars Wolfgang Bodison (A Few Good Men, Joe Somebody, Little Big League), Tai Bennett, Deborah Zoe, and Craig J. Harris.
The Cincinnati Post calls Skin Complex a "thought-provoking premise"…"It is one of the more provocative and daring ways to deal with race issues"…"Skin Complex breaks the mold, working on several levels as a bit of science fiction and a search for self-discovery."
To purchase a copy of Skin Complex, click on the link below to the Dreambuilder Celebration Online Store :
(Be sure to scroll down to the bottom of the page after clicking link)
Dreambuilder Celebration Online Store
1.24.03
Skin Complex Makes It's Chicago Premier, Saturday, February 8, 2003 at 7:00 PM on WCIU-TV CH. 26.
The 2003 Procter & Gamble Dreambuilder Celebration movie, Skin Complex, written by Craig J. Harris and directed by Emmy Award winning directors, Jim Friedman and Brad Pruitt, makes its Chicagoland Broadcast Premier on Chicago’s "U", WCIU-TV, Channel 26, on Saturday, February 8, 2003 at 7:00 PM. The film, starring Wolfgang Bodison (A Few Good Men, Joe Somebody, Little Big League), deals with the social mores of some blacks and whites who are not content with the color of their skin.
For a complete schedule of stations and air dates for Skin Complex, follow this link to the Dreambuilder Celebration web site: http://www.dreambuildercelebration.org/movies/showtimes3.htm
12.10.02
Harris Flexes In The January 2003 Issue Of EBONY Magazine
Actor Craig J. Harris is spotlighted in the January 2003 Issue of Ebony Magazine’s ‘BodyTalk’ health and fitness feature. The article, written by Marsha Gilbert, explores Harris’ dedication to fitness and health, his philosophy on exercise, and examines the role fitness plays in his life as a professional actor. The article also includes exercise tips and training advice from Harris and features photos of Craig working out in his newly remodeled in-home fitness studio. The January 2003 Issue of Ebony features LL Cool J on the cover.
Visit the Ebony Magazine's Web Site: http://www.ebony.com
8.22.02
Harris’ script wins the 2003 Procter & Gamble Dreambuilder Celebration Scribe Competition
A successful, upwardly mobile African-American professional believes life would be better if he could change the way he looks. He has never felt comfortable "living in his own skin." But now, due to technological advances, he has the chance to change his life. The decision is easy. The consequences are forever. The 2003 Procter & Gamble Dreambuilder Celebration movie, "Skin Complex" is about understanding who you are and loving who you can be.
Craig J. Harris' script, "Skin Complex" was selected by a panel of 11 judges from more than 150 entries submitted as this year's Procter & Gamble Dreambuilder Celebration Scribe competition winner. The film features Wolfgang Bodison (A Few Good Men, Joe Somebody, Little Big League) in the lead role.
Judges praised Harris' work, calling it "a unique concept with an original way of dealing with perceptions", "a fascinating premise", "an interesting look at racism through the twilight zone" and "entertaining with a twist of comedy".
"The story involves a new technological break through allows race change procedures. A successful, young black man on the eve of undergoing this procedure must first confront his family, during a visit home to see his dying Grandfather, which whom he’s had a rocky relationship and begins becoming conflicted", says Harris. Regarding how his story connects with the Dreeambuilder mission, Harris comments, "Skin Complex addresses the Dreambuilder Foundation’s mission to illuminate topics of interests that examine diverse races and cultures. I sought to present a story that explores the perceived importance that the antagonist places on the color of skin and the impact he feels that it will have in determining his station in life. Skin Complex uses a science fiction and compelling storytelling to address the issues of race relations, racial self hatred, perceived observations of cultures and stereotypes and teaches a lesson of understanding and appreciating, not only our individual heritage, but our inner selves."
Read the entire story online at: http://www.dreambuildercelebration.org/news/080102.htm.
To learn more about the Dreambuilder Celebration, visit: http://www.dreambuildercelebration.org
8.27.02
Craig J. Harris Featured in Lead Role of screen adaptation of Sartre’s "No Exit"
Harris Featured in Lead Role of screen adaptation of Sartre’s "No Exit": In a departure from his usual roles, Craig J. Harris performs masterfully in the lead role of the cowardly Garcia in the Johnson Brothers’ Feature Film Production, "No Exit".
The screenplay, written by Matthew T. Johnson (who also penned, "FAQ", "Throne of Blood" and "Vicarious V") and based on the play by the existentialist mastermind Jean-Paul Sartre, No Exit is a gripping psychological thriller that delivers a disturbing and thought-provoking message about the nature of human existence.
To learn more about the movie or see the trailer, visit: http://www.noexitthemovie.com
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