The Official Overlord Pictures Blog

HTML5 is here, baby!

2010-07-01T17:20:00.001-06:00

As you'd know, if you've been to the site recently, we have a new video player (again!) And it's in pure HTML5! No plug-ins, no slow Flash loading, no Flash in general. This is exciting news, not only because you can view our website on the iPad, but because it works natively with your browser, meaning it loads faster and runs smoother. There is one drawback, however, but it's only pertaining to Firefox users: OGG. Let me just say that this is quite possibly the worst codec I've had the displeasure of using. It's barely supported and hard to find encoders/decoders for. And, much to my luck, is the only codec Firefox can use for HTML5 videos. Safari and Chrome can use the (dare I say it) better h.264 codec, which makes it super easy for me on my Mac. Some people will argue that Mozilla's choice was for the best because it's an open-source codec and has no license or royalty fees, and for that they are correct, but what the choice has left us with is a far inferior and little-known codec. What is the point I'm trying to make with this? Simple. Most of our videos converted to OGG Theora just fine. All but one: Speedy. I'm not sure of the reason behind this, but I've taken most of the day to try and figure it out to no avail, so I've given up. This is no reason to fret, however, for all of our videos are up and running in amazing quality on YouTube. That and Mozilla is working a new codec into Firefox: WebM. Most of you probably haven't heard of it, but that's okay, you will in due time. For now, though, until the horrible OGG situation is fixed, we'll have to wait. Hopefully that time is soon. Until then, here's looking at you, kid...

-Overlord T.J.

Blogged with the Flock Browser

UPDATE 2/19/10

2010-02-20T01:36:00.002-07:00

A MAJOR update has taken place on the OP site, even though nothing seems changed. It has, believe me. I have made two significant changes that should be addressed. Firstly: our video player has changed. This was done in an act to try and speed up our content delivery, for as all two of you know, our videos sometimes loaded incredibly slow. Well, that has changed for the better. We are now using the Bittorrent DNA-enabled player. This means that the player harnesses the speed and power of peer-to-peer technology and standard web streaming to bring you our videos significantly faster. However, this added speed (ironically enough) will only be available to Windows users, which most of the people, besides me, who visit the site use. The only thing you have to do to benefit from this wondrous advancement is install a small plug-in to your browser once. You can, of course, opt to not, but as I've illustrated you WILL NOT see an improvement in speed if you don't.

Anyways, enough of that chatter. The second, more minor update that I did to the site was replace the film "Esc". I went back to the drawing board and completely re-edited the whole thing. I did this because, no matter how much I loved the original edit, I felt it needed some more polish. So I did this and, unlike previously where I would have multiple versions of the same film up, I decided to just outright replace the old with the new. I feel it is now the film it was meant to be and I want you all to see it!

Well, figuring all this out has sure got me tired, so I'm gonna go and pass out in my nice warm bed. Yours truly signing out.

Overlord T.J.

UPDATE 11/8

2009-11-08T19:18:00.004-07:00

Holy fucking Moses, Batman! It's been a while since I've updated you all (yes, all two of you) on the meager comings and goings of the big OP. For the last few months some small changes have occurred, one being a change of address. Another being we're becoming more active in our film-making, we've got some cool things in store that should see light before the beginning of 2010, two of said ideas having to do with music (in ways we've never explored before). Hopefully I'll remember to update this in the coming weeks when I have more news. Until then, ta ta! Yours truly,

-Overlord T.J.

P.S. I forgot to mention, but due to production difficulties, "Summer of the Porch" won't be seeing light until late next year (mostly due to the fact that we have to re-shoot a bunch and can't do that until next summer). Rest assured that we haven't scrapped it (or the TV show for that matter), we've just had to push the schedule around a bit, albeit a wee bit more than we'd like but tough tittie for us!

UPDATE 6/23

2009-06-23T23:12:00.002-06:00

Holy shit it's been a while! I mean a whole month has gone by in almost an instant. I guess that's what happens when you've been as busy as we have here at OP. But it's all been good, since we're almost ready to start shooting "Summer of the Porch". Yes! I said it! We're actually prepared! This past month hasn't been us just twiddling our thumbs and playing with our assholes, nay, we've been writing and revising the script (which is about one look-over from being completely complete), gathering cast and crew, and scheduling like a motherfucker. But it will all have been worth it.
That being said, I have other good OP news for you! It involves us and TV! Again, yes! I said it! TV! We've been kicking about the idea of going on public broadcast for a while now, and it looks like a chance might be opening up for us! More details later when all has been ironed out more fully.
With that all out of the way, I want to talk about distribution. I know it's a bit early, but I want everyone to know that we'll be releasing a DVD (Sundance or no) and an HD download. A date has not been set yet, for we need to know if we'll be going to Sundance, but at the latest probably around Feb. of next year, but it could always be sooner. Again, we'll give more details later when all is said and done. One thing I would like to flesh out about the distribution, though, would be a few small details. One of which is that the DVD is being planned as we speak to be loaded with extras. I mean so much you probably won't know what to do with it all. And, the HD download will be full 1080p, the complete film, and be completely free. Yes, free! Why, you ask? Because we don't want to see our films pirated, so we want to share the best quality version possible to the people who want it that way, legally! And because we're fairly certain that if the people really like it, they'll buy it. If not for the film, for the extras.
And with that final remark I shall say au revoir. Yours truly signing out.

-Overlord T.J.

UPDATE 5/25

2009-05-25T21:22:00.002-06:00

Sorry for the horribly long wait, but I've been quite busy these past two months. I have a fair share of news, so sit down, relax, and fucking listen! First of all, have you seen the new site? I've just finished completely overhauling it and giving it an overdue face lift that Joan Rivers herself would be astonished by. We have a clean, modern layout that reflects our style, and a NEW LOGO!! We've been trying for a new logo for a while now and we've finally delivered! Praise is welcome. Please stop by the site and give it a looksie (if you haven't seen it already, that is). If you love it, send an email. If you hate it, send an email. We'd love to hear feedback.
Also (some big news here so get ready), we're going to Sundance this year, well, hopefully. This is good news for we thought it wasn't going to happen, but we've come up with a surefire way to try and be part of one of the biggest indie gatherings in the world. And it doesn't include "dull." It's heartbreaking, for us and you, to have to say that, but it's just not possible. We don't have any preparations ready for it at all, including script. But next year is our goal!
So what are we going to take, you ask? Very good question that I'll be pleased to answer. It's going to be a 20-40 min. short titled: "Summer of the Porch". It's a film loosely based on Jared's childhood, and is sure to please all of you.
I think that about wraps it up, so without further adieu, I shall bid you adieu. Yours truly signing out.

-Overlord T.J.

UPDATE 3/29

2009-03-29T20:46:00.001-06:00

Hey everyone! It's been a while since I've updated you all on the progress on "dull." We're still in the process of writing it, in fact, we're starting from scratch. Jared and I both agreed that the original thought and flow of it was that of the short film still and didn't fit the feature concept, so we're going back to the drawing board. This means two things for all of you: 1. delay and 2. a WAY better film that will be definitely worth the wait. True, the delay will be nerve wracking for you (and us of OP), but it will be worthwhile in the end. From what we have planned so far I can tell you that you will be ever more blown away by the film than what we had before. It will address many of our congruency issues and add in a few things to develop the characters more fully. So I ask of you to bear with us and wait as long as needed for us to make this the best film possible. Thanks in advance.

With that said, I would like to mention that we won't be not doing ANY films until then meaning: we have some shit planned to whet (and somewhat appease) your appetite in the meanwhile. Keep updated on our site for we have a new HD cam and sizzling and sparking creative minds oozing on the edge of insanity (of creativity, that is). Film will happen. Just not anything
the caliber of "dull." They will probably be shorts. More news on them in the coming months.

Thanks for reading and adieu.

Overlord T.J.

UPDATE 3/9

2009-03-09T20:55:00.002-06:00

Tomorrow, OP will break the near horizon and fulfill our advent prophecy! If you didn't understand that, what I meant to say was: Tomorrow I'm ordering our new HD cam! It's actually happening! This is great news for all you mindless followers out there for "dull." is coming along greatly as well. Perfect picture, perfect story. It's an awesome marriage. We're all excited here at OP for it.

In other news, when we get the camera and all, we're going to do a bunch of tests and cool shit (some of which is planned for the "dull." DVD!). That brings me to my next truth nugget of news: we're going to be a part of Out of Hand Festival. If you haven't heard of it, it's a multimedia festival geared towards content for mobile devices. We have a great idea for a submission that's going to make you all laugh your asses right the fuck off. And that's no lie.

Anyways, keep on the lookout for new content 'cause it's coming like a shitstorm on Tuesday! With that said, I shall take my leave for your anticipation must be matured further before more truth can sate it. Yours truly signing off.

Overlord T.J.

UPDATE 3/3

2009-03-03T23:58:00.003-07:00

Hello there, all ye fans of the Overlord Pictures! I'm here today to talk to you about "dull."! We're nearing completion of the first draft! This is exciting for us for our whole pre-production schedule revolves around this script being done. It almost is.

This is good news for us, and even better news to all of you who read this. Why, you ask? Because we're starting our casting soon. That means that anyone who has ever wanted to be in a film can have a chance soon. The only drawback is that you must either live here in Montana, or be willing to travel to our wonderful state for filming. If anyone who reads this wants to get a leg up on the competition you can send us a test for us to scrutinize. This is no joke, for once. We are accepting videos, or written acting resumes (or a really good story). You can choose to do a preemptive test or resume, or you can wait for us to have our official casting call here in Helena.

I encourage anyone who wants to be in a film to submit for we're even looking for extras. Submissions (which are just an email, we aren't professional/have enough time to have a form) can be sent to any of the email addresses located on the Contact Us page of the main OP site. The subject should read something like: "Casting Submission" or "Dull Casting". The body should include a short summary of yourself and why you think you should be a part of our film. Feel free to attach videos or resumes in any format (I'll find the codec/program). Oh, and it's not a requirement, but a plus, to include a head shot or photo of yourself in the email.

Okay, now that I have that done, I can rest in peace and await submissions (hopefully:D). Stay tuned for more info and news. Until next time. Yours truly signing out.

Overlord T.J.

P.S. I forgot to mention above that it's also a plus to include a contact number or email address in the email.

UPDATE 2/11

2009-02-11T22:06:00.002-07:00

Okay. Here's the deal with what's been going on here at the big OP: we've been really busy lately! Busy as in slowly watching "dull." come to fruition. Yes! It's true! We're making our feature debut with "dull."! It's quite exciting for us, and a tad bit stressful. Not really all that stressful, but enough to give me a headache every now and then. So far the whole process has been moving smoothly. I mean the writing process has been working well thus far.

To give you a taste of how we're writing this I'll give an example: Jared and I have a rap session where we spitball ideas, he also writes a rough outline of everything including notes and dialogue; I take this outline and then expand it, all the while formatting it and writing it into screenplay form; I have Jared read it and make notes (if need be); we continue this process until we have finished the first draft; we take the first draft and have a few people read it, give notes, and then we re-write until we're satisfied; the outcome is the shooting draft. The whole process takes a few months, but has been moving along swiftly for us. If you wanted to know, we're in the first draft stage still. It's nearly done, though. It should be a complete draft sometime next month.

In other news, I'm officially getting a new camera next month. It'll come soon enough that I can start doing tests and figure everything out before we start principal photography. This will give us a leg up with our advent of HD.

I feel better now that everyone (I mean all two of you, that is) knows the game plan for right now. See you next post, where I may slip a few more tidbits of "dull." In the time between posts, don't forget to view our older films and donate money to our cause! Yours truly signing out.

Overlord T.J.

UPDATE 1/9

2009-01-09T00:12:00.002-07:00

Wow! The past year has been like jumping from one treacherous hell-hole to another, all-the-while skipping merrily singing: "TRA LA LA" at the top of your lungs. As with all things, though, that is behind us and the past rests soundly, until it's awoken thirty years from now by some dumbfuck, past-mongering codger, the kind no one in their right mind associates with. Anyways, all points aside, last year: bad, coming year: good. At least we hope.

Okay now that I've gotten that out of my system I can get to the point: The Future of OP. I've briefly brushed this subject in the past and now it's time to take it full-on. Are you ready? Good.

I mentioned earlier last year that OP was moving to HD. We still are! The only change is that I have found a better camera for a wee bit more. It's the Canon VIXIA HG21, look it up. And the good news of all this is that ALL of our upcoming films will be shot, cut, and mastered in 1080p FHD.

Another change is our format. I don't mean our content distribution (which I'll be getting to later), but our film format. I've been thinking about this for a while now and I've decided that all of our new films are to be minimum of 20 min. for shorts and over 70 for features.

That brings me to another point. We're going to start focusing more on feature-length films than shorts. True, shorts are easier to make, but ours just lack on narrative and plot (mostly because they were never written down and they were pretty much thrown together). So expect our films to be better, 'cause, yes, we noticed our films weren't the greatest in those fields.

Also, since we're taking a step towards features, we have to find new ways to get our content out there. Veoh is cool in the fact that you can have a video of any length uploaded on their site, but that's bad in a way, mostly because the quality isn't the greatest. Because of that I've been thinking of new, if not better, ways of getting our films out there. I came to a conclusion that since we have to put our films on DVD for Sundance anyway we might as well start a DVD program. I have looked into this and found that it's quite simple with Amazon. So sometime in the future, be expecting to be able to get our films on DVD (and maybe Blu-Ray, I've been looking into that, too).

As you can see from our plans for the future of OP, we're managing to stay independent, and that's our goal. The heart and soul of this operation thrives on the fact that we CAN and WILL do ANYTHING to make our films great.

Oh, I almost forgot, about some new projects. I already mentioned that we're making Crucifiction Friday into a feature, so that's not what this is about. Then what is it? Project Dull, of course! I have been thinking about this for a while, man I've been doing a lot of that haven't I?, and I think that we need to do it soon. So I plan on getting together with Jared soon and writing a nice little script for it. We also have another project that was planned to be part of another project, but I changed my mind and I decided that it deserves to be on its own. What could it be, you ask? Well, I don't want to ruin the surprise, not only for surprise sake, but also for probable legal reasons. Just think of: "Saving Private Ryan" and a classic story with a famously outlandish rhyming scheme, and I think you might get the idea. That, too, I have to talk to Jared about, so it's not for sure yet! But stay tuned and find out!

Anyways, happy new year all, I hope we live up to every expectation that all three of you fans have in your heads. With that I shall say goodnight and goodluck. Yours truly signing out.

Overlord T.J.

UPDATE 12/16

2008-12-16T22:49:00.002-07:00

HOLY FUCKING MOSES! AN UPDATE WITHIN DAYS OF THE LAST!

It's a miracle, I know. This usually never happens. Ever. Well, maybe once or twice, but it was an accident. This, my good readers, is not. It is an update that will BLOW YOUR MIND. So much so that you will have to re-wallpaper (if you have wallpaper, that is). The so urgent, so awesomely kick ass that Chuck Norris himself salutes, update is:

are you ready for it?

like really ready?

okay then, here it is:

We're making Crucifiction Friday into a feature-length film! Isn't that great? I know some of you are probably saying "no". You shouldn't. Really. It's going to be a billion times better than the original.

The reason I'm writing this is because I just started the screenplay for it, and let me tell you it's good. Jared and I have been talking briefly about it and I decided to bring it to fruition. I will tell you more in the later days, for I'm not done yet.

For now, chew on this underdone nugget of information and await further details of your hopefully favorite film company.

Peace out from yours truly.

Overlord T.J.

Update 12/11

2008-12-11T00:03:00.002-07:00

HOLY MOTHER OF FUCK it's been quite a while! I know I say that every time, but it's just as true each and every one. Anyways, I had an epiphany last night. It consisted of one of the best film ideas I've ever had up to this point. I haven't worked out all the details as of yet, but I will be ironing them out over the coming days (or weeks, or months). I have picked out a title: "The Visitors". I know, it sounds cliche. It's not. It is to be a totally different IP from our current lineup of tasty tidbits. I hope you like it.

That said, I wanted to mention Project "Dull". Jared and I haven't talked about it and it still doesn't have a completed screenplay. I do, however, still have an interest in the project and it may come to fruition in the future.

That's all of the shit that I can think of for now, my brain feels sleepy. If I can think of anything after this post I will, as always, update each and every one of you.

That being said, I shall say adieu and goodnight. Yours truly.

Overlord T.J.

Update 10/25

2008-10-25T22:53:00.002-06:00

Wow, it's been a while. I don't know if anybody DOES read this, but I'm sorry to the people that do for I have been slacking major. A lot of shit has been going down here. A LOT! For a period I thought I was done making films. But alas, I'm back on track and there should be new content on the way.

OP to go HD!!!

2008-08-15T11:41:00.003-06:00

Yes, the headline is true, I have been contemplating this move for a while now, but never thought it would happen. And wouldn't you know it, I was surfing around Amazon at one in the morning (a usual habit for me) and something caught my eye: a Canon VIXIA HF10. It's only $807! As you can see this is a great deal since it shoots in FULL 1080p!
Before, when I was perusing Sony the only fairly good full 1080p was over $1000, and, as you could probably tell from the budget of my films, I don't have that kind of money. Well, I do, but I don't. It's kind of a pickle.

Anyways, I will have the money in the coming months, so you'll be seeing higher quality films shortly. I will also be purchasing a windsocked boom mic for your listening pleasure as well.

So, without further ado, I shall take my leave. Keep watching and keep faith in us. Yours truly.

Overlord T.J.

Update 8/12

2008-08-12T00:05:00.002-06:00

WOW! It's been quite a jaunt since I've filled your head with our banter, so I'll pack it in so tight it'll be only half digested next update! Anyways, back to the REAL subject, Project "Dull" is still underway. Jared is expanding the script, for, if I haven't already stated, we're planning to submit this to Sundance. We're hoping that it will be long enough to be in the "feature" category. So far it's still in the pre-production stage, but with some luck it'll be on it's way soon.

In other news, I wanted to be the first to tell you about my new script. I know that it seems like we keep coming up with projects and scrapping them, but that's how us indies do it. Never fret on those scrapped projects, I assure you that some of them will probably be revisited. Okay, though, back to what I was saying before: I'm writing a new script. Sierra has helped tremendously by chatting with me about ideas for it and I'm sure it will pay off. What I will say about it is that it's about an angry, and horrendously ugly, redneck hermaphrodite woman and her gay son. If I have your attention there then keep reading. The woman, whose name is Margret Spermdumpster-Pedittle, is visited by her son and finds out that he's gay, and, if that's not enough, she has a rare form of brain cancer which makes her lash out in violent ways. The film is jokingly entitled: "Bitch with a 12 Gauge". Expect it sometime in the future, probably when I make Overlord Pictures a full-fledged production company.

Well, that's it for now! Stay tuned and keep giving us your support by watching and commenting on our movies and/or downloading our free podcast (which is optimized for iPod). Yours truly signing out.

Overlord T.J.

Update 7/14

2008-07-14T22:00:00.002-06:00

Big things are cooking here at the big OP! We have a large project in the works and I'm gonna give you a little inside skivvy on what it pertains to. First of all, we have a re-cut of "serial KILLER" out and on the web. The reason I brought that up is that we're expanding our horizons on the new project and making a "Near-Feature", meaning it's going to be quite long. The "expanding horizons" meaning stretching our skills and use of visual effects. As you can tell, if you've watched "serial KILLER (REDUX)", we're trying to find new ways for our films to astound. That said, I'll stop yanking your short hairs and tell you what's going on. The project is named "Dull". It is written by our one and only Jared Jacobs and is going to be starring a few fresh faces. For the time being I'm still trying to figure out the look and feel of the "distorted reality" of the film. It's going to be in a whole different ballpark from our past films and will hopefully change some people's minds on OP.

On another note, with nothing to do with film, I've gotten married! I've been too busy to update with the great news as the event in question happened on the 3rd, but here it is! Yes, that's correct, we have a new hand aboard the flagship of Overlord Pictures!

Be well, readers, and don't forget to check back every now and then for the few and far between updates. This is yours truly signing out.

Overlord T.J.

Mission Statement

2008-06-10T15:36:00.001-06:00

I have a task for you to complete if you wish. Tell everyone you know, on- and off-line, about the awesomeness that is Overlord Pictures. Send them a link or this message with the link: Overlord Pictures

If they are off-line, then tell them about the site. The mission is to spread the OP name and vision. Please help us.

--T.J. Williams
(a.k.a. Capn' Funk)

By the way, please forward this message to all.

BIG NEWS!!!!!!

2008-06-02T14:55:00.002-06:00

If you are reading this after trying to find the link on the old site, I'm so sorry. Things the past few days have been interesting in the Overlord Pictures area. I got my new iMac (which I am writing from this moment) and I redesigned the website. I tried my hardest to keep the .com, but alas my tech wizardry is rusty and I had to revert to a .net. So, as you can gather, to get to the site you just switch out the endings. Simple. Now about the site: It's quite in its infancy state so you won't find much on it, but I will be working during all of my free time to update.

Also, Overlord Pictures will be starting a podcast! It won't be out for a while, but when it is you can subscribe from the convenient button that will be on the site.

So, in all, please be patient and everything will go as smooth as silk.

P.S. The CD idea has been put on the back burner until further notice.

Update 5/12

2008-05-12T21:37:00.001-06:00

I have some interesting news for everyone here: I'm making a CD! Yes, Overlord Pictures has expanded from just film to music as well! And as such, I have decided to branch out and create Overlord Records for my music. The CD will be available (hopefully) sometime in June, July at latest.

Here's the album art for you to gawk at until the release:

P.S. There IS a joke about the title and the covers, see if you can figure it out :P

Update 5/5

2008-05-05T23:29:00.001-06:00

It's been a while, I know, but I thought I would drop this line to notify those who give a damn that I'm not dead and that I've been writing and saving like crazy (I'm now $286 away from my goal). This is good news for you all because that means new website and more (even better) films. So, keep your hopes up and I shall deliver, say around June.

Update 4/5/08

2008-04-05T08:38:00.001-06:00

Hello to all three of you that view this! I have some news for you that will be somewhat shocking (if you actually watch our films). We're holding off filming for a while till I get my Mac. I know I've said it before, but this time I mean it. I believe it's the right choice ('cause video editing suites on pc suck ass).

So, with this news in hand, you'll probably have to wait a few more months till "Mr. Contract", but I assure you that it will rock your bloody fucking socks off!

News 'n shit

2008-03-17T23:47:00.001-06:00

We have a slight update for you here, steaming with it's pungent stench of newsy goodness. Mr. Contract is still set to be filmed sometime in the coming months along with our stalker film and the final "Ex" film. Yes, it's true, we're going back to our roots with the latest "Ex" film due to come out in June (don't take that too literally, I'm sure all two of you that read this know me well enough to know that that can change).

In other news, we have a new branch, though I'm not exactly sure how organized or true to the OP brand they are 'cause Jared's the one with the updates, of Overlord Pictures in San Diego, CA led by the one and only Notorious Mr. Pimp. We hope with every strand of our futile beings that our slow conquering of the world through film will be victorious, but alas, only time (and fans) can tell.

New Hosting!!!!!!

2008-03-01T08:32:00.001-07:00

Our videos will now be posted on Veoh. I will update our site later with these videos. Please also note that any new films will be both on our new hosting, and YouTube.

An easier way to view all our films on YouTube

2008-01-31T17:41:00.001-07:00

You can just keep posted here and watch all our films (new and old) on this nifty new player:

Macworld 08

2008-01-16T01:26:00.001-07:00

I have just finished watching the expo and I am astounded by the achievements that Apple has made in just 2 weeks! I mean my god! The MacBook Air is a tantalizing subject for mine eyes. I can't wait for the next keynote!

Dammit I want a Mac now!

New Films!!!!

2008-01-14T20:36:00.001-07:00

We have some new films here at the OP. This post is kinda late, but at least it's being made.

The films include:

HELENA CITY NIGHTS

THIRD REICH HAIR SALON