Approximately one million years ago, I directed a short film based on a brilliant idea by the brilliant Lisa Jolley. It’s a Blair Witch spoof called “The Penny Marshall Project,” and it stars Lisa, Todd Stashwick, and Bobby Nakanishi as three filmmaking titans who get lost in the woods while searching for their independent spirit. Todd reminded me about the film today on the Twitter and suggested I put it online, and that sounded like a great idea. So enjoy!
Greg Pak: Penny Marshall Project
A short film conceived by Lisa Jolley and directed by Greg Pak
1999, 12 minutes, color. Three aging filmmakers (Penny Marshall, Frances Ford Coppola, and Akira Kurosawa) disappear into the woods while searching for their independent spirit. Hilarity, of course, ensues. Produced by the Pollyannas, a New York based improvisational comedy group.
Lisa Jolley as Penny Marshall
Bobby Nakanishi as Akira Kurosawa
Todd Stashwick as Francis Ford Coppola
Conceived by Lisa Jolley
Directed by Greg Pak
Produced by Lisa Jolley, Greg Pak, and Jay Bushman
Cinematography by Greg Pak, Lisa Jolley, and Todd Stashwick
Assistant producer: Denise Cristofalo
Edited by Greg Pak
Special thanks to Bill and Shanda Stiles and Mike and Debbie Everett-Lane
“Penny Marshall Project” screenings
Festivals & Screenings
2001 20,000 Leagues Under the Industry Film Festival, Cleveland, OH
2000 Louisville Film Festival, Louisville, KY
2000 Freaky Film Festival, Champaign, IL
2000 Chicago Underground Film Festival
2000 San Diego Asian Film Festival
2000 Opaline Screening Series, NYC
2000 Firewater Films Screening Series, NYC
2000 Arizona International Film Festival
2000 New York Underground Film Festival