Saturday, December 26, 2020

Week 536: The Holidays in a Different Place

Weekly Written Review 

For the first time in the history of my life, I'm not with my parents for the holidays. It's also my first time I'm spending Christmas in Los Angeles. Covid certainly plays a role in my decision not to travel but it's not the sole reason. It's better to be home with family but I'm not in the spirit of traveling. I still have a lot on my plate (remaster) and it makes sense to stay put. 

My Christmas was nice. Spent it with Atarah's family near a beautiful beach. I played with Zorka and Frankie (dogs) most of the time I was there. Overall, my day was nice, different... Watched some shows and a movie... played some video games... I'm a simple guy, those are things I like to do around the holidays. I don't need much to be entertained. It would be nice to be around parents but that's not the reason I'm not at ease. I'm essentially a prisoner to myself until I get my remaster completed. The plan is to return to my work grind next week. We'll see what happens. 


Sunday, December 20, 2020

* Remaster / Closed captioning - day 18

* Phone meeting with Pam


Monday, December 21, 2020

* Remaster / Closed captioning - day 19

* No Time Traveling editing...

* Watching Terminator: Dark Fate


Tuesday, December 22, 2020

* ????? (wrong something down but can't figure out my handwriting, lol) 

* 1st set of push-ups in over a week. I've been lazy. 


Wednesday, December 23, 2020

* Tennis. Dominated all day in doubles with my team.

* Started watching Mandalorian 


Thursday, December 24, 2020

* Mandalorian... 

* Xbox Box Game Pass sign up

* Lazy day...

* Phone calls...


Friday, December 25, 2020

* Holiday day gathering: White Point Beach - Royal Palmas Park - Picnic Area/ San Pedro 

* Watching: Mandalorian, Percy Jackson - Lightning Thief and started Dragon's Dogma


Saturday, December 26, 2020

* Last Brawlhalla tournament for season one...


As the quest continues...

The future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Week 535: Not 100

 Weekly Written Review 

Now that I'm done with the Aaron's House Webithon, Rally of Support, it's my time to focus-in and grind-out the remaster of my web series but that hasn't been the case. I'm mentally worn out, plus my bright idea to start a late-night talk show on Animal Crossing isn't helping. My brain is fatigued and I practically forced myself to edit those Youtube videos. Just a friendly reminder to myself why I don't like producing for Youtube.  Zero remaster work was completed this week. 

Physically, I was in pain, cold, and slightly under weather because of the temp change. It takes a moment for my body to adjust to the new weather and to add that third blanket. I was not 100% this week, I hovered around 80-85%. To top it off, my back started hurting badly. At first, wasn't sure of the source. I tried every sleeping position 1,000 times but my back found a way to draw pain. Turns out, my bed is the culprit. The mattress dips in the middle and it's beyond repair. It makes sense, I've been sleeping on that bed for about 9 years, it was used before I got it and I've tapped down a handful of metal springs protruding through the mattress over time. 

After realizing it was my bed causing the pain, my stubbornness only made my back worse. All I wanted to do was lay in the bed but sleep, under the covers, hiding from the cold and as a result, more pain.

Reluctantly, I had to go for a walk and new bed shopping. Thankfully, finding a new bed wasn't painful. I got one from a shop one block away and I ended up receiving the bed as a gift. Thanks, Pam. 

Last week I had neck pain, this week back pain. It's cold. It's time to chill out a little. I'm exhausted. 


Sunday, December 13, 2020

* Trader Joe's

* AC interview with LuLu


Monday, December 14, 2020

* Editing...

* Tired... sleeping most of the day... (It's cold)


Tuesday, December 15, 2020

* Work up with serious backpain!!!! Barb gave me some wood to put between my bed for the night and it helped a little but not fully 

* Dragon Soldiers release


Wednesday, December 16, 2020

* New Bed. Thank you Aaron's House. Thanks, Pam.

* Participated in a wack financial seminar


Thursday, December 17, 2020

* Brought my first Steam game: Fall Guys. Also got a few Switch games on sale, Among Us, Ultimate Chicken Horse

* Brawlhalla training...


Friday, December 18, 2020

* NO tennis

* To At's

* Gaming, Fall Guys...


Saturday, December 19, 2020

* Netflix Watching: Alive

* Gaming...


As the quest continues...

The future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Sunday, December 20, 2020

Week 534: Worn Into Retirement, Again

 Weekly Written Review 

In recent weeks and days, I put the remastering of my web series on the back burner to direct and produce a live webithon with Aaron's House. Overall, it was a great success and it wore me out and the thought of doing a sequel send me into retirement. I'll need a bulk of time to play catch up and recover. 


Sunday, December 6, 2020

* Aaron's House Telethon

* No Time Traveling ep1 recording/logo

*Watching Spartacus


Monday, December 7, 2020

* Editing No Time Traveling trailer

* Post Webithon talk and...

* Island Inspection Tour recording ep1... VO's 

* Return home


Tuesday, December 8, 2020

* AC trailer post, form creation...

* Aaron's House emails...

* Woke up with a bad neck...


Wednesday, December 9, 2020

* Back to remastering/closed captioning. Started season 2 (ep 1& 2) - day 15

* Quality time with Barb


Thursday, December 10, 2020

* Closed captioning... - day 16

* Created a No Time Traveling email/flier


Friday, December 11, 2020

* Tennis with Grace/Tehana

* Closed captioning. Completed season 2 - day 17


Saturday, December 12, 2020

* Brawlhalla tournament 


As the quest continues...

The future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Week 533: COVID DOES IT AGAIN

 Weekly Written Review 

The season for game shows came to an end thanks to Covid. My team and I recorded an episode of a game show on November 19th and before leaving they indicated we might get invited back for a redemption episode. Not long afterward, a date was set for Thursday, December 3rd but the day before the show called to cancel. It's disappointing but Covid conditions are really bad right now. On the bright side, the same day, I was supposed to be on the game show, I accepted a request on Linkedin and that person inquired about my scripts. I ended up submitting two screenplays to their company. Chances are I would've missed this opportunity if I attended the game show. In 30 days or so let's see if the cancellation was destiny or not. 


Sunday, November 29, 2020

* Rally For Support - Rehearsal 

* Rewatching Vampire Dairies...


Monday, November 30, 2020

* Aaron's House stuff...

* Spartacus - completed season 2


Tuesday, December 1, 2020

* Remastering: Closed captioning - completed season 1 - day 16

* Aaron's House planning...


Wednesday, December 2, 2020

* Phone call with John

* Lenovo complaining...

* Haircut

* Phone call that cancelled tomorrow's shoot. Disappointing but they liked us. We can only hope they'll keep us in mind for the future for other shows as they said they would.  


Thursday, December 3, 2020

* GAC shooting cancelled :-(

* A connect on Linkedin reached and I ended up submitting two of my screenplays for production consideration.  

* I've been a member of Linkedin since July 21, 2020, and today I posted on Linkedin for the very first time to promote Rally For Support. 

* Aaron's House stuff...

* Watching Spartacus...


Friday, December 4, 2020

* Aaron's House promoting/planning...

* Bank, Smart & Final, garage stop, Food 4 Less


Saturday, December 5, 2020

* Rally For Support planning, extended rehearsal

* 1.4 mile jog


As the quest continues...

The future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Saturday, December 5, 2020

Week 532: Rest In Love Bill Wynn

Weekly Written Review 

I was saddened by the loss of Bill Wynn this week. He was one of my biggest advocates. Below are a few words I shared about him on my Quarterly Wrap Festival Facebook page.

------------------

Consistent, wise, patriarch, leader, organizer, father figure, historian, and hero. When the Quarter Wrap Festival was running Bill Wynn was its publicist. Bill Wynn kept our seats filled, always recruiting and looking out for his people. Kandace Caine is one of the many people he introduced me and she's one of my most valuable connections in LA. When we needed a new location, Billy Wynn was our location scout, hence leading us to the Mayme A. Clayton Library and Museum as our home location for its last two years. Most notable of all his deeds was his uncanny belief in me. Bill Wynn The Great ordained me as The Future of Late Night Television and I will not let him down. If all of us lived our lives and supported each other just a fraction of the way Bill Wynn did, the world will be a much better place. Bill Wynn thank you for being an important presence in my quest. You were the missing link to many of my endeavors I am forever grateful. Rest in peace and love.
With love, Motown Maurice

 Motown Maurice and Bill Wynn The Great 

Sunday, November 22, 2020

* Car dealership photoshoot :-) 

* Pandemic tennis video shoot 

* Rally For Support - preliminary meeting/testing 

* Watching Spartacus... 


Monday, November 23, 2020

* Productive day...

* Editing Pandemic Tennis video

* Aaron's House stuff, graphic design...

* Returned home...


Tuesday, November 24, 2020

* Tennis...

* Restream testing...


Wednesday, November 25, 2020

* Fighting with Lenovo over my price match refund

* Bumble-bizing, emails...


Thursday, November 26, 2020

* Thanksgiving...

* Remaster: Closed captioning - day 14

* Rewatching Originals


Friday, November 27, 2020

* Tennis 

* Remaster: Closed captioning - day 15


Saturday, November 28, 2020

* Brawlhalla tournament

* Aaron's House stuff...

* Watching Spartacus 


As the quest continues...

The future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Sunday, November 22, 2020

Week 531: Full of Games - Full of Blessings

Weekly Written Review 

What a week! Everything about this week was grand, ultimately landing me on the largest television spot of my quest via The Price Is Right. The recording date was Wednesday, October 7th. I wrote about it on my blog in code. Check it out: Week 525

On Sunday, I called a select group of people to inform them about the episode. They all were excited. Spent the first half of the week remastering my web series then came Thursday. Myself and my two teammates appeared on something special. We've basically started preparing for this day after I shot my episode with The Price is Right. After multiple Sunday Zoom meetings, our day came and ended with a splice of disappointment. We had a great start but we didn't end with the results as anticipated. As we were being escorted out, they told us we have good news. They liked us and we might get invited back for a redemption episode. I immediately thought, "Isn't being on TV twice better than being on TV once?" That's all I'm saying for now. 

Then came Friday. I woke up early to join my parents on the phone as they watched The Price Is Right earlier on the east coast. That's the best part for me, hearing the excitement from my family and friends. I even had a few people record their reactions to the episode for a possible appearance in an upcoming documentary I might produce in the future. For a few hours, I was famous. Text messages, Facebook tags, and Instagram. Well, one person on Instagram but it was priceless. This person saw me on The Price is Right and immediately remembered me for the show Baggage. I did that back in 2011. His words, "holy shit I just saw you on the price is right and recognized you from BAGGAGE!!! your ep was the best ep of that show, you were so funny" I had to question how he remembered me from so long ago. He said, "how could I forget you and mr chill?" His response was more rewarding than my Price Is Right results.  

After all that, I had an amazing day of tennis. Close to 4 hours. As I was leaving I found out, I got approved for a rent subsidy program. Since I've been affected by Covid, I applied for a program to help me take care of my rent. An email finally confirmed my approval putting me in the clear of approximately 10 months. 

Another great note worth mentioning, on Friday, I noticed a IG story post, swiped up, and completed a short 3-page form. I found out about it earlier in the week and I've been looking out for it. If selected, I could get to meet a person I admire. We'll see what happens. 


Sunday, November 15, 2020

* Call people about my TV appearance on Friday

* GAC team meeting via Zoom

* Blogging...

* Remastering/color grading Day 11

* Aaron's House document...


Monday, November 16, 2020

* Remastering/ color grading day 12 - completed season 4

* Emails/bumble biz-ing


Tuesday, November 17,  2020

* Bus to At's for the Covid test for GAC

* Remastering/ color grading day 13 completed season 5 

* ASMR recording. Hopefully, this is my last ASMR video before I move on to my next project. 


Wednesday, November 18, 2020

* Pick up for At's 

* GAC prep. Hair cut. Clothes...


Thursday, November 19, 2020

* GAC appearance. Arrived before 7:30am


Friday, November 20, 2020

* The Price Is Right air day

* Tennis...

* Rent subsidy approval

* IG story post notice/form filled out. 


Saturday, November 21, 2020

* Planning...

* Paid off my laptop and followed up with my price match refund...

* Pick up to At's...

* Watched an episode of The Originals...


As the quest continues...

The future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Sunday, November 15, 2020

Week 530: Remastering Day & Night - Week 2

 Weekly Written Review 

It's an obsession. I left the house on Tuesday to play tennis and I didn't leave again until Friday to also play tennis. That's a basic sense of what my week was and how it will continue to be moving forward for the next few weeks. I'm going through the process. Sound mixing, now color grading, and soon closed captions. This is just the first run through. I'll have to pass through several more times before completion whenever that is. 


Sunday, November 8, 2020

* Watching Blood of Zeus 

* Started watching Spartacus season 2

* GAC team Zoom meeting

* Took today off from remastering...


Monday, November 9, 2020

* Remastering/color grading / day 6

* Completed season 1 of Blood of Zeus

* Made a stop at Food 4 Less... $51.27 in purchases, cash.  No EBT. No Angeleno card. It's going to take some time to get used to this.

* Returned home from the extended weekend at...


Tuesday, November 10, 2020

* Tennis...

* Remasterting/ color grading/ completed season 2/ day 7


Wednesday, November 11, 2020

* Sending out confirmation letters for the upcoming Aaron's House event

* #MaskYourSupport post

* Remastering/ color grading/ day 8


Thursday, November 12, 2020 

 Remastering/ color grading/ completed season 3 / day 9


Friday, November 13, 2020

* Cancelled tennis today because there was no RSVP's but I got a text from someone that noticed and we confirmed singles. Before he showed up on Tuesday last year was the last time we played together. In 2019 he beat me. I flipped the table this time. Wow, 2 out of 3 sets. A total of 14 wins to 7. After I got his text I stayed in my bed but couldn't stop thinking about the adjustments I need to make to my game. I played sucky on Tuesday. Something worked. 


Saturday, November 14, 2020

* Brawlhalla tournament #12

* Replying to emails, Bumble Bizing...


As the quest continues...

The future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Monday, November 9, 2020

Week 529: The Remaster Begins- Week 1

 Weekly Written Review 

Only a few days after receiving my new laptop I started getting this screen flickering problem. It was annoying to the point I contacted customer service. They made things complicated and I settled with a troubleshooting suggestion. That didn't work. Come to find out I'm not the one experiencing similar issues. After reading a few threads on the net, I download Intel's processor home app and turned off something that had to do with power saving and the problem stopped. Thank God! I don't have the patience to deal with returning anything at the moment because my remaster takes priority. 

On Tuesday, I officially embarked on the journey of remastering my web series and so far so good. It's detailed work that requires a lot of time and I'm thankful I'm available to devote myself to the process.  The goal is to submit it by the end of this November and move on to the docuseries remaster.   


Sunday, November 1, 2020

* Voting at Dodges Stadium... doubled up on some free salad wraps upon departure. 

* Blogging...

* GAC team meeting via Zoom...

* Rewatching Spartacus season 1

* Discord post...

* Backing up files... 


Monday, November 2, 2020

* Backing up files...

* New Harddrive arrival... transferring files 

* Bumble biz-ing...

* Aaron's  House planning... creating rundown...

* Blogging...

* Editing testing on Adobe CC


Tuesday, November 3, 2020

* Tennis...

* ISA submission... Autobio...

* Remaster editing day 1... sound...

* More Sparatus season...


Wednesday, November 4, 2020

* Video setup...? 

* Remaster editing day 2... sound

* Aaron's House planning... confirmation letter/draft... 

* More Spartacus...


Thursday, November 5, 2020

* Remaster editing day 3... 1st draft of sound run through completed

* Issues with closed captioning. Solved it hours later. Decided to shift gears to color grading.

* Rewatching The Legend of Korra. 

* More Spartacus...


Friday, November 6, 2020

* No RSVPs for tennis day but what's odd is this is to my memory the first Friday since May with no RSVP's and it's on the same day I RVSP-ed to attend a Webinar - ISA"s Film Financing Film Demystified with Tyler Gould of Bondit Media Capital. It was enlightening 

* Remaster editing day 4 color grading

* Aaron's House planning, more confirmation letter work...

* Bumble Biz-ing...

* I think I completed watching season 1 of Spartacus today. If not today, the day before or after. 


Saturday, November 7, 2020

* Congrats Pres. Elect Joe Biden. Out with Trump! 

* Completed watching Korra today. 

* Started watching Blood of Zeus. It's pretty good. 

* Today I became a PC gamer by the way of Steam and Apex Legends. It's not too bad. I still prefer my Nintendo console but this is a pretty cool change of pace.  

* Remastering/color grading day 5

As the quest continues...

The future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Tuesday, November 3, 2020

Week 528: Double Epiphany! Sitting on a gold mine!!

Weekly Written Review

No one RSVPed for tennis on Tuesday and perhaps it was a good thing. While at home, I had an epiphany about an extension within my web series. With a little research, I realized I also have a docuseries that could potentially be distributed along with my remaster. Before I realized that, I thought about my very first documentary in which I produced in 2005/2006. The only problem is I got to locate the master on a hard drive in Florida. It's on a drive that I haven't used in approximately 15 years. I'm close to 100% confident I didn't delete the files nor that the drive crashed but I can't confirm I can do some testing. The potential is exciting. 


Sunday, October 25, 2020

* Lunch with Maribel at Mario's. Later game time. 

* ASMR recording...


Monday, October 26, 2020

* Walk... Dollar General... picked up a new broom. 

* Aaron's House event development


Tuesday,  October 27, 2020

* Docuseries epiphany. Echoes epiphany. 

* Rental subsidy application process...


Wednesday, October 28, 2020

* Backing up files...

* Landlady subsidy files/application...

* Laptop price match request. Getting over a $300.00 return. 


Thursday, October 29, 2020

* Laptop arrival...

* ASMR recording...

* Tennis with Hogo. I did better than last time but he still has the upper hand. 


Friday, October 30, 2020

* Not my best day of tennis. I complained about playing terrible but finishing was the main problem. 

* Picked up, on the way to At's but I didn't make it. I ended up asking to go home and we tried again successfully the next day. 


Saturday, October 31, 2020

* Week At...

* Brawlhalla tournament...

* Downloading new programs... Adobe CC...


As the quest continues...

The future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Monday, November 2, 2020

Week 527: If you think it, a sale will come

 Weekly Written Review 

I did it. I made the plunge and invested in a new laptop I noticed a sale but I still wondered if the price will go down later for the holidays. I consulted with my "advisor" and she agreed I should take advantage. In addition to the sale, I also had a first-time buyers code. I tried to input the code but it wouldn't work. Immediately, contacted tech text support. They explained that my code won't work with the same. Insisting that I should make the purchase, I hesitated. I told them it's a good price but just above my budget. He put me on hold, return with another representative discount of about 200. I was elated. Plus, he ensured that if the price went down again I can calm a price match. Behold, less than a week later noticed another sale. I wasted no time to call for a price match and I'm now owed just over 300. 

I'm glad made the purchase now. With the goal of completing my remaster before the new year, now is the time to get acclimated to 21-century technology. 


Sunday, October 18, 2020

* Phone calls...

* Overcooked 2 gaming...

* Discord post...


Monday, October 19, 2020

* Editing video... Lulu...

* Filing videos, organizing videos...

* New Ring Fit Adventure approach. As much as I like adventure mode, I decided I don't need to be running in one place at home. I get enough exercise from tennis. I decided I'll to focus on custom arm and stomach exercises. 

* Package came in...

* Blogging...


Tuesday, October 20, 2020

* Full day of tennis. At 12pm for 2 hours and got picked up by Hugo at 6pm for about 3 or more hours. 


Wednesday, October 21, 2020

* Rested most of the day...

* Aaron's House call...

* Background check application for GAC

* OBS research... Zoom testing...


Thursday, October 22, 2020 

* Walking... Dollar General... Panda Express... Numero Uno...

* Today spent all my money on my Angeleno Card. Bye Bye. It was a good run.  

* New computer order. Saw it on sale. One week later it went on sale again and you better believe I followed up for a price match. They owe me a refund of over 300 bones. Pricematch rules. Looking forward to my Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Extreme Gen 3.

* Aaron's House call...


Friday, October 23, 2020

* Tennis... Overtime... I think somebody was salty with me for winning. 

* Ralphs... 


Saturday, October 24, 2020

* Overcooked 2 with a team. Found some people to join the team after recruiting on Sunday.  

* Bumble Biz networking...

* Lazy day... mostly...

* Found out we have possum friends nearby. 


As the quest continues...

The future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Tuesday, October 20, 2020

Week 526: More Tennis... More Power

Weekly Written Review 

I went through a series of weeks with a list of items on my schedule. The days head are slower and I'm glad to be adding more tennis to my plans. When you're enjoying tennis, the best thing to do is schedule another day. Starting this week, I have two tennis days scheduled. I plan to keep that up at least for the remainder of the year. My game is improving. Experiencing and realizing my tennis growth has been nice.

For a while now, I've been contemplating investing in a new computer. I've been doing a lot of research, looking for sales, seeking second opinions. Recently, I decided to wait for Black Friday sales. I want something with enough power to support the upcoming remaster of my web series. Later this week I had an epiphany. With my new computer, I could edit my autobio film, whenever that chance arises. This is a big thought and it makes sense. If you want something done right, you got to do it yourself. In the last 3 feature films that I acted in, the director, Hank Braxton is also the editor. With my upcoming investment, I'll be equipped to complete one of the most important tasks. Of course, there's a lot I can't do but that's why you hire a specialist for special effects.  

On Thursday, I listened in on a virtual webinar entitled, How To Get Your Passion Project Made from the creators of Skywatch, an upcoming show on Peacock. The best part of their story is how the two guys met sharing their filmmaking passions on the soccer field. I love that. That inspired me to change up the wording on my Bumble Biz account. It actually personifies the kind of recreational relationships from video gaming/tennis I want to establish.  

On Saturday, I had a scheduled conversation with someone from Bumble Biz. I often match with people, they become interested in my story and I share. At one point he mentioned that he had a mentor which has become a red flag for e-commerce recruitment. Thankfully, he didn't go into detail. Nonetheless, we talked about my screenplay and my odds about someone else directing my story. He suggested I get hire a co-director and it immediately clicked with me. I don't need someone to reimagine my script. I just need someone to compliment my vision. So it's settled, when the time comes, I'll hiring a co-director. 

Just like that, I'm thinking about my autobio again. There's a lot of promise in the air. Promise that I don't want to mention at the moment. Lately, I've even been receiving emails aligned with information on how to raise money. 

In and all, this is no climate to be shooting a feature film. America is heading toward the third wave of the pandemic. Thank God, I didn't begin production at the start of this year. Ideally, I hope to be ready by summer 2021. 


Sunday, October 11, 2020

* The first Sunday Special. Wide aWoke gaming. Playing Rocket League.

* Discord server updating...

* NBA finals. Go Lakers! 

* Blogging...

* Rewatching season 1 of Spartacus 


Monday, October 12, 2020

* Ring Fit Adventure workout...

* More Spartacus...

* Garage return...


Tuesday, October 13, 2020

* Scheduled a new day for tennis. Afternoon Tennis Warriors. 

* Relaxed for the rest of the day...


Wednesday, October 14, 2020

* Emails... Bumble Biz... Gaming... Relaxing...


Thursday, October 15, 2020

* Walking... Dollar Tree... Food 4 Less

* Upon leaving the Dollar Tree I saw a dog digging through crash for food. I went back into the Dollar Tree for food but the line was too long. I ended up getting dog food from a store a few blocks down. By the time I got back, the little dog was feasting on leftover chicken. He was not interested in dried dog food. I got a can of dog food from Food 4 Less but he was long gone on my way back. 

* ISA virtual webinar. How to get your passion project made. 

* Recommendation writing, Tosha...


Friday, October 16, 2020

* Tennis...


Saturday, October 17, 2020

* Bumble Biz call with TJ. Inspiring word from the conversation, "co-director."

* Brawlhalla Tournament...


As the quest continues...

The future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Monday, October 19, 2020

Week 525: Feeling Good Like I Should

Weekly Written Review 

Allow me to share a little bit about my Wednesday. First of all, I woke up with this song in my head, 
"Feeling Good Like I Should". I literally woke up reciting the lyrics. I found that to be a little odd because at the time I couldn't recall how I knew the song. Yes, I'm sure I heard it before but I couldn't figure out where. Not until Saturday did I realize my connection with it. It's a song that At... sometimes plays. Furthermore, I went about my day embracing the song's positive message. By the time I reached my destination, I looked up the song (for the first time) on Youtube and learned the chorus. "Feeling Blessed, never stressed. Got the sunshine on my Sunday best."

I arrived at my destination over 45mins early. I used the extra time to enjoy myself and boost my energy. Singing the chorus and dancing a little on the sidewalk. My assignment time was 10:30am. I decided to attempt entering 10 mins before 10am. I tried but wasn't allowed because I was too early. I was also informed that I wouldn't be allowed in with my backpack. I should've read the email in full detail. A long time ago knew about that policy but it's been a good while since I've been to this location. I don't have a car to put it in so I had to go across the street and pay $5.00 to store it. The idea of unnecessarily spending money is disappointing but I didn't allow this one negative to outweigh the positives of what my day could offer. 

When I arrived back at the gate, a couple others were also waiting. Soon the let us in to fill out paperwork and receive our briefing. Later we were escorted in a line and seated to wait. Moments later we were preinterviewed by an important person that could decide our fate during the process. Basically, they were checking to make sure we had the same energy from our previous Skype interview. I did my part and was surprised to get an applause from everyone around me when I mentioned my occupation with Aaron's House. The producer/interviewer also showed love for my name which is always a plus. 

After that process, we were escorted to another area where we waited some more. This was our restroom break area. After using the restroom I engaged in my first meaning meaningful conversation upon arriving. At the time I didn't her name but I did hear her sharing her unique deliberate story with others and during her interview. We spoke about our upcoming experience and she shared a bit about her teaching aboard aspirations and her acting endeavors. She noticed my sneakers and complimented them  It was my first time wearing my Africa's sneakers. She thought my shoes represented my country and she brought to my attention it's Kenyan colors. It was a pleasant conversation without a formal introduction of names. 

Another restroom break later and we were guided into the studio for more instructions. Big energy is key. After that, myself and two ladies were brought into a side room away from the stage and a TV monitor. That room did not seem like a promising place to be. A few others got mic-ed all to do was to sit and observe the monitor. Approximately 16 of us were preselected but not all of us will achieve the full opportunity. During the first commercial break, I realized my full potential is in reach. Myself and at least one other lady in that room was called to be mic-ed up. A mic pretty much guarantees our name will be called but it doesn't guarantee success.  

One person in front of me got her name called and I'm now one step closer. After the next commercial break, they announced my name. 0Energetically I entered, did my silly dance and placed myself at the podium. A quick banter with the host about my name and it was time to guess a number. They showed a visual time and 375 came out of my mouth. I wanted to say 275 but I went up 100 at the last moment. The 3 others at the podium guessed significantly higher. This moment was fast and quickly enough the host revealed I had the closest bid. In shock I ran away from the podium did a little dance and now I've entered a coveted next level. There may have been more banter after that but I don't remember. What I do remember is the host revealing something big. Pretty much the holy grail of big for this situation. All I had to do was make a few accurate guesses. 

From this point, a lot is blurred. I think there was a hiccup/restart with production which allowed Jade the young lady that I spoke to before going in the studio to yell and gesture toward. She was at the podium. She emphasized, "Motown, I know this. Trust me." Now, I'm in a position to make guesses with a least 2 to 3 people in a mostly empty room encouraging my decisions. Honestly, apart of me wanted to avoid Jade and the others and make the decision on my own. All I had to do was not choose the correct number for the corresponding item. I made one or two confident choices on my own but the cheers from Jade and the very small crowd got louder and louder, so did their confidence. 

Now, I've got to decide between my judgment or Jade's endearing shouts. I was just living in the moment. There wasn't much time to think. I had no clue what the answer was and I certainly wasn't as confident as Jade so when it came down to my last choice, I said to myself, "what the hell." I went with Jade's reverberant echoes and behold, it was the right answer. I couldn't believe it to the point that my legs started to wobble. I succeed with what most people might consider as an ultimate prize. I did more dancing and embraced my new treasure. 

On the way back to the holding area I was treated with a multitude of congrats and I certainly made sure I acknowledged Jade. I later got her contact info for us to connect. Honestly, if it wasn't for her, I probably would of choose the wrong answer. I'm so glad I listened. In my mind, I thought our conversation prior to entering played a role in her drive to help me but she said that she studied with queue cards the night before and she would've helped any of us. 

A little more waiting and the show wasn't over for me. I had another chance at glory but after two attempts my luck was spin dry. That dampened my spirits a little because I wanted a chance at the full experience but at the same time I still came out on top. Plus, I'm very happy for those that did achieve the full experience and did not leave empty-handed. I left with far from empty, they're actually glittered with gold.

I watched the remaining for the show on the monitor and it was soon time for us all to go. Myself and 5 others were debriefed Then myself and two others got a special debriefing. Then we went into an office to sign paperwork that concluded our experience. As I was leaving, someone from a distance shouted, "Congratulations, you were so fun to watch." That comment alone was just as big as the prize I won. I went across the street to fetch my backpack and they asked the ultimate question. Since I'm not allowed to answer, they got the answer they were looking for based on what I was holding.  

Update: 10/18/20. I forgot to mention. I recall having a moment of deja vu when I returned to the waiting room. Something including the number 10. I'm not sure. It just seemed like it for a moment. 


Sunday, October 4, 2020

* Covid test for Wednesday...

* Laker game. They lost :-(

* Rewatching Korra and The Originals...


Monday, October 5, 2020

* ASMR scheduling, editing, uploading...

* Rewatching Korra and The Originals...


Tuesday, October 6, 2020

* 1st ASMR video premiere...

* Call about a GS/MM

* Trailer for Dragon Soldiers dropped. 


Wednesday, October 7, 2020

* TPIR shoot

* Team rehearsal...


Thursday, October 8, 2020

* ASMR video drop...

* Skype team interview for GAC

* Playing Pikmin demo for the first time ever...

* Rewatching The Originals...


Friday, October 9, 2020

* Tennis...

* NBA finals. Lakers Lost. 


Saturday, October 10, 2020

* Ross for new tennis shoes, Sprouts, Trader Joes...

* Watching The Boys and Underworld...


As the quest continues...

The future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Sunday, October 11, 2020

Week 524: Virtual Affairs

Weekly Written Review

As Covid-19 continues to threaten mankind, technology has become our greatest ally. I'm perhaps networking now more than I was before Covid. Bumble Biz has become my daily assignment. I swipe, connect, and chat. Sometimes it leads to a Zoom call. Most of those calls are people trying to introduce me to their "mentor" or get in involved with E-commerce. Hopefully, I'll be better at filtering them out in the future. No major connections with anyone yet but I believe I'm planting seeds. Chats are nurturing. Aside from that, over the past few weeks, I've filled out my share of... applications and conducted a few Skype interviews. The world of auditions is gloriously obsolete but I'm beginning to reconnect with a whole new world. A world not forgotten but slightly familiar with.


Sunday, September 27, 2020

* Zoom meeting with someone from Bumble Biz

* Virtual networking event for writers...

* NBA playoff...

* ASMR recording...


Monday, September 28, 2020

* Salmon at Kevin's House. He kind of offered me a job but...

* Blogging...


Tuesday, September 29, 2020

* Fight watch at At... aka presidential debate...

* Gaming...


Wednesday, September 30, 2020

* Application for a GS...

* Call for a GS... interview...???

*TPIR study...


Thursday, October 1, 2020

* Garage return...

* Virtual Ring Fit with At...

* ASMR recording...

* Capture card testing...


Friday, October 2, 2020

* Tennis...

* Laker game. They won. Yeah! 


Saturday, October 3, 2020

* Brawhalla tournament...

* Team GS interview for CR. It did not go well. 


As the quest continues...

The future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Week 523: Anxiously Waiting To Have you...!

 Weekly Written Review 

In week 521, I received a text message stating, "We have you on file for this game show... would you like to interview..." I haven't applied for a game show in a very long time. That application is probably near as long as my duration in LA. Nonetheless, I got nothing to lose. I agreed and the following Monday I had a Skype interview. I believe it went well. Early this week I got an email that seemed positive but they mainly requested that I fill out a new application. On Thursday night I got a text confirming my booking. It was around 11:30pm. The text stated, "Come on down. We are anxiously waiting to have you..." I texted back and they called me and shared more details. It's very rare for casting to reach out that late at night. Now, I'm set to be on their show on October 7th. It's crazy and quite amazing because they had me file from so long ago. More than likely, the only reason want me now is because of the Covid situation. They can't have an audience, so they're reaching deep into archives to make the show happen in a controlled way. Either way, I'm taking it with stride. We'll see what happens. 


Sunday, September 20, 2020

* Brushing off my videography skills by helping Kevin at a birthday event...


Monday, September 21, 2020

* Rewatching The Legend of Korra and The Originals...

* Editing...

* Research of a potential new Youtube series...


Tuesday, September 22, 2020

* Garage return...

* Food 4 Less stop...

* Laker game. They lost...

* Lazy day... gaming...


Wednesday, September 23, 2020

* 1st ASMR recording...


Thursday, September 24, 2020

* 2nd ASMR recording...

* Text and phone call confirming TPIR appearance...

* Virtual Ring Fit with At...


Friday, September 25, 2020

* Tennis...

* Gaming...


Saturday, September 26, 2020

* Gaming... slow day...


As the quest continues...

The future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Monday, September 28, 2020

Week 522: Celebrating One DECADE in LA - RIP Tarik Jackson

 Weekly Written Review

September 19th made 10 years since I arrived in LA. It is indeed a great accomplishment and you know what they say about 10 years, right? You don't know? Well, they say, "It takes 10 years to become an overnight success." Hint Hint! Wink Wink! It's obvious my time is now. 

My journey is long, much longer than expected and I'm okay with that. The main downfall of being apart of a long journey is the lives that are lost along the way. While casually browsing Facebook on Friday and was alerted very unfortunate news about Tarik Jackson. Shortly afterward I posted on his page. 

I'm confused, shocked, and devasted. This news doesn't make any sense. Tarik had so much to live for. He was an inspiration. We met during the American Black Flim Festival on Sat, June 27, 2009 in Miami, FL. Years later we unexpectedly crossed paths in LA at the Roosevelt Hotel. In 2013, he screened his film at my film festival. Often times when he got word of an opportunity in late-night television he sent me the link. In May, I was so happy to know he was selected for HBO's Access Directing Fellowship. Not long after, I was a finalist in BET's Project Cre8TV contest. We praised each other and chatted about the possibility of him directing one of my projects in the future. Now, all hope is gone. I don't understand why this happened and it hurts my heart.
Tarik Jackson
I wish I could go back in time be there for you. From this day forward, my fight is your fight. I love you brother. My sincerest condolences to Tarik's family.

Motown Maurice and Tarik Jackson at The American Black Film Festival, Miami, FL 2009
Motown Maurice and Tarik Jackson at The American Black Film Festival, Miami, FL 2009

Motown Maurice and Tarik Jackson at The QuarterlyWrap Festival, Downtown LA, 2013

Rest In Love Tarik Jackson


Sunday, September 13, 2020

* Hair cut...

* Virtual table read "Boys" with Michael Klug

* Editing 36 Reasons video

* Rewatching Korra and watching Pose...


Monday, September 14, 2020

* 1pm Skype GS interview for TPIR

* Rewatching and Korra

* Editing...

* Just Dance...

* Bumble Biz video chat with...


Tuesday, September 15, 2020

* Photoshoot of my new blog photo...

* Blogging...


Wednesday, September 16, 2020

* Blog banner editing...

* Garage return... I got a new table. At least I'm borrowing a new table. 

* Studio set up/planning...

* Blog photo editing...


Thursday, September 17, 2020

* Phone call with Tatiana

* Walk to the Asian supermarket. No mangos. Picked up some plums. 

* Webcam/audio testing

* Virtual Ring Fit with Atarah 

* Ordered Super Mario 3D Allstars and WWE 2k Battlegrounds with my make it rain beach money. 


Friday, September 18, 2020

* Tennis...

* RIP Tarik Jackson...

* Watching Jurassic World Camp Cretaceous. I believed I also watched Korra and The Boys...


Saturday, September 19, 2020

* Brawhalla tournament

* Blog update - celebrating 10-years in LA. 

* Rewatching Korra. Another Jurassic World Camp episode. Rewatching The Originals. 

* WWE 2k Battlegrounds arrived. Drove to pick it up. 


As the quest continues...

The future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Tuesday, September 15, 2020

Week 521: Upgraded Research

Weekly Written Review 

As I get ready to embark on a journey to remaster my web series, an upgrade will be necessary. I've been thinking about treating myself to a new computer for a while now but as soon as I realized the easiest to add closed captioning/subtitles to my web series remaster is with Adobe CC, that confirmed it's time to upgrade. I'm not even using Windows 10 yet. I had a chance to upgrade from 8.0 to Windows 10 when the offer was free but I declined. I didn't trust it. I didn't want to take the chance of losing anything files or programs. Needless to say, now is the time for an upgrade. Get ready! Get Set. Go! Pause! I'm probably going to wait for a black Friday/holiday sale. We'll see. 


Sunday, September 6, 2020

* Ring Fit with Rh...

* Phone calls...

* At pick up. Store/rice purchase...

* Completed watching season 1 of Wizards... 


Monday, September 7, 2020

* Equipment testing/audio...

* Watching season 2 of The Boys...

* Rewatching The Legend of Korra... 


Tuesday, September 8, 2020

* Zoom Filmhub meeting...

* CLN ISA submission...

* Audio testing...

* Rewatching The Legend of Korra...


Wednesday, September 9, 2020

* Bumble Biz call with Nwahil...

* Game show Skype interview with Atarah...

* Closed Caption research...

* Rewatching The Legend of Korra...

* Downloaded Steam...


Thursday, September 10, 2020

* Unexpected text and phone call that lead to an interview for Monday. 

* Blogging...

* Rewatching The Legend of Korra...

* Watching the Laker game. They won! 

* Sprouts run...


Friday, September 11, 2020

* Tennis... I hit my nose with my racquet today. It hurt really bad.

* Youtube commercial video editing...


Saturday, September 12, 2020

* Youtube commercial video editing...

* Beach day with Angel. A guy was making it rain money at the beach. I scooped up 140. 

* Rewatching The Legend of Korra (I think I watched today).

* Watching Netflix's Project Power...


As the quest continues...

The future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Friday, September 11, 2020

Week 520: A Seed Was Planted

Weekly Written Review

Building upon a few ideas for one of my Youtube channels, I ordered some equipment not realizing my new ring light was going to arrive less an hour before a scheduled photo-shoot. It must have been God because that light was a difference-maker. 

I'm retired from the world of seeking auditions but if someone else wants to seek opportunities for both of us, I'm all for it. That's exactly what's happening. The photo-shoot was magical with a lot of great potential to open up commercial doors.

Here's the back story with this person. She reached out to me in 2018 on Facebook just to say hi. We were in an acting class together a long time ago. Honestly, I don't remember her from the class.  I joined SAG in 2018 and I was inviting people to attend free movie screening with me. I invited her, we went to a movie and that was the last time we saw each other until Wednesday. Last week she reached out and proposed an idea and here we are. She was trying to collab with someone but that fell through and I came to mind. We'll see where this goes but I do know we planted in 2018 which is why this is possible today. 


Sunday, August 30, 2020

* Virtual Ring Fit with Atarah

* Equipment research

* Food 4 Less/Panda Express. Bike riding. It's good to be riding it again. 


Monday, August 31, 2020

* Call with Angel

* Walk for bread

* Equipment ordered for Youtube Project

* Zoom call with Kristin from Bumble Biz


Tuesday, September 1, 2020

* Was hoping to play soccer but it got canceled. 

* Video chat with Nehemiah

* Final edits and Youtube channel commercial upload

* Planning...


Wednesday, September 2, 2020

* Ordered a light ring on Monday and it came before my photoshoot today. I didn't order it for the shoot and it basically made the shoot. How serendipitous!

* Pick up for my photoshoot

* Virtual Read for We Make Movies


Thursday, September 3, 2020

* Blogging...

* Distribution research...


Friday, September 4, 2020

* Tennis...


Saturday, September 5, 2020

* Visitor/tournament participant. 

* Brawhalla tournament. It was tough. 3 ladies conspired against me and I was helpless. They literally wouldn't hit each other, only attacking me. Their plan forced a 3-way 2 win tie. I thought I was going to lose. For some reason, they drifted from their gameplan in the last round opening up a chance for a  steal. Honestly, I got lucky but I'm glad to be the champ again. 


As the quest continues...

The future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Friday, September 4, 2020

Week 519: Journey to Distribution and Youtube Ideas

Weekly Written Review 

After over a year of writing, I'm done. Rewrites are forever but I'm certainly done with writing new ideas. As a result, my mind is free and anew. An inquiry about my web series transformed my perception of it. I'm not expecting an outcome from that inquiry but I'm thankful for new vision. Now, I'm remastering my series and taking on a path to self-distribution. Overall, I got a lot of greatness in the oven but the challenge is figuring out how to promote it. Social Media (Instagram, Facebook, Twitter) is always an option but it's not my style. Youtube is a tool that I've never fully embraced. Yes, I have a successful web series on youtube but I'm never produced consistent short-form videos. That's about to change. Lately, my mind has been pounding with new ideas. After writing a bunch of long-form scripts, I'm ready for short-form creativity. I spent Saturday night researching equipment, lights, microphone, webcam, etc... It's about to go down. In hindsight, I probably should've bought a proper light a long time ago to improve the quality of my audition videos but that reveals where my passion lies. My passion will always be and have been 100% in my own projects. 


Sunday, August 23, 2020

* C&B revisions

* Watching Wizards. Rewatching The Legend of Kora. 


Monday, August 24, 2020

* Last revisions for C&B and sent to our producer contact...

* Package delivery issue. Had to make a quick stop at the garage. 

* Post office, CVS...

* Watching Wizards. Rewatching the Legend of Kora. 


Tuesday, August 25, 2020

* Zoom meeting with Jason...

* LNExp remastering/rendering...

* Rewatching Kora...


Wednesday, August 26, 2020

* Remastering, rendering, and uploading LNExp. Also submitted it to my contact. 

* Watching Wizards. Rewatching The Legend of Kora.


Thursday, August 27, 2020

* Blogging...

* Ring Fitness workout...

* Returned to my garage...


Friday, August 28, 2020

* Tennis...


Saturday, August 29, 2020

* Youtube channel commercial editing. 

* Channel planning... new ideas...


As the quest continues...

The future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Thursday, August 27, 2020

Week 518: A Future of Producing and Acting

Weekly Written Review 

The plan is to focus my energies on acting and producing in 2021. Is that too much to ask for? Winding down to the last phase of script revisions got me thinking a lot about that. In other news, in an unexpected turn of events, my web series is in the process of being considered for a major streaming platform. That's great news. I don't have any expectations, most of all, I appreciate the consideration. Best of all, this engagement has allowed me to reenvision my series in a way I've thought of. Disappointment may be looming but new vision is the greater reward.


Sunday, August 16, 2020

* C&B Revisions/rewrite via Teamview with Atarah

* Virtual Ring Fit Adventure with Atarah

* Reached out to Dayo

* Started watching Pacific Rim
 

Monday, August 17, 2020

* Mad hot day

* Walking... Numero Uno fruit pick up...


Tuesday, August 18, 2020

* Hot! Had to pull out the fan later in the night to help stop itching. It helped. 

* Bumble Biz networking...

* Watching Lakers VS Trail Blazers, playoffs game 1. Lakers lost! :-(


Wednesday, August 19, 2020

* C&B Revisions/rewrite via Teamview with Atarah

* Bumble Biz phone call with Zaheed

* H, F script revisions. Finished. 


Thursday, August 20, 2020

* Phone call day...

* Bumble Biz phone call with Jason... 

* S.S chat with D Lamone...

* Got some interesting news about my web serious. The simple life is over. I got work to do. 


Friday, August 21, 2020

* Tennis. Stayed overtime for the first time. It was good.

* Blogging...

* Pick up to At's

* C&B Revisions/rewrite...


Saturday, August 22, 2020

* Brawlhalla tournament. Lost for a second time. Big ups to Impulse. 

* C&B rewrite...

* Watching Wizards. Rewatching The Legend of Kora


As the quest continues...

The future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Friday, August 21, 2020

Week 517: Walks and Revisions

Weekly Written Review 

With a recent decision not to develop any more new ideas, I became a free man, mentally. This allows me to enjoy the finer things in life such as walking, watching movies/shows, gaming, and watching streamers play Fall Guys on Youtube. Why isn't that game on Switch yet? I need it in my life. Moreover, It's revision time. It's time to revise my old ideas. C&B is the current focus. Twice a week, at least a couple hours each session virtually with my writing partner. Slowly but surely we're putting in work. 

This life is simple but effective. I haven't had simple in a long time. This is a very needed period. Let's see how long that lasts.  


Sunday, August 9, 2020

* Gaming...

* Backing up important files

* Watching Netflix's Transformers anime

* Watching Transformers 5 - The Last Knight


Monday, August 10, 2020

* H, F script editing...

* Submitted CB to an ISA TV show opportunity

* Walk... bank, Ralph's

* Gaming...


Tuesday, August 11, 2020

* Phone call with Keto for the S.S...

* Gaming...

* Today I cut a tomato in the kitchen! 

* Watching Fantastic 4 (2015). Don't waste your time. It was terrible.


Wednesday, August 12, 2020

* Gaming: SMM2, Rouge Company, Realm Royal and Youtube Watching a lot of Fall Guys... 

* C&B Revisions/Rewrite via Teamview with Atarah


Thursday, August 13, 2020

* Walking... Food 4 Less...

* Ring Fit Adventure...

* Gaming...


Friday, August 14, 2020

* C&B Revisions/Rewrite via Teamview with Atarah

* Tennis...

* Netflix disappointment email (CLN)

* Reconciliation with At... 


Saturday, August 15, 2020

* Woke up Motivated. No Netflix no problem. Decided not to submit any other scripts to Netflix's project Impact contest.

* Virtual fitness session with LuLu...

* Gaming. Brawlhalla with Grace and LuLu...


As the quest continues...

The future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Saturday, August 8, 2020

Week 516: Tempered Expectations

Weekly Written Review

An incident last Saturday (Week 515) took a toll on my spirits. I spent most of this week sleeping, a lot. Probably averaging way over 10 hours a day. Waking up, eating, and going back to sleep. Checking my email and sleeping again. It seemed like my spirits were healing on Thursday when I finally got some work completed. Then on Friday, someone dropped the hammer on my forehead crippling my spirits more. 

Since early June, I've been a top 10 finalist for BET's Project CRE8 TV pilot contest. The top 5 is supposed to be announced any day now. Placing in the top 30 out of 700 is a hopeful place to be. In addition to that, my idea is amazing. Thus, I have a lackluster history with competitions. I often get really close and nothing happens. Yet, I refuse to allow those disappointments to define me. I'm expecting parallels of greatness... right? 

Furthermore, through a Facebook group for writers, I made contact with another finalist, which is cool. A few weeks ago he asked if I heard anything. I also heard nothing. We agreed that the contest is delayed because of the pandemic. Then on Friday, he asked if I  was contacted about a background check, essentially indicating my fate with this contest. The background check is the holy grail for selected contestants and I'm clearly not included. I got his message while playing tennis and it made me want to stuff my face inside a pillow but I kept playing. I had no desire to cry but something inside of me certainly went spoiled rotten. 

I congratulated the guy and decided to start tempering some expectations. I contacted someone that helped me with the pilot and their one-word response surely didn't make it any better, ("noted"). I'll probably contact at least two more people to temper their expectations soon. 

None of this helps with my already damaged spirit but on the bright side, BET is now apart of my collection of disappointments. I'm confident there will be many to add to my collection in the near future. Hooray! 

Edit (8/9/20): Thursday morning or possibly Friday morning, I remember having a dream revealing disappointment with the BET contest. It was an unpleasant sensation waking up to that thought. I don't remember the details but I remember not liking it.  


Sunday, August 2, 2020

* Lazy day/Gaming/sleeping/low spirits...

* Watching Netflix's Transformers...


Monday, August 3, 2020

* Not long after waking up I got an idea for a network. Far fetched but hey...

* Walk/Panada Express pick up

* Low spirits...


Tuesday, August 4, 2020

* Reviewing footage for my documentary idea...

* Watching Netflix's Transformers...

* Low spirits...


Wednesday, August 5, 2020

* Low spirits/over 10 hours of sleeping/doc vlog...

* Walking/Food 4 Less/ATM...


Thursday, August 6, 2020

* Spirits, a little better...

* H, F description work...


Friday, August 7, 2020

* Tennis...

* FB from a potential contest top 5 (background check)...

* Lowered spirits...

* Watching Netflix's Transformers...


Saturday, August 8, 2020

* Low spirits...

* Mario Kart with online gamers...

* Blogging...


As the quest continues...

The future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Week 515: Spirit Killer

Weekly Written Review 

When I completed the first draft of my second TV pilot this week, it was if the weight of 1,000 horses lifted from my shoulders. Not long afterward, I began playing music for the first time in a while. I have plenty of rewrites ahead but I have no plans to write anything new. My soul was set free. Then on Saturday, a petty argument killed my spirits, lingering into next week. Without getting into those details, my energies have been spread out more than usual lately. Earlier in the week, I volunteered to produce a marketing video for an organization I recently got involved with (aka CTF). The making of that video was draining, reminding me why I retired from that line of business. I often go beyond the call of duty and there's never enough energy reciprocated. On top of that, the argument didn't make it better. My spirits are now in recovery.


Sunday, July 26, 2020

* Gaming...

* Completed rewatching The Avatar...

* Drafting H, F...

* C&B rewrites/revisions...


Monday, July 27, 2020

* C&B rewrites/revisions...

* Pickups at a beauty shop...

* Blogging...


Tuesday, July 28, 2020

* H, F writing (15 pages)

* Ring Fit workout


Wednesday, July 29, 2020

* Phone call with Tehana

* Walk with Kei

* A little writing


Thursday, July 30, 2020

* Walk... Food 4 Less run

* Completed 1st draft of H, F (27 pages) 


Friday, July 31, 2020

* Tennis 

* At's


Saturday, August 1, 2020

* CTF...writing, voiceover, editing...

* H, F reread...

* Argument...  spirit killer...


As the quest continues...

The future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Tuesday, July 28, 2020

Week 514: Silver and Gold

Weekly Written Review 

Silver and Gold, I've rather have Jesus than silver and gold. That's a classic. I grew up singing that song in church. Now, that I own some silver, does that make me a hypocrite? 

This week I made a decision to step away from writing after I'm done with my current pilot. Of course,  still have rewrites and smaller projects to produce. This plan is in effort of setting a performance-focused 2021. 
 

Sunday, July 19, 2020

* Silver research... buy... 

* C&B writing revisions/rewrites...

* Rewatching Avatar The Last Airbender. 
 

Monday, July 20, 2020

* Nintendo Direct mini... disappointing. 

* 4pm Sou Sou Zoom meeting

* (H, F) developing...

* C&B writing revisions/rewrites...

* Rewatching Avatar The Last Airbender. 


Tuesday, July 21, 2020

* Over the weekend someone on Linkedin contacted me about writing training video. The pay sounded too good to be true. My research proved it wasn't a scam. That lead to a phone interview today. It went well but I'm far from sure if they want to hire me.  

* Discord planning...

* Rewatching Avatar The Last Airbender. 

* Returned home...


Wednesday, July 22, 2020

* (H, F) developing...

* RAD declined from a free screenplay contest...

* Discord planning...


Thursday, July 23, 2020

* After a month and days, I finally got a shipment of African sneakers I ordered. 

* Pick up... at At...


Friday, July 24, 2020

* Cedars drop off...

* Tennis


Saturday, July 25, 2020

* Mario Tennis Tournament... Lost first round. 

* Brawhalla Tourney. I lost for the first time. 


As the quest continues...

The future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Thursday, July 23, 2020

Week 513: Overqualified Once Again

Weekly Written Review 

On July 14, 2010, Oprah's camp emailed me their decline from her Your Own Show Contest. Later, I realized why I wasn't accepted. I was overqualified. Simply put, they choose inexperienced people for their reality talk show contest. 10 years later, on the morning of July 16, 2020, I was pending the results of a virtual pitch festival submission. I submitted my autobio screenplay (about what took place in 2010). Via email, I received an Honorable Mention. Not 1st - 4th place or finalist. I was meh about it. It would have been nice to win for a change even though I know winning means nothing. My pitch is really strong so I expected the best results. 

Later in the day, the winners presented their pitches in a live Zoom event. I attended via cell phone. At the conclusion of the event, I wasn't impressed. Not because I didn't win. Winning means nothing and it doesn't confirm that a script will get sold or made. I wasn't impressed because the presentations didn't impress me. 

The reality of why I wasn't selected is because I was overqualified once again. Let me clarify. Ideas are subjective and a script with an African-American male lead presented as a hero is not a reality some judges can imagine. Instead, they chose pitches that included slavery and sex. 

I'm sincerely happy for the winners because that's their moment. I've even reached out to one of the winners to extend my congrats. I want nothing but the best for them. 

This experience reaffirms the type of resistance I'm up against. Not only am I fighting to get my story told, but I'm also fighting to change the narrative and expand the scope of the world's limited point of view.
 

Sunday, July 12, 2020
 
* C&B Revisions/rewrites..

* Gaming...


Monday, July 13, 2020

* Preparing for my next pilot, codenamed, "R" for now. It changes later. TV pilot template. 

* Nintendo delivered my new/fixed joycon... 

* 24 dollar settle check game in. I'm rich. lol. 


Tuesday, July 14, 2020

* Miserable day because I couldn't find lets for my script...

* Message to writing partner... change...


Wednesday, July 15, 2020

* Happy Bday MaTown...

* Walking, talking, post-office, second joycon drop off...

* Renaming my pilot script from "R" to... starting to finally get some ideas flowing. I'll see where it takes me. 


Thursday, July 16, 2020

* I didn't place in ISA's Virtual Pitch Contest but they gave me an Honorable Mention. I guess that's better than nothing. 

* ISA's Virtual Pitch Event...


Friday, July 17, 2020

* Tennis...

* Brawlhalla tourney. I wow again. 4-time champ. 


Saturday, July 18, 2020

* My new script R changed to (H, F). Description development.

* Video chat/game time with LuLu. Ring Fit Adventure...

* Sprouts run...

* Rewatching The Avatar The Last Airbender... 

* Furthering an interesting Linkedin connection...


As the quest continues...

The future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Thursday, July 16, 2020

Week 512: Pitch Season

Weekly Written Review 

It's beginning to look a lot like pitch season. Between this week and last week, I sent out 2 pitch videos for my screenplays. In the summer of 2010, I was basically pitching my late-night show. Those pitches didn't work out. Let's wait and see the results, 10 years later. To be continued, as the quest continues. 


Sunday, July 5, 2020

* CLN rewrite/revisions. From around 12:42pm to 11:42pm. Approximately 30 hours invested in the script, pitch video, and application. At the start of the rewrite, we had 109 pages. We ended on 88. #proud 

* Pitch video

* Rewatching The Avatar The Last Airbender


Monday, July 6, 2020

* ISA virtual Pitch Challenge video and submission

* Computer stuff...

* Rewatching The Avatar The Last Airbender


Tuesday, July 7, 2020

* Blogging, gaming...


Wednesday, July 8, 2020

* Stocks...

* Gaming...

* Logging Parallel Decade footage


Thursday, July 9, 2020

* Logging footages...

* Ring Fit Adventure workout


Friday, July 10, 2020

* Tennis...

* ISA Lawyer Up webinar

* Follow up email from Netflix Animation. Clarity and a release in regards to their previous email

* Ring Fit with Lulu


Saturday, July 11, 2020

* CTW pilot writing seminar with Ben Axelrad

* Rewatching The Avatar The Last Airbender


As the quest continues...

The future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Tuesday, July 7, 2020

Week 511: Parallel Decade

Weekly Written Review 

This week I had a mind-opening epiphany. I'm in a parallel decade. There is a stark contrast and unique comparisons between 2010 and 2020.

2010: January 23rd, The Motown Maurice Show premiered 

2020: January 25th, The Motown Maurice Show had a 10-year reunion

2010: Financial debt. 

2020: Abundance 

2010: April, I moved out of my apartment and spent 6 months in a condo. 

2020: March, I took a break from my garage for 3 months. Escaped at my writing partner's place. 

2010: Briefly, reconnected with my first girlfriend then cut her off. 

2020: Reconnected with her (Nov 2019 for the first time since 2010) and cut her off 6 months later. 

2010: Entered into the world of auditions/pitching/craigslist. 

2020: Entered into the world stocks and investments and screenplay pitching. 

2010: Submitted to Oprah's Your Own Show Contest and became a running finalist. 

2020: Submitted to BET's Project CRE8 Contest and became a top 30 finalist. 

2010: Submitted my late-night talk show demo/reel for hosting opportunities.   

2020: Submitting my screenplays for multiple opportunities.

2010: Reunited with my love for basketball.

2020: Reunited with my love-hate relationship with running.

2010: Started a beard protest

2020: Goatee protest

2010: Uploading episodes of my late-night talk show on Youtube 

2020: Uploading commercials for my youtube channel. 

2010: Deep state of depression   

2020: Deep state of joy

Less than a week after noticing I'm in a parallel decade, I realized I got the material for an interesting documentary.

Update: 7/8/20

2010: Spiritually empty/depression

2020: Spiritually full

2010:  Ended my relationship with credit cards

2020: Reunited with credit cards... reluctantly. (I'm still anti-credit card, I did it for the rewards)


Sunday, June 28, 2020

* Shooting 5 Youtube commercials

* Watching The Avatar The Last Airbender

* Brawlhalla tournament. I won again.


Monday, June 29, 2020

* Meeting with Kathrine (C&B)...

* Commerical pick-up shots

* Using my EBT card for the last time. It's the end of an era.


Tuesday, June 30, 2020

* Walk, UPS Joycon drop off...

* Commerical editing...

* Autobio rewrite. Down to 122 pages. Started the rewrite last week.


Wednesday, July 1, 2020

* Autobio rewrite. Down to 118 pages.

* Surprise email from Netflix... 

*The Late Night Experiment commercial uploads (2).


Thursday, July 2, 2020

* Autobio rewrite. Completed at 115 pages from 128.

* Blogging...

* A few weeks ago I found out about Netflix's Imagine Impact contest. They have four categories. The first one is Action-Adventure. I made sure to follow them for upcoming genre announcements. Today, while relaxing from the long rewrite of my autobio, I followed up on some Facebook messages. My lovely colleague Bernadette G, who has been looking out for me throughout the pandemic, send me a message two days ago. It had two links. One was about an acting opportunity. I wasn't interested in that. The other was for Netflix's Imagine Impact. I thanked her and told her I already knew about Impact. 

I decided to dive back into research because I haven't heard any updates recently. Then I an epiphany, yes, another. Early this week Netflix directly reached out to me (via Connect The Writers) and asked about my animation script. I sent then my logline and disappointingly, they didn't request it because they said the had something similar in development. I didn't like that because my animation is probably my favorite script. Back to Imagine Impact, while browsing through the application process, I saw some prompts that made me realize the origin of my script. The idea for CLN was originally a live-action mixed with CGI. Later, I contacted my writing partner and told her, "lets shift back." She agreed!

This is where disappointment builds a foundation. That decision lead to a 3-day write, pitch video and an application process. All because Bernadette G reminded me of a contest that I didn't realize I already material for. The process took approximately 30 hours.

* Ring Fit Adventure workout


Friday, July 3, 2020

* Tennis...

* Bestbuy, Wheel of Fortune/Jeopardy...

* CLN rewrite/revisions (around 8pm to 12am)


Saturday, July 4, 2020

* CLN rewrite/revisions (12pm to 2am) 14 hours. One more writing day on Sunday (week 513)

* Writing script for video pitches...


As the quest continues...

The future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

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