Great to see your enthusiasm. :)

In response to, "Why not finish "Last Full Measure" before doing any other films?"

Ron Maxwell would love little more than to film "Last Full Measure." It's always a matter of convincing the people with the money to invest in the project.

During my brief tenure at NYU film school, we learned very explicitly that there was an infallible formula for making a financially successful film. A large part of this formula includes a bunch of sex and violence, and probably some motor-vehicle crashes. Because the film business is indeed first and foremost a for-profit business (not an artform), it only makes sense that the film businessmen should follow this tested formula if his primary aim is to make money. In truth, to do otherwise is to be a foolish film businessman.

Thus, for a financier to invest in a film that does not adhere to this or other proven successful formulas, he needs to have significant additional motivations, such as the desire to create a story of intellectual depth, or the desire to make the world a better place, etc.

Such financiers are extremely rare.

Nevertheless, Ron Maxwell did find such rare financing for "Copperhead", and this wonderful movie will be in theaters this spring.

The future production of all such movies continually depends on the consumer's demand for them measured exactly by his purchasing a ticket to see them. In other words, if you like non-formula films, it is essential that you communicate you approval by paying for a movie ticket to see them.

Be well!

Jonathan Maxwell