Join us this Sunday, May 25th, between 7:00pm and 9:00pm for our next social time at Fair State Brewing Cooperative, located at 2506 Central Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418. This event is open to everyone and everyone, and we hope to see as many people this Sunday!!!
On November 16th, 2024 IATSE Local 490 prop master Mark Wojahn led a class on Prop Assisting for Film and Television. It was an introductory course designed to teach new and prospective Prop Assistants what to expect and how to prepare for a job on a Film or Television series. The class was held at Propmaster Wojahn’s shop inside of the Casket Arts building in Northeast Minneapolis.
There were 15 people in attendance and this instruction was open to union and non union crew. This workshop covered job classifications and responsibilities, Safety, Organizing a Prop truck, set expectations, demands, continuity, propping actors and how to operate a lift gate, build a directors chair and many other tasks of a prop assist. We also offered hands on training on the movement of props and readying props for re-shoots or insert shots.
Attendees learning to use a liftgate and build directors chairs
We were fortunate to have three 490 prop masters at the workshop; Jason Thomas, Peter Dahl and Mark Wojahn. Each added key instruction to the class material.
Propmaster Thomas talks to the class on Prop Assisting
The course included a mix of instruction through a keynote presentation as well as Hands On Training in skills that are required to work as a Prop Assist in Film and Television. There was a prop truck rented from Tasty Lighting that the attendees toured through.
a three ton prop truck was on site from Tasty lighting
The COURSE OUTLINE was as follows;
- Prop Assistant Department job classifications and responsibilities.
- Safety (Lockup / On the Truck, On Location, Weather Related)
- Tools Required
- Setting up and Organizing a Prop Truck / Warehouse (aka Lockup)
- Wrapping out of a warehouse / lockup
- Hands On Training: Prepping Props before loading on a truck.
- Hands On Training: What is a Prop? Setting up a Prop Dept on Set.
- Hands On Training: Handing out props to Actors and Background talent
- Hands On Training: Re-propping for Re-shoots / Insert shots.
the class listening to Prop master WOjahn & the Keynote presentation
President of Local 490, Gary Surber, was in attendance and talked about the importance of IATSE.
This workshop is funded by the Internationals Training trust fund. Local 490 will have other workshops in the future. Pls check our website and social media pages for the next event. If you would apply to become a member of Local 490, here is a link to the membership application page. Local 490 thanks members like brother Mark Wojahn who are shining examples of the excellent crew base in Minnesota.
On June 22, 2024 Local 490 held an educational workshop on the fundamentals of Set Dressing. The class of 18 attendees were taught by veteran union Lead Man and Art Director Brian Simpson. The class was open to union and non-union crew. The venue was the Jack Pine Scene shop in St.Paul.
Lead Man Brian Simpson teaches the craft of Set dressing, photos provided by Jinny Jacobson
This workshop covered the job classifications and responsibilities, safety, organizing a warehouse and how to properly wrap out a set decoration warehouse at the end of production. It also offered hands on training in warehouse equipment, properly protecting set dressing for transport, practical light fixtures and recreating an established set for re-shoots or insert shots.
Attendees were taught Intro skills from wiring a lamp fixture to how to use a ratchet strap.
Attendee and 490 art dept, Jinny Jacobson commented that; “It was a great into and refresher. Fun opportunity to connect with old and new faces in the industry.”
Lead Man Brian Simpson teaches the craft of Set dressing, photo provided by Jinny Jacobson
The description of this position is as follows; the Set Dresser is responsible to the Set Decorator and Lead person. The Set Dresser assists in: the safe and efficient pick-up and return of all items and materials used as set decor; the carriage, movement, placement and preparation of all dressings within all studio and/or location sets; the maintenance, replacement and listing of inventory. The Set Dresser should be able to perform these tasks without direct supervision. The set dressers apply and remove the "dressing"; i.e., furniture, drapery, carpets, wall signs, vinyl decals—everything one would find in a location, (even doorknobs and wall sockets, when such items do not fall under the purview of construction.) Together the set dressers work on a “swing gang”. Most of the swing gang's work occurs before and after the shooting crew arrives, but one set dresser remains with the shooting crew and is known as the on-set dresser. Informally, in the U.S., the department is often referred to simply as “Set Dec”.
This workshop is funded by the Internationals Training trust fund. Local 490 will have other workshops in the future. Pls check our website and social media pages for the next event. If you would apply to become a member of Local 490, here is a link to the membership application page. Local 490 thanks members like brother Brian Simpson who are shining examples of the excellent crew base in Minnesota.
The Twin Cites locals of SAG-AFTRA and IATSE 490 held a happy hour meet n’ greet this last Monday on June 10th at Conduit Sound & Stage / 56 Brewing in NE Minneapolis. Crew and Talent mingled with political supporters from the MN House of Representatives. Some of the notable politicos present were; Speaker of the House Melissa Hortman, MN State Rep. Dave Lislegard and MN Rep. John Hout.
From Left; IATSE & MN Film Board of Diresctors-Brian Simpson, MN. Rep. Lislegard, MN House Speaker Hortman, MN Rep. Huot, Mark Bradley SAG, Casey Lewis SAG. Photo provided by SAG-Aftra.
One thing talked about was the omnibus Jobs and Economic Development Bill passed by the MN Senate and the MN House. In that bill was funding for a new state film office. IATSE & SAG are very happy to see MN get an official state funded film office and not a privately held Film Board.
The new MN Film Office will be a sub-office of Explore MN Tourism. That connection was needed because Explore MN Tourism is the only state agency that can legally use taxpayer dollars for marketing. Our MN Film Office will fall under that umbrella. Moving the Film Office to a state agency will eliminate the need for fundraising and put the staff in closer contact with the Governor and Legislators.
From Left, IATSE 490 Pres. Gary Surber, Brian Simpson and Rep Lislegard. hoto provided by SAG-Aftra.
490 would like to thank Conduit Sound for co-hosting this event. Conduit is owned by 490 member Sound Mixer Jim Morgan. Much thanks to SAG-Aftra and the politicians who were able attend and to pass this most recent bill to support a Film Office in MN! We hope to see y’all at the next happy hour TBD!
At the April 2024 membership meeting, former President of Local 490, Matt Muegge, was honored for his service. Brother Muegge was President for six years and vice president for three years. His long tenure as an officer saw the Local through many difficulties. We appreciate his service.
Pictured above presenting a plaque for his years of service is; (L) Molly Worre, Matt Muegge, Gary Surber, Owen Bradford and April Hinrichs.
Former President Muegge is most proud of this work during his tenure:
1-Getting the Local’s Constitution and By-Laws cleaned up and adding much needed amendments.
2-Continuing the growth of new members and our outreach to the local community.
3- Supporting the MN Film & TV Board in passing a 4 Year-100 Million Film Incentive for the State of Minnesota in 2023.
4-Most importantly, giving support to the members of our Executive Board in making huge progress for our Local such as Brother Simpson getting the series “In an Instant” unionized and Sister Georgia getting our Treasury books in order.
Thanks Brother Muegge for all your years of service to Local 490!
Crew from IATSE Local 490 worked under a union contract for a SPRITE commercial that was shot in Minnesota this past winter. The spot featured Timberwolves superstar Anthony “Antman” Edwards. This was a very positive production. The MN film community loves it when our local athletes are featured supporting global brands like Sprite. The spot was produced by Anonymous Content. The shoot was filmed at a beautiful local gym in the metro area. Union location mgr Charlotte Ariss coordinated where this spot would be filmed. Art dept was helmed by MN Production Designer Brian Simpson of Jackpine Scenic. Electric was lead by Mike Handley of Acme Stage & Tasty Lighting. Grip was keyed by Sev Pearman. Union Hair & Makeup was by April Hinrichs & Brenda Torre. Local producer was Sammy Halabi. Sound was mixed by Jeff Delauriers. Many other 490 crew were also on set as; script supervisors, set dressers, medics, craft service, boom operators, electricians and grips.
490 Dolly Grip Sev Pearmann glides the camera past Anthony Edwards
This SPRITE ad continues to play during the 2024 NBA playoffs. 490 wishes the MN Timberwolves all the luck and believes they can bring home a NBA championship. 490 would like to thank Anonymous Content and SPRITE for a safe shoot and for working under a union contract. This contract paid 490 members good wages, workers comp, unemployment insurance and health benefits.
Wide BTS image of the production
Local 490 believes when productions work under a union contract they are taking care of the workers, before, during and after the shoot. We hope to work with these clients again. Contact our business agent at this email, businessagent@iatse490.net, to find out more about shooting union.#mnfilm #iatse490 #anthonyedwards #sprite #filminminnesota
At the beginning of 2024, IATSE Local 490’s membership elected Gary Surber as its’ new President. He succeeds President Matt Muegge. In the election, he ran unopposed. President Surber will lead the Local for the next three years. Before becoming President, Brother Surber was a longtime member of 490, working in the construction, carpentry and art crafts. He will continue to work on those projects. His resume includes many movies and commercial spots, for example, the Coen brother’s A Serious Man, Garrison Keillor’s A Prairie Home Companion and doing art alongside Charlize Theron on North Country. President Surber says this quote from Russel Means inspires him, “If you can't stand for something you will fall for anything.” 490 is fortunate to have his energy helm the organization, now and into the future.
Other election news, sister April Hindrichs was was re-elected for her 2nd term as Vice President. Business Agent Kellie Larson, Treasurer Natasha Georgia and Secretary Owen Bradford all continue to hold their positions for another term. Executive board members at large, Molly Worre and newcomer Tom Franchette complete the Executive board. Sister Deborah Fiscus was re-elected as chair of the Board of Trustees as was Brother Scott Nordhausen and Dan Miller.
IATSE Local 490 is proud to have these fine members lead us in the coming years. We look forward to the positive work they will be doing as our union continues to guide the MN Film Industry.
Stage 6 Productions shot the feature film "Downtown Owl" in Minnesota under a union contract in 2022. It was a comedy drama directed by first time filmmakers Lily Rabe and Hamish Linklater. The adapted screenplay was by Linklater of a book by MN writer Chuck Klosterman. The film starred Lily Rabe, Ed Harris, Vanessa Hudgens, August Blanco Rosenstein, Jack Dylan Grazer, Finn Wittrock, and Henry Golding. It shot in Minnesota for 22 days. The film had its’ World Premiere at the Tribeca Film Fest earlier this year. It is coming to Digital on April 23. You can pre-order now at : https://bit.ly/DowntownOwl
The film employed many local craftspeople, actors, teamsters and was shot under a Tier 1- IA contract. Local 490 is very proud of the many of their members were hired off their roster (or became members after the film) for example; It was decorated by Melissa Pritchett, Lead Man was Peter Dahl and ‘Owl’ was Art Directed by Brian Simpson. Set dressing by Nathan Tymochuk with Cheri Anderson as the Art Buyer. Jason Thomas was Propmaster and Sam Deans was the assist. Sound was mixed and recorded by Jim Morgan with Matt Joyer on the boom. Make up was crewed by April Hindrichs, Laura Hart was her key. Hair was done by Brenda Torre. Costume Supervisor was Amanda Schwarzrock. Union Best Boy electric was Nathan Lee, Grip by Ricky Taylor. Craft Service was provided by Natasha Georgia. SFX was executed by Dieter & Evonne Sturm with Tiny Proctor as the SFX tech. Linda Kuussito was scripty. Union owned Wheels Up provided trailers and Tasty Lighting supplied the Grip Truck. Thank you to all these union members who worked extremely hard under challenging budgets and with first time filmmakers. Other non-union crew were present, we invite them to apply to Local 490.
Here are some BTS shots of some of our Local 490 members working on set.
This film was a good example how a tier 1 film can be executed in Minnesota. The MN Film and TV board did an nice job bringing "Downtown Owl" to MN. 490 wishes the film lots of luck with its digital release and hopes to see other projects of this size or larger to use its membership to create their story. If you are interested in signing a union contract, pls contact our business agent at E: businessagent@iatse490.net C: 612-393-0550
The local press was very interested in this project. Here are some links to stories written about "Downtown Owl";
Business Journal: https://www.bizjournals.com/twincities/news/2022/04/27/movie-st-paul-downtown-owl.html
Star Tribune: https://www.bizjournals.com/twincities/news/2022/04/27/movie-st-paul-downtown-owl.html
CBS News: https://www.cbsnews.com/minnesota/news/film-production-tax-credit-draws-indie-film-crew-to-st-paul/
IATSE 490 legislative committee chair and member of the MN Film Board board of directors, Brian Simpson, reports that the film industry had a great hearing Friday (3/10), in the House Economic Development Finance and Policy committee. The committee later passed the House Bill 2059 in the House Economic Development Finance Committee unanimously. This is the 1st of 5 steps this bill needs to become law. Local 490 thanks everyone who was able to be there in person. The turnout from our community was incredible, and we believe that made a huge impression on the committee members and showed them how important this tax credit is to our community. The chief author of the bill, Rep Dave Lislegard, with a Monster energy drink in hand, led a great lineup of testifiers.
490’s Brian Simpson with Rep Dave Lislegard, (photo provided by Brother Simpson)
Testifying before the committee was; Rep. Lisegard, MN Film Board director Melodie Bahan, Teamster lobbyist Hannah Allstedt, Michelle Scott of the Chisholm Inn & Suites and our Brian Simpson of Local 490. Three labor orgs came together at the Call To Action event with MN Actors union SAG/AFTRA, transportation’s Teamsters and crew with IATSE. We all lobbied together as a unified labor force.
Casey Lewis of Sag/ Aftra and Hannah Allstedt of the teamsters pose for a picture with Brother simpson, (photo provided by Brother Simpson)
This committee is just one stop on our path. Up next will be a very important stop in House Tax committee. Simpson estimated about 75 crew, vendors or NGOs were at the hearing from the film industry. The date and time for next hearing is still TBD. When it happens we need you all to come back to the Capitol and support us again.
Rep Dave Lislegard working at his committee post (photo provided by Brother Simpson)
On the Senate side our bill has been sent directly to Senate Tax Committee, that hearing date is TBD.
IATSE Local 490 has some of the best crew in MN on our roster. They have worked on features, short films and commercials. They are on the top shelf in the MN film industry. In this series, Crew Profiles, we are highlighting union members on our roster. Next up is Local 490 member Natalie Hale. She is one of our veterans in Hair & Make-up.
Ms. Hale does Last minute touch-ups for Broadway Star, Caroline Innerbichler for Chanhassen Dinner Theaters, “Little Mermaid”
Tells us about you and what you do in Film and TV? I work in the industry doing Make-up & Hair for Feature Films, TV Shows, Celebrity, Campaign, Music Video and Commercial Advertising. I am extremely passionate for this craft. I have many years of experience and am pillar in the Minneapolis film community.
2) How long have you been working in Film? What got you interested in our industry?
I’ve been working on set since 1991. Growing up, I loved films. I would watch the old B & W classics all night long with my father. When I was 12 years old, my family owned its first video rental store. I worked doing rentals and then things really changed when we bought our first home video camera. My brothers and myself went wild and made endless movies, including horror. Of course it was DIY and I was the director and often the actress donning the fake blood. I continued to make films through high school and attended MCAD. I received a 2 year film degree from MCTC, then went to cosmetology school at Horst (now Aveda). I added a job at Pro Color, a photo, film developing center and met many people in the business. With all of these wonderful experiences and schooling, I started to transition from student films to professional sets. At first, I did mainly PA work and was a volunteer at the MN Film Board. I learned to network. I combined my love for films, art and people. I fell in love with the the Makeup Department. Since then, I haven’t looked back:)
3) Tell us some of the films and actors you have been a part of?
My favorite film I worked on was, “A Prairie Home Companion” directed by Robert Altman & shadowed by Paul Thomas Anderson. Daily, in our make-up trailer, the team painted the faces of these amazing actors: Meryl Streep, Woody Harrelson, Tommy Lee Jones, Lindsey Lohan, Kevin Kline, Mya Rudolph, John C. Reilly, Virginia Madsen, Lily Tomlin, Garrison Keillor and many others. It was the most pleasant film experience that I had with an all star cast & crew.
4) Who else is calling you for this work?
Being in the Film Industry/Union for many years, has allowed me to cross paths with many producers and directors. I get calls for just about anything that needs a Make-up Artist’s touch and/or to spread positive energy on set. Aside from film work, I get calls from the Fortune 500 Companies that are home to Minnesota, and often get to make up their CEO’s. I also have established delightful working relationships with many personal clients, who I glam up when not working on set.
5) What do you feel is important for the future for Make-Up Artists?
When I first started in the business, I was fortunate to have many HMU artists be extremely welcoming and who mentored me. They believed in me as person & as an artist. They brought me on sets to assist, work alongside of and collaborate. From this, I have learned valuable lessons, set etiquette, kit sanitation/ cleanliness, skill set and sharing of ideas, troubleshooting, quality over quantity and insane amounts of energy exchange! Over the years, out of respect and to keep the quality of HMU artistry intact, I have guided others with those gifts as well. I do this to honor those before me and I would like to ensure that our film craft is consistent for years to come. We have some of the best artists & humans in MN and I’m proud of the Makeup / Hair Community and to be a member of Local 490!
Natalie Touches up a model in front of 1st Avenue for a Plato’s Closet Commercial
6) Do you have any hopes for the MN Film Incentive? I have worked on films since the 1990’s when “Snowbate” started. I understand the importance it plays for our film community and for the larger state economy. I feel it is very important for our legislature to further understand the wider benefits everyone could reap when a film decides to shoot in a city or in other parts of the state. One way that I have been thinking of proposing, is to set to aside greater incentive amounts for larger tiers of films. For instance, a union contracted Tier 1, 2 or 3 project would bring more money to our economy than a non-union micro-budget indie. I would love to see 20 million in Film incentives each year. There would be so much work! In my humble opinion, this could be one way the State Govt shows to us that it is serious about our industry and job creation. I believe this is workable with the 16 billion $$$ surplus and it could be accomplished. I think it would be beneficial for many Minnesotans. I plan on getting even more involved to figure out new ways to encourage the Capitol to allot more film incentive money.
7) How long have you been a member of Local 490? I have been a member in good standing of IATSE 490 since 1999.
Local 490 is proud to have members like Natalie Hale on our union roster. All of our union members are the best in their stagecraft. You can find out more about Natalie’s work at her website, click here. Please support our film industry by hiring Minnesota’s best, like Natalie Hale and shooting your next production on a union contract. In doing so, you are getting the most experienced crew in Minnesota, your project will be safe, well run, your crew will be professional. You will be paying the crew good wages, supplying workers comp, unemployment insurance and even retirement benefits. This supports our union brothers and sisters before, during and after your project. Contact our business agent at this email, businessagent@iatse490.net, to find out more about shooting union. If you would like to be featured in Crew Profiles, pls contact the social media committee, or email them at socialmedia@iatse490.net .
Great to see a commercial with 490 crew played during the Super Bowl LVII. It was a Cenex spot under a union contract and shot in Minnesota. Union members on this shoot inc. Pres. Matt Muegge as gaffer, Best Boy Electric: Mike Handley, Electric: Brandon Sandberg, the Art Dept was Art Director Mark Wojahn with; Brian Simpson, Tom Kristjanson, Sarah Jean Shervin and Melissa Pritchett. Sound Mix: Owen Brafford, Boom: Nick Wright, Scripty: Linda Kuusisto, Makeup: Teri Demerest, Wardrobe: Deborah Fiscus and Craft Service; Natasha Georgia.
Dresser, Tom Kristjanson, Propmaster, Brian Simpson decorate the Cenex store for the commercial.
Gaffer Matt Muegge sets a light for the Exterior
490 would like to thank Cenex, PICROW Productions and Colle McVoy for a safe shoot and for working under a union contract. This contract paid 490 members good wages, workers comp, unemployment insurance and health benefits.
Decorator Sarah Jean Shervin, Wardrobe Deborah Fiscus and Dresser Melissa Pritchett on set
Local 490 believes when productions work under a union contract they are taking care of the workers, before, during and after the shoot. We hope to work with you again. Contact our business agent at this email, businessagent@iatse490.net, to find out more about shooting union.#mnfilm #iatse490 #artdirection #cenex #filminminnesota
The 2023 ‘Made in Minnesota’ promo is now out. Produced by The Mn Film Alliance, with key roles on this production by IATSE 490, SAG & DGA members.
490 Craft Service, Natasha Georgia, is featured in the promo. Film Still by MN Film Alliance
Click below to watch the Video promo.
Watch the photo gallery below to see other 490 members featured in this years promo! Film Stills by MN Film Alliance.
Productions in town and from out of town can support our film industry by hiring union members and shooting your next production on a union contract. In doing so, you are getting the best crew in Minnesota, your project will be safe, well run, your crew will be professional. You will be paying the crew good wages, supplying workers comp, unemployment insurance and even retirement benefits. This supports our union brothers and sisters before, during and after your project. Contact our business agent, Kellie Larson, at this email, businessagent@iatse490.net, to find out more about shooting union.
If you are a local 490 union member and would like to be featured on this page, pls contact Mark Wojahn in the social media committee, or email him at socialmedia@iatse490.net.
#economicdevelopment #mnfilm #workforcedevelopment #iatse490 #iatse #mnfilmtv #madeinminnesota #mncrew #sagafra #dga
On Saturday Dec 17th, IATSE Local 490 participated in a promotional shoot highlighting Minnesota crew, studios and gear for; the MN Film Board, The Upper Midwest Film Office and the Minnesota Film Alliance. In attendance from the film office was Riki McManus and Shari Marshik.
Acme Stage is the location for the “Film in Minnesota” Promo for 2023!
The shoot was produced by Sammy Halabi and coordinated by union producer Briana Rose Lee. Assistant director was Bryan Shelly of the DGA. It was filmed at ACME Stage owned by 490 member Michael Handley. Most of the lighting and grip gear used was from Tasty Lighting, also owned by Mr. Handley. The wardrobe trailer on set was provided by Wheels up Rentals, co-owned by 490 member April Hinrichs and Mr. Halabi. Producer Halabi commented, "Local 490 crew is the real backbone of our industry. Us having union crew on our shoot made this project very special"
Producers ; Sammy Halabi & Briana Rose Lee with the Upper Midwest Film office team. Photo by S. Halabi
Art Dept who dressed the set were 490 members; Cheri Anderson, Melissa Pritchett, Jinny Jacobsen, Scott Nordhausen and Mark Wojahn. Set walls were provided by union member Brian Simpson of Jack Pine Scenic.
490 Member Scott Nordhausen paints the trim on the set wall.
The union grip and electrics on set were Joe Gallup, Layton Umpleby, Thomas VandenDolder and Matt Muegge. The shoot was gaffed by Michael Handley.
Union Member Layton Umpleby on the dolly
Union Hair and Make Up was April Hinrichs. Union sound was Jeff DesLauriers. Wardrobe was provided 490’s Deborah Fiscus. Union Craft service was Natasha Georgia. Script supervisor was 490 member Molly Worre.
the Set seen on the monitors, photo provided by Jeff Deslauriers
There were many more crew and talent that were non-union on set. We thank the whole team, union and non-union, that was able to pull this shoot off. We hope that the promotional stills, videos and commercials made from this shoot will help encourage the MN State legislature to continue and/or increase funding the State Film Tax incentive and rebate. We believe the film industry is an important engine for economic and creative development in Minnesota.
Union Members Melissa Pritchett and Jinny Jacobsen work the dolly & Camera.
Productions in town and from out of town can support our film industry by hiring union members and shooting your next production on a union contract. In doing so, you are getting the best crew in Minnesota, your project will be safe, well run, your crew will be professional. You will be paying the crew good wages, supplying workers comp, unemployment insurance and even retirement benefits. This supports our union brothers and sisters before, during and after your project. Contact our business agent at this email, businessagent@iatse490.net, to find out more about shooting union.
If you are a local 490 union member and would like to be featured on this page, pls contact Mark Wojahn in the social media committee, or email him at socialmedia@iatse490.net.
#economicdevelopment #mnfilm #workforcedevelopment #iatse490 #mnfilmtv #madeinminnesota #goforsammy #mncrew
Local 490 has some of the best crew in MN on our roster. They have worked on features, short films and commercials. They are on the top tier in the MN film industry. In this series, Crew Profiles, we are highlighting our union members on our roster. Next up, Local 490 member Brian Simpson. He is a specialist in building sets, props and leading art dept. crews.
1) Tells us about you and what you do in Film and TV?
I work as an Art Director but I also own Jackpine Scenic. We do sets, custom props, and advertising displays for Film, TV, Commercials and Events. Find us at jackpinescenic.com and follow us on instagram @jackpinescenic
2) How long have you been working in the Industry?
17 years
3) Tell us about your new gear, shop space that you’ve acquired?
This spring we moved to a larger shop space in the 280/University area. We do woodwork, metal work, painting, foam sculpting and anything else that comes up. We also now can spray hard coating on foam sculptures and displays using either polyurethane or polyurea.
4) Who is calling you for this work?
We do sets for commercials and photo shoots. We did some work for the film Downtown Owl. The bulk of our year went to the 3M Open golf tournament. We work with Brand Ink to create all kinds of displays for 3M. Some of the displays are floating in lakes, some of them are out near tee boxes and greens. A lot of them are interactive for the guests including mini golf holes and a large walk through wind chime instrument. This year we had over 40 displays on the golf course. This one event takes several months to prep and then we spend the entire month of July on the golf course installing and then striking everything.
Here are some pictures as well as the info pdf I send out for Jackpine Scenic.
5) Can you see other places you want to go with your business?
We are going to pursue building more sets and custom props. Next year we may be pursuing additional golf tournaments with Brand Ink. The foam sculpting is an area for growth. After we spray the foam elements with a hard coat, they can be finished in a variety of ways. Elements can be painted or we can print graphics on vinyl and have them wrapped. These work for advertising displays, but they can also be built for set elements that are strong enough for actors walk on. As an example we can create functional faux stone steps out of foam. The mini golf holes that we made for the 3M Open were sculpted out of foam and then hard coated with polyurethane. 10,000 people played the mini golf holes this year and they are still ready for next year.
MN Lottery Commercial, Set by Brian Simpson & Jackpine Scenic.
6) Do you have any hopes for the new film incentive?
I am definitely hopeful for the incentive. There has been a lot of hiccups that are mostly the fault of the legislature but I am optimistic that we will start to see some larger projects.
7) How long have you been a member of Local 490?
Since 2008.
Mayo Clinic Commercial, Art Direction by Brian Simspon & Jackpine Scenic.
Local 490 is proud to have members like Brian Simpson on our union roster. All of our union members are the best in their stagecraft. You can find out more about Brian’s work at his website. jackpinescenic.com
Please support our film industry by hiring members like Brian Simpson and shooting your next production on a union contract. In doing so, you are getting the best crew in Minnesota, your project will be safe, well run, your crew will be professional. You will be paying the crew good wages, supplying workers comp, unemployment insurance and even retirement benefits. This supports our union brothers and sisters before, during and after your project. Contact our business agent at this email, businessagent@iatse490.net, to find out more about shooting union.
If you would like to be featured in Crew Profiles, pls contact Mark Wojahn in the social media committee, or email him at socialmedia@iatse490.net.
Local 490 members Sammy Halibi(Producer Coordination) and April Hindrichs (HMU) have made the local CBS news, WCCO. Their film trailer business, Wheels Up Rentals was featured in a story about them and the MN film incentive.
April and Sammy in one of their film trailers, image by WCCO news.
Here is the link to the News story, WCCO FILM INCENTIVE MEDIA STORY.
490 would like to thank members like Sammy Halibi and April Hindrichs for their work in the union and outside making Minnesota a better place for production.
If you are a 490 union member and would like to be featured on our News page pls contact the social media committee at; socialmedia@iatse490.net if you are a production that would like to work under a union contact, please contact our business agent at this email, businessagent@iatse490.net, to find out more about shooting union.
Longtime Local 490 member G&E, Chris"Floater" Malone has passed on. Our community wishes his family love and care. His memorial is on May 15th, pls see attached photo for details. Here is a link to the obituary. https://replica.startribune.com/.../article_popover_share...
Chris”Floater” Malone near set. Photo provided by Bob Medcraft
Crew from IATSE Local 490 worked under a union contract for the CENEX fall campaign that was shot in Minnesota last October 2021. Two of the spots played during the NFL Super Bowl LVI, just before the halftime show. This was a very intense production as six commercials were filmed in just 2 shoot days. The shoot was filmed at a Cenex station near Detriot Lakes, MN. The spots featured many picture cars, customs props, a crane rig and various looks inside the gas station to keep the art dept and other depts busy. Through all of this, 490 was up to the challenge.
“Local Entertainment” commerical by Cenex (2021)
The commercials above and below played just before the halftime show.
THe Cenex Station near Detroit Lakes, MN was the location for the Shoot.
The spots were directed by Kevin Johnson and produced by the production company PICROW from LA. The local agency was Colle McVoy.
“Crosstown Rivals” commercial by Cenex (2021)
Below are some production stills and a list of the union crew on the shoot;
Above: Assistant Props Melissa Pritchett & Propmaster Sarah Jean Shervin hold one of the custom license plate props for the commercial.
Above: Boom & sound man Nick Wright directs the microphone to the talent.
Above; Leadman: Brian Simpson with propmaster Sarah Jean Shervin apply vinyl to “greek” the set dressing.
Other union crew; Art Director: Mark Wojahn, Set Dresser: Tom Kristjanson, Gaffer: Matt Muegge, Best Boy Electric: Mike Handley, Electric: Brandon Sandberg, Sound Mix: Owen Brafford, Scripty: Linda Kuusisto, Makeup: Teri Demerest, Wardrobe: Deborah Fiscus and Craft Service; Natasha Georgia.
Here is one of the ARRI Alexa cameras that was on set. Camera supply house and Local 600 Member owned-Camera Support: CineMechanics provided the camera gear.
490 would like to thank Cenex, PICROW Productions and Colle McVoy for a safe shoot and for working under a union contract. This contract paid 490 members good wages, workers comp, unemployment insurance and health benefits. We believe when productions work under a union contract they are taking care of the workers, before, during and after the shoot. We hope to work with you again. Contact our business agent at this email, businessagent@iatse490.net, to find out more about shooting union.
IATSE Local 490 crew worked under a union contract for the NHL Winter Classic music video in early December 2021. The video featured the LA band DIRTY HONEY. The four piece performed on a frozen lake in northern MN. The band covered the Prince song, “Lets Get Crazy”. The music video footage was then edited into a kick off video for the pregame celebration for the outdoor hockey game of the Minnesota Wild v. the St.Louis Blues game at Target field in Minneapolis, MN. The game was played on January 1st 2022, it was reported as the coldest game ever played by the National Hockey League.
The video was directed by Tyler Lassiter of Turner sports and Craig Murray of Synergy films. This was a very intense shoot. It featured freezing temps, pryo-technics, windchill, ice precautions, medics and drones. Through all this, 490 was up to the challenge.
Below are some production stills and a list of the union crew on the shoot;
Above: EFX- Smoke effects, Tom Kristjanson mans an Antari M-8, 1700 Watt water-based fog machine on the snowpack.
Above: Production Designer: Rob Walstead runs a second Antari M-8, 1700 Watt water-based fog machine.
Above; Propmaster: Mark Wojahn tests a ring light in front of microphone in his prop shop before the shoot.
Best Boy Electric: Severyn Pearman assembles an ARRI skypanel DoPchoice SNAPBAG Softbox on the frozen lake.
Other union crew; Gaffer: Nathan Lee, Key Grip: Darin Spring, Best Boy Grip: Jeff Villars filled out the G& E dept. Conduit Sound supplied gear for Playback & union member Nick Wright supervised the sound dept on the shoot.
HMU was Abigail Gellrich, Craft Service was Katie Driver, the Grip Truck was supplied by Local 490 Member owned-G&E: Tasty Lighting Supply.
Here is one of the ARRI Alexa cameras that was on set. Camera supply house and Local 600 Member owned-Camera Support: CineMechanics provided some support gear for day.
490 would like to thank the NHL, Turner Sports, the production company Synergy Films, local production supervisor Erin Acker Wynne for a safe shoot and for working under a union contract. This contract paid 490 members good wages, workers comp, unemployment insurance and health benefits. We believe when productions work under a union contract they are taking care of the workers, before, during and after the shoot. We hope to work with you again. Contact our business agent at this email, businessagent@iatse490.net, to find out more about shooting union.
Veteran MN production crew & Local 490 members Sammy Halabi & April Hinrichs have officially opened a new business called "Wheels Up Rentals". It is an Entertainment Trailer Rental business serving Minnesota and the surrounding 49 states. They currently have 3 trailers in their fleet.
1. 4 Stall Hair & Make-Up Trailer
2. 3 Stall 3 Shower Luxury Honey Wagon
3. Production Office Trailer
Details of each trailer can be found on the Wheels up website. Wheels Up Rentals also has plans for more acquisitions, please stay tuned!
Their focus at Wheels Up Rentals is to build custom trailers for each department. While designing custom is not new for film and nationwide fleets, their twist is to have these trailers designed by Film department heads. They need to look no farther than themselves for this expertise. Mr. Halabi is one of the busiest producers, production managers and coordinators in MSP. He is actively building out the “under construction” production trailer in their fleet. His business partner, Ms. Hinrichs, is a Hair & Make, SFX Dept head. She has been on many features, commercials and TV series. Her HMU business, April Marie Makeup, has their own lab, built to make all your SFX and make up needs. She has designed the HMU trailer in their arsenal.
While some of you may smirk as their tagline claims to be serving “the surrounding 49 states”, Wheels up Rentals has already gone national. Their HMU trailer recently returned from film work in Atlanta. So if their fleet doesn’t work in MN, they could be elsewhere. They are officially open for business. Please contact them at their website at:
Local 490 is proud to have members like Sammy Halabi & April Hinrichs in our union. These IATSE members are the best in their stagecraft. You can find out more about Sammy’s work at his Instagram page, GOFORSAMMY and April’s work at her website.
Please support our film industry by hiring stellar members like Sammy & April. Shoot your next production on a union contract. In doing so, you are getting the best crew in Minnesota, your project will be safe, well run, your crew will be professional. You will be paying the crew good wages, supplying workers comp, unemployment insurance and even retirement benefits. This supports our union brothers and sisters before, during and after your project. Contact our business agent at this email, businessagent@iatse490.net, to find out more about shooting union.
If you would like to be featured in Crew Profiles, pls contact Mark Wojahn in the social media committee, or email him at socialmedia@iatse490.net
Local 490 has some of the best crew in MN on our roster. They have worked on features, short films and commercials. They are on the top tier in the MN film industry. In this series, Crew Profiles, we are highlighting our union members on our roster. Next up, Local 490 member Tiny Proctor. He is a specialist in building sets, props and SFX.
1) Tiny, tells us about you and what you do in Film and TV?
I have been working in film, TV and still photography since 1994 and in special effects since 2011. I’ve had a shop in North East Minneapolis in the Casket Building since 2006. In this shop, I’ve cranked out many sets, props and art over the years.
Tiny Proctor, Film & Still Photo SFX, Set & Prop Specialist.
2) Tell us about your new SFX gear that you’ve acquired?
I recently acquired most of Big Steve’s SFX shop. So I have new rain, fire, fog and snow equipment and can create many effects. I have 2 large rain towers that each cover a 75 foot wide area along with 5 firefighter nozzles and 1000’ of firehose. I can connect to fire hydrants and water trucks. I can load that into my 600 gallon cistern or I can syphon from a pool or lake with 3 different pumps. I also have more than a dozen smaller rain towers and rain bar options. For fog, I have 10 different fog machines from small, concealable ones to the giant Igeba gas powered foggers and dry ice pots. For fire effects I have many flame bars and I can make custom rigs. For snow, I have different types of snow machines and even some air squibs. If I don’t have it, I can get it or figure it out.
Tiny on set with the Make-A-Wish company as they create a kids St&r W&rs fan film.
3) Who is calling you for this work?
I the past few months I have worked on; a feature on the North Shore and a local TV show, where we created a rain effect over a road and with moving cars. I did a Make-A-Wish film with a debris explosion and some music videos with flying debris, fog and smoke, blood and gunshot squibs. Before that I did the SFX on the HBO pilot, Mogadishu, MN.
Rains towers on the feature film, Abroad, currently in Post Production (photo by Matt Roy, 2021)
4) Can you see other places you want to go with your business?
My time working on projects in Minneapolis has taught me to work with people of varying experience in diverse disciplines. I am comfortable managing a small or large crew or, more often, working with other departments to create seamless, safe and beautiful projects. I also have experience with firearms and pyrotechnics and am seeking certifications for both as an armorer and pyro-technician. Here is a link to a flamethrower rig that I made for Hormel Chili, https://vimeo.com/350014039 For fun, I create fire effigies and am a fire dancer and performer. I perform locally and at Burning Man.
Tiny performing as a fire dancer & breather.
5) Do you have any hopes for the new Minnesota film incentive?
I think the new film incentive will bring some larger projects into Minnesota. There are many people in IATSE 490 with deep experience in film making and I believe we can shine as a quality destination to produce excellent films, television and ads.
6) How long have you been a member of Local 490?
I joined IATSE 490 in 2019.
Local 490 is proud to have members like Tiny Proctor, Dieter & Evonne Sturm on our special effects roster. All of these union members are the best in their stagecraft. You can find out more about Tiny’s work at his website.
Please support our film industry by hiring members like Tiny Proctor and shooting your next production on a union contract. In doing so, you are getting the best crew in Minnesota, your project will be safe, well run, your crew will be professional. You will be paying the crew good wages, supplying workers comp, unemployment insurance and even retirement benefits. This supports our union brothers and sisters before, during and after your project. Contact our business agent at this email, businessagent@iatse490.net, to find out more about shooting union.
If you would like to be featured in Crew Profiles, pls contact Mark Wojahn in the social media committee, or email him at socialmedia@iatse490.net.
IATSE 490 is the website for Minnesota theatrical and studio mechanics. We serve the film and TV industry with the best in technicians and craftsman. This site contains our roster and information on our activities.
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