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Mama Simba Films

Presents In association with LITTLE STUDIO FILMS

Stealing Roses

Press Kit This material is also available online at www.StealingRoses.com

Contact for Sales: Other Contact: Alexia Melocchi, Producer Megan Clare Johnson, Producer/Writer/Director Little Studio Films Mama Simba Films Phone: 310-288-6640 Phone: 503- 804-6983 [email protected] [email protected]

Running Time: 96 mins Tag Line: Love makes a thief of any man. Genre: Comedy-Drama Rating: In Process of being rated Short Synopsis: Terrified at the prospect of losing his seriously ill wife, a man plans a bank robbery to pay for her medical treatments with help from his eccentric friends - while his son, a cop, tries to stop him.

Key Crew Key Cast List Producer, Director, Writer: Megan Clare Johnson Walter John Heard (Home Alone, Big, Sopranos) Producer: Alexia Melocchi Rose Cindy Williams (Laverne & Shirley) Executive Producer: Alexandra Yacovlef Johnny Mark Famiglietti (Terminator 3) Associate Producer: John Heard Sally Josie Davis (Charles in Charge) Associate Producer: Cindy Williams Mr. Lowell Bruce Davison (X-Men) Co-Producer & Line Producer: John Milton Branton Gerry Al Sapienza (Sopranos) Director of Photography: Armand Gazarian Al Jude Ciccolella (Sin City) Production Designer: Gladys Rodriquez Charlie Vic Polizos (Prizzi’s Honor) Wardrobe Designer: Amber Wrigley Marco James Gleason (American Dreamz) Editor: Darlene Haussmann Mrs. Russell Hélène Cardona (Chocolat) Music By: Karen Eden, Joey Stelio Savante (Ugly Betty) Gavin Wahl-Stephens, Ginny Agnes Olech (Rules of Engagement) and Jude Ciccollela

Stealing Roses Love makes a thief of any man.

Film Synopsis

Walter (JOHN HEARD), a middle-aged man, down on his luck with no money, feels his back is against a wall with few options when his wife, Rose (CINDY WILLIAMS), develops throat cancer. Without adequate funds for medical treatments- too poor for health insurance, too young for Medicare and too “rich” for Medicaid- Walter resorts to drastic measures and decides to rob a bank.

Walter steadily prepares for the big heist as he goes through his checklist for the bank robbery - getaway car, masks, guns – and casing the bank with an unfortunate run-in with the Bank Manager (BRUCE DAVISON). When he and Rose get fired from their only house cleaning client (HELENE CARDONA) - Rose decides to become Walter’s partner and "wingman" in the bank robbery.

Walter’s son, Johnny (MARK FAMIGLIETTI), a cop, moves back in with Walter and Rose to keep an eye on his suspicious father. The strained father-son relationship gets tested and reevaluated by Johnny as he struggles to come to terms with his father’s determination and as he learns his own lessons in love when he falls for SALLY (JOSIE DAVIS). When Rose turns out to be too ill to partake in the robbery – Walter enlists his eccentric friends (AL SAPIENZA, JUDE CICCOLLELA, VIC POLIZOS and JAMES GLEASON) to help.

Walter, Rose and Johnny all struggle in down-to-earth and comical ways as they all come to their own conclusions on what the final decision needs to be in their difficult situation.

Stealing Roses Love makes a thief of any man.

About the Production

Stealing Roses is a love story about the lengths a man will go through to save his wife – a comedy of desperation with a crazed-filled bank robbery - all framed within the catalyst of a health care crisis. Walter, Rose and their son, Johnny, all struggle in down-to-earth and comical ways and then come to their own conclusions on what the final decision ne eds to be in their difficult situation. Once Megan Clare Johnson’s Stealing Roses screenplay received film festival contest accolades and the touching story began attracting the attention of renowned actors – she started putting the production into motion. Megan decided this would be her feature film directorial debut and formed her production company, Mama Simba Films, to produce the film in association with Alexia Melocchi of Little Studio Films.

Veteran actors John Heard and Cindy Williams were drawn to the comedy- drama script and cast quickly as lead characters Walter and Rose – they also came aboard as Associate Producers. John Heard enlisted his friends to join the film as his bank robbery co-conspirators –actors Jude Ciccollela, Vic Polizos and James Gleason. Mark Famiglietti and Josie Davis enthusiastically were cast along with Oscar-nominated actor Bruce Davison -- and we were off and running.

Stealing Roses was shot in Los Angeles and Portland, Ore. The film opens with Walter robbing the city rose garden since he is too poor to afford roses for his wife. The film is supposedly set in Portland and the rose garden is a key setting in the film so melding Portland’s International Test

Rose Garden and the Los Angeles Exposition Park Rose Garden was essential. The theme of roses is also instilled in the film’s marketing campaign “We Steal Roses” as fans will be asked to share their love and health care stories regarding their friends and families on our film website. Megan’s background as a writer and health care consultant led her to write this story of love and economic uncertainty that exists both locally and globally -- with a comedic twist.

Press for Stealing Roses

LA Examiner Article by Chaney Ojinnaka:

“Stealing Roses: An Interview with Megan Clare Johnson, John Heard & Cindy Williams” http://www.examiner.com/indie-movie-in-los-angeles/stealing-roses-an-interview-with-megan-johnson-john-heard-cindy-williams

Below are article excerpts:

Chaney: What does the title, Stealing Roses mean? Megan Clare Johnson: Every few nights, Walter would visit the city Rose Garden and steal roses for his wife - it’s her favorite flower. It’s the one thing he could provide for her, hence the name. Chaney: What inspired you to create the movie? Megan Clare Johnson: Every writer works with what they connect with and when you begin writing a screenplay, that’s where you start. I really wanted to write a love story, and so I chose a couple aged in their early sixties. I wondered what it would be like being married for 35 years to a loved one, and if that person falls critically ill, what they would do without any money. I usually write family stories and comedy. I thought about where and how these characters would come from and develop. Alexia Melocchi (Producer ) believes that Hollywood needs to make more movies about long-term couples. "Socially I believe that it was a great opportunity to start a dialogue on the state of health care in America.” Cindy Williams: It was fortunate that I was working with John because I felt like I had known him all my life for some strange reason. He was like a bad brother. There was kind of an in-built history. He is just such a consummate actor that he plays that part with the right amount of comedy, drama and eccentricity. It's just so easy as an actor to relate to him on all the levels that I needed to feel like we have been married for that length of time. It was all in the script as well, the intimacy, the closeness, the familiarity. Chaney: What inspired you to do the movie considering you both have played in so many other mainstream films - Cindy notably Laverne and Shirley and John notably Home Alone. After all, it’s a healthcare movie, there’s some politics involved. Can you talk a little bit more about that? John Heard: There’s some similarity with the caring dad role in Home Alone’s Peter McCallister. Besides, I think one of the things that gets overlooked is health care and the insurance industry that has ruined the relationship between doctor and patient. You know when I was a kid, my mother didn’t need health insurance to take me to the doctor and the simplicity of the film speaks to a certain class of people. Walter has owned a shoe store, is trying to work every day of his life but he is still poor. Cindy Williams: It’s unacceptable that everyone doesn’t have health care insurance because until its happened to you or a loved one, you just don’t know where to turn. So many people have fallen through the cracks. The film describes the perfect character, in the middle class just across the board because it’s a struggle that everybody is fighting. Chaney: Why did you choose John and Cindy for the role? Megan Clare Johnson: When we found out we had some actors, Alexia and I started meeting with everybody in LA. I remember when I met Cindy, I felt like I knew Cindy for years. I always wanted John in the film. Sometimes you know the chemistry will be right. Right away we knew. We even got John’s friends (Vic Polizos, Jude Ciccolella, James Gleason) involve – the guys who helped him rob the bank.

The Good Men Project Article by Murat Oztaski

“Man-to-Man With John Heard” http://goodmenproject.com/featured-content/man-to-man-with-john-heard/

Below are article excerpts:

Alexia Melocchi, Stealing RosesProducer: “We don’t really see lasting relationships in movies today,” said producer Alexia Melocchi. “It’s part of what drew me to the film. It’s a very intimate story, and it’s a different perspective on love than what’s largely seen today.” “It’s about what life is like in America today,” added Melocchi. “It’s a slice of life film, with drama and comedy and everything else life is about.”

Oztaski: What first interested you in Stealing Roses , first drew you to the project? John Heard : That I read the script and it was about a relationship between a man and a woman who had been together and who were very much in love with each other. That kind of devotion I don’t normally see in a movie. I guess it’s a hard thing to sustain with the kind of conflict you see in other scripts, with broken relationship movies, where the conflict is within the relationship. What drew me to this script was that the conflict was coming from the outside world rather than threatening their love for one another. And their love for one another sustains them right up until the moment when, well, she dies.

We pay a lot of attention in the press to all the breakups and the movie stars going from one to another, the drugs and alcohol affecting our lifestyles and ending up in rehab and a gossipy sort of take of two people who try to make a go of it. But we don’t have too many prototypes out there of people who try to make a go of it and actually succeed. So, I thought, really, that this was a love story.

Oztaski: Did the healthcare issues raised in the film draw you to the project as well? John Heard: Definitely. Well, health-insurance issues have been tabled for a while. We don’t hear much about that because we’re hearing about the deficit, mostly. But when we started making the movie we were still very much in the health insurance crisis, the fact that however many millions of Americans aren’t insured.

This guy, Walter, has worked all his life but can’t afford to take care of his wife as she’s dying of cancer. So, that, that story, made it easy—I’m pretty political so that was a sure thing for me to say, “I want to do this.” But, again, it wasn’t high or aloof, it was just this average guy. It was simple and heartfelt. It didn’t go into how the industry is filled with a bunch of crooks, or how this insurance company or that insurance company is ripping people off, how they’re making sure that people don’t get the kind of care they need so that they can realize their profit margin, or blah blah blah. It didn’t elaborate, and it didn’t need to. It was all basically in the context of a marriage, of loving one another, of taking care of each other. He does what he has to do in that respect, regardless. I don’t know if it’s going to work. I hope it does, because I was in every scene and I’m self-conscious. But seemed like a very heartfelt, honest, good script.

Oztaski: What is most powerfully communicated from the story of the Domas family? John Heard : What comes through is the love between Walter and Rose and [their son] Johnny, and the bond between them all. Well, you know, they don’t have a fight. They don’t argue. They don’t contest one another’s thinking. They’re there for each other. They take one another’s part. They understand each other. The idea of the relationship is not conflicted. It’s a lot of back and forth, and if that requires this man’s absolute devotion to his wife, then so be it.

What I see on television with Everybody Loves Raymond is the way the wife is always kicking him in the balls. You know, Roseanne is always making fun of fat boy. We’ve kind of anointed women as the boss of relationships. And I don’t know if that’s a little too much Oprah, and a little too much daytime television, telling women that they know exactly what they’re doing and that we [men] are just a bunch of jerks.

So, for me, the movie was an opportunity to say, “My wife doesn’t treat me that way and I don’t act that way. When I do she straightens me out, and when she does I straighten her out.” It’s just a sort of mutual give and take. I didn’t feel like anybody was pulling any power trips.

Oztaski: So would you say it was a more realistic take on marriage, at least a more fair take, one that didn’t have any pretense? John Heard : You know, in my industry that’d be hard to exemplify. But it’s certainly not what we see on Extra and ET . It’s not what we get sold. It’s not what we get exposed to.

I don’t really know what a 10-year-old or a 15-year-old would get out of watching the role behavior of a husband and wife today, whether it’s per television or per films. Most everything is about sex, and/or violence, and this [movie] is none of that. There’s none of that in it. It may be silly, it may be farfetched, it could be completely unrealistic. But at the very core of it, the relationship, and the love between Walter and Rose, is very much intact all the time. It’s the engine that promotes whatever else happens. His concern for her, her concern for him being concerned for her, justifying him doing what he eventually tries to do—it’s all between them.

Even when he goes and he asks his friends to participate, they say, “Oh, for Rose? You want us to go rob a bank for Rose? Why didn’t you just say that? You want us to go commit a felony because you’re in love with your wife. OK, now we understand.” As opposed to someone jumping up and saying, “Walter, are you out of your mind?” There seems to be a very complicit understanding amongst every character in the movie that Walter loves Rose and Rose loves Walter, and that’s how it should be.

Oztaski: What kind of man is Walter Domas? Obviously he’s devoted, and loyal, but he’s also a failure in a lot of ways. His business couldn’t make it, and he can’t provide for his family. He’s now cleaning homes with his wife, which seems an odd role for a man to play, at least traditionally. How does he feel about himself? John Heard: The fact that he’s cleaning homes with his wife, the fact that he’s willing to do what he needs to do to make a buck to have his family be intact, seems to supersede any self-denigration, or self-criticism, or self-consciousness on his part, that he’s a failure. It’s not Death of a Salesman . It’s not Willy Loman sitting around hating himself. You’re not going to judge him, the way it seems to me. It doesn’t lend itself to evaluating him in any other way except to say that he’s totally devoted to his marriage and his wife and his family. If he has to clean toilets, he’ll clean toilets. They’re a team, and they like being together. It doesn’t matter what they do. The essence of it is that whatever they do, they’re going to do it together.

Spunkybean.com Article by EJ Feddes “Stealing Roses – A Talk with Megan Clare Johnson” http://www.spunkybean.com/stealing-roses-a-talk-with-megan-clare-johnson/

Below are article excerpts:

Feddes: If I’m not mistaken, this is your first feature both as a writer and director. Was that intimidating? Megan Clare Johnson: No, it wasn’t intimidating because I felt I knew the story so well having lived with the characters from Stealing Roses for over five years I knew I could direct it and bring my vision to the screen. Also because of my background as an editor in post production (ten years editing commercials in Chicago and Detroit), experience as a screenwriter and producer, and having shot a few videos and commercials I felt pretty well-rounded in all aspects of the filmmaking process. Although obviously I learned a great deal on the set and owe a lot of gratitude to our actors and crew who agreed to participate in the film knowing that I was a first-time director – I guess they had to take a leap of faith also but it really never came up as a topic other then mentioning it was my first feature. We had a great cast and crew so that made my job all the easier. To be surrounded by such experienced actors was a great blessing.

Feddes: These days, there’s a certain amount of controversy inherent in anything that’s even tangentially related to the topic of health care. To what extent did you have that in mind when writing the script? And what inspired you to head into this territory – is there a personal connection or were you motivated by the way it’s been dominating the discussion ? Megan Clare Johnson: Overall, Stealing Roses is a love story and the catalyst for the conflict is that the main characters, a couple in their early sixties, don’t have health care insurance causing the lead character, Walter, to rob a bank with his eccentric friends, when his wife Rose gets cancer and they need money for her treatments – and Walter’s son, a cop, tries to stop him. I, personally, am appalled that we have 46 million Americans without health care coverage and began thinking what choices would a person make at the age of my lead character, 61 years old, to save their life partner. Walter tries to do all the right things but feels desperate. I wrote the script 6 years ago so I don’t know if I had controversy in mind, and couldn’t predict that we would have the political/social climate we have right now, but the topic is close to my heart and that’s what writers do – write things that they connect with and want to delve into and explore.

I tend to write family films and comedies so the humor that is in the film (and there is a lot which John Heard, Cindy Williams and our cast perform brilliantly) is a part of our character’s personalities and the way they get through life, marriage and crisis – although the serious moments in the film are captured nicely.

So part of the connection I had in writing this script was a personal belief that we need to do a better job taking care of each other in America regarding health care access and wanting to tell a love story about a couple who’s age you don’t see represented often in films these days – that being a couple in their 60′s. The film is largely about choices – all the characters, Walter the husband, Rose, his wife, Johnny, their son a cop, all are making choices and dealing with love and fear in their own way. Family dynamics are fascinating to me and I enjoyed writing and bringing these odd, offbeat, and lovely characters to life.

Feddes: Along those lines, what do you want people to take away from the movie – do you want them to focus on the story of these people or are you hoping to make viewers think about the bigger issues here? Megan Clare Johnson: Foremost, I want people to enjoy the movie – laugh, connect to it, empathize, find themselves or people they know in this film’s characters. We all have our own health care stories – of our friends and families that suffered from cancer and many friends and families that are enduring financially hard times. If the audience comes away with connecting with the love story between Walter and Rose, or the father/son dynamic of the story or thoughts on why Walter robs a bank – right, wrong or why he would even have to – and this actual catalyst is very much a reality of our times right now (I mean we have all read stories in the paper about people robbing banks just to go back to jail to receive healthcare) then I will feel satisfied. If this causes many people to talk and have a dialogue about bigger issues we have in our country about healthcare then by all means I hope my film can help cause and start more discussion on the topic. But mostly I want to entertain, make people feel, laugh and have a moment with these characters. I enjoy being with these characters and I hope others do also.

Feddes: Can you tell us anything about the WeStealRoses campaign? Where can our readers go if they’re interested in participating? Megan Clare Johnson: Yes, our WeStealRoses campaign is a way we can have a dialogue with our audience and fans. We are inviting anyone that has a health care story of a friend/family member dealing with cancer or really any serious illness that they want to share – they can share any aspect of it on our movie website – such things as; how they dealt with the serious illness, lessons learned, stories of support or stories of difficulties if they also had financial issues when trying to pay for their medical treatments. Really it’s a way to share and connect on any of these interrelated topics. There’s so much that happens when a loved one gets diagnosed with a serious illness – feelings of love, fear, guilt, long-seeded family issues, secrets get revealed, true feelings emerge, panic over insurance coverage if that’s an issue, etc. Support from your family, friends, and community can come into play sometimes beautifully and sometimes not so well. But we all can acknowledge that we have been affected by health issues in some way personally with our own health or friends’ and families’ health. We’re giving an opportunity for people to connect on this topic – especially if people think we could be handling this all better – that’s not just interpreted in a political way – just a “better way” of taking care of those in need of help. As a writer of stories, I love hearing other people’s stories which can inspire us, educate us, or make us want a better outcome if it is a tragic ending – but sharing as we all know is cathartic.

Our film fans are invited to share their health care stories on our website blog at www.StealingRoses.com

About The Cast

John Heard (as Walter) John Heard is the quintessential “actor’s actor” on both stage and screen. A graduate of Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts, John Heard began his career on the stage, winning multiple awards in both Chicago and New York, including a 1976-77 Theatre World Award and Obie Awards for his off-Broadway performances in “Othello” and “Split”.

His early screen successes include performances in “Cutter’s Way”, “Chilly Scenes of Winter”, and as Jack Kerouac in “Heart Beat.” From there, he built his career with starring roles in films such as “Big”, “The Pelican Brief”, “Beaches”, “Home Alone”, “Awakenings”, “ Deceived”, “In the Line of Fire”, “Pollock”, “The Great Debaters”, and HBO’s “Too Big to Fail.”

John has turned in many memorable performances on the small screen as well. He was nominated for a Cable ACE Award for Best Actor in a TV Movie for his 1987 performance in “Tender is the Night”, and his recent turn in the 1999 season of “The Sopranos” earned him an Emmy nomination for Guest Actor in a drama series. On the small screen, most recently, he can be found in recurring roles on “Prison Break”, “Southland”, “Entourage”, and “The Chicago Code”.

Cindy Williams (as Rose) Cindy Williams has enjoyed the privilege of working with extraordinary directors, including Francis Ford Coppola, George Lucas and George Cukor. Though Williams has achieved much success in her film career, she is most recognized for her role as “Shirley Feeney” in the ABC-TV situation comedy LAVERNE AND SHIRLEY.

A woman of many talents, Williams’ stage credits include the national tour of GREASE playing Miss Lynch, the national tour of DEATHTRAP with Elliot Gould, MOON OVER BUFFALO portraying the role of Charlotte Hay, STEEL MAGNOLIAS as Ouiser Boudreaux, and in 2007 she made her Broadway debut in the role of Mrs. Tottendale in the award- winning musical THE DROWSY CHAPERONE.

Born in Van Nuys, CA, Williams’ first became interested in acting during high school. After graduation, she attended L.A. City College where she majored in theater arts. After leaving college, she landed her first television roles on ROOM 222, NANNY AND THE PROFESSOR, and LOVE AMERICAN STYLE. Recent guest-starring roles include LAW AND ORDER SVU, GIRLFRIENDS, SEVENTH HEAVEN, 8 SIMPLE RULES, and LESS THAN PERFECT.

Her first film role was for Roger Corman in GAS-S-S-S, starring Talia Shire, Ben Vereen and Bud Cort. She then appeared with Maggie Smith in TRAVELS WITH MY AUNT, directed by George Cukor. Next she co-starred with Ron Howard, Richard Dreyfuss and Harrison Ford in AMERICAN GRAFFITI directed by George Lucas, a low-budget film that went on to become a box office smash and film classic, and which garnered her a British Films nomination for best supporting actress. Following AMERICAN GRAFFITI, Williams played a pivotal role in Francis Ford Coppola’s THE CONVERSATION, starring Gene Hackman. While raising her family, Cindy co-produced “Father of the Bride I & II.

Mark Famiglietti (as Johnny) Mark attended New York University as a drama major, where he studied with the Atlantic Theatre Company. He was soon cast as Deering High's resident heartthrob Nick Hammer (1998-2000) on NBC’s Saturday morning teen sitcom “Hang Time” and as Scout Calhoun (2000), the roommate/best friend of Rodney Scott's character and a privileged senator's son who falls for a blue collar girl (played by Kate Bosworth) on The WB's teen drama “Young Americans” a “semi- spinoff” of “Dawson's Creek.”

The next years, Mark was cast as Mike Mulvaney Jr. in the Emmy-nominated TV- movie version of Joyce Carol Oates' novel, We Were the Mulvaneys (2002; starring Beau Bridges and Blythe Danner), and Mark Hoeger's romantic comedy Full Ride (2002; with Meredith Monroe, Riley Smith and Bob Cady). He also had a recurring role as Jarod on Fox’s action/crime-drama series “Fastlane” and was cast opposite Arnold Schwarzenegger in the blockbuster movie Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines (2003). In the sequel to The Terminator (1984) and Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991) that also features Nick Stahl, Claire Danes and Kristanna Loken, Famiglietti played the fiance of Claire Dane's character. Mark also shared the screen with Sandra Bullock, Julie McMahon and Nia Long in the psychological thriller Premonition.

In 2009, Mark began a recurring role on the ABC series FlashForward. In 2010, Mark began filming opposite 50 Cent, Val Kilmer and James Remar for the indie movie GUN that was released in 2011. In late 2010, Mark filmed the "Untitled Josh Berman Pilot" playing Jamie-Lynn Sigler's fiancé. Other cast members include Lou Diamond Phillips and Sherry Stringfield. In 2011, Mark guest starred on the Fox show Bones. Mark has made regular, recurring and guest appearances totaling over 60 episodes in television shows such as CSI: NY, CSI: Miami, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, and Without A Trace among others.

Josie Davis (as Sally) A bright, energetic and attractive child actor of the 1980s who segued into adult roles in the late 90s, lithe blonde actress Josie Davis is probably best remembered although not immediately recognizable as Sarah Powell, the prim and often overly serious middle child watched over by Scott Baio's "Charles in Charge".

In 1996 she was cast on the popular daytime drama "The Young and the Restless" (CBS), originating the role of Grace Turner. She left the show in 1997 and was accepted the following year into the prestigious Actors Studio. With a 1998 guest role in the series to her credit, Davis joined the cast of the popular Fox primetime soap "Beverly Hills, 90210" with a recurring role as Camille, the love interest of original cast member David (Brian Austin Green). That fall she reteamed with "90210" producer Aaron Spelling, co-starring in the drama series "Titans" (NBC), a return to the steamy "well-to-do family plagued by greed and scandal" genre much-anticipated by the fans of the Spelling classic "Dynasty" (ABC). Stealing Roses Press Kit Copyright © 2012 Stealing Roses Film LLC Page 11 of 25

Bruce Davison (as Mr. Lowell) Bruce Davison has been winning awards for over 30 years. In 1971 he was nominated for a Golden Laurel, Star of Tomorrow, for The Strawberry Statement , and took seventh place. In 1977 he won both a Drama-Logue Award and the Los Angeles Drama Critics Award for Lead Performance for his for work in Streamersa , and another one of each n 1985 for The Normal Heart , having won a New York Drama League Award in 1980 for The Elephant Man .

In 1991 his work in Longtime Companion earned him the New York Film Critics Circle Award for Best Supporting and an Academy Award Oscar Nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Bruce has also been featured in the X-Men films.

Al Sapienza (as Gerry) From his big break playing Ringo in the Broadway hit “Beatlemania” to his latest role as mafia hit man Mikey Palmice (Uncle Junior's right hand man) in HBO’s series "The Sopranos", Al Sapienza’s career has practically elevated the concept of versatility to a Zen art form. The New York native has done and played it all on stage, television and film -- romantic comedy leads, crooked cops, sociopathic killers, faithful sidekick...from the doorman in "Pretty Woman" to the hapless taxi driver in "Godzilla" who first spots the angry lizard. In an industry which thrives on typecasting, Al Sapienza is one of those rare talents who dares to challenge himself to morph seamlessly into a wide variety of fictional lives.

Hélène Cardona (as Mrs. Russell) A citizen of the United States, France and Spain, Helene Cardona is fluent in English, French, Spanish, German, Greek and Italian. Born in Paris of a Greek mother and Spanish father and raised all over Europe, she studied English Philology and Literature in Cambridge, England; Spanish at the International Universities of Santander and Baeza, Spain; and German at the Goethe Institute in Bremen, Germany. She attended Hamilton College, New York, where she also taught French and Spanish, and the Sorbonne, Paris, where she wrote her thesis on Henry James for her Master's in American Literature. She worked as a translator/interpreter for the Canadian Embassy and the French Chamber of Commerce. She is also a teacher and dream analyst and has appeared in many films.

A graduate of The American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York, she studied with Ellen Burstyn at the Actors' Studio (New York). She performed with The Naked Angels and Ubu Theater Companies in New York. She played Françoise (Fuffi) Drou in Lasse Hallström's Chocolat (2000) and Candy in Lawrence Kasdan's Mumford (1999). For Serendipity (2001), she co-wrote with Peter Chelsom the song Lucienne, which she also sang.

Jude Ciccollela (as Al) Richard Jude Ciccolella is a well-recognized American character actor with film roles include parts in Shakedown (with Peter Weller), The Shawshank Redemption (with Mark Rolston, Bob Gunton, Paul McCrane and Gil Bellows), The Keeper (with Isaach De Bankole), Harrison: Cry of the City (with Jeffrey Nordling), Boys on the Side, Night Falls on Manhattan (with Colm Feore), Mercury Rising (with Robert Maffia), Beloved (with Albert Hall), Flawless (with Karina Arroyave, Rory Cochrane, and Vincent Laresca), High Crimes (with John Billingsley), Star Trek: Nemesis (with Alan Dale), Down With Love, The Terminal (with Cas Anvar), the 2004 Director's Cut DVD of Daredevil (with Leland Orser), the 2004 remake of The Manchurian Candidate, Sin City (with Powers Boothe, Michael Madsen and Tommy Flanagan), Last Call, and World Trade Center (with Roger Cross). He also appeared on 1992 James Foley and David Mamet film Glengarry Glen Ross as the Detective. He appeared in the scene where Al Pacino was having an argument with Kevin Spacey about the "six-thousand dollars" owed to him.

He has had guest starring roles in "Law & Order" (with Keith Szarabajka), "It's True" (with Richard Burgi), "The Others" (with John Billingsley), "Falcone" (with Joaquim de Almeida), "NYPD Blue" (with John Billingsley again and Daniel Dae Kim), "ER" (with Paul McCrane), "The Agency" (with Will Patton and Jenny Gago), "The Guardian" (with Gina Torres, Keram Malicki-Sanchez, Robin Thomas, and Taylor Nichols), "CSI: NY" (with Vanessa Ferlito), "Prison Break" (with Keith Szarabajka again, Michael O'Neill, and Randy Flagler) and "NCIS" (with Pauley Perrette). He has also guest starred as Principal Raymond in "Everybody Hates Chris". He is also a singer and songwriter and has published four CDs.

Vic Polizos (as Charlie) Vic Polizos has been a professional actor for over 30 years. He has appeared on Broadway, in over 80 television shows and 30 feature films. His photography was recently exhibited at The Daniel Stern Studio in The Culver City Arts District of Los Angeles. Vic has appeared in Modern Family, Desperate Housewives, CSI, Boston Legal and NYPD Blue.

James Gleason (as Marco) James starred as "Jimmy McQuinn" in the series THE DAYS AND NIGHTS OF MOLLY DODD. He guest starred in the role of "Father Michael O’Mear" in the CBS series FIRST MONDAY. Other recurring guest roles include BROOKLYN BRIDGE, MALIBU SHORES, ALMOST HOME, FRASIER, TOUCHED BY AN ANGEL, DIAGNOSIS MURDER and THE FRESH PRINCE OF BEL-AIR. Film credits include AMERICAN DREAMZ, MOTHER, REVENGE OF THE NERDS, SIMONE, WHY DO FOOLS FALL IN LOVE, FATAL INSTINCT, THE WORLD’S GREATEST LOVER and FOR

RICHER FOR POORER.

James is a DRAMA-LOGUE, OVATION and L.A. DRAMA CRITICS CIRCLE AWARD winner for his performance as "Charlie McFadden" in Interact’s production of COUNSELLOR-AT-LAW. He is also a winner of Valley Theatre League's Artistic Director Achievement Award for his role as "Nathan Detroit" in Interact's Guys and Dolls. He received the L.A. DRAMA CRITICS CIRCLE AWARD for his role as "Yepikhodov" in THE CHERRY ORCHARD. James appeared in THE BATTLE FOR THE PENTAGON PAPERS, CAINE MUTINY COURT MARTIAL and The Great Tennessee Monkey Trial at award-winning Los Angeles Theatre Works. An active member of the Groundlings for over 15 years, James appeared in several productions. Broadway credits include leading roles in THE GUYS IN THE TRUCK with Elliot Gould and THE MISER with Phillip Bosco. Off-Broadway credits include SPEED- THE-PLOW, BETTER DAYS, BEDROOM FARCE, BLANCO and CURSE OF THE STARVING CLASS with Kathy Bates & Eddie Jones. James originated the role of "Charlie Brown" in the musical SNOOPY.

Stelio Savante (as Joey)

Born and raised in Cape Town South Africa, Stelio Savante was chosen by both Barry Ronge (South Africa's premier film critic) and Showbiz Report's Nicky Greenwall (E!)as one of South Africa's most promising actors in Hollywood. His affinity for languages and accents have landed him a staple of high profile film and television roles.

Made his prime-time television debut in "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" (1999) episode 'Night' as Bosnian Muslim fundamentalist Milan Zergin (guest star lead). Stelio moved to Los Angeles in 2006 when he was offered ten episodes and the recurring role of 'Steve' on "Ugly Betty" (2006),(season one). Ugly Betty's ensemble cast was nominated for a Screen Actors Guild Award 'Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series' in 2007(season one).

He returned to South Africa in 2010 to film A Million Colours (2010) , portraying the role of Major Shawn Dixon which was originally offered to Barry Pepper. First played a South African on prime time TV in 'JJ Abrams' espionage themed series "Undercovers" (2010), as guest lead 'Hollis Kruger'.

Extensive theater credits including the lead role of an Ecuadorian photographer in '110 Stories' at the Geffen Playhouse (Los Angeles) in Feb 2010. All proceeds were donated to the Red Cross Los Angeles as aid to Haiti. Savante also produced the event, directed by Mark Freiburger.

His screenplay, Trust In Her (2011), co-written with Nick Efteriades, is being produced by Tracey E. Edmonds, directed by Alfredo De Villa and cast by John Papsidera. Savante also co stars and serves as producer.

Agnes Olech (as Ginny)

Agnes Olech was born in Bielsko Biala, Poland and relocated with her family to the United States in April of 1994.

Someone who follows the motto," imagination is everything"-- this adventure seeker never sits on the sidelines. It is no wonder that this vivacious talent has her sights set on the top. Agnes has recently been featured as a model in the October 2011 issue of Maxim magazine. She has been a guest on tv shows “Rules of Engagement” and HBO’s “Luck.”

About The Filmmakers

Megan Clare Johnson Producer, Director, Writer - Mama Simba Films Megan Clare Johnson was born in Detroit, Michigan and received her B.A. in Cinema and Photography with a specialization in Film Production from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale.

She pursued her love of storytelling by becoming a film editor in Chicago and Detroit for nine years in which she worked in post-production of national commercials before relocating to Portland, Oregon. Megan will be producing and directing her original screenplay Stealing Roses , a finalist at the Austin Film Festival screenwriting contest, into a feature film in 2012. Megan is the owner of her Production Company – Mama Simba Films.

Exploring the pitfalls and triumphs of human nature, Megan is an author and filmmaker who reaches out to make us think and experience a wide range of emotions through her unique voice. She especially enjoys giving us a relatable perspective on our daily lives. Consistently creating strong characters, with a sharp ear for dialogue found in her writing and films, Megan’s meaningful and mirthful writing delivers stories we can savor and enjoy.

Alexia Melocchi Producer and Partner in Little Studio Films Alexia Melocchi is the Partner of Little Studio Films/Tornado Pictures LLC and handles the independent productions of the Company as well as a diverse clientele comprising of writers, producers, authors and film makers she consults for or represents. She has a career spanning over 15 years in the international marketplace, giving her diverse exposure to all types of films and functions in the entertainment industry. Her experience is in packaging films, setting up Investment Partnerships and/or US and International Distribution releases. She has an expertise in international sales, pre-sales, international acquisitions, domestic and international contracts, and global film marketing strategy.

From 1988 to 1994, as a Partner and Vice President of AXELIA INTERNATIONAL PICTURES she gained incredible experience in sales and acquisitions of independent films. She began her career as an Acquisitions (American movies) Representative in Los Angeles for 11 foreign distributors in Theatrical, Television and Home Video Rights for American movies. Alexia is fluent in English, Italian, Greek, Spanish, French, and some German. She just produced STEALING ROSES with her client director/writer Megan Johnson and is in pre-production on five theatrical films slated for 2012.

Alexandra Yacovlef Executive Producer , CEO of Little Studio Films Alexandra started in the Entertainment business in the early eighties in film financing with Studios such as Columbia and Universal and acted as a consultant for the department of film financing at SMITH BARNEY.

In 1984 she represented International distributors in the USA from 11 different countries. Her fluency in 5 languages and financial experience helped her clients close deals acquiring over 100 films both most of which became worldwide successes. In 1989 she founded her own sales company AXELIA INTERNATIONAL PICTURES selling over 27 films to profit and attending all major film markets and Festivals.

Today Alexandra is involved mostly in the consulting and representation of several high profile International distributors, producers and Entertainment companies structuring financial deals, co-productions, packaging and or sales of International and US film properties. Alexandra worked with all major International Banks and all major Entertainment companies Studios and distributors.

John Heard and Cindy Williams, Associate Producers Our lead actors John Heard and Cindy Williams joined our production as Associate Producers of Stealing Roses.

John Milton Branton, Co-Producer and Line Producer An award-winning writer/director/producer, Mr. Branton’s films were name an “Official Selection” at more than sixty international film festivals from Tunis to Toronto. He received a Best New Director at the Hollywood Underground Film Festival for “Speechless…” which won Best Short at the California Independent Film Festival and two Best Actor Nominations. John Milton was the second unit director for 26 episodes of The New Addams Family Series for Fox TV and was the Dialogue/Dialect Coach for Sandlot 3, also for Fox. He has directed television st commercials and industrial films and worked as a 1 Assistant Director on several features. An award-winning writer, his produced credits include the feature, Black Hole, several shorts and, five plays. John has also directed two feature films “Absolute Fear” and “Dark Power.”

Armand Gazarian, Director of Photography Director/Cinematographer Armand Gazarian has been shooting, directing, producing and editing movies and commercials for over two decades.

His passion for filmmaking began at an early age with the discovery of his father's Super-8 camera. His professional career began as an editor cutting trailers for New World Pictures. He departed to pursue his passion for directing and made "Prison Planet" which was later released by Columbia TriStar.

After making a few other indie films, he forayed into cinematography and worked as the visual Effects cinematographer on Universal Television's "TEAM KNIGHT RIDER". This led to a series of other film and television work and subsequently to shooting FX Network's hit series, "SON OF THE BEACH". Armand Later shot Drew Carey's "GREEN SCREEN SHOW" for WB And Damon Wayan's "THE UNDERGROUND" for ShowTime. He then founded Dynamic Films to continue producing feature films and commercials.

About The Music - Featured Songs and Musical Artists

Songs: “Out of Range”, “Hammer”, “Write a Letter”, “Good Thing”, “Backwards Grin” Written and Performed by Gavin Wahl-Stephens

Song: Rise Up and Shine” Written by Karen Eden, Charissa Nielsen

Performed by: Sundials

Song: “Make A Change” Written by Karen Eden /Paul Trudeau Performed by: Karen Eden

Song: “Arizona” Written by Karen Eden/Paul Trudeau Performed by: Karen Eden

Song: “Some Kinda Life”

Written by Karen Eden, Peter Amato and Marty Wagner

Performed by: Karen Eden

Song: “Beautiful” Written and Performed by Karen Eden and Bonny Southern

Songs: “But My Jaw Won’t Move”, “Give Us Our Time”, “Blue Collar”, “First Love” Written and Performed by Jude Ciccollela

Gavin Wahl -Stephens Songs: “Out of Range”, “Hammer”, “Write a Letter”, “Good Thing”, “Backwards Grin” Written and Performed by Gavin Wahl-Stephens

Gavin’s Bio: In an era when every independent band in the country seems to be moving to Portland, Oregon, it's easy to forget that the city has always had a homegrown sound all its own. Portland native Gavin Wahl-Stephens grew up at the city's blues festivals, grooving at independent gigs and ripping solos over old B.B. King tapes in his Southeast basement. Maturing into a tight progressive blues and Americana outfit with distinctly Northwest quirks, his band has won accolades for its honest sound and roaring live shows, and Gavin has also been touted for personal lyrics that focus on the unavoidable feelings of perpetual motion. "I'm trying to find the laid-back groove of The Band," he explains, "but when it's time to kick down the door we're going for something like Dylan live in '66." Inheritor of the roots-rock tradition and an angular interpreter of American standards, Gavin produces a sound that moves between accessible folk and atmospheric jams -- call it dark, dynamic modern blues.

Karen Eden Songs: “Rise Up and Shine”, “Make A Change”, “Arizona”, “Some Kinda Life”, “Beautiful” Written and Performed by Karen Eden (and various other artists – see above)

Karen’s Bio: Having started her professional career at the tender age of 15 in Australia, Karen Eden has gone on to have a successful singing and writing career in her home country as well as England, Europe and the United States. She has toured, performed and recorded with many artists like Michael McDonald, Kylie Minogue and Chris Rea to name a few. In 1998 she was signed to her own worldwide record deal with Columbia Records in New York, which led to touring with Sarah McLachlan’s famed Lilith Fair alongside artists like Emmy Lou Harris and Sheryl Crow. Now based in Los Angeles, Karen’s voice can be heard on Disney soundtracks, television shows and national commercials. Karen Eden and her writing partner, Charissa Nielsen (the “Sundials”) wrote Rise Up and Shine.

Charissa Nielsen Song: Rise Up and Shine Written and Performed by Karen Eden and Charissa Nielsen

Charissa’s Bio Los Angeles based singer and composer, Charissa Nielsen, is versatile and experienced on stage and in the studio. She is an energetic performer and has shared the studio or stage with JAMIE CULLUM, LEONARD COHEN, PERRY FARRELL, COLIN HAY, and SETH MACFARLANE. A 5-year member of the dynamic salsa group CECILIA NOEL & THE WILD CLAMS.

Her compositions can be heard on film and TV soundtracks including AMERICA'S NEXT TOP MODEL, MTV's 16 & PREGNANT, THIRD WATCH, and JACK AND JILL. And her vocals can be heard on a wide variety of national TV and RADIO commercials for JELLO, NATIONWIDE INSURANCE, COMCAST, X BOX, SCHICK, DISCOVERY CHANNEL and many more. She also recently appeared on DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES, singing beside actress Marcia Cross for the show's Christmas cliffhanger. Charissa and her writing partner, Karen Eden (the “The Sundials”) wrote Rise Up and Shine.

Bonny Southern Song: Beautiful Written and Performed by Karen Eden and Bonny Southern

Bonny’s Bio: Bonny began playing piano at 5 years old and started performing/playing for school, church functions, and writing music by the age of 10. She realized her talent for instrumentals/New Age compositions in the late 80's and produced her first album, Southern Dreams in 1993. This album was dedicated to finding her Birth Family which she was finally able to do in late 1995.

During the next decade she performed, composed and polished her music adding Blues, Jazz, Country and some "Techno" music to prove she could cross the line. In the 90's she worked with Regina Clifton, performing around Georgia and co-writing country and blues tunes, adding to the list of accomplishments.

In 2007 Bonny began working with vocalist, Karen Eden, co-writing emotional, passionate, healing songs, like Beautiful, Sweet Sweet Noel, Rain and Moonlight Blues...as well as additional instrumentals, Breath of Spring, SoulScapes and Lullaby for Zane. All these and more are on her latest album Blu Horizons which is full of love, energy, emotion and passion! Bonny and her writing partner, Karen Eden, wrote Beautiful. Stealing Roses Press Kit Copyright © 2012 Stealing Roses Film LLC Page 21 of 25

Jude Ciccolella Songs: “Give Us Our Time”, “But My Jaw Won’t Move”, “Blue Collar”, “First Love” Written and Performed by Jude Ciccolella

Jude’s Bio: Jude will be familiar to audiences from his work as an actor on TV in 24, as MIKE NOVICK, and as the PRINCIPAL in EVERYBODY HATES CHRIS. His movies include WORLD TRADE CENTER, SIN CITY, STAR TREK: NEMESIS, TERMINAL, PREMONITION, THE MANCHURIAN CANDIDATE, BELOVED, SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION, HIGH CRIMES, HEAD OF STATE, and NIGHT FALLS ON MANHATTAN. He recently appeared opposite Randy Travis in The Wager, and will be playing Tilda Swinton's ex-lover in the award winning film "Julia.”

Jude has either recorded or performed with the great guitarist and engineer, Rick Cunha, the singer- songwriter Stan Corliss, the drummer Bill Severance, the bass players Candy Chase, David Jackson, and John Hatton, all around talent Chad Watson, keyboard man Doug Livingston, accordion and horn player Matt Margucci, guitarist Craig Stull, and mandolin man Steve Rankin. Jude is thrilled to be invited each year to Jim Robert’s Roundup at the Sportsman’s Lodge. He had the privilege, in the fall of 2007, of singing original tunes at the legendary Café Lena in Saratoga, New York. He was accompanied by his good friend and musical mentor, Carver Blanchard. Jude also leads the “Jude Ciccolella Band” in the LA area. Jude is married to the wonderful actress, Sylva Kelegian, and together they take care of a number of fur children.

Stealing Roses

CAST LIST

Walter John Heard Rose Cindy Williams Johnny Mark Famiglietti Sally Josie Davis Gerry Al Sapienza Mr. Lowell Bruce Davison Officer Standley Kevin McCorkle Al Jude Ciccolella Charlie Vic Polizos Marco James Gleason Mrs. Russell Hélène Cardona Joey Stelio Savante Reed Peter Allas Janice Lisa Pescia Chaz Adamo Palladino Ramone Greg Lewis Dr. Miller Kevin Oestenstad Ginny Agnes Olech Sabrina Paris Tanaka Store Counter Girl Samantha Colburn Arlene Susan Flynn Artigas Cesar Manuel Esposito Stuart Cole Carson Pharmacy Assistant Travis Berens Tim John Milton Branton Vera Romina Car Thief #1 Matt Hill Car Thief #2 Kyel Allmaras Maids On Speed #1 Kris Holmes Maids On Speed #2 Nicole Rochell Security Guard Geoff Pilkington Frank Frank Schultz Frankie the Dog Tucker

Stealing Roses CREW LIST

Production Companies Mama Simba Films and Little Studio Films Producer/Writer/Director Megan Clare Johnson Producer Alexia Melocchi Executive Producer Alexandra Yacovlef Associate Producer John Heard Associate Producer Cindy Williams Co-Producer John Milton Branton Co-Producer Robert Haussmann Director of Photography Armand Gazarian Production Designer Gladys Rodriquez Edited by Darlene Haussmann

Line Producer John Milton Branton Unit Production Manager Dave Marion 1st Assistant Director David Michael Harwell

1st Assistant Camera Jackie Moonves 1st Assistant Camera Ben DeSouza 1st Assistant Camera Christopher M. Rutkowski

2nd Unit Director of Photography (Portland) Peter Fuhrman

Wardrobe Ambre Wrigley Wardrobe Assistant Kris Holmes

Key Hair and Make-Up Artist Krishna Johnson

Casting Alexia Melocchi Casting Assistant Lauren Taylor

2nd Assistant Director Matt Hill 2nd 2nd Assistant Director Phillip Powell

Script Supervisor Sara Sposito

Property Master Erika Hood Set Construction Spencer Trent Set Dresser Ashley Hasenyaeer Set Dresser William Wee Set Dresser Adam Saada Art Production Assistant Alex Rose Location Sound Mixer Martin Kittappa Boom Operator Brandon Pert Boom Operator Paul Gonzales Boom Operator Jonathan Hance

CREW LIST CONTINUED

Gaffer Chuck Lewis Key Grip Gabe Malikian Key Grip Jared Threatt Best Boy Electric Greg Simone Best Boy Electric Flavio Buenrostro Best Boy Electric Philip Narvaez Best Boy Electric Alan Torres Production Assistant Eric Ennon Dog Wrangler Joel Norton Head Trainer Briana Messerschmidt Dog Owner Amy Frazier Studio Trainer Amanda Posen

1st Assistant Editor Armand Gazarian 2nd Assistant Editor Robert Haussmann

Final Sound Mixer Nanotechniq Colorist Robert Haussmann Titles/Opticals Nanotechniq Technical Director John Romant

Electronic Press Kit Director Antonio Lozano Still Photographers Aaron Whitmore (Los Angeles) Greg Wahl-Stephens (Portland)

Craft Services Krystle Rakestraw Catering Chris Holm, Catering 24-7 Eida Artigas, Catering by Eida Production Accounting Paris Tanaka Legal Candice E. Jackson Jerry Carleton, Immix Law Group Publicity Savas Abadsidis

Contact for Sales and Press: Other Contact: Alexia Melocchi, Producer Megan Clare Johnson, Producer/Writer/Director Little Studio Films Mama Simba Films Phone: 310-288-6640 Phone: 503- 804-6983 [email protected] [email protected]

Permission is hereby granted to newspapers and magazines to reproduce these pictures and content on the condition that it is used in connection with direct publicity for the movie in which it appears and that it is accompanied by "©Stealing Roses Film LLC. All Rights Reserved." All other uses require prior written consent of Stealing Roses Film LLC. All photos should give photo by credit to Aaron Whitmore and copyright to Stealing Roses Film LLC.

www.StealingRoses.com