"The Finellis" List of Awards (So Far)
Los Angeles Film Awards • Winner - "Best Comedy" • Winner - "Best Web/TV Series Pilot"
New York City Television Festival • Winner - "Best Television Series" • Winner - "Best Director" - Joris Hermans
Amsterdam World Int'l Film Festival • Winner - "Best Television Series"
Vegas Movie Awards • Winner - "Best Web/Television Pilot • 1st Runner-Up - "Best Song" **
London Independent Film Awards • Winner - "Best Web/Television Pilot"
Rome Film Awards • Winner - "Best Television Series" • Finalist - "Best Song" ** German United Film Festival Berlin • Winner - "Best Television Series "
Prague Int'l Monthly Film Festival • Winner - "Best Web/Television Series "
Peak City Int'l Film Festival • Winner - "Best Foreign TV Series Pilot"
After Hour Film Festival • Winner – "Best Television Series"
South Shore Film Festival • Winner - “Best Comedy SitCom” • Winner - "Best Comedy SitCom Script"
Cult Critic Movie Awards - Calcutta, India • Winner - "Best Web/Television Pilot"
Vesuvius Int'l Monthly Film Festival - Naples, Italy • Winner - "Best Web/TV Series"
Mediterranean Film Festival - Cannes • 1st Runner Up - "Best Television Series"
** All "Best Song" nominations are for "Here I Am Again" from Episode One of "The Finellis" ("The Homecoming") "Here I Am Again" music by Ulf Weidmann with lyrics by Mark Janicello "The Finellis" List of Nominations (So Far)
Cult Critic Movie Awards - Calcutta, India • Finalist - "Jean Luc Goddard Award "Best TV Pilot or Series"
London Independent Motion Picture Awards • Nominee - "Best Pilot Series"
SIMFEST - Bucharest, Romania • Finalist - "Best Entertainment Series"
Berlin TV Series Festival • Semi-Finalist - "Best Comedy Series"
Euro Film Festival Geneva • Nominee - "Best Television Series" • Nominee - "Best Song" Portland Comedy Film Festival • Nominee - "Best Comedy TV Episode/SitCom"
Gold Movie Awards - London • Nominee - “Best Animation" • Nominee - “Best Television Series” • Nominee - “Best Director” • Nominee - “Best Actor” • Nominee - “Best Actress” • Nominee - “Best Screenplay”
DUMBO Film Festival - Brooklyn, NY • Semi-Finalist - “Best Short Form Narrative Film”
Vesuvius Int'l Monthly Film Festival - Naples, Italy • Finalist - “Best Web/TV Series Pilot” • Finalist - “Best Trailer” • Finalist - “Best Script” • Nominee - “Best Actor” • Nominee - “Best Actress” • Nominee - “Best Director” • Nominee - “Best Music”
Assurdo Film Festival - Milan, Italy • Nominee - “Best Screenplay” • Nominee - “Best Editing” • Nominee - “Best Trailer” • Nominee - “Best Poster”
VIP Film Festival - Palermo, Sicily • Semi-Finalist - “Best Web/TV Series” • Semi-Finalist - “Best Trailer”
Upcoming Festivals
American Reality + Doc Fest Melbourne Short Film Festival Annual Copenhagen Film Festival Oz Independant Film Festival Crystal Palace International Film Festival, London New Media Film Festival UK Hollywood Reel Independent Film Festival Santa Monica International Film Festival London International Cinema Festival Sundance Film Festival
"The Finellis" Screeners
Episode One - "The Homecoming" Video: https://vimeo.com/324339688 Password: EPISODEONE
Episode Two - "Dinnertime Disaster" Video: https://vimeo.com/325828429 Password: EPISODETWO
Episode 3 - "Tony's Makeover" Video: https://vimeo.com/327642652 Password: EPISODETHREE
The Best of Season One of "The Finellis" Video: https://vimeo.com/367790054 "The Finellis" Trailers
"Here's Tony" (Theme Song from "The Finellis") Live-Action Trailer https://vimeo.com/326267348
“Here's Tony" (Theme Song from "The Finellis") Animated Trailer https://vimeo.com/315220824
“The Flying Finellis“ (Children's Animation from Episode 1)
https://vimeo.com/315426942 Worldwide Rights Available - 13 x 23 Minutes in 4K UHD
Original Language: English Genre: SitCom with Live Music & Animation Producer: Marjan Content Productions Production Years: 2019/2020
THE STORY BEHIND THE AWARD-WINNING SHOW… It’sIt’s “Mrs. Doubtfire” meets “Goodfellas” meets “Glee”
LOGLINE: To save his family from the mob, Tony Finelli, the famous singer, spent 15 years in prison for a crime he didn`t commit. Upon his release, Tony finds that he has lost not only his wife, children, and home, but also his name, reputation, career – and all his money. Like a clumsy Phoenix trying to rise from the ashes, the eternal optimist sets out on a very bumpy journey to reclaim his life, and win back the love and respect of his family. Unfortunately for Tony, things don’t always work out as planned.
SYNOPSIS: In the 1990’s, Tony Finelli, an Italian-American from New York (Mark Janicello) was a star in Europe. Tony found fame starring in “ELVIS: The Musical” and together with his ever- present manager, Jürgen Drahtseil, turned that initial success into an international singing career.
In 1997, Jürgen was approached by an “Italian Concert Promoter” regarding a big concert for Tony in Sicily. This “promoter” turned out to be an undercover agent working for the German CIA, and leading a secret sting operation to arrest ”Mr. Big“ (Godfather of the Gambaretto Mafia Family), who was under investigation in Berlin for both tax evasion and money laundering. In over their heads and caught between the Mafia and the German CIA, Tony and Jürgen were faced with the choice of either going to prison for Mr. Big or having both of their families murdered by the mob.
”The Finellis“ begins on the day Tony and Jürgen are released from a 15-year sentence in Moabit Prison in Berlin. No one meets them at the gate. Tony returns to his former home wanting to rebuild his life. Unbeknownst to Tony, his Russian ex-wife Tina Finelli had filed for divorce shortly before his release. The former model and stewardess' reputation had been ruined by the scandal surrounding Tony’s arrest. Alone with two children and no income, Tina turned Tony’s mansion into a bed and breakfast. Now, as owner of Tony’s former home, she lives there with their two daughters, Lola and Lena (now 27 and 20 years old), as well as with Tony’s parents, Pete and Bea Finelli and his ancient, Sicilian grandmother ”Nonna“. Four generations of Finellis are living under one roof.
Recently, the maintenance man in Tina’s boarding house quit. Out of love for his family, Tony Finelli, the proud peacock, swallows his pride and takes over the job, hoping to rebuild his life, restart his career and reconnect with Tina and his children. Take Tony’s two left hands, add a helping of total inadequacy, and you have the perfect recipe for the comedic chaos that is ”The Finellis.”
Marjan Content Productions Tel: +49 151 663 627 28 E-Mail: [email protected] MAIN CHARACTERS
TONY FINELLI Italian heritage. A family man who loves his home and his children. Blessed with an amazing singing voice but an average intellect. Tony is also an amateur cartoonist. Mark Janicello
JÜRGEN DRAHTSEIL Tony Finelli’s manager. Serial womanizer who's never had a serious relationship. Curses profusely, and has a fixation with both America and Martin Scorsese movies. Timo Merkhoffer
TINA FINELLI Tony’s ex-wife. Former model. Born in St. Petersburg, Russia. Intelligent. Well-read. Well-educated, but cold as a Russian winter. Bianca Karsten
LOLA FINELLI The ”Big Sister“ to Lena, also acts as the peacekeeper between her warring parents, Tony & Tina. She is somewhat ditzy by nature, but has a heart of gold. Sophie-Rose Middleton
LENA FINELLI The ”Baby“ of the Finelli family, Musically very talented, extremely intelligent, but like her mother, is a cool customer and has great difficulty expressing her emotions. Gabriela Burkhardt
Executive Producer/Author: Mark Janicello Co-Producer: Marco Bischof Produced by: Marjan Content Productions Directed by: Joris Hermanns Season One - Episode Guide Episode 1 - "The Homecoming" - Pilot Episode Episode 2 - "Dinnertime Disaster" Episode 3 - "Tony's Makeover" Episode 4 - "A (Mr.) Big Problem Episode 5 - "Barbie's Dreamhouse Record Company Episode 6 - "A Bird in the Hand" (Part One) Episode 7 - "A Bird in the Hand" (Part Two) Episode 8 - "And Now A Word From Our Sponsor" Episode 9 - "Coffee, Tea or Me?" (Part One) Episode 10 - "Coffee, Tea or Me? (Part Two) - The Musical Episode 11 - "What A Dump" Episode 12 - "The Heat is On" Episode 13 - "The Comeback" - Season Finale "The"The Finellis"Finellis" Season One Episode Guide
Episode 1 – "The Homecoming"
TAGLINE: After spending 15 years in jail for a crime they didn't commit, Tony Finelli and his manager Jürgen Drahtseil, are released from prison and return to Tony's villa in Berlin. They find out that nothing isis thethe wayway theythey leftleft it.it.
SYNOPSIS: Tony and Jürgen are released from Moabit prison and no one meets them at the gate. After walking through Berlin, Tony finally returns to his home to find out that his wife Tina has divorced him and turned his mansion into a “Bed and Breakfast.” His daughter Lola is happy to see him again, but his younger daughter Lena struggles with her feelings for her long-lost father. Tony realizes that he has no money, no job, and after 15 years in prison, he has been forgotten by the music industry. It's a lot to process, but Tony, the eternal optimist, has a plan. Tony and Jürgen get to work re-establishing his singing career. In the hopes of winning back his estranged family, Tony moves into the attic apartment of the villa and takes the janitor's job in his own home to buy time with his ex-wife and children.
MAIN MUSICAL NUMBER: "Here I Am Again"
Episode 2 – "Dinnertime Disaster"
TAGLINE: Tony's parents, Bea and Pete Finelli throw a "Welcome Home" Party for Tony and Jürgen and try to reunite the family the only way they know how – with food. Things don't work out exactly as planned.
SYNOPSIS: Lola and Lena start asking their father Tony uncomfortable questions about the Finelli family history. Tony starts working as the janitor in Tina's Mansion, and tries to impress Tina by painting her hallway. His plan backfires, when more paint lands on Tony than on the walls. Tony's flirting, coupled with his ineptitude, cause Tina to go ballistic. Tony's parents, Bea and Pete Finelli throw a "Welcome Home" Dinner Party for Tony and Jürgen that goes epically wrong, ending in a massive food fight. Nonna, while faking a heart attack to stop the family from fighting, is suddenly overcome by a hallucination of Maria Callas singing to her. Nonna's ruse works. Everyone stops fighting and enjoys a family dinner together.
MAIN MUSICAL NUMBER: "Zombie Heart"
Episode 3 – "The Makeover"
TAGLINE: After 15 years in prison, Jürgen thinks Tony is a bit "rough around the edges" and in desperate need of a complete "Makeover." However, sometimes "Less is More!"
SYNOPSIS: After watching Tony in the fitness studio, Jürgen engages both a rough-and-tumble female fitness guru, as well as a very "extravagant" stylist to help transform Tony. They both try to get him back intointo shapeshape andand modernizemodernize hishis look,look, butbut TonyTony fightsfights themthem toothtooth andand nail.nail. WhenWhen TonyTony walkswalks inin onon LolaLola andand her boyfriend Helmut kissing, he makes a ham-fisted attempt at reasserting himself as Lola's father and throws Helmut out of the house. As clumsy as Tony's fatherly intervention was, it eventually leads to a genuine reconciliation between Tony and Lola.
MAIN MUSICAL NUMBER: "You Are So Beautiful" "The"The Finellis"Finellis" Season One Episode Guide (con't)
Episode 4 – "A (Mr.) Big Problem"
TAGLINE: Tony and Jürgen‘s past catches up with them when "Mr. Big", Godfather of the Gambaretto Mafia Family, makes a surprise visit. Tony and Jürgen are worried that Mr. Big will make them another "offer they cannot refuse."
SYNOPSIS: "Mr. Big" makes a surprise visit to Tina's villa and demands that Tony sing at his favorite niece's wedding. Mr. Big tries to sway Tony and Jürgen with gifts. When they resist his presents, he makes them another "offer they cannot refuse." Tony and Jürgen enlist the aid of their arresting officer, German CIA Agent Thomas Schmitt, as well as Tony's costume designer Gaby Wahrsteiner, to find a way to extract themselves from Mr. Big's clutches. Unfortunately, Mr. Big and his henchmen foil their efforts and Tony and Jürgen find themselves, "caught in a trap."
MAIN MUSICAL NUMBER: "Suspicious Minds"
Episode 5 – "Barbie's Dreamhouse Record Company"
TAGLINE: Sybille Schäfer, a record executive, wants to sign Tony to a new contract, on the "unspoken" condition that Tony also services her in her bedroom. Tony and Jürgen have to figure out how Tony can get the record deal without turning into Barbie's "Ken."
SYNOPSIS: Sybille Schäfer, a millionaire's wife, and wannabe record executive offers Tony a new recording contract, on the "unspoken" condition that Tony also service her in her bedroom. While Tony is discussing the "Sybille Problem" with Pete and Bea, Tina interrupts the family conference and asks Tony to fix a broken window. Tony tries unsuccessfully to win back Tina's affection. Meanwhile, Nonna's dementia takes over more and more of her waking hours as she imagines herself to be Sophia Loren in a musical with Marcello Mastroianni. Finally, Jürgen and Tony hatch a plan where Lola and Lena are instrumentalinstrumental inin gettinggetting SybilleSybille toto cancelcancel Tony'sTony's recordrecord deal.deal.
MAIN MUSICAL NUMBERS: "Everybody Loves You," and "Shop's Closed"
Episode 6 – "A Bird in the Hand" (Part One)
TAGLINE: Jürgen's revolving door of girlfriends and a very unexpected audition lead Jürgen and Tony to discover that perhaps there is more to being a woman than what they ever imagined.
SYNOPSIS: Tony walks into his apartment to find Jürgen "in flagrante" with another of his girlfriends, Louise. Tony leaves Jürgen and Louise and starts work in Tina's garden, when one after the other, Nonna, Bea, Lola and Lena, leave the villa to go to various beauty treatments. Jürgen arrives and tells Tony that he has arranged an audition for a new musical. When they arrive at the casting agent's office, Tony is greeted by Helmut, Lola's ex-boyfriend, who takes his revenge on Tony by sabotaging his audition. While Tony is singing, his thoughts go constantly to Tina. He then returns home to confront her. "The"The Finellis"Finellis" Season One Episode Guide (con't)
Episode 6 – "A Bird in the Hand" (Part One) (continued)
Tina summarily destroys all of Tony's hopes for a reconciliation. Jürgen begs an old girlfriend, Eva to let Tony audition for her next musical. Triumphant, Jürgen runs to Tony to announce his audition for Zaza in "La Cage aux Folles." When Tony refuses to do a role in drag, Jürgen threatens to quit. With Tony in drag and after a few mishaps on their way through Berlin, Tony finally arrives at the theater to discover that Eva is a transgender woman of color. He's gobsmacked.
MAIN MUSICAL NUMBERS: "Can't Seem To Write A Love Song"
Episode 7 – "A Bird in the Hand" (Part Two)
TAGLINE: Jürgen and Tony are confronted with some difficult choices as they confront their own prejudices regarding life, love, and women.
SYNOPSIS: Tony finds out that Eva's husband, Jorge, was in the Army with his father Pete. Jorge then plans to visit Pete who he has not seen in almost 50 years. Meanwhile, Pete is trying to make Bea's TV Internet-ready, when Nonna imagines that she has been kidnapped by Simon le Gre and is finally rescued by the Incredible Hulk. Since Tony came out of prison, Tina feels uncomfortable in her own home and goes to Pete and Bea's apartment to talk about Tony. Against Pete's wishes, Bea tells Tina that Tony still loves her. Lola mistakenly thinks Lena is pregnant. Meanwhile, back at the theater, Tony is so intimidated by Eva, that he is ruining his audition. While talking to Eva, he is forced to confront his pre-conceived ideas about sexuality. At the end of their discussion, Tony realizes that he and Eva actually have a tremendous amount in common.
MAIN MUSICAL NUMBER: "I Am What I Am"
Episode 8 – "And now a word from our Sponsor"
TAGLINE: Tony and the rest of the Finellis find out that secretly, Tina has had a boyfriend for the last six months. Everyone's life is turned upside down by Tina's "Sponsor."
SYNOPSIS: Tony dreams that he and Tina get back together and wakes up in a panic. Meanwhile, Nonna has locked herself into Pete and Bea's bathroom and it takes the entire Finelli family to coax her to come out. Lena walks into Tina's bedroom to find her there with her boyfriend Pierre, who she has secretly been dating for the last six months. All are embarrassed. Lena accuses her mother of lying to her and leading Tony on. Tony tells Jürgen about his "getting back together with Tina" dream. Jürgen tells him it's time for him to get over Tina and move on with his life. Tony decides to find another job and move out of Tina's house. However, he discovers that having a criminal record makes it nearly impossibleimpossible forfor himhim toto findfind otherother work.work. TonyTony callscalls hishis friendfriend MikeMike whowho comescomes overover toto commiseratecommiserate withwith Tony. While they are talking, Lena tells her father about Tina's boyfriend Pierre. Tony is crestfallen.
MAIN MUSICAL NUMBERS: "Whatever Tina Wants" and "Caruso" "The"The Finellis"Finellis" Season One Episode Guide (con't)
Episode 9 – "Coffee, Tea or Me?" (Part One)
TAGLINE: Tony meets Sunny Michels, a beautiful, quirky woman who owns a local bakery. Sunny makes Tony finally start to forget Tina.
SYNOPSIS: Tony has to digest that Tina has a new man in her life. Tina and Pierre try to figure out how to tell the rest of the family, especially Lola. Tony, very upset, goes upstairs to speak to his parents and catches them in bed together. Tony's unexpected intrusion leads to a very awkward situation for everyone. Eventually, everyone calms down and starts discussing the never-ending "Tina problem." Tony decides that he has to give up on Tina once and for all. Agent Schmitt summons Jürgen to a meeting. He has a plan to finally send Mr. Big to jail forever and enlists Jürgen's help. When he introducesintroduces JürgenJürgen toto HyacinthHyacinth lala Veta,Veta, hishis undercoverundercover agentagent inin Mr.Mr. Big'sBig's organization,organization, itit isis lovelove atat firstfirst sight for Jürgen. Lola angrily confronts Tina and Pierre. Tony applies for a job at a bakery run by Mike's friend, Sunny Michaels, a beautiful, quirky woman. Sunny's sense of humor and happy disposition is exactly what Tony needs at the moment and for a few minutes, he starts to forget Tina.
MAIN MUSICAL NUMBERS: "Bitter," "The Candy Man"
Episode 10 – "Coffee Tea or Me? (Part Two) – The Musical
TAGLINE: In the Musical Episode, "The Finellis" sing about how love has thrown a monkey wrench into all their lives.
SYNOPSIS: Lola and Lena are shocked about their mother lying to them. Tina is upset at Lola and Lena's reaction to Pierre. When Pierre tries to comfort her, she begins to have doubts about Pierre's true intentionsintentions andand arrangesarranges toto havehave PierrePierre followed.followed. Meanwhile,Meanwhile, Mr.Mr. BigBig hashas fallenfallen head-over-heelshead-over-heels forfor Hyacinth. In accordance with her and Agent Schmitt's ruse, he and his henchmen begin planning her birthday party, where Tony should perform. After driving Hyacinth home, Agent Schmitt admits that he has secretly been enamored with Hyacinth for years and is now distraught because Jürgen and Hyacinth are together as a couple. Tony and Jürgen are both infatuated with their respective partners and start talking about their respective futures. On his way home from work, Tony realizes that Sunny has made him feel truly happy for the first time in many years, while Bea and Pete recall their first date and realize how fortunate they are to have each other.
Nonna's fantasy life takes on ever-greater dimensions when she imagines herself dancing with the Incredible Hulk. In a rare moment of clarity, Nonna realizes the extent of her illness. She is lovingly comforted by Bea.
Major Musical Numbers: Tina: "You should hear how she talks about you" Lola and Lena: "So What?" Mr. Big: "Shaddap You Face" Agent Schmitt: "Without You" Jürgen and Hyacinth: "Queen of the Night" Tony and Sunny: "Whole Lotta Shakin' Going On" Pete and Bea: "Til There Was You " Tony: "The Journey." "The"The Finellis"Finellis" Season One Episode Guide (con't)
Episode 11 – "What a dump"
TAGLINE: Tina's "Sponsor" dumps her for a 25-year-old University Student. She is furious and wants to exact revenge... on Tony.
SYNOPSIS: Lola and Lena are furious with their mother for lying to them and scheme to find any way to sabotage Tina and Pierre's relationship. Tony returns from Sunny's to find Tina sitting alone. When Tina tries to address Tony about Pierre, he stops her, and tells her that he's planning on moving out of the villa as soon as possible. Tina is dumbfounded. Mr. Big summons Jürgen and engages Tony to sing at Hyacinth's birthday party. However, Mr. Big is unaware that Jürgen is already playing his role in Agent Schmitt's upcoming sting operation. Much to Pete's dismay, Jürgen then convinces Tony to play along with Agent Schmitt and the sting operation, and to use the opportunity to make a big comeback concert. When Pete attacks Jürgen for involving Tony with the mob again, Tony finally reveals the real reason he went to prison. Pete gives Tony and Jürgen his blessing. While Hyacinth keeps using all her wiles to fool an unsuspecting Mr. Big, Tony revels in the idea of finally getting his revenge on the Gambaretto family. Tina confronts Pierre about his infidelity with a 25-year-old University Student and breaks up with him. When Bea comes upon a distraught Tina, she attempts to comfort her, and then encourages her to try and win Tony back.
MAIN MUSICAL NUMBER: "Little Boy"
Episode 12 – "The Heat is On"
TAGLINE: Tony and Jürgen are under a lot of pressure as they prepare for Tony's big "Comeback" Concert. Their respective relationships with Sunny and Hycinth are experiencing "growing pains."
SYNOPSIS: Jürgen and Hyacinth's night of passion is rudely interrupted by Agent Schmitt, who informs Hyacinth that Mr. Big's henchmen are about to visit her at her apartment to take her to Mr. Big's office. Finally alone with Mr. Big, Hyacinth informs him that she is expecting his child. At exactly the same time, at Sunny's bakery, Sunny is telling Tony that she thinks she is pregnant. Both men are taken by surprise and finish their conversations with their respective partners by getting their faces smacked. While Bea and Pete prepare for Pete's army friend Jorge's visit to their house, Nonna and Lola spend time together watching "The Incredible Hulk" on television. When Jorge finally arrives, Bea and Pete are in shock upon meeting Jorge's wife Eva, a transgender woman of color. What sets out as a simple reunion of old pals turns into a mutual appreciation of the colorful ways of love. Meanwhile, Tony is rehearsing for his big comeback concert. When Sunny and Tina unexpectedly arrive simultaneously at the rehearsal studio, Tony is forced to confront his true feelings for both women. In a flashback sequence, a very emotional Tony remembers his very first meeting with Tina. The situation moves from sublime to absurd when Sunny reveals to Tina that she is pregnant.
MAIN MUSICAL NUMBERS: "The Wonder of You" and "Love Will Never Die" "The"The Finellis"Finellis" Season One Episode Guide (con't)
Episode 13 – "The Comeback" – Season Finale
TAGLINE: At Tony's first major concert since his release from prison, Tony and Jürgen take back control of their lives from Mr. Big for the first time in 15 years.
SYNOPSIS: Bea, Pete, and Nonna are preparing themselves to attend Tony's big comeback concert. Lola, Lena as well as Pete and Bea are discussing their doubts about the plausibility of Sunny's pregnancy. Mr. Big, in a conversation with his clueless henchmen, reveals that Hyacinth cannot be pregnant as he has had a vasectomy and cannot have children. Mr. Big then plans his revenge now that he knows that Hyacinth is an undercover agent.
Agent Schmitt and Hyacinth explain to a very skeptical Tony and Jürgen the full extent of their preparations to use Tony's comeback concert to frame Mr. Big and send him to prison once and for all. While struggling through a choreography rehearsal for the show, Tony gets an unexpected visit from Tina who wants to make up with Tony. Just as Tina is kissing Tony, Sunny bursts in on them causing a terrible scene. Agent Schmitt pays Tony an ominous visit backstage before the concert, while Hyacinth and the rest of Schmitt's undercover agents prepare their sting operation. As Tony takes the stage, Schmitt and his agents arrest Mr. Big, and "The Finellis" take their audience on the wildest ride of the season.
MAIN MUSICAL NUMBERS: "Highway To Hell" and "I Am A Man" MeetMeet thethe CastCast ofof Mark Janicello Series Creator, Author, Lyricist, Execuctive Producer, and Tony Finelli
As the second of three brothers, Mark Janicello learned how to take his licks... but also learned how to dish them out. Born in Brooklyn, New York and currently living in Berlin, Germany, Mark made his first solo appearance as a boy soprano at four years old. He's been on stage or in front of a camera ever since.
In his amazing and eventful career, he first conquered both the New York Subways and the very critical New York audiences as a street singer, winning „America’s Best Street Performer 1992.“ His $15.000, prize-winning appearance in New York's Grand Central Station featured multiple musical and vocal styles and was based on the idea: „What if Elvis never died but just turned into Pavarotti?“ He then made the leap to established theaters and concert halls performing in Carnegie Hall, Avery Fisher Hall, The Zürich Opera House, The Apollo Theater in Harlem, The Grand Ole Opry and The World Music Festival Copenhagen among many, many others.
After over a decade of pounding the pavement in New York, Mark's „overnight success“ came playing the King of Rock'n'Roll in „Elvis: A Musical Biography.“ His critically-acclaimed performance in that production made his name throughout Europe. In the meantime, he has performed in 43 countries on 5 continents playing leading roles in over 24 Musicals, 30 Operas and 12 Plays. He has recorded 37 CDs in every conceivable musical style; worked with Oscar-, Tony-, Grammy- and Emmy-winners and has filmed over 90 film, television, commercial and corporate projects. As a writer, Mark's 2011 Autobiography „Naked in the Spotlight“ was published in both German and English. He has written 6 new musicals, worked as a critic-at-large for BroadwayWorld.com, and had his own column on the marketing of Art and Artists in „Hoop Doop“ Magazine.
From 1998 until 2016, Janicello produced Musicals, Theatrical- and Corporate Events under the corporate banner of LaRaven Productions, which was incorporated in Amsterdam. In 2010 and 2011, both LaRaven Pubishers and Gallery LaRaven Art Galleries were added to mix of LaRaven Productions Product Lines. In 2016, Mark Janicello made the move from live- and theatrical events to filmed entertainments. Janicello's new corporation, Marjan Content Productions UG was founded in 2019 and “The Finellis” is the first TV Series from this new corporate entity. “The Finellis“ which has filmed a “proof of concept“ episode, starts production of it's 13-episode first season on January 14, 2019, and is currently being offered on the international television market.
www.markjanicello.org Bianca Karsten as (Chris)Tina Finelli
Bianca Karsten was born in Berlin, Germany. She is an actress and singer who works regularly both onstage and on camera and has appeared on the legendary German Soap Operas Gute Zeiten Schlechte Zeiten, and Unter Uns, as well as on primetime shows like Anna und die Liebe, SOKO Wismar and many, many others.
She has made numerous films and TV Movies and also appears regularly at the Komödie on Kurfürstendamm in Berlin. A talented country singer as well, Bianca makes regular concert appearances nationwide.
http://agenthur-matthies.com/karsten-bianca
Timo Merkhoffer as Jürgen Drahtseil
Timo Merkhoffer was born in Braunschweig, Germany. After moving to Los Angeles in 1995, he started his acting career playing small roles in movies like "Heat" (1995) and TV shows like "Baywatch" (1995), "Melrose Place" (1996) and "Beverly Hills 90210" (1997) while continuing to study with some of the best acting teachers in Hollywood.
In 2000, he returned to Berlin, Germany, where he's been seen playing supporting roles on TV like "Ein Starkes Team," "Verbotene Leibe" and "Unschuldig" as well as numerous TV Movies. Timo has an active career as both actor and model in Commercials and Corporate Videos for companies like Volkswagen and Deutsche Bank, Vodafone, TUI and Volksbank, among others. Music fans may recognize him from his appearance in Annette Louisan's music video “Besonders.” Timo is also a talented singer and guitarist.
www.timomerkhoffer.de Sophie-Rose Middleton as Lola Finelli
"Lola Finelli", Tony Finelli's oldest daughter, will be played Sophie-Rose Middleton. Sophie grew up in Hertfordshire, England. After graduating at 18 from the Emil Dale Academy, Sophie was about to further her studies at the London School of Musical Theatre. However, before she could start, she was offered a leading role on The Disney Fantasy, the Disney Flagship Cruise Ship Working with Disney allowed Sophie to play leading roles in their on board productions, travel the world and gain invaluable professional experience.
In addition to her work with Disney, Sophie has appeared in a few films. She will be making her television series-debut in “The Finellis.”
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm9992341/
Gabriela Burkhardt as Lena Finelli
Gabriela Burkhardt was born in Brasil and spent the first years of her childhood there, until her family emigrated to Germany. As a small child, she began both violin- and piano lessons while simultaneously studying ballet, modern dance and gymnastics. As a gymnast, Gabriela has won numerous tournaments and competitions. Through music and sports, she became increasingly interested in traveling which culminated in her spending a year abroad, living in the USA.
Gabriela has made a number of short films and appeared on numerous German soap operas. “The Finellis” marks Gabriela's first recurring role on a television series.
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm8011402/ Phyllis Pastore as Bea Finelli
Originally from Colorado, Phyllis has spent the last 30 years in the Big Apple. She is a well-known actress and voiceover artist, as well as a very talented cabaret singer both in New York and Europe. She regularly appears at Feinstein’s/54 Below, Don't Tell Mama, and The Duplex Cabaret and Piano Bars in Manhattan and has been a mainstay during an astounding, 26-year, yearly engagement at The Montparnsse Piano Bar in Mykonos, Greece.
She has made numerous short films and played leading roles in commercials. This will be Phyllis' debut playing in a leading role in a television Series.
www.thephyllispastore.com
George Pollock as Pete Finelli
Playing Tony Finelli's long-suffering Italian father, is George Pollock. He has appeared on Broadway, Off- Broadway and in regional theatre as well as on film and TV. Whether he’s a serious, central character or comic relief, George has never had a bad review.
On Broadway, he originated one of the five principle roles, Jobby Rosen, in the Tony-, New York Drama Desk-, and New York Drama Critic’s- nominated Lamppost Reunion, written by Louis LaRusso II. On television, George was Sgt. Pepitone in the PBS docudrama Eye Witness. Soap Opera fans have seen Mr. Pollock featured on One Life to Live and As the World Turns.
Mr. Pollock began his career after having graduated from The Juilliard School. His first appearances were in musicals including Gentlemen Prefer Blondes with Betty Hutton, Paint Your Wagon with Earl Wrightson, Roberta with Edward Everett Horton, South Pacific with Betty White and Georgio Tozzi, My Fair Lady with Sally Ann Howes, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying with Daryl Hickman, Mr. President with Bert Parks, and The Sound of Music.
www.georgepollock.com
ain.htm Trish Osmond as Nonna D'Agostino
Playing the role of Nonna D' Agostino, Tony Finelli's 90- year-old, fanstastic, slightly-demented Italian Grandmother will be the veteran English actress, Patricia „Trish” Osmond.
She was born in 30th of May, 1944 on the Isle of Wight just off the South Coast of England. Trish had her first small speaking part on stage when she was just two years old and took part in English-Speaking amateur theatre as often as possible throughout her life. Whether it was musicals, Gilbert and Sullivan, Shakespeare, Pantomime, Comedies – as long as it was on stage. After raising her family, and returning to a full-time professional career, she has made movies, short films and numerous commercials and has become a regular presence on German television.
www.trish-osmond.com
Nola Hayes as Little Lola Nola Solana Hayes was born with show business in her blood. She is the daughter of award-winning variety artists Sonny and Galina Hayes. As a result of her parents extensive contracts, Nola spent 2 years in Israel, 2 years on the Gold Coast of Australia and even a year in Hawaii.
Nola’s initial interest was in Ballet, but she soon transferred to Rhythmic Gymnastics. More recently, she has dedicated her time to Sport Acrobatics. In this discipline she has already achieved two gold and one bronze medals. Whilst Sport Acrobatics takes the vast majority of her time, after her schooling, she still finds time to paint and draw, an area in which she is very gifted. Nola is making her TV Series-debut in “The Finellis.”
https://www.instagram.com/nola.hys/ Yannick Worring as Little Lena Yannick, one of four siblings, was born in Los Angeles, California in January 2008 to a German Father and a Peruvian mother, both of whom are professional tennis coaches. Before the age of two, Yannick began climbing all over the family home, so her parents signed her up for gymnastics. She began competing in gymnastic competitions at the age of six and did several shows and events with her athletic talents. Parallel to gymnastics, she plays tennis and has won many tournaments.
Last year the Worring Family moved to Berlin at the invitation of the German Gymnastics Federation for Yannick to begin full-time gymnastic training. She is also a good ice skater and rock climber. She speaks English and German fluently, as well as some Spanish, and she wants to learn Russian. She is a very good student and in addition to all her other activities, Yannick has also worked as a model for IVIVA clothing, Athletic DNA and Karma Bikinis. Yannick is making her TV Series-debut in “The Finellis.”
https://www.instagram.com/yannickworring/ www.instagram.com/yannickworring/
Dietmar Wunder as Agent Schmitt You may not recognize his face, but if you live in German-speaking Europe, you certainly know his voice. Dietmar is the German Voice of Daniel Craig as James Bond. Listen to Dietmar as James Bond:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z2J5dq8QmT0 Dietmar synchronizes not only Daniel Craig, but Cuba Gooding Jr., Adam Sandler and many other Hollywood Legends in the German-language Versions of their films. He also narrates many books for „Audible“- Amazon Audio Books, including the recently released „You Are Wanted,“ which has just been turned into a TV Series on Amazon Prime with Matthias Schweighöfer.In „The Finellis,“ Dietmar will be playing Agent Schmitt, a Master of Disguse, undercover Secret Agent who happens to suffer from OCD, working for the German CIA.
http://www.dietmar-wunder.de MARK JANICELLO
Series Creator/Executive Producer/Author/Lyricist/Tony Finelli IMDB: imdb.me/markjanicello
www.markjanicello.org www.thefinellis.com www.marjancontentproductions.com
E-Mail: [email protected] Tel: +49 151 663 627 28
LANGUAGES | DIALECTS
English (native), German (near native), Dutch (fluent), Italian (good), Swiss German (working knowledge), French (working knowledge) -- Every American Dialect, RP and Cockney, Italian-, German- and Slavic-accented English
AWARDS Puccini Foundation Grant Awardee “The Finellis” -- Best Television Series – 2019 NYC TV Festival – Creator, Author & Exec. Producer “The Finellis” -- Best Television Series – 2019 Mediterranean Film Festival Cannes City of Leipzig Fips Fleischer Music Prize
FILM | TV | COMMERCIALS
FILM 2016 “Die 69 Götter des Höllenfeuers” 1989 “Mozzarella” directed by Dion Schumann |Vincent Woodruf directed by Carey Rothman |Mario 2015 “Der Primus” TV Documentary 1989 “Rooftops” directed by: Erika von Moeller |Lieut. Ernst Hauser -- ARD Germany directed by Robert Wise |Drug Dealer 1989 2014 “Ein Tag wie jeder andere” “Blue Steel” directed by: Thomas Frei |Herr Weissner directed by Kathyrn Bigelow |Policeman 2013 “Sternstunde ihres Lebens” TV Movie 1988 “Spike of Bensonhurst” directed by Erika van Moeller |Lieutenant Rogers -- ARD Germany directed by Paul Morissey |Day Player 2012 “Freddy (Heineken)” (TV Mini-Series) 1988 “Married to the Mob” directed by Peter. van Hoeve |Ralph -- TROS The Netherlands 2012 directed by Jonathan Demme |Bartender “All My Love” 1988 “Shakedown/Blue Jean Cop” directed Directed by Igor. Andreevski |Bob by James Glickenhaus |Drug Addict 1987 2011 “The Conversation” “84 Charing Cross Road” directed by Anton von der Wiel |Cowboy directed by David Hugh Jones |Best Man 1991 “The Hard Way” 1987 “Deadly Illusion” directed by John Badham |Party Guest directed by Larry Cohen |Partygoer)
MARK JANICELLO | RESUMÉ PAGE 1 TELEVISION
2019 “The Finellis” TV SitCom Pilot and Episodes 2, 3 & 4 2015 “Betrugsfälle” directed by J. Hermanns |Tony Finelli/Author/Exec. Producer -- directed by K. Sassmannhausen |Sascha Pantiç -- RTL Germany Network TBA 2015 “Hilf Mir!” 2018 “Late Night Berlin” directed by P. Ressel |Gerry Walker -- RTLII Germany directed by J. Spiecker |Calaf in /“Der Splatteroper” -- ProSieben 2015 “Schneller als die Polizei erlaubt” Germany directed by F. Schmidt |Manuel Weiler -- VOX Germany 2018 “Die Wahrheit über…”. 2015 “Das Aschenputtel Experiment” Directed by: S. Oswald |Online Date -- RBB Germany directed by M. Hawich |Guest Star -- RTLII Germany 2015 2018 “Gin and It” Pilot “Libido Love” directed by A. Myerson |Adrian (NR) --BBC directed by J.Mol |Marc Caccamo - Internet Comedy2014 2018 “Berlin Tag & Nacht” “Verstehen Sie Spass?” directed by diverse directors |Robert Hardy -- RTL II Germany directed by N. Dörler |Martin Dams -- ARD Germany 2016 “The Finellis” 2014 “Stand By Me” (Pilot) directed by M. Janicello |Tony Finelli -- Proof of Concept Episode directed by W. Hebbes |Guest Star -- Calavatra Media (NL) 2016 “Hilf Mir!” 2014 “Achtung, Kontrolle” directed by C. Damaschke |Bruce Heinzberg -- RTL II Germany directed by B. Sommer |Giovanni Bellini -- Kabel EinsGermany 2016 “Akte 20.16” 2014 “Schneller als die Polizei erlaubt” directed by C. Betz |Wilfried W. -- SAT1 Germany directed by F. Schmidt |Ludger Trinkhaus -- VOX Germany 2013 2015 “ Hirschhausens Quiz des Menschens” “Verstehen Sie Spass?” directed by D. Fuß |Marc Thalhäuser -- ARD Germany directed by N. Dörler |Johan -- ARD Germany 2015 “Trips” Webseries 2013 “Auf Streife” directed by J. Wolf |Bill Wendt directed by T. Jebink |Gernot Peters -- SAT1 Germany 2015“Die Celiks” 2013 “Volle Kanne: Wohnen & Design” directed by A. Cherneva |Singing Teacher -- TLCGermany directed by N. Kurzrock |Guest Star -- ZDF Germany 2015 ”In Gefahr” 2013 “Verstehen Sie Spass?” directed by J. Schmidt |Fabrizio Montani -- SAT1 Germany 2015 directed by N. Dörler |British Businessman -- ARD Germany “Hilf Mir!” 2013 ”SAT1 Frühstücksfernsehen” directed byP. Kosic |Dr. Guido Rehbein -- RTLII Germany directed by T. Roth |Agent W. Smith -- SAT1 Germany. 2015 “Mein dunkles Geheimnis” 2012 “Der Mediator” (Pilot) directed by M. Kaleves |Detlef Brahms -- SAT1 Germany directed by M. Schneider |Frank Delay -- RTL Germany 2015 “The Immigrant Experience” 1998+1999 “Hello Vienna, Hello Austria” directed by R. Kopczynski |The American -- Bertelsmann Stiftung directed by numerous Directors |Host/Moderator --TW1 2015 “Die Celiks” Austria directed by A. Cherneva |Chaniqua LeStrange -- TLC Germany
COMMERCIALS & CORPORATE VIDEOS
2019 Lufthansa “Reisekiosk 5,” “Bugs & Mugs” (Voiceover), Weltgesundheits Organization (WHO), Ice Aesthetic ProDub App (Voiceover), Seca Medizinische Messsysteme Göthe Institut, ArVaTo, Rettungsgasse Infospot 2018 Lufthansa "Reisekiosk 3 & 4", Rosetta Stone, Sofatutor, 2015 Abracar, Isper Personnel Service, VOI Handbags, Bauhaus, Viega, The Ripple Maker (Lufthansa), Johnson Valispace Engineering Software & Johnson Attune Knee System
2017 2014-2008 Boston Consulting Group, Ferrero ValParaiso Euromaster, Pro-Shots Photgraphy, Kent Cigarettes, Chocolate, Mercedes Benz AG, Lufthansa "Reisekiosk 1 OCE Copiers, Amsterdam City Goverment &Floribus 2" Investment App, Fidelity Investments, Xenios (8 Commercials as DWI Man); DSM Chemicals, AG, Sylys Surgical Sealant, Köpfer Zahnrad Technik Fleet Financial Services, DSB Bank
MARK JANICELLO | RESUMÉ PAGE 2 FAMOUS THEATERS & IMPORTANT FESTIVALS
HOLLYWOOD -- Shrine Auditorium; NEW YORK-- Carnegie Hall, Avery Fisher Hall, The Atrium at the World Financial Center, Town Hall , The Apollo Theater, Grand Central Station, Times Square; NASHVILLE-- The Grand Ole Opry; ATLANTA – The Fox Theater; DETROIT – The Fox Theater; MIAMI – Lyric Theater; PHILADELPHIA – Merriman Theater; Zürich – Zürich Opera, Kongresshalle, Volkshaus; Opera St. Gallen; LUZERN – Opera House, KKL; VIENNA -- Amadeus Festival, Metropol, Theater Akzent, Wiener Prater, Donau Insel Festival; MUNICH – Deutsches Theater, Komödie im Bayerischem Hof, Oktoberfest; DENMARK -- World Music Festival Copenhagen, Theater Aarhus; TOKYO – Metropolitan Theater, Shinbashi Theater OPERA | OPERETTA | MUSICALS | PLAYS
OPERA (1984-2012) - LEADING TENOR ROLES IN THE FOLLOWING PRODUCTIONS:
“Hänsel und Gretel”(Die Knusperhexe); “La Gran Scena Opera” (2 Seasons as “The Tenor”) “Giovanna D'Arco” (Carlo VII); “Tosca” (Cavaradossi in 3 Productions); “La Traviata” (Alfredo in 2 Productions); “Elisabetta, Regina D'Inghilterra**” (Leicester), “Die verkaufte Braut” (Hans); “Roberto Devereux” (Roberto), “Crossing Brooklyn Ferry*” (The Traveller); “Rigoletto” (Il Duca), “Nuit des Hommes*” (Wilhelm); “Lucia di Lammermoor” (Arturo), “The Man Who Mistook His Wife For A Hat***” “Madama Butterfly” (Pinkerton); (Dr. S. in 2 Productions); “Otello” (Casio); “Trouble in Tahiti”(Jazz Trio), “Cosi fan tutte” (Ferrando)“; “Dido and Aneas” (First Sailor), Little Red Riding Hood*” (The Woodcutter); “Die göttliche Kirmes***” (Doufi); “The Metropolitan Opera's 'Introduction to Opera'” “Hin und Zurück” (Robert); (numerous roles in 2 productions); “Le pauvre Matelot”(Le Matelor); “La Gazza Ladra” (Isacco); “Der Kaiser von Atlantis” (Harlekin, Soldat) ; “Attila” (Ensemble); “Romeo et Juliette” (Benvolio); “La Fille du Regiment” (Ensemble); “Die Frau ohne Schatten” (Der Jungling); “Turandot”(Ensemble); “Linda di Chamounix” (Intendente); *World Premiere Productions **American Premiere Production ***deutsche Erstaufführung
OPERETTA (1984-2012) - LEADING TENOR ROLES IN THE FOLLOWING PRODUCTIONS:
“Die lustige Witwe/The Merry Widow” -- (Danilo in 2 productions / Rosillion in 1 production); ”Orpheus in der Unterwelt” --(Orpheus in 2 Productions); “Der Zarewitsch” (Zarewitsch); “Die Fledermaus” (Alfred); “La Vie Parisienne” (Raoul); “The Student Prince” (The Prince); “Die Csardasfürstin” (Edwin)
MUSICALS (1981-2012) - LEADING TENOR ROLES IN THE FOLLOWING PRODUCTIONS:
“Loving the Silent Tears” (The Italian Tenor); “Be My Love: A Tribute to Mario Lanza” (Mario Lanza); “Charlie: A New Musical” (Charlie in 2 Productions); “Elvis The Musical” (Elvis Presley in 2 Productions); “Victor/Victoria” (King Marchand); “Be My Love: The Mario Lanza Musical” (Mario Lanza); “City Of Angels” (Jimmy Powers); “The Chamaleon Concert” (The Chamaleon); “Das Winterzirkus” (Canio); “Jesus Christ Superstar” (Annas); “Kismet” (Caliph) ; “Babes in Toyland” (Alan); “Star-Crossed Lovers” (Romeo); “Angelina” (The Narrator); “Sweet Adeleine” (Ensemble); “Camelot” (Sir Sagramore); “Fiddler on the Roof” (Motel Kamzoil); “West Side Story” (Tony); “Honey in the Rock” (Rex Covington); “Hatfields and McCoys” (Spirit Hatfield); “Cabaret” (Aryan Soldier); “Grease” (Teen Angel); “The Boyfriend” (Tony); “Comic Books Tonight (Superman)”
PLAYS (1984-1992) - LEADING ROLES IN THE FOLLOWING PRODUCTIONS:
“Lend Me A Tenor” (Il Stupendo); “The Three Sisters” (Fedotik); “David and Lisa” (David); “The Rainmaker” (Bill Starbuck); “As You Like It” (Amiens); “Butterflies are Free” (Don Baker); “Sunday Costs 5 Pesos” (Alex Duran)
MARK JANICELLO | RESUMÉ PAGE 3 CORPORATE EVENTS | CONCERT TOURS
2017-2018 ● “Künstler geen AIDS” - Theater des Westens Berlin ● “Back To The Future” Boehringer Ingelheim Corporate Event ● “Rock Legends In Concert” - Concert Tour USA/Europe ● “I Believe: Greatest Gospel Hits” - Concert Tour USA/Europe
2014-2015 ● “The Frederik Hirsch Projekt” -Corporate Event, DASA Dortmund ● The Lost Temple - MoviePark Germany 2007-2013● “Musical Man 2: The Concert” - Germany & Austria Tour ● Be My Love: A Tribute to Mario Lanza -- Germany & Austria Tour ● “Night of the Italian Tenors” - Switzerland Tour ● “Lebende Rock Legenden” - Germany & Austria Tour ● “La Notte Italiana” - Germany and Austria Tour ● “Showstoppers: Best of Broadway” - Switzerland Tour ● “Die Nacht der Musicals” - Germany and Austria Tour ● “Elvis Goes Classic” - European Tour & Turkey
ADDITIONAL SKILLS Published Author: Autobiography: “Naked In The Spotlight” (Nackt im Rampenlicht), Poetry: “Unsaid”
Critic-at-large: www.broadwayworld.com Columnist: Hoop Doop Magazine
TV Producer: “The Finellis” (Executive Produer, Author)
Theatrical Producer: Musicals (fixed and touring productions), Concert Tours, and Corporate Events for LaRaven Productions B.V. (1997- 2017)
Musical Author: (1998) “The Chamäleon Concert,” (1999) “Be My Love: The Mario Lanza Musical,” (2001)“Charlie: A New Musical,” (2002) “Elvis: The Musical,” (2005) “The Great Caruso,” (2009) “Cloud 9: A Children's Musical”
Additional Skills: Professional Graphic Artist, Expert Photo Retoucher and Website Designer
Accomplished Painter: https://www.flickr.com/photos/147158521@N04/albums
Sports: Weightlifting, Jogging, Swimming, Biking and Tennis
EDUCATION University of North Carolina Greensboro - Bachelor of Arts 1984
MUSIC | DANCE Classically-trained operatic tenor Ballet (4 years), Jazz, Tap, and Modern Dance (each 1 year), Ballroom (1 Year)
MARK JANICELLO | RESUMÉ PAGE 4 DISCOGRAPHY
"Unchained“ (1995) "Musical Man” (2005) Broadway's Greatest Hits "Crossing Brooklyn Ferry“ (1996) (UK ONLY) "Butterfly" – (2005) “Suspicious Minds” (1996) Promo CD "Traummelodien" (2005) Opera and Operette Arias “Will You Still Be There" (1997) “Traummelodien 2” (2006) More Opera and Operetta Arias "Can't Help Falling In Love" (1997) CD-Single “Elvis Goes Classic – LIVE” Live Album from Munich, Germany "Du bist das Herz der Welt" (1998) duet Hanne Haller “Georgia On My Mind" (2005) A Tribute to Ray Charles "Be My Love: Das Mario Lanza Musical" (1999) “Die Nacht der Musicals" (2007) Cast Album (4 Songs) “Classics” (1999) Puccini and Verdi Tenor Arias "La Notte Italiana" (2008) Italian folk, pop and light classics "Deep In Your Soul" (2000) CD Single "Listen" (EP) (2008) “Time Stands Still” (2000) CD Single “Great Big Mama” (2009) DoubleDutch Remix CD Single "Charlie: A New Musical" (2001) Musical CD “Ultimate Collection The Love Songs” (2009) "Right Now" (2001) CD Single “Elvis &Me” (2009) Double CD Set "Amazing Grace" (2001) Gospel Classics "Push it Now' (2011) CDSingle "Endless Love" (2001) LIVE in Concert “Loving The Silent Tears” (2012) Original Cast Album “Elvis: die Show, sein Leben” (2002) Musical CD “Musical Man 2” (2013) Broadway's Greatest Hits Part 2 “Rubbernecking” - CD Single “I Am A Man” (2014) CD Single “Great Big Mama” (2002) CD Single “Here I Am Again (2015) CD Single “I Can't Make You Love me” (2003) (EP) “Rock Legends” (2017) Hits from Elvis, Queen & Prince “The Christmas Songs” (2003) (EP) “I Believe (2017) Gospel Classics "Charlie: A New Musical" – (2004) English Version
MARK JANICELLO | RESUMÉ PAGE 5 Joris Hermans Director/Author/Producer
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1136447/
Email: [email protected] Demoreel: https://vimeo.com/jorishermans
Director - TV Series and Telenovelas
The Finellis Verliebt in Berlin Höllische Nachbarn UnterUns Wie war ich, Doris? Bianca- Wege zum Glück Hand aus Herz
Director - Variety and Talk Shows
Achtung TV Kaiser Happy Friday Show Hartwich OLM! Die Show Hanna Barbara Party Freitagnachtnews Die Superhändler NDR-Talkshow Director - Sketch Comedy
Comedy nach Maß TWO Funny Mensch Markus Die Dreisten Drei Wunderbar Die Promi-Comedy Schräge Kerle Chartbreak Hotel
Author/Director
Robert Settler ZiniTiätsch Coco & Sesamstrasse Wer Hotel 13 Co Wir bleiben in bin ich wirklich Notruf Touch
Producer/Director - Scripted Reality Shows
Mein dunkles Die Strassencops Mystery Patchwork Family Geheimis Anwälte in Einsatz
Writer Lebensretter Willkommen Bei Mario Mein Kind,Dein Kind Die Abzocker Barth Tatort Küche Celebrities on a Budget Newtopia Ulf Weidmann Composer, Producer and Musical Arranger for "The Finellis"
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm8011403/
EMail: [email protected] Website: www.mc-company.com
Discography: https://www.discogs.com/ de/artist/1726588-Ulf-Weidmann
• The University of Augsburg – Classical Music Division • Berklee College of Music, Boston / USA, Diploma: Magna Cum Laude • Over 2 million records sold • As a studio musician, Ulf Weidmann is represented on more than 5 million records • 2005 - 2 Gold Awards as Music Producer • 2 Grimme Preis Nominations for TV Scores • 1 award for TV Documentary Score
During his studies, Ulf Weidmann worked closely with the film scoring department of Berklee and the New England Conservatory.
He has composed Official Songs for Champion Soccer Clubs as well as for major European Soccer Events, such as: "2011" the theme song for the Women's Football World Cup; the composition and production of the new stadium anthem "Dortmund, our city" for German national football champion team, Borussia Dortmund; and a song for World Champion Soccer Coach Jürgen Klopp – “Kloppo, du Popstar."
He has performed more than a thousand live concerts worldwide as a pianist and musical director and has worked in various studio and live situations. A short list of musicians with whom Ulf has worked include – Nathan East (Whitney Houston), Michael Thompson (Christina Aguliera, David Foster), Pino Palladino (Phil Collins, Adele), Abraham Laboriel (Al Jarreau), Dan Higgins (Jerry Hey Horn Section), Michael Landau (Eros Rammazotti), Chris Ralles (Kenny Loggins), Martin Stoeck (Pur), Paul Leim (Lionel Ritchie, Peter Cetera), Curt Cress (Tina Turner), Nils Tuxen (Bellamy Brothers), Peter Weihe (Professor MuHo Hamburg), Markus Wienstroer (Western Hagen), Ken Taylor (Maffay), Joe Chemay (Pink Floyd, Lionel Ritchie), Jerry Hey (Michael Jackson), Louis Jardim (Eric Clapton), Thorsten DeWinkel (Pat Metheny), Rüdiger Baldauf (Stefan Raab) and many others. He studied privately with jazz legend Jerry Bergonzi as well as with Paul Schmeling, Chairman of the Piano Department at Berklee.
In 2005, Ulf Weidmann founded MediaConcepts GmbH as managing partner and since then has also been working successfully as a management consultant and event general entrepreneur.
Compositions for Season One of "The Finellis" • Complete original orchestrations for Episodes 1-13 • "Here's Tony" (Theme Song from "The Finellis") • "Here I Am Again" (Episode 1) • "Zombie Heart" (Episode 2) • "Everybody Loves You" (Episode 5) • "Shop's Closed" (Episode 5) • "Can't Seem To Write A Love Song" (Episode 6) • "Bitter" (Episode 9) • "The Journey" (Episode 10) • "Little Man" (Episode 11) • "Love Will Never Die" (Episode 12) • "I Am A Man" (Episode 13) Why "The Finellis" and why right now?
Producer's Note by Mark Janicello Author and Executive Producer
Heading one of the largest economies and military powers in the world is Donald J. Trump, a reality- TV star, and real estate magnate who is neither an experienced politician nor any sort of diplomat. Trump's lack of personal decency, decorum and diplomacy has caused fear, anxiety, unrest, and turmoil both economically, politically and in the realms of environmental and social causes in the United States and worldwide. Both personal, and political discourse has sunk to all-time lows during the Trump Era. Add to that the insecurity in the EU caused by the “Brexit” crisis, plus the looming threat of global warming, and you find audiences searching for certainty, for comfort, and for hope.
Historically, comedy has thrived during periods of great uncertainty and war. The best examples of this phenomenon were the escapist entertainments produced during the Great Depression and the World Wars, just to name a few. “The Finellis” aims to be a half-hour of intelligent, escapist, inspiration for its audience.
Hope and Inspiration "The Finellis," tells the story of Tony Finelli, a once-famous singer who never quit, and who remained the “eternal optimist” regardless of whatever life has thrown at him. Tony is a middle-aged man who, like Rocky Balboa, lost everything but still stands up, again and again, to fight for his dreams.
Market Positioning and Unique Selling Points
LIVE Music and Animation “The Finellis" is an innovative SitCom format, produced in English in Berlin for the international television market. Written by an American writer, Mark Janicello, the scripts for “The Finellis” use the successful template of legendary SitCom writer/producer Norman Lear ("All in the Family," "Maude," "The Jeffersons," etc.) as a starting point to then further develop the Family SitCom Format. “The Finellis” seamlessly integrates both musical and animated sequences into its storytelling. In a first for a TV SitCom, almost all the musical sequences are all performed LIVE. Another innovation are the animated “Flying Finelli” cartoons produced for Marjan Content by the animation team at 908 Video. Both of these elements enhance the storytelling ability, increase the entertainment value for the viewer and allow visual and sensory “flights of fancy” that would otherwise not be available in a traditional SitCom format.
Like the great comedies of Norman Lear, "The Finellis" mixes both comedic and dramatic elements while tackling such “hot topics” as racism, age discrimination, sexism, and LGBTQ rights. For example, two recurring characters in the show are Eva and Jorge Gutierrez, a 72-year-old Cuban refugee, (played by Mario Garcia) who after being married for 40 years and raising four children, files for divorce, because he has fallen in love with (and consequently marries) a much younger
Producer's Note - “Why 'The Finellis?'” 1 Why "The Finellis" and why right now? (continued)
transgender woman of color. In a coup for “casting diversity,” we are proud to announce that Eva Gutierrez is performed by the transgender actress, Kim Tatum. This one storyline contains an interracial, inter-generational, transgender love story – not the stuff of your typical “SitCom.” These unique storylines are coupled with music, dance and animation, making “The Finellis” a novelty in the international TV marketplace. The scripts use comedic situations as starting points to develop an intelligent discourse about trendy “hot topics,” while still remaining a family-friendly entertainment format. The leading actors range in age from 6 until 90, which allows “The Finellis” to appeal to the widest possible audience.
Semi-Autobiographical The SitCom was written and created by Mark Janicello and many of the stories, characters and situations have been culled from his own life. While "The Finellis" follows the very successful mold of such autobiographical US sitcoms as "30 Rock", "Roseanne" and "Curb Your Enthusiasm", it is not comparable to its predecessors. In contrast to the above, “The Finellis” was not written by an ever- changing committee of writers, or put together in a “Writer's Room,” but it is the product of one single individual. Mark Janicello is a man with a very unique, quite extraordinary life experience and a completely distinct point of view. The fact that Mark Janicello is also the executive producer, lead actor, and lyricist ensures that “The Finellis” has a consistent, singular voice in all aspects of its storytelling and artistic execution.
International appeal "The Finellis" is, geographically-speaking, a "German" TV product filmed in Berlin. However, it has been written and produced by an American with an American comic sensibility and was created to touch on universal themes relatable the widest possible, international audience.
While German film and television have had great success in the field of dramatic entertainments, comedy from Germany has never been represented in the international marketplace. “The Finellis” plans to be the first “made in Germany” comedy to be successfully exported, worldwide. American- style SitComs have been exported worldwide, including to the German television market. Filming the show in English allows us to market the original filmed materials to over 80 international television markets.
Right now, Berlin is one of the hottest tourist destinations in the world. With "The Finellis," Berlin will be used, for the first time, as a backdrop for an international SitCom. Through the clever selection of locations, we also promote Berlin as a tourist destination and give an insight into the inimitable flair of the German capital. Additionally "The Finellis" will act as an ambassador for products and services "Made in Germany.
Producer's Note - “Why 'The Finellis?'” 2 ContactContact InformationInformation
Website: www.thefinellis.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheFinellis/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheFinellis YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/2I6fsbs Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/showcase/5959878
Marjan Content Productions UG ProductionProduction CompanyCompany Berchtesgadenerstrasse 7 D-10779 Berlin www.marjancontentproductions.com
Executive Producer and Author Mark Janicello +49 151 663 627 28 [email protected]
Co-Producer Marco Bischof +49 162 769 8612 [email protected]
AnimationAnimation 908 Motion Design Köpenicker Str. 187 D-10997 Berlin https://www.908video.de/
Co-Founder & CEO Steffen Baumgart +49 30 740 781 93 [email protected]