After School Specialists

Bios

Ken Ryzner, Director/Producer

Ken is a multimedia guru trapped in the world of corporate simulation. Don't know what that means? Neither does he. Ken began his career as a Production Assistant for an ill-conceived return of the game show "You Bet Your Life," where his highlights included buying chicken for a Martin Yan segment, and once being questioned by Mr. Cosby as to the availability of Tootsie Rolls on the craft services table.

After years of producing and directing corporate, instructional, and charity programs, Posse represents Ken's short film directorial debut. Inspired by the three awards the film garnered at the Philadelphia 48 Hour Film Project, including best director and best acting, Ken plans on pursuing more opportunities for challenging short film projects.

Phil Charron

At the age of 2, Phil realized his lifelong dream of being a Parisian street urchin was out of reach and emigrated to the Boston area. At the age of 3, Phil headed to Philadelphia with nothing but a loaf of bread and a new dream of selling out to the man.This goal was easily accomplished by the age of 22.

In 2005, Phil became a founding member of After School Specialists, where he tells everyone they're behind schedule and offers unsolicited advice to Writers, Directors, DPs and Craft Services. Phil calls this "Producing" and "Assistant Directing."

Russ Starke

Russ(ell) Starke is an active member of the Philadelphia music community as a session musician for local performers, as a solo artist with two albums to his credit, and as a member of quirky pop band The Hulihees. In addition, Russ is probably best known for his work as the audio engineer (and on-air talent) for Used Wigs Radio at www.usedwigs.com.

In April 2005, Russ received the Best Sound Design award for his music and sound effects work on the short film Posse created by the After School Specialists for the 48 Hour Film Project in Philadelphia. For more information, visit www.russellstarke.com.

Jason Giaccone and S. Marcus Hswe, Writers

Jason and Marcus collaborated on their first short film project under the mistaken belief that they would become Hollywood big shots by winning one screenwriting competition. Though their egos were shrunken down to the size of peas when they failed to even place in the competition, their dreams remain gargantuan and unattainable.

Winner of the Dante Medal from the Poughkeepsie Sons of Italy, Jason believes that provolone is the workhorse of cheeses. Two-time quarterfinalist in the prestigious Nicholl Fellowship in Screenwriting Competition, Marcus really just wants to direct. The two writers have nothing in common except being fathers, working at the same defunct company around the turn of this century, and a deep respect for Sarah Michelle-Gellar. Very deep.

Bios

Ken Ryzner, Director/Producer

Phil Charron

Russ Starke

Jason Giaccone and S. Marcus Hswe, Writers

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