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4. Talk about the Hollywood big break you passed on.
Answer: When I got out of the service in '94 I didn't know what to do. I hadn't gone to college yet so I didn't know computers. I always loved movies though and dreamt of doing special effects in film. So, I sat down with a pile of VHS tapes and ffwd to the end credits to read the special effects companies. I compiled a list of companies and the cities they were in then I called information and got their phone numbers. I called several companies and fished around for information. A guy by the name of John Rosengrant (if I remember correctly) from Stan Winston Studios called me back at home. I was floored cause I KNEW who this guy was! FYI: Stan Winston Studios is the effects company that designed and built the ALIEN, PREDATOR, TERMINATOR, J.P. T-REX, BATMAN, etc... you get the picture. So he asked me to drive up to Van Nuys for an interview (and bring my portfolio). Of course I did! Well I got there I had to sign a non-disclosure form cause they were working on shit that hadn't come out yet and then he gave me a tour of the studio which rocked! After that we went back to his office and he reviewed my portfolio. He said he was impressed and offered me an apprenticeship on the spot. That was a high point of my life! When I came out (I was married at the time) I told my wife what happened and she said,"oh that's too bad." I fired back, "What the fuck are you talking about this is a once in a lifetime opportunity?!?!?" She replied,"well it's an apprenticeship - that doesnt pay and you need to go out and make money!" So I called him back and sadly declined his offer. I frequently wonder where I'd be today if I'd have gone for it anyway despite her. I have regretted that moment ever since then. Hindesight really IS 20/20...
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