Help with SS Uniform & Props

[ChristopherNage]

Hello evryone!
I just recently dicovered this forum and have been very impressed by the amount of useful information to be found here. I'm a student filmmaker and also a minor collector of WWII militaria. Currently I am getting ready to make a film set in WWII and I have concerns about the appearance of my German uniforms and equipment. I know the amount of detail people look for when it comes to authenticity as I often do it myself even with the little knowledge that I have. I am terrified that my film will be torn apart by critics. I have tried to make things as authentic as I possibly can and have spend over a year on pre-production, yet my budget for the entire film is around $5000.00 which I could easily spend on just one complete uniform with equipment. I have scenes with up to a dozen people on screen at a time. I have gone with the mindset that it is better to leave certain details out entirely rather than to have them appear and be incorrect. I've set the film in 1944 hoping that I could mismash alittle with the uniforms.
If you could, I would like you to take a look at some of the photos I have taken and give me your advice. Please keep in mind that the uniforms are only designed to look good on film from a distance and will not hold up to close scrutiny. I realize the amount of detail you all look for (part of which terrifies me). If I can get a few okays that some of this stuff will pass the grade or can be made to, I will be able to sleep again nights.
Any feedback or advice would be much appreciated. http://groups.msn.com/Nage/yourwebpage4.msnw

Thanks!

Christopher Nage Heilgeist

[Mike C]

Hi Christopher,

The most obvious uniform mistake is the placement of eagles. SS wore the sleeve eagles roughly centred on the left sleeve; army worn the eagle on the right breast just above the pocket. You have reversed the two.

Would there, by chance, be a German WW 2 re-enacting group close to you? They will give you great advice, might have a line on good reproduction uniforms and might well act for you (perhaps for a crate or two of cold drinks?). If you don't know, query the living history forum here. Worth a try!

Mike

[MartyC]

uniforms

Christopher,

Good luck with your project!!
Here is a reenactor site that you might consider for reference. http://www.lssah.com/Grenadier%20impression.html

These are not original uniforms, but they give you a start on what the configuration would look like. Also, you really should consider reenactors for your parts, some of the guys in these pictures don't look too good . The same web site has information on contacting the LAH unit in the US that might help you.

Marty

[Tony Barto]

Hi Christopher;

Good luck with your project! I think the uniform detailing has pretty much already been covered. I also like the choice of your weapons but if you can swing it I'd lose that bolt action you got and replace it with a Mauser K-98.

[SgtB]

Hi Christopher!

Actually, your 'rushes' don't look that bad. Plus the B&W film helps a
good deal. Some of the minor uniform details could be changed as
already mentioned here, but for such a low budget project I think
you're doing very well. The weapons help a lot too.

Back in the '70's some of my friends and I shot a 1/2 hour war movie
in 8mm called the "Eagles of War". It was a much smaller budget than
yours, but we had many real pieces of US and German uniforms and
equipment supplied by vet dads. Some scenes were absolutely realistic!
But don't worry - we didn't win any awards. Maybe you'll do better!

[ChristopherNage]

Thanks everyone for your help, I really am very greatful. I'll take all your advice for sure, special thanks for the re-enactment link. My only worry is that I can't afford to pay anyone (accept for food and drinks of course) and I hate to ask anyone to commit time without compensation. Thanks again!

- Chris