AGGREGATED ACTING FORUMS

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do we really need more white actors?

do we really need more white actors?

Posted on Mar 26th

I am a white female in my 20s. Maybe my perspective doesn’t need to be elevated. Part of me wants to stop doing the whole thing because there are women I know that have NEVER SEEN someone like them in a leading role.

Best Actors in History: the ones who went to Acting School versus the ones who didn’t. What list do you prefer?

Best Actors in History: the ones who went to Acting School versus the ones who didn’t. What list do you prefer?

Posted on Mar 26th

Keep in mind that the ones who didn’t go to Acting School still took classes or had private coaching, it’s rare to find an actor who hasn’t received any kind of training. And everyone’s needs and wants are different when it comes to acting education, so if you feel pressured to major in acting in college or spend many years in a program just know that you don’t have to do that. Lastly, there is probably more actors who deserve to be in either list but I don’t want to make them very long. **Went to Acting School** * Denzel Washington - American Conservatory Theater * Tom Hanks - Chabot College and California State University * Robert De Niro - HB Studio, Lee Strasberg’s Actors Studio, and Stella Adler Conservatory * Al Pacino - HB Studio and Lee Strasberg’s Actors Studio * Daniel Day Lewis - Bristol Old Vic Theatre School * Marlon Brando - American Theatre Wing Professional School * Cate Blanchett - National Institute of Dramatic Art * Gene Hackman - Pasadena Playhouse * Dustin Hoffman - Pasadena Playhouse * Viola Davis - Rhode Island College and Juilliard School * Alec Guinness - Fay Compton Studio of Dramatic Art and the London Theatre Studio * Michael Caine - Westminster Repertory Company * Greta Garbo - Royal Dramatic Training Academy * Meryl Streep - Vassar College and Yale School of Drama * Philip Hoffman - NYU * Anthony Hopkins - Royal Academy of Dramatic Art * Frances McDormand - Bethany College and Yale School of Drama * Ingrid Bergman - Royal Dramatic Theatre School * Morgan Freeman - Pasadena Playhouse * Paul Newman - Kenyon College, Yale School of Drama, and the Actors Studio * Charles Laughton - Royal Academy of Dramatic Art * Laurence Oliver - Birmingham Repertory Company * Mahershala Ali - NYU’s Graduate Acting Program * Christoph Waltz - Max Reinhardt Seminar * Kevin Spacey - Juilliard School * Helen Hayes - Academy of the Sacred Heart Convent * Jack Lemmon - HB Studio * Jane Fonda - Actors Studio * Jessica Lange - HB Studio * Maggie Smith - Oxford Playhouse * Sally Field - Actors Studio **Did not go to Acting School** * Bette Davis * Natalie Portman * Leonardo DiCaprio * Joaquin Phoenix * Heath Ledger * Katharine Hepburn * Tilda Swinton * Toshiro Mifune * Humphrey Bogart * Jack Nicholson * Christian Bale * James Stewart * Brad Pitt * Sean Penn * Russel Crowe * Jean Gabin * Sidney Poitier * Jodie Foster * Renee Zellweger * Anthony Quinn * Hilary Swank * Amy Adams * Julia Roberts * Tommy Lee Jones * Javier Bardem * Johnny Depp

Acting Classes: Required or Helpful?

Acting Classes: Required or Helpful?

Posted on Mar 26th

I've made a previous post here about stage names mostly out of the blue, but I'm finally taking real steps to get the ball rolling. As stated before, I am a teen actor looking to get in the business but I'm not sure what steps to make first. I'm not at all trained when it comes to acting, save for lead roles within school productions. The idea of getting acting classes sounds amazing, but much of the classes in my area are pretty expensive. Is there a way to make do without them? Are there good alternatives you know of?

I'm starting to finally get jobs thanks to some of y'all!

I'm starting to finally get jobs thanks to some of y'all!

Posted on Mar 25th

So a while back, I made a post asking about an agency I thought was a scam (which it totally was btw), and some of y'all gave me advice on how best to find small jobs on my own. Thanks to y'alls advice, I got cast in a commercial for "a popular fruit beverage company's new alcoholic seltzer" (I still don't know if I'm technically allowed to say it since it's not on market), and I just got cast to have a speaking role in a statewide mental health campaign. I just wanted to generally thank all who helped by giving advice, and this sub in general for being fantastic for new actors wanting to start a career!

Actra Apprentice membership advise

Actra Apprentice membership advise

Posted on Mar 25th

Hey awesome acting people! I recently was asked to perform in a theatre organizations concert that was live-streamed through Actra. I got my first Actra credit through this concert, and last week received a letter informing me that I could join actra as an apprentice. I have 5 weeks to decide if I want to join and wondering what ya’ll think my best course of action would be. A bit about myself, I’m an actor in Canada, 28F, non-union, in the process of finding representation, and I’ve only done theatre work at this point but want to make the jump to film work. I know I will lose my ability to work on non-union jobs, and given that I have no film experience on my resume, I’m wondering what I should do. Would having an apprentice membership harm me more than benefit me when I don’t have any film experience (besides bg work)? Would I be better off waiting until I have more film experience? Thanks in advance for your insight and guidance!

Audiobook Sample - Looking for a little guidance

Audiobook Sample - Looking for a little guidance

Posted on Mar 25th

Hey everyone. Over the past few weeks, I have been exploring the voice over world. During COVID, I was able to accumulate audio equipment due to working from home and became interested after stumbling upon a YouTube video where an audiobook narrator described her experience getting into the industry. There is still plenty for me to adjust, but I wanted to receive some feedback and guidance, if possible. I'm not sure if one type of VO work is "better" than the others. For instance, I have heard audiobook narration is quite arduous and many VO actors stay away from it. I like reading, so that is where I went naturally. I'm also not sure what my voice fits better, if that makes sense. I do have some acting experience, but this was years ago at this point so anything that remains would be degraded, at best. I have also done some very minor VO work as of last year, recording official training material for the company I work for. [Here is a link](https://soundcloud.com/wdrogers93/dracula-reading-sample) to a 1 minute audio sample of me reading Dracula. What are your thoughts, and is there a specific type of VO work that you think I would be better at than another? Thanks in advance.

Canadian actors!

Canadian actors!

Posted on Mar 25th

Hi everyone If you’re a Canadian actor (union or non) can you please go sign the petition on ACTRA’s website to ask the government to fire Cossette. We’re in a lockout for our commercial work and we need all the help we can get! Share with your friends and family too! Non union actors we want you to get the best wages too! If they break our union this isn’t good for anyone. Link: https://www.actra.ca/nca/firecossette/?utm_campaign=later-linkinbio-actranational&utm_content=later-33937845&utm_medium=social&utm_source=linkin.bio

Completed 100 AUDITIONS

Completed 100 AUDITIONS

Posted on Mar 25th

I'm an actor based in Mumbai, India and I've been auditioning since the last 3-4 years. I'm a college student and I started auditioning from the very start of college and I'm going to graduate this May. This feels like such an interesting journey and I am so excited for what lies ahead! My booking stats: Total Auditions = 100 (For film, TV, web, commercials) Shortlisted / Second round = Approximately 20-25 Booked = 8 (Out of which 6 were professional and 2 were local or projects made by acquaintances) Out of the 6: 5 commercials (of which 1 didn't release) and 1 cameo speaking role in a web show.

What does Daniel Kaluuya mean by showing the audience you’re lying while also telling the truth?

What does Daniel Kaluuya mean by showing the audience you’re lying while also telling the truth?

Posted on Mar 25th

This morning I was really enjoying this “In The Envelope” podcast episode https://spotify.link/z7x5U2bPsyb interviewing Daniel Kaluuya (Get Out, Nope, Judas & The Black Messiah) which really is a treat for actors. The host asked a lot of really great questions, but what really struck out to me was around 12:50-13:00, where Daniel says that what an actor does while in character, is signal to the audience that they’re “lying,” in order to keep them engaged but to do that while coming from a place of truth. Can anyone elaborate on that?

Looking for Bluey Voice Actors

Looking for Bluey Voice Actors

Posted on Mar 25th

[https://www.castingcall.club/projects/bluey-animation-paid-opportunity](https://www.castingcall.club/projects/bluey-animation-paid-opportunity) Looking for 1-4 singers for an animation about the show Bluey. Payment ranges from 30$-75$ USD due to some roles having more lines than others. Follow the link if interested. \*\*\*EDIT\*\*\* The audio will be used in a parody of "The Duck Song" Here's a link to it: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MtN1YnoL46Q](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MtN1YnoL46Q) Here are some sample lines and videos to get an idea for the voices: Bandit voice sample: [**https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O87w8xy-g-c**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O87w8xy-g-c) (The following lines are sung in the tune of the duck song) \-"No we just sell coconuts, but they're tasty and cheap and you don't need cups!" \-"No, like I said before, we just sell coconuts at this store, why not give it a shot?" \-"Ok look, whats your deal? I mean, coconut's are all that we sell here! They have little umbrellas" Chilli voice sample: [**https://youtu.be/jFp8Dvm3BPA?t=84**](https://youtu.be/jFp8Dvm3BPA?t=84) (The following lines are sung in the tune of the duck song) \-"The ducks walked up to a coconut stand And they said to the dad runnin' the stand." \-"Then they waddled away (waddle waddle)" \-"'Till the very next day (bom, bom, bom, bom, bom babom) ​ Bluey voice sample: [**https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HlOIzz-GIxk**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HlOIzz-GIxk) \-(In the tune of the duck song): "Hey! Got any grapes?" \-(Spoken normal): "Can you read this story? We made it for you at nana's!" ​ Bingo voice sample: [**https://youtu.be/aqsWtxYzQ0o?t=55**](https://youtu.be/aqsWtxYzQ0o?t=55) \-(Spoken Normal): "Yeah can you and dad read it?" \-(In the tune of the duck song): "Hey! Got any grapes?" https://preview.redd.it/15mzracfdvpa1.png?width=712&format=png&auto=webp&v=enabled&s=64f00cc42ac5f48481c875d2ec7facdcf6dbdb78

Games/Activities for a trio of would-be voice actors?

Games/Activities for a trio of would-be voice actors?

Posted on Mar 25th

I have a couple of buddies that are pretty quick with a joke and are halfway decent at coming up with voices on the fly. One of them has mentioned a few times they would love to "break into voice acting" What would you recommend a trio of goofballs do to strengthen our voice acting brain meat?

Any U.K. Actors here? What’s your story so far?

Any U.K. Actors here? What’s your story so far?

Posted on Mar 25th

No disrespect to our US family, this subreddit is predominantly from experience a US audience. But as r/actinguk doesn’t get much traction I thought there could be more here :-) Just wondering if we have any U.K. Actors here and what’s been your path away so far? Education, training or winging it and learning on the job and booking some jobs?

YouTuber transitioning to the acting scene in LA

YouTuber transitioning to the acting scene in LA

Posted on Mar 25th

Hello folks. I am making this thread as a non-actor and mean it with the most respect. I've always wanted to be an actor/writer. I love comedy in particular- Adam Sandler, Judd Appatow, Seth Rogen, truly heroes of mine. I come from a lower-middle class background (not much money, not a nepo baby) and didn't go to acting school. But I got (lucky I guess) and managed to blow up on social media. I grew 500,000+ subscribers on YouTube, 50,000 on instagram, etc. Verified everywhere (blue checkmark). And I did all of this doing comedy content. Now, with that being said, I do NOT think I am a great actor or unbelievable talent. It comes natural to me but I am by no means good. My strength is comedy, funny movies ideas and entertaining people online. I am great at socializing as well so networking would be pretty fun. I am aware that Hollywood don't care much about social media presence. They don't pay attention to follower counts, numbers of subscribers or whatever. But I (naively) thought that if I grew big on social media I could maybe, network with the right people, get connected to someone behind the scenes. I just decided to build a following online, thinking it could help me crack in. I look at it like more of a "backdoor" approach. I also believe writing may be easier to break into than acting- so I have a bunch of films/shows I have written that I believe would be easier to pass on to someone than say, getting an audition. And I have put together short film concepts that have achieved millions of views online which, could maybe show the ideas have potential? My plan is to spend 6 months in LA attending acting classes and meeting people organically. I know it will take longer to get good at acting obviously but, I've saved up enough money I could live in LA for probably 2-3 years without working. I have many "successful" friends but they are all YouTubers, influencers, etc. None of them are in the 'industry". So I am truly an outsider. But at the same time I have been told that is "refreshing" because I'm the odd man out. I apologize if this is the wrong place to be asking this. Do producers/agents or anyone in the industry give chances, meetings or opportunities to the new generation of youtubers/instagram people? I have a bunch of screenplays to pitch (movies, tv shows etc) and presume it would be easier to get in that way. Probably a lot more demand for good ideas than another funny guy in his 20s auditioning for funny guy roles. What do you all think?

Acting reel advice?

Acting reel advice?

Posted on Mar 25th

Im putting together my first acting reel so I can start submitting through backstage and actors access. I don’t really have an previous work to show. Any recommendations?

Actors who went to Acting School vs Actors who did not. Which list do you prefer?

Actors who went to Acting School vs Actors who did not. Which list do you prefer?

Posted on Mar 25th

This is just for fun! Also, keep in mind that the actors went to college for acting graduated or at least spent more than a year in the school. And this doesn’t mean that the actors who didn’t go to school haven’t gotten any kind of training, arguably all actors have taken some sort of class or training. **Actors who went to School** • Adam Driver - Juilliard School • Jessica Chanstain Juilliard School • Adam Sandler - NYU • Miles Teller - NYU • Robin Williams - Juilliard School • Daniel Day Lewis - Bristol Old Vic Theatre School • Robert de Niro - HB Studio, Lee Strasberg’s Actors Studio, and Stella Adler Conservatory • Al Pacino - HB Studio and Lee Strasberg’s Actors Studio • Marlon Brando - American Theatre Wing Professional School • Ana de Armas - National Theatre of Cuba • Denzel Washington - Fordham University and American Conservatory Theater • Oscar Isaac - NYU • Pedro Pascal - NYU • Bradley Cooper - The New School • Andrew Garfield - Royal Central School of Speech and Drama • Julianne Moore - Boston University • Viola Davis - Rhode Island College and Juilliard School • Cate Blanchett - National Institute of Dramatic Art **Actors who did not** • Leonardo DiCaprio • Austin Butler • Jennifer Lawrence • Margot Robbie • Emma Stone • Brad Pitt • Johnny Depp • Tom Cruise • Heath Ledger • Joaquin Phoenix • Javier Bardem • Ryan Gosling • Diego Calva • Tom Hardy • Jim Carrey • Christian Bale • Robert Pattinson

I just made my new character reel! any feedback or criticism would be highly appreciated.

I just made my new character reel! any feedback or criticism would be highly appreciated.

Posted on Mar 25th

I’m a 16 y/o voice actor with one year of experience. I made this demo from my home studio and i’m looking for some feedback! I’d love to hear any insight as to what I did right or wrong!

Your weekly /r/VoiceActing roundup for the week of March 17 - March 23

Your weekly /r/VoiceActing roundup for the week of March 17 - March 23

Posted on Mar 24th

**Friday, March 17 - Thursday, March 23** ###Interesting | score | comments | title & link | |--|--|--| | 0 | [2 comments](/r/VoiceActing/comments/11wohju/taxes_skip_to_43_minutes/) | `[interesting Link

How did they get John Dimaggio for the english dub of Drifting Home?

How did they get John Dimaggio for the english dub of Drifting Home?

Posted on Mar 24th

John Dimaggio is an A list voice actor with very high rates, how could they afford him when he probably costs at least 50k, don't dubs have low budgets normally?

Co-starring w/Eric Roberts was GREAT!

Co-starring w/Eric Roberts was GREAT!

Posted on Mar 24th

I was on-set for 10 days filming the psychological thriller ”Intent Unknown” with some amazing local Iowa actors, as well a Academy Awards & Golden Globe actors Eric Roberts and Julianna Michelle

Actors, you don't ever need to meet up with a producer/director in person to get a role.

Actors, you don't ever need to meet up with a producer/director in person to get a role.

Posted on Mar 24th

I'm not talking about in-person auditions, I'm talking if a director wants to meet up with you alone either for dinner or at their house to "get to know you." A bunch of actresses I know and I who have a resume but are not celebrities have all dealt with a creepy producer who has a medium sized show on amazon prime (isn't very good). It has some c list and d list actors in it though so I guess he uses this to try to get newer actresses to meet with him I guess thinking they might be desperate or something. The show isn't very good looks like it isn't coming out even though it was filmed years ago, etc. Just wanted to share this though as it's really creepy and predatory behavior. I asked both my agent and manager about this and they said do not meet with this guy. I also found his Instagram and he has tons of pictures of actresses he worked with sitting on his lap or putting his arms around them and it's extremely disturbing. This guy has to be at least 50.Even if I was single, I would rather not work for years than put my safety possibly at risk. I know I can get roles without having to meet up with producers alone. Be careful out there ladies! lots of creeps in the industry trying to take advantage of young women out there.

Are large project open calls for real, or just to increase awareness of projects?

Are large project open calls for real, or just to increase awareness of projects?

Posted on Mar 24th

I don’t mean to sound jaded, but I feel like every time there’s a “nation wide search” they end up casting someone already well in the industry. Is this ever real, or just a marketing ploy that gets young actors hopes up?

What are some red flags to know for a young actress trying to avoid pervy amateur directors?

What are some red flags to know for a young actress trying to avoid pervy amateur directors?

Posted on Mar 24th

As someone who enjoys doing student stuff, wants to branch out to local stuff. What are some red flags to look out for?

I'm embarrassed to ask for help paying for coaching.

I'm embarrassed to ask for help paying for coaching.

Posted on Mar 24th

So I'm a teenager who wants to be a voice actor so I'd like to get some coaching while I'm still young so I can keep working on it as I get older. However my parents aren't 100% on board with me going into a preforming art but I'm not sure how they would react to me asking for coaching. I'm not even sure what to look for in a coach so I don't know if they'd want me to know that before I ask. Can anyone offer any advice on how I could ask if I think they won't be supportive or only partially supportive?

Headshot-Age Range-Character Type Feedback

Headshot-Age Range-Character Type Feedback

Posted on Mar 23rd

Use this thread to post your headshots for feedback, get info on your age range/type, find good headshot photographers, ask any questions you may have about headshots. If you are posting a DIY headshot for feedback, and not just a snapshot in order to get feedback on your age range/type/etc, it is advised that you do at least some basic research on what actor headshots look like--composition, framing, lighting. You will find a Google Image search for "actor headshots" to be very helpful for this. Non-professional shots are fine for age/typecasting; please keep in mind that one picture is a difficult way to go about this. Video of you moving and speaking would be ideal, but understandably more difficult to post. ​ For what it's worth, the branding workshop at SAG-AFTRA recommends a five-year age range. That's inclusive, so for example 19-23, 25-29, 34-38, etc.

Podcast episode on acting

Podcast episode on acting

Posted on Mar 23rd

I've just interviewed the very talented Koko Marshall on my podcast. I'm not an actor by any means, but I think it's really worth a listen for people in the film industry. Koko had a lot of insights about the world of acting as we discussed her career and major influences. I'd wanted to get Koko on the podcast since I first watched her in the heist thriller Solid Rock Trust (2022). The performance she gave in that film was so complex and had so much range. Here's the link if you'd like to watch the podcast. Hope you enjoy! [https://youtu.be/RgzMffO82ts](https://youtu.be/RgzMffO82ts)

Have you ever been bullied by casting directors in your local area?

Have you ever been bullied by casting directors in your local area?

Posted on Mar 23rd

Case Study: Reports have shown this is common in smaller markets aside from Los Angeles and New York. Has anyone been bullied by casting directors in their local area by consistent and excessive exclusion without merit, treated poorly, false rumors, discrimination? Anyone like to share their experiences? Casting directors don’t choose the roles or who gets cast. The director and producers do. Their job is just to present the actors in the local area who fit the description the directors and producers are looking for. There is often a lot of confusion about that. But they do have power in that if they decide to bully someone, they will just not let the person audition despite the actor being right for the role and qualified with previous work experience. Artificial Intelligence could do their jobs and hopefully the industry will work towards that direction to prevent this type of treatment towards actors in the future.

Have you ever been bullied by casting directors in your local area?

Have you ever been bullied by casting directors in your local area?

Posted on Mar 23rd

Case Study: Reports have shown this is common in smaller markets aside from Los Angeles and New York. Has anyone been bullied by casting directors in their local area by consistent and excessive exclusion without merit, treated poorly, false rumors, discrimination? Anyone like to share their experiences? Casting directors don’t choose the roles or who gets cast. The director and producers do. Their job is just to present the actors in the local area who fit the description the directors and producers are looking for. There is often a lot of confusion about that. But they do have power in that if they decide to bully someone, they will just not let the person audition despite the actor being right for the role and qualified with previous work experience. Artificial Intelligence could do their jobs and hopefully the industry will work towards that direction to prevent this type of treatment towards actors in the future.

Was anyone bullied by casting directors and would like to share?

Was anyone bullied by casting directors and would like to share?

Posted on Mar 23rd

I know this is a sensitive subject but also a very important one. Has anyone been bullied by casting directors in their local area by consistent and excessive exclusion without merit, treated poorly, false rumors, discrimination? Anyone like to share their experiences? There is a common misconception. Casting directors don’t choose the roles or who gets cast. The director and producers do. Their job is just to present the actors in the local area who fit the description the directors and producers are looking for. There is often a lot of confusion about that. But they do have power in that if they decide to bully someone, they will just not let the person audition despite the actor being right for the role and qualified with previous work experience. Artificial Intelligence could do their jobs and hopefully the industry will work towards that direction to prevent this type of treatment towards actors in the future. My job is to be an advocate for actors and see that they are treated fairly.

Best Podcasts/Materials to learn about acting / business of acting

Best Podcasts/Materials to learn about acting / business of acting

Posted on Mar 23rd

Have quite a few books but are there any good podcasts out there to listen to ? Or any specific episodes of podcasts where an actor speaks about their career?

Will changing my hair color prevent me from getting roles?

Will changing my hair color prevent me from getting roles?

Posted on Mar 23rd

Okay so I’m pretty new to acting. I’ve been taking classes for about six months. I’ve recently taken headshots and started applying for roles on actors access. No callbacks yet but it’s only been like two weeks so I’m not discouraged. However I recently have been seriously thinking about giving myself a makeover. I’m a light brown skinned African American male with pretty long dark hair. I’ve been thinking about cutting my hair short and dying it a brownish red color. I know it will look good because I’ve had that color before and it doesn’t look terribly unnatural because it’s a natural hair color anyways but I’m scared that it would maybe not be natural enough and therefore prevent me from being cast in different roles. I recently did background work on a period piece and they almost sent me home because of my haircut (it’s faded on the sides) so I know if I had a different hair color I may not have even been selected at all. So I guess I was just wanting some advice from other actors. Oh btw, I am aware that I would have to retake my headshots and I’m prepared to do that.

What’s on your actors bucket list?

What’s on your actors bucket list?

Posted on Mar 23rd

Mine is to be a supporting cast on a fantasy film sorta like Pirates of the Caribbean or Avatar The way of the water

Do actors/actresses ever feel used for money?

Do actors/actresses ever feel used for money?

Posted on Mar 23rd

It just popped in my mind and im wondering what the thought processes of actors are in regard to this? Or do they just not think that way? Big names for example and plastered all over covers and sfuff...how does the actor themselves feel about being "used" for money?

I have the same name as an actor on IMDb and two of his credits have mistakenly gone to me, what should I do?

I have the same name as an actor on IMDb and two of his credits have mistakenly gone to me, what should I do?

Posted on Mar 23rd

Obviously I don’t wish to take credit for someone else’s work but I don’t know how to amend it.

How to start

How to start

Posted on Mar 23rd

Hi I’m a high school student trying to go into the military but I want to finish a dream before I’ve always wanted to be a voice actor listen I’m not asking for how to get in an anime or cartoon I just want to start small because really all I have is a microphone. So is there any website I should look at I’ve tried Upwork but they mainly want experienced ones. Any help would be very much appreciated!!

Need your advice

Need your advice

Posted on Mar 22nd

I had an agent for 2 years, but things weren't going well, despite having some interesting auditions, I can literally count on one hand how many I had during the 2 years I was with them – but maybe it's also fair to consider the lockdown time. Still, very little visibility. He is a nice person but wasn't working for me as an agent. Six months ago, I left that agency and signed with a new agent who, despite the initial conversation being good and interesting, I see that I'm not getting the visibility I expected – and I'm not saying this with arrogance, but as a disappointment really. With her, I had an audition in the first week for a small project and then never had any more auditions for audiovisual projects, which is my focus and we talked about it. I had a few auditions for commercials, and last week she sent me a project which is a photoshoot for these girls that are graduating. I don't think I'm "too good for this" by no means, is just that my agent sending me a student project shocked me a bit because I expected her to be representing my profile for other projects. Like, this is why you get an agent, right? Now, a new agency that seems interesting has shown interest in my material and sent me an email to schedule a meeting because they are interested in representing me. This agency is small but better known, and I'm just starting out, so of course, I'll be represented at the beginning by a smaller agency. My acting teacher is also represented by them, so I asked him about his experience. An actress I know from a short film I participated in is also represented by them, so I asked her as well. The agency itself is better known in the market, as far as I can tell, compared to the one I am with currently. At least, that's my impression – I'm new to the market though. But I wonder if it would reflect badly on me if I change agencies now after 6 months with my new agent. I don't have enough experience to know if this is a very short time to end this or not. When I asked her about auditions and opportunities, she just said "it's too early, we need to wait," which frustrated me a bit because I'm tired of these vague responses. What would you do in my place? Should I consider the fact that 6 months is too soon to change agents, or should I give it a try?

Is Casting Networks worth is for Background Acting?

Is Casting Networks worth is for Background Acting?

Posted on Mar 22nd

Hi all! I am new to background acting. Started with central casting about a month ago and I have been working 1-2 gigs per week through them. Seems like the other background actors are getting a lot of work from casting networks. I have been applying to jobs there for about a month and haven't received a single call. Is this normal or could something be wrong with my profile?

How realistic was Leonardo DiCaprio’s meltdown scene in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood?

How realistic was Leonardo DiCaprio’s meltdown scene in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood?

Posted on Mar 22nd

For more context here’s a video of the scene: https://youtu.be/s3maJDDoX1Y So I’m someone that has always been very interested in the art of acting. I’ve studied a bit of Stanislavsky, took Meisner classes, Practical Aesthetics, etc you get the point. I wouldn’t consider myself an actor more actor curious. The scene in question Leo’s character is livid that he screwed up a couple of lines and is berating himself for it. He even says he made a fool of himself. Is that how it goes typically? Actors that mess up lines here and there are looked down upon so harshly by cast and crew? Or is his character just being overly self critical? I guess my question is, is making a mistake that big of a deal? Even during the scene before when he calls for a line twice he almost loses it asking to redo the take with the director refusing. Anyway, thought both scenes were great but wondered if this was the true mindset of an actor and if this scene resonated with actors on an almost inside joke level.

UK Spotlight/Rep Question

UK Spotlight/Rep Question

Posted on Mar 22nd

Just signed up for Spotlight, as I’ll be spending some time in the UK over the next few years. I’m a Canadian actor (union) and am eligible to work in the UK; will be going back and forth for family reasons, but still primarily based in Canada. Currently listed as “self-represented,” since my Cdn agent doesn’t use Spotlight. So far, the breakdowns I’m seeing are pretty sparse… Realistically, do I need to also find a UK-based rep in order to be able to submit for tv/film?

Rhinoplasty as an Actor

Rhinoplasty as an Actor

Posted on Mar 22nd

So this is maybe a bit of a weird question. I just started acting a few months ago and have LOVED it. I have gotten a few roles and it has helped me a ton with my confidence in addition to being extremely enjoyable. I’m an attractive guy, but I’ve always had extremely low self esteem, especially when it comes to my nose. It has a bit of a hook to it, especially when I smile. It has a huge effect on my quality of life, I avoid smiling in public, on camera, etc. I recently discovered I have a majorly deviated septum, and that I’d be able to get a rhinoplasty for fairly cheap because of this, so now seems like the time to do it if I’m ever going to. My concern when it comes to acting is that doing this would make me “just another attractive guy”. I want to keep the distinct look I have, but also want to have the confidence to go on camera and be outgoing. What’s the general consensus on this? Will I be limiting myself in terms of potential roles if I do this? Trying to balance potential impact on opportunities with my mental health and quality of life is proving to be a struggle.

A student actor's question about daydreaming (and its use for acting)

A student actor's question about daydreaming (and its use for acting)

Posted on Mar 22nd

I've heard daydreaming is a great tool that actors can have, and an easy one to access, as we are all born with the capacity to daydream. But... I’m afraid that my daydreams are only about my success, happiness, and prosperity, and not about other things that I can find meaning in that could help me locate my triggers and buttons and what makes me who I am as a person. I haven’t spent a whole lot of time trying to analyze what most of my daydreams mean, but what I have gathered is that most of them in some way revolve around my success, happiness, prosperity, etc. I’m worried that by actively trying to daydream about other things that don’t naturally pop into my head, my problem is not solved, and they will not be natural daydreams, therefore they will not have real meaning to me and therefore, will not have something I can use for my acting. Am I worrying about nothing and overthinking something that is trivial? Should I actively try to daydream about things I normally wouldn’t, or should I abstain from this and just wait for more varied daydreams to come to me? Thanks a lot!

Stranger things season five auditions?

Stranger things season five auditions?

Posted on Mar 22nd

I absolutely love Stranger Things! It is my favorite show, I love the entire cast, and it’s just so good! I love it so much that I want to be a part of it. I am an actress and have been searching the internet for auditions for season five. So far I haven’t really found it, but I am really just not a good internet detective. I have been looking since the end of summer 2022. So I am posting this today for all the lovely internet detectives and whoever else this might concern. If you could be so kind as to try your best to find me auditions for season five. Obviously I would love to audition for a larger role, but I really just want to see the auditions. I really hope it’s not to late. Thank you and have a great day!

Can an adult be a successful actor if they’ve never been in love?

Can an adult be a successful actor if they’ve never been in love?

Posted on Mar 22nd

The internet is full of “becoming a successful actor” and “if you’ve never been in love,” but only as separate issues. I found a single post a while ago about asexuals and acting, but that’s not exactly what I’m talking about and it was years old.

SAG-AFTRA and social media

SAG-AFTRA and social media

Posted on Mar 22nd

Question for anyone who knows - I’ve googled like crazy and cant find a clear answer. This is about SAG rules as it relates to appearing in social media videos. I’m a SAG actor (recently joined back in February as a must-join). For my day job, I own a videography business with my partner. We are a small biz and get most of our leads on Instagram. Am I allowed to appear in video social media posts (Instagram reels) to promote my business? Do I have to make my company a SAG signatory for something like Instagram reels or YouTube? And to that end - am I allowed to appear in social media videos on my personal/acting-focused Instagram account?

First time going for an acting gig! I got a few questions :)

First time going for an acting gig! I got a few questions :)

Posted on Mar 22nd

I am not an actor nor would I have ever thought I would have a chance to do acting at all so I’m a little confused by the process. I am a full time highliner and I was contacted by Subaru to highline in their National commercial. I sent in a self tape about a week ago and they start shooting mid April. how long does it take to hear back about a really specialized role like highlining? Do you think it would take a while for them to choose someone? Also how many people do you think got contacted for such a niche role? Anyway I’m stoked for the oppertunity and hopefully you wonderful people can shed some light on my situation:) Thanks!

What questions do you have for working actors?

What questions do you have for working actors?

Posted on Mar 22nd

I host the podcast [Actors With Issues](http://youtube.com/actorswithissuespodcast), where I interview working actors from TV, film and Broadway, many from popular films and series, about the career obstacles they've faced, the lessons they've learned and advice they'd give to young actors. I want to integrate listener/viewer questions more often so I'm asking for anyone to submit their questions here and we'll possibly feature them on the show. These can be about any topic because I interview such a wide range of actors on our show: audition anxiety, imposter syndrome, mental health, diversity, etc. The one thing I ask you **NOT** to ask is regarding "how to get an agent or manager" because you'll just get their story and not really concrete advice because as we all know, there is no one way, right way or normal way to get one. Actors self-submit, others are referred, some do a workshop or a showcase, and my agent found me themselves. Thanks in advance for your questions!

Amy Lyndon technique?

Amy Lyndon technique?

Posted on Mar 22nd

Anyone have experience taking her class? I’m looking into the weekend intensive class as I’ve heard her name around town but want to hear if it’s worth it to take as a trained actor.

So slight chance at losing my voice.

So slight chance at losing my voice.

Posted on Mar 22nd

So for context I'm a voice actor, I know redundant. I also have a large non toxic multi nodule goiter. Dont look it up, basically my thyroid is enlarged and lumpy. Ive been told to think about removal. With a thyroidectomy there is a chance at damage to the RLN nerve the nerve that controls the voice box. Along with all the other horror stories like if they find something on my larynx, poof gone. My question is. If you lost your voice, be it completely or you sound muted/ its extremely painful etc. What are you doing? How do you find meaning after that? Sorry if this doesn't make sense spent all night worrying about this.

Some of my insights from the Writer's Strike that happened (2007) and the one that didn't (2001)

Some of my insights from the Writer's Strike that happened (2007) and the one that didn't (2001)

Posted on Mar 22nd

There's a lot of chatter going on right now with a possible strike by the WGA, whose contracts expire in May 2023. Many in the industry are saying it will happen, but the reality is that no one knows what will happen until it happens. That hasn't stopped widespread speculation that it's a certainty, affecting decisions that affect us actors directly. This post is not to debate the merits of a possible strike, or its demands, but just to share some of my experiences as an actor over three decades. In 2007, I was acting in shorts, independent films and some theater, and for work, I was a utility stand-in on a network comedy, so I was on set a lot when the strike approached, was called, and in effect. Though the Teamsters have long had clauses in their contracts forbidding them to strike in solidarity with striking creative unions, SAG-AFTRA will not cross picket lines when the WGA strikes, and in 2007, this was true: SAG and AFTRA had not yet merged, and were both in solidarity with the WGA. However, it was not considered scabbing to shoot and act in TV and film whose scripts had already been written, so there was several weeks of work after the strike started still to be had for actors (and the rest of the crew and production), as long as the scripts were produced exactly as they had been written. On the show I was working on, one of the series regulars had a penchant for improvising and riffing, and the script supervisor who was used to letting it go for this actor had to work extra hard to get our star to say the line EXACTLY as it was written in the script: if one word came out of their mouth different from what was written on the page, it was considered new writing, and was a violation of the strike. A couple of episodes still in draft form went on to get shot, and it showed in the quality of the writing in the final product. Though the strike concluded in the first few months of 2008, the remainder of the season had already been scuttled by the networks and there were only 12 or 13 episodes made in what would have normally been a 22 episode season. It's an interesting endeavor to look at episode lists on Netflix or IMDb of shows produced in the 2007-2008 season that had abnormally low episode counts, and by many viewers' take, some of those episodes' writing was weak in comparison to other seasons'. The strike ended with some concessions to the WGA, and it didn't fully impact major changes in the industry. In fact, some might say that this was the beginning of TV's new Golden Age, as scripted shows became more in demand around this time, and the general consensus was that the writing in those shows was getting increasingly better. In 2001, I was acting in theater at night and working during the day for executives at one of the big networks, and early that year, everyone on the network side was convinced the WGA would strike as SAG had done the year before over commercial contracts. At the time, two huge hits on network TV were *Big Brother* and *Survivor*. Because both shows used non-actors (contestants) and didn't use pre-written scripts, they were out of union jurisdiction. The network started green lighting every reality show that came across their desks, expecting a strike would last at least through the beginning of the shooting for the 2001-2002 season, and with the added bonus of reality shows costing as little as 10% of what a scripted union show might be, and audiences were eating them up, the era of reality shows had come into full strength. Also, stars who had little theater experience started getting booked in limited run theater stints so they wouldn't be idle during the strike, as well as to keep their names in the public eye. That summer in New York, Shakespeare in the Park alone had at least a dozen actors known more for their film than stage work, and they were runaway hits, thus starting the trend to pepper theater productions with big screen stars, regardless of their theater chops. The trend of casting famous screen actors (though theater novices) in plays because of their ability to drive ticket sales came into full force at this time. Also, some of these same A-listers, traditionally "above" the mundane work of shilling for products in commercials, started booking voiceovers and on-camera roles on TV ads, both for the exposure and for the money that wouldn't be coming from TV and Film sources during a strike. The strike never ended up happening, but just the specter of it altered the professional landscape forever, making it that much more challenging for actors who weren't famous trying to get ahead. Speaking of the 2000 commercial strike, which lasted about 7 months IIRC, I wasn't in the unions yet, and was suddenly getting random calls for "non-union" commercials. At the time, the only non-union commercials were low-rent ads like local attorney commercials, small market ads, and 900 numbers. So when, during the strike, a non-union actor got called in to a non-union commercial for a major brand, they'd end up in front of a casting office with a picket line from SAG members at the entrance. Commercial productions started looking overseas to shoot, and after 7 months and little gains for the actors, the strike was over. Commercial producers had figured out ways to bypass their union agreements for major brands, like shooting in other countries, or ad agencies with agreements with SAG opening up separate "boutique" firms (like Ogilvy's Gramercy Park Films) to sidestep their agreed commitments to the unions. Thus started the decline in union commercial production, and now, it seems the majority of commercials shooting are non-union, and paying as little as 10%-5% of their union counterparts for national spots. I am 100% pro-union. I have been a member of various actors unions for at least 20 years, and should a strike be called, I won't scab. But this is also an illustration of how risky a strike can be on how actors can make their living, or even their ability to make a living. Strikes are absolutely necessary, but the decision to call one is a very serious decision to make, and should only be taken as a last resort. The results can be a breakthrough to getting working artists to be fairly compensated for their huge contributions to making a show a hit. But they can also alter the working environment forever, for better or for worse. Some actors during these times may have experienced these events differently and I'm interested in hearing those takes in the comments. I just thought my experience might be informative to those who have yet to experience labor turmoil in our industry. In solidarity, \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ EDITED for grammar

How to Make Sure an Actor is Legal

How to Make Sure an Actor is Legal

Posted on Mar 22nd

I have a problem that makes me uncomfortable. An actress is interested in acting in my film that included nudity and intimate scenes, but she looks pretty young. I asked her her age but she wouldn’t tell me, which makes me suspicious. She claims that she is legal, but I have no « proof » and there is almost nothing about her online, not even her real name. I only found her profile on Linkedin and even though her jobs are most often done by adults, they are still open to minors. I also have no proof that she did work there. How do I make sure she is not lying and that she really is 18 + to make sure I don’t break the law and don’t hire a vulnerable teenager girl? (note : I’m a female actor and this is a feminist project. I’m not interested in portraying teenagers in a sexual way, which is why I want to make sure she is legal).

better actor sandra bullock or julia roberts?

better actor sandra bullock or julia roberts?

Posted on Mar 22nd

taking into account both of their films, to settle a dispute i’m having with a friend. [View Poll](https://www.reddit.com/poll/11z0z9p)

The Importance of User Experience: A Guide for Actors

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Building a Strong Online Brand: Tips for Actors

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I'm your buddy Bottie, I was hiding behind the scenes, but now that you've found me I'd be happy to tell you what I'm doing.

Actor Website helper: Bottie

I just wrote a few fun facts about Web For Actors

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Click here to check them out. I hope it will cause involuntary audible response.