AGGREGATED ACTING FORUMS

Build a smart actor website in 90 seconds! Click here to begin.

LF nervous male voice

LF nervous male voice

Posted on Jul 7th

I got an oc named Parker, his only personality trait is just being timid pretty much. I just discovered this subreddit and I thought posting in here would be easier than going down voice actor websites, spotify music, and realistic text to speech bots so here's some more info: he's a teen to young adult, easily off-put and not hard to scare. not always but there's usually some hesitancy and fear in his voice. I would describe it like Taro Yamada from yandere simulator just more whiny if that makes sense. another thing is I found this song here: [https://open.spotify.com/track/11NH1FcVnqMOEa5U0BZtWs?si=5c85436cf5fd4242](https://open.spotify.com/track/11NH1FcVnqMOEa5U0BZtWs?si=5c85436cf5fd4242), it sounds almost exactly like how I picture their voice except it'd be more masculine.

Should I Shave My Head for A Featured (Non-Speaking) Role in Blockbuster Film, Where I Work Opposite An A-List Actor

Should I Shave My Head for A Featured (Non-Speaking) Role in Blockbuster Film, Where I Work Opposite An A-List Actor

Posted on Jul 7th

Today, a huge director picked me for a non-speaking, yet "pivotal" role in a blockbuster ($350M+) production. My name was put up for the role at 2pm today, and by 3:50pm, I was offered the job. I would be shooting for two days, earning 3k, where I, among a crowd of extras, are selected in the scene to work closely opposite a huge A-list talent (Marvel big), before having a breakdown in reaction to the character's dismissal of myself (a good scene to show off my chops, yet no lines or character name). The role, however, would require me to shave my head ***tomorrow***. My representation suggest to take the part, considering the size of the project, and that auditions are slowing down, due to a lack of new productions over the next few months, allowing me to grow my hair back in time. I just got new headshots, and wrapped a leading role in a 10 episode show for a small network which is releasing in a month from now. I'm worried about not being able to ride the wave of that show, yet my gut says to take this role, as I'll live in regret if I don't take up the opportunity. I've dreamed of working with this director, yet I'm worried about how this shaving will threaten other roles for me. It would take about 6 months to grow my hair back. I would love to know your thoughts. [View Poll](https://www.reddit.com/poll/vtf2nc)

acting class with social anxiety

acting class with social anxiety

Posted on Jul 7th

i signed up for acting class for next year of school (hs) and if i get it i will be really embarassed and anxious. i have social anxiety and i have slight feelings of regret for signing up but i really want to be an actor some day. sometimes when all i have to do is read in front of the class i get a little shaky and i have no friends to help either since im also introverted. i hope this didnt sound dumb. i think its a little foolish that someone who struggles to talk to people wants to have a job where its mostly talking to people. opinions? help? tips? again, sorry oeifhdkcnjenjqjcoemc

Tattooed actors

Tattooed actors

Posted on Jul 7th

I’ve worked for a long time as a musical theater actress but decided a few years ago it wasn’t bringing me the same joy it used to. Since then I’ve done all the things I thought I wasn’t allowed to do as an actor, mainly getting lots of cool tattoos. As much as I love them I’m feeling slightly regretful as I want to get back into acting. Do any actors here have experience with tattoos? Were you ever turned away or do you cover them up for auditions? Would love to hear from fellow tattooed actors.

“Looking” like an actor

“Looking” like an actor

Posted on Jul 7th

Deleted my previous post because of rude, snarky comments. What does it mean to “look” like an actor? What are some actor stereotypes that might cause people to assume you’re an actor? Do you think comments like these are based on your appearance or overall persona or something else?

Reached a tiny breakthrough in my acting class.

Reached a tiny breakthrough in my acting class.

Posted on Jul 7th

New actor here. For the past couple of days, I was practicing how to be vulnerable for a monologue. Aside from being able to cry on cue, I found it extremely difficult to really let the emotion play in my mind for it to be authentic. It wasn’t until the actual day of class that I was to really able feel something real, even if it was for a brief 5-10 seconds! Honestly it almost felt like this whole acting thing may not be for me if I couldn’t do the most simplest thing, but my teacher gave me enough good direction to push through. It’s the small wins that count, right?

I don't know what job to pursue if I don't do acting

I don't know what job to pursue if I don't do acting

Posted on Jul 7th

I've always wanted to become an actor but if I'm being honest with myself, I don't know if I want to become an actor badly enough to actually become a successful one (in terms of making it my only source of income). I've always thought that I wanted to become an actor because I wanted to make something that I was proud of and do something that I truly enjoyed, but I've now realized that if I'm not able to become an actor that makes a decent amount of money, then I don't want to pursue it nearly as much. But the main reason I want to become an actor is because of how fun it seems to have the relationships with other cast members. So I'm writing this to ask if you guys have any ideas for jobs that are very social and you can develop really good relationships with people. ​ TLDR: I want a job that is similar to acting in the sense that you can develop great relationships with people

Got my first audition on actors access!

Got my first audition on actors access!

Posted on Jul 7th

I submitted to my first projects yesterday and just got my first audition for principal part in a commercial! I’m ecstatic and don’t want to screw this up! Does anyone have tips for nailing commercial auditions? As I know they differ from film. Thanks!!

I'm 14 and my dream is to be an actress. What do I do once I'm 18?

I'm 14 and my dream is to be an actress. What do I do once I'm 18?

Posted on Jul 7th

I'm 14. My life long dream is to be an actress and be known in the world, but I know how difficult the industry is. I'm scared that I'll fail and never reach my dream and make it in the industry. I know how difficult it actually is to become famous, but I'm not looking for fame. Yes, I dont want to obviously make an impact and be known as an actress but it's not my MAIN goal. I just love acting and it's my only passion, but I still want to "make it" fortunately i know my parents are there to support me with this. But does anyone have any advice? I'm really afraid that nothing will ever work out because I want this so bad and it's the only thing I can ever picture myself doing in life, but I know how hard it is. Please help. if you have anything, let me know. I'll take any help/advice/info you can get no matter what it is. Thank you!!

What actors/actresses are exciting you lately?

What actors/actresses are exciting you lately?

Posted on Jul 7th

Who or what performances in the world of acting are getting you excited lately? It doesn't have to be something new, just someone/something lately that that made you think “Dang I just wish I was that good”? I'm posting on behalf of r/hobbies. We're trying to better understand the aspirational side of acting, so that we can get people excited to try something new. I don't know much about acting, hence why I'm here. Any and all feedback is appreciated :)

Using Instagram to Brand Yourself?

Using Instagram to Brand Yourself?

Posted on Jul 7th

I'm starting fresh on instagram again using my name. I'm 24, I like to act and direct. I took courses in college and my degree is towards that however since the pandemic, I haven't been able to kick start my career. I was wondering if I could use instagram as a way to promote and brand myself as an aspiring actress/director by posting reels and vlogs documenting my journey on Backstage/AA/CN? Any advice would be highly appreciated!

Best Acting Studio/Schools in Chicago?

Best Acting Studio/Schools in Chicago?

Posted on Jul 7th

Anyone have experience with Studios for Actors in Chicago ? Which would you recommend and Why? Thanks in Advance.

Advise for aspiring actor/voice actor?

Advise for aspiring actor/voice actor?

Posted on Jul 7th

I've been involved in acting for year now. I am a freshman in college and I've been acting since I was in 8th grade. I love acting and it's something I'm incredibly passionate about. I want to do bigger things in my life and I don't know where to begin. I love the idea of voice acting (though I've never tried it before). Any kind of acting is appealing to me (theatre, shows, movies, anything). Where is a good place for a teenager like me to begin?

San Francisco actors: Actors Access or SF Casting?

San Francisco actors: Actors Access or SF Casting?

Posted on Jul 7th

Just moved back to the area and I'm unsure which is currently the better platform. Previously, I was seeing more/higher quality listings and getting consistent auditions and work from SFCasting compared to AA, so I'm leaning more toward SFC despite the higher cost. But I know that a lot could have changed in the 5 years I've been away. What are your thoughts?

Getting Into Acting After Retirement From Regular Job?

Getting Into Acting After Retirement From Regular Job?

Posted on Jul 7th

I was just wondering how to go about this in Los Angeles. I have seen some actors and actresses on tv and in movies do this...but was not sure where to start? Thanks.

Success, what is it and how do I get it?

Success, what is it and how do I get it?

Posted on Jul 6th

I read the posts on this community with interest. I work in the arts firstly I was an [actor](https://www.hardgraft.co.uk/free-low-pay/), then a [writer](https://www.hardgraft.co.uk/inspiration-will-come-i-found-mine-on-a-bus/) and now I produce theatre. I work in 'show' business, with the emphasis on the business. This is something the arts has a problem with, yes we have to be innovative, imaginative and arty, but we must never forget that to be '[successful](https://www.hardgraft.co.uk/how-to-be-a-successful-artist/)' we need to be able to carry on repeating the process and earn a living. I'd like to hear your thoughts on success and what being successful means to you all.

Hello I’m a new theatre actor

Hello I’m a new theatre actor

Posted on Jul 6th

I’m a new theatre actor ( I mostly do film) I’ve done one play so far but it was a short one in a list of other short ones. I got offered the lead role for this full length play based off my performance from the first. Anyways I kinda get a little nervous thinking about putting on a play. I made a post recently about thinking about quitting this play but the director didn’t let me go easy but instead talked me into staying. The script on the pdf was about 100 pages so I’m not sure just how long that will be to perform. Anyways the director says for rehearsals we’re not gonna rehearsal top to bottom but instead we will rehearse all scene that happen in this location , then rehearse all scenes that happen in this location, etc. and she said she wants to give as much time off as possible. We perform in September and we start rehearsals in August. Is it ever normal to not rehearse from top to bottom ?

How much should I ask for as the voice of a podcast?

How much should I ask for as the voice of a podcast?

Posted on Jul 6th

The work will start unpaid. That's fine. I knew what it was when I signed up. Mostly doing it for fun. But producer did say that if they decided to monetize actors would be payed. But there was a sentence in the contract that says I waive any right to compensation. I'm not signing that until I get in writing that if they decide to monetize I get a percentage. I'm just not sure how much to ask for. Voiceover rate guides don't really mention podcasting ad revenue. Figured I'd ask here.

Will i ever make it as an actor?

Will i ever make it as an actor?

Posted on Jul 6th

I am going to graduate from high school in around 6 months or so, I have planned to apply to a list of numeral Acting colleges and my college applications start in November. I have a decent amount of experience acting in short films and projects due to luckily my mother owning a production house and allowing me to learn how its like working on a set. I've always wanted to be an actor ever since I was little. I love acting from school assemblies to competitions I've loved doing them all, is always like to add to the background of the character I am supposed to be as it helps me become more immersed. My plan seems to be pretty solid on paper but I'm scared, what if I don't make it to a good college? Once I do that does not guarantee me jobs in the field, I'm Indian but I don't look like an average Indian I would say I look more white than most of the people here but don't look 'white' enough to be considered as a role for a white male. Now obviously that affects my chances right? Cuz when casting directors are looking for an 'indian male' character they are looking for someone more brown, however when they are looking for a white male they are looking for someone who is ethnically white so that would disqualify me from a few roles and how would I fit into a niche category for these directors to find? im sorry if this seems like a rant but im overall very scared as this already is a tough field and even though I love being inf front of an audience or a camera im just really intimidated by the idea of being out there alone, trying to make it as an actor.

Berlin people: Is moving to Berlin a nice idea?

Berlin people: Is moving to Berlin a nice idea?

Posted on Jul 6th

I am an unemployed 24 year old actress in Portugal. Right now I am studying to get a plan B but I am so tired ot this country. Finding jobs in the creative scene is impossible!!! But not only in the creative scene. It is impossible…. Plus our salary is TERRIBLE. I dont speak german. But in 2 years I think I can start learning. I would love to share some ideas

How do you slow down?

How do you slow down?

Posted on Jul 6th

I sat in on a webinar with a voice actor and did a read. While I was thankful to make them laugh with my delivery, it was repeated for me to slow down. How do you pace yourself?

Acting classes

Acting classes

Posted on Jul 6th

does anyone know the best actors who do 1 to 1 acting classes

Casting Networks VS Backstage

Casting Networks VS Backstage

Posted on Jul 6th

Hey there. This may have been asked a hundred times already (I may have even already asked) but I’m curious… Is anyone finding more success on one platform over the other? I see Backstage has more roles aligned with what I want to be doing. I’m getting auditions via Casting Networks though. Just want other actors’ thoughts and opinions. Casting directors, please feel free to weigh in as well. Which one is more worth my money and time sifting through? Thank you.

People keep asking me if I’m an actress

People keep asking me if I’m an actress

Posted on Jul 6th

There have been multiple people (complete strangers and acquaintances at work) who have randomly asked if I’m an actress, or who say I should be an actress. Why would they say this without even knowing me? Is it purely a looks thing?

Stage name question

Stage name question

Posted on Jul 6th

My current last name is the same as a couple famous actors who used to be relevant 10+ years ago (no relation). I have been thinking about changing my “stage name” to my birth name (not a name I’ve ever used publicly as I was adopted as a baby)… however my birth name is Italian and I don’t know that I necessarily “look” Italian - I have dark blonde hair and am fair skinned, but my grandparents on my bio dad’s side were from-Italy-Italian. I look at some famous Italian actresses (Edie Falco, Drea De Matteo, Lady Gaga) and they’re all blonde.

What’s your dream role?

What’s your dream role?

Posted on Jul 5th

Hey guys, what’s your dream role? For screen actors and teather actors as well! Or even what kind of character you would like to be in the future? And if you already got it, who it was?

ELI5 What even is SAG?

ELI5 What even is SAG?

Posted on Jul 5th

I’m sure this question gets asked a lot, but I’m literally someone that has no idea how unions work, and I’m extremely confused. Are these unions the same as like a working union as some people protest for? I’m just so confused. What makes SAG kinda necessary and what even is it? It says it’s like a group of actors but like I’m still extremely confused. Explain like I’m 5? From the beginning as much as possible.

Is getting a nursing degree worth it for an aspiring actor?

Is getting a nursing degree worth it for an aspiring actor?

Posted on Jul 5th

Just graduated high school. Is nursing a good job for pursuing acting?

What role were you cast in that surprised you the most?

What role were you cast in that surprised you the most?

Posted on Jul 5th

I see a lot of posts where people seem discouraged because they don't think they have the model looks or they are too old or that their race or height or gender will set them back. I thought it might help some newer folks to hear stories about how actors get cast in roles they never in a million years thought they would get. It doesn't have to be a big part, just something where you were cast against type. My example: Tears ago, I auditioned for a major commercial where I was supposed to play a supervisor. The supervisor was training the lead character (20-something man, all men auditioning were White or Asian)on his first day of work as an aerospace mechanic. I did not get the part of the supervisor but I did get the lead part of the 20-something...they rewrote the script for me and I'm a 40-yr, BIPOC woman. Surprise! Sometimes good work in the audition is enough to make them rethink the script. So, be okay with being yourself.

New specs on role I submitted for

New specs on role I submitted for

Posted on Jul 5th

Not sure if there’s really an answer, but I sent in a self tape for a role in a low budget feature and I thought I did really well. The deadline was yesterday, and today the breakdown was posted with new specs for my role specifying that they want actors who are exactly 17-19 years old so they look like high schoolers. They said not to resubmit, as they are still considering all actors, but that feels like a lie to keep people from resubmitting. I just, like just, turned 20, and I look young, so I feel like I have a chance, but I also feel like they’ve given up on the past submissions. Is it just false hope thinking I’m still be considered/got the part?

How do casting directors know which actors will have good chemistry together?
What do you do to get a sense of productivity when not acting?

What do you do to get a sense of productivity when not acting?

Posted on Jul 5th

Hey folks, As per the title I am struggling a bit to maintain my productivity when out of work. I suppose it's the great irony of acting that actors tend to spend more time not acting than actually doing so. I have a strong work ethic and want to continue to feel a sense of accomplishment each day so I'd be curious to hear what daily rituals you all have to keep in the game. So far I have been focusing on writing, reading (scripts, plays etc) and doing some vocal exercises. It feels good but I have this nagging sensation that the best way to hone my craft is by doing it, so it tends to stay in my mind. Any tips, tricks or ideas you have would be greatly appreciated- I'm sure there is something I could be doing that I'm not or working on some skills that would make me more employable! Thank you

Actor’s Access Eco-cast description changed from “role name” to “role name - SENT TO PRODUCERS”

Actor’s Access Eco-cast description changed from “role name” to “role name - SENT TO PRODUCERS”

Posted on Jul 5th

basically the title but basically after my callback/director’s session, my eco cast description changed and it said this. Does that mean I specifically got sent to the producers or the role itself got sent to the producers? I know none of it matters but just wanted to know if this has happened to anyone else before? Thanks in advance!

8 years into LA … and …

8 years into LA … and …

Posted on Jul 5th

Hey y’all. I’m 33 and just feeling disgruntled and beat down after 7-8 years in LA. I just wrapped up a lead role in a small theater show here in LA proper that was really well received… the producers are searching for a bigger venue/theater right now. I have a speaking part on a cable tv show (not network) airing in August and I’ve worked with some serious heavy hitters- directors and actors but mostly in the capacity of indie short films and indie features and the few and far between commercial. My point is - I’m now 8 years into this city and I have yet to book an episodic on a network show or a studio feature etc etc. i have my SAG card, but don’t want to give up but also don’t want to be delusional. There have been so few auditions lately I’ve even thought about switching markets. Atlanta maybe ? Thoughts on any of this appreciated. Much love to everyone in this thread for keeping going and doing the damn thing!

Moment by Moment

Moment by Moment

Posted on Jul 5th

Hey actors, do you generally plan out your characters emotions moment by moment, or just understand the scene as a whole?

A question about preparation

A question about preparation

Posted on Jul 5th

Actors, how do you know you’ve done enough preparation to fully play your role? You can prepare till the cows come home but when is the point where you trust you are ready?

Suggestions for finding an agent. CO or LA?

Suggestions for finding an agent. CO or LA?

Posted on Jul 5th

Hi everyone. I'm an actress living in CO. I used to live in Los Angeles but moved a few years ago. Currently, I have no agent. I have a manager and get maybe 1-2 auditions a year from them. Does anyone know if talent agents in Los Angeles would be willing to represent talent that live outside of LA? I have a good reel, including an Oscar nominated short film I worked in. Recently, I worked in a historical biography (I found the auditions via Facebook groups). I train consistently and practice, honing my skills. I love acting, and will never give up! I would love any guidance or suggestions. Would getting a talent agent in CO be better, perhaps?

How can actors work on acting?

How can actors work on acting?

Posted on Jul 5th

When you play a sport you can always take private lessons to get better. But after those private lessons you can go to the park and practice your kicking, or throwing, or skating, etc. When it comes to acting you can also take classes to get better, but what is actors “going to the park?”

Kinda confused wit union stuff

Kinda confused wit union stuff

Posted on Jul 5th

So based of the little bit of research I did. You can work union (SAG-AFTRA) or non-union. And apparently, in order to join SAG you have to work at least 3 days on a union project. So I guess my questions are. 1. Could I work for a union project on actors access like SAG even tho I’m not in a union? 2. if I get into SAG am I not allowed to work non-union projects anymore?

ADHD/acting prep

ADHD/acting prep

Posted on Jul 5th

Hey everyone! I booked my first recurring on a show and it’s the coolest role. My adhd is something I struggled with in university when it came to studying, and now it’s really affecting my acting prep- no matter how badly I want or need to prep something, I cannot seem to being myself to do it. A part of it is also my fear of not doing it “perfectly” and it’s just not a fun time. I know this is just how my brain works but I can’t help but be disappointed in myself and I refuse to feel like this for the run of the show. Any actors with adhd- please advise!!

How do you add photos to IMDB?

How do you add photos to IMDB?

Posted on Jul 4th

My girlfriend is an actress and has been in a few TV shows. She has an IMDB page that someone else created but has no idea who, but it doesn't have a photo. I've registered for a free trial use of IMDBpro but I still have absolutely no idea how to add images Anyone know how to do this?

I'm gonna do it!

I'm gonna do it!

Posted on Jul 4th

I've spent the last year, perhaps even longer, where I haven't had a single hour of not worrying. "Will I be a good actress?" "Will I even get into college?" "How will I afford to live?" Well, this morning I decided that I've had enough. I'm going to get into a BFA program. I'm going to apply and audition to many many schools. It may not be a top school, (I mean, who knows, it very well could be!) but I'll still get into a place where I'll be happy and learn as much as possible. I'm going to get into a rep company. Equity positions are few and far between - so what? I'll audition for every company in the country if I have to. And I may not get in the first time around, but I'll find a place where I'll feel comfortable and get to put on good theater, season after season. I'm going to found a successful rep company. Yes, I'll have to start small of course - but luckily small outdoor theaters are my favorite type! WHO DOESN'T WANT TO SEE TWELFTH NIGHT IN DRAG?!? It's time to start living my life!

What is a Watch & Advise?

What is a Watch & Advise?

Posted on Jul 4th

Good day everyone, so I've just been placed on a Watch & Advise for a co-star role for a network show. Just wanted some brief information, if anyone else has been placed on one of these before. Its my first time hearing it. My manager said that I made it past the casting to the producers and that its being sent up even further, but that they may have sent the same message out to another actor(s) but does anyone have any knowledge of this terminology? Does it mean the same thing as a "pin" or "on avail"? Would definitely appreciate it. Thank you!

Is it okay to give up this credit?

Is it okay to give up this credit?

Posted on Jul 4th

Now I’m not giving up acting it really is a passion of mine and I’ve been fortunate enough to get a agent recently. I love being on sets in front of the camera. I respect theatre but it’s not really my thing. I did a thirty minute play in June and I was very nervous ( I know it was super short haha) but it went great everybody ended up liking it had a bunch of people come up to me afterwards, it felt great as a actor. The same theatre company reached out to me to do another play which is much longer ( I’m guessing between 1-2 hours) they gave me the role without having to audition for it. Even though I accomplished a few nights of that short play I’m honestly not sure if I can handle this new one. They haven’t cast the other characters yet but I know rehearsals start in august and performing is in September and I just don’t feel like that’s enough time for me. I woke up today feeling a little anxious just thinking about it. Almost to the point where I want to take Xanax or something, hell I even wanted to for the 30 minute play. I know we are supposed to push ourselves out of our comfort zone but I just don’t think I can pull this off on a stage. Is it okay to quit and to give up this credit? They haven’t posted casting yet like I said so I want to give them time to find another actor. Am I being too dramatic? I don’t know what to do I don’t know if it’s wrong. If this character was on a set I’d be much more into it.

A Life in Parts: a great story, missing some parts?

A Life in Parts: a great story, missing some parts?

Posted on Jul 4th

Hey folks. I just finished Bryan Cranston's autobiography, A Life in Parts. It's a great read. It's inspiring, dark, funny, and ecomonically written. There's a lot for an actor, and a fan of Breaking Bad, to chew on. Bryan's passion for acting and ambition is something I can confidently say I share, for better or worse. And the fact that he came from a background in which he didn't have a whole lot of help in the business is something I relate to deeply as well. Reading this book in my life right now was a good decision...mostly...I think. Let me explain. I had this book for a few years before I got around to reading it, because living vicariously through better people than I isn't something I get any joy or inspiration from. I'm a doer, not a dreamer, as I know all of us here are. In fact, I'm at the point in my life where I struggle to watch some stories because of how badly I want to be at that level. Call it jealousy, lack of perspective, whatever you want. It's there regardless, and I'm done trying to fight against it. It's wasted energy, and I'd rather devote energy to figuring out how to use it. I've been at this a very long time, and I while I'm usually pretty confident in my abilities, I'm really struggling with what I can do to get to that next level (for context, I've been in the indie scene for many years, and I'm shooting to now be consistently auditioning for shows in the major TV scene, I've scratched the surface of that, but only a little). I have solid agents, but agents can only do so much. What I need is someone with real power in the industry that can really advocate for me. A real manager. I know 100 percent that if someone can get me a shot, a REAL shot, I can capitalize on it. I may not get cast in that project, that's not even what I'm worried about because it's ultimately not in my control, but I know once I get in the room for projects at that level I will be able to stay there. Consistently auditioning for major casting directors is the goal. Anyway, back to the book. Something that consistently rubbed me wrong, and this is a big reason that I don't particularly enjoy autobiographies, is how the process of finding a manager or agent is glossed over. He gets to LA, begins to "build heat" as he puts it by doing whatever projects he can and working whatever jobs he can (I'm at this step...have been for a very long time), then...he just kind of has management in the next few chapters. I may be reading too much into this because I'm too close to it. A Life in Parts isn't about the business, so I may be expecting too much. But as an actor, it was definitely frustrating. It gave me a crisis of faith if I'm being perfectly honest. I know that LA in the 80s is very different from what I'm dealing with now, but I can't shake the thought: "Bryan did the same thing I'm doing, but he found people willing to advocate for him. So, it stands to reason that it's lack of talent or likability to blame for why I've been doing the same thing and just spinning my tires for so long. I'm not enough...of what I'm not sure but I know that there ain't enough of it there." Hopefully someone else has read this book and can give me their thoughts on it. My lizard brain is going haywire about it. Also, if anyone knows of some autobiographies from actors that deal with the crushing rejection that comes with the titanic task of finding people that can advocate for you once you have solid work to show in a more tangible and honest way, please feel free to recommend it to me. I've been thinking of checking out Jenna Fischer's book. I'm trying to force myself to read more of them to try to get into their headspace.

17 years old, encouraged to take up acting by my drama teacher, dropped out of sixth form to do it, now what?

17 years old, encouraged to take up acting by my drama teacher, dropped out of sixth form to do it, now what?

Posted on Jul 4th

I’m gonna keep this short, I’m in love with film and my desire to act is purely out of my love for cinema. I’m a great actor (or so I’ve been told) and I’m very confident in my abilities. However, I live in South West England (the middle of nowhere lol) and my parents aren’t the most wealthy. I’ve got a job and I’ve paid for a self taping setup, headshots etc. however, I’m really stumped on next steps and I don’t want to regret my decision. Thoughts?

Anyone else sharing this negative thought?

Anyone else sharing this negative thought?

Posted on Jul 4th

There has been lots of chat among our fellow Union members about Casting Directors in Vancouver and it has led to a rather ugly thought. Some background: Prior to 2020, when auditions were 'in the room', I would get a callback about 15 - 20% of the time and book at about a 10% level. In the last 2 years I have had over 50 'self-tape' auditions and haven't ever had a reply from any of them. I have booked theatre and Indie movies, but they were all face-to-face auditions. Obviously, I do better in a format that may not ever come back. Let's face it, CD's have been saving themselves a lot of money over the last 2 years, so why would they return? Gossip has it that there were suddenly so many more actors taping themselves, widening the field for auditions. I don't get this: Why would union actors not go to auditions, but happily tape themselves when given the chance? To only audition during the Pandemic? Of course, the major negative in all of this is that you never get to actually met a CD who - apparently - "will remember you if you are any good and call for you to audition for other parts". One actor in our chats works part time for Casting Directors and has stated that the majority of the time, the 'first pass' of auditions aren't even seen by the CD - only an office assistant, who will then pass along a 2nd pass list to the CD for a look. A second actor spent an afternoon in 'video village' on a shoot in the last year watching a Producer looking at a 'final list' of auditions passed to them from a CD via phone. Apparently they never watched a single audition video, only made a decision based on look. At present in Vancouver there are over 30 projects filming in town. The roles list are forwarded by Producers in LA to CD's up here. They put the call out to Agents and actors audition. Given all of these facts, no-one is making enough of an impression to be 'special' in the eyes of a Casting Director. They never go to local plays to hunt for new talent, everything is done an a last-minute, 'need to fill this part, now.' basis. Thinking back to my past auditions over the last decade, I don't think that there has been a single case of a CD actually using my name in the room. You are called in, but no-one in there actually addresses you by name - they don't know you. In fact, no Casting Director that has been involved in my bookings have ever remembered me the next time I entered the room. There are less than 10 CD's working in Vancouver and they have all booked me at least once. So, You are sent to an audition based on age and look by an agent that may have more than a handful of clients in that age and look subset. The CD's aren't looking forward to anyone, particularly and don't even remember you. If you are on video, they probably won't see you, because their 'office temp' will cut you based on their ideas of what the boss wants. The Producers only see your video if you make the final, final list and probably won't watch you act as part of their decision, only to fill an immediate need. All of this leads me to think that there is no-one advocating for you and things aren't going to change anytime soon. Am I being too negative?

Background acting?

Background acting?

Posted on Jul 4th

I want to experience big movie sets as a background actor. It’s easy money and I don’t need to be famous, lol. How do I know what movies are being filmed? Do I have a chance if I’m located around Sacramento/SF? I made a profile on Casting Networks but I was wondering if you guys suggest anything else I do. I know most filming is in LA…

Moving from Austria to U.S. for acting roles; what to expect?

Moving from Austria to U.S. for acting roles; what to expect?

Posted on Jul 4th

I tried on /r/IWantOut but people weren't nice there. Hello. I'm an actress who's been on several Austrian TV shows since I was 22 in 2015, and would like to move to the US for a visa in acting. I have acted locally in theatre since I was 19 though, but not as the lead, supporting roles on stage, but went into TV as an extra aged 20 in 2013. O-1B seems to be the visa I could ask my agent to get. Currently I live in Vienna, but would be open to living in Los Angeles and working there. I have a very feminine look with ginger hair; I dress very feminine too and wouldn't really dress tomboyishly, it's not my style. I'm single, free, and able to move, no kids, no pets, nothing. Looking at moving to the US more permanently to get roles in films and TV since there's not much here in Austria and it's not as big as the US for acting. Austrian TV isn't well-rated abroad so I've heard. Wouldn't mind acting in something like a Marvel movie or perhaps a series like Grey's Anatomy which I believe has an Italian in anyway. Ideally, I'd like to be in one of Marvel's new films or TV series in the next 3-4 years, or perhaps something like a sitcom or comedy. If there's any major series for ABC, NBC, FOX, I'd probably apply to be on them. If I could, I'd really like to be in one of the next Marvel Cinematic Universe movies that are out in the US, I don't think they've had many Austrian actresses in major roles. I'd like to work with people like Benedict Cumberbatch, Elizabeth Olsen, Sabrina Carpenter, Julia Garner, those sort of actors. Moving to the US for entertainment work is more important, not the politics. I'll take any acting job provided it's not porn or onlyfans stuff, just superhero or crime dramas or period piece series, or sitcoms, provided the pay's good. Would my experience count towards being in a major franchise at all, being an actor for 7-8 years in Austria? I wouldn't mind being in a Netflix series or perhaps one for Amazon. I can speak good English, would my 7 years experience qualify me to move to the US? Dual German/English speaker. I do speak good English though. I've got an agent already, would they be able to get me an agent in the US? Sorry for all these questions. New to the American side of things.

Looking for the interview where Joseph Quinn is talking about how Eddie was the best character that he ever played.

Looking for the interview where Joseph Quinn is talking about how Eddie was the best character that he ever played.

Posted on Jul 4th

Can somebody send me the link to the interview? I’m an Instagram editor and I make cheesy sad edits and I really want to put a clip of him in the edit saying “ he was the best character I ever played, it was everything an actor could’ve asked for”. Also if you wanna see the edit lmk lmao.

The Importance of User Experience: A Guide for Actors

09.20.2024 Achieving On-Screen Success: How to Leverage User Experience for Acting Success
Check it out »

Building a Strong Online Brand: Tips for Actors

09.06.2024 Grow Your Acting Career with an Unforgettable Online Presence: Proven Strategies for Actors
Check it out »

Niche professional websites for people in the film and TV industry.

Weeee, you found me!

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

Would you like to take a look?
Click here to check them out. I hope it will cause involuntary audible response.