Ik there’s like a trillion posts a day asking the same thing. But like. I’m dumb af sooo
Always wondered whether those actors working on the big movies / shows actually do the nitty-gritty scene analysis? You often hear actors in interviews talking about getting into character, or feeling their way into the role with the director. But rarely do you hear about them doing the intellectual table stuff. Does Joaquin Phoenix really break down scenes into beats, and find objectives, verbs and the like? Do we think this is all done automatically by the great actors? Would love to hear a discussion on this; or links to actors talking about their scene analysis work. It seems to only exist within those going school or in class (and usually they are those who aren't 'at the top').
Basically, what makes an actor competitive in LA? I’m trying to plan for the future. Brief background: NC actor with 1 year studio training. I graduate in 1 year with a non-acting degree that has great employment & earning potential. Let’s say by the time I graduate I have 2 years training (different methods, on-screen emphasis, improv, combat), professional headshots, and a demo reel with some student and indie film credits. Would it be best to: 1. stay in NC and try to get signed 2. move to ATL to try and get signed because it’s the biggest market near me 3. take the plunge and move to LA People at my studio have had luck in ATL. My concerns are that I could waste time making connections in NC or ATL that could be beneficial but nowhere near LA potential. Another concern is that some student and indie films on my resume will not be competitive in LA. Is that true? If I got signed to an NC agent and managed some small TV roles is that considerably better? Or even moved to ATL for a year or two then LA? I know there’s no one right answer but I’d like to know if there are less favorable answers. What makes a “good” reel? Is it whatever shows your best capabilities or also impressive credits like Union projects? Thank you for reading. Anything I’m not thinking of please feel free to add.
So I want to be an actor - mostly doing Shakespeare but with some musical theater. I know you can go to drama school in the UK (I’m US based) and you can also study drama at regular college. But if you decide to go the “regular college” route, can you still do specifically classical acting, and do you just major or do you audition to get into a special program??? This is all very confusing to me haha. Also - BA vs BFA vs MA? What’s all that? I would like to double major if possible, I’m super interested in Shakespearean scholarship so doing English or Philosophy as a double major would be great, but can you do those while being in a theater program in a normal college? Thanks!
Hi there, I'm looking to collaborate with voice actors/actresses on a 90 second art short film project entitled 'My c\*\*t' for Encounters Film Festival 'depicts' competition. A vulgar, satirical poem matched with animation. Unfortunately the position is unpaid due to it being a no-budget project, simply for the love of it. If interested please message me for more details, I'm Sam (she/her) writer and director looking to collaborate with some like-minded performers.
Hello friends, it's been a very long time since I acted, around 5-7 years. A lot of the reason was because I was discovering who I was. And only in the past year have I begun transitioning. All my previous works and performances were pre-transition, as a cis-male, and now I am not sure how to approach things as a trans woman. I know I need new headshots and to technically get out there again, but I need to know what the best online resources may be. The pandemic kinda hit me hard, especially with the socialness of it all but my confidence and love for the art came flooding back when I became "me". I know Backstage is a thing, and ActorsAccess but I am not sure which one would be best for a newly out trans girl. I don't want to be a "superstar" I am in it for the art's sake, and maybe pocket some good money. As a male it was kind of easy-to-get roles, but I am afraid of how trans-women are treated in the industry. If there are any LGBTQ+ actors and actresses that might have a bit of insight, I would greatly appreciate it. Sorry if the post is all over the place.(>w<)
Please explain what you do and don't like about it.
I turned 18 a few months ago, I've always wanted to become an actor and experience what I've seen others do on the shows and movies I've watched. Ever since I was little I've wanted to become an actor but I was shy and couldn't even imagine opening up about that sort of thing to my grandma or mom, they haven't even done anything remotely close to acting so I would have to start the journey from the bottom which is super fine I told my grandma about my career and she was excited for me because I never had a direction for my career in my life I was 15 going on 16 and really looking forward but then Covid hit and I had to do online school and sit in the house all day this let me to really look at my insecurities, I have insecurities about my face, mainly my nose which is somewhat deviated and my smile and teeth as well as my jaw which are a little bit shifted to the right side of my face, I can live with my teeth and mouth but my nose really bothers me and I feel like the only comfortable way is to speak to a professional about it. It took a lot for me to post this on here but It also feels like I'm lifting a weight off my back I'm not really open with my mom or grandma about said insecurities but it did feel good to post this :). I have no acting experience other than watching a ton of movies and tv shows I really want to get a start but I have no idea how too will anyone help me with any of my questions I live in Florida but may be moving back to New Jersey depends how I feel I do plan on making a youtube channel to express my passions in my life and become an entertainer as well because I've had a passion for gaming as well in my life and I now want to make acting a new passion. Can someone give me some Direction for my start <3? Anything is Appreciated If we can talk in the comments that would be great :).
Ok this is kind of a long story so bear with me. Back in March, I got an agent REALLY LUCKILY. I only had 3 student film credits to my name, and this agency only takes pretty established actors that have co-stars or are SAG-eligible. However, I met the agent at a school networking event and because we really got along and shared the same alma mater, she decided to take a risk on me and took me under her wing. I was ecstatic. Flash forward two months, and I still had gotten 0 auditions from her. I was really worried, so I contacted her 2-3 times through text asking if I should be worried I didn't get auditions, what to do, etc. etc. She reassured me and said everything was fine, she was submitting me, don't worry. Then in the first week of May I got two auditions, and the next week, I got one. Things were picking up and I was ecstatic. Anyways, then I booked an unpaid short film on my own but I thought it might be kind of sketchy so I asked my agent about the contract. She said she would get back to me tomorrow about it, and I asked if we could call at 2PM. She said yes, but then did not pick up the phone and didn't show any interest in calling. The next day, I finally just made the decision on my own and decided not to go for it. I told her and she just responded with "ok." and then I said I would still love her feedback as to whether I made the right decision and she read it but did not respond. Flash forward a week, and I still hadn't got an audition from her (so it's been about 3 weeks without an audition at that point), so I texted her asking if I should be worried. She responds with "sigh...really?" and I told her I'm not sure if that meant she was surprised I haven't, or whether she was annoyed I was asking. And if so, I apologize but I just don't really know industry standard of how much to contact an agent and like how many auditions I should be expecting. (She read this and did not respond). I asked around all my friends and they said that its unusual to not get an audition for 3 weeks, but at the same time, I am a beginner? so Idk. I just wanted reassurance but I don't know if that came off as insulting and insecure. Now, I'm super worried as to where our relationship stands and whether she's decided to just unofficially drop me. I'm also just kicking myself because I don't know if I was too needy and whether May/June is just a lull and if I should have just waited it out without contacting her about the lack of auditions. Like, I can't tell if my contacting her just ruined something that would not have been a big deal if I just waited it out. I've also heard from other people who used to be with her that she doesn't really tell you when she's "done" with you, she's unconfrontational, so she just kind of ghosts you and you stop getting auditions. Do I start looking for new agents? How do I fix this? Am I overthinking all of this?
Are there any updates on this? I've seen this idea being tossed around in the past, now with their yearly rates almost reaching $300 a year it seems inevitable. The website is a mess and the customer service is either non-existent or outsourced. I really wish casting directors would just boycott it and use Casting Frontier or Actors Access. The problem would be resolved so fast.
Hello im a 17 y/o and i've done a couple of voice acting videos or even voice overs, but i think im missing le coup d grace. I think my voice acting skills could be a little better so if anyone is willing to give me some tips i would gladly appreciate it!
Hi all — I’m a filmmaker currently in talks with people at CAA and UTA to cast a few actors for my short. I have several incredible actors that want to read the screenplay and their agents are asking for an offer. That said - is it fine if I mention the other that are reading and may be involved? As long as I'm truthful and share they haven't locked in fully yet? I'm just not sure the "rules" of courtesy, but I do know if were an actor I'd have more hope for a project if I knew others that might be part of the packaged project.
Hey there, I m curious to know if there's any truth to this rumor I heard about film studios in LA/ US not recognizing 01b actor visas from Canada and only hiring you if you have a green card? Can anyone elaborate on this if there's any truth to this? Thanks
Hi Reddit, I’m a 32 year old woman considering getting an MFA next year. I’ve auditioned for programs a couple of times, will be getting a coach and working my bum off to get into a program in 2023. I would love to hear of any other older actors especially those identifying as women and your experience completing your MFA in your early-mid 30s? Also, how you balanced other commitments like family, spouse, ageism etc. I know it’s possible. Would love some first hand experiences! Thanks!
Hi Reddit, I’m a 32 year old woman considering getting an MFA next year. I’ve auditioned for programs a couple of times, will be getting a coach and working my bum off to get into a program in 2023. I would love to hear of any other older actors especially those identifying as women and your experience completing your MFA in your early-mid 30s? Also, how you balanced other commitments like family, spouse, ageism etc. I know it’s possible. Would love some first hand experiences! Thanks!
Hi everyone. I'm not an actor myself but find it fascinating in many ways. One thing I've noticed when watching TV or movies is that actors seem to hardly ever blink and it looks like they're always focused on another actor's right eye. Am I overthinking this or are actors trained to try not to blink and might also be trained to look into a fellow actors one eye and nowhere else? It might just be my imagination though I'm not sure. I know it's a goofy question and apologize but am certainly curious about it. Thanks for your time :)
I’m new to LA. I’m in search for an acting school that actually cares about the actor and is passionate about teaching. From what I’ve noticed, 90% of these schools are all after money and they don’t care about anything else. Can ANYONE PLEASE suggest me an acting school, teacher, institute that they’ve attended that I can actually learn from and become a better actor.
I firmly believe that I have a unique look...and an ability to hit levels of intensity and passion others can't. My look is most likely a pigeon hole..I'm ok with that. I'm just trying to find a way to be a part of film in any way using these "traits" I have. I also believe whole heartedly...if I had a chance to show emotional range in a show like s.o.a. or a super underrated movie like hellride, I could have a chance. Any advice from this community would be unbelievably appreciated. Just looking for a starting point. Thank you to anyone who reads this. And good luck on your own journey!
My whole life I told everyone I wanted to be a mechanical engineer. My parents know I am going to become an engineer, and have already taken the A-level subjects that are for engineering. However I have just now realized my potential, my talent and my passion for acting. I have not done any acting activities in or out of school, but I feel like I am naturally good at acting. I am also a bit afraid to open up to my parents about this, because I feel like they will try to talk me out of it as it is a risky path to take. I want to meet new people in the acting industry and strive with them. This is my dream. What should I do? Should I tell my parents about this sudden shift in careers? Should I continue with engineering for income to invest in getting into acting, for example work as an engineer to help afford drama school, etc. I am very passionate about this and I know I am going to succeed. Thank you so much! :)
I am not an actor or actress However I had to post this Why is it that actors feel the need to stutter, especially during dramatic or emotional scenes?? Its so overdone imo that I get kind of annoyed watching it. It just lunges out of the screen - an “I’m acting btw” giveaway… especially when it’s not only one actor doing it in a scene but multiple I feel a bit triggered whenever I hear something like “but I- I-“ ,” bu-bu but “, etc.
How has it affected your acting? I’m trying to get mental health treatment and I think I’m gonna start medication and I was wondering how it’s affected other people and their work? Tbh I’m scared how it’ll affect my work, but I need to get on medication to live like a functioning person. Is there anyone who has experienced this? I’m afraid of fogginess, lack of creativity, and the weight gain people talk about.
Casting call! I'm looking for actors for an upcoming YouTube video series about paranormal activity caught on camera. It's not a paid gig but it's super fun, quick and easy. The videos will be along the lines of the videos you can find on "Slapped Ham" YouTube channel, basically people encountering and filming ghosts, aliens, creatures, and other scary things. You simply record it yourself and send me the footage to edit and do some movie magic. DM me for more information.
Just wondering if it’s possible or am I just holding onto a bad dream.
Hi all — I’m a filmmaker currently in talks with people at CAA and UTA to cast a few actors for my short. I’ve written to specific agents sharing the person I want to cast and a few have replied back saying they need it to be “an offer”. What’s the difference between saying you want to cast an actor and “an offer”? Aren’t they the same? Do I literally have to say “offer” or does that include a list of what the package would be for them involved in the film (pay, dates, etc)? Also, this will be a SAG Signatory film for anyone that’s wondering.
I turned 18 a few months ago, I've always wanted to become an actor and experience what I've seen others do on the shows and movies I've watched. Ever since I was little I've wanted to become an actor but I was shy and couldn't even imagine opening up about that sort of thing to my grandma or mom, they haven't even done anything remotely close to acting so I would have to start the journey from the bottom which is super fine I told my grandma about my career and she was excited for me because I never had a direction for my career in my life I was 15 going on 16 and really looking forward but then Covid hit and I had to do online school and sit in the house all day this let me to really look at my insecurities, I have insecurities about my face, mainly my nose which is somewhat deviated and my smile and teeth as well as my jaw which are a little bit shifted to the right side of my face, I can live with my teeth and mouth but my nose really bothers me and I feel like the only comfortable way is to speak to a professional about it. It took a lot for me to post this on here but It also feels like I'm lifting a weight off my back I'm not really open with my mom or grandma about said insecurities but it did feel good to post this :). I have no acting experience other than watching a ton of movies and tv shows I really want to get a start but I have no idea how too will anyone help me with any of my questions I live in Florida but may be moving back to New Jersey depends how I feel I do plan on making a youtube channel to express my passions in my life and become an entertainer as well because I've had a passion for gaming as well in my life and I now want to make acting a new passion. Can someone give me some Direction for my start <3? Anything is Appreciated If we can talk in the comments that would be great :).
Just a random thought I’d like to discuss.. When I was in freshman year of high school I became obsessed with the idea of being an actress. I would study different roles and immerse myself in quotes by famous actors. I felt a pull to this idea, not for the fame or money, but just an urge to act, and to do so in a way that people are genuinely captivated and want to watch. After a while I decided I was being silly to think that someone from the middle of no where would become a famous and well recognized actress. I let it go. But to this day, when I’m asked about passions and what I might like to do with my life, acting almost always comes up in my mind. Whenever I see good acting in a movie; I don’t merely enjoy it, I feel an urge to be the one in that position, making others believe in a made up situation, with joy, sadness, or terror. The main thing is, whenever I think of this, I genuinely feel that I would make a great actress.. it’s just a feeling inside of me that says, “hey, I could do that! And I could do it well” maybe it’s silly or delusional, but despite not having any formal training, I think there’s maybe some gold buried deep within me, wanting to shine through
yeah, i know they say 'no stupid questions' but we all know they don't mean it, so heres mine. i've seen plenty of people do self-auditions and post them for roles they either did or didn't cast in, although they're always for big productions like euphoria or shameless. question is, how are people finding out about these auditions? i don't expect to get the roles but it would be nice to know how to access these auditions before these shows blow up after their pilot. my guess is that agents find these roles or theres a gigantic memo that all these sneaky actors are intentionally hiding from me because they don't want me to steal their roles. thoughts?
G’day guys! As you can see from the title, would love to get in touch / work with someone from the states on standard US accent. I’m an Australian film actor and in definite need of practice haha. Looking forward to some responses :)
So recently I wanted to peruse a career in acting since my family has been super supportive of me doing so. Anyway, I search up some places, and started doing my thing. I had gotten a call from an “agency” John Casablancas, and they had asked if I was interested in acting and modeling and if so then I would have a zoom interview and have to preform a short commercial. Got to the Interview, was told we would be put into groups A (experienced), B (a little experience), C (no experience). I was in A and there were only two other people who were there. You would assume that for an interview it would be one on one? Yeah no, we had to preform in front of anyone who was in the group. Once I did my commercial, we were told we would get a call if they liked us or whatever. I ended up getting a call back and was told I was getting a second interview? At this point I was so happy but the next day (today) I had a weird feeling once I checked an email they sent me saying that for the second interview, we would be put in groups again of A (professional actor or model, ready to be thrown into the industry), B (need practice and will be charged a one time fee of $295), C (not interested). After reading this I was a little suspicious about the fee? So I decided to do a little research which yes, I should have done first, and found out that the $295 is to hold your spot if you are chosen and then you pay $2000 to take classes. Tomorrow is my second interview and I’m really debating just not showing up because of this. I don’t want to be in a situation where I’m told I’m an A, if I do get it and then be told, “but we do think you need some training,” apparently that happened to a lot of people where they would push them to get training anyways. I’ve seen some good reviews about how it’s not a scam and how people have actually gotten roles and went through the schooling. But I’m really skeptical, I don’t want to not show up and be embarrassed but at the same time I don’t want to sit there and have them possibly throw me a sales pitch. Obviously acting is very hard to get into and takes work and classes. (I do have 4 years of experience) I’m not sure what to do, I need the community’s opinion. Should I flake or show up and possibly have to deal with that? What would you do? Help please
Hello Reddit, I’m a black female turning 21 in August. I have no car and still live with my parents. I have 0 experience with acting. I’ve only read a few film acting books and I haven’t went to college yet(I live in the middle of Arkansas, so barley any colleges have "performing arts" majors and it’s hard to find acting classes and programs, but even if I did, I don’t have a car to get to and from them). If you were me, what would be your first step? And ANY ADVICE HELPS! (And again, I live in the smallest town in the middle of my state, which makes me want to move to California or New York, to get more of a better chance). (Also: I’ve wanted to act since I was 14, I took a drama class in 8th grade and we acted out scenarios in front of the class and it was fun, although I highly doubt my folks would want me pursuing an acting career, so I’d rather wait until I’m on my own). (And I do plan on getting a car this year so I know this would be my pre-first step, I’ve had my driver’s license for some time now, just not a vehicle).
Hello! Recently I was sent a contract by a management company in a major market, but they told me they also operate sort of like an agency. I was referred to them by a fellow actor, and they definitely aren't some hole-in-the-wall business--they have a pretty good rating on IMDB pro and don't seem to be easy to get repped by. They sent me an exclusive contract, and this would be my first time signing with reps exclusively, so I'm not sure how to tell if the contract is fair. Some things seem a little strange to me, like: 1. The contract would be exclusive commercial representation for three years, and it also excludes getting a commercial agent, since they consider themselves to be management and an agency. It auto-renews for another year unless you notify them a few months before the contract ends. 2. They take 20% for non-union work. I am scared to sign something if I don't know what I am getting into first Any suggestions? Is this standard? Thanks!
Any actors not from usa know of a service for actors in Europe, or just worldwide. I was about to buy a subscription for backstage bit they clearly only look for talent in the states
I’m 19, i’ve lived in Los Angeles my whole life and recently decided I want to start acting. For those here in LA, who are some reliable classes that are quality and not just some dude taking my money? edit: what are some things that you are able to work on as an actor on your own time without needing a person with you?
Ill be live tonight at https://www.twitch.tv/pantheonpyro talking with other voice actors on our networking discord, about what gear you need for Voice acting! Come check it out and Join the discord at https://discord.gg/Qm3KEjecuZ
Hey whats up fellow thespians? I'm a NYC actor relocating to Bali within a year or so. Would love to keep working - are there any Americans working in Australia that have insight or a second to chat ? ​ Much love
I know I know… I know that you have to have thick skin in this industry and I know sometimes things don’t work out… what I’m sick of is being let down. Directors, producers, etc please stop making promises of things. It hurts us because we get so excited and on fire, lit passions for a project that… sadly doesn’t happen. It’s happened to me so much that when I get offered something I’m not as passionate or excited about it because in the back of my mind I’m just like “ok yeah sure we’ll see if it happens”. Like I said I know some things don’t work out but it’s pretty messed up when you PROMISE someone it will. To put this into perspective—I’m pretty broke… right now I’m just dependent on booking things, I’m having a hard time doing so as most things require you to be fully vaccinated— I only had the first dose of Moderna and had a crazy bad reaction, dr advised me not to get second dose and even if they said it was ok I would refuse, sorry, not getting shingles and Bell’s palsy again. Anyways, I have kids to take care of and my fiancé is working full time at a factory. We are barely getting by. I was presented with two opportunities. The one was a film that I’d be lead in— the director/producer promised it would be big—- we’d film on an ARRI—- got stuff lined up with investors from Netflix, Hulu, tubi, etc interested and that it would be a decent budget. I was so excited and now… it’s been months and crickets. No communication. Second opportunity I had was with a YouTuber who has a substantial amount of followers. He liked my voice and invited me on to do voice work. Great thing is I could work from home and he stated he would pay me very well. I have my professional mic stuff all hooked up and been waiting for weeks to start— every time I ask about it he just says he’s waiting on scripts yet he’s daily uploading to his channel. So that had me quite confused. I was thinking of just starting my own thing but I don’t know how to edit stuff like that so honestly I don’t know. I’m just to the point where I’m losing passion and I don’t know where to go from here. Wondering if I should continue on or focus on other things— if I don’t start booking soon I’m going to have to get a job so I can help with the bill’s because things are getting crazy expensive. I am a patient person but I don’t have time to wait around. Like I said I know things don’t work out sometimes but… stop making promises if you don’t know for sure it’ll work out. It really does hurt our soul. Just the same reason I won’t do a lot of indie stuff anymore—- I’ve done so much indie film that I didn’t get paid for— never been finished. It was a great learning experience but if I am not getting paid and can’t get copies of footage for demo reel it’s a waste of my time. Sorry
I wasn't sure how to phrase this, or if it should just go into the stupid questions thread. I've been taking classes online, but they're once per week. Sometimes I have a month or so between classes. I feel like I'm not getting enough instruction/practice to really advance. I also feel a bit too green to actually act in something, plus I'm traveling right now. I was hoping someone could share strategies to really maximize a weekly class? I've reviewed the stickies on practicing from home, and have been working on those, but I'm not sure how to link that up with classes. Edit, Summary: - Go to more classes 1. Lesly Kahn is recommended 2. Become a key student in exchange for classes 3. Meet up with other students to rehearse or generally review things. - Online Learning 1. Youtube - Sam Stiglitz - Mikayla lysiak - John D'aquino - Actors Round Table - Actors on Actors 2. Podcasts - Wendy Alane wright's secrets of a Hollywood talent manager - In The Envelope - Action: the pursuit of acting excellence - Back To One - Audrey Helps Actors
I really dislike taking acting classes bc so many other actors are "type a" and just need to be center of attention or just extremely narcissistic. I can handle it on a set in terms of peoples egos when a lot more is riding on things (most people are just really tired) but classes are unbearable and I just wonder if other people see this too?
can i reach a good level of acting by practicing at home? i cant afford classes rn, and the theatre at uni is not currently working , so idk. i wanna practice and try to go audition and start with modeling for ads on tv or something. many actors start that way so i figured maybe i can try that out but i need to practice first because atp i just like the idea of acting and i dont have much experience at all. ive had some in the school theatre however i was ASS when i was a kid and now its different because back then i didnt understand theatre as an art but now i kinda do
I want to pursue being a successful actress like most who might be on here! What is some advice you would give to stay humble?
Is there any source where i can find videos without actor voices? Only with background noises, effects etc. Maybe packs where video has separate audio tracks included. Or maybe software to mute only voices. Any other advise to help practice dubbing would be highly appreciated! Thank You.
I'm having trouble deciding which book to read first: At The Actors Studio or The Lee Strasberg Notes. Does reading one make another redundant? Or should I be reading something else?
Hello I have a question! I'm a trans girl, is it possible to become an actress without attracting attention either negative or positive over the fact that I'm trans? Since little kid, I knew I wanted to follow the stage life way before I realise I am trans, and growing up this became more intense, but I always wanted to be judge and be seen for my talent, my skills, my expression and not my trans identity, and Im not interested in becoming known for playing trans role either, I mostly care about theatre and stage and not TV, and I'm a very private person with my life, could I make it there seeking privacy?
I’ve been taking this acting class for over a year and yesterday was my last class with them. And it didn’t really have a great ending. So we’ve been doing this Meisner exercise where we do the repetition and then work in a 30 second speech to the repetition, basically make the text flexible. I had one on the ready. So I do the exercise but throughout the exercise, the teacher said that my short speech didn’t feel honest. But I disagreed. Both times I worked the speech into the exercise, it felt genuine to me. I didn’t think I was doing it in a fixated way, but my teacher told me it felt rigid. I didn’t say anything to him because I try to be open to feedback but then he told me to use my voice to express my feelings and I was left genuinely confused and I think that got me in my head because then I did end up too focused on the text and I was left kinda let down. So I wanted to ask when do you disagree with your acting teacher. Because I really wanted to end on a better note especially since I’ve been in his class for so long. I don’t think he suddenly sees me as a bad actor all of a sudden but I just feel like I kinda disappointed him. TLDR: took a class for over a year and had an underwhelming and disappointing ending.
This is a fantastic book that helps explain habits and how to break bad ones by forming new ones. I'm only a few hours in and already I'm gonna buy the book version. A few things that could be used for acting. Setting goals are not as beneficial as creating a process or system that helps you achieve those goals. Setting goals means you are putting off celebrating the moment until you hit that goal. Example: **Goal: I will feel much better about my acting abilities once I land a role.** **Problem: If I don't land the role I will feel my abilities are lacking.** Falling in love with the system/process, i.e. learning lines, studying anything that improves your acting, being comfortable in your vulnerabilities can be a much more effective approach to the craft of acting than setting goals. Enjoying the system/process allows you to enjoy your efforts in the present moment and when you finally hit your goal you would have already been reaping the benefits of your hard work due to the "system" you've put in place. You can enjoy it right now, today/tomorrow without ever booking a role. Another thing I really love about this book is that James explains how we can't transform ourselves overnight. It takes small 1% efforts in any particular thing to see significant growth. For instance, if we improve 35 things in acting by 1%, we would have improved our abilities by 35%. It's then up to each individual to spot areas to improve. What I loved about Viola Davis' book "Finding Me" is that she had it hard as child. She was killing big ass rats with toy bats. She didn't have a quality education as a child. She barely had food to eat. The only thing she did have was her passion. That was the spark she needed. She improved from there and eventually the areas that were considered her weakest points, became her strengths. She trained and improved likely by 1% or more until the world couldn't help but notice her! Lastly, the ice cube analogy. I absolutely love this analogy. For instance, a lot of us right now are in the ice cube phase of our careers. The ice cube represents our career, actually more like what's inside the cube is what represents our hidden/unlocked potential. Our efforts and training and experience aims to melt the ice away.. So lets say when first starting out we were in the ice cube stage and in a cool temp room set to 27 degrees Fahrenheit (or -2 in Celsius). As we train and get experience we increase the temp a couple notches. Now it's 31F/-1C and there's been no change. We become frustrated. A lot of us quit at this phase but, if you heat it to one more degree the ice begins to melt. That one degree change caused a significant physical reaction. It was just one degree more. Now the ice is melting and will continue to melt. How many times have we attributed someone's success as an "over night success"? I bet if you "made it" you wouldn't claim that you were an overnight success. It took small incremental changes to see a transformative change. Ok I've rambled on too long. I wanted to share this because I found it useful and I'm sure y'all will too.
My buddy worked on Top Gun in San Diego back in 2019. I was fortunate be able to come hangout on set one day. It was the day they were shooting a really intense, emotional scene for him. I’ve never seen an actor able to switch “on” like him. When the cameras were off, he would joke with his cast mates and act completely normal, but I kid you not, as soon as the cameras started rolling he completely transformed. He was able to instantly tap into the scene and kill it every take. Never missed a beat, would give a slight variation with every take to give the director options, etc. It was insane to watch. I’ve been on a ton of movie sets and I’ve never seen anything like it. Has anyone else here worked with him in any capacity? I really wish he’d do an interview about his process because it’s truly inspiring to watch.
Hello! I am a university student who is looking for an acting class in the Vancouver area for the summer. I've been looking at VADA and VanArts, but I've seen some reviews where people weren't very happy with their experience. VAS doesn't have classes until September. I'm also looking at Railtown Actors Studio and Deb Powdowski, but I can't seem to find as many reviews about these schools. Taking an acting class has been on my bucket list for a while and it's just for fun, but I would still like some quality instruction! If anybody has any experience or recommendations, it would be greatly appreciated! :)
The classic chicken/egg case for new actors! Agents don’t want us without credits, but we can’t get those credits without an agent, so I’m curious if any of y’all who’ve accomplished this can share your experience. Even if it was just dumb luck, I’d love to hear your story!
Hey there, I am currently thinking about pursuing a career in acting and I am clueless. I have never acted in anything before and only started thinking about it here recently, but the thought of it has become something that I cannot get over no matter what, unless I were to pursue this path. Where can I start? What do I do? Some things that might help to see where I'm coming from: - I do not live anywhere near big acting cities. I'm from and still live in rural Alabama. The local community college (that I am a current student of) has a theatre department that is great for the area and does productions, but I am currently not a part of this program, but have considered it. - I am 19 and I guess I could say I have a few skills, if singing and a natural thick southern accent count. - I have never thought about acting as a career until recently, but now that I've thought about it, it's like a burning desire. What my end goal would be: - This may sound extremely cliched and very stupid, but if I we're to pursue this I would not stop until I got this point, and even then I'd still keep going. I want to be the next Hollywood megastar. I know this doesn't come overnight, and that building up to this point can take years, or not. With this end goal in mind, what school would be best?: - Would it be best to go to university and get a good theatre background? Or go to an acting training studio in LA? From my research, it seems there are heavy pros and cons to both routes. But, since I want to focus specifically on Film, which would be best? I want to train to be the best actor I can be. Where can I find auditions?: -Ive looked through Backstage and Actors Access, but can't seem to find anything. Am I just not looking good enough? Please comment any thoughts you have that might help me. I'm trying to find the starting place. Your help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
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.
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.
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.