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We have found 19,412 posts across 4 actor forums:

Voice acting by Banafsheh Esmailzadeh  •  last post Oct 30th

Hi everyone~ this is just a random question more than anything but is it very hard to get into voice acting? What do you absolutely need to do first, for instance?

How Directors can best work with actors. Let's ask the actors. by Mark W. Travis  •  last post Oct 29th

As a director (and directing coach) I am really interested in hearing from actors. We get a lot of advice from directors on how to work with actors which is of course very interesting but many times not that useful. How about we open the conversation and let the actors tell us what works for them, what doesn't work, when they want direction, when they want to be left alone. And if actors are dealing with fears (big topic) what are the biggest fears. We, as directors, are not mind readers. And I know that many actors are reluctant to share their own fears or insecurities, especially with a director or producer. Let's start a dialogue here that we can all learn from.

WHAT Makes Actors GREAT Actors? Part 1 by S. Joe Downing  •  last post Oct 29th

WHAT Makes Actors GREAT Actors? Part 1


https://youtu.be/_iSiOa02aQo

I interviewed 5 people, to gain insight on what makes a Great Actor in their craft. 

Writer- ZNation, Black Summer - Daniel Schaefer 
Production Assistant, Director, Writer - Jessica To
Director, Writer - Tim Earnheart
Director, Writer - Seth Christian
Talent Agent - Bob Tomazic







Rediscovering the Art of Acting Through Online Resources and Self-Study by Glenn Axelrod  •  last post Oct 29th

I've been diving into a lot of YouTube courses and online resources lately, and I'm learning so much that my previous acting classes didn’t cover. It’s becoming clear to me that truly embodying a character goes beyond just memorizing lines. You have to understand the character, bring them to life, know the backstory, and really dig into script analysis. It’s about grasping the underlying purpose of the script, understanding your role, and delivering it in a way that aligns with the writer's vision. Good acting requires knowing the emotions, the intentions, and so many other nuances that I feel weren’t fully explored in my in-person classes.


I’ve gained more from collaboration groups and just watching scenes from movies or soap operas, like The Young and the Restless. Watching a simple scene, practicing the performance, and recording myself has been eye-opening. It’s fascinating to analyze, rework, and refine a scene on my own. People-watching has also been a big part of my learning journey.

Honestly, I wish these foundational elements had been emphasized more in my earlier classes. Thank goodness for YouTube, collaboration venues, and all the resources out there—from platforms like Stage 32 and Backstage to simply connecting with other actors and casting directors. This journey has motivated me to keep improving, to become the best actor I can be, one step at a time. Just wanted to share that for this Tuesday!

Here Are 5 Powerful Reasons For Declining Acting Jobs by Aaron Marcus  •  last post Oct 29th

Here Are 5 Powerful Reasons For Declining Acting Jobs

https://youtu.be/4lcwsWffq5U

Out of nearly 1,300 bookings, I have turned down less than 10 auditions/jobs. It is hard for me to turn down work. 

However, it is essential that we say no to offers in certain circumstances. Watch the video - https://youtu.be/4lcwsWffq5U. and learn 5 reasons to decline a project.

If you ever turned something down, share it with us so we can learn from you.

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Money, a script - now what? by Richard Wilkinson  •  last post Oct 26th

Other than writing, I have zero experience in getting a film made.  I have private funding for a small film but need suggestions on the right person for taking it the rest of the way.  What skillset/role should I be looking for to take the cash/the script - and handle all production elements to get it made?

Have a great weekend! by Andrew Pierson  •  last post Oct 26th

When I like your post I have viewed your profile! https://pro.imdb.com/name/nm16222350?ref_=m_acc_yourpage

Self Tape Wardrobe Tips for Character Types by Tammy Hunt  •  last post Oct 24th


Mom and Dad 
Having a parental look will go a long way for commercial auditions and day players. Having a solid cardigan or polo you can throw on to look approachable and relatable can suggest the role. You want to look a little conservative.

Flirty 
If it’s within your range, having a flirty or seductive look might be something to consider for your self tape. Remember, you still want to look professional. Hair and makeup can go a long way too.

Rugged/Gritty 
Get yourself that grungy gray tank top or well-worn tee. Having an appropriate jacket (army green, brown or other darker earth tone) might also be useful.

Blue and White Collar Professional 
The white-collar look is an easy one to pull off for your self tape. Put it together with a blazer or suit. This can suggest any white-collar professional’s job from a lawyer to an accountant, detective, Real Estate agent, and others.
Blue-collar work is also a simple look to pull off. A nice denim top with sleeves you can roll up can easily transform you into a farm hand, diner waitress, etc.

Medical Professional 
Medical procedurals are always great to tape for! If you can get yourself some scrubs, you’re all set. If you don’t have scrubs, a solid color v-neck shirt can suggest a nurse or technician. A lab coat might be good to have on hand. You can sometimes find these at uniform stores.

#selftape #audition #actor 

Voice123 by Elle Travis  •  last post Oct 23rd

Starting back up and the algorithm has me in the pit of the system. I'll trade you a favorite for a favorite, and if you are a content creator please give me a like. Tips & tricks are also welcome. Thank you. https://voice123.com/voice-actor/elletravis?vref=FAP63US&utm_medium=Share&utm_campaign=Profile&utm_source=Direct

Top 5 Things Casting Directors Look for in Self-Tapes by Tammy Hunt  •  last post Oct 22nd



1. Performance. When you’re self-submitting, casting folks have high expectations. Even though you may have just received the copy, we assume that you’ve had time to work on the material and can bring your A-game.

2. Personality. Since casting is asking for your self-submission in lieu of an in-person audition, we miss out on getting the chance to meet you. If possible, we’d like to get to know you a little through your self-tape. One way to do this is to use your slate as a chance to show some of your personality as well as your professionalism.

3. Technical Quality. Ultimately, we need to see and hear you. If we can’t, this could immediately take you out of the mix. It may sound obvious, but you’d be surprised how many times talent will submit clips that are lacking in one of those departments. And if they are, even if we love their performance, we won’t be able to send them through to the client to consider due to poor recording quality. Your best bet is to solve all of these technical issues ahead of time. Find a space in your home that you can designate as your self-tape spot. Set up a camera, lights, background, etc. and have it ready to go.

4. Following Instructions. Make sure you read and follow the format and size specs for the clip. Also adhere to any slate, wardrobe, and direction that is given in the breakdown. Casting directors share these helpful instructions, which are usually passed along from the client, because they’re expecting to see them in the recordings.

5. Fitting the Role. Make sure you’re appropriate for the role before going through the trouble of self-submitting. If you’ve specifically been asked to self-tape then by all means send something over, but if it’s a general call, save yourself the time and effort if you don’t fit the breakdown. Time is limited and valuable for everyone, so focus your efforts on submitting for roles best suited for you!

- Melanie Forchetti, Casting Director for Netflix, Amazon, CNN, Oxygen, among others.

#casting #selftape #audition #actor

Omari Hardwick is fireee !!!! dropping some inspo (: by Chase Cysco  •  last post Oct 22nd

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BRoT9KWhr-I

What Actors Need To Know Before Signing Agency Contracts by Aaron Marcus  •  last post Oct 22nd

What Actors Need To Know Before Signing Agency Contracts

https://youtu.be/VOfMX4vq68Q

Are you considering signing an agency contract now or in the future? It’s crucial to understand specific details that can make or break your acting career. Many actors overlook critical elements in agency contracts, which can lead to costly mistakes. Don’t be one of them!

Watch the video and learn what actors absolutely need to look for to make sure they aren't hurting their career.

Have you signed an agency contract? If so, share your experience on the channel so we can learn from you.

Greetings Actors by Philip David Lee  •  last post Oct 21st

Hello all of you actors that are out there doing your thing. My name is Philip David Lee and I'm a screenwriter/Director in Maine. I'm wondering if some of you need material for your reels that will expand a producer's knowledge of your range and talents. I have a 10 page short called SUFFERING about paranoia and suicide that I am offering to an actor that can assemble an available crew that wants some material to post on Youtube, make for a festival, help use as a learning opportunity for crew or use parts for a reel. It centers around a cast of two with some extras needed for the final scene. I am not seeking compensation for the screenplay and I think it's a good vehicle for a short. Please contact me on my page and we can discuss if it's right for you. Thank you for your time.

Harvey Dent Monologue – Two Versions for Feedback by Glenn Axelrod  •  last post Oct 20th

Hi everyone, I wanted to share my latest take on the Harvey Dent monologue from The Dark Knight (2008). I’ve prepared two versions: one is a stock version with no background or effects, and the other includes a backdrop and music to enhance the intensity of the scene. I’m experimenting with adding these elements to see how it impacts the performance.

This monologue comes from the scene where Harvey Dent addresses the crowd outside the courthouse, reflecting on his transformation from Gotham’s hero into something darker. He confronts the moral cost of becoming the very thing he fought against—this is a moment of deep internal conflict and realization for him.

For this performance, I did a full character study, including backstory, script analysis, and exploring the emotions that drive Harvey’s actions. To make it even more personal, I drew on my own experiences from the Army and my career in cybersecurity. Having served as a U.S. Army lieutenant colonel for 33 years and leading troops in challenging situations, I’ve experienced moments that required tough decisions and moral dilemmas, similar to what Harvey faces. Relating these real-life experiences to the character allowed me to tap into the intensity of his journey.

Compared to my last monologue, I feel I’ve improved in terms of pacing, emotional depth, and connecting to the character’s internal struggle. I’d really appreciate any constructive feedback on either version or both. Let me know what worked, what didn’t, and how I can continue to grow as an actor. Thanks for taking the time to watch, and I look forward to hearing your thoughts!

Best,   Glenn

Monologue Links below

https://youtu.be/Iii6HnreV_g

https://youtu.be/TnEDzmk4O90

Hi by Alind Salah  •  last post Oct 20th

hi

Directors On Working With Actors by Tammy Hunt  •  last post Oct 20th



“It’s incumbent upon a director, if you want to pull the best performance out of an actor, you have to really work to who they are and how they work, and not just expect them to hit a mark every time. You have to be very adaptable in the approach that you use with every different actor.”
– RUSSO BROTHERS Captain America: Civil War, Avengers: Infinity War

“Be honest. If you don’t know the answer to something, own up to it. By doing that, you’re displaying openness and a lack of fear. That’ll make actors feel very comfortable because the miracle of acting, to me, is the total lack of fear they have to have. When they sense that lack of fear in somebody else, they recognize it and appreciate it.”
– CURTIS HANSON L.A. Confidential, 8 Mile

“You have to shoot the shock. Because even the most talented actor will have trouble being shocked twice. Because the timing of that is so instinctive, to reproduce it is almost impossible. I’ve worked with fantastic actors, and that’s the hardest thing, surprise. So if there is a surprise, you’ve got to shoot the surprise, which means you can’t show them the whole script before you start.”
– KEN LOACH The Wind That Shakes the Barley, I, Daniel Blake

“I think directors should at least take acting lessons to see what’s going on. And I think all actors should direct to see what a director has to go through.”
– PENNY MARSHALL A League of Their Own, Riding in Cars with Boys

“Performers are so vulnerable. They’re frightened of humiliation, sure their work will be crap. I try to make an environment where it’s warm, where it’s OK to fail — a kind of home, I suppose.”
– JANE CAMPION Bright Star, Top of the Lake (TV)

“The director’s job is to know what emotional statement he wants a character to convey in his scene or his line, and to exercise taste and judgment in helping the actor give his best possible performance. By knowing the actor’s personality and gauging his strengths and weaknesses a director can help him to overcome specific problems and realize his potential.”
– STANLEY KUBRICK The Shining, Eyes Wide Shut

“I don’t work with actors that are fearful.”
- LEE DANIELS Precious, Empire



Delays at Lisbon by Geoff Hall  •  last post Oct 20th

Ah well, I’m here sat between gates awaiting news of my flight and gate, only to find that my flight has been delayed because of a storm over the UK. And personally speaking, I blame Ashley. 


Check out the attached photo! 

Thanks Ashley by Geoff Hall  •  last post Oct 20th

Haha! I’d like to thank Ashley for her interference with my flight home from Lisbon! ;-)


Storm Ashley! by Geoff Hall  •  last post Oct 20th

I’d like to thank Ashley for her interference in my journey home, from Lisbon! ;-)

Robber, Robber (2026) - Opening monologue for the Feature Film… by Austin Oneal Jones  •  last post Oct 19th

Feedback!?