We have found 19,243 posts across 4 actor forums:
Workshop or Class for Working Actors NYC by merlingates • last post Jul 13th
Any recommendations? I’m looking for a place to sharpen skills in between projects. No crazy “my method is the only method” places or cult like workshops. Just honest acting work with professionals who’ve already got experience and skill.
Why it's important that actors stand with the Writers Guild of America's battle with the "Big 4" and the "Package" by StruggleSeshFan • last post Jul 12th
It is no secret that consolidation from Netflix, Disney, YouTube, CBS-Viacom, and AT&T-HBO-Turner-CW are driving down our day rates. Hell, I have a friend who was on every episode of a Netflix show for 3 seasons straight and was never upgraded from a "Guest Star" credit. And before you ask: No, he's not at some Ma and Pa agency out of some guy's apartment in Studio City. He was represented at one of the "Big 4" agencies and cast onto the show as part of a package. What's a package, you ask? Well, you see, four predatory agencies control 87 percent of Hollywood's talent deals: Creative Artists Agency, United Talent Agency, William Morris Endeavor, and ICM Partners. This is a clear monopoly/oligopoly that is only now, for the first time in many years, being challenged in court by the Writers Guild of America. What keeps "The Big 4" in power is the ability to "package" talent when making deals with buyers. By collecting as many actors, writers, directors, and producers as possible, then pitting them against each other for the cheapest deals, these agencies do far more to serve studios and networks then they do their own clients. They get paid far, far more from "packaging fees" to bundle talent at discounts than they do actually representing their clients. The WGA maintains that this is illegal. SAG-AFTRA, a union I'm frequently embarrassed to be a part of due to corruption and incompetence, has been all but silent. Compounded onto this problem is that the agencies have started creating production hubs and planning IPOs. This is extra, extra illegal, and the WGA is determined to prove it. Which is just another reason why the silence of the actor's union has been so disappointing. Imagine, if you would, having your entire career determined by a mixture of competing with your other agent's clients and pressure from the stock market. This is a dark future that we must prevent. We've gotta stick with the writers if we want the middle and working class of the industry to not just thrive, but to also prevent the concentration of power that allowed those like Harvey Weinstein to rape and molest talent with impunity. I remember I was at an audition for some indie movie, sitting in the waiting room, when 10 women all dressed like Michelle Pfeiffer from Scarface all rolled in at once. As I watched them sign in, I saw that a huge chunk of them were signed with major agencies, not small ones. I was awestruck. "What is this?" I asked the receptionist. "A rich guy put a casting call out to the major agencies for two dates to a costume party. Weird, I know. Please don't judge us." I judged them, alright.
Where are the Actors active on Youtube? by sandtrumpsdirt • last post Jul 12th
I've been looking for actors with active youtube channels, preferably in LA (or voice actors outside LA) and have had some trouble finding many. I make vfx films for youtube and need to find collaborators I mesh with who are excited to cross promote between our channels. Please link if you know anyone like this.
The money vs. the ethics RE: working with creeps. by StruggleSeshFan • last post Jul 12th
10 years ago I booked my first major movie gig with Warner Brothers through an open call over the internet. I'd rather set myself on fire than work for them again. I know I have a home field advantage, having been born and raised in Los Angeles, and that this privileges me to take moral stands that many cannot simply out of financial necessity. But nevertheless, I'd like to share: Todd Phillips is a very bad man. Both he and his team are openly abusive, manipulative, sleazy, and predatory both on and off set. This is an open secret that many have seen firsthand. Some really talented and wonderful people have even left Hollywood behind because of the "Green Hat/Joint Effort" team's behavior towards them. I wouldn't be surprised if some MeToo shit hits before the new JOKER movie drops. He'd deserve it more than most. I always tell my actor and crew friends to stay away from Todd's/Joint Effort's sets, even if the money's good. Because I was 20 and playing a horny 17 year old, I was forbidden from attending sexual harassment training and encouraged to be as shitty as possible to the actresses and extras "for the sake of the character." As I've gotten older and matured and grown as a human being, I've developed a lot of guilt and shame, even though I never did anything besides occasionally act like a bit of an asshole, often at the encouragement of producers. One co-producer on the film I worked on, Joel Silver, once told me to "take an extra behind a trailer and bend her over," which disturbed me. One of Green Hat's sleaziest former execs has also been involved with kids-in-prison non-profits for years. In retrospect, this makes me kinda shudder. Warner Bros, like the other mega studios, are very good at covering up for the worst behavior of their bigshots, and in fact just actually removed their CEO for trading sex for gigs after the actress involved went public. I've seen Todd's team openly use intimidation tactics and threats, even going as far as to hiring private detectives to get what they want. Whether it's coercing an actress into going topless for a scene or shutting up talent/crew members who dare speak out, they cover it all up and the whistleblowers get punished. The eras of "fixers" like Eddie Mannix and Anthony Pellicano have never truly ended in Hollywood. This is a business comprised almost entirely of two personality types: Empaths and the sociopaths who prey on them. I'm not interested in creating a media shitstorm or causing any unnecessary or pointless drama with this post. I just think that self-advocacy is one of the most important traits for an actor to have, and it's something I wish I could have had when I was younger and far more naive. We have to protect ourselves from those who would hurt us for profit and pleasure. Take care of yourselves.
International Actors: Williamstown Theatre Festival by Lour-55 • last post Jul 12th
Hello! ​ I am an 18 year old International actress who is going to attend Williams College in the fall. I heard great things about the Williamstown theatre festival and was wondering if being an apprentice at the Williamstown theatre festival holds any weight on my resume when auditioning for tv and film in LA since many had told me that the festival is only valuable if your involved in theatre and if you go on to the non-equity program which may lead to an agent, however, only 5% of the apprentices get to go to that program. Any thoughts? Am trying to maximize my chances at getting recognition and an agent knowing that I am an international therefore, I have less time to establish a professional acting career than someone who doesn't need a work visa. Thanks
Where can I audition for an A24 film? by mason_magnum • last post Jul 12th
anyone know? I feel like a lot of the actors aren't necessarily full of experience or are represented before taking part in filming. anyone know how I could find auditions?
I booked it! by flowuriy • last post Jul 12th
Fellow reddit users... I’ve been a long time lurker of this sub and just wanted to pop in to say that... I booked my very first role on a major show! The only other time I was on a professional set was months ago for a commercial so I can’t believe this. I’m currently sitting in my trailer waiting to go into hair and makeup as I’m typing this. I’m still in shock. I’m excited. I’m nervous as HELL. But most of all, I’m so thankful for this opportunity. I started this journey only 2 years ago and never in a million years did I think I would be here. Just wanted to share the good news with my fellow actors and to thank you guys for this sub! :) PS: any tips would be GREATLY appreciated :)
"Joker" is made by fuckin' creeps by StruggleSeshFan • last post Jul 12th
10 years ago I booked my first major movie gig with Warner Brothers through an open call over the internet. I'd rather set myself on fire than work for them again. Todd Phillips is a very bad man. Both he and his team are openly abusive, manipulative, sleazy, and predatory both on and off set. This is an open secret. Many have seen it firsthand. Some really talented and wonderful people have even left Hollywood behind because of the "Green Hat/Joint Effort" team's behavior towards them. I wouldn't be surprised if some MeToo shit hits before the movie drops. He'd deserve it more than most. I always tell my actor and crew friends to stay away from Todd's sets, even if the money's good. His co-producer on the film I worked on, Joel Silver, once encouraged me to "take an extra behind a trailer and bend her over." Because I was 20 and playing a horny character, I was discouraged from sexual harassment training and encouraged to be openly One of his sleaziest former execs has been involved with kids-in-prison non-profits for years. In retrospect, this makes me kinda shudder. Warner Bros, like the other mega studios, are very good at covering up for the worst behavior of their bigshots, and in fact just actually removed their CEO for trading sex for gigs. I've seen Todd's team openly use intimidation tactics and threats, even going as far as to hiring private detectives to get what they want. Whether it's coercing an actress into going topless for a scene or shutting up talent/crew members who dare speak out, they cover it all up and the whistleblowers get punished. The eras of "fixers" like Eddie Mannix and Anthony Pellicano have never truly ended in Hollywood. This is a business comprised almost solely of empaths and the sociopaths who prey on them. I'm not interested in creating a shitstorm. I just want you guys to protect yourselves from those who would hurt you for profit and pleasure.
Do all actors start off in theater? by Savetheworldsoceans • last post Jul 12th
I’m very interested in acting but I’ve never liked the idea of performing live on stage. I know it’s great experience and all but it’s just not my forte. Is this a deal breaker?
Let’s talk TEETH!!! by harrywendorff • last post Jul 12th
As I assume a large amount of actors are, I’ve always been concerned that my smile is hurting me more than helping me as an actor. I was wondering what everyone’s experience with getting cosmetic work done to your teeth has been like. What work have you gotten? How much has it cost? How much does it help?
Around 3/4th of my hair is colored (pink/purple) should I still go for headshots or wait for the roots to grow and cut off the colored part? by hobolian • last post Jul 12th
Hey everyone! So as the title says I’ve been holding back from getting headshots because I feel like headshots should feature you in your most natural state (please correct me if it’s wrong to think this) and I fear it may prevent me from being casted in anything because it may limit what parts I can play. I wanted to know what fellow actors (or anyone else here really) thought about this? Or maybe it makes e stand out and I should just go for it?
Getting started with Auditions in LA? by mmoreofmerce • last post Jul 11th
Just moved to LA and I mostly work in film production but between that hustle and paying for acting classes—my program is well known but doesn’t do showcases—how do I find out and get cleared for auditions as a non union actress? Also can I begin going on auditions without a headshot? Basically I want to begin the process as I continue to save for headshots.
OPEN CASTING CALL TORONTO - Acting opportunities for independent student film by shneemyshneeze • last post Jul 11th
Title: “You Have Been Here Before” Genre: Art, Horror Director: Davie Parth Location: Toronto ​ **Info** “You Have Been Here Before” is an Art Horror short film that will begin filming in mid August 2019. The film has no dialogue, and the narrative moves through character reaction. Thus, this film will have no script, and actors will use character background information and scene breakdowns in order to perform. Low pay, food included on set. The auditioning process has two parts. The first part is a submission of headshots/reels. A full plot synopsis will be given to those who are called for the second round of auditions (in person), which will begin on July 25th. Final casting decisions are made through actor’s ability to convey emotions in their reactions to different situations within the story. Small stipend included for cast members. **Must be a Toronto based actor/actress**. Please send headshots/reels to [stardogparth@gmail.com](mailto:stardogparth@gmail.com) or stardoggolini@gmail.com by July 23rd, 2019. Story: Resurrected from death and waking up in a bath tub, a man gets reintroduced to the evil cult that he was a part of in his past life. **Roles****:** **WOMAN 1:** One of the members of the cult, and the supposed true pair of Man 1. A mysterious, yet alluring femme fatale that the protagonist cannot help but trust in his journey to find out more about his past life. Age 18-23, blonde, communicates well with her eyes. **WOMAN 2:** Another member of the cult, and the person for whom Man 1 and Woman 1 are searching. Age 18-23, any ethnicity/hair color.
Acting classes - how do I find the right fit? Is there something wrong with me if I don’t feel good when I walk away from a class? by anon-oh-1 • last post Jul 11th
I am in my early 20’s and have decided to give this acting thing a shot. I have always loved acting and have wanted to pursue it for a very long time. I was told that the best place to start was acting class. So after some extensive googling, I found a school in my area that provided a course for beginners. It promised to teach everything from audition technique to accents. To cut a long story short, I decided that this course wasn’t for me. It was due to many things, but I felt that after every class, I’d walk away feeling worse about my abilities than before. I can’t tell if this is a result of my self-doubt or if it was because of the classes themselves. Perhaps it is a mix of both. Regardless, I don’t think this school is the right fit for me. I guess my question is... how do you know if a teacher / school / class is right for you? What are your experiences with acting classes? How can you tell if a school is just there to make money and fill you with false promises... or is there to genuinely help you progress an an actor? Going forward, how should I approach learning the craft? Thank you in advance!
32 year old male still getting called for late teen early 20’s roles. How long can I keep this up. by Acts_Of_Random • last post Jul 11th
So to start off, I’m really kicking myself in the butt for not starting this earlier on in life. I wanted to be a actor sense I was a kid. Even the future profession I chose for my 8th grade yearbook. I got into acting at the age of 27. after a breakup. I don’t know what it did to me, but after a binge watch of vampire dairies in Netflix, it relit a flame in me to want to peruse acting for real. Got my feet wet in acting classes but really didn’t go to auditions etc until the next year at age 28. To not drag this on too long I started going out to auditions and realized quickly no one was calling me in. So I asked my teacher and he told me because of the way I looked, I should go for teenager to early 20’s. I thought he was crazy, but I did it anyway and boom!! I started getting auditions. I did student films etc, and low budget shorts to build my resume, and at the age of 29 I booked my 1st tv role for the ID channel playing a 17 year old high school. Recently I booked a Netflix co-star gig playing a 16 year old witness to a crime. And to remind you I’m 32. I kid you not, I thought these people were nuts. But I’m not gonna ask questions or tell them my age. I’ve taken 2 breaks since starting back in 2014 due to financial reasons. But thanks to technology and app based jobs I’ve been able to pursue acting and not have a regular JOB for about a year. I’m now SAG-E, and at this point I’m finally gonna start seeking representation. My question at what point or how long can I go doing roles for early 20’s being I’m already 32 years old. I’d like to play older, but know I’ll never get used or called in for a 30 year old character. If it helps to know, I am african American. My voice isn’t super deep, and my face haven’t really changed much over the years. At some point should I just stop submitting for younger roles, or keep doing it until I hit a plateau? I feel it would be weird being 36 playing a varsity wearing college freshman. Would love you guys input on this as I don’t know what to do. Thanks. TLDR: I’m 32 playing much younger roles. How long will this last, and at what point should I go for older roles.
ACTING AGENTS by _itsnyla • last post Jul 11th
Hi, I’m looking for an acting agent, I want to become an actress, but I’ll need an agent,if you know an agent or anything, please let me know, it’d be a dream come true.
Headshot-Age Range-Character Type Post - Jul 11 by AutoModerator • last post Jul 11th
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.
My lack of self-confidence is holding me back from pursuing an acting career. Any advice for dealing with your inner critic? by anon-oh-1 • last post Jul 11th
In classes, I always feel like I’m the worst in the room. When I watch others act, I feel like they’re so much better than me. Sometimes I feel like I’ll never be capable of acting on screen. I even watch myself and believe that I am not attractive enough to be an actor. Despite all of this, I still love to act and want to pursue it. I would hate for my lack of self-confidence to be the only reason I don’t give it my best shot. Has anyone ever experienced this? If so, how did you get over the feeling of not being good enough?
Essays for BFA and Conservatory applications. by ThumbsAreGreen • last post Jul 11th
" An essay 250-500 words describing your goals in the field of acting and why you wish to study at the Institute." A conservatory I am looking into has this on their application and listed as "optional" I plan on doing one, but just wanted to get some advice from others who have experience doing so. I really don't want to just sit and talk about myself and how much I love acting and how fulfilling it can be, etc, etc, blah blah blah. Everybody says that. As it is listed as optional, I was thinking about also omitting one from my application as I'm not the type of person who really views acting as something "I was born to do" or it's "my destiny" and stuff like that, to me, all of that is super cheesy and eye roll material, and take that gamble by hoping it's a question we could talk about during the in-person interview. I also see this essay having the ability to be used as a powerful business statement for myself. Anybody have any unique approaches they have used? Maybe use that essay to talk about a specific production I was a part of or anything really. Just trying to stay away from cliche, stereotypical actor responses to this type of request.
Need to portray a rich jerk and I am in need of some advice. by lestrich • last post Jul 11th
Don’t know if these kinds of posts are allowed around here. If not, please tell me, so I can delete it. Sorry if my englisch is not the best, I am from Germany. During summer, I’m part of a summer camp as an supervisor. During the vacation, we’re doing all kind of games and shows, and on one evening we’re doing an „Improtheater“. (I don’t know if that’s a thing in America/UK/wherever, but in Germany it’s kinda common. You are assigned a role and get thrown in any situation and have to act accordingly.) So my role will be that of a rich young „jerk“. (You know the Type: Rich dad, has always gotten his will, thinks others are inferior, is obnoxious and so on). And here comes my problem. While I’m a fairly good actor, I need some advice as how to best portray that role: Posture, way of speech, overall character, attire etc. It can be very over the top, I don’t care to make myself ridiculous as long as the children are having fun! Thanks in advance!