It's come up recently at the audition taping service I own that many actors don't do the work necessary to become a professional actor and/or sustain a career. Specifically, we see actors come in not knowing simple scriptwriting conventions, mispronouncing words (that can be easily looked up), and treating the script like a suggestion.
I think many actors underestimate what it truly takes to commit to this art form. Taking acting classes isn't enough. Because the on-camera medium is so collaborative, you MUST learn a little (or a lot) about the other professions that are overlapping; lighting, cinematography, sound, writing, editing, etc.
3 people like this
Important post, Matthew. Especially for the lurkers around here. I've seen the same throughout my career with actors and screenwriters. They don't fully understand the commitment it takes to not only break in, but stay in.
Love to hear from others on this subject. This is one I truly believe could be an eye opener for many.
4 people like this
Hi Matthew, thank you for bringing this topic to light!
The old adage that it takes 10,000 hours to become an expert at something, more than rings true here. Being an actor is only half the hustle. More actors must acquire the habit to be inquisitive about the filmmaking process, and the diligence to put the time in to learn how it's being done.
Kay wrote a really great blog about "How to Make Friends In the Film Industry" >> https://www.stage32.com/blog/How-to-Make-Friends-in-the-Film-Industry-Th... >> for anyone who's reading, this is helpful to and start those conversations with the other professions. Become friends & share personal stories!
3 people like this
Note to beginners: This stuff ain't easy.
2 people like this
SO true!! As a former documentary filmmaker and now co-producer of fiction films, I know how important it is for an actor to be professional, mindful, and patient with all other crew members and their skills. Currently, I have an actor on my set who can be 2 hrs late due to focus on his life problems & lack of understanding of other professions. Honestly, not only it is unhappy & unsustainable for his professional life as an actor but not inviting for other production members to cast him in the future. So, yes, "MUST learn a little (or a lot) about the other professions that are overlapping"