Hey - I'm Jason, and I'm an Actor, Filmmaker and Screenwriter.
I could tell you all about who I am, where I'm from, and what degrees I have, but I think it's way more fun to jump right into the meat an potatoes - don't you think?
So back in 2017, I was scrolling on Facebook and this screenwriting competition called Jameson First Shot popped up. I'd never heard of it before, but if you won, you'd get Dominic West to star in your film. So I thought "that's wicked cool, I'll submit my script.
Long story very, very short, I won, and had to fly out to L.A with absolutely NO MONEY to make my short film "A Funny Thing Happened to Kelly and Ted." Which, yes, Stars Dominic West and can be found and watched on Youtube. I even got a small cameo v.o role in my own film!
Now I'm sure you're asking yourself "what was so crazy and scary about all that - that just sounds awesome!!!"
Well it was, but It was also crazy and scary for me because I come from a small town of 100 people, I was so overwhelmed by the experience, that I've found it almost impossible to do anything since because I'm scared of trying to live up to that expectation again. I curled back up in my small town mindset, and worked as a Office P.A and Film Accountant for three years.
To me, it's crazy and fascinating how our minds work. How we can have huge success and push forward, or relapse back to a previous version of ourselves to "keep us safe"
Since the pandemic, I've gotten the chance to do a lot of inner reflection and self-development. I've been growing and changing in ways I could never have predicted.
Now, I want to connect with other filmmakers to talk about all of this stuff. To talk about the Journey. That's why I've started "The Road to Hollywood Podcast" - to give other creatives a place to share their experiences so far, and talk about how to break through to new levels of success.
If you're interested in being a heat on the Podcast (or just connecting with me in general) please smash that little + button and let's make some great stuff together!
As always, Break Legs and Steal Hearts;
Jason
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Jason Manella - Man you've had one hell of a ride man. Wow. Dominic West in your first short film. That's incredible!
I've hit the plus button. :-) Would be great to connect and maybe contribute to your podcast. I live in Cape Town, South Africa so my perspective might be something you'd find very interesting. Look forward to hearing from you.
Awesome Sauce - looking forward to connecting with you!!!
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That's awesome, Jason. I recall the Jameson competition had some fun prompts. Kudos on your success and podcast.
Thanks Laurie!
Thanks Greg! It's always great to get feedback on my writing, even if it is just an intro post ;-)
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I would like to invite you to the next Forum One open discussion for indie producers and streamers - tomorrow Feb 22, online or by phone at 4pm Pacific. Go to https://ondemand.global/forum-01
Thanks for the Invite Shadow!
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Love your intro! Looking forward to your podcast.
Thanks Vijay! I'll send you the link!
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Cool! You should definitely consider joining the Writer's Room! Also, if you write a blog post here, they (Stage32) will help you gain readership. Consider working your connections wtih stage32 via other social media (instagram and twitter) to see what I mean. Cheers! Can't wait to see you around the various lounges and maybe in some webinars!
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Great story! Jason Manella =)
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Jason, your story is crazy, scary and some kind of wonderfull too! Congratulations!
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Wow what an amazing opportunity! Great that you were able to find some positivity during the pandemic. Best of luck to you!
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I love stories like this! Crazy, but keeping it real. Congrats!
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Love that perspective and TOTALLY GET the scariness of the experience. I'm 36 and have been a Soldier, a Sensei, and a Senior Consultant before turning my eyes on this space. It was actually a contest win that gave me the opportunity and belief in myself (moreso) to move into focusing on this craft full-time. Hope to link up, Jason. You seem very cool!
Awesome story and I'll be sure to put some time aside to listen to the podcast.