I was looking at the IMDb, and I was amazed at how often producers and directors use the same people over and over again. And I don't mean just the stars, smaller parts too. It really is who you know. I don’t know anyone.

But on the other hand, if I get one role, and it’s with the right person, everything could change overnight.

Sometimes. This one movie I was in where I was a featured extra, uses alot of the same actors for his other films, especially bigger ones than the last one they got in his last film he made.

I agree that who you know is important, but I think that's half of the equation. It's delivering a brilliant performance constantly and having a friendly disposition that keeps you on their radar when new projects come along: good working relationships like Tim Burton & Johnny Depp and Quentin Tarantino & Uma Thurman are a couple of examples that come to mind.

Yeah, I guess you are right Bohemiana. I guess it's getting to know someone AND showing them you can deliver the goods.

But I think I can deliver given the chance.

quote:

Originally posted by bohemiana:
I agree that who you know is important, but I think that's half of the equation. It's delivering a brilliant performance constantly and having a friendly disposition that keeps you on their radar when new projects come along: good working relationships like Tim Burton & Johnny Depp and Quentin Tarantino & Uma Thurman are a couple of examples that come to mind.

Well said.

This business has always been about creating relationships. On every level.

People will always want to collaborate with those on the same page, acting-wise and working-wise. And why shouldn't they? Not only do they have history together, but have shown that together they have the proven ability to PRODUCE. The industry calls it "box office," I just call it COMMERCE. That's the simple reason why new or untried talent will always be on the outside, staring at all the goodies inside with their noses pressed up against the glass. That's just the nature of business, so try and not take it personally.

On the side of optimism, I actually believe in the adage: "Talent will out." If you truly possess the talent, someone with the the vision and the means will eventually give you the chance to prove yourself. All I can add to that is, BE READY. You just never know when that chance opportunity will come.

"Whatever works."

www.robertkim.com

it's really more who knows YOU - you are the product and you have to get that product to the buyers. and before you do that, you have to make sure your product is ready for the market.

if your product is ready for market - then get it out there - whether it's workshps and classes with Casting directors and agents, or general auditions, or indie films or actors access, or even doing shows (but with no pay shows, only if it is going to be worth the huge time commitment or it is an amazing part).

A headshot doesn't tell anyone much - seeing you LIVE and IN PERSON gives them a clearer picture of Who YOU are and what you can do

I like your positive attitude in your last sentence. You're absolutely right - careers change overnight all the time.

Your theory also applies to casting directors. Once you're in with the right ones, they will bring you in over and over on all their projects.

So get out there and start making some friends!

quote:

Originally posted by longtimeacting:
it's really more who knows YOU - you are the product and you have to get that product to the buyers. and before you do that, you have to make sure your product is ready for the market.

if your product is ready for market - then get it out there - whether it's workshps and classes with Casting directors and agents, or general auditions, or indie films or actors access, or even doing shows (but with no pay shows, only if it is going to be worth the huge time commitment or it is an amazing part).

A headshot doesn't tell anyone much - seeing you LIVE and IN PERSON gives them a clearer picture of Who YOU are and what you can do

That bit about being ready is ESPECIALLY important. If you just arrived off the Greyhound last month, do NOT run out and do workshops with casting directors etc because- GUESS WHAT- you are SOOOO not ready to be seen by them yet. Tread carefully, young Skywalker!!! Acting can be really freaking difficult, if you really want to SHINE that is. You get one shot to make a first impression, kids. Don't jack it up... TAKE some classes, DO some theatre, student films etc.....This really belongs in the New Actors section but I am guessing a few of them are reading this too.