Fellow actors! I am curious to know do you prefer acting in live theatre or film? As someone who was stage trained and then went to television and film, it was quite an interesting experience. I still prefer to perform live on stage. So, I'm asking, which do you prefer and why?
I've just been reading RB's "Coffee & Content" . It contains a video essay about the film Jaws and how much money it made at the box office. It got me thinking off on a bit of a tangent about what it would be like, as an actor, to play in a movie that is adapted from a book. I love doing research so when I have had a script based on a novel I have enjoyed reading the novel to develop my character (Big Little Lies and White Oleander. But you may feel differently?So my question to you is: if you’re acting in a film based on a book, do you like to read the book for extra insight into your character—or do you prefer to stick just to the script? How do you think it helps or complicates character development?Here is RB's blog link https://www.stage32.com/blog/coffee-content-pitch-with-precision-hook-your-audiences-4231
This 1 Word Boosted My Acting Career: But Could Destroy Yours https://youtu.be/Ywf9DnYNA-c Have you ever said yes or no to a project based on your skills? If so, please let us know how things worked out. Share it here and on the channel so we can learn from you.
Actors are constantly told to “be ready when opportunity knocks.” But the truth is, opportunities rarely give a polite knock. They show up unannounced, often in the form of a last-minute self-tape or a live audition that requires you to deliver a layered performance in just a few minutes. That’s why training is so important and not just to build skill, but to build confidence and consistency. I’m excited to share that registration is now open for the Take One: Virtual Acting Intensive, happening October 25–26, 2025. This two-day online workshop was designed for actors who want to strengthen their audition skills, expand their emotional range, and learn how to approach material like a professional. What makes this intensive unique is the line-up of coaches and industry professionals who will be guiding actors through the process. We’ll be joined by respected coaches including Max Decker, Tracy Taylor, Johnathan Zabawa, Linda Lord, and Swan Elliott. Each brings a wealth of experience, from network television to feature films, and they are committed to giving every participant constructive, actionable feedback. Over the course of the weekend, participants will work on: Audition Techniques – Breaking down sides quickly, making strong choices, and standing out in the first 15 seconds. Building a Character from the Ground Up – Tools to create depth and authenticity in every performance. Self-Taping Best Practices – Tips on lighting, framing, and delivery to make your tapes look polished and professional. Faith-Based & Independent Film Opportunities – Exploring a growing space in the industry and how to navigate it with integrity and skill. This intensive isn’t about vague advice or generic encouragement. It’s about hands-on learning. Actors will perform, receive notes, and immediately apply what they’ve learned. By the end of the weekend, you’ll walk away with practical tools you can use in your next audition — and in your career overall. Because it’s virtual, actors can join from anywhere. But space is limited to make sure everyone gets individualized attention.
One thing that my fellow workaholics and I have, is an inability to smell the roses when the time comes. It's easy to go from one project to the other and forget about the things you've done before, always looking to what's next. And while that does keep you busy and focused, it can also leave you empty and never really satisfied. This past weekend (yesterday/Saturday to be precise) I decided, at the request of my wife, to do just that. Take some time out and enjoy what I've done. So, date night it was! Lol! We went to the premier of my first Western just outside of Philly and had an absolute ball! In addition to showing the Western, they also showed some shorts of up and coming Pennsylvania filmmakers. I am happy to say that there was NOT ONE weak link in the bunch. If you are ever looking to film somewhere cheap and with friendly people and locations, don't overlook PA! While there, I didn't worry about the scripts I'm writing, the audition I missed (long story there), or the incredibly BAD day I was having otherwise. I just went out with my wife and enjoyed time with my filmmaking friends to watch a movie we had made together. The bonds that we have in our small Central PA filmmaking community were made even stronger last night. And it wouldn't have happened if I had let the rest of the day ruin what became a pretty cool night. Oh yeah, fellas! Listen to your wife! Ha!
I am looking for advice on how about getting roles to start my acting career. please leave my any suggestions or tips!
Hi all, thought I'd post some dialogue sequences from a few movies I love. Note: I'm just an actor, not an acting coach. The choices below are just my opinion :)Closer - Clive Owen and Julia Roberts' break-up scene. This one is paced so well and the back and forth gets very venomous at times. It's one of my all-time favourites.Manchester By the Sea - Michelle Williams and Casey Affleck reflecting on the aftermath of the housefire. This probably verges into Female Dramatic territory, but could be used for Men to show dramatic expression.Shooter - The Attorney General's monologue to Bobby Lee Swagger after Danny Glover's "Colonel", is cleared of mass murder during conflict.The Breakfast Club - Karl the Cleaner's reveal to the students. This piece is great for an adult telling a bunch of high school kids "where to shove it". He sees them for who they really are, scared, anxious or fake. Clerks - Dante tells girlfriend Veronica the difference between making a man and woman climax. This one is funny to me and written really well.
Leonardo DiCaprio, Regina Hall, Chase Infiniti, Teyana Taylor, and Sean Penn sit down with FD correspondent Erik Davis to talk about their upcoming movie 'One Battle After Another'. The cast shares how this movie breaks the PTA mold, what it was like working together on set, and so much more.(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SshHYnLCUwI)
Hey everyone” For all of acting friends and soon to be collaborators. I recently came across this gem online. There’s been a lot of chat about what actors do to keep themselves connected to their craft without burning out. This topic has stayed with me all week long. I want shout out to Ashley Renee Smith for sparking this conversation as it has inspired to keep deepening and nurturing my craft. In response to my comment about actors attending theatre. I want to share this global platform. Here you can watch all of London’s National Theatre right from your home or devices. I’ve dropped the link in the comments where you can register for free”
The Long Walk stars Mark Hamill, Cooper Hoffman, David Jonsson, Garrett Wareing, and Tut Nyuot sit down with ScreenRant to break down the themes of Stephen King's novel and how Francis Lawrence translated them to the screen in what promises to be a breathtaking cinematic experience.(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCyti6gDON4)
As an actress I wish I would have showed up to as many of my screenings as possible & a lot sooner, but it wasn’t until I became a writer that initially got the ball rolling for me and now as a Producer I find it a necessary expense and just know I need to always have a budget for the in person speaking events
So, I checked off a bucket list item I didn’t even know was on there: signing up as an actress for the Marbella International Film Festival. As a writer? That’s my jam—words on paper, stories I control, no risk of a camera catching my bedhead vibes. But as an actress? Never done it. Never stepped into someone else’s film, because, let’s be real, my scripts are my safe little bubble where I’m the director, the star, and the plot twist.With a mix of curiosity and a pinch of nerves, I filled out the application. Name, experience (basically none), a photo that hopefully didn’t scream “I just rolled out of bed.” And then… the next day, a “You’re in!” lands in my inbox. Me? Invited? I was bracing for a polite rejection like, “Try again next year as an extra in a coffee shop scene.” It feels like winning a lottery I accidentally entered.Now the real question: am I good enough to shine in a story that’s not mine? To breathe life into someone else’s words without holding the pen? It’s terrifying but exhilarating. In a world of AI scripts and green screens, there’s something raw and magical about human vulnerability on film. Here’s the kicker: what if your flaws are the exact spark a story needs?Writing is architecture; acting is an emotional rollercoaster. Sometimes you need that ride to see what really holds. Am I ready? Nope. Am I diving in? yeah. Because if you never step out of your bubble, you miss the best plot twist: rediscovering yourself in a stranger’s script.Who else is heading to Marbella, ready to jump into the deep end? Share your stories, fears, or audition-fail jokes—let’s lift each other up. Maybe we’ll all end up in a short film called Writers Turned Actors: A Comedy of Errors. Your tip might just save my scene.
I liked "All The President's Men" and how he was able to break down such a complex story and tell it in an almost anecdotal and easy to understand way.
Spike Lee and Denzel Washington sit down for a free-flowing conversation about their careers, their experience making Highest 2 Lowest, and of course, basketball. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CjH_otb9lAQ)
I just started reading Elizabeth Gilbert's "Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear". I sheepishly acknowledge i'm a bit late to the party as it was published in 2015. She talks about the courage it takes t to bring the creative treasure within you to the surface and that it is scary scary scary.Somehow her acknowledging this helped me to feel less scared. It also made me reflect on how I dance (and sometimes get trampled on) by my fear. One strategy is to feed the creative/dreamer part in me so that it's warmth and energy makes the fear feel smaller. This might be through reading about creativity, watching a film, writing or doing some character prep.Another way is to commit to creating before I consume. Only after i have created something (even if just 15 mins of writing) do I let myself anywhere near the Gram or any other content.Curious to hear your take on how you gather the courage to live a bold and creative life?
Hello my friends, my name is Zaid and I am 15 years old. I am from Jordan and I have a lot of experience in the field of acting. I aspire to become a great actor and to participate in great works. I am waiting impatiently for the opportunity, but unfortunately I have two problems. The first is my age and the second is that I cannot pay the travel costs. However, I will continue to struggle for my dream.Is there anyone who can help me in any way?
I am wondering what productions you all have been a part of and which has been your favorite role? This can be anything, professional or amateur, television, film or theater. Love to hear you responses!
My Most Tragic On-Set Movie Experience: And In Lifehttps://youtu.be/0RlVqIBOiMwHave you ever witnessed a horrible experience while working in the industry? If so, please share it here so we can learn from you.You can sign up to be on my special industry email list at: howtoactandmodel.com and also receive a free video: 6 Secrets to Mastering Home Auditions
I posted in the Filmmaker's lounge that as of Friday, I was able to get a worldwide distribution deal for a friend's movie "Transient", from when I was in Cannes this past May. It got me thinking. I haven't been at this game for very long (only five years) and there have been a lot of "firsts" for me since the opening bell. On the Acting side of things, the first time I got a SAG commercial was special. The first time I could barely make out that I was actually in "Guardians of the Galaxy 3" made me cry in the theatre. The first time my kids saw me on TV doing a crime recreation on the ID Network was pretty cool too. The first time I acted in a feature film that would go on to win Best Indie of the Year (according to Film Threat in 2023), was astounding! There are so many firsts. I'd love to hear about your favorite firsts and why they stick with you after so long.
I want to share a recent experience from set that turned into a serious health scare—and one I didn’t see coming.I'm currently working on a confidential Disney project (can’t say much yet!), and I’m booked for several days. As expected, my sleep and meal schedules shifted to match production's timeline. I eat when production eats, rest when they say rest. That’s just the nature of set life.But here’s the problem: I'm prediabetic and on medication that must be taken with food—and on a schedule. I’d adjusted my routine to match production’s without fully thinking through the implications. By the second day, I was suddenly very ill and had to leave early. I couldn’t figure out what went wrong. I was eating well, taking my meds... everything should’ve been fine.Turns out, the disruption to my schedule—especially meal timing—had thrown my system out of balance. I didn’t want to make a fuss, but production brought over the medics, and they found my blood pressure was through the roof.Here’s what I learned: when I return to set this week, I’m bringing my own food, despite the amazing catering. I’ll quietly eat and take my medication according to my usual routine, even if that means sneaking in bites between takes. My health has to come first.This is something we don’t talk about enough—how invisible health routines can clash with production life. If you're diabetic, prediabetic, or managing any condition that relies on strict timing, talk to your doctor about how to maintain your regimen on set. Don’t wait until your body tells you something’s wrong.Your health matters—even when the cameras are rolling.
Hey everyone, recently I've been binge-watching 'Better Call Saul,' and I'm currently on Season 5 episode 3. Kim Wexler just had a really great monologue I wanted to share. I've been considering putting it in a demo at some point. Here's the script, feel free to take a look, and I definitely recommend watching Better Call Saul and Breaking Bad if you ever have some down time!"Listen to me. You do not get to make up your own rules. Put on your big boy pants and face reality. No one is mistreating you here. We were trying to meet you halfway! Well, that's over. The $18,000? Guess what? It's off the table. Tomorrow, you come to your senses? You'll get 10. And y'know what happens after that? The sheriff comes out and kicks you outta here, and you get nothing. Why should you get to drag this out for 7 months while all of your neighbors, every single one of them, played by the rules? Do you think you're special? A contract means something. It's the law, and it's enforceable. Deal with it."
Hey everyone! I've been on quite the hot streak lately. Four bookings in the last month! Not too shabby! My question is what do you do to keep it going? Keep auditioning obviously but more than that. What do you do keep the good luck flowing? Any superstitions out there?
When you’re not working, how do you stay connected to your craft without burning out?
In this Actors on Actors with Kate Winslet and Zoe Saldana, Zoe says she manifested working with Jacques Audiard. He was on her list of directors she wanted to work with. I would love to work with Clint Eastwood. He is an actors' director having been an actor himself. What about you? Who is on your dream list of directors? https://youtu.be/BOoD8qNzjTQ?si=3T2vlVRENFCSEcgH
Should Actors Work With More Than 1 Agent? https://youtu.be/TqcZH6k_exo Do you have more than 1 agent? If so, let us know why and if it is working for you both here and on the channel so others can learn from your real-world examples.
Hi all! I wrote an article on what I’ve learned as an actor that works primarily on camera. I’m seeing many beginner actors make the same mistakes I did when I started.I’d always recommend an acting class, but if you can’t do one right now, I’d read these tips. https://www.patreon.com/posts/138475256?utm_campaign=postshare_creator
Hi everyone, I’m currently looking to connect with professionals in the film and television industry as I explore new job opportunities. With experience in scriptwriting, assistant directing, and script reading—as well as a background in filmmaking from the German University in Cairo—I’m passionate about storytelling and eager to bring my skills to new creative projects. I would love to connect with industry professionals, recruiters, and fellow creatives who might offer advice, guidance, or point me toward opportunities in production, development, or writing roles. If you have any leads, suggestions, or just want to connect and share experiences, I’d be grateful to hear from you! Thank you in advance, and I look forward to connecting with more amazing people here on Stage 32.
What happens when you step into a character who isn’t the center of the story, but the spark that sets it ablaze?Elle Fanning discusses her role in Joachim Trier’s Sentimental Value as Rachel, a character who becomes the unintentional catalyst for a fractured family’s emotional reckoning. Fanning shared that the role felt deeply personal and cathartic, allowing her to pour parts of her own experience into Rachel’s misplaced presence in the family drama.Acting alongside Stellan Skarsgård, Renate Reinsve, and Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas, the film explores a director’s attempt to mend his broken family, while reckoning with buried emotions and generational wounds. Reinsve’s performance as a sister still carrying childhood weight speaks to the quiet complexity actors must bring to roles steeped in unspoken trauma.This film is a powerful reminder that the most compelling characters are often the ones navigating silence, grief, and miscommunication, not with big speeches, but through subtle internal shifts.Watch the video here: https://deadline.com/video/sentimental-value-stellan-skarsgard-toronto-studio/As an actor, how do you approach characters who are emotional triggers within an ensemble, those who spark conflict without always understanding their own role in it?
Hi everybody on Ponce Deleon” I’m an actor, writer and producer. I’ve been with the community for a few months now. However, this is my first time introducing myself here on Stage 32. I’m a part of the Sundance Writers Collab Community and UK based Actors Forum among others. So here’s a bit of info about me below. I’d love to connect with you. Please follow me on socials and reach out to connect! I look forward to meeting and collaborating with you!
Just read RB's Coffee & Content blog which contains a video essay about Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events, spotlighting the massive effort to create a tactile, practical world on set. It talks about how they found a disused factory and turned it into a whole world with different sets and dug a massive water tank to film the water scenes. It made me think how cool and fun that would be to film in as an actor compared to a film set where most of it is added in using CGI afterwards.Here is the blog: https://www.stage32.com/blog/coffee-content-building-worlds-breaking-in-4216It got me thinking, how does the type of film/play set affect your acting .?How does it impact the extent to which and how you use your imagination? Which would you prefer, to be on a purpose built world inside a studio or on a set with minimal props?
Yeah, we've all heard it. "Can you work as a local?" In other words, we're not paying for any of your housing or gas etc. I am in the fortunate situation that I have family and friends I'm close enough to stay with, in every major market except, for some reason, Chicago. The majority of my acting work has been in New York, Atlanta, or here, where I actually live, in Central Pennsylvania. But I have worked in California, Texas, Louisiana, Ohio, Massachusetts, Florida, Alabama, and a whole host of other places. I'm also retired (twice!) and love to travel anyway, so for me, it's never really been a big deal to scurry off on a moment's notice (preferably 48 hours) to another part of the country for a one day job, enjoying the drive. But I'm curious for everyone else NOT in my position. How far will you go for a gig?
I’ve recently been cast as a replacement in a play (I'm in 2 plays at the moment, one my own, and one... this). The rest of the cast and crew are Brazilian, and they’ve already been rehearsing for about two months. I don’t speak Portuguese, so I’m often in the dark when conversations switch away from English.At my first rehearsal, things escalated between the director and one of the actresses (who is also a producer and whose idea the play was based on). The director kept giving her notes—apparently the same ones he’s been giving for weeks—and she became more and more upset. Eventually, they were shouting at each other in Portuguese for nearly 40 minutes, often pointing at me while arguing. They occasionally switched to English, and at one point the director slammed the table, spilled drinks everywhere, and walked out saying, “If you don’t take my notes and stop behaving like this, I’m done.”After he left, the actress continued arguing with the assistant director for another 20 minutes. I’ve known her for years—she’s very confident and self-assured—so I think this was more of a creative clash than a personal issue.For context:I stepped in mainly as a favour after the previous actress dropped out.I’m not being paid and also cover my own petrol (1.5 hours each way to rehearsal).I’ve been getting very positive feedback, so I don’t think I’m the problem here.I’m trying to figure out whether I should stay in this production or step away. The rehearsal environment feels very tense and unprofessional, but I also don’t want to leave them in the lurch. Has anyone been in a similar situation? What would you do?
Tribute to a Grand Master in the Craft of Acting… Peter Frisch... TheFrischApproach.com... https://youtu.be/a2Dm2HdKASg by Actor RYAN OL... https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10454348/
If so message me :)
Happy Tuesday! I've been considering the above question for a workshop proposal and got interested to see if you have a view on this too. It may of course not be of interest at all. As you likely know we can he securely attached, anxiously attached, anxiously and avoidantly attached or have a disorganised attachment style. This style affects how we relate not just romantically but with people in general including our scene partners, acting teachers, directors, crew etc. Do you have an awareness of how (if at all) your attachment style shows up in your acting process?For me, having an avoidant attachment style, I notice there is a part of me that fears being 'submerged'/overwhelmed by the emotions of the character i'm playing. Just noticing this has helped and it's still a work in progress
What's the Difference Between an Actor's Residual and Foreign Royalty ChecksResiduals VS Foreign Royalty Checks - they're not the same thing, and every working actor should know the difference. In this video, https://youtu.be/8gHEculmXCc I break down exactly how these payments work differently, when you get them, and what they mean for your acting income. Have you ever received a residual or a foreign royalty check? If so, let us know about the project and other details about the payment on the channel so we can learn from you.#residualchecks#residualchecksactors#whatareforeignroyaltychecks #whatareresidualchecks #actingresidualchecks
Hey everyone! There is something that I do once a year. It's usually like clockwork around Christmas vacation but I decided to knock it out a little early this year and share it with you as well. Many of you have seen this before (as well you should, if you are a TV/Film Actor) so it's old hat, so to speak. But those that are new to the platform, I'd like to share this class from the great Michael Caine. Let me know what you think!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZPLVDwEr7Y&t=10s
Actors- have you ever had to learn an accent for a role? If so, how did you learn it? I once had to learn a German accent for THE BEAMS ARE CREAKING. This was last century, so I had a cassette with a person teaching German accent, that I would listen to in my car during my commute.
If you haven’t been following The Pitt on HBO Max, now’s the time to catch up. This gritty, grounded medical drama just earned 13 Emmy nominations, and the behind-the-scenes process is a masterclass in actor collaboration, preparation, and presence under pressure.In this Deadline article, the cast and creative team, including Noah Wyle, Shawn Hatosy, and Katherine LaNasa, open up about the emotional depth of the show, the power of being present on set, and how leadership, tone-setting, and intention impact every performance:https://deadline.com/2025/08/the-pitt-noah-wyle-passion-series-success-1236490890Highlights include: • Why emotional continuity and vulnerability matter more than stardom • How actors tackled intense prosthetic work and emotional trauma authentically • The importance of trusting your scene partner, even with minimal prepWhether you’re early in your career or a seasoned actor, this article is full of gems about leadership, professionalism, and building a character in a high-stakes environment.Question for the Lounge:What’s the most impactful set experience you’ve had, where someone’s leadership or presence made a difference in your performance?
I am not an actor however, I will never not feel awed when listening to this man talk about the craft. I only wish I'd had the opportunity to pick his brilliant mind while he was still here.(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kdQRdJsBc-A)
Have questions about how to get the most out of Stage 32?TODAY at 12:00 pm PT / 3:00 pm ET, we’re hosting our FREE Community Open House Webcast—a live event designed to help you navigate everything Stage 32 has to offer.Whether you’re looking to grow your creative network, explore education or script services, or figure out how to make the most of the Writer’s Room, contests, pitch sessions, or lounges—this is your chance to get answers in real time.If you have questions you’d like answered live, post them at the below link:https://www.stage32.com/lounge/screenwriting/Official-QandA-Thread-August-Stage-32-Live-Community-Open-House-Webcast And if you haven’t registered yet, it’s free to attend! If you can't make it live, registering will ensure that you get the full recording to watch in your own time:https://www.stage32.com/education/products/stage-32-s-august-community-open-house Hope to see you there!
What does Denzel Washington, A$AP Rocky and Spike Lee have in common? Aside from growing up in the big smoke of NYC, the trio star in Spike Lee’s latest film Highest 2 Lowest. Watch as they talk family roots, A$AP’s throwback with Denzel’s family Christmas and Denzel’s competitive riff from He Got Game.(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WV2EpELLUuo)
The last one I read was Mathew McConaughey's "Greenlights" but am looking for another to enjoy! Please comment with any rec's :)
https://www.castingnetworks.com/news/the-ultimate-guide-to-audition-advice-from-casting-directors/
Our August Open House is happening this Wednesday, and it’s completely free for any new or current Stage 32 members to attend! This is a fantastic opportunity for you to learn how to get the most out of the platform, ask questions live, and take part in a posting challenge where one winner will receive a free Stage 32 webinar.Even if you can’t attend live, you can register to receive the full recording on demand.Here’s the link to sign up: https://www.stage32.com/education/products/stage-32-s-august-community-open-house
"A pragmatic farmer dismisses a bat bite, only to descend into a terrifying maelstrom of paranoia and rage when a visiting doctor identifies the early signs of rabies. Forced to confront a diagnosis that is a death sentence, he becomes the subject of an intimate and harrowing human drama. This is a psychological horror that charts one man's devastating descent into madness; a character study on fear, loss of control, and mortality. The protagonist's performance would be essential. With the right lead (a Jake Gyllenhaal type for his intensity), this could really hit cult status. Think the psychological breakdown of The Shining meets the visceral body horror of The Exorcist, but grounded in a terrifyingly real and clinical scenario. The logline is solid, I'm weaving the web of the story. Right now, I'm just testing the waters with the core idea. What are your first thoughts?"
The Casting Director Said I Was Great But Didn't Book: Here's Whyhttps://youtu.be/2GeDvaGppAYHave you ever gotten great feedback after an audition and didn’t book the job? If so, share your story here and on the channel so we can learn from you.You can get onto my special email list by signing up at: howtoactandmodel.com
Weeee, you found me!
I'm your buddy Bottie, I was hiding behind the scenes, but now that you've found me I'd be happy to tell you what I'm doing.
I just wrote a few fun facts about Web For Actors
Would you like to take a look?
Click here to check them out. I hope it will cause involuntary audible response.
