Have you ever had a performance in a film that just clicked? Like, you were so in tune with the character and what they were doing in that scene, that you could practically do no wrong? This week, I'm not coming to you as an Actor, I'm coming to you as a Director. I got to direct a passion project last week that has been 40 years in the making. Feel free to check out the first in a series of monthly, real time, blogs I'm doing on it here: https://www.stage32.com/blog/a-story-about-stories-the-making-of-a-passion-project-short-film-4135 The second in the series will follow next week. Anyway, I am just really proud of my Actors on this one. Sure, they had nine months to delve into the character and the music that inspired them (every scene is a song from Genesis). Sure, they had great costumes done by a true pro of the craft. Sure, we were filming in a location (a museum) that inspired spookiness and of course an incredible DP (director of the Best Indie film of the year for 2023, Turbo Cola) and Gaffer who seemed to speak a second language when it came to lighting. But when the ACTING is on point, everything else, all the work of the other departments, is heightened. So, what is your experience in this? Have you had a character you wished you could play over and over because everything else just fell in to place? A couple of the Actors on our shoot indicated that they can't wait for the feature. But that, as they say, is a story for another time.
It's time to humble brag. Would love to hear from those who are working actors as well. What are your strengths as an actor? Are you good at improv? Comedic or dramatic? I think I am better at dramatic scenes then comedic ones. My strength as an actor is being able to stay connected to my partner(s) and stay in the scene. My emotions are real and I feel them deeply.
Yes, it is true. I just spoke with a casting company in Arizona. They turned their operations over to an AI. The head casting director lets an AI do all the work. He provides the AI with what a production is looking for, and then the AI searches the casting director's database and gives him a list of talent to contact. I never considered that this could, or would happen. This could revolutionize extras casting, but I think it will be more challenging for an AI to cast principal actors.
Whether you first saw him on The Cosby Show or caught his recent Emmy-winning performance on The Resident, Malcolm-Jamal Warner has built a career full of range, longevity, and reinvention.This photo retrospective from Deadline walks through his impressive body of work, from sitcom stardom and spoken word albums to dramatic television turns that prove just how far his talent stretches:https://deadline.com/gallery/malcolm-jamal-warner-a-career-in-photos/For actors, it’s an inspiring example of what it means to evolve with the industry, take bold creative risks, and stay true to your voice.Which part of his career has inspired you the most?
Hey actors, are you regularly on IMDbPro? It’s more than a platform—it’s a space to connect and grow in this craft we love. Do you check it often and use it to network? Share your thoughts!
Director Ari Aster and stars Pedro Pascal and Joaquin Phoenix talk through the struggle of shooting in erratic New Mexico weather and their instant chemistry as they break down a scene from their new movie 'Eddington'.(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1MeI2xQ2SkM)
Self-Tape Editing for Actors: Essential iMovie Tips Casting Directors Expecthttps://youtu.be/1v85t6-Eg4QEver run into an editing issue? If so, how did you solve it? Share your experience here and on the channel so we can learn from you.
We’re so used to being the ones auditioning for someone else’s vision… but what if you pitched your own? Whether it's a short film idea, a character concept, or a creative collaboration—knowing how to pitch opens doors.This blog from Stage 32’s Filmmakers Club breaks it down beautifully. Even if you're not a filmmaker (yet), it's full of gold for actors who want more creative control, visibility, or just better conversations with writers, producers, and directors.Plus: there's a Filmmakers Club Challenge happening this month to practice pitching. If you're curious about creating your own work—or just want to understand what goes into getting a project off the ground—check this out. https://www.stage32.com/blog/july-filmmakers-club-week-4-lets-talk-about-nailing-your-pitch-4170Would love to hear from other actors—have you ever pitched your own idea? A character? A project you wanted to star in? Are you curious to try?
Gerçek Yaşam Hikayem – From Struggles to Strength Merhabalar, Babamın “tatlı balı” olarak büyüdüm, altı yaşımdan sonra baba hasretiyle hayata tutundum. Yedi kardeşin dördüncüsü ve annesinin güçlü “Monika”sı olarak, polis olma hayalimle her zorluğu güç kaynağına çevirdim. Şimdi, bu gerçek yaşam hikayemi bir film ve belgesel projesine dönüştürüyorum. --- Hello everyone, I grew up as my father’s “sweet little one” and, after the age of six, held on to life while longing for my father. As the fourth of seven siblings and my mother’s strong “Monika,” I turned every hardship into strength with my dream of becoming a police officer. Now, I am turning this true life story into a film and documentary project.
Merhabalar, Babamın “tatlı balı” olarak büyüdüm, altı yaşımdan sonra baba hasretiyle hayata tutundum. Yedi kardeşin dördüncüsü ve annesinin güçlü “Monika”sı olarak, polis olma hayalimle her zorluğu güç kaynağına çevirdim. Şimdi, bu gerçek yaşam hikayemi bir film ve belgesel projesine dönüştürüyorum. --- Hello everyone, I grew up as my father’s “sweet little one” and, after the age of six, held on to life while longing for my father. As the fourth of seven siblings and my mother’s strong “Monika,” I turned every hardship into strength with my dream of becoming a police officer. Now, I am turning this true life story into a film and documentary project.
ICYMI: Coverfly is merging with Stage 32 to be a global screenwriting contest hub for all Oscar and BAFTA qualifying contests. How do you think this will impact your career or open doors for you? What opportunities could open up if the short film you starred in got recognized by an Oscar-qualifying contest like HollyShorts?https://www.stage32.com/blog/stage-32-launches-global-screenwriting-contest-hub-oscar-and-bafta-qualifying-contests-participating-4165
On Unqualified with Anna Farris, Melissa McCarthy said when she gets a new part the first thing she does is try on wigs. When she finds the right hairstyle, then she has the character. So actors will you share what is your process for preparing for a role? What do you do for character development? Do you do any kind of research? Have discussions with the costume designer regarding your character's look? Do you do any kind of physical preparation?
Hello, I’m excited to share my short film script titled “The Promise: A Silent Battle” — a deeply emotional and motivational story about a young man, Zayden, who loses everything but holds on to one thing: his mother's final advice — “never lie, never do wrong.” Homeless, hungry, and rejected by society, he comes close to crossing the line, but fate intervenes. The story ends with an unexpected, life-changing turn — a reflection on morality, endurance, and silent struggle. This 10–12 minute short is designed for low-budget production with a powerful message. I believe it will resonate deeply with audiences, especially in today’s world of unseen battles.If you’re looking for a short with heart, humanity, and hope — I’d love to share the full script.
Big news in the acting world: Sean Astin has officially announced that he’s running for SAG-AFTRA President in the upcoming 2025 election.Read the full article on Deadline: https://deadline.com/2025/07/sean-astin-running-for-sag-aftra-president-2025-1236455606/Astin says his decision to run comes from “a sense of duty” to the acting community, with a focus on “financial transparency, union solidarity, and addressing AI concerns.” He’ll be up against current president Fran Drescher, who hasn’t yet confirmed whether she’ll seek re-election.If you’re a union member, or hope to be one, what issues do you want to see the next SAG-AFTRA president address?Let’s start a conversation:- What leadership qualities matter most to you?- What changes would you like to see in contract negotiations, support for working actors, or protections around emerging tech like AI?
I just read the beautiful journey of Sandra and she motivated me so much. That blog was beautifully crafted and I could read her passion through every sentence. Thank you for motivating me
Stepping into the cape comes with big expectations, and even bigger shoes to fill. David Corenswet, who will lead James Gunn’s Superman, recently opened up about the advice he received from past Supermen Henry Cavill and Tyler Hoechlin:https://deadline.com/2025/07/david-corenswet-superman-advice-henry-cavill-tyler-hoechlin-1236450467/Both actors offered grounded, thoughtful guidance that speaks volumes about what it takes to embody such an iconic role with authenticity, balance, and grace.For actors in this community, it’s a reminder of how every performance, especially one that comes with legacy; benefits from mentorship, collaboration, and staying true to your own voice.If you were handed an iconic character, what advice would you hope to receive, or pass along?
Good morning everyone, hope all is good! I wanna start getting more active on here and interacting with you all more, so everyday I’m going to try to post something on here, whether it’s questions I have for you guys or even anything new I'm working on, anything new I found out about, and etc. first question I want to ask you guys is about networking on social media. did you guys make a new account just for acting, or did you guys use your own personal page to show off your work? I would like to use my personal page, but I feel like it’s been too much of a “personal page” for so long I personally feel Like starting a new page and account would be better (even with me having to start over from scratch) and that account can only for my acting and etc. what do you guys think?
I honestly didn't know Vertical Dramas were a thing until I read this article from The Guardian. It caught my interest and made me think that - as a late to the game actress- it could be way to gain some experience and add to my Showreel. Here is the article https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2025/jun/22/a-new-space-to-play-in-can-vertical-dramas-save-the-uks-tv-sector?For any of you who don't know, vertical dramas are ultra-short narrative series—often just 60 seconds per episode—designed to be watched on smartphones in portrait mode. They're gaining popularity on apps like FlexTV and ReelShort, especially in the UK, as a fast, low-cost way for actors, writers, and directors to stay creatively active and visible during industry slowdowns. The pros are: quick exposure for creatives; low-budget, fast-turnaround format; platform for experimenting with story and structure. The cons are: Often underpaid or unpaid work; Risk of creative burnout or lowered standards; Questions about sustainability, artistic depth, and fair compensationHere's an example of one: https://youtu.be/btoNZ4KYEaoSo, as an actor have you been in one or would you potentially if an offer came along?
After Auditioning, I Didn't Book The TV Show Gotham - Then I Did: Here's Whyhttps://youtu.be/neWbngWX6tgHave you ever booked a job after being turned down? If so, share your experience here and on the channel so we can learn from you.
I recently received a CMail invitation to audition for two day-player roles in a film. One was a single line of dialogue, the other included a full page of text.The single-line character was an easy yes. Despite the brevity, the line revealed everything I needed to know: this was an abusive high school professional. I understood him immediately. He masks his threat with a disingenuous smile, delivering it just within earshot of the student’s parents. There was depth, intent, and subtext—all in that one line.The second role, however, was more complicated. It involved a doctor assessing a critically ill patient. But the dialogue felt flat—just words on a page. There was no clear character, no hint at how this doctor operates or what drives him. I initially agreed to self-tape, but after sitting with the material, I realized I couldn’t approach it truthfully. I ultimately wrote back to the casting director to explain why I needed to step away from the audition.So I ask you:Have you ever found yourself in a similar situation?If so, how did you handle it?Looking forward to hearing your experiences and insights.
In a recent interview, Michael Douglas shared that he’s stepping back from acting, stating he has “no real intentions” of returning to the screen. After a legendary career spanning decades, from Wall Street to Behind the Candelabra to The Kominsky Method, Douglas is choosing a quieter chapter, saying he’s satisfied with what he’s done.Read the full article here:https://deadline.com/2025/07/michael-douglas-no-real-intentions-acting-again-1236450628/Actors—how do you feel when you hear stories like this? What do you hope your own creative legacy looks like?
https://youtu.be/ILy1ug8S1Do?si=zBSlhI0fxcTrjfiiAs an actress, I know that a dress is never just fabric – it’s transformation, presence, and storytelling. In this short visual, “Wearing the Role with My Tascano”, I explore how wardrobe becomes part of the performance, shaping emotion and character even before a word is spoken. As a Stage 32 Ambassador for Germany and the Dominican Republic, I’m passionate about connecting international creatives and celebrating the visual language of storytelling — through movement, style, and expression.
Join the executive producers and showrunners behind The Witcher, Severance, Snowpiercer, and Stargate for a free Stage 32 webcast filled with insider insights on what's selling, how to adapt existing IPs, and what networks and streamers are hungry for right now.Attend live to ask your questions during the Q&A and hear what networks and streamers are buying now.Can’t make it live? Register anyway, and the full recording will be added to your Stage 32 Education Library.Free registration: https://www.stage32.com/education/products/stage-32-presents-sci-fi-fantasy-roundtable-the-state-of-the-industry-adapting-ip-today
I'm looking forward to seeing this movie. You can tell he's really living the character. Beautiful cinematography, strong acting, perfect scenery, and a well-adjusted team. This scene looks promising. You can see the dedication. !!! Living another life, feeling intensely, transforming emotion into art.I remember a recording in which Ana, a super-talented actress, gave her all. It was incredible to see, super inspiring for those who were just starting out and watching this dedication up close. I imagine how hard she and other big names worked so that we could really feel each scene, truly enter into that atmosphere.I watched movies that made me feel like I was inside the story. One of them was Somewhere in Time. My wife and I felt like we were floating with the movie... it was magical. I'm sure many of you here have also had that feeling.
Actor Anxiety: Why Being Asked to Re-Record Your Lines Isn’t Always Badhttps://youtu.be/2-emlHSlxKIHave you ever been asked to re-record your lines? If so, share your experience here and on the channel so we can learn from you.
Dear Stage 32 Community,My name is Yvonne, an actress with a deep passion for storytelling through my own theater shows. Looking back, I recall being approached for film roles when I was younger. Yet, I couldn’t bring myself to say yes. Why? It wasn’t fear or doubt—it was the lack of control. Reading someone else’s script felt like stepping into a world I hadn’t shaped, and that didn’t sit right with me.Back then, did I envision myself writing screenplays years later? Honestly, no. But here I am, crafting my own stories for the screen. Do I see myself starring in these films? Not quite. For now, I’m more drawn to pitching my work—think press-style sizzle reels—while envisioning other actors bringing my scripts to life. Will this mindset shift? Perhaps. I’m open to change, but I’m curious about the journey.This brings me to my question for you, the talented Stage 32 community: Are there any screenwriters here who also star in their own films? What’s your philosophy behind wearing both hats? How do you balance the creative control of writing with the vulnerability of acting in your own story? I’m eager to hear your experiences and insights, as I navigate this path with curiosity and an open mind.Thank you for sharing your wisdom!Warm regards, Yvonne
I was just reading how Michael Sheen from Good Omens and Twilight recently released a children’s picture book, A Home for Spark the Dragon, benefiting homeless charities. He also launched and funded a national Welsh theatre. He has described himself as a “not-for-profit actor.” Emma Stone, Mark Ruffalo, Tarji, P. Henson and others are also 'actor activists' My question is, Have you ever used your acting or creative skills in service of a cause you care about? If so, what happened?
Hope everyone had a great weekend!I wanted to let you know that our 4th of July Sale has been EXTENDED until midnight tonight!You can save 20% on all Stage 32 education — including webinars, classes, and labs — by using the code 4THOFJULY25 at checkout.If you have any questions or would like a recommendation, feel free to email us at edu@stage32.com .... We’re always here to help!Hope you take advantage of it — and have a productive week ahead. Happy Learning!
I was watching "Wicked" and thinking to myself, 'Wow, it would be fun to work on a film with Cynthia Erivo.' She is so talented. When I visited my IMDB page, I discovered a few years ago I in fact did appear in a musical (visual album) featuring Cynthia Erivo. Thank you, universe! ❤️
Correction ! The ‘Trans-Atlantic’ accent is NOT 'made up ‘ without ‘true native’ speakers. The ‘Mid-Atlantic' accent is NOT the same... https://ryanol.com/trans-atlantic-and-mid-atlantic-accents ... #EnglishAccents #Transatlantic #MidAtlantic #Accents #English
https://youtu.be/tVPifcnLRas?si=o9hDmAG83w8V_N5THey everyone as a Stage 32 Team Ambassador for Germany and the Dominican Republic I’m excited to share my new YouTube video How to Find the Right Drama School Private or State-Funded In the video I talk about the differences between private and state-funded acting schools and why public institutions often offer stronger industry connections especially through theatre and state-supported networks Watch here [insert your YouTube link] I’d love to hear your thoughts what kind of training did you choose and why Let’s open the conversation ⭐️☀️
https://youtu.be/NEZJrQRRJ7M?si=fKhtsQTl2vHgONMB
I first moved to Los Angeles Aug 2014, fresh from another country, (although American) so the majority of my work and reps had been overseas with people no one had heard of. Because I had been a union actor there, I went directly to the SAG website & printed up list of SAG Franchised agencies based in Los Angeles, crossing out each as I sent submissions. At that time, the majority were still only excepting mail outs, so I first sent to all that took emails, then went and printed up a ton of headshots with my one page shortened resume on the back for the theatrical ones, as well as front to back model comp cards, that I stapled to a paper version of a resume for the modeling agencies. (since both of my managers at Williams Management and Gilchrist Management had divisions for both, I was used to having two different resumes and sets of pics, one for acting, one for modeling)I got called in to meet with three in person, Wilhelmina wanted me for their plus size division (but I would have to put on 20 lbs) Mavrick Artists wanted me for the Sports and Specialty Stunt Division (but I would have to keep up with training although I had just been certified for a bunch of safety and stunts in Oz ) and Peak Models wanted me as I was, didn't matter if I gained or lost weight or kept up with certs or not so I went with them and oddly enough, the agent I would have had/& had met with at Wilhelmina ended up coming over to Peak so I got the representative I wanted in the end anyway!Moral of the story is, you never know what could happen! Did you have any no's that lead to yes's? Have you recently done any rep hunts? What seemed to work for you? And not work for you? I'd love to hear!
Charlize Theron has spoken about an uncomfortable audition she had with an well known director when she was starting out. This made me think, what about you? Do you have a story of an audition gone wrong, or a scary situation, and how did you handle it? What advice would you give to new actors going out on auditions on how to stay safe?https://variety.com/2025/film/news/charlize-theron-director-sexual-pass-audition-1236446079/
Sharing this week's Coffee and Content blog about Sinners. Lots of interesting stuff in the video essay on Sinners https://youtu.be/DPGf5TfGwAk?si=nTD9XokhIfxAX1SZ. One thing it talks about is how Coogler explores immersive storytelling. I"m wondering, How do you use immersive techniques (like internal monologue or unconventional staging) in your own acting work? Here is the link to Coffee and Content https://www.stage32.com/blog/coffee-content-what-ryan-cooglers-sinners-teaches-us-about-creative-control-4147
This Free Actor's Marketing Tool Is A Networking Game Changerhttps://youtu.be/8wxi0T5fQLsHave any suggestions for apps that help actors? If so, share it here and on my channel so we can learn from you.
This fascinating audition tape comparison shows Emilia Clarke and Claire Foy both reading for the role of Elizabeth in Belle (2013), a role that ultimately went to Sarah Gadon:https://youtube.com/shorts/oSVkfFp93fU?si=PfBFjtFO5dsRbKo_What’s so striking here is how different each take is, yet both are deeply compelling. Each actress brings a unique emotional tone, personality, and point of view to the same lines of dialogue, proving just how much life the performer breathes into the text.Neither of them got the part in the end, and yet you can clearly see the caliber of their talent. It’s a perfect example of how auditioning isn’t about being “perfect,” it’s about offering a truthful, grounded, and inspired interpretation.Rejection isn’t failure. It’s just not this one. Not this moment. But your moment is coming, and every audition is a brick in the foundation of a creative career built to last.Have you ever had an audition you were proud of, even if you didn’t book the role? Let’s talk about it.
I am a British cinematographer with 31 years experience with 32 features to my name, offering a very intensive on.line workshops on.line .Offering a great "sizzle reel"and a chance to be casted in my next features.Please p.m.Mike@enkiproductions1.8b.io
As an actress, producer, and Stage32 ambassador, I’ve experienced what it feels like to be on the outside – and what it takes to slowly, authentically work your way in. In my latest video, I talk about: the invisible “circle” that often determines who gets seen – and who doesn’t how to make yourself heard as a newcomer – without losing your voice why networking isn’t the same as pretending how to know your own value – even before the industry reflects it back to you and why persistence matters – especially in the quiet phases Maybe you’re in that space right now. Or maybe you remember what that felt like. Either way, I’d love for you to watch the video – and even more, to hear your thoughts. Watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=osTbHpC5Qts&t=178s
Hey all! I know we've all had this happen before. The inevitable last minute audition sent by your Agent. I had just woken up for the morning and had a full day planned with pre-production on the project I'm directing/Producing next month. I was about to head out the door when I get an email from my Agent in Atlanta. As the door is wide open, letting out the AC, I decide to see what it's about. Now, normally, I answer emails at night when I'm done with my day but for some reason, I decided to look at this one right then and there. No idea why. It was an audition that was due in an hour and a half! Ugh! I read a little more of the email and saw that the audition was for a show starring someone I have followed my entire GenX life. One of the most recognizable stars on the planet. As inconvenient as it was, I closed the door and went to my basement studio to do the audition, cursing the entire time. "This is what you WANTED Brandon!" I kept reminding myself. Now, am I going to get this part? Probably not. Only an hour prep time, the lines weren't memorized and there was no reader. Ugh! I KNOW! But still... I got to ACT that day, when I was only going to be doing the "boring stuff" of movie making. It brightened my day that day. So, what are your last minute audition stories? Did you get the part or was it just cool to get to act that day? Let me know!
If you’re a fan of character-driven dramedies, Nobody Wants This has likely been on your radar. In this new article from Deadline, actress Justine Lupe shares insights on where Season 2 is headed and how the show continues to challenge expectations with its honest, offbeat storytelling.Read the article here:https://deadline.com/2025/06/justine-lupe-nobody-wants-this-season-2-1236436051/And if you missed it, we recently hosted a FREE Stage 32 webcast with series writer Mahtub Zare Mochanloo, where she discussed writing for Nobody Wants This, breaking into a writers’ room, and crafting these complex roles. You can now watch the full conversation on demand:https://www.stage32.com/education/products/30-minutes-with-nobody-wants-this-writer-mahtub-zare-mochanlooActors, what kinds of roles do you hope writers continue to create in shows like this? Let’s talk about what you’d want in a character, even if the show’s title says otherwise.
I'm sure this has been discussed before but "Barbra Streisand’s call-out on gender pay disparity got me thinking—how can we, as actors, be more empowered or aware when negotiating our own rates?"Here is the article https://ew.com/barbra-streisand-wasnt-paid-as-much-male-costars-meet-the-fockers-11759285
Hi everyone,I’m not entirely sure which lounge this post belongs in, so apologies if it’s misplaced.I recently submitted a project to an actor’s agent and received this response: "XYZ Agency has a firm policy of not accepting unsolicited material."I’m a bit confused—how are you supposed to contact actors or directors with projects if their agents won’t accept unsolicited material? Do agents actively seek out or query material for their clients, or is there another pathway I’m missing?Any insights or experiences you can share would be greatly appreciated!
Actors Should Stop Trying to Read the Casting Director's Mind (Do THIS Instead) https://youtu.be/Ka3Kkqv1EUo Have any suggestions when preparing for an audition? If so, share it here and on the channel so we can learn from you.
Hello everyone. Fellow actor here, well actor, director, playwright, but wanted to connect to some actors since theater is my first love. Hope to make some connections. I'm an open book so feel free to ask any questions you may have. I'm a little awkward when it comes to small talk. Thanks for committing to the awkwardness.
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.
