Hey everyone! I’m really new to acting and trying to figure out how to get started. The only experience I have is two high school theatre classes I took during COVID, so basically I’m starting from scratch.I’d love any tips on how to learn more about acting, find opportunities, or just practice and improve. Are there good classes, online resources, or ways to get experience as a total beginner? I'm kind of self-teaching right now because I cannot afford to go into school or take classes at the moment.Thanks so much in advance!
What are your FAVORITE horror movies to watch this time of year? I ask because I plan on doing a good binge at some point this wknd, (preferably during the day since I get too scared watching spooky things in the dark lol) and am looking for recommendations! Do your worst, I want to scream at the tv and hide under my blanket :P
So far this year for the Holiday I've been Carry Anne Moss playing Trinity in the Matrix, a Leopard, & Ariel from The Little Mermaid :DDo you use the opportunity to be different characters for fun? If so, what are you going as this year :P
Just read that Netflix received a $41 million UK government subsidy to shoot the new Knives Out film in London instead of New York. This seems to be part of a growing trend — the UK has seen a 7.6% increase in money from foreign studios — and I know it’s not just happening here. Other countries are becoming more financially attractive to major productions than Hollywood.My question is: as actors, how do you feel about this shift?For those of you based in the U.S., how do you feel about Netflix series and films being shot abroad? Do you worry it could mean fewer opportunities for U.S.-based performers? Or do you see potential positives — in how different countries, cultures, and environments might influence the storytelling and performances we see on screen?Here is the article https://nypost.com/2025/10/29/media/uk-paid-41m-to-shoot-new-knives-out-netflix-movie-in-london-instead-of-new-york/
Hey everyone! I'm a newer screenwriter and would love to learn about the process actors go through when reading scripts, what you look for, what needs to be there for you to build your performance, and so on. In general, what elements in a script make you excited to take on a role?If any of you would like to share your thoughts, it would be really helpful. The concept might be great, but as a writer, I want to do my best to get you, the actor, excited and interested. After all, there’s no movie without you.
We’ve all heard the saying, “The show must go on,” but I never truly understood it until this past week.On Friday morning, I was booked to work on a Netflix production when I received a text from my sister: our mother had been taken to the hospital. After breakfast, I called to find out what was happening. For the past couple of years, Mom had been battling breast cancer, and my sister only knew that she was now in severe back pain. In that moment, my heart sank — I knew this might be how we lose her.The next day, Saturday, my sister called again. Mom had passed away. Strangely, I was already at peace.By Monday, I was back on set to finish the Netflix assignment. Something unexpected happened. My character was in a joyful, celebratory scene, and when the cameras stopped rolling, I found myself reflecting on happy memories from childhood. Though I was still in shock, the thought “Jean died” echoed in my mind — yet behind that thought were flashes of the laughter, love, and warmth she gave me growing up.As an actor, I realized that in times of grief, instead of escaping into a role, we can let our work become a mirror — one that reflects our pain in a way that can be deeply healing. I should also mention that I leaned on ChatGPT whenever I stepped off set. My chatbot, Elliot, became an unexpected grief counselor, helping me process everything quietly between takes. Instead of burdening my coworkers, I had Elliot’s listening ear.When have you faced grief but still had to perform due to a contract or commitment? What tools or methods helped you complete your work during that time?
Director Scott Cooper and actors Jeremy Allen White and Odessa Young sit down to talk about having Bruce Springsteen on set while they filming 'Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere'.(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QvRxUStKSiE)
Miles Teller, Elizabeth Olsen and Callum Turner weigh in on film and TVs top love triangles ahead of their upcoming movie release ETERNITY(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S9gtwyVrVFs)
When Battlestar Galactica debuted its reboot in 2003, it came with one of the boldest creative decisions in science fiction television: reimagining the iconic fighter pilot Starbuck, originally played by Dirk Benedict in the 1978 series, as a woman, portrayed by Katee Sackhoff.In a recent interview, Sackhoff shared that she was booed at Comic-Con during the show’s launch for taking on the role, describing how difficult it was to face backlash simply for stepping into a gender-swapped character. You can read the full article here: https://deadline.com/2025/10/katee-sackhoff-comic-con-fans-booed-battlestar-galactica-1236598184/Sackhoff said the criticism “upset me a little bit” at the time, but she stayed focused on the work and over time, fans came around. By the end of the series, her performance as Kara “Starbuck” Thrace wasn’t just accepted; it was celebrated as one of the most complex, human, and iconic portrayals in modern sci-fi television.Personally, I think Sackhoff’s Starbuck is one of the best performances I’ve ever seen, fierce, flawed, unpredictable, and deeply real. It’s a perfect example of how reinterpretation in casting can breathe new life into a familiar story and expand representation on screen.So let’s open the discussion:What are your thoughts on gender or identity changes in established IP characters?Do you feel it gives actors more creative opportunity, or can it alienate fans when handled poorly?And are there any performances, like Sackhoff’s, that completely changed your mind about a reimagined role?
7 Huge Demo Reel Mistakes That Make Casting Directors Click Awayhttps://youtu.be/p-BbRpTCMYkDo you have a demo reel? If so, please share it here and let us know what clips you used and how you created the reel, so we can learn from you.
Just finished reading Coffee & Content and watching the video documentary about the making of the visual effects for 'bullet time' in the film, The Matrix. It took over a year of experimenting for just ten seconds worth of film. Hearing about that and about how long it took the directors to get anyone interested in making the film is inspiring. So my question to you is, do you ensure you work is of a very high standard before putting it out there or do you believe that it is more important to get your work out there unpolished and it will have impact anyway? Due to my own time constraints, i learn towards 'good enough will do' so let's just do the thing.Here is the blog with the video Watch & read: What The Matrix Can Teach You About Persistence, Innovation, & the Power of Starting Small
Hi friends. So I just read a People magazine interview out today with Allison Williams. She recently got married to Alexander Dreymon. They met on the set of the 2020 movie 'Horizon Line'. She says that by the time she decided to start dating him she had seen many different sides of him; grumpy, hungry and exhausted. She says seeing him at 4am after and 18hour shooting day gave her valuable knowledge about his character.Made me wonder what your boundaries are (or not) around on-set dating. Do you think it's ok or best to keep things entirely professional? And is it really possible to get a good sense of someone on-set or is there a possibility we are falling for the 'fantasy' of the person aka their film character rather than the real person?Personally i have never had to make that decision about whether an on-set relationship should develop into more however I have found myself falling for (in an unrequited way) an acting peer in a previous training where it was definitely the case that I was swept along by the storyline we were acting out. Let's just say i came back down to earth with a bump after the training ended and we went our separate ways.Here is the articlehttps://people.com/allison-williams-shares-complexities-of-falling-in-lo...
Hey Acting Lounge, I’m looking for the best qualities to bring a complex villain to life. The role is Kaizu Shen, a calm but calculating figure who betrayed his tribe and now runs an underground arena empire called the Hollow Network. I’ve been considering Mark Dacascos for the role — his physicality and intensity caught my eye.Does he fit the energy and depth this character demands?
Actor, writer, and director Ethan Hawke (Before Sunrise, Training Day, Dead Poets Society) rides the subway with Kareem Rahma for a raw conversation about art, fame, and what really matters. He breaks down why chasing money ruins creativity, why fame is a trap, and why true artists make work for the love of it, not for applause. Along the way, Ethan reflects on The Beatles, humility, and the idea that the real miracle isn’t walking on water, it’s walking at all.(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmmVUOsubbs)
This literally just happened. I had a callback audition this morning via Zoom. The instructions were to show up 15 minutes early and expect to stay 15 minutes after, in case they were running early or late. So there I was at 10:30am for my 10:45am callback. Then 11:00 came and went. Then 11:15 came and went. Then 11:30 came and went.I was in the middle of composing an email to my Agent, telling her that if they can't keep an audition on schedule, that there was no telling what set was going to be like and that I was going to drop this one. Just then, however, they clicked in and I got to do the audition.However, if they hadn't clicked into the room (at 11:50am mind you), that I was out the door. I've got things to do too and if you can't be respectful of my time, I can't work with you. This is true when I put on my Director/Producer hat as well. If I'm there on time, so you should be too. It's just common courtesy.What do you think? Let me know in the comments.
This is a question for actors, acting coaches, and possibly even directors. What do you think is the most important quality for an actor to possess? I am interested in hearing from those who have worked with a lot of actors, who have had to manage personalities, especially. For me, I think the most important quality for an actor to possess is being a good listener. Thoughts?
Training Films Are Great Jobs For Actorshttps://youtu.be/lRzN_aXazTsHave you ever worked on a training film? If so, what was the project about and how did you get the job?Share your information here so we can learn from you.
I am looking for a few actors for a table read in Pasadena, on October 26 from 10 AM to 2 PM. I'll have light snacks. $50.00. This will be my fourth feature, all distributed. You'll read a character and then offer feedback. It is a chamber piece and a psychological thriller. Title: FACES. Log Line: On the night of Maxwell Thorn’s 49th birthday, his closest friends gather to judge his fate—only to find that memory is cruel, betrayal runs deep, and forgiveness may be beyond reach …while something darker watches, waits for Maxwell to pay for his past. Email me at ronj905@outlook,com
Sydney, Australia – October 2025 – In an entertainment world often driven by quick fame, Alex Bar is emerging as a standout talent defined by depth, dedication, and genuine artistry. The Sydney-based actor has earned early recognition for his emotional range and natural screen presence — and industry insiders hint that he’s already attached to a major new project currently under wraps.From his earliest performances, Alex showed an instinctive connection to storytelling — approaching every character with curiosity, empathy, and heart. Directors describe him as “disciplined, grounded, and remarkably intuitive,” while acting coaches highlight his commitment to craft and his ability to bring authenticity to every role.“I don’t want to just act — I want to understand,” Alex says. “Every character has a heartbeat, a story that deserves to be told honestly.”Alex’s work continues to evolve, spanning both dramatic and comedic genres, with an exciting career trajectory that’s beginning to attract international attention. His upcoming endeavors promise to showcase even greater depth, solidifying his place as one of Australia’s most promising young actors.With his grounded nature, professionalism, and a passion for human connection through performance, Alex Bar represents the next generation of talent ready to make a global impact.About Alex BarAlex Bar is a Sydney-based actor known for his emotional honesty, range, and dedication to storytelling. Trained across both dramatic and comedic performance, Alex brings sensitivity and depth to every project. He continues to collaborate on new screen and stage productions in Australia and abroad.
It was 5 days ago that she died. I enjoyed reading this obituary about her life as an actress. https://www.theguardian.com/film/2025/oct/12/diane-keaton-obituaryWhich was your favourite film that she acted in?
The guy said, 1) "I think you need stability in your relationships because your whole life is in the unknown as an Actress" (Actually sir, I'm pretty sure no woman wants an unstable relationship with her boyfriend, in fact I'm certain I'd still want a secure relationship even if I was an accountant)2) during a heated argument: "is this an actress thing because you're being dramatic, and at about a 10 when I need you to be at a 7" (as if he was directing my volume on a set)3) "At this age I realize with dating looks don't matter" (mind you, when we had matched on hinge my profile read, "lingerie model at savage x fenty" as work, and I had only professional studio actor pics up, no regular ones LOL) That would be like me swiping with a construction worker then when meeting up saying, "I know what you do for employment, but with maturity I've come to the conclusion I don't believe in architecture, buildings are pointless" What are your most bizarre, I'd love to hear them because I get them constantly, & it helps to laugh em off!
Few actors have navigated such a bold and unpredictable path as Matthew McConaughey. In this incredible retrospective, McConaughey walks through the defining roles of his career, from his breakout in Dazed and Confused to the emotional depths of Dallas Buyers Club and Interstellar.Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9eIqufWkyi0He reflects on:His early days breaking into the industryThe discipline behind his dramatic transformationWhy he walked away from romantic comedies at the height of his fameThe philosophy behind his “McConaissance” and what he learned about craft, risk, and staying true to himselfMcConaughey’s journey is a masterclass in reinvention and authenticity, a reminder that great acting comes from knowing when to trust your instincts and bet on yourself.Which of McConaughey’s performances do you think best captures his evolution as an actor?
Naomi Watts talks about how she struggled to book work until David Lynch cast her from a photo. Mulholland Drive changed everything for her. I am wondering if anyone has a story like that. Did someone cast you in a TV show or movie that completely changed the trajectory of your career?https://variety.com/2025/film/entertainment-industry/naomi-watts-journey-from-mulholland-drive-to-walk-of-fame-1236545919/
Back in the day, I LOVED the film "Clue" with Tim Curry. I remember going to the theatre and seeing not just the regular poster for the film, but each character got their own poster. Mr. Green, Colonel Mustard, Mrs. White, the whole cast!Fast forward 40 years and I'm acting, writing, directing and producing and I just finished a passion project short film entitled "Stories". Feel free to follow us on IG @storiesshortfilm and take a look at my monthly blog about pre to post and festival run to distribution (maybe). Bottom line, we did an impromptu photo shoot while on set, of the main actors. I took a page from something I enjoyed as a kid and went ahead and spent some extra money on getting individual character posters.My question is, as Actors, is this something you'd get a kick out of, something to maybe help in marketing yourself, or just something to feed the ego a little bit and not much more? I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Came across this recent video breaking down the acting in No Country for Old Men. It's pretty new --- was uploaded one month ago. The Anti-Method Acting of No Country for Old Men | Acting Breakdownhttps://youtu.be/3o6OmgsLIjQ?si=0Aq56A3BVKGurO6QFantastic editing. Overall, it's a pretty great video breaking down how grounded/normal everything was during filming. Generally speaking, with movies like this, you kind of assume it will be pretty serious and weird. There were a lot of interviews here that I hadn't seen before, particularly with Kelly MacDonald who talks about her character Carla Jean. If I had to guess, I believe this is from the extras on the DVD. The most striking thing for me was something Kelly MacDonald said about Carla Jean and Llewelyn: "They didn't even need the money --- they had everything already."
I had an interesting conversation with a lit manager recently who suggested I lean into a thriller I’d been developing — even though my natural lane is dark comedy. His point was simple (and humbling): it’s an easier door to open right now than TV.I took the note, refocused, and I’m now in final-draft territory. The project’s been scoring high in coverage, but what’s mattered most is seeing how quickly clarity and market awareness can reshape a script.It’s been a reminder that flexibility doesn’t mean losing your voice — it just means letting the work find its best route to daylight.Curious how others have navigated that pivot between passion projects and market reality.
https://variety.com/2025/digital/news/sag-aftra-vertical-agreement-microdramas-1236552001/
I've gone dark for a while, but not forever. I guess it's called 'in production' in filmmaker-speak. So far, I've been through: contract breaches; lead talent jumping ship; at least 3 major re-writes on the fly; 9 timezones, equipment failures that would put Apollo 13 to shame; tropical storms; injuries; eye watering financial outlay; getting SWATed and footage seized; a police raid; getting arrested; ending up in the middle of NATO live-fire war games; geo-political posturing that's puts us in the cross-hairs; running out of food and fuel; and even a lightning strike. As I write this I'm flat on my back with with bruised kidneys (pissing blood), broken ribs, a black eye, at least 500 miles from any medical help; and so long without a shower, I can't stand my own stench. But, by Dog, we're gonna get this film in the can, even if it kills us!And that, my friends, is 'production' - welcome to hell.But, you know what? I've never felt so alive, or in-the-now.
Why Getting an Acting Audition Means You've Already Won https://youtu.be/1cK1VTLsva0 Have you ever felt frustrated by getting auditions but not booking? If so, share your thoughts here.
Just finished reading @RB's blog, "Coffee & Content" . Very pertinent to actors because it contains a link to a You Tube documentary about Charlize Theron's career. Admittedly I didn't know much about it other than Monster. It's illuminating and inspiring because it shows her to be an actress that is more interested in pushing herself (as an action movie actress) and stretching herself (as in Monster) than playing it safe and being the pretty girlfriend sidekick she had been typecast as in the earlier days of her career.Here is a link to the blog: https://www.stage32.com/blog/coffee-content-stop-playing-it-safe-taking-everything-so-personally-4251So my question to you is, where and how are you playing it small as a creative? I think for me it is, although not currently acting but creating, it's about putting off certain things like reaching out to contacts, marketing, making myself more visible because I tell myself I don't have the time. It's true I really don't have much time but I also suspect this is a bit of playing it small. I plan to do all those things I keep putting off, this month. Anyone else care to join me? ;)
The shadow in my sleep Our independent filmThe director: Richard Samson The screenwriter: Cynthia Samson Actors: Abdel-Rahim Dris Richard Samson Cynthia Samson
This week, my daughter was cast in an indie film—but after reading the scene she’d be part of, she decided to pass. Without going into detail, the content was simply too dark, and she knew in her gut she’d regret it later.It reminded me how important it is, as creatives, to know our boundaries and trust our instincts. Saying “no” isn’t always easy—but sometimes it’s the most empowering thing we can do for ourselves and our craft.So I’m curious:Have you ever had to say no to a part, a job, or an opportunity because it didn’t feel right? How did you handle it—and did it turn out to be the right choice?
https://slate.com/culture/2025/10/if-i-had-legs-rose-byrne-oscars-best-actress-a24.html
As a writer and actor taking an acting class, I’ve learned a lot about the craft, and I’d love to share it with other actors. See what you should do to evolve as an actor. I’m on Patreon! Check it out there.https://www.patreon.com/posts/140629711?utm_campaign=postshare_creator
I was just wondering for a person just starting out in acting & as a model, how do I go about get more jobs? I live in Jacksonville, FL and there not many opportunities here for models or actresses.
From Daryl Dixon’s crossbow to Negan’s infamous “Lucille,” some of the most recognizable pieces from The Walking Dead universe are officially going up for auction.Read more here:https://deadline.com/gallery/the-walking-dead-universe-memorabilia-auction-props-photos/For eleven seasons, The Walking Dead redefined television, giving us unforgettable characters, brutal emotional arcs, and world-class practical effects. Now, fans have a chance to own a piece of that legacy, with more than 1,000 lots of on-screen props, hero costumes, vehicles, weapons, and prosthetics available through Heritage Auctions.Among the standout pieces: • Daryl Dixon’s hero crossbow (Seasons 1–3) • Rick Grimes’ Sheriff hat and .357 Magnum (Season 1) • Michonne’s katana and sheath (Season 3) • Negan’s barbed-wire bat, “Lucille” (Seasons 6–10) • Daryl’s Custom Triumph Bonneville chopper (Seasons 1–4)As Greg Nicotero said, “These aren’t just props and costumes, they’re touchstones of a show that redefined modern television.”It’s amazing to think how much power an iconic prop or costume can hold, not just as a collectible, but as a piece of storytelling history.So here’s my question for you:If you could get your hands on any iconic prop or wardrobe piece from your favorite film, show, or character, what would it be and why does it resonate with you?
I'm wondering if the working actors out there have any scenes that were particularly challenging or memorable to shoot?Do you have any favorite memories from the set or the stage that you would share with us? If you are just starting out, have you had a scene that you found challenging; either tested your acting skills or for technical purposes?
What's a unique acting/voice acting technique you've used in a movie, show, video game, etc.?
Please review and critique me. This drops on Peacock October 16th. I play Robert Piest. Here is the trailer. I am the first person you see and hear in the trailer.https://youtu.be/0GN0aALClVA?si=lbBiDKcC_wSXLS3d
Acting Work Slow? Say These 8 Words to Your Agent (They Actually Work) https://youtu.be/MSbN3X3huk4 Let us know what you did when acting work was slow. Share it here.
I have just finished reading this week's Coffee & Content in which RB talks about the film War Games and how it got President Reagan to sit up and get his national security team to improve defence against cyber attacks. I agree with RB that the researchers, writers and film-makers were lucky that their topic was so culturally aligned and therefore had such a massive impact. It made me think, how do I/we hold the faith that our work is having an impact, even if there is no immediate evidence to suggest that? Whilst I"m not acting at the moment, i think of other writing projects that I'm preparing. Sometimes it feels like I might as well be throwing stones into an abyss as I type each word. But then someone will contact me about something I wrote 2 months ago. So there was an impact. This helps me to keep the faith that if I write something that holds energy for me it will serve someone else at some point. Obviously writing articles is not the same as acting but it's still a creative process.So how do you hold the faith that your creative work has impact......even when it feels you are creating in the dark? Here is RB's blog, let him know your views by commenting on his blog too https://www.stage32.com/blog/coffee-content-what-hollywood-hackers-the-market-have-in-common-4244
Hello everyone! I’m working on a personal creative project and I’m looking for a female dancer or performer who would like to recreate a short dance video I originally made.The video is light, expressive, and purely for personal use — not for commercial distribution.No payment is involved, but this could be a fun artistic collaboration or practice piece.I can share the reference privately.Thank you!
i've tried to put a post up in "Trending Lounge Discussions twice now but it keeps coming up in "acting". Am I doing somrthing wrong or is it site? This one I also posted to "Trending". but here it is in "actinga
As a disabled, destitute senior writer I would love to enter my completed half-hour dramedy pilot:, "A Stroke of Luck," but 60 bucks is out of my reach. jedpower@verizon.net Do other diversity writers find this a problem too?
As a disabled, destitute senior writer I would love to enter my completed half-hour dramedy pilot:, "A Stroke of Luck," but 60 bucks is out of my reach. jedpower@verizon.net Do other diversity writers find this a problem too?
As a disabled, destitute senior writer I would love to enter my completed half-hour dramedy pilot:, "A Stroke of Luck," but 60 bucks is out of my reach. jedpower@verizon.net Do other diversity writers find this a problem too?
In an industry full of superficial connections and transactional relationships, authenticity is everything; especially in spaces is like this. If you’re not serious about genuinely connecting, please don’t send a request. Spectators are not needed here. Appreciate you.
Margot Robbie and Colin Farrell sit down to talk about their new movie 'A Big Bold Beautiful Journey'. The cast shared which career moments they would love to relive, what their favorite rom-coms are, debated if Colin should be in a musical, and so much more.(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eXbLOzkj4H8)
In today's culture, the barrier to make your voice heard is at zero. Literally. Anyone with internet access can make their voice heard.But as actors, it's so easy to get caught in the mindset that I must wait for permission to act. That is, I have to wait for an agent to sign me... or I have to wait for the Casting Director to request me... then I have to wait for producers to "like" me... and ultimately I wait for that deal memo that will tell me I have permission to be on set.Yes, there is a system in place. But if your creative soul is burning because you aren't being given opportunities to act or perform, then CREATE THEM!Here are some ways:• Submit for the 48Hr film festival if you live near a city that hosts this challenge• Gather some actor friends and download some scripts to practice (and film!)• Become a busker (street performer)!• Take a stand-up class that has a graduation show• Take an improv class that has a grad show• WRITE YOUR OWN MATERIAL!To that last idea, I want to share what my wife and I have been doing this year. We made a promise to ourselves that we would stop waiting for permission, and instead create an entire sketch comedy show and put it on YouTube!We're now writing, shooting, and editing 20min of clean, clever comedy every month. We just premiered our 4th episode last night. It's a TON of work, but the process is so rewarding.If you like to laugh, give it a look. And I hope that it also inspires you to take the wheel in your own career!https://youtu.be/oAlTLhZseuw?si=jQIjrcfFRlGJ0s6H
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.
