debor009

There's an old army saying that assumption is the mother of all screw ups, and it's as true on set as it is on base.  This week I came across a terrific article by Casting Director Lana Veenker on errors to avoid on set.  I've copied them below, but here's the link to her original article .  Lots of good advice here.   From "12 Major Faux Pas to Avoid on Set," Backstage magazine, January 13, 2014: 1. Working with cameras and mics. “One of my most embarrassing acting memories was forgetting I was miked.” Between takes, the crew can hear your every word. Never make fun of, hit on, gossip, or gripe about your colleagues. This is one of the most common on-set blunders. (See also: looking into the camera; not being off book.)   Kay: I would add to turn off the mic before heading for the restroom. 2. Handling food and drink. “During the lunch break, I dipped my tie into the BBQ sauce and soiled my white shirt.” Protect your wardrobe from spills and stains. Also ...

There aren't many films about the acting experience that I would recommend, but this one is pure gold and no one seems to be promoting it. In That Guy...Who Was in That Thing , a 2012 film from #NewWaveEntertainment, serious (and recognizable) supporting actors talk about the ups and downs of their careers in Hollywood. If you've hit a slump, this film will help you get your head on straight. Stream it off of Netflix as I did or, if you can find one, buy a copy on DVD. Why is it so good and so useful?  Because it's about the struggle to succeed.  Human beings like stories about struggle.  That's why star autobiographies are often so inspirational and a treasure trove of good advice; they tell us how hard and long the road can be, and that it's still possible to survive and succeed.  Now if they'd just follow up with That Gal....Who was in That Thing ....  #KathrynBrowning #ThatGuyWhoWasInThatThing

--> Slowly easing back into the saddle after 3 months of near total focus on home repair and remodeling. Getting the manse in shape for an eventual (sooner than later, I hope) move to Los Angeles and, yes, it’s a nightmare. Fortunately, the activity has moved to the exterior, so I don’t have to spend my days wiping drywall dust off the furniture (plates, food, pets, etc.). Came up for air in time to book a speaking role on a national TV series. I had two scenes in this same show last year only to lose them to editing and rewrites. (Bah!) It’s one of the hazards of acting. You struggle to get into a hit show, get all excited when you do, and then have your hopes dashed. Losing the whole scene isn’t the worst-case scenario, however. Some of my actor friends have landed speaking roles and then had just their lines cut. That means their character is reduced to "featured background" and they can’t get a different role on that same show for years. I must say though...