Being Prepared

How many of us go through life just flowing the with currents. We say, "whatever" or " if it was meant to be it will be". While a great sentiment, in this business they really are just excuses. Face it, it you are not ready when opportunity arrives, then you probably just added time to your 'making it'.

I can hear you now. "You are being too tough" or "You can't control outcomes". I would say phooey on that.

Let's start with "You are being too tough". Come on! Do you want to succeed or not? Life is constantly offering you chances. Do you take them, or do you even see them? Say you are in line at the coffee shop. You are in your own little world, not even aware of what is around you. There are many chances to connect with people. It helps with what you know, but it really helps with who you know. I am not saying to connect with people just to use them, but I am saying that when you connect with others it moves you closer to your goal. You never know when the next person you meet is the one who, in there own way, helps you to take the next step in the direction you are trying to get to. So no, I am not being too 'tough'.

Moving on to "You can't control outcomes." Please, I know you cannot control others, but you can control the outcome. The outcome is how you perceive it. If you think you have failed, then you haven't learned a thing. Failure is simply the next step to success. Let's use the audition process as an example. You prepared, gave a terrific audition, but did not get the part. Did you fail. NO! You didn't get the part, but if you were prepared you have made additional contacts, learned what works or doesn't work in certain situations. You may even have impressed the auditioners so much they will remember you and maybe call you for something else. The key is to control how you see the events. Learn every chance you get.

So always be prepared. Be prepared to meet and connect with people. Enjoy the process of learning to get from here to there. When you walk out, plan to make an impression. I have found one of the best ways in life to get to where I want to go, is head in that direction and be prepared for the opportunities that present themselves along the way.

Following Direction on Set

I recently met with my friend Jack. During the course of our conversation we began talking about film. He had the 'good' fortune to be on the set while they were filming one of his scripts. As we spoke the conversation revolved around actor behavior while on set. We both have had and heard stories that would make you wonder how a person was ever cast. The following story I think is very telling: Read on

The director was filming a scene in which an extra with a small speaking part was not doing particularly well. It seems he kept over acting and not listening to the director. This went on for around five takes. After each take the director would give the actor his direction and they would shoot again. Finally the director turned to some of the crew. He asked "Did I give this actor direction?" The answer was Yes. The next question was "Did this actor do as he was directed?" The answer was No. The director then proceeded to inform the 'extra' to accompany the A.D. and collect his time. The 'extra' then proceeded to make a scene. He was ultimately escorted from the set.

I wonder if that actor learned his lesson or even work after that. I am not saying that directors are always correct, but if you are given direction or asked to do a scene a certain way, by all means DO IT! If you have something you think may add, express your idea if appropriate, but the bottom line is, directors are there to direct. DO YOU JOB and follow directions.