Film and Television Acting
Careers in film and television are among the most highly prized in the acting profession. Being both high-profile and lucrative, actors jump at the chance to work in either medium. However, becoming an industry player is much more complicated than simply landing a guest spot on Entourage or Rescue Me.
First, actors often need to be members of either SAG or AFTRA, which is not easy. (Both unions have specific rules governing membership; see their websites for details.) Also, having an casting agent and/or manager is extremely helpful, since most major TV shows and films are cast almost exclusively through casting agents, even for smaller parts.
Not having a casting agent doesn't mean you can't get roles, though. It just means you might need to do a little extra work. (Literally.)
Playing a background actor is a time-honored way of starting your acting career. However, a misconception exists that you should draw attention to yourself. That's incorrect. Show-offs don't get discovered — in most cases, they get fired. Casting directors want someone who's willing to work hard, not a diva. Be punctual, act professionally and maintain a cheerful attitude. CDs are more likely to give acting work opportunity to someone who makes their job easier.
Further, broaden your sights. Don't focus solely on getting work from the big networks and film studios. Thanks to cable, many channels produce original programming. For every spot on an NBC sitcom, a dozen spots are available for shows and movies made by Comedy Central, Sci-Fi, Lifetime, FX — even TCM. Roles are also plentiful in TV commercials production, industrials, and voiceovers — both for national and regional spots. In addition, a few hundred independent films are produced each year, all of which need talented actors for auditions.
Lastly, think beyond being the lead character. In scenes with Russell Crowe or Meryl Streep are dozens of other actors. While it doesn't sound as sexy, someone needs to play the foul-mouthed detective, the witness to the homicide, the plucky sister — roles integral to the story. Many actors have long and profitable entertainment careers playing smaller parts on film and TV: They're called character actors.
Occasionally, though, even bit players elevate to movie-star status. Sigourney Weaver's first film role was playing Woody Allen's date at the end of Annie Hall, a role in which she is seen from a distance for barely three seconds. Two years later she starred in Alien.
LINKS
Chance Encounters
Think you can show up in L.A. and immediately 'be discovered' Think again.
Getting In
To most newcomers, Hollywood looks like a closed set with a locked gate. The truth: There's no one way in, but instead many winding paths to success.
Casting Qs: Be You
CD Mark Teschner advises actors not to try to be what he's looking for, just be what they are.
Background Check
What are the good, bad, and ugly facts about extra work?
Shooting For Success
An actor's guide to student filmmaking.
Screen Actors Guild
SAG's website.
American Federation of Television and Radio Artists
AFTRA's website.
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