Expert: Taylor Sheppard - 7/21/2008

Question
Hi Taylor
I am 30 yrs old with 6-7 yrs experience in the field in India.I started my career with many commercials,fashion modeling,few indian music videos,and now focus on TV soap operas since 3-4 yrs.Acting is my passion.I want to explore possibilities in the US. I also need change as I realize my passion for acting is getting stifled with some problems with getting roles I would like and the professional problems of the industry.To name a few-no money,no professionalism,politics...Please help.I am open to suggestions including going to school.My only concern is having to spend too much money to get started.Moreover I would like to avoid starting all over if I could.I speak good English and do not have a very pronounced Indian accent.If you could give me names of some agents,access to some independant films to make some money if that is the right way to start based on your expertise.I am ready to do anything it takes to make the move to the US and add more to my resume.I do not know if VISAS are even given for such jobs.Please advice.
Thank you


Answer
Hi Nik,

It certainly sounds like you are earnest in your desire to succeed!

Work visas are obtained regularly for foreign-based actors. My understanding of the Indian film business is that it booming, but that it is a lot like the US film business from the early days -that it is a tight community that is prone to using a limited number of stars, and is hard to break into.
The hardest part I see would be leaving home to come here. No doubt, you realize that you'd be working hard at a normal job while trying to break into the business here. It isn't easy to juggle paying bills with classes and acting, but it can be done. The movie industry is a bit slow just now, due to our economy. In years gone by one could count on several big movies to premier each summer, but now we have had only one big blockbuster (Batman)come out! However, things change, and you don't want to wait for those changes before putting your plan into motion, as time waits for no one...as the famous saying goes. If you wait, you may wait your whole life.
I always recommend taking classes because it helps you develop contacts: other actors that may know things you need to know, and teachers often know people who ask for recommendations. One of my teachers here would always be approached by the University film department for actors who would work for free or cheaply. Some of theses aspiring directors are well known in the business now!

Best,

Taylor