Expert: Phil Nemy - 1/19/2011

Question
Hello,

I live in Baltimore, MD, and I am trying to gain more experience with film. I have a strong passion to become a film actress, but most of the time I feel stuck. I'm 18 years old, so I suppose that the age isn't as much of an issue anymore, but it seems that no one would be willing to take a chance on a inexperienced person. I have tried to get a talent manager several times in the past years, but it didn't work. I got rejected. I have done two auditions, and I've been an extra. I loved the experience, but I want to keep going! I haven't been to an audition in over a month- it is incredibly frustrating. I check for audition notices, and I look on the Maryland Film Hotline, but how long will I have to endure this? How long until I can finally move to the next level? I am so ready for it. I just wish that I could meet the right person. Someone that could help guide me. I really want to experience more, so that I can become a better actress with time.

Thank you

Answer
Monique,

Thanks for writing. If you want to become a better actress, as you've said in your note, then you need training. You should be looking to enroll in the best actor's training program you can be accepted to. Schools like Carnegie Mellon, Julliard, NYU, NC School for the Arts, Bradeis U., SMU, Univ of Wash. at Seattle and UCLA have some of the better actor's training programs around.

As far as "how long will have to endure this?" You may have to endure it your whole life. I know actors who I believe are incredibly talented, gifted if you will, who have been pursuing stardom for over 30 years and it has not happened for them yet. The chances of you EVER being a star are so incredibly remote, you'd have better luck betting on who you think the next Kentucky Derby winner will be. Unfortunately, in film and TV, when it comes to actors, it isn't so much about talent as it is having a great agent and being in the right place at the right time. AND a lot of luck! You'll help your chances by being in Los Angeles where 95% of all television and film is cast.

Hope this helps. Good luck!

Phil