Expert: Phil Nemy - 5/14/2006

Question
Hi Phil
How are you my name is Brandon and first of all thank you for reading this email. Recently i gave up my job as a chef to venture into another career i had my mind set on graphic design because i have a natural talent for imagination and creativity so much so that i stumbled on to the idea of becomming an actor.
Now this wasnt a spare of the moment thing it is something i have dreamed of for quite sometime even so that in my mind i replay scenes from movies im my head with me as the leading man or even a supporting role like the goofy friend to the movies hero and i find myself doing this so often that it could be called an unhealthy addiction (Ha Ha Ha) but my question is could this be my true calling i mean everyone has dreams of acting along side there favorite actor or actress and we all imagine the glamour but i feel i can really summon the courage to give it a go.
In the town i live in we have drama school and i feel i should give it a go but it would be to small to get my hopes up on something big but it could just be the start i need and to something bigger my other concern is a few years ago i was in a car accident and did some damage to my back and i was wondering on what your view is on casters, producers and so would look at someone who might not be able to do some physical things such as running and jumping i also walk with a slight limp but is not to much of a problem but i would like to add that i came out of this accident head held high and went back to Cheffing which is a challenging and stressful job and i feel that this says something about my determination and cunningness and that maybe i might have a few qualities that might sparkle in the right peoples eyes. That is my question to you and thank you once again for your time i am currently 21 years old and live in australia and any help or information you have would be appreciative.
Thank You kindly Brandon Ball
PS Creative critisism welcome Ha Ha  

Answer
Brandon,

Thanks for writing. So you've decided upon a different career path? And the path you want is acting?Good for you! To answer your first question, could this be your true calling? I have no idea. I don't know you. Only YOU can say if this is your true calling.

As far as physical handicaps, yes, they will limit your casting opportunities. If there is physical action required in a role, and you can't perform the action, then you won't get cast. Think of it this way - how many films or TV shows have you seen with physically handicapped actors cast in key roles? Probably not many.

I admire your determination, and I say, if this is what your heart is leading you to do, then go for it. You can always switch careers in a few years if your acting career hasn't taken off.

Good luck!

Phil