feeling a bit unmotivated & overwhelmed. I’ve tried actor’s access but no luck. then I see the new AI actress, which is also disappointing. I usually look up movie actors as I watch a movie to get more insight on them, to know most of them were handed these roles through their parents, I just feel like I’m at a dead end. Just hard to get out there.
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Hi Jessica! You’re in the right place here at Stage 32! The community is so warm and welcoming. There’s many opportunities for you yet to come! It’s always darkest before the dawn. Keep plugging away. Create your own content! It’s how actors have to go forward these days! Keep in touch! Sending warm hugs!
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Maybe split your focus, start screenwriting. Why not? Keeps the creative juices flowing.
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I feel that way sometimes, Jessica Putnam. What helps me is stop looking at the doom and gloom of the industry and focus on my craft, network, and pitch my projects instead.
Keep checking Stage 32's Job Board for acting roles and voice acting roles.
And Stage 32's next Community Open House is Dec 29th (www.stage32.com/education/products/stage-32-s-december-community-open-ho...). It's free to attend. It'll help you make connections.
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Jessica Putnam Been there, especially during the slow season of the end of year, and there are lots of changes happening in production houses, streamers, lots of "behind the scene" business stuff clogging up casting and green lighting projects. But, you are not alone, and what I do when this happens, is just stop. Breath, and maybe let out whatever emotion you are feeling, let out the density, do a physical activity, get up early and welcome the sun, and feel your own energy flowing through you. You are much more than AA, casting stuff, and the boxes we all feel we have to tick on and on as actors. And you have all of us here, cheering you on. And trust me, I know exactly what you are talking about.
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Maurice Vaughan is it online? I would love to attend
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Rutger Oosterhoff I have never wrote a screen write before. could you give me some pointers?
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You're welcome, Jessica Putnam. Yes, it's online.
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... Sure, Jssica, I'll come back to you tomorrow, but I'm faaaarrrr from a pro, but sure, I can give you some pointers, will make a small , 'basic' list. :)
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HI Jessica Putnam I know what it is like to feel discouraged. You are doing the right thing, reaching out, making connections. Keep at it. I also encourage you to check out today's blog as it speaks to the very thing you are talking about. Ways to hone your craft when you are in a down slope.
https://www.stage32.com/blog/a-practical-guide-for-actors-tips-advice-ev...
Now is a good time to check out the many classes in the education tab. There are all kinds of things skills and tips to help you get over the hump so to speak. I would be exam what you are telling yourself about your acting career. Saying things like, "It is just so hard to get out there." or "They only got cast because they are a nepo baby." or "I don't know anyone." Will make it so. Try to reframe your beliefs. "Getting auditions is easy." "Everyone wants to hire me." "I have so many opportunities." "I am a successful working actress." Being positive will put in the right frame of mind and help keep the energy and motivation up. It is ok to feel frustrated, but remember emotions only last 90 seconds. So feel the feeling, then move on. Holding on to the negative energy is dangerous to the mental health. And breathe and go for a walk like Juliana Philippi said!
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Hi jesssica putnam I understand how you feel. The journey can be tough, especially when things don’t work out the way we hope.
But you’re not alone — many of us here are fighting for our dream every day.
What matters is that you’re still trying, still learning, still showing up. That already makes you stronger than you think.
Wishing you strength and motivation — keep going! We’re all here to support each other.
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One of my favourite radio dramas to listen to is The Charles Paris series, starring Bill Nighy. He plays an often out of work aging actor who has a penchant for solving mysteries. The character talks a lot about what life is like to be an actor and about the business. The series can be found on Archive.org or on YouTube. It’s worth a listen.
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Hi Jessica,
Sorry for the late response.
Ten Tips (out of a million) to Write a Better Screenplay:
https://blog.celtx.com/screenwriting-tips/
Start with a Solid Outline
Know Your (lead) Characters
Use a Script Writing Software (free Writer Duet version,?)
Re-Write Your Script
Raise the Stakes
Avoid Common Cliches
Read Other Screenplays!!!!!!!
Finish Your Script
Write Visually
Enjoy the Process
Envision the above first before you check the link.
Bonus tips:
(1) Every scfne starts with a scene heade, study thgm as hell ( aldi check The Hollywoid Standard.
Qua format, avoid screenplay transitions like "CUT TO", "DISSOLVE TO" as less as possible, only use them if they really add something to the story.
Buy books on screenwriting
(1) The Hollywood Standard (formatting screenplay)
(2) Save the cat (story structure)
(3) Your screenplay sucks (100 ways to make it betrer)
Swap screenplays and practice what you learned by studying.
Best, Rutger
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Take breaks and rest when you need it and keep showing up for you!
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Hi Jessica. I'm in a bit of a rut, too these days. I've felt ostracized from my open mic community and I'm planning to edit/rewrite my own material and hope to put on a comedy show this summer. Maybe you could write your own play and make your own movie or put on a theatrical production at your local theater?