In the glamorous world of movie-making, countless individuals work behind the scenes to ensure that every scene is shot perfectly. One such crucial role is that of a stand-in. But what is a stand-in actor in film production? Is it an understudy? Are they like body doubles or perhaps a stunt double? Read on for a full explanation of these unsung members of the crew. Continue reading What is a Stand-In Actor — Job Description Explained
I n every great story told on the big screen, there's a character whose journey captivates us. This character, typically portrayed by the lead actor, becomes the focal point of the narrative, drawing us into their world. The lead actor is our anchor within the world of a story. Through their journey, we experience various aspects of the human condition — the lifeblood of what draws us to stories in the first place. Continue reading What is a Lead Actor — Definition and Iconic Examples
I magine being given a script, with characters you've never met, in a world you're unfamiliar with, and only minutes to prepare before you're expected to bring it all to life. Welcome to the world of 'cold reading' in acting. In this post, we're going to run through some tips and tricks for actors to handle these impromptu and probably stressful moments. Continue reading What is a Cold Reading — Audition and Acting Tips
One of the most overlooked, but incredibly important talent roles is that of the bit part. Many are familiar with the role of the extra and the role of a lead actor. But a bit part falls somewhere in between. They do not entirely steal the show, but they do not fall into the background. What is a bit part? And how has the role of a bit part allowed some cinema’s most iconic actors to breakthrough? Let’s take a look at the bit part. Continue reading What is a Bit Part in Film — Small Parts, Big Impressions
So, you want to become a voice actor? Like with any career in the entertainment industry, becoming a professional voice actor can be difficult to attain but deeply rewarding to accomplish. There are many different career paths one can take to begin earning a living as a voice actor. Read on to learn how to become a voice actor in five steps.Continue reading How to Become a Voice Actor — 5 Essential Steps
The world of acting is a varied one, with plenty of opportunities for someone to show up on a screen somewhere. That can include major roles, bit parts, cameos, extras, or walk-ons. What is a walk-on role, you ask? It might get bundled in with extras, but it’s not exactly the same thing. We’ll go over what a walk-on role is, some examples, and how you might go about getting one.Continue reading What is a Walk-on Role — Background Support Roles Explained
Finding a good acting agency can be a major step in moving forward with your career. An agent can connect you with opportunities and auditions, advise on contract negotiations, and provide a helpful mentorship role as you navigate your career. But how do you find an agent? In this post, we’ll break down the best acting agencies for beginners to professionals in Hollywood today, from the Big 4 high profile best acting agencies to smaller boutique firms for working actors. We’ll also give you an idea of what agents looking for actors want to see if you do manage to…
How does a performer, showrunner, director, or writer find an agent? Talent agents connect their clients with auditions, arrange meetings, help negotiate contracts, and they can provide a helpful mentor role for navigating a career in the entertainment industry. Artists tend to think of the “Big 4,” high profile movie talent agencies, but it is possible to find a smaller top talent agency that might be a better fit for where you are in your career. There are many things you can do before you ever connect with an agent to be as ready as possible when it is time…
In World War II’s aftermath, business leaders felt threatened by the shifting landscape of the labor movement. Industries struggled, and workers spoke up—even the film industry is currently impacted by these demands for systemic change. When these workers spoke up, though, lawmakers felt the pressure to respond. As with any major historical movement, it’s not such a simple exchange; that’s where the Taft-Hartley Act of 1947 shifts the landscape even more. But exactly what is the Taft-Hartley Act? Keep reading to see how you and your production work under its influence. Continue reading What is the Taft-Hartley Act & What Producers…
What is a character actor? The term has the potential to be confusing for two reasons. First: there are conflicting definitions for ‘character actor.’ Second: all actors are technically playing characters whenever they appear on screen, so it would be natural to assume that all actors are character actors. In this post we will clear up any confusion over the label, provide a comprehensive definition, and explore the role of character actors in film.Continue reading What is a Character Actor — The Art of the Supporting Role
