Abel Brainz Digest, Vol. 4 - May 30, 2023
May is over?
Already??? Ok, ok, one more day, but still.
wow.
This newsletter is a week older, and here I am staying consistent. The secret? I'm starting to write/draft these when I get the notion. I'm slowly getting more comfortable writing when it moves me and not needing to have everything be perfect.
I celebrated and every year there is soooo much reminiscing and looking forward. I am a classic overthinker so sometimes I get in fun/stressful modes of wondering about that one decision...
before YOU go down that hole, let's look at this stuff:
I Can't Believe I Forgot!
I have been giving you a slough of suggestions and links and I forgot to mention two very important and influential things in my creative life:
Coming to America. The Eddie Murphy classic. Eddie Murphy revolutionized acting for black actors. Don't take my word for it, listen to Chris Rock.
I quote this movie often and it's such a huge part of my life and such a comedic influence that I was devastated about the sequel, Coming 2 America. I don't really want to talk about it here, but if you want to chat in person, or even hear how it could have been much improved, get at me.
The Power of Now. It's a book by Eckhart Tolle who is on the most recent Kendrick Lamar album. The Power of Now really spoke to me and helped my process as an actor, but mostly helped me navigate this career and the mental gymnastics it sometimes takes to be an artist.
Wait! Make it three!
Looney Tunes. Looney. Tunes.
These cartoons are the absolute end all be all of comedy for me. Anything you want to learn about timing, delivery, and references, go back and watch these 7 minute gems. There are absolutely a few problematic episodes and characters and sooo many more that are wholesome good fun. They were basically Pixar before Pixar. There is such an honesty and purity to them, they actually still hold up some 70 years later.
Speaking of fun "old" stuff, once in a while I'll go back and watch Who's on First? It is still unrivaled. If you decide to keep searching, you'll notice there are a couple of different versions. Slight details change - pace, delivery, reaction- but it's basically the same. it inspired many, and a version is even in Purple Rain. (The movie, not the album.)
Alright. I think that's enough to digest this time. Any questions? Hit me up!
Forward this to anyone who might like it, and if you want to catch up on the past issues, click here.
Thanks for reading!
-Abel