Abel Brainz Digest, Vol. 6 - June 13, 2023
Hey all!
We got a long one here.
When we last left our heroes, SAG was about to enter negotiations, the DGA agreed to terms with the AMTMNTAMPM. It's an increase in pay and the DGA is getting some flak, but man, I don't even have an opinion.
Hey! Check out this cool stuff!
The Hollywood Reporter 2023 Roundtables are out, and so far, they're great! Not because they repeat a lot about what we talk about in class, but because we get to hear from actors about all sorts of things. From process, to dealing with fans, to impressions, the roundtables are nothing but encouraging and inspiring.
One of my favorite questions in class is, "How did that feel?" I still feel it is a vital approach to acting and improv. Even Bruce Lee agrees! That's from Enter the Dragon and what he has to say to his student in that scene is incredibly relevant, but not just for kung fu, improv, or acting. If you haven't seen the 30 for 30 documentary Be Water, I highly recommend it. (The whole 30 for 30 series is streaming on Hulu)
I subscribe to the age old adage that actors want to be musicians and musicians want to be actors. Music is a HUGE part of my life and it helps me through a lot. Here's a playlist when I need a little pick me up.
Speaking of music, this video is delightful and put me on to Maggie Rogers. I'm not sure what's more entertaining, the conversation she has with Pharell or his reactions to her song. They even reflect a little bit in this video.
I had another interesting career moment on Thursday. Some brief backstory: We'll call my acquaintance "Pal." Pal had been asking me for advice about filming in Atlanta this Summer - mainly who to hit up for casting in the South East. I even read for a part in the feature he had written and didn't hear anything. Fast forward to Thursday and I get a text from Pal. Mind you, I haven't heard from Pal since before I sent him a self-tape. The text asks if I can do a quick walk-on part, non-speaking, basically an extra. He asked me if I was available at 4pm. The text was sent at 11 AM.
I was pretty surprised with the audacity, to be honest. Pal not only contacted me on the day of the shoot, he had already asked me for help AND to read for the movie.
As much as I wanted to text him an, "aww get outta here!!" I responded that I wasn't available and wished him the best of luck.
Other than being a total dick, this is one of "those" moments where there is no "wrong" way to handle it. Not responding, responding a little more directly, or even showing up to the shoot were other ways I could have responded.
I feel excellent about my choice. That felt pretty good. It feels good to be in a place where my choices are mostly positive. Here's to mostly positive choices! Until next week.
-Abel