Anything Goes : Need advice. thanks :) by Amber Sikes

Hi Amber! What area are you in?

Do you have a good agent?

Just read the area you're in. There's probably more work in the Manhattan area than Buffalo. Of course, California is the ideal place. You could get yourself an agent and start out by modeling, then commercials and then acting roles for student films. Usually doesn't pay but it will build up your resume.

Elizabeth, unfortunately I don't even have an agent. No one will accept me for representation because of my resume. Thank you for your help. I agree about the modeling. I really need an agent who accepts beginners. So I can work my way up. California is the ideal place but it is so huge I feel like I should make a name for myself in a smaller city and then go there after.

Thanks so much :)

Amber, My advice is to Audition! Audition! Audition! Try getting into Student Films. They dont pay, but they do provide entry level opportunities to build a Reel and Resume. My students here in So-Cal are ALWAYS being cast in Student Films at USC, UCLA, and others. Dont be afraid to audition for student films at your local community college.

..... Also look into Industrial Films. (Corporate Training Videos) The pay ranges from low non-union pay to Union Wages.

How much training have you had as an actress? Stage? Film? Television? Green Screen? Identify what your interests are. I strongly suggest that you look into Stagecraft. Historically, The Vast Majority of the Worlds Finest Actors, come from the Stage! (...Think about that)

When all else fails, invest in yourself. I'm currently a Screenwriter, who has a lot of writing under my belt but only 2 projects filmed so far. They are both short films. I believe I have a lot of potential, but I don't expect to have prestigious opportunities with zero works to my name, or now, even with two works. It just doesn't happen. I am still an unknown. But if you believe you have a vision, why not invest in having your project made...If you want to act in it, then hire a director. If you want certain actors, then perhaps you can produce or direct yourself. Create your own project---> Get them into film festivals---> Get your name out there. If you can't find a job, make one. Perhaps you can make little short films between yourself and other actors, so you can build a resume. You can even write them yourself, which will give you additional experience writing, which is always good for your resume. Good luck :).

audition for anything legit, student films are usually well crewed, well equipped and always finsihed cuz it's school, build a demo reel off that and you're off to the races.

Amber, you're lucky to be living in a time where actors can self-submit to projects now. I'm not sure what kind of online casting services you have in your part of the country -- I would suggest subscribing to BackStage. They often have projects listed in different regions than CA and NY. At this stage, you don't need an agent and shouldn't worry about trying to get one. Student films are a great way to get work on a set, and if a big movie or TV show comes to your town, you can often get some extra work, which will give you real life on-set experience.

Alle Segretti, I was just asking a question and wanted feedback and advice from it. That is all. Nothing major so I appreciate your feedback. However, in my opinion, nothing you said to me was brutal in that comment. I have heard and read worst things than that so I just continue to brush my shoulders off. I am going to continue to try and get into local films and keep trying to build my resume up, regardless. Everything you said to me was nice and truthful. However, if I change my mind about wanting to get in the entertainment business after all the factual information I just received from you, then that means that I never wanted this dream bad enough from the beginning and I do. No one can take this dream from me. So I will do WHATEVER I can to get my name out there. Thanks! Appreciate your wisdom :)

Everett Davis. I have taken an intro to theater course and an acting course. That is all with that. I was also casted as a background extra for a Universal Pictures film "The Best Man Holiday" that came to my area.

Everett I also have had a portion of experience in front of Green Screen for 2 commercials and 1 tomorrow. It's for a class final project!