I had the fortunate experience recently to be a part of the cast in the feature film Serial Daters Anonymous, written and directed by Christopher Carson Emmons, starring Louise Linton, Sam Page and Scotty Dickert, and filmed in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
It always amazes me whenever I watch a movie, or simply see a trailer for a film, that what we see and hear is this incredible story and music that we get lost in and in some way, relate to or become a part of that story. What we don't see and hear are the incredible number of people and man/women hours that go into that story and music. We obviously don't go to or rent movies to read the credits, but to actually experience the making of a film is pretty incredible in and of itself.
I have yet to work on a film project where the experience with the cast and crew was anything less than exciting, fun and rewarding. My time on Serial Daters Anonymous was every bit of that experience. What the everyday film viewer does not see are the committed, tireless efforts of those same cast and crew members who bring together hundreds of moments - made of pre-production writing and planning, location scouting, equipment set ups and take downs, rehearsals, make-up, actual filming and scene takes, travel, food arrangements, music composition and arrangement, editing, and the list can go on and on. All of that to give the viewer an experience of their own, that lasts for an hour or so.
What I've learned as one of the most valuable lessons on every film I have been a part of, is to live and practice the Golden Rule - treat others as you want to be treated. I think it's valuable for a number of reasons. First and foremost it's just the right thing to do. Obviously kindness and respect are at the forefront of that. Secondly, when you start out in this business you pay your dues. You may be an actor who is simply an extra, the guy or gal in the background reading a magazine. Or you may be the production assistant who grabs or runs for whatever the director or producer needs at that very moment. Regardless of that minor job or role, how you interact with those in the production can greatly determine your fate in future opportunities. A producer, director, cast or crew member will remember your effort, your attitude and your way of dealing with them that very often leads to your next big opportunity or sadly, your next long wait to be recommended. I also believe that everyone inherently wants to be respected and appreciated. It doesn't matter whether you are the executive producer, the star actor or actress, an extra or the production assistant running for a bottle of water, people want to feel respected and feel important to the success of the project. We can apply this to life anywhere we are.
I'm putting a lot of value into this golden rule, because I have been 'there' on the bottom rung of the film ladder. Humbly speaking I have always tried to give ample thanks to all that I work with, for their help, guidance, for their advice and efforts, that in the end make my experiences positive. I always tell people who ask me about my career, that most well known actors and actresses are known also as A-List actors. I explain that I'm starting as a Z-List actor and am working my way up the alphabet to become a better actor in time.
What was eye-opening to me was my experience on the Serial Daters Anonymous set. From director Christopher Carson Emmons to the very last, but important production assistant, the crew of the film were down to earth, fun, friendly and passionate about what they were doing. You felt as though you were part of a family and there was a genuine respect for everyone.
As I mentioned, I also had the privilege of working with the Los Angeles - Hollywood based actors Louise Linton, Sam Page and Scotty Dickert. Again, what absolutely amazed me was the humble, genuine kindness they expressed to each and every cast and crew member. There is always down time on a set and I was fortunate to have the opportunity to talk candidly with each of these very talented and friendly people. They too came from humble beginnings to get to where they are successfully today. From Sam Page's 15-plus years, Louise Linton's 10-plus years and Scotty Dickert's 6-plus years in the industry, they too started at the bottom rung of the professional film ladder and patiently, respectfully made their way to the successes they are having now. Not only in my conversations with them, but listening politely to questions and advice others would ask, the same three individuals were so willing to share their stories, their advice and simple, genuine conversation. What I felt was a perfect example of - the golden rule.
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