The Alaskan Adventure - Volume 2 - Arrival

Arrival

The day finally arrived. After two days of delays due to mechanical issues with the first plane in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and weather issues to the west of Anchorage, Alaska, I finally made it to my destination, Mountain Village, Alaska.

I spent last night in a town called Bethel, where heavy rains grounded flights, and left me with no choice but to find a place to stay. I would’ve slept in the airport, however they close after the final flight for the day comes in. There was only one place with rooms left in the entire town, and I found one in the oasis known as the Hawaiian Inn.  Surprisingly, it was nothing like Hawaii. I’m not sure why, but the roads my cab driver took to get there, left me with a horrible case of hemorrhoids. Just kidding, but I think you get the picture. Unfortunately, not one person I spoke to since I’ve been in Alaska, had anything positive to say about Bethel. Sorry Bethel, but I have to agree with everyone else.

When I arrived, the tiny little manager man was very friendly and at least made me feel good about being there. I asked him if there were any place to get something to eat and he told me there was an attached restaurant. He was very honest and said that I could get a hamburger for $25 and a soda for $5. After seeing that I was a little discouraged at the $25 hamburger and passed politely, he offered me a sweet deal on two bags of Doritos and two Pepsis, normally all $2 each. I was going to eat like a king. Once you took a left or a right out of the main lobby, the rooms were in a very close, dormitory arrangement. The rooms were humble, with linoleum floors and the basic necessities that you would need for sleeping and bathroom duties. I didn’t mind at all. After sitting for hours upon hours the last two days at airports, a hard floor, concrete block and burlap bag would’ve been just fine. Ironically, the bed was unbelievably comfortable and I slept like a rock. The only part that took getting used to, was looking out the window and seeing that it was still light at 11:30 at night. 

I woke refreshed in the morning and was excited to see that my flight was on time, and still projected to depart, despite the fact that it was still pouring outside. I made my way to the front counter to ask my friendly, little manager  if I could have another bag of Doritos and soda to satisfy my palate before leaving for the airport. I was pleasantly surprised, when he said, “No, no, no. I have a special breakfast down the hall. You go get some food in your stomach.” So he sent me down the hall for a complimentary breakfast that he had set up for other guests who payed extra. I was extremely grateful and thanked him emphatically for everything. I just knew there had to be some good things coming today.

I arrived at the airport with plenty of time to spare, and again was welcomed by the news that the flight was on time and going to depart Bethel. I had a couple more hours of thinking time, which added to the plethora of other thinking time that I had in the past couple of days while sitting in the airports.  You know, just pondering my life and thinking about what I’m going to do for the next 50 years. Just like we all do, right?! I came out of the deep thought to hear music to my ears, “Flight 3445, to Mountain Village, now boarding.” So myself and the other five passengers who could fit on the small plane boarded and took off to Mountain Village.

I have to be honest, I get very, very nervous when flying, but that was exacerbated today when I was aboard the smaller airplane. The loud propeller and more noticeable rocking back-and-forth in the wings, made me put every ounce of confidence I had into my pilots that they have done this countless times and that I didn’t have to worry. The first half hour of the flight was in complete cloud cover so I read a book to take my mind off any worry. However that all stopped, when the scenery on the way to the village came clear. It was absolutely breathtaking. I cannot even begin to describe the color of the green that made up the landscape down below. Beautiful trees, bushes intermixed with the flowing tributaries of the Yukon River made it absolutely beautiful. The mountains you could see were smaller, but still added a incredible beauty to what you could see out the window. Every bit of nervousness that I had flying in the small plane, peeled away when I looked outside. It was really amazing. I was so excited when the landing strip came into view and we are making our way down toward the village. We landed safely!

Upon arrival I was very happy to see that my new colleague, friend and Principal Tim Sisk, was patiently waiting to drive me the last mile to the village. We had talked on the phone a number of times and got to know each other pretty well.  It was great to finally meet him in person. He was every bit of a nice man that I talked to on the phone. As he helped me with my luggage, I was even more pleasantly surprised to see and find out that he had purchased a large amount of groceries and basic items for me, and my new apartment. I was speechless. 

Tim decided he was going to take me on a tour of the village first that I could get acclimated with our surroundings. It was very eye-opening and humbling. What I want to say, is that so many people 

complain about their life, or how rough they have it, or how minuscule things in their life aren’t  working out...and they need to stop! Just don’t!  Most people just don’t realize how good they have things in their life. I realize that I made the choice to come here, with the hope of doing something great and making a difference in the lives of these kids and their families, but I also realize how important it is to value and appreciate what we have/had when it’s gone.

 As we continue to visit and go slowly through the village in one of the few trucks that were in town, I got to see some pretty neat things. Tim took me down to the Yukon River, where we filled up a large container of spring water that flowed out of the side of the bluff going down to the river. It was some of the clearest, cleanest and best tasting natural water I have ever had. I joked with Tim how it reminded me of the days growing up where we drank out of the backyard hose of my house. We also stopped in the local grocery store, and got used to some of the sticker shock of food compared to back home. Obviously, the fact that everything has to be flown in here causes prices to be a little bit higher. The neat thing about the store visit was, that I got to meet a great number of parents and villagers who had students in the school where I would be teaching. It was a really nice way to get introduced to several families in the village. Everyone was very, very nice and welcoming. My tour with Tim completed at the school, in the central part of the village. The school is made up of kindergarten through 12th grade. It is a very nice school and I was able to have a chance to step into my classroom. I kind of got butterflies and goosebumps, standing back in the classroom for the first time in a long time, imagining my little third-graders coming in for the first day. It felt really good. My day ended with Tim showing me my apartment, which stands 50 yards from the school. No excuses to be late or miss school. Especially since they ‘never’ close school regardless of the weather or any anomalies that may take place.

I’m not going to lie, and I have to be honest, there is a tremendous sense of loneliness that overcame me today. Knowing that I’m here to stay, left my family behind, left my friends and my life behind in Wisconsin, and realizing I’m starting a new life in an unfamiliar place. I’ll be a man, and admit that I’m a little scared, yet equally excited about all the amazing people I am going to meet and experiences that I’m going to have. I making this up one day at a time, staying positive and hopeful. If anything changes, you will be the second to know.

Stay tuned...

The Alaskan Adventure - Volume 1 - Preparation

Preparation

Well I've been talking about my move, my trip, and my adventure for a little over two months now.  It has been exciting to share my newfound discoveries about Mountain Village, the people, it's school, the wildlife and the new experiences I'll be having.

What I haven't shared is the arduous and eye-opening preparation that takes place when you do pick up and move to another state, one where you are flown in on a small plane and essentially start over.  I recently shared this scenario with some friends and family regarding what it is actually like to make a move like this one, possible.

Assuming you don't have a living situation that you will return to, use your imagination and here is what you need to do.  Take all of your large furniture, wall art, knickknacks and miscellaneous items, from every room in your house, upstairs and down, and either put them in storage or sell them.  Now take two suitcases and fill them with everything you think you will need (necessities) for the next 3-4 weeks, and remember that each suitcase cannot weigh more than 50-pounds.  This would be clothes, shoes, toiletries, shower curtains, bedding and any kitchen or personal items you would normally use the most.  Whatever you can't fit into those two 50-pound (or less) suitcases, that you know you will need, you will have to ship at a very lofty price.  That is, considering you're taking a job in the far, western side of Alaska. 

That is what I have been having to figure out for the last two months and more intensely in the last week.  This is especially accurate considering I was procrastinating due to being overwhelmed and new to the process.  If I could actually bring the amount of suitcases you see in the photo above, I would be a very happy traveler, but...ah...no...not going to happen.  Some good news is that I will be able to have a 'shopping' day in Anchorage the second week I am there during inservice and professional development, which will allow me to have an empty suitcase to fill with necessities I couldn't squeeze in back in Wisconsin.

It has been a challenge, but a very welcomed one.  After kneeling down on and squeezing each suitcase with every ounce of energy I have, I am proud to say that both came in under the 50-pound limit.  I do have a few boxes to ship, but am comforted by the fact that what remains are my winter clothes and I have about six or seven weeks to get them there before the cold enters every possible cell in my body.

I have to admit that the most difficult part of preparation is saying goodbye to family and friends.  And you don't really say goodbye, because you know that you'll be returning in some capacity the following summer.  However, my son said it best, "What will be tough Dad, is that I just can't hop in a car and come across town to see you like I can now."  He could...in 2-days and 7-hours, which is how long it takes to get to Anchorage, Alaska from Milwaukee, but not like the short commute we're used to now.  It's even hard not to get emotional as I write this.  If you didn't know this about me already, I am a 'very' emotional guy.  I wear my heart on my sleeve.  I am truly fortunate to have a wonderful and loving family, and an equally amazing group of friends and people who support me, that goes far beyond what I could have ever imagined having.  It's just sad that there isn't enough time to be able to get together with everyone, to have those one-on-one, personal moments to say goodbye. I wish I could.  

Besides missing friends and family, people have asked me what are some things that I’ll miss. In no particular order, I’ll miss sharing my birthday and upcoming holidays with family and friends, movies and popcorn in a theater, hanging out at the Wisconsin State Fair, going out to dinner at many of Milwaukee’s great restaurants, taking walks by Lake Michigan, eating brats fresh off the grill, having an occasional beer with friends, and seeing and listening to great, outdoor music.

The last of my preparation was enjoying a few of my favorite things here in Wisconsin before I hop on the plane August 1st.  Including, but not limited to my list, was taking in a couple Milwaukee Brewers baseball games, going to watch some live bands/music, having a few more bottles of my current favorite beer Spotted Cow, eating some Wisconsin brats/bratwurst, and spending time around some of southern Wisconsin's best lakes. 

I'll be back to you next...as an Alaskan!  

Stay tuned...

Alaskan Adventure

Alaskan Adventure

Have any friends in Alaska? If you don’t...you’ll have one now. I just accepted a 3rd Grade teaching position in Mountain Village, Alaska.  The name of my school is Ignatius Beans. (No kidding…awesome name, right?!) It is on the Yukon River, in the far western part of the state. I will be in one of the ten villages that surround the area, which is home to a Native American, Eskimo tribe known as the Yupik.

In talking with my new principal, they are a wonderful group of people and kids, but who face a great deal of challenges and poverty. It will definitely be a challenge, but an ‘amazing’ opportunity and experience. We are also in what is known as ‘Bush Country’.  It is not connected to any of Alaska’s road network so I will be flown into my village. Everyone gets around by foot, snowmobile, boats or ATV’s. I guess one bonus is that my commute will be short, as my school will be 100-yards from my apartment and I won’t have any excuses for being late for, or missing school.

I will be blogging throughout my time there, so feel free to check in here see what this new adventure is like and how things are going.

Below is a link to a YouTube video that gives some background on the Lower Yukon School District that I will be working for.  It’s 14 minutes long and gives a good snapshot of the school, the kids, the parents and the area.  Check out as much or as little as you like.

 https://www.lysd.org/domain/463

So my bags will be packed and I’ll be hopping on a plane August 1^st. There will be a plethora of unknowns and I’ll have to learn as I go, but I am very, very excited to meet my new, little students, all the new villagers and teachers, and see another beautiful part of our country.

Stay tuned!

2016 - Milwaukee Short Film Festival - Humbled and Honored

2016 - Milwaukee Short Film Festival - Best Actor Award

2016 - Milwaukee Short Film Festival - Best Actor Award 

The 2016 Milwaukee Short Film Festival was the venue for the debut of Closed Mondays, the Marquette University student film, written and directed by Henry Willette.  It was the first ever Marquette student film to be accepted into the Milwaukee Short Festival, a huge honor for any film student.  

The award ceremony that followed the juried films on Saturday brought a humbling and pleasant surprise, in a Best Actor and Best Actress award for Closed Mondays.  A special congratulations to my talented, young co-star Sydney Johnson who received the award for the festival's - Best Actress.  She is a promising young actress and I know she is going to have a bright and successful future ahead of her.

I was very humbled and appreciative to have received the award for best actor. There were so many, very talented actors and actresses who gave incredible performances and deserve praise and recognition as well. It is important to know, that these awards are never possible unless you have quality writing, and a great director, cast and crew behind you.

I am extremely grateful to Henry Willette for taking a chance on me and giving me a wonderful role to play. Henry did an amazing job directing the film and it was beautifully shot. As mentioned above, equal kudos for being the first Marquette University student film to ever make the Milwaukee Short Film Festival.

A special thanks also to my co-stars Sydney Johnson, Anieya Jasline Walkerand Louis Sather who did a great job and helped bring the story to life. Also special thanks to Ross Bigley who does an outstanding job every year behind the scenes, bringing so many people together to make the film festival possible, and enjoyable for countless others.

And most importantly, to the special people in my life - Elizabeth Andersen, Seth Nichols, Emma Andersen, Alex Andersen and my family (and friends) - who are so supportive and encouraging of the 'wild ride' of acting and writing that I love doing everyday.

'Closed Mondays': First Marquette Film to Play At Milwaukee Short Film Festival

(Rereleased with permission from Rebecca Carballo - Assistant News Editor - Marquettewire.org)

September 6, 2016

Rebecca Carballo - Assistant News Editor

“Closed Mondays” will be the first short film produced by Marquette students to play at the Milwaukee Short Film Festival Sept. 10.

The film was created by Marquette alumni Henry Willette, Peter Basch, Reese Heinzinger, Jack Glowinski and Mike Cianciolo for their senior capstone class last fall.

The festival receives about 500 submissions, including many international films. About 50 are selected, according to festival director Ross Bigley.

Leading actor Matt Nichols said it was a great accomplishment that the students made it into the festival.

“The fact (Willette) got in the Milwaukee Short Film Festival as a student speaks volumes,” Nichols said. “It’s very well-respected and well-known.”

Nichols said he is “grateful and humbled” to be part of the production. He added that he had not encountered a script like “Closed Mondays” before.

“When I first read that script I was really drawn to it,” Nichols said. “It’s a unique story.”

The film takes place in the Haggerty Museum of Art. A little girl befriends a lonely guard, played by Nichols, and they bond over their shared love of art. The two save the museum from its impending closing.

Willette wrote and directed the film. About twenty students pitched their script to the class and voted on which they liked the best. Willette’s script was one of five chosen.

According to Bigley, the strong female leading role was one of the reasons “Closed Mondays” was a contender for the film festival.

This year the Milwaukee Short Film Festival saw many submissions from young, female filmmakers. Bigley said many of the films were made by women or had a female protagonist.

Bigley said he was impressed with the submission from Willette and his crew.

“I think ‘Closed Mondays’ is one of our strongest films,” Bigley said. “It was solidly directed and beautifully shot.”

Willette said the team strove to make the film as professional as possible. To achieve this goal, the group had a casting call for professional actors and carefully chose their shooting location.

“We didn’t want it to look like a student film,” Willette said. “We shot in the Haggerty to give the film a high production value.”

Assistant professor Joe Brown, who taught the class, said he wanted the project to emulate an actual Hollywood movie, with each student in a specific role.

“At the student level you tend to want to do it all, it’s your baby, but in an actual Hollywood movie the roles are very defined,” Brown said.

Although Willette had plenty of camera experience, he had to step back from that work and take on the director’s position.

Willette “was one of the top creative people in digital media in the last few years,” Brown said.  “He was good with the camera, storytelling, editing and everything.”

Willette said it was initially difficult to step away from camera work, but he had confidence in his team.

“I just wanted to try new things,” Willette said.  “I always shot my own stuff, but as a director I trusted my crew.”

There will be a series of awards presented at the festival. The judges have already viewed and scored the films. Bigley said he could not disclose the results, but added that “Closed Mondays” did “fairly well.”

Milwaukee Short Film Festival - 2016 - Milwaukee, WI

Festival Trailer

https://vimeo.com/179344260 

Milwaukee - Short Film Festival - 'Closed Mondays'  

Showing: Saturday, September 10th, 8:30 pm through Completion of All Films/Awards, Part of the Juried Films (Judging) - Part 2 

Juried films screen Friday September 9th at 6:30pm and Saturday September 10th at 8:30pm, Comedy Sports - Milwaukee, WI

Written/Directed by -  Henry Willette

Starring - Matthew Nichols, Sydney Johnson 

'Closed Mondays'

When a reclusive, small town museum guard unwillingly befriends a young patron, their shared appreciation of the museum's modest contemporary art collection sparks an unlikely friendship that forever changes the gallery's low attendance.

Filmed on location at the Haggerty Museum of Art in Milwaukee, WI by Marquette University students.

http://www.milwaukeeindependentfilmsociety.org/

Fork In The Road

Fork In The Road

Former New York Yankees great, Yogi Berra once said, "If you come to a fork in the road, take it!"  Whether joking or somewhat serious, the statement is open for a lot of interpretation.  I'd like to share with you my interpretation, which personal and subjective, is just one example of how it can apply to a person's life.

I've written in earlier blogs about my pursuit of professional baseball, my redirection to education and teaching for nineteen years and my most recent declaration to pursue a career in acting and screenwriting.  I guess I could say that I have faced the fork in the road four times, and now - I am faced with it again.  This time out of necessity and survival.

When I made the decision to pursue acting and screenwriting professionally, I knew it would be challenging and knew it would have risks.  Everyone knows that and certainly professed it to me and reminded me of its difficulty on a regular basis.  Believe me...I heard it often...from many people.

Leaving teaching and a full-time job to pursue acting/screenwriting, was essentially equivalent to me rolling the dice, taking a leap of faith or putting all my eggs in one basket.  It can be a monumental decision and you risk a lot in doing so.  And I did.

What resulted thus far was a flatlined, bottomed out, bust.  It didn't work. Opportunities came, more followed and hope was created.  Yet, not enough opportunities to provide for some of life's basic necessities - food, shelter and transportation.  They're kind of important.  Add in some unfortunate circumstances and some poor timing, and the theoretical eggs in my basket - all broke.  What I realized was that possible eviction, food from food pantries, back-bills, creditor calls, and car repairs are not worth the stress and anxiety of holding on so strongly to a dream that is not tangible - right now.

I say right now, because I believe that you should still follow your dreams, your bliss in life, regardless of the struggles or obstacles that stand in your way. What I found important in this life-lesson was that we may come upon more forks in the road than we realize.  Sometimes one direction is going to look a lot more attractive, appealing and enticing, but the other, the rational and logical is going to be the right path to take - in the now or right now.

I've come to a fork in the road...and I'm going to take it.  It's a new path and I have no idea where it will go or how long I will be on it.  But...it's the right path to take...right now.

Bipolar - The Short Film - Reaches (Humble) Milestone

Bipolar - The Short Film

Bipolar - the short film reached a humble milestone this last week as it marked its 15,000th view on YouTube.  While the short film was featured in a few, select film festivals, the vast majority of its viewership has been through YouTube exposure.

While the film doesn't currently share the spotlight of a 'million-plus views', or labeled as 'going viral', its exposure and message has touched and reached a respectful 15,000-plus viewers around the world.

Writer-director Matthew Nichols wanted to create a project that brought awareness to the illness of Bipolar Disorder and gave a snapshot into the lives of four (fictional) characters.  Bipolar is the psychological, inspirational drama about those four individuals, struggling to deal with the challenges of bipolar disorder and learning the power of family, unconditional love and forgiveness.  The short film is a unique, 14-minute journey that introduces the characters, their struggles and the people who give them strength and support.

Nichols has survived and successfully lived with bipolar disorder for over 29 years and is an advocate for educating and bringing awareness to the public about the illness.  He recently lost his brother to the illness in September of 2014, and is passionate about helping others to overcome personal struggles and to offer direction and resources to the families of, and those who live with the illness.

Synopsis:  Bipolar

A teacher, a single mother, a salesman, and a business executive are enlightened by the discovery of a way to overcome the destructive tenacity of a mental illness, but not without cost.  Their consistent struggles with the illness and inability to cope with overwhelming circumstances, finds them converging with one another in a local hospital.  They are faced with the reality of their illness and the elusive answers to overcome its destructive hold on their lives. Through a personal window into the world of bipolar disorder, these four individuals search for answer to win the war over the adversaries of mental illness, failure and suicide.  Their relationships intertwine, encourage and give new hope to a future they have yet to discover.  Their heartwarming and dramatic journey will bring viewers into the world of mental illness, and inspire others to never give up hope.

Written and Directed by Matthew Nichols
Story by Darren Elliot Fulsher and Matthew Nichols
Produced by Darren Elliot Fulsher and Matthew Nichols

"Dark Times" by Kevin MacLeod
"Sugar Pill" by Kyler England
"It's All Gonna Be Okay" by Jenna Lynne
"Hero" by Jayme Dawicki

View the film here:  (Copy and Paste)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rbyfCevsPjI

Next Steps

Next Steps

A lot of friends and family ask the 'million-dollar' question...Well, how are you going to do it?  i.e. Make it to Hollywood, or L.A., or simply... into the professional film industry, anywhere.

My honest answer to everyone is...I don't know.  But what I do know, is that there are a number of good ways to go about it, where a passionate individual can make a successful career of it.

To the best of my knowledge and research, the road is paved with a lot of challenges, setbacks, disappointments, rejection, a need for endless patience and tenacious, hard work.  Sounds inviting, huh?  That's life essentially.  That leads to the questions and comments such as...Why would you even want to go through all that?  Do you know how hard it is to make it in that industry? Etc...etc.  All I can do is smile and tell them...I'll find a way.  I don't blame any of my friends or family for feeling the way they do.  They're acting and expressing out of a place of love and their own semblance of support.  It was no different when I wanted to play professional baseball and made attempts to pursue that with the same passion and vision I held for many years of my young, adult life.  Did I make it, no.  But I learned a lot of valuable lessons, what it felt like and what it took to have a passion for something you love to do.

Here is another way I look at it and try to put things in perspective.  Again, you'll hear (I hear), how many people 'don't' make it in the film and tv industry.  Okay.  True, there are a lot of people who don't.  However, consider this; in 2014 there were approximately 1,400 movies released (the-numbers.com), which if we give a very conservative estimate of 10 cast members each, it gives 14,000 people an opportunity to be in film.  Then consider shows on cable and network tv and you can add a plethora of other opportunities.  The point is...the opportunities are there, you just have to find the road/path that is going to lead you there.

Here's what I know.  Obviously there is the high road, where you're in because you're the son, daughter or close relative of an established actor/producer or industry professional.  Right behind that would be those who know an established or reputable industry professional.  Then there is the low road, the one most of the aspiring actors are on (like myself), that begins with consistent experience, networking, connections and the newly acquired knowledge of social media.

My first acting gig was a short film called, 'She's Mine', back in 2005.  In 15 years I have been involved in 28 different productions in both film and television, in a variety of roles, both lead and supporting.  What does that have to do with the price of eggs...nothing really.  It's an example of the time and consistency you have to put in to improve your craft and in essence, prove your ability to reach a higher level.  This consistency could include acting lessons and workshops that also improve skills and abilities.

Again, speaking from my own experiences and networking (meeting people/asking questions), my next step is to secure a manager and an agent.  There are local agents in each city that can represent you and get you consistent commercial and print work.  However, the bigger cities like Chicago, New York, Miami, Atlanta, Austin and several others, tend to offer better opportunities for feature film and feature cable roles.  

So the question becomes, how do you connect with those agencies and get those opportunities?  Sometimes it's a matter of location and living in those cities.  Which at the present time, Milwaukee, where I live, is not one of those.  Here is the plan.  From what I've gathered, asked and learned is that my first step is to get a good demo reel of projects I have worked on.  Secondly, sending out query letters introducing myself with a resume and demo reel to a plethora (I like the word), of managers and agents.  Lastly...there is no lastly.  You ( I ) keep going, keep getting as many roles and experience as I can, keep networking and asking questions and stay focused on one thing...being the best actor I can possibly be.  Steve Martin was once quoted as saying, "Be so good that they can't ignore you."  Good advice and just what I plan to do.

For now...I will continue to pound, knock and ring at the acting door.  What's next...?  Stay tuned!

The Right Track?

The first thing I think about is that I can't believe I waited almost 5-months to the day since my last blog.  Writing (and acting) are my passion and I think it just comes down to making time to do it.  We take time to shower, brush our teeth, use the bathroom, etc. - everyday, so why not make more time for the things we are passionate about and love doing.

So, 'The Right Track?'.  I thought about titling this one, 'Chasing Rainbows', but in reality, we see them, but are never able to get to them or find the beginning or end to them.  Leprechauns maybe, but not us.  I equate that to my goals and aspirations to make a professional career of writing and acting.  I felt that 'The Right Track?' was a better title, because I could at least tangibly know that I was on 'a' track, and could still be moving in a positive direction.  Again, equating that to the pursuit of writing and acting on a professional level - wherever that is going to take me.

I think the common misconception most people have is that someone aspiring to make it in film is going to pack their bags and head to one place, Hollywood or L.A.  I know, I know.  That's two places, but same idea.  Not here to split hairs.  I have come to learn that the film industry is growing wings and finding successes in places far, far from the hustle and bustle of L.A.  Places like Atlanta, Georgia, Austin, Texas, New Orleans, Louisiana, and many others that are 'not' L.A.  Many still believe that L.A. is the best place to get connected and houses many of the biggest names and production companies.  I would hazard a guess that it is still most likely true.

The whole point I am trying to make here is that I am trying to find the track that is going to get me to  'the best' places to be.  Not one, but many.  I always tell friends and family that I started as a 'Z-List' actor and am working my way up to an 'A-List' actor.  I know the odds, I know the struggles, the long roads, the uncertainty, the intangibles, the disappointments, the rejection and the stories of the few who ever do make it...but I'm learning more and more everyday to numb myself to that.

All the people who 'are' there now, and who 'did' make it, were once in the very shoes I am standing in right now.  Flashing behind my blog are over 300 posters as I like to call them (screen savers), that rotate on my computer - telling of inspiration, hope, never giving up on your dreams, and believing that anything is possible.  I believe and I always have.  One of my greatest inspirations or examples I look to, is that of Morgan Freeman.  The guy I used to watch spell words on the Electric Company when I was a little kid.  We all know what a prominent and talented actor he is, having countless acting roles to his career.  But the inspiration for me comes in the fact that Morgan Freeman's career (according to Freeman himself), really began with his breakthrough role in the 1987 film entitled 'Street Smart', where he played the role of a character named Fast Black.  That would make Freeman 50 years old at the time.  50 years old!  Therein lies the inspiration.

At age 46, almost 47, I truly believe that there is the hope for a career in this industry.  Now...it's a matter of (who) I believe I can be, (what) it is going to take to get there, (when) the time is right to get on the 'right' track, (where) it will begin and take me, (why) I want to be there - which I will explain, and (how) I am going to go about making it a reality.

I had a fellow acting friend ask me yesterday, to send him my 'mission statement' for being an actor/writer.  Honestly, I didn't have one.  It is all in my head - the goals, the ambitions, the plan, but I never wrote them down.  So I sat and took a good chuck of time to really think about it and put it into words so that it made sense and was tangible.  And I know we would all love to make it about wealth and fame, but I truly realized it was so much more than that.

Here then...is what I crafted and honestly believe is the 'track' I am looking for.

Matthew Nichols' Mission Statement for Acting/Writing

My mission is to create a world of writing, acting and living that will inspire, encourage and be a positive influence on the lives of countless others.  I will create a world of stories that entertain, evoke deep, heartfelt emotions, and one that helps others to get lost and captivated in moments of time through unique, fictional realities.  I will become characters that audiences will truly believe are relatable and true to life, characters that inspire, encourage and give hope, characters that bring a genuine reality and depth to a story, its message and what its writer or writers want the audience to take away, and a characters which make audiences feel an endless variety of real, human emotions.  I will live; a personal life that focuses first on God, family and friendship, a professional life that focuses on the encouragement, support and help for fellow actors and writers, and a public life that focuses on the support, encouragement, inspiration and appreciation of fans and audiences everywhere.  My success will not be based upon financial gain, but on the countless lives I have influenced, changed for better, encouraged, and gave hope and faith to.

The right track?  I certainly want to believe so.

Until next time...

New Directions...

New Directions

I have to say, I get frustrated with myself when I don't take more time to write here, when writing is one of my greatest passions and simple pleasures.  

Regardless of whether the writing is considered 'good' or 'quality' is simply up to the people who choose to read.  Since the three things I love to do most - write, perform as an actor and make films, are so subjective in nature I've learned to let go of the worrying what others think of my work.  

That release has allowed me more time to focus on making my work the best it can be and free myself of the stress, anxiety and opinions of others.  I absolutely respect what others think and feel, and when it comes down to gut-level thoughts...I love the saying, "What others think of you, is none of your business."  (None of 'my' business)

It comes down to being kind, respecting the differences in others and treating others as you want to be treated.  I know and have learned that by doing those simple things, everything seems to fall into place nicely.

With that said, what does 'new directions' mean?  

Well...I spent the last nineteen years in the classroom teaching elementary education.  I had many, many great experiences.  There were many days of long nights, extra work, some anxiety, some stress and much worry about the well-being of my students and their families, as well as mine.  I had countless proud, fun, encouraging and life changing moments that I will remember forever.  Most importantly I hold a deep, sincere, heartfelt hope that I made a significant difference in the lives of the students I taught.  I may never see those affects, but I can only hope that my efforts and sincerity for their learning and emotional growth, contributes to and takes them to wonderful places, offering them lives that are fulfilling and satisfying. 

Prior to those nineteen years beginning, I had a desire and dream to pursue film and acting.  I loved and still love everything there is to love about films; their creativity, their messages, the way they entertain and move us emotionally, and how they have the ability to take us emotionally into the minds and hearts of the characters and stories - away from our own lives, even for a short time.  I want to be a part of that, to do that for others in the characters I play and the stories that I write.

I've had many people close to me, both friends and family who felt I 'should' be a teacher and that it was where I needed to be.  What I wanted back in 1994 was to step into the path of being an actor.  I knew it would be hard, the road would be long and the process no less than a challenging one.  However, I listened to those voices and words of advice, began teaching, and realized twenty-one years later I'm sure I lived those years for others and not myself.  I can't regret the path I made, because it has shaped me and has helped make me the man I am today.  

I was able to find a compromise and began acting and modeling in the summers when I wasn't teaching.  Those opportunities continued to grow and before I knew it, I was finding regular work in student and independent films, along with my commercial gigs.  The fire for more continued to burn, but time and financial security just weren't consistently on my side.  So I stayed with what I knew best - teaching, and waited patiently for every and any opportunity I could to act, write and be involved in film. 

The hardest part was always hearing that little voice in my head (no not hearing voices), but the voice in my heart that you sometimes don't hear until later in your life, telling you that it's never to late to find 'that one thing' that you would love to do and pursue it with all your heart and soul.

What truly matters is that I listen to my own voice and follow my heart and passions, or dreams - now.  So for me, it's time for a 'new direction'.  I'm taking that path I stared at back in 1994 - to be a professional actor and writer.  It will be hard, the road may be long and the process may be no less than a challenging one.  And I am sure, without a doubt, there will be a plethora of people who will say how difficult and unattainable it can be.  I'm 46 years old and you just have to come to a peaceful place in your life, where the voice on the inside - is smarter, stronger and more passionate than the millions of voices that surround you.  Opportunity 'is' there if you want it badly enough.  

I truly believe there are many roads that lead to Los Angeles and Hollywood.  Film is everywhere.  If the roads are all out, well...then I hop in a helicopter or plane and parachute in (theoretically of course).  I'm putting percentages and odds behind me...and putting opportunities and optimism in front of me.

Stay tuned...

'A Dubious Night' - Premier Screening 

The Towne Cinema - Watertown, Wisconsin - Friday, January 23rd, 2015 - 8:30 p.m.

http://www.towne-cinema.com

Bipolar - The Short Film, written and directed by Matthew Nichols, will have its theater debut next Friday, along with several other quality shorts including, 'Loss', 'Balloonatic', 'Mother Nature', 'Tough Cookie', and the feature premier of 'A Dubious Night', by writer/director Nelson Tony Oliveras. 

Admission is free and the theater is limited to 180 seats. Purchases from concessions are encouraged to help support the screenings.

Bipolar is the psychological, inspirational drama about four individuals, struggling to deal with the challenges of bipolar disorder and learning the power of family, unconditional love, and forgiveness. Bipolar the short film is a unique, 14-minute snapshot into the lives of the four main characters, surrounded by an emotionally moving soundtrack. It introduces the characters, their struggles and the people who give them strength and support.

Executive Producer - Steve Brick

Featuring Cast - Kristin Anderson, Edy Cullen, Darren Elliot Fulsher, Matthew Nichols, Audwin Short, Tabb Patz, Andrew Parchman, Bennett Litton, John Glowacki, Seth Nichols and Audrey Cullen.

Featuring Crew - Nate Haban, Quinn Hester, Zach McLain, Ryan Blomquist, Michelle Glowacki, Kevin Leach, Bennett Litton, Jacob Fatke, Sean Foran, and Essential Barbie.

Writer/Actor/Model

Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Matthew Nichols spent most of his childhood and teenage years pursuing professional baseball. After a successful athletic and academic career at the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater, Matthew went on to graduate with a Bachelors of Science Degree – Elementary Education. He went on to teach elementary education in the Milwaukee, Waukesha, and Oconomowoc, Wisconsin communities for 18 years.

Within Matthew’s teaching career, was a love for acting, modeling, writing and painting. In 1994 he began his film career as an actor and model in the Milwaukee and Chicago areas during his summers. Matthew is now a published author, dividing his time between teaching, acting, writing, independent film and painting.

He has appeared in a variety of industrial videos and commercials as a spokesperson and host, as well as doing local and regional ads for Fleet Farm, Kohls, and national ad campaigns including Miller/Coors for Major League Baseball and the National Football League.

Matthew has also been cast in Discovery Channel’s (Investigative Discovery) - Unusual Suspects, True Crimes - With Aphrodite Jones, and the feature film Serial Daters Anonymous.

Matthew continues to build a successful film resume appearing in a variety of independent films from a wide range of genres, including the Milwaukee Film Festival release of the romantic comedy Serial Daters Anonymous, and a variety of local and regional independent films, for both independent filmmakers and university students working on senior, thesis films in the Milwaukee, Chicago and surrounding areas.

He is currently teaching elementary education in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, and is also in development of an independent feature project. In addition Matthew is cast and filming in three college thesis films for the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, which will be released in the Spring of 2015.