The Right Actor

Jentri Chancey

Sat, 06/05/2010 - 23:03

I've spoken about my in-depth love and respect for actors before, yet they still have a way of pleasantly surprising me. Last week, we found our leading man, Bob, and I couldn't be more excited.  He was referred to us by Mark Duplass, (The Puffy Chair, Cyrus) someone I admire and respect very much as an indie filmmaker and actor. 

I can't tell you who our leading man is until Monday (via our newsletter, so make sure you're signed up!) but I can tell you a little about our introduction and initial process... After Mark told me this actor would 'kill the role' I was intrigued. I immediately dived into his work. I was really impressed with his unique look, and charisma on screen. I emailed him to see if he'd be interested in reading the script, and told him to let me know if he connected with any particular character (not wanting to force anything) and then I waited. He was filming another feature at the time, so a month probably passed before he sent me an email telling me he'd only been able to read about 30 pages, but he was loving it so far, and he'd get back with me... that made me smile... so I patiently waited some more. If it's one thing this business has taught me, it's not to put too many expectations into anyone else who hasn't given me their full commitment - YET. It's not fair for either party.

When he did get back with me, it was to my delight that he was enthused about the script and felt a deep connection to Bob. We briefly chatted about Bob's character via email, and temporarily put our discussion on 'hold' until it felt right to continue the conversation/process. 

This person seemed to have such a clear, profound, creative, passionate understanding of Bob — and after a first read. I was blown away. I just kept thinking -- YES, YES, YES.  What would our conversations be like after a second read? WOW.

I believe that when something is right, there is no anxiety or urgency involved (please, Lorie, remind me of this later). This just felt right, organic — no wild nerves, just excitement about the possibility of working with someone so versatile, whom we share the same vibe with. After all, he has experience with every side of production (writing, directing, producing and acting) which puts me at ease, too. He understands the indie world, and will be able to offer valuable reason.

I can't wait to tell you ALL ABOUT HIM on Monday. Right now, I feel like a 5 year old... lost, and happy --  in sunshine. So I'm going to get some ice cream.

xo Jentri

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