Living in the Limelight, the Universal Dream
Categories: 101 in 1001
Date: Saturday, 15 March 2008, at 1:13 pm
Last night (and I really do mean all night long), I worked as an actor in an upcoming new movie, thus completing my 101 item #12, “Get a speaking part in a movie or TV show, just for the fun of it.”
Technically, though, this role was not actually a speaking part, but I am still considering the item finished for three reasons.
First, it was a featured part for which I had to grow my beard for six weeks, go in to the studio backlot for several wardrobe fittings, and sit through some unique make-up applications.
Second, this role is significant in the film because I’m portraying a #######, and how many people get to say that? As a fan of this movie too, I can say that it doesn’t get much cooler than this! I am extremely grateful to the director, producers, and assistant directors who made this once-in-a-lifetime experience possible.
Third, the experience reminded me of how much I really do not enjoy acting. Yes, one of my minors in college was Dramatic Arts and I did get my start in the 1990s in extras casting, but I moved on when I realized my lack of talent. I also discovered other careers paths that were far more rewarding to me, i.e. location scouting and managing.
As supportive as I am of my friends who act, it’s just not something for me. I don’t like the lifestyle and daily routines. I don’t like spending so much time on set (as a Location Manager, our time there is split 50-50 since we’re also out dealing with neighbors and other issues). And I really just don’t have the desire. As Rush said in their classic song Limelight, “Living in a fish-eye lens // Caught in the camera eye // I have no heart to lie // I can’t pretend a stranger // Is a long-awaited friend.” Yup, that’s me.
If a speaking part comes up someday, I might take it (as long as it doesn’t require too much emotional range or ability), but I’m not going to seek it out. I am very, very happy to have appeared in this particular film and that will suit me just fine for well into the future.
It’s as if I’ve achieved the ultimate already, so now I can simply sit back and retire....
NOTE: The paragraph that is censored above is due to confidentiality until after the movie gets released. I’ll be able to write more (and perhaps someday post pictures) after that date eventually arrives.