i'm a young woman from canada. do you think it's practical for me to pursue a film acting career in LA?

Question

I know it's been done, but even though it's really what i want, and I know how to get started... is it practical??

Answer 1

You know, there's a lot going on in Canada... why not start there then move here when it becomes more do-able? There are a lot of projects shooting in Toronto! If you're anywhere near there, that's where'd I'd start. LA is filled with hundreds of thousands of wanabes. Why join the massive pool until you have a resume to show that you're capable? Start where you are, get some training and build your resume. Then make the move.

Also, I think it's cheaper if you join the union there then come here, but don't quote me on that. Check for yourself first!

good luck,
Marianne

Answer 2

You need to be able to work at and handle disposable jobs (which means waitress or telelphone sales where you can show or no show or trade days) or have a big savings account.

You need transportation (a good car)

You need a US work visa or permit

YOu need to pay $1,500 to $2,000 a month minimum for room, board, tranasportation.

You need to register wtih Central Casting and a few others ($50 fee for each)

You need a headshot and resume.

Central casting will get you started in extra work.

After that the rest is up to you, there is side street theater (voullenteer or maybe $100 a week), commercials, some print work

You need to have $2,500 in the bank to buy your union card, one payment certified check.

If you work real hard in one or two years you will be making about $20K a year just doing extra work.

$50 base pay, plus overtime, bumps.

Some days you will make $50

Some days you will make $150

Yu might get taft hartley for the union as one actress I know did.

You might become a regular and make $300 a week 23 weeks a year doing 2-3 days work.

Answer 3

Are you considering moving to LA? If not, I would try to start in Canada first, then after you've earned some cash, then try for LA.

Answer 4

if you are looking for "practical" means, then no you will never persevere.