Before I discuss the actor's success factor, let's discuss the filmmaker's success factor--don't shoot on home video equipment with one light into the sun. Having said that, I was also mystified as to why this video about acting began with a shot of a ski jumper in slow motion. I was puzzled as to why all the actors interviewed talked about going into acting as, you know, a little like going into ski jumping. I was surprised to see an actor's sample demo tape include people practicing ski jumping. Then, a little ways into the film, we meet Hoot Maynard, the video producer, who is a SAG member, stuntman, grip and...surprise...a Utah based ski jumper too! Hoot has been working as a PA on Touched By An Angel, shot in Salt Lake City and has, apparently, convinced most of the show's actors, producers and directors to appear in his home video about acting. Unfortunately, he gets very little solid information out of them (and he lights a slightly distressed looking Carol Burnett to look like Casper the Friendly Ghost during a prolonged nuclear incident). Lacking focus, good framing, adequate lighting and audible sound, and containing some really ponderous analogies between acting and ski jumping, this video is not recommended. (R. Ray)
The Actor's Success Factor
(1997) 41 min. $19.95. Gravity Rebel Productions. PPR. Color cover. Vol. 13, Issue 4
The Actor's Success Factor
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