Industry friends

A friend asked me to be the lead in his indie film. We met 6 years ago doing a network showcase (that's when networks audition newcomer-actors to do a showcase of scenes for agents, casting execs, etc....a six week process of making fans at an exec level, and making great actor friends). It's funny because my agent at the time didn't want me to do it, but I self-submitted through SAG, was chosen, and had a blast. Some of my best friends are from that showcase.

So back to present -- my friend (who now produces much more than he acts) asks me if I can do his film. Not a big budget (under a million), but great people attached and a great script. I was ecstatic. Problem was, he wanted to shoot during pilot season. I knew I couldn't do it.

A month or so passed, and he pushed the shoot dates, and re-offered me the role, knowing pilot season was winding down. I consulted my agent, and again he shared his concern that if a test deal, recasting, or arc on some show came up during those dates he would need to pull me from the film. Because while it would be fun to do, it wasn't as life altering as a pilot could be (and not nearly as lucrative). And as I've never been an indie darling (as much as I love Parker Posey), the focus has been on more commercial projects. Mainstream great big features and TV shows.

But that wasn't my concern -- for me, it was knowing that my friendship was more important than any job. And that I would never put my friend in a situation where he chooses me, and because of another (or a better) opportunity, I would have to pull out. That wouldn't be fair. So as honored as I was that he thought of me, I had to trust my team, and pass yet again. (I felt physically ill making that call, by the way).

Thankfully, I am surrounded by brilliant people. The happy medium that my friend came up with was to have me shoot a couple days on the film as a cameo VS all two weeks of shooting as the lead. Perfect! Best of both worlds.

I start shooting next week, and I'm so excited. Now that is what I call a "Good Friday." (Cheeky, I know...)

PS
These daffodils have nothing to do with the post, but they make me happy. If you don't have flowers in your home right now, then enjoy these -- or go to Whole Foods and buy some (3 bunches for $5 -- now that's a perfect way to treat yourself!)