The Truth About Pursuing Acting in LA: More Than a Dream

Many aspiring actors, like YOU, dream of making it big in the bustling Hollywood landscape of Los Angeles. The idea of moving to LA from Italy at 18 to attend acting school and pursue your career can seem both thrilling and daunting. However, in this digital, ever-changing landscape, it's crucial to approach this journey with the right mindset and preparedness.

Why Thinking About Moving to LA is Not Dumb

It's important to recognize that while there's no denying the allure of Hollywood, the reality of the acting industry in Los Angeles can be quite different from what aspiring actors imagine. The path to becoming a successful actor is challenging, but it's not an impossible dream. In fact, moving to LA from Italy at 18 to pursue acting can be a viable dream, given the right preparation and mindset.

Why It's More Than Just Acting School

The path to becoming a successful actor is multifaceted and involves more than just completing acting school. Before you jump into the industry, it's essential to understand the harsh realities of the life of an actor. Here's what you need to be ready for:

Working Long Hours and Being Ready to Perform

Acting is a demanding profession that often requires long work hours. Imagine acting for 80 hours a week, or 22 hours straight without food, not to mention dealing with dramaturgical challenges. You should be prepared to perform physically and mentally demanding tasks. Loving your craft enough to do it for free for at least two years can also be a valuable test of your commitment.

Dealing with exploitation and scams

Unfortunately, the entertainment industry can be riddled with scams and unfair practices. Being ready to spot daily scams, and fight against illegal immigrants, sex traffickers, and the Armenian mafia is crucial. Understanding that you can be unfairly treated or even abused on set despite being the highest or only paid person is part of the reality you must face.

The Good News: Building a Foundation

While the industry can be challenging, there is a way to make your dream more tangible. Here are some practical steps to take before you step into the spotlight:

Read Aloud to Build Your Skills

One of the most crucial skills for an actor is the ability to deliver a compelling and consistent performance live. Start by reading out loud in front of a mirror for 7 hours straight, which simulates the physical and mental exertion required for a film shoot. Multiply this by 21—many films are shot over 21–35 days. This will give you a taste of the intense work you'll need to do.

Leverage Alternative Acting Opportunities

Instead of enrolling in expensive acting schools, consider starting with less competitive and less glamorous roles. Start with print ads or voice-over work, which can be done anywhere in the world. These roles provide a stepping stone to build your skills and reputation without the high expense of acting school.

Prioritize Safe and Rewarding Pursuits

Once you have gained experience and a solid portfolio, you can confidently move to LA. Your goal should be to achieve a regular daily rate of at least $500 per gig. This could take you anywhere from 4 weeks to 4 years. This steady income will help you establish a foundation and begin building the network you need to succeed in LA.

Don't Professional Training Universities for Everything

While acting schools can provide valuable insights, it's not necessary to enroll in them to start building a career. Basic training can be gained through experience in fields like voice-over and modeling, which are performed at a much smaller scale than traditional acting roles but can earn you substantial pay.

In Summary: Pursuing acting as a career is a complex and challenging journey, but it's far from impossible. Being prepared, both physically and mentally, is the key to succeeding in this demanding industry. By understanding the realities of the life of an actor and taking a strategic approach, you can make your dream of becoming a successful actor in Los Angeles a reality.

Keywords: acting in LA, pursuing acting, LA acting industry