Living the Hollywood life is a dream for a lot of creative types in America.There is a reason why people don't move to Hollywood to get a Film or TV job.Those willing to work hard, talk to everyone they meet, and patiently work up the ladder can make their Hollywood dreams come true.
Step 1: You should get a degree in film production.
While not necessary to succeed in Hollywood, film school is a great place to learn the hard skills of film, while getting a chance to practice with professional equipment.If you have graduated, you can take film classes at local art schools.Film school can be expensive, but it's a great way to make connections in the industry, and you'll learn a lot about how to create films.
Step 2: The production assistant or grip is an entry level position.
The process of filming takes over 100 people to complete.There are a lot of jobs in Hollywood behind the scenes.Almost none of them will hire you if you don't have previous experience.You have to start from the bottom to get the job you want.The production assistant is one of the most common entry level positions.This is the first job a burgeoning filmmaker takes, because they get to work with many different film departments and meet many people, but it is thankless work.The grip holds boom microphones and cameras.It is physically taxing to hold up equipment all day for someone interested in the audio side of Hollywood.The script supervisor reads the script while filming to make sure there are no mistakes.Smaller studios will often hire a new person if they have experience in editing or writing.
Step 3: internship with a film studio
Anyone can get a good internship with a little hard work.Being in a studio each day teaches you about the industry and opens doors to better jobs later in life, even though the job is often thankless.Yearly internship programs are offered by most major studios on their websites.If you love the movies or TV produced by a certain studio, you can check out employment or jobs on their website.Search for internships across Hollywood.
Step 4: No matter what the job is, do it to the best of your ability.
Being a production assistant is hard.It might feel like you are wasting your time because most of your day is spent doing menial tasks.Most of the people working in Hollywood started from the bottom and worked their way up because they were reliable, respectful, and helpful.Before you are trusted with the creative jobs, you have to prove you can do the basic jobs on a film set.
Step 5: Films can be made in your free time.
Taking matters into your own hands is the best way to get experience.Nowadays, the equipment needed to make a film is almost worthless, as most smart phones can record HD video and sound right out of the box.Write a short script, grab some friends, and start filming today.If you want to grab viewers online, post your videos on the internet.If you submit your movie to the film festivals, film professionals might see it and ask for more work.Several famous writers/directors, like the Duplass brothers, got started here.
Step 6: You can send a demo reel to potential employers.
While a good smile and personality will help in an interview, most studios want to see some of your work before hiring you.A demo reel is a collection of your film accomplishments that you use to prove your skills.It should be no more than 2 minutes and feature your best work.You should grab their attention in the first 30 seconds.If you want to apply for a job editing, you should focus on scenes that cut between multiple angles, while sound design should be about showcasing how you mix music, dialogue, and sound effects.To prove you can work on a variety of films, try to show more than one project at a time.
Step 7: It's important to meet as many people as possible.
You never know when someone will offer you a big break in Hollywood.A network of people around you that can lead to your next job can be created by working lots of different jobs, going to parties, and introducing yourself.Gain experience and make new contacts by working as many jobs as you can.You never know who might get a promotion and need your help later in life, so always be respectful and helpful on set.
Step 8: You can learn how to format screenplays.
If your script is not formatted correctly, it will be thrown out by the studio executives.There are a number of online programs that can format your script, from free programs to the industry standard Final Draft.The type should be in 12pt.Attach a title page to the front with your name and contact information in the bottom left corner.
Step 9: You can read screenplays from your favorite shows.
If you want to write screenplays, you need to read them.A good screenplay must tell the entire story without actors or cameras, and it must paint a picture in the readers head as if they were watching the movie at that moment.You can only learn this form by reading the masters.While not every screenplay is online, a large number of them have been posted on various websites.If you don't know how to format a scene in a movie, read the script to see how it is written.
Step 10: Write something.
The first question you will be asked in an interview is, "can we see your work?", very few people in Hollywood are concerned with your degree or resume outside of writing, what they want to see is a fresh voice that is willing to write for a living.Once you have written a good screenplay, it is time to write another one.Write 3-4 pieces in the same genre.Most studios have one type of film.If your first script is noticed, you will have more than one script for the studio.
Step 11: Log lines can be used to sell your script.
Log lines are summaries of your film.Next to movies online and in the newspaper, there are brief explanations.It is difficult to communicate the main character, the mood, and the plot in one sentence.In the fast paced world of Hollywood, you may only get 30 seconds to grab someone, and the best log-lines hook a person before they even open your script.A cop has to talk down a bank robbery after it spirals into a hostage situation.Two imprisoned men bond over a number of years, finding solace and eventual redemption through acts of common decency.Forrest Gump has been present at many historic moments, but his true love, Jenny, is missing.
Step 12: Your screenplays should be submitted to contests and festivals.
There are hundreds of stories about unknown writers winning $10,000 and a trip to Hollywood after winning a contest like the Austin Screenwriting Contest or Final Draft's Big Break.Most contests give feedback on your script and give you advice on how to improve it.If you don't live in L.A, contests are a direct line to Hollywood if you win.The earlier you submit, the cheaper the contests are.If you read reviews of contests, you will know if they are worth your money.MovieBytes.com has reader reviews of each contest.
Step 13: Become a writer's assistant.
Writers need to start at the bottom before getting their own show or movie deal.The important part of the job of a writer's assistant is making connections and lasting friends.You never know when a writer will ask you to be a co-writer.You can apply to be a writer's assistant on television and film studio websites.
Step 14: When asked, only pitch your script.
There are stories in Hollywood about people who are more concerned with their own writing than the project they are working on.This distracts you from doing your job.You will be promoted, noticed, and asked to share your ideas if you work hard and do everything you can to help your project run smoothly.When you have the chance to talk about your writing, take it!
Step 15: Work as many film jobs as you can.
If you have to, act as an extra and write commercials.Every experience will teach you something and help you get closer to your dreams.Make as many connections as you can because every connection can turn into something important.
Step 16: You should move to Los Angeles.
It is very rare for an actor to get a job in Hollywood.You need to be available for an interview at a moment's notice if you want to become a paid actor.The average cost of living in LA is 50% higher than the rest of the country, so make sure you have enough money saved to live comfortably until you find a job.
Step 17: Take a professional picture.
Headshots are high-quality pictures of you that studios use to decide if you are the right fit for a role.The average cost of a photo studio that offers headshots is $200-$400.It's important to tell the photographer that your headshots are for acting, as there are other professions that don't use the same style.If you want the industry to see you, you need to show off your brand.Think about 3 words that describe you, like "upbeat, funny, and sporty," or "intelligent, quirky and caring."Try to embody that through your clothes, expression, and pose.
Step 18: You can be an extra or a crew member.
Extras are the people in the background of movies and TV shows, and you can often grab a gig as an extra by simply showing up.Being an extra means you get to be on set, meet people and learn how the film industry works, while still making some money acting.Some famous actors started out as extras and worked their way up.If you get to be on a film set, you will be able to make contacts that could lead to your next role.
Step 19: At work, at parties, and on movie sets, you can network with people.
The star of The Office got her first big role from a woman she met at a party.She was asked to try out for the role of Pam after she proved she was a dependable actress.You never know who will come through with your big chance, so be kind to everyone you meet, and work hard on every role you get.The more roles you take, the more connections you will make with actors, directors, casting professionals, and agents.
Step 20: Take acting classes.
Taking the time to make connections is more important than your skills with professionals.Opportunities will arise for some people that can help you as well, because the people you take classes with are all in the same boat.A lot of comedy groups began with friends made at acting classes.
Step 21: You have to register with SAG to get benefits.
The Screen Actors Guild is a union for actors.Many TV shows, films, and commercials only use actors who are certified by the Screen Actors Guild.You should register online once you get your first chance at auditioning.Membership in the Screen Actors Guild costs $200 a year and includes health benefits, acting workshops, online casting databases, and support when signing contracts.
Step 22: Go to as many as possible.
Online, in trade books, and in newspapers all over Hollywood, you can find your chance to shine.Ask your friends if they know of any good casting opportunities.To get up-to-date casting information, check online casting databases.If you have an agent, ask them to find parts for you.Prepare for an auditioning by cleaning up, reading the part, and practicing your speech.
Step 23: You should get an agent once you start booking.
In order to land roles for actors, agents communicate directly with studios.When a movie or TV show needs someone with a certain look or style, they ask the agent to give them a list of potential names instead of putting up a Craigslist ad.To get an agent, research acting agencies near you and send them a resume, cover letter, and headshots.Broadway or feature film actors are similar to yours, so try to focus on agencies that specialize in them.The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists approved agents have proven connections, so try to use them.If you want to find an agent, you can search online for acting agencies, buy a "Call Sheet" book, or ask your friends if they can give you a good word.Many agencies are busy and may not even read your submission.Actors who have worked a few small jobs will be accepted.
Step 24: Start with small roles.
Most actors work for years before being noticed if they get noticed at all.If you want to apply for small parts on TV shows, commercials, or the background of movies, don't let pride stop you.Your dreams as an actor will be helped by every role you land.Commercials only require one day of work for actors.
Step 25: Stand-up comedy is a good way to get your name out there.
If you ignore it, you can break into the film industry.If the right person is in the audience, you can get noticed on stage.Alec Baldwin began his career in theater.David Cross and Amy Schumer both spent years performing stand up.
Step 26: While your career develops, be patient.
It takes patience, hard work, and sacrifice to become an actor in Hollywood.Some actors don't make it out of commercials and small parts because they love their work.It is possible for your big break to come at any time, but only if you work hard enough.