An Interview With
MULTIPLE-AWARD WINNING DIRECTOR
Joel Colman
Be the Best That You Can Be!
Joel Colman has enjoyed a career in the entertainment industry that most people only dream of. He is a director, cinematographer and producer. He received several awards as the staff director and cinematographer for MPO-TV, the second largest commercial production company in the world, and filmed the single most awarded commercial in history, Eastman Kodak's Green Green Grass of Home.
Joel has directed over 1300 commercials for television and six feature films including Big Time for Motown Productions. He also directs celebrity play readings at the Coronet Theatre. He has written several screenplays as well as the self-help book Get Rid of Your Archaeological Garbage and Get a Life! Joel has done very well in the industry and he believes in giving back. When time permits, he conducts "consciousness-raising" workshops. He also teaches acting - by invitation only - at his own workshop, where he prepares actors to get film and television work.
Joel is currently in pre-production on a feature film and has
been set to direct three others. Information on these projects will be
listed, as it becomes appropriate, in the "Now
Casting" section of this site.
Joel, you seem to be good at so many aspects of the business. Which do you enjoy most?
My true love is directing. I feel more of me is used in directing. I get totally involved in the process as a director. I like working with the editing and the music as well bringing the whole thing together.
You have been in the business since 1955. What changes have you seen?
Changes for the good. The acting is much better than it used to be . . . the difficulty is that Hollywood doesn't always know what it wants.
What is your advice for brand new actors?
Get into a basic acting class. Use an ice-breaking organization to start networking. Networking is very important in this town. Also, act every chance you get -- showcases, theater, and class.
What about seasoned actors?
They should still act as much as possible. Keep the acting muscle up. Sharpen timing by doing theater. You need training in using your voice and body. Rent a theater and get four people together if you have to.
What is your advice for the auditioning process?
Be creative. Do something unique within the realm of the character. Take a risk -- leave them with something. Remember to leave all your mental debris outside the door. Be very involved in the scene. Don't be an actor waiting for your turn to give lines -- 50% is listening. Commitment to the character is essential. Audition as much as possible.
You suggest that actors be associated with "ice-breaking" organizations?
Yes, Women In Film is a good one. APS is a great place to network. I have been working with APS for over ten years. The contacts you make there are invaluable. Networking is the key, because you can't get to many of the people unless you network.
What is your feeling about agents?
When you get your first agent, start looking for your next one. If you get out less than once every 10 days, you are not getting enough exposure. Don't rely on agents only. Don't put your hands in someone else's -- network and market yourself.
Any suggestions for building a successful acting career?
Yes. Always remember: You are a business! You are self-employed. You are an entrepreneur.
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Be 110% committed to your career and go for it. Be committed 120% when you are auditioning.
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Develop a good base -- acting class, performing.
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Have passion for what you are doing -- be involved, committed and focused.
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Determination -- No one or no thing can stop your climb to the top. The only thing standing in your way is you.
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Perseverance -- Never stop auditioning, seeking agents, and making contacts.
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Optimism -- Be able to work through rejection.
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Vision -- Keep your goal in sight.
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Never stop learning -- reading, going to movies, watching television, going to plays.
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Have a very positive belief in yourself -- You are unique and deserve to be successful.
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Always be learning and prosper others in their rise to success. Volunteer for charities.
What are your long term goals?
I want to get a project produced as an independent producer. I would like to direct another comedy. I'm writing an actor's workbook. I want to have fun for the rest of my life -- to direct sitcoms and plays.
What personal motto do you live by?
You know your life is working when you find a parking space in Westwood! When you know you are where you want to be -- Give back! It prospers you.
For more information on Joel, check out his website by
clicking below:
http://www.professionalactingclass.com