i believe that if i had worked as hard to be an actor as i have to be a journalist, i'd be where some decently comfortable actors are right now. it just seems like many people get discouraged and drop out, and the ones that succeed are the ones that stick with it, or have some individual trait that differentiates them from the rest.

discuss.

Acting is a total grey area for me

I think industry is the keyword. I believe that it's very much of a marketing and modelling process... I don't think that filmmakers actually go for the best or most characteristic actors nowadays, which is why most of them are mediocre at best, but rather for who they can model best. I could elaborate a bit on that, but I'm not sure if that was actually what you've been looking for.

Behind the counter at the local McDonald's?

and where does God given talent figure into all this?

i'm not really sure, but you make a good point.

I've learned a lot about it from working actors, and it can be pretty tough. A lot of it is going to auditions and knowing there's a good chance you'll be rejected, while still having to keep up a massive level of confidence. At the same time though, many actors only shoot for small roles and commercials and are able to make a comfortable living. It's very important that you and your agent figure out the best way for your skills, looks, and talents to be marketed, and that you hold nothing back for casting directors, who are historically unimaginative. You MUST make a strong choice for every character you read, even if it's two lines in a used car commerical.

I think I'll be doing this in three years or so, so I'm trying to learn as much as possible right now.

that's sort of what i'm saying. of course, you have to have the talent. and of course, some are just gifted.

but, i think it's like any other job, where if you work hard enough and keep at it, you'll succeed. i feel many get discouraged because it's tough and drop out, and the ones who keep at it are the ones who are big.