The Hollywood Complex

I watched a documentary the other night called The Hollywood Complex which is about the migration of hopeful child actors to LA for pilot season. It focuses on a few families who have come seeking fame and fortune and stay in an apartment complex that caters to those who are looking for their big break.
We see these young folks as they attend classes and seminars, go on auditions, and deal with the cruel business that preys upon the hopeful.
As a filmmaker I've worked with kids before. More than a few times. Each time I try and do my best to make the experience a fun one. I look out for them. Everyone on my crew does. The thought of them heading out to Los Angeles and being taken advantage of make me angry.
Another part of the flick that annoyed the heck out of me was a guy who was leading a seminar told the kids and their parents not to do student or indie films. Why? Cause they wouldn't make money that way. For me that's a terrible thing to instill in them. While most indie and student films don't pay their actor what the talent does get is experience.
Knowing how a set works and how to work under pressure is something anyone who wants to be an actor needs to learn. It will help build the confidence needed for those jobs that someone is laying money down for. Being confident is something I look for when in the audition process.
Of course I also really enjoy giving someone a chance who may not have had one in the past. You may not have a ton of lines or be the star but I will get you in the flick somehow just so that you can get a chance to work on a set and really find out if it's something you would like to do.
It's a good documentary that I think anyone who is thinking of getting into the acting game should watch especially if you are a kid or have kids who want to act. Be smart and aware that the road is not an easy one and there are trolls under every bridge.

See the film now on Netflix Instant Watch.