Ask an Insider

Who Has Taught You the Most About Acting?

"Movies and television were my first teachers and taught me the most. There's a combination of all the great actors that I watched in movies and on television while growing up."

How Do You Cast Biopics and Historical Figures?

It's a much more specific demand when we're casting really current figures—figures in the media, very visible figures. They're not just in history; they're people our audience would know very well.

How Do You Help an Actor Who Is Struggling to Create a Role?

"I think my job usually is to be like a second instinct, brain, and conscience for the actors. I have to work at least as hard as they do, especially prior to and during rehearsal. I have to be able to come in and provide options."

Can an Actor Infer from a CD's Thank You?

I try to be kind and warm. I wouldn't quite say neutral, but I don't want to lead someone on. I try to give an honest assessment but at the same time be kind.

Grieving for Natasha

I have been very upset over Natasha Richardson's death. It's like someone in my family died, but I didn't even know her. Is there anything wrong with me?

Fighting Fear

I've had some success as an actor, but I wonder if this is the time to think about doing something else with my life. I keep worrying about this all the time, to the point where I can't sleep. What can I do?

Common Mistakes

"Doing too much in their montages. Even having a montage. Directors and casting directors really want to cut to the chase with you, not see little bits of everything you've ever done."

How Do You Get Into the Mood to Act When You Just Don't Feel Like Acting?

"I have days when I don't want to do the show, when I'm depressed, when I'm physically sick, and I just put it into the character."

Learn About Acting as a Director?

Once I began directing, I became more fully cognizant that what is truly engaging is the energy that exists between actors, or between an actor and the audience or the camera.