American Arts Film & Television Academy, LLC

🌟 𝗗𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿 𝗶𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗳𝗶𝗹𝗺? 🌟

We have two upcoming online courses just for YOU!

𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗙𝗶𝗹𝗺 𝗪𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲:
Pilar Alessandra’s one day short film writing course will break down in a unique structure how to write your own short film and discover all the artistic possibilities. Pilar will help you:

- Find and focus your idea
- Explore and structure your story
- Craft and rewrite your pages
- Edit creatively for your production needs

Lock us in your calendars for SATURDAY, MAY 4TH 4pm-6pm PST.

𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗢𝘄𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲:
Ever considered creating your own project or film, but not too sure where to start? LOOK NO FURTHER as our CEO Robbie Ryde will be hosting a course that will take the fear away from making your first step.

Our Create Your Own Content course takes you through the ins and outs of the backend of production:

- Business Plans & Budgets - Concept to creation, Film & Television.
- Production Processes & Pitching - Theatre, Film & Television
- Film Production & Development - Understand and Experience the working set
- Self Tapes & Online Casting Processes
- Reels/Short/Feature Film Production with Ryde Entertainment, Diversity - Entertainment, LLC and Young One Studios

Lock us in, FRIDAY, MAY 10TH for this incredible masterclass.

$447 for 6 weeks.

If you wish to be apart of one or both of these incredible masterclasses, please email: [email protected]

*If you sign up for Pilar’s Writing Class AND Create Your Own Content, you will receive at 10% discount.

We're thrilled to announce that Zoe Markos, a dedicated long-time student at AAFTA, has been appointed as the Head of Department of the Creative Space at the Greek Australian Film Society!

Congratulations to Zoe on this incredible achievement; we're incredibly proud of her!

🌟 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗖𝗘𝗦𝗦 𝗢𝗙 𝗔𝗡 𝗢𝗦𝗖𝗔𝗥 𝗪𝗜𝗡𝗡𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗔𝗖𝗧𝗢𝗥 🌟

With the recent release of the 'Folie a Deux' trailer, we couldn't help but wonder about Joaquin Phoenix's approach to preparing for his Oscar-winning role as the Joker.

His rendition of the Joker is a testament to his talent for delving into a character's psyche. Phoenix undergoes substantial physical transformations and draws on his innate understanding of human emotions and expressions to deliver a performance that resonates in cinematic history.

What steps do you take to prepare for a character portrayal?

𝗙𝗥𝗘𝗘 𝗖𝗟𝗔𝗦𝗦 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗔𝗗𝗨𝗟𝗧𝗦!!!

What’s the difference between auditioning actors and working actors? Come find out!

Join us Friday, April 5th 2024 3:30pm-6:30pm PST for a FREE ONLINE CLASS to see how we can bring your performance to the next level.

Our Process in Performance class will bring an in-depth training to how you can hone in on your process to get into your character, analyze a script, and understand your relationship with the characters and environment in the scene.

Actors will take on trailblazing performances, explore content creation over zoom, and engage in discovery of their process and the ability to make a role ‘their own’.

✨ To register, send an email to: [email protected] and tell us your full name and email!

Spaces are limited to make sure you get your free spot today!

Congratulations to Cali Kira for winning the Youth JO Scholarship!

Cali Kira’s scholarship application to American Arts, Film & TV Academy (AAFTA) was a testament to the embodiment of our core values. Her passion for the performing arts and her insatiable curiosity were on full display, reflecting the very essence of what we strive to instill in our students.

In her application, Cali showcased a deep-rooted love for acting and a thirst for knowledge that resonated with AAFTA’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering continuous growth. Her dedication to honing her craft and exploring new artistic avenues mirrored our belief in the power of passion-driven learning.

Furthermore, Cali’s application demonstrated her understanding of the importance of mindset and personal development, another cornerstone of AAFTA’s philosophy. Her ability to articulate her goals, showcase her unique artistic voice, and convey a genuine eagerness to contribute positively to the industry reflected a mindset aligned with our values of ambition, resilience, and creativity.

Cali Kira exemplifies what it means to embody AAFTA’s values, and her scholarship application served as a shining example of how passion, curiosity, and a growth-oriented mindset can lead to extraordinary achievements in the performing arts, film, and television industry.

Research has found that when people start a weight loss program with friends, 95 percent of them complete the program, compared to a 76 percent completion rate for those who do the program solo.

This doesn’t just work for weight loss; it works in all areas of life. Think: Tina Fey and Amy Poehler or Matt Damon and Ben Affleck!

Tag your Tina and embark on a journey of creativity and discovery with a friend by your side, and you’ll receive an incredible 50% off your next course!

Choose from ‘Process in Performance’ for aspiring adults, ‘Young Actors Masterclass’ for passionate teens, or dive into our ‘Create Your Own Content’ filmmaking class.

Don’t miss this chance to grow and explore the world of acting together!

Interested? Leave a comment below or send us a DM!

Offer ends April 1st, 2024.

Ever considered creating your own project or film but not too sure where to start?

LOOK NO FURTHER, as our CEO, Robbie Ryde, will be hosting a course that will take the fear away from making your first step.

Our 'Create Your Own Content' course takes you through the ins and outs of the backend of production:

✨Business Plans & Budgets: Concept to creation for Film & Television.
✨Production Processes & Pitching: Theatre, Film & Television.
✨Film Production & Development: Understand and experience the working set.
✨Self Tapes & Online Casting Processes.
✨Reels/Short/Feature Film Production with Ryde Entertainment, Diversity Entertainment, LLC, and Young One Studios.

If you sign up for Pilar’s Writing Class AND 'Create Your Own Content,' you will receive a 10% discount.

Details:

Date: FRIDAY, MAY 10TH

Location: ONLINE

Cost: $447 usd.

For more information and to reserve your spot, please contact us at [email protected].

It is our absolute pleasure to announce that our very own AAFTA Alumni, MADDY LEANE, took home the trophy at the Sydney Women's International Film Festival for her short film 'Ex-Affliction.'

In a world where the breakup of a relationship has unspeakable consequences, a q***r couple has four minutes to decide who "the winner" of their breakup will be. 'Ex-Affliction' brings strength, courage, and vulnerability to the screen with this compelling story.

Leane says, 'Ex-Affliction was an ambitious concept, but it was something I was so passionate about… I was fortunate when making this film to be surrounded by a group of creatives generous enough to lend their talents to me, and I could not be more grateful to them. The entire experience of this film showed me that while patience, dedication, and persistence can be difficult in the moment, it always turns out to be worth it.'

We first saw Maddy’s film on the big screen at a private screening for AAFTA Fest here in Los Angeles and were amazed by the heart and passion she put into it.

You deserve all the recognition you’ve received and will continue to receive throughout this year. We are so proud of you, Maddy! Congratulations!

Ever dreamed of walking in the footsteps of the talented Francisca Braithwaite and writing your own award winning short film?

We are excited to announce TWO exclusive courses designed to guide you in creating your own award-winning productions.

First on the agenda is Pilar Alessandra’s One-Day Short Film Writing Course, where you'll delve into a unique structure to craft your own short film and explore all the artistic possibilities.

Pilar will assist you in:
✨ Finding and focusing your idea
✨ Exploring and structuring your story
✨ Crafting and rewriting your pages
✨ Editing creatively for your production needs

Date: Saturday, May 4th, 2024
Location: Online!
Cost: $100USD

For more information and to reserve your spot, please contact us at [email protected].

Congratulations to AAFTA alumni Francisca Braithwaite, whose film 'Finding Addison' emerged victorious as the BEST SHORT FILM AT THE 2024 AACTA AWARDS.

'Finding Addison' weaves a poignant narrative of friendship, adventure, and a colossal secret destined to reverberate 31 years later. Notably, Francisca Braithwaite assumed the roles of director, writer, producer, and lead actor in this cinematic triumph.

In reflecting on her journey, Braithwaite acknowledges her identity as a multi-hyphenate, encompassing roles as an actor, writer, director, and producer. However, it was the transformative 'Empowering the Artist' workshop at AAFTA in 2020 that catalyzed a profound shift in her self-perception. Amidst global challenges, this course, with a 'Create Your Own Content' module, empowered Braithwaite to seize control of her career, fostering the confidence to embark on creating her own work. She expresses enduring gratitude to the AAFTA team for their unwavering support and commitment to emerging artists.

The AACTA Awards stand as the pinnacle of recognition in the Australian film and television industry, acclaimed both locally and globally – Australia's equivalent of the Oscars.

Braithwaite delves into the laborious journey of 'Finding Addison,' a project that consumed two and a half years from conception to completion. Rooted in a true story, the film held personal significance for her, navigating numerous challenges before finding its stride. Braithwaite attributes the success to an exceptional team, acknowledging the contributions of Faith Martin from Faith Martin Casting, post-production partners at Cutting Edge Films, Screen Illawarra, her family, executive producers, and the dedicated cast and crew.

The film features another familiar face from AAFTA, Aria Hart, recipient of the Carmen Duncan Scholarship and a noteworthy presence in 'Finding Addison.' Braithwaite expresses immense pride in the AAFTA family, confident that the achievements of these two remarkable women mark just the beginning of their promising careers.

At AAFTA, we believe that to attain the extraordinary, you must embrace the unfamiliar.

Step into the spotlight and redefine your limits.

Nothing makes us happier than witnessing our current students and alumni turn their dreams into reality. We often see individuals arrive in this city filled with hope, passion, and excitement. One of our outstanding students, CHARLIE DI STEFANO, exemplifies the fruition of hard work.

Charlie Di Stefano graduated from our program in 2022 and has since achieved numerous successes. Currently, you can catch him in your home every night in a recurring role on Neighbours.

During his time at our conservatory, Charlie crafted the beautiful film, “Is This Forever” - a poignant true story chronicling the transformative journey of a teenage boy grappling with his own grief and his brother's mental health challenges. Amidst the complexities of their experiences, the narrative explores the profound bond of brotherhood, revealing layers of love, respect, and shared struggles. Through a heartwarming and heartrending exploration, the protagonist discovers the resilient strength that arises from familial connections, ultimately offering a moving portrayal of personal growth and the enduring power of love.

What started as a passion project has evolved into a moving and impactful film, receiving six “Best Short Film” awards, two Best Cinematography awards, and two Best Supporting Awards.

On the night of the premiere, attended by a packed audience of 250 people, every single person rose to their feet in a standing ovation for this moving and beautiful film.

Charlie, we are HONORED to count you among our alumni, and we are thrilled for your continued success in this industry.

If you would like to watch 'Is This Forever,' it is linked below 👇

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KpZlxxp7BnM

As you embark on your upcoming role, consider this: What key details would you share to help someone accurately portray you?

Take a moment to envision compiling similar information for the character you're delving into, laying the foundation for a richer and more authentic portrayal.

Imagine your life as a blockbuster film:

What genre would best capture its essence, and which actor would flawlessly step into the lead role of you? 🎥🍿🎬

We are thrilled to introduce our newest scholarship:

THE J.O. ARTS SCHOLARSHIPS, which will be available for our fall start dates!

We are offering TWO scholarships - one tailored for our TEEN students and another for our ADULT students.

AAFTA scholarships aren’t about finding the most ‘talented’ performer - we can teach you that! What we look for passion and curiosity; we look for heart! We seek the artists who know that this is what they were put on this earth to do! Artists that will find a way to create their art no matter what!

Any scholarship we offer reflects our commitment to providing you with the knowledge and resources you need to succeed, we need you to bring your passion, curiosity, vision, and ambition

To be consider for this scholarship opportunity you must include:

✨ A two minute chat to camera describing why you are an actor and how this conservatory program could benefit you.
✨ Slate: Please state your name, location, availability to travel, vaccination statue.
✨ A showreel or recent self tape (monologues and two handers are encouraged).

ADULTS AND TEENS APPLY HERE:

https://mailchi.mp/aafta/acting-scholarships-2024-win-a-chance-to-train-in-hollywood-ages-12

Hurry! The deadline is fast approaching! Applications close on 27th of March, 2024 at 11.59pm PST.

We are curious, what would your billboard say? 🤔

Let us know in the comments below!

We are thrilled to announce our Carmen Duncan Scholarship Top 10 Finalists 🎭 🌟

These individuals represent the epitome of talent and dedication, and we couldn’t be prouder of their achievements.

This outstanding group has captivated our Australian judges with their exceptional skills, making the decision-making process incredibly challenging. Their creativity, passion, and hard work have truly shone through, setting a high standard for excellence.

Now, these talented finalists are gearing up for the ultimate showcase, where they’ll present their remarkable work to our esteemed panel of US judges. The anticipation is palpable as we eagerly await to see their talents shine on an even bigger stage.

Curious to know who our industry expert judges are? Be sure to check out our previous post, where we introduce the brilliant minds shaping the future of our industry.

Join us in cheering on these extraordinary individuals as they embark on the final leg of their journey towards the Carmen Duncan Scholarship. Their talent knows no bounds, and we can’t wait to see where their creativity takes them next!
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And the results are in!!! Congratulations to Olivia Sprague and Jayden McGinlay who tied for our second runner-up position in AAFTA’s Teens Carmen Duncan Scholarship! AND coming in as our offical first runner-up a HUGE congratulations to Shaelyn Connor!!
We received numerous incredible entries this year, which serves as a testament to the hard work and talent of our young actors. This is a massive achievement and we can’t wait to watch you continue to SHINE!
And huge congratulations to all of our top 10 and top 20 for their achievements this year!
Winner to FINALLY be announced tomorrow, stay tuned!
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And the results are in!!! Congratulations to Olivia Sprague and Jayden McGinlay for achieving the title of tied second runner-up in AAFTA’s Teens Carmen Duncan Scholarship! AND coming up as our offical runner-up a HUGE congratulations to Shaelyn Connor!!
We received numerous incredible entries this year, which serves as a testament to the hard work and talent of our young actors. This is a massive achievement and we can’t wait to watch you continue to SHINE!
And huge congratulations to all of our top 10 and top 20 for their achievements this year!
Winner to FINALLY be announced tomorrow, stay tuned!
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“Finding Addison” is officially AACTA NOMINATED!

Congratulations to AAFTA Alumni Francisca Braithwaite on this hugely exciting honor at the prestigious 2024 AACTA Awards.

Written by, directed by, and starring Francisca, “Finding Addison” interweaves the lives and timelines of five women: Lucy, Addison, Lynnie, and Jewel. As the story transitions between the past and the present, we witness the unfolding narratives of these women, showcasing the struggles, sacrifices, and secrets that have shaped their lives. The film explores themes of friendship, identity, forgiveness, and the profound impact of hidden truths that reverberate through generations, leaving an undeniable mark on those involved.

To support Francisca and "Finding Addison," you can cast your vote! AACTA membership is required. All the details are via the link below.

👉 https://www.research.net/r/SHRW5RC

🎭 𝗔𝗖𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗢𝗣𝗣𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗨𝗡𝗜𝗧𝗬: 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 “𝗡𝗢𝗧𝗘𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞” 𝗱𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿 𝗡𝗜𝗖𝗞 𝗖𝗔𝗦𝗦𝗔𝗩𝗘𝗧𝗘𝗦! 🎥

We have an incredibly EXCITING opportunity coming up with blockbuster director NICK CASSAVETES. His work includes The Notebook, My Sister’s Keeper, Alpha Dog, and The Other Woman.

Nick currently has over 18 projects in development right now, 13 of which he is set to direct! So, it’s a wonderful time to work with him.

AAFTA presents: Nick Cassavetes’ “THE UGLY TRUTH MASTERCLASS.” This course will focus on finding “The Ugly Truth” in your performance, with an emphasis on direction, script analysis, character & physicality, and artist mindset. This is an incredible opportunity to work one-on-one with one of the best directors in Hollywood. An online course will be offered from January 12th to January 13th. An in-person course will be offered from January 27th to January 28th.

PRE-REGISTRATION is open now until December 19th! The class is only open to 16 students, so if you are interested, please apply quickly, as spaces are filling up! As a pre-registered applicant, your submissions will be considered first for a working place in this program. No fees will be charged until you’ve been accepted into the program.

If you pre-register, the cost once selected for the course will be $447.00 USD. If you register after December 20th, the cost once selected will be $537.00 USD.

👉 https://form.jotform.com/233396250270150

Our 2022 Carmen Duncan Scholarship Teens winner Martha Kate Morgan has been absolutely kicking goals of late.

Last month, Martha took flight to Queensland to embark on a cinematic adventure like no other!

She starred in the short film, "Wild Dog," directed by the incredible Chelsea Ingram.

This film isn't just a project; it's a proof of concept for a future feature film, and let us tell you, it's nothing short of spectacular! With a tight-knit cast of three, set against the backdrop of a stunning location and a crew of over 20 talented creatives, "Wild Dog" promises to be a game-changer.

A huge congratulations to the team behind Martha, her Mum Jodie who works so hard behind the scenes for all of Martha’s work and auditions, and our very own Robbie Ryde who coached her on this role.

📸 Alex Vaughan

"𝑰𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒒𝒖𝒊𝒆𝒕 𝒎𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝒘𝒂𝒓𝒎-𝒖𝒑𝒔, 𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒔 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒕𝒉 𝒕𝒐 𝒓𝒐𝒂𝒓 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒖𝒓𝒕𝒂𝒊𝒏 𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒆𝒔.

Are you warming up your body before every rehearsal and performance?

We have listed a few of our favourite exercises here to get your body ready to perform.

Are there any warm ups that you like to do that we have missed here? Let us know in the comments below.

Celebrating the incredible achievement of 2022 Actors Conservatory graduate, Hannah Carmen!

Her short film, "The Five Stages," a musical journey through the collapse of a young woman's relationship, has been a festival sensation. 🎬

Hannah's talents shine as she wrote, produced, sang, and starred in this masterpiece, proudly brought to life by our sister company, Diversity Pictures.

🏆 "The Five Stages" has already claimed victories:
- Experimental, Dance & Music Film Festival (Toronto): Official Selection and Best Performances Winner.
- Dreamachine International Film Festival (LA): Official Selection and Best Concept Winner.
- Athens International Monthly Art Film Festival (Greece): Official Selection and Best Art Film Winner.
- San Francisco Arthouse Short Festival: Semi-Finalist for Best Experimental Film.
- VAEFF (Video Art and Experimental Film Festival - Tribeca Film Centre in New York): Honorable Mention.

As we applaud Hannah's success, our 2023 Actors Conservatory students are in the midst of crafting their own cinematic wonders. Stay tuned for highlights of their creative journey over the next few weeks!

The AAFTA 2023 Actors Conservatory recently had the incredible opportunity to be mentored by none other than Paul Johansson.

Widely recognized for his iconic role on 'One Tree Hill' and boasting an impressive repertoire of over 80 credits, Paul graciously imparted his invaluable wisdom to our eager group.

It was truly an honor to soak in the insights and experiences shared by a seasoned professional of Paul's caliber, adding a rich layer of depth to our journey in the world of acting.

🍼 HAPPILY EVER AAFTA 👶🏻

Congratulations to our very own Jessica Orcsik and Robbie Ryde on the safe and happy arrival of their beautiful little boy Seth.

Jess and Robbie have been in a happy bubble with both of their mums flying over to LA to spend time with the new little family.

Thank you to the wonderful people at New Idea for capturing these great images (Seth’s first magazine shoot!)

Congratulations to AAFTA student Martha Kate Morgan for her role in the feature film “Mercy Road” starring Luke Bracey, Toby Jones and Susie Porter.

Martha was the winner of the 2022 Teens Carmen Duncan Scholarship and has been having regular coaching sessions with Robbie Ryde.

"Mercy Road" is a candidate to be nominated for several 2024 AACTA Awards and YOU can vote! The catch? Voting closes TOMORROW so head to the link below to watch the trailer and vote now!

https://tv.aacta.org/film/mercy-road/?fbclid=IwAR2lKPPNMEA4z1NeARiIPboqnTfjV6NL2kfGmIZced6AfoWge-TilaLAi5s

Massive congratulations to AAFTA student Kya Stewart for making it to the regional finals of the World Monologue Games! 🎉

To show your support, watch it all happen live and VOTE for Kya, there will be a livestream on YouTube tonight!

All details below!

When: Friday 27th October @ 8PM AEDT (finishes at 10PM and then voting opens)
Where: YouTube livestream https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=YUfMgmH777Y

📸 Alex Vaughan