Comments on: Is Joke a Debbie Downer?

By: Quicksilverfunsugar. The Big Break – The Parent Trap / Quicksilverfunsugar

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 20:52:14 +0000

[...] industry, a view from Joke and Biagio presented “the inside” of what it takes toward achieving success in a competitive industry. Quicksilverfunsugar, continuity, definitely agrees with the take on professionalism, and also [...]

By: Gabriel Novo

Gabriel Novo — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 22:56:38 +0000

It’s funny how the newer generations suffer from “instant gratification syndrome”. People forget the work and effort necessary to achieve anything worth achieving. Your NO BS approach is commendable as is your respect for the reputations of others.

That’s why you two are so damn successful. You know what it takes and don’t shy away from the work. Anyone that dismisses your hard earned advice is a fool to say the least.

“Chance favors the prepared” is one of my favorite sayings and goes along with what you mention. Work your ass off so that WHEN you get that once in a lifetime opportunity, you’re ready, not still fumbling and figuring things out.

By: Joke

Joke — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:03:50 +0000

@Nicofopolous Thanks for your “not a Debbie Downer” vote! You are 100% correct: it’s not easy to break in to Hollywood, and if you can’t enjoy the journey as much as your hoped-for destination, then go do something else.

@Travis You have the right attitude. “Can do” beats “Can’t do” every day of the week.

@Phil – thanks. BS doesn’t help anyone. In this particular case, the straight-talk I gave to an aspiring producer was taken as pessimism. Biagio and I prefer to know what we’re really up against, so we can figure out how to succeed.

By: Phil Holbrook

Phil Holbrook — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 05:27:10 +0000

I appreciate the post. It’s nice to get a “no bs” helping of reality with my inspiration.

By: Travis Legge

Travis Legge — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 04:44:36 +0000

As someone who is currently in the process of clawing my way into the business, I must say that this is an incredibly useful perspective. Everything you say above is 100% true in my (albeit limited) experience. It’s a tough job with harsh realities. If someone can’t accept those and find away around, under, over, or through them, then maybe showbiz isn’t the place for them.

I’m a fan of the “can-do” attitude. If someone tosses their hands in the air every time an obstacle pops up, I would imagine that life, let alone showbusiness, must be awfully difficult for them.

As always, its a pleasure to receive your wisdom!
-Travis

By: Nicofopolous

Nicofopolous — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:21:18 +0000

Not a Debbie Downer at all.

Breaking into Hollywood is just that… Breaking in. The gatekeepers and guard dogs are fierce and they’ve covered all the holes from previous break ins.

It’s also a war of attrition. It took me eight years to get my first script produced and then another four for the next one. And I’m still working the day job and writing nights and weekends.

When someone asks me what I think about being a writer, I reiterate something I’m sure everyone says… If you can imagine yourself being happy doing anything else, do that.