Filmmaker, acting coach, and wrestling aficionado Mike Messier
Mike Messier’s childhood fascination with professional wrestling led him to dreams of sportscasting, which in turn led to a career in acting, filmmaking, and coaching.
In this interview, you’ll learn how he advanced his career and turned his attention to training other actors while managing a mental illness. Follow @mikemessier
Listen to the interview and read the notes below
Quote of the Day
“Live in the moment. Die in the memory.” —Mike Messier
3 Lessons from Interview
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How an introverted kid from Fairfax, VA ended up acting alongside Cybill Shepherd and Meryl Streep
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How Mike turned a psychiatric hospitalization and a fascination with wrestling into a series of short films, Wrestling with Sanity
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The key reason Mike was able to produce his short film The Nature of the Flame, which debuted at the 2014 Rhode Island International Film Festival
Featured Books
Moviemakers’ Master Class by Laurent Tirard
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Interviews with 20 of the world’s greatest directors on how they make films—and why
Making Movies by Sidney Lumet
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A professional memoir and definitive guide to the art, craft, and business of the motion picture
Zen and the Art of Making a Living by Laurence Boldt
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How to identify and create work that you really want to do
Getting to Know Mike Messier
What is a helpful habit?
Reading and really engaging with books I read. Check out my list of motivational and inspirational books about filmmaking and other topics at mikemessier.wordpress.com/mikes-school-of-progress/books-to-read.
What is a helpful resource for you?
The Industry Insiders Facebook group
Who is a helpful person that helped you on your journey?
Barry Primus, an acting teacher who trained me and inspired me to start my C.O.R.E. acting training class
What is your purpose on this planet?
To entertain, to inform, to educate, to engage, to enjoy
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Celia Ho
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