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i have spoke with the tongue of angels


They say that when you have an audition, you have to walk in there like you don't give a shit. You walk in there like you don't give a shit, and you walk out with the part, because if you don't give a shit, that's when they want you.

But you've read the script, and it is good. So good, in fact, you fall in love with it. You fall madly, passionately, crazy in love with the script, and you'll do anything to be one of the people chosen to bring the script to life.

You think about it all the time. You wake up in the middle of the night, imagining what it would be like to spend ten weeks on location or four seasons on the set. You get lost on your way to the post office, because you're wondering who your competition is. You can't eat, you can't sleep, you can't focus on anything else . . . you are in love, after all.



In the days before your audition, you do everything you can to be ready. First, you get to know your character. If you're lucky, he's a guy you know. Maybe he's even you. Not the current you, usually, but still You. A younger you, a more passionate you, a more idealistic you; the You who you were before you fell in love with too many scripts and had your heart broken too many times to count . . . the you who was incapable of walking in there like you didn't give a shit, because it felt so good to be in love. Then you learn your lines. You spend hours in your house or your apartment reading them out loud, scaring your dogs, worrying your neighbors, annoying your roommates who are sick to death of hearing about The Script. They've heard it all before, and you've made an unspoken pact among you: you don't tell them how crushed you are when you don't get the job, and they pretend not to notice how you wear the same clothes and drink heavily for five days after you get The Call.

The day of the audition finally comes. Your first date. Your big date. Your only date. You spend too much time putting yourself together. You carefully choose your clothes and style your hair a minimum of three different times. Maybe you spray on some cologne, because it makes you feel attractive. Maybe.

You drive to the studio, and hope your voice doesn't break when you tell the guard that you're going to Bungalow 15. You park, walk across the lot, and your palms sweat when you sign in. You wait for what seems like an eternity, surrounded by actors who are younger, taller, better looking than you. Actors who clearly don't give a shit because they don't have to. You know that they don't love The Script like you do, haven't put in the time that you have . . . but it doesn't matter. You've been here before and you'll be here again, long after they've left for location.

Your heart throbs in your chest when they call your name. You smile, take a deep breath, and stand up.

And then you walk into the room, and you're supposed to act like you don't give a shit.

Yeah. Right.

Comments

*crossing my fingers for you*

wow..
don't sugar coat it for me wil...
how do you REALLY feel about auditions..
;)

jez kiddin man..

i get the same way before i show a client my designs
(im in advertising, graphics etc)
it's nerver wracking as hell...

i'm sending mega mojo in your direction dude..
one of these days soon, 'the call' will be 'THE CALL!'
(all caps indicating a good call, of course)

cheers man
tyson

So um like... I don't know... I could really care less... but um... yeah... WHAT HAPPENS NEXT. I'm about to fall off my chair. Nice work on that entry! I like it.

I'm glad you do give a shit wil, because the world needs more people like you! Thanks!

I wish I could write as well too!

john

You just made us all know what it's like to give a shit. Put this into the next book. For reals, yo.

*fingers crossed, now with the power of Typekey* Hope I"m not posting this twice...Anyway good luck!

You just made me understand what it's like to give a shit. Put this in the next book.

*fingers crossed, now with the power of Typekey* Hope I"m not posting this twice...Anyway good luck!

I'm glad you do give a shit Wil. The world needs more people like you! Thanks.

I wish I could write as well as you do too.

john

Good luck, Wil!

Good luck, Wil!

Ahh to be an actor ;) This will be the one!

It sucks having your heart ripped out of your chest so many times. Why can't they ever fall in love with the one who loves them? I only hope the best things for you.

I've never read your blog before tonight, but I certainly will read it again. Beautifully written.

so.... the audition went good or bad? and I'm not talking about end results, just whether or not you blew them out of the water like you're so good at doing and we know you can do!

It just doesn't get any easier does it Wil?

I missed you Wil.. just back from 3 wks
vacation!

I'll have to hunt through the history find up what
been up w/you...

Hrm... comments probably not working.

But hey, all my good thoughts your way wether you get this or not.

If there's one thing that keeps alot of WWdN readers enthralled, it's your descriptions of the audition process; how you feel before, during and after. The rest of us (except for Keith, who knows first hand himself) rarely ever hear about this side of Hollywood. Wil's version of "The Trenches," as it were.

Hope the audition went well. You seem to have quite a few of these lately...

Wow. That's the sound of my heart breaking, right there.

-hedge

I think you captured the essence perfectly Wil.

Wow. That's the sound of my heart breaking, right there.

-hedge

Wil, that just completely rocked my world. You are an amazing person. I ... just, wow. Thank you.

So.. Is this a good post about good things to come, or a good post about bad things to come?

Not giving a shit when you really do reminds me an awful bit like being broken up with.

Bad audition Wil? :(

Hang in there Wil you should have no problem getting the part. Have Faith

Are we to assume the audition didn't go so well? Chin up hun.

Good luck Wil.

Blog later on and let us know how it turns out.

Beautifully written. I'm sorry you sound somewhat upset though. =/ I don't know what I can say or do to help, so... here: *good vibes*

God damn you! Get me going only to leave me revving to high that i might blow my engine. Bastard! I haven't done that many auditions, unfortunately, but those feeling that I know all so well came rushing back as I read this. Amazing piece as usual!

So.. did you get the part? :P

Good luck Wil! I think I felt that way when I had my first interview for my first faculty job.

I very much hope you get this part! I remember your post about auditioning for Alias and was disappointed to hear that didn't work out. Actors should have the same passion for the script that you describe.

I've been in love like this... I know this feeling all too well. I once wanted a job so much that I had an anxiety attack waiting to hear back from the interviewer. FWIW: I got the job.

I think this is the first time you've gotten more comments in LiveJournal (here) than in your actual blog.

good luck wil, hope you get the part, they might want to guy who cares.

That was beautiful.

Mad mojo coming your way Wil.

I haven't commented in a while. But that one really touched me. So well written and from the heart. Wonderful. I hope, hope, hope you get it!

Btw, I wrote you an email that VH1 is doing a show in my town of Cottage Grove,OR about Stand By Me and other movies filmed here. They want people involved with the film, and our local paper said "contact anyone you know who worked on these films". You should get involved, it would be fun.

I really felt like I knew for a second what it was like to be you auditioning for a part... then I woke up to my geeky little existence. Thanks for taking me away for a bit.

Good luck BTW, I hope you get it.

PS, where is the howto information on the site to learn how to write and be an actor like you? And once you learn how do you break into the bizz? :)

Woah. Those are some ugly styles. I need to work that out.

In other news, TypeKey users should be able to comment without any difficulties now. Yay!

Good luck! Sounds like you are really into the part, and *that* makes for a good show!

I can't wait to hear how this one ends. Best of luck Wil

Greg

Wil...

I read your site often, but never really comment. I just wanted to say I happened to read your latest entry a half hour before I have to leave for rehearsal for Chekov's "Three Sisters". Anyway, I understand the passion, and I understand the heartbreak...the loss of opportunity for those that need it.

You take the chance in order to have one. It's obvious that similar to most cases, the love may not work out, but it's always there. That's what's important. I was glad to see that.

In my own way, I understand the love. It may sound odd, but similar to most cases, the heartbreak makes the love stronger.

Keep up.

You just know how to write so wonderfully.
Though I have never been in that position I felt short of breath and tense when the post came to an end...
The anticipation is intense!!!

You are a good looking guy and will land a part perfect for you soon!!!

Lots of Mojo coming your way!!

Well best of luck to you. It sounds like you fell in love with the character and story, and *that* is what really makes a show worth seeing!!!

Wow. I was there with you. I had a miraculous first date last week, and it reminded me of that day.

I heard the AUDIOBLOG, and I am BELIEVING and SEEING this for you after the table read/2nd audition.

I have been so inspired by reading your blog, that I started my own . . . mostly motivated by my desire to motivate people to keep giving what they can to Tsunami Aid. Your UNICEF link rocks. (See www.ohblahdah.blogspot.com)

Here's hoping for a miraculous 2005 for all of us -- Wil and wilheads alike.

Wil-

Wow. Exactly.

(Everything except the cologne.)

:)

Screw them Wil
Your an amazing writer.
I think you should write your own T.V. show or movie.
Then you'll win a bunch of awards.
People will start kissing your ass,
then you can say"I gave a shit about my genius work and look were I am now bitch."
Go get them, tiger.

Small consolation, but you have achieved here, in 7 paragraphs, what most actors seem to only dream about with a lifetime of work. You've transported your audience into the world you've created, held us there spellbound, and then left us aching for more.

You are an amazing writer. Good mojo being wafted your way, indeed.

Wow. That was awesome.

Don,t Know whether to say good luck or keep your head up but they both work good.:)

i know you don't want to jinx anything, but how'd it go?? i'm sending really, really good thoughts for you....

I just read the blog entry referenced above, and once again I was compelled to write you about it. I don't know quite what to say, but I am feeling so much right now. I recently was laid off from my job which was devestating, and being that I am single all the financial responcibility falls on me. I am stressed beyond belief right now. (Much like you are I guess) OK, heres the point. I went on an interview two weeks ago and came out of the office LONGING for this job, as this job would fit me so well. (My laid back and professional attitude, and the "beat" of the work enviornment is a perfect fit with me) I was called back to meet with the boss last week for a second interview, which is obviously a good thing. I was so happy! I went to meet with the boss and he was amazing as well. He talked to me in more detail about the job and it is EXACTLY what I have been looking for the last few years.

Anyway, the interview went very well, and I walked out if there desperatly wanting THIS job, NO OTHER. I have had nothing on my mind since, so I can relate to what you are feeling right now. The people in this office are amazing and I want to be apart of their team, but I guess I have to wait and see.

I just wanted to let you know that I have been praying for you and the part you are "Wanting" everynight since I heard your voice on your "Wanting" Blog entry. I heard it in your voice, and I want this for you too. :) We both can sit up at night, pace the house, and when you are up thinking, find comfort in the fact that someone else is too., :) Break a leg!

Your friend,
Quincey

My friend Andrew e-mailed me last night, and asked if this was a "good" entry, or a "bad" entry.

I told him that I wasn't sure . . . but it was an accurate reflection of where I am right now.

You know Wil, It is an AMAZING entry! What I, and other WWDN readers, love the most is your candor and willingness to get close and let us in a bit! You're the bestest! :)

Thanks for leaving us hanging. ;)

I keep crossing my fingers for you. I'm a huge fan and would love to see you in...well...pretty much anything!

I just listened to your audioblog about this audition and the movie--and more than ever I want you to get this part.

I just had to post a comment again--to really say again. What an incredible opportunity this would be for you and your fans! I'm sending major good vibes and well wishes your way.

I enjoy reading your blog, and especially liked Monday's post. I'm eager to hear how you did in the audition, and especially eager to hear more about this fantastic part! Break a leg.

That is simply, truely and exactly how it feels.

I die a little each time I audition for a project that is actually worthwhile.

Wow! Best wishes Wil! Sounds like you deserve that part! Here's hoping you nailed it!

Ok, I was going to quit my job, move to LA, and instantly find work .... now I'm too depressed. The therapy business must be killing!

This is the reason I check this site every week or so. Gold Jerry, GOLD!

Good luck, Wil! I'm sending out some good vibes for ya!

I haven't been reading long, but I have a feeling that it's almost "your time". I'm not completely sure what that means. Maybe this is the part, maybe it isn't. I pray for you as only an atheist can.

It's all a matter of knowing when to give a shit, and what to give a shit about. Hell...I've even been known to give two shits on occasion, though it's been pretty rare.

Whatever you do, don't let the shit get you down. You're better than this shit, and you can deal with this shit, 'cuz you're the shit....

Neh?

Arrrggghhhh!!!

The story was supposed to end with you telling us that you'd just gotten this fantastic part. Now I'm stuck being even more excited for you and still being in limbo. Do tell the producers to let you know quickly, if not for you, then for your thousands of adoring fans.

We need more people like you in this world
I am really glad that you give shit. It gives me some hope that there is still some good in this world when people actually care about stuff.
I hope you get that part.

I've been lurking for a while, reading and thinking, laughing. :) I had to comment on this. I know the feeling all too well from too many auditions and job interviews.. I hope things went well so we can see ya again :D

Also, after reading this.. I really must get to the bookstore.. ;)

post- mojomojomojomojomojomojo

passion is a good thing

I hope soon you write something you love that you can use yourself.

You have the gift, maybe time to reach out.

Hi there Wil, I just listened to your audioblog of "Wanting" and read your post. I will send an earnest prayer Heavenward on your behalf in hope that you get your hearts desire. I have to believe that you will get the part that will give you the fullfillment as an actor you want so much. A renewed acting career has come to many other actors NOT NEARLY AS GOOD AS YOU ARE(yes I am yelling)so it must come to you.

Ah, now it's working!

Let me add my little share to the good mojo flowing your way.

I dont say "Good Luck" because your getting hte park won't be some fluke of good fortune. I say, I want you to get it. I want you to be a part of it. And my will is driving you in that direction.

That and five bucks, of course, will get you a small coffee at Starbuck's.

I thought you would say you had this one by the end.

First time commenter and reader here. That was a real intriguing entry. I'd like to see how this one turns out.

When I was looking for a job, I would get ready for each interview exactly as if it were a first date. Get all nervous, go to the interview, totally bomb.

Then I got unemployment and HAD to apply for jobs, but didn't really care if I got them or not. I went to one job interview without even brushing my hair, no hose on my legs, not even any makeup. I didn't give a hot damn if I got the job or not.

In the interview, she began to describe the absolute perfect job for me. I couldn't believe it when I heard the pay was the same as my previous position. And they had told me I would never make as much money anywhere else!

They hired me. Not because I didn't give a damn, but because I was finally relaxed enough in an interview for them to get to know me instead of my resume. It's the best job I've ever had and I love doing it every day.

Thanks for sharing that. It definitely brought the whole "actor" thing into a perspective of humanity instead of fantasy.

You're a writer, Wil! Screw acting. You don't need it. You've got a great family, an awesome group of fans, and a terrific book.

Sure, you can go on auditions. But they don't mean much. Either they like you, or they don't. Either you're right for the part, or you're not. Big deal. Acting's just a hobby now, anyway.

As a writer, you are yourself. And that's pretty cool. Much better than any character you could ever play.

testing 1 2 3

Wil
How do you feel when you go in to an audition and see all these other better looking actors? Does your confidence level suffer? or are you even more pumped?

Wil, you've done it again: written what many of us wish we could say but don't know how to say as eloquently as you do. I hope this episode ends with you getting this role. But if it doesn't, we all know it won't be because you didn't do a damn fine job with the auditions, callbacks, etc.

Hey, I think I have a few more bags of mojo lying around here, so have another round. ***MOJO***

Ack! *falls out of chair from suspense* Now I'm going to be wondering how this went for the next few days... Well, if misery loves company, suspense should too, so now you've got all us sharing in you suspense! Hee hee.
Good luck, Wil! Hope you get The Role!

Wow! That was a good despriction, I have a school play audition Sunday, I know that's not as big as yours. But, I feel that way, like everytime I try out, I mean I really want the part and it's like you hate to see it go to someone else.

Wil, I hope this works because I haven't commented in quite some time but wanted you to know I'm sending heaps of good mojo your way! I hope hope hope you get the part! You're an awesome actor, writer, and human being.

Tracey

Wil,
I am sure you audition went well. Try to relax.

FG

what Ignatz said.

loved the audiopost

God. Auditions. They're an addiction, don't you think? Even the ones that really don't have any part for your type...you still want to go. I work. I go to school. I have a demanding schedule of hockey games I enjoy watching. But still, I audition. I audition and know I have no time for a part, should one actually be offered. There is actually a major audition coming up next weekend that I am trying my hardest to ignore. I'm just sitting here like "OK, Virginia. You work 35 hours a week. You're taking 15 hours this semester. You CAN'T do a show. CAN'T!" But it's not working out too well.

Enough steam of consciousness. Break a leg, Wil! I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you.

Brilliant blog. As a fellow blogger I have to say your writing is entrancing as always Wil. Yes, you truly rawk like the amazing blogger you are!!!Now swallow your heart and pull up your boot straps, the audition is yours if you grab it by the balls. And for god sakes, stop giving a crap.

Great entry, as per usual, you bring new meaning to "personal"

I'm crossing my fingers for you, as I am sure we all are.

Wow. That was one of the most compelling posts you've written in a long time. Way to go Wil

With you a good movie would only be better.

Did you ever explain the blue hair? Did you lose a bet?

The best of luck to you!!!!!

Wil:
OK, now I REALLY hope you get the part because now I REALLY want to see you in it!!!!!!

:)

Break a leg!

Scott

Good to hear you're still getting the auditions, at least.

By the way, it's pushing 2 months since Slashdot's "Ask Wil Wheaton Anything" thread - when are we going to see the responses?

Wil, it is 100% guaranteed that every person auditioning gives a shit.

Good luck to you, Wil - but, regardless...that was a good fucking piece of writing.

A kiss from Italy ;)

did you get a Call back? please update us :)

Incredible writing, Wil. Your exposing and sharing the emotion of an audition in this post was wonderful to read. I have to admit that you are the reason I started my own blog and you are an inspiration for me in pursuing acting (even if I have no hope of making a living at it).

Break a leg, Wil.

S

My grandmother used to say: if it's "bescherkt" it will happen. In other words, if it's meant to be. But I'm crossing my fingers for you anyway. Whatever it is, I'm sure you'll be great in it.
:-)

I'm really liking the U2 titles you do.

Keep that up, it's very catchy. I swear I think I'm the only person who picks up on it.

It's unfortunate that the script doesn't have a say in the matter.

I try to imagine that I've gone ahead in time and already gotten whatever job I'm auditioning for. I try to keep remembering how smoothly it went when I was in there.

I try.

Good luck, Wil.

Any news? Garrrrr... I hope it works out :)

*pokes typekey thing*
When'dja do that?
But...nope. Its not that big a deal. Good luck anyway.
OOh...Youre on Spike TV.

When you first posted this and I couldn't comment- I wanted to say- I know the feeling. Had an audition for my uni's showcase. Nothing major, nothing important really- no one ever gets an agent from it anyway.
But I still wanted it badly.
Luckily, I'm through that stage.

Now have the fun about panicing about drama school apps. I'm a few stages behind you in the profession, you see. ;)

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