David Chiu

I can barely think straight. The only reason why I’m able to still walk and talk is my massive consumption of caffeine in the form of coffee, tea and various energy drinks. Since my last entry I’ve worked non-stop on freelance projects and slept 4-5 hours each night. It’s my own fault really. I didn’t have to take on all the projects I have, but these freelance projects pay off our debt and keep me in acting class. I just wish it was as easy to get acting jobs as it is for me to get freelance work. If it was, I’d be working more than Ryan Seacrest and his multiple TV and radio shows.

Things have been pretty good lately - other than feeling like I’m going to pass out from exhaustion. Last Sunday I brought back my Vin Diesel/Boiler Room monologue to class and rocked it. I felt a great connection with the monologue, the room and my audience. Lisa’s first remark in her critique was “That was a great performance for another teacher.” She went on to explain that although my performance would have been viewed by many other actor coaches as solid and “great”, she wanted me to connect even deeper to the emotions. She wanted me to completely manifest the quiet confidence of power and assuredness. The confidence of power players. But overall, she really liked my performance and said that this was a really good piece for me.

I also auditioned for a USC and a UCLA student film this week. Basically I view these student projects as a possibility to connect with the future power players in Hollywood. You never know who might be the next Spielberg, Tarantino, Rodriguez, etc. You also never know what student project might end up being the next Napolean Dynamite.

Yesterday I had a McDonald’s audition as a politician’s aide. I was pretty exhausted going in and I hope I summoned up enough energy for the filming.

I also received a mass email yesterday from a friend who booked ANOTHER guest starring role on a prime-time show. It’s hard not to be envious especially when I’m the same “type” as he is and I didn’t even get called in for an audition.

On another note, I really feel for Gina on the show America’s Next Top Model (let me explain - I’m married and my wife controls the Tivo). Gina had a horrible interview with Tyra and the judges in the first show when she started off strong about being Asian but then went on to say she’s confused with her identity.This effects her confidence. I understand exactly how she feels. Unfortunately I don’t think she will make it very far in the competition unless she is able to resolve her issues really quickly. Instead I think this will end up being a great learning experience for her. She should be proud that she has even made it this far. I don’t think Asians have been represented at all on that show.

BTW, I’m looking through the breakdowns on various online casting sites and it’s really annoying to see roles labeled as: ALL AMERICAN GUY/Caucasian. I’ve NEVER seen ALL AMERICAN GUY/All Ethnicities. Why is that? Can I not be an ALL AMERICAN GUY since I’m Asian?