Life is so filled with adversity. We chase our tails. We search for what's real, what is tangible, what isn't lost in the realm of chaos and possibility. The thing is, we've all been kicked in the gut. We've all had rude awakenings. We've all had to reassess our own lives. I find it utterly intriguing to get sucked into the vortex of "acceptability" only to realize there's no real need. When you start working in the world of Entertainment - correction: in the Film, TV, and Fashion industries, you are taught one very valuable lesson. That lesson? NEVER stray too far from your circle of trusted people. Why? Because as you climb the ladder, you encounter more "crazy". More "takers". More people that just want to utilize your "connections". That's the real beauty of everything in life, isn't it? It is a very secret world: film. A world I am so happy in. A little family for 3 months that allows you to get lost in your own imagination. A family that understands the world you envision. A world that is plentiful in art and creativity, a world that exists for those who have the ability to call "bullshit" before it even enters the room. It's a gift. But I appreciate other artists. I appreciate those who are following their dreams. The ones who can see past the confining world around them and dare to dream. Dare to risk it all for a chance at something spectacular...
I have spent the last 16 years working with the very best in this Industry. I knew from the beginning I didn't want mediocre. I wanted "A" list or nothing. Why? Because what's the point in wasting your time with people you can't respect? Don't admire? Now let's be clear. "A" list is ideally the creme de la creme, but it is also the epitome of those who do not listen to the average bear say what is and what is not possible. The "A" lister is the dreamer among dreamers. The one that pushes through bankruptcy (Coppola), challenges creativity (Lucas), questions our existence (Spielberg), and dares to live in a beautiful world (Domingo). I'll never forget the 1st Academy event I went to. I met Pedro Almodóvar and I was an instant fan. The film being nominated: Woman on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown. A film that captures the true fragility of a woman; the vulnerability of a human being. It was one of those movies that allowed you to explore the realm of human emotion. He was gracious and kind and really endearing and in the end, my motivation was realized. If we have the fortunate opportunity to work in the Entertainment industry, we cannot waste our voice. We also cannot allow toxic people in. It's a very odd journey but one, as I have found out, allows you to realize your passions, expand on your dreams, and speak your mind = loudly and without censorship.
I have learned a lot. This business has taught me a lot. Beware of what is not real and envelop what is. I have a track history with the "real" and the truly artistic. It is a welcome part of my life. I am grateful but I also know if it wasn't for who I am, I would never have experienced such exquisite perfection. Listen, if you are creative - truly creative, embrace that. Don't allow the outside world to interfere with your process. They will always try. Darkness will always attempt to envelop your sunshine but just remember what matters. I work in the Film world because I understand it. It is creative and real and full of diversity. I am at home with diversity. 16 years is a long time. I am beyond grateful for all I've been fortunate enough to be exposed to and know that the world on the rise - the career that is about to catapult is truly a gift. In addition, I have found - or rather accepted - my very own Mr. Big. An idea of someone. The culmination of all good things if you will. Not one man, but an ideal version of one. Hence, the name: Mr. Big and not something like, Sam. Sometimes life, love, career, possibility, dreams, hope, the processing of good and bad - it just happens. I cannot fathom a world without it.
