Student Films Episodes

In this episode of Two Unemployed Actors, Max Belmonte sits down with the multi-talented Michelle Danner, a renowned Acting Coach, Director, Producer, and Actor. The conversation explores Danner’s extensive career, offering a masterclass in filmmaking and the dedication required to succeed in Hollywood. Danner begins by discussing her film The Italians, describing it as a "love letter" to her heritage. She highlights the joy of working with a generous cast, including Abigail Breslin and many long-time collaborators. This theme of loyalty continues as she reflects on Miranda’s Victim, a historical drama featuring industry icons like Donald Sutherland and Andy Garcia. Danner shares a humorous yet harrowing story about contracting a serious infection from prop smoke while directing under strict COVID-19 protocols, emphasizing the resilience needed on set. The discussion shifts to her international work, specifically Under the Stars, filmed in Italy. Danner shares her excitement about…

Episode 107: International Casting Secrets, "Verticals," and AI with Helene Rousse In this episode, Max Belmonte dives deep into the shifting world of international casting with Helene Rousse, a powerhouse Montreal-based Casting Director and founder of Total Casting. With over 35 years of experience spanning talent agent work, acting, and world-class casting, Helene shares the "Formula 1" approach to navigating today’s digital industry. From the surprising explosion of "Vertical" series to th...

Episode 105: The "Slasher" Life & Strategic Pivots In this episode, Max Belmonte returns from a hiatus to break down the reality of being a "slasher" in the Australian screen industry—balancing Acting, Producing, and corporate presenting & voice over work. He discusses the tactical decision to shift his TV pilot project into a short film proof-of-concept and shares a behind-the-scenes look at changing agents and staying "work fit." Episode Highlights [00:00:43] The Multi-Hyphenate Reality...

Episode 100: The Milestone, the Memories, and the New Mission In this landmark 100th episode of Two Unemployed Actors, host Max Belmonte reflects on the journey from a 20-year corporate career to becoming a dedicated Actor and Producer. This isn't just a look back; it’s a strategic deep dive into what it takes to survive and thrive in the Australian screen industry. We revisit the highs, the lows (including a Subaru-induced Vespa accident), and the incredible insights shared by world-class...

Show Notes: Episode 91 – Acting vs. Survival Jobs In this episode, Max and Sam reunite to discuss the high-wire act of balancing a creative career with real-world responsibilities. From the philosophy of survival jobs to the launch of a new production company, it’s an honest look at what it takes to stay "work-fit" in the Australian screen industry. Key Highlights The "Big Magic" Philosophy: Sam discusses moving out and the importance of having a survival job that funds your passion witho...

Episode 86: A Lot Can Go Wrong on Set Release Date: Mar 17, 2022 Hosts: Max Belmonte & Sam Folden Episode Overview We’ve all had those days on set where things don't go according to plan, but some stories are in a league of their own. In this episode, Max & Sam share a collection of "on-set horror stories" from their own careers and the wider industry. From rogue student film Directors to exploding "honey wagons," we explore the chaotic, hilarious, and sometimes dangerous side of the sc...

Two Unemployed Actors | Episode 60: On-Set Intensity, Audition Secrets, and Showreel Essentials What does it really take to film an intense, emotional drama under strict on-set restrictions? In this episode, Max and Sam catch up on a busy wave of end-of-year projects, breaking down the exact mechanics of their latest film shoots, upcoming theatre rehearsals, and the vital tools every Actor needs to stay bookable. Max dives deep into his experience filming the AFTRS short Water Under the Br...

Are creative self-tapes completely rewriting the rules for modern casting? In this episode of Two Unemployed Actors, Max and Sam dive straight into the reality of the acting hustle. They break down a massive week of on-set experiences, discuss a creative shift in audition tapes, and explore how actor branding is evolving in the modern screen industry. Timestamps & Key Topics 00:00 – Welcome & The Fatman Trailer: The boys catch up and share their hilarious, confused reactions to Mel Gibson...

Episode 55: Flat-Packs, Fast Self-Tapes & Voiceover Niche Moving house is stressful enough, but what happens when your agent drops multiple back-to-back commercial auditions into your inbox before you’ve even unpacked your first box? In this episode, Max and Sam unpack (literally and figuratively) the relentless pace of the acting grind, how to set up a home studio on the fly, and the strategic side of launching a voiceover career. Plus, we talk about the surreal experience of spotting your o...

Two Unemployed Actors — Episode 53 In this episode, Max and Sam unpack the sheer variety of the working actor’s life. From local indie short films and voiceover wins to massive multi-channel commercial studios, the boys share the unpolished truth of a week on the hustle in Australia. Plus, a peek at the upcoming studio relocation! Episode Timestamps 00:00 — Welcome & Coffee: Surviving the lockdown hustle. 00:30 — Max’s Big Day: Voiceover wins and securing a new corporate wine-presenting g...