What actually happens behind closed doors when filming an intimate or vulnerable scene? In Episode 111 of Two Unemployed Actors, host Max Belmonte sits down with SAG-AFTRA accredited intimacy coordinator, filmmaker, and Actor Michela Carattini (founder of Key Intimate Scenes) to demystify on-set intimacy coordination.
Michela breaks down how the industry has shifted from chaotic, unsafe practices to structured, consent-based choreography. She shares practical advice on how Actors can advocate for themselves, explains why simulated intimacy triggers real biological responses (adrenaline, cortisol, oxytocin), and discusses the legal, cultural, and mental health realities of working on modern film and television sets.
💡 In this episode, we dive into:
• Behind Closed Sets: How intimacy coordinators work with directors and cast to choreograph sensitive scenes safely.
• The Biology of "Pretend": Why your nervous system doesn't know the difference between real and simulated trauma, and how actors can de-role.
• The Evolution of the Role: From early theatrical choreography pioneers to HBO's The Deuce and modern screen productions.
• Power Dynamics & Cultural Competency: Navigating consent, hierarchy, and race on set.
• Filming During COVID-19: Working on major international productions like Nine Perfect Strangers under strict health protocols.
• The Business & Legal Side: Setting up Key Intimate Scenes, securing industry-first insurance coverage, and managing liability.
• Balancing the Hustle: Wearing multiple hats as an Actor, Writer/Director (Carmen & Bolude), and entrepreneur.
⚠️ Content Advisory:
This episode contains discussions of sensitive themes, including depictions of sexual violence, past onset injuries, and mental health challenges in the screen industry. Listener/viewer discretion is advised.
Connect with Michela Carattini:
• Website: Key Intimate Scenes (https://www.keyintimatescenes.com)
🎬 Key Topics & Timestamps:
00:00 – Episode Teaser
00:43 – Host Introduction & Topic Overview
01:28 – Content Advisory
01:54 – Michela’s Acting Journey & the "Crop Rotation" Career Approach
04:06 – Directing Carmen & Bolude and Navigating Vulnerability
07:33 – Past On-Set Realities: Why Intimacy Coordination Became Essential
08:12 – Women in Theatre and Screen (WITS) Forums & Industry Disclosures
10:49 – The Biology of "Pretend": Hormones, Stress, and Nervous System Impact
11:47 – History and Global Pioneers of Intimacy Coordination
15:00 – Decolonizing the Practice: Cultural Competency & Power Dynamics
16:58 – Coordinating on Nine Perfect Strangers During COVID-19
20:03 – Founding Key Intimate Scenes, Legal Liabilities & First-Ever Insurance
23:10 – The Actor's Advantage: Speaking the Cast's Language on Set
25:30 – What Closed Set Protocols Actually Look Like
29:15 – Script Analysis, Rider Check-ins & Establishing Boundaries Early
32:45 – Collaborating with Directors & Intimacy Choreography Mechanics
36:10 – Modesty Garments, Barriers, and Kit Essentials
39:20 – Self-Advocacy: Exact Words Actors Can Use When Boundaries Blur
42:05 – Post-Scene De-Roling and Mental Health Care
43:40 – Where to Find Michela Carattini & Episode Wrap-Up
If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the LIKE button, SUBSCRIBE to the channel, and share this with your fellow actors who need to hear Peter's advice today! 🎭✨
🎙️ ABOUT TWO UNEMPLOYED ACTORS: Two Unemployed Actors is the podcast for Actors who are looking for the "next role." Hosted by Max Belmonte, we bring you authentic conversations with industry professionals to help you navigate the arts and keep your creative muscles working.
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