Q&A

Feel free to ask me a question and view my responses to questions asked by other site visitors!  Please note that I receive a lot of email and I do my best to respond, but it is impossible to answer everybody.  Thanks for visiting, and I look forward to hearing from you!

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Hi Chris, After 17 years of law enforcement, I am ready to pursue my dream of becoming an actress. I would like to take my talents from the streets to the stage. What kind of advice can you give me? Thank you in advance. God Bless
By Stacie From Rancho Murieta, CA
"Hi Stacie. The best advice I could give you is to approach acting like you did law enforcement. Whether you are a local, county, state or federal officer...you didn't just walk in say you wanted to be in law enforcement and someone said ok, here's your gun, badge, uniform and car. Now go protect and serve. I am sure there was an academy, classes, tests and qualifications you had to meet to become a distinguished member of law enforcement. Not to mention, the education you learned on the job being in the streets putting your life on the line. That being said, the qualifications and standards set in the entertainment industry aren't as rigorous as law enforcement, but it isn't easy. It took me 8 years to qualify, be invited and accepted in the Screen Actors Guild(SAG)and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artist(AFTRA). It defintely was a rights of passage event in my acting career. No ceremony...just a card. LOL!
I would recommend:
1. Take a beginner's acting classes to get you familiar with the terminology and some of the basic do's and don't's in the industry.
2. Get a industry quality headshot (not glamour shots-headshot) There is a BIG difference.
3. Register with your local casting directors so you can be submitted for projects that are in your area.
Getting registered will help give you opportunities to start building your resume. Once you start strengthening your chops, submit your resume and headshot to a agency. If called to come in and audition, have a couple of monologues ready to go. One comedic and one dramatic...if they like what they see and feel you have what it takes, they usually offer you a one year contract to represent you. That's standard...if you start booking gigs and getting work they will extend your contract. Agents don't make money unless you make money. Think of it as being a professional athlete without so many zeroes on your paycheck when you first get started. LOL! Your agent is someone who works for you. Sometimes actors loose sight of that fact.
Stacie keep in mind, that just like any other industry...there are people who will try to take advantage of you and take your money. This is where your experiences in law enforcement put you light years ahead of most people. I could share countless stories of people investing thousands of dollars to become The Next Big Star and it they end up getting taken for a ride. I share that to say: Do your homework before you invest in your career.
I hope this helps and I wish you much success as you start this new journey. Thanks for visiting my website and be blessed!
C"
Hi Chris, Sat next to you on the overcrowded SW flight tonight and thought I recognized you - it was Pride and Glory. (my 18 yr old was like - "duh mom!") Anyway, good luck to you, and thank you for the extra drink ticket! It is great to see someone local and a nice guy having such success. BTW, did you get the whatever your went down to audition for? Kathy
By Kathy Bixby From Granite Bay, CA
"Hey Kathy, how are you? That was a pretty full flight. LOL! I'm glad your son was able to help you out. I had a lot of fun working with Ed on Pride and Glory...a bit colder in NYC. Thank you for the kind words and you are welcome for the ticket. To answer your question, yes I did get the part. It was a show on NBC called Trauma. It should be airing sometime in March. Take care,
C"
Hi Chris, I stumbled upon your website and was SO excited to find you! My family has many wonderful memories of you and your family. I am passing your site info on to Nichelle and I know that she will also be thrilled to hear of all of your success. She was such a HUGE fan of your dad. Best Wishes and God Bless! Nicole Godbolt Former Beale AFB Brat
By Nicole From Sacramento, CA
"Hey Nicole, It is so nice to hear from you. Tell your mom and your sister that I said hello. Wow....I remember when you were just a little girl with a big attitude...LOL! I hope all is well. Keep in touch and thank you for the kind words. I will tell my dad you guys said hello.

C"
Chris, Not sure if you remember me from good ole Wheatland H.S. In any case,I am so happy for you and your success. This could not have happened to a better person.
By Shannon Olds Fillmer From Fort Worth, TX
"Hey Shannon, I do remember you. Thank you for the well wishes. Take care and keep in touch.

C"
You don't know me, but I've heard about you ever since my daughter, Brooke, met you when stationed at Travis. She'd say: "My friend, Chris", then tell me how you'd watch out for her and how hard you were working to make it in acting. I thought, sure, actors are a dime a dozen in CA. Well, I've changed my tune. Very glad you're doing so well - I love it when nice guys get ahead. Looking forward to seeing more of your movies. If you every get to Wisconsin (Yeh, why would you do that? 'Cause its God's Country!) know that between Brooke, Carol & us, you can have a place to stay in Southern, Central, or Northern WI!
By Gail From Park Falls, WI
"Hello to you Mama Boushon! Thank you for the kind words and the invitation. I have never been to Wisconsin, but I did have a friend that went to UW Riverfalls. He would always tell me how cold it got in the winter...LOL! Brooke and Carol are great girls! I am glad they are doing well. Thanks again for your support! Be well,

Chris"
Hello, congrats on your success. you were my manager at a club in houston,tx. just wanted to say hi.
By eddie marin-mendez
"What's up Eddie! I hope all is well with you and your family man. Be well,

C"
I was watching pride and glory on ppv tonight and I said to myself that looks like my old friend Chris Holley from UC Davis....sure enough. Great to see you doing well old friend. I split time btwn LA and SF...Lifes a trip.
By tony guilfoyle
"What's Tony? I hope all is well. Thank you for checking out Pride and Glory. I had a fun time on that project and learned a lot. I hope all is well. I will contact you offline to catch up. I got your information and will be in touch after I return to the states. Be well,

C"
Chris - I don't have a question, but I am watching "Pride and Glory", and jumped out of my seat when you appeared. "Hey! That's Chris!" You may not remember me, but I met you long ago (from the K Bar days), and we used to chat about the ol' football days (Sac State and UC Davis). The purpose of my email is to tell you how great it is to see someone become successful because THEY WORKED HARD! You set your sights on an something you wanted to accomplish, and you're doing it. How many people told you it wasn't possible? How many people told you that dreams are just that... dreams? The "me" generation is all about "taking" without getting dirty and working. Everyone wants to start with a $100k salary, and they feel entitled. You are a success because you worked hard for it, and this generation can take a lesson from you. Thomas Jefferson said, "I'm a great believer in luck and I find the harder I work, the more I have of it." When people tell you that you're lucky, smile and say, "Yes I am.", because you know it's a product of hard work. - Steve
By Steve From Sacramento, CA
"Steve:
What's up my man? Thank you for the kind words bro! We had some fun times at K-Bar! I really appreciate the things you said man. Sometimes people only see the end result and don't ask about the journey to get there. It has been a lot of hard work and I had to laugh when I read your question about how many people told me it wasn't possible...too many to mention. To their credit...they motivated me to work harder. I still have a long way to go, but I have learned to embrace the journey because nothing worthwhile in life comes easy. I would like to thank you for being apart of my journey even if it was just seeing a familar face to talk about old times in college. I wish you much success bro and thank you for your support in checking out Pride and Glory. Be well and stay in touch.

C"
Hi Chris, I dont know if you remember me from school in Wheatland, but I wanted to tell you my dad, Randy Allington has not stop talking about you since the christmas party at Master Clingans. I just wanted to thank you for making his night. He has had a rough time lately and you posing for pictures with him and giving him some autographed ones tickled him to death. We caught part of smoking aces tonight (missed the first 45 minutes) and he was so excited to see you in it. He hasn't seen any of your movies yet. He even waited until the credits so he could see your name LoL. So Thank you again and when you come back to town you'll have to let him know so he can take you to lunch. Good to hear you are doing so well! Jackie
By Jackie Bobb From yuba city, CA
"Hey Jackie, of course I remember you. That's great that your dad had a good time at the xmas party for Grandmaster Clingan. We had a fun time catching up. Your father taught me a lot while I studied under him in martial arts. Some of the things I learned I use to this very day. I will always be thankful for that and him. I will make sure to contact him the next time I am up north. I hope all is well with you and your family. Take care and thanks for contacting me."
Heya Chris, It is so nice to see your continued success over the years. (I remember seeing you in a video or two back in the day.) I was just wondering if you ever consider expanding your horizons towards producing/directing/writing? Your smile is so much like your dad's! D, (who still regrets that the best shirts she could get were those striped JimmyZ's for the Sadie Hawkins dance all those years ago LOL!) Hope you and family are well!
By D, From Moorpark, CA
"Hey D, Wow a blast from my past...LOL! Thank you for the kind words. To answer your question: I have been asked to write a script and I am doing some research right now to prepare myself. I would like to do some producing and directing in the future, but just like acting it takes time, experience, and training to be able to do them successfully. I don't think it will be anytime soon. Most of my efforts are focused on being a good actor and establishing myself in the entertainment industry. I am sure my best is yet to come, so stay tuned! Thanks for visiting my website and have a great holiday season! Keep in touch and be well,

C"
Hi Chris Watched "Pride and Glory" the other week, got to say one it's one of the best films i have seen this year. I have a realy random question to ask you...you was wearing a big navy or black bomber jacket, my bf fell in love with it lol and I was wondering if you could narrow my search down for me (cheeky of me I know). Anyway back to you I loved your work in Smoking aces, keep up the good work ;) Hope to see more from you!! Summer Xx..
By Summer From LONDON
"Hey Summer!
Thanks for going to see Pride and Glory. I am glad you enjoyed it. To answer you question about the black bomber jacket I wore in the movie: It was made by Nike. It was a LeBron James editon down bomber jacket. It's a real heavy and warm coat being that it was about 18 degrees when we shot that particular scene. I hope this narrows your search enough for you to get it for your boyfriend.
I am glad you liked Smokin Aces...I will let you in on a little secret...we are going to do Smokin Aces 2: Blowback! It's a PREQUEL so...Beanie lives! LOL...It should be a lot of fun. Make sure to look for it in late 2009. Thanks for visiting my website and have a beautiful holiday season. Take care,

C"
Hey Chris congratulations on all your success with hopefully much more to come. I was a fan as soon as I found out you were from Sac. I was just wondering what kind of tips you can give me if I am intrested in getting into acting? Just what kind of steps and obstacles I would endure along the way. And what kind of training is available. Also what kind of obstacles you went through and what made you stick to it? Like I said congradulations on all your success.
By Jason From Sacramento, CA
"Jason:
Thanks for your support. It's much appreciated. I would say if there was any advice I could give if you are interested in getting involved with acting is: Take an acting class to get a better understanding of the terminology used on a set, what to do and not to do on an audition, how much is too much to pay for headshots...some basic things to keep you from wasting time and money. As far as obstacles, there will be plenty from friends and family telling you not to do it to simple rejection from the industry. I think once you get started you will find out if acting is for you or not. I wish you the best of luck and thanks again for the support and visiting my website. Take care and be well.

C"
Hi Chris! Just a "shout out" to say congrats on all your great work. We worked on a few Thunder Valley and Cache Creek "gigs" together. Your progress and track record have been phenominal! Not to mention, I see you at least 4x a football game on "Any Given Sunday/Monday"! ;-) US or Canada! Keep up the great work! "Break a leg"!!!
By Michael From Roseville, CA
"Thanks Michael...I appreciate all the support. Take care,

C"
No Questions, I am just proud of you and what you have accomplished my friend. You truly are an inspiration to me. Every time I hear your name I always smile with Joy. Thinking of you always. Nancy
By nancy ruiz From roseville, CA
"Thank you so much for your kind words Nancy! I wish you all the best!

C"
I don't have any question for you. Just wanted to say congratulations to you since I found out you are from the Sacramento Area. I have seen 21, loved the movie. Again congrats and best of luck. CM
By Carol Mondine From Sacramento, CA
"Carol:
Thank you for visiting my website and the well wishes! I am glad you enjoyed 21. I had fun working on that project. Take care,

Chris"
Hello Chris, Have you let your fan's know that they can see you in person @ the Dare to Dream Campaign at Sheldon High School and Sacramento High... We appreciate your willingness to have show "unity in the community"
By stealth From sacramento, CA
"Stealth:
Thanks for visiting my site. Unfortunately, I did not get send out a blast to some of my supporters to let them know that I would be a guest speaker for the Dare to Dream event...my apologies. I have another Dare to Dream event on May 3. When I get more of the details I will definitely post something on my website. Thank you for your comment. Take care,

C"
Chris! I just discovered your site and love it! Wanted to drop you a line and express my excitement over your continued success. I loved your work in Smokin' Aces - it was one of the most incredibly well cast movies of the year. What an awesome opportunity! My question is: What has been the most rewarding part of working in the entertainment industry thus far? Thanks and I hope to see more of your work in the future!
By Tiffany From Saint Paul, MN
"Tiffany:
Thank you so much for you kind words. I really appreciate it. Smokin Aces was an incredibly opportunity and experience. It is hard to put into words the feeling I got from working with such a talented cast. To answer you question, It is hard to give one specific thing as the most rewarding aspect of working in this industry. I would have to say growth and what I mean by that is on different levels:Personally, Professionally, Mentally, Spiritually, and Financially. Personally: I love what I do, but I had no idea how it would affect people. I had no idea how far a performance could travel. How many languages a movie would be translated into. I have received mail from as far as Hungary. When people tell you that you inspire them to go after their dreams, it has an incredible impact. When you can be apart of something that allows people to escape their everyday lives no matter how good or bad to be simply entertained is a beautiful thing. The other side of the coin: People that didn't like my performance, help me as well. Good or bad, those instances have allowed me to grow and want to give the best performance I can no matter how small or how large my part is in any production.
Professionally: I have grown because of the talent that I have been able to work with and the knowledge shared with me about our craft. Joe Carnahan taught me that it doesn't matter where you come from, it's where your at that matters. Andy Garcia shared with me things he learned from Francis Ford Coppola. The way Ryan Reynolds develops a character. How Piven can go to such a dark place over and over again...amazing. Taraji Henson's ability to create and sustain an energy in a performance is incredible. Ed Norton's attention to detail...I could go on and on. These are things that I consider priceless and feel blessed to have experienced.
Mentally: I have grown because I realize that you can never learn enough. That is the beautiful thing about what I do...a new project means a new character. A character that has to be researched and developed and made my own. How far can I stretch myself? Am I ready?
Spiritually: I have grown because everything that has happened to me is not of my own doing. I don't know your belief, but it is a very humbling feeling to know that there is something larger than what I might want my life to be and what I want to achieve.
Finacially: This one is pretty self explanatory. The pay is pretty good? LOL.

Tiffany to be honest with you, I didn't expect to write this much when I first read your question. I want to thank you for asking it because it was a nice way for me to say I am very thankful for the life I have and it is a reward in itself. Nothing in life worthwhile comes easy. I have worked pretty hard and still have a long way to go, but I wouldn't change it for the world. I do have a few movies that will be out soon: Cover is out in theaters now; 21 will be in theaters on March 28th and Pride and Glory is due out sometime in early April. I wish you the best and thank you for visiting my site. Take care,

C"
Chris, I noticed that your fan club hasnt started yet. That is such a shame! I am your #1 fan! I have seen all your work! I even raced against you in college! How do I hook that up?
By Micah From Boulder, CO
"LOL! What's up Micah? I hope all is well with you man. Actually people have signed up for my fan club...I just don't have anything to give them right now...no hats, no t-shirts. My web administrator is working out some things and then we will post instructions. Take care,

C"
Hi Chris, Iam 17 years old, and Iam looking for a agent in LA, I will be in LA 2/18/08-2/22/08 I just saw your web site and thought I ask you I know its late I can send you pictures of me and my Resume. Thanks, Jacqueline Leckey
By Jacqueline Leckey From Sacramento, CA
"Jacqueline:
Hey, how are you doing? It is good that you have your headshots and resume, but I think what would be more beneficial to you is if you have a mononlogue prepared. Most agents would like to see you perform before they would make a decision to sign you. I apologize for not getting back to you sooner. This information might be getting to you a little too late. Contact me after your trip and let me know how it went. What did you learn from it? Take care and break a leg!

C"
Chris, Can I get some love too? I had to argue with Travis Jr for months before he would believe that was you in Smoking Aces. Loved your performance and I am very proud of you!! Way to Represent! Travis' lil sis, Teri
By Teri From DeSoto, TX
"LOL! Teri! What's up girl? Isn't just like your brother to not believe you? LOL! It is great to hear from you. I hope all is well. Definitely keep in touch. Tell your parents I said hello. Your brother has my personal information. Give me a call some time soon. Take care,

C"
Chris, A BIG CONGRATS TO YOU!!! I saw the movie and my sister Teri swore up and down that Beanie was you. I said NOPE - Don't you think I would recognize Chris if I saw him? Well, I was wrong but no worries - Diane set me straight! It's good to see you following your heart & staying grounded, but I want you to BLOW UP - BIG and represent! I'm proud of you. Keep it coming. I will watch all your films now that I know it's really you! (smiles) Travis Robinson P.S. Here's my question, how do I gain weight? It's ridiculous that I am not much bigger now that when we were in High School.
By Travis Robinson From New York, NY
"LOL! Tricky T! What's up man! Yeah that was me. Thanks for the well wishes. I can't believe you haven't gain any weight since high school. I will contact you off line so we can catch up. Good hearing from you bro!

C"
Hey, Chris, not really a question, but I just wanted to thank you again for the excellent class you did at JC Academy. I live downtown, (and work across from the Capitol building) so if you have time, it would be cool if we could hang out sometime. If not, that's cool. I can imagine you're a pretty busy guy. Thanks again, -Adam Sartain
By Adam Sartain From Sacramento, CA
"Adam, no problem. I hope the information I shared with you and the rest of the class is beneficial to you and your career. Things can get real hectic at the Capitol and I am not there as much as used to be due to some of my up and coming projects, but I am sure we could grab lunch or something. Soon I will be posting my schedule of my whereabouts on my website. Be sure to check it and send me an email. Take care,

C"
Congratulations on your success and Thank You for always keeping it real. To date, which character did you enjoy playing the most and why? And what type of challenging role/character would you like to play in the future. Much love and respect always, The Price & Mack Family.
By Diane & Raymond Price From Sacramento, CA
"Thank you for giving me props! I will always try to keep it real until....keeping it real goes wrong. LOL! My close friends are what keep me grounded through this journey that I am on and I appreciate them more than they will ever know.

To date, the character I most enjoyed playing was Beanard Beanie Alfonso from Smokin Aces. The reason why is because it was my first big time Hollywood movie as a principal character. The all-star cast that was brought together for that project was phenomenal! The director set a tone and created an environment that made me feel like I was apart of something bigger. The friendships I made during that process are ones I will have for a very long time. I feel blessed to have been able to be apart of it.

The part that I would love to play is something that would take away from my physical presence. A character that might have some type of physical handicap. It is easy to be type-casted in this industry. I think it would show more diversity to be considered for other roles.

Thank you so much for you questions and your continued support. Big UPS to the Price/Mack Family.

Much love,
C"
Chris, I just wanted to say that it was an honor and awesome experience working with you on Team Room. Your advice and experience about the industry was inspiring as well as thought provoking. Light, Camera, Action! Sheila Ellis-Sacramento, CA
By Sheila From Sacramento, CA
"Sheila:
The pleasure was mine. Your excitement and enthusiasm about the industry is incredible. I can't wait to to see the finished product. I had a lot of fun working on Team and being able to film something in my home town. Thank you for the kind words and I wish you the best.

C"
Tell us about the movie , TEAM ROOM, and how you got involved in the film. My friend is recruiting extras for shooting a basketball game scene at a local high school (Mira Loma).
By Mary Shortz From Fair Oaks, CA
"Mary:
I hope all is well. I think Alexander did a fantastic job in explaining what TEAM ROOM is about on his website:www.teamroomthemovie.com. He gives a summary and background story on the characters in his production.

A friend of mine is a producer for this movie. She got in contact with me and asked if I would do her a favor and read a couple of scripts and give her some feed back. After I read her scripts, I gave her a call and we began a discussion about her scripts. When I got to TEAM ROOM I told her that it reminded me of when I played high school basketball. She asked me if I would consider playing one of the characters. I didn't think that I would be able to because I had a lot on my plate with upcoming projects. Then the writers went on strike and change the scheduling of the movies I was currently working on. It looked like I would be able to spend the holidays in Sacramento and be able to help my friend out on one of her projects. I think it is important to not forget where you came from. I got my first big break in Sacramento and it is great that Alexander is coming back to his home town and giving back. He has a very bright future. Hope to see you out there. Take care,

C "
Chris: I had the pleasure of meeting you at the Wheatland High School Centennial Homecoming game, my group was seated in front of you. At one of my classmates suggestion you started a wave and instantly all eyes were on you! It was the high point of the day. You had everyone there involved due to your charm and upbeat personality! Best wishes with what will obviously be a long and successful career! John McCarter WHS 75
By John McCarter From Chico, CA
"John:
Thanks for well wishes! I had a good time visiting with old classmates and seeing the history of our alma mater! It was the first time I ever sat and watched the Pirates play...I was usually playing in the game. LOL! Well, at least we can say we gave WHS a little spirit from the decades of it's past! Take care,

Chris

Chris"
Hey Chris, remember Houston? Send me a note. Glad you are doing well. Saw you in Smokin and I couldn't believe it was you/. Best Wishes, Don
By Don Harbich From San Ramon, DE
"Big Don Harbich! How are you doing sir? It is great to hear from you. I just saw Mike Cardinale a couple of days ago. How could I forget Houston...I had some of my best experiences with 24 hour fitness in Houston, TX.

I am glad you got a chance to check out Smokin Aces. I had a lot of fun filming it. My next movie will be with Ed Norton, Colin Farrell and Jon Voight. It's called Pride and Glory. We filmed in New York. It's a small role, but I learned a lot. Thanks for visiting my website. I hope all is well with your family. Take care and keep in touch.

Chris."
This is not a question...I just wanted to thank you for taking a moment to talk to our acting students. Your presence was definitely appreciated. May you continue to inspire others.. Thank you again. Le Reca Monik
By Le Reca Monik From sacramento, CA
"Your very welcome. Thank you for inviting me. You have a great program. I wish you continued success in providing an opportunity for local actors to learn the necessary building blocks to succeed. Take care,

C"
hey chris,very nice page. i just wanted to know if your lines in smokin aces to the prostitutes were adlibbed or not. mainly the "kick rocks" line and "you forgot your hat" which made me crack up. thanks for your time. by the way,a friend of mine lives in fargo and dickinson. small world,bro. -Scott
By Scott Polidore From Toledo, OH
"Scott:
Thanks for the props on my web page! It still has a long way to go, so make sure to revisit it in the near future. To answer your question: Some of my lines were written and others were improv. Joe Carnahan is a phenomenal director where he allowed the actors to give input on dialogue. During that particular scene, the way it was written I didn't feel my character would say things that way. When we did a run through of the scene I told him that I didn't think the character Beanie would say it that way. He told me to go with what I felt. Hence, kick rocks was born. If you could have seen some the out takes you would have laughed even harder...the problem was we(me, the stunt girls, and Common) couldn't keep a straight face through the scene so we had to keep going back to one. I hope this answered your question. Thanks again for checking out my site. Take care,

C"
A quick note to thank you for taking the time to discuss your career at JC Academy tonight 10/10/07. Your discussion was very engaging and my 12 year old daughter took alot from it. She enthusiastically repeated almost everything you said over dinner tonight to her father. It was a pleasure meeting you! Thanks for sharing your experiences! Sincerely, Holly Keney Lindsey Keney's mom
By Holly From Sacramento, CA
"Holly:
No need to thank me, the pleasure was all mine. I wish Lindsey much success in this business. Feel free to ask me any questions along the way. Take care.

Chris"

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