Hollywood 09: Your European Advantage — What You Bring

Here's the good news: being European actually helps you in specific ways.

Your Accent is an Asset #

British accents are the most versatile and in-demand. A posh or RP accent gets you cast as villains, intellectuals, and in period pieces. Regional British accents work well for character roles and comedies, while working-class British accents fit specific character types perfectly.

Other European accents have their own advantages too. French accents suggest sophistication and work well for romance and luxury brand commercials. German or Austrian accents often get cast as villains because of Hollywood history. Scandinavian accents are becoming more popular for mysterious characters. Irish accents work great for character roles and period pieces. Italian accents fit passionate characters and comedy roles.

The secret is mastering both your natural accent and perfect American delivery. This gives you twice as many opportunities.

Your Training Opens Doors #

European acting training has an excellent reputation in Hollywood. Graduates from schools like RADA and LAMDA are highly respected. Your European theatre background shows classical training that American casting directors value. Being multilingual also helps you get cast in international productions.

Stereotypes Can Help You Start #

Europeans often get cast as sophisticated villains, like Alan Rickman or Christoph Waltz. Period drama roles come naturally because of your authentic connection to European history. You'll also be considered for international characters in modern stories, romantic interests, and intellectual characters.

Don't fight these stereotypes at first. Use them to get established in the industry, then branch out into other types of roles once you have credits and relationships.

Your Passport is Valuable #

Having a European passport also helps you work on international co-productions. Netflix creates international content that needs European actors. Amazon Prime shoots global productions across different countries. Traditional studios often film in Europe and need actors who can work in both markets.

Many successful European actors maintain careers on both sides of the Atlantic. You can too.

European Directors in LA Want You #

European directors working in Hollywood often prefer European actors. You share a similar work approach and preparation style. You understand European storytelling methods. You bring authenticity to international roles. You also have the professional reliability that European training teaches.

Focus on building relationships with European directors working in LA. They can become your strongest advocates in the industry.

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Page 9 of 11: Your European Advantage
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