E03: Matthew Higgs & Majella Davis - An Actor’s Handbook: The Talent Behind Award-Winning Short Film Once Ethereal

Today we are joined by the talent of short film, Once Ethereal- Director, Writer, Editor and lead actor Matthew Higgs, and co-star and former Neighbours actor, Majella Davis. Throughout this episode, we touch on Once Ethereal, how it came to be- all the way up until its festival run. But we also talk about non-linear pathways into acting and directing, we focus a lot on acting training, studios, and courses, and their benefits. We delve into Majella’s time on Neighbours, and how she got the big role, and we discuss Matt’s previous films and acting experience, including some projects that we’ve collaborated on together over the years.Non-linear pathways into acting and directing- rejections & no film school  How working with non-actors can help your directing Acting training: What to take and what to leave Brave studios & other acting courses in Melbourne Networks made through short coursesControl vs collaboration as a directorHow Majella got her start on Neighbours- filming 427 episodes The making of Once EtherealHow to make your own work as an actorDirecting actors as an actor- benefits and challengesThe benefits of meticulous pre-productionRehearsals for short films Anecdotes from Once Ethereal Filming in Australian weather conditionsMatt’s Festival strategy for Once EtherealMajella on Neighbours vs Short Films and her processesJobs in between the dream roles Matt’s new short film ‘Model’Advice for actors Self tape advice for actors - the real truth to self-tapingLink to watch Once Ethereal on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v9ojc3e9ueYMatt's Instagram: @_matthiggsMajella's Instagram: @majella.davisMentioned:Link to watch For The Dear Leader on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H9UMioorNsc Cinematographer & Fullisick Co-Founder Darcy Michell