Event Comments

January 18, 2009 Feedback for the APS-Sponsored Accelerated Success: The Business of Acting" Seminar Event
So far this month (January, 2009) the following producers, directors, casting directors, and major stars have donated their time to speak at the APS Seminar Events:
Ernest Borgnine: Mr. Borgnine spoke for 30 minutes at the January 18 event. A true living legend, APS presented him with a birthday cake for his 92nd birthday!	Patrick Kilpatrick: Mr. Kilpatrick spoke at the January 4 seminar event.
Martin Kove: Mr. Kove spoke at the January 18 seminar event. He was an amazingly good speaker, and we hope to have him back in the future.	Stella Stevens: Ms. Stevens spoke at the January 4 seminar and will be speaking again in the near future.
Tony Tarantino: Mr. Tarantino has spoken twice this month and is set to speak again on Saturday, January 31.	Along with Bill Blair, Bill Hooey, Rock Riddle, Gary J. Levinson, Marv Silverman and others . . .
On Sunday, January 18, 2009 over a dozen producers were present. Toward the latter part of the event, a one-page questionnaire was passed out to audience members, who were asked to be blatantly and brutally honest in their evaluation. Here are the results for every evaluation form that was filled out: (The actual questionnaires are available at the APS offices)
OVERALL STATISTICS 38% reported they learned a tremendous amount from the seminar. 35% of the attendees said they learned a lot from the seminar. 27% of the attendees said they learned a fair amount from the seminar. Other choices were "learned nothing" or "learned a little." None of the attendees chose either of those options.
THE OVERALL SEMINAR EVENT GRADES 50% gave the seminar a grade of A+ 17% gave the seminar a grade of A 33% gave the seminar a grade of A-
GRADES FOR APS PRESIDENT ROCK RIDDLE 65% gave a grade of A+ 32% gave a grade of A 3% gave a grade of A-
GRADES FOR PRODUCER/DIRECTOR/ACTOR TONY TARANTINO 67% gave a grade of A+ 18% gave a grade of A 12% gave a grade of A- 3% gave a grade of B+
INDIVIDUAL COMMENTS FOLLOW:
Kirstin A. Please grade Rock Riddle: A+ Comments: Amazing! Thank you for what you do. Thank you for helping me achieve my purpose. Please grade Tony Tarantino: A+ Comments: Thank you. I would love to sit and talk to him about all he knows as an actor & producer. Wow! First, I can't believe I'm in the same room with him. I set almost in tears listening to him encouraging us. I took it all personal esp. about family. Any comments on Marty Kove? Appreciate his honesty of the business of acting Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? Awesome! Grateful to have met and have wisdom of his life as an actor! What impressed me most about the seminar was: All the producers were present. They were real and spoke truth. What impressed me least about the seminar was: N/A I wish the seminar had covered more information on: Marketing; Networking The most important things I learned from the seminar are: Believe in yourself no matter how hard it gets - Don't Give Up! Any additional comments? Speak more of the Business of acting. Tony handled it when he spoke. Thank you
D.M. A. Please grade Rock Riddle: A+ Please grade Tony Tarantino: A+ Any comments on Marty Kove? Great guy
Jason B. Please grade Rock Riddle: A Please grade Tony Tarantino: A Comments: Would really value the opportunity to work as an actor in your film Any comments on Marty Kove? So great to get to see an actor I always liked to watch work on screen. I'm probably one of the few people from my generation who LOVES WESTERNS Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? Thank you for the chance to meet you!!
Kerry C. I learned a lot from today's event. I give the event as a whole the grade of A+ Please grade Rock Riddle: A+ Comments: Enthusiastic Speaker. Very Motivational. "We can all have it all!" Please grade Tony Tarantino: A+ Comments: "Studying the sides exactly as written & then rewriting." Also not taking "extra work for gold" as . . . permission to take the chance, taking risk for a role. Very Suave, impassive, enunciated. Any comments on Marty Kove? I appreciate the story about taking risks. Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? Thank you for letting me feel like "projection" on film is okay. What impressed me most about the seminar was: The caliber of people that took the time to come today. What impressed me least about the seminar was: Very impressed. I wish the seminar had covered more information on: Very well coverage The most important things I learned from the seminar are: Projection. Okay, Take Risks. Any additional comments? Wish I could have taken a picture with Mr. Borgnine.
Lloyd C. I learned a lot from today's event. I give the event as a whole the grade of A- Please grade Rock Riddle: A Please grade Tony Tarantino: A- Any comments on Marty Kove? Very positive. Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? Inspiring. What impressed me most about the seminar was: Amount of producers. What impressed me least about the seminar was: nothing. I wish the seminar had covered more information on: cold reading The most important things I learned from the seminar are: networking
Fernando D. I learned a lot from today's event. Please grade Rock Riddle: A+ Comments: Marketing #1 Please grade Tony Tarantino: A+ Comments: Believe in yourself. Any comments on Marty Kove? Pleasure! Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? Thank you! A+ What impressed me most about the seminar was: The speakers! The most important things I learned from the seminar are: Networking Any additional comments? Thank you Matthew G. for posting on Craigslist.
Kathryn D. I learned a tremendous amount from today's event. I give the event as a whole the grade of A+ Please grade Rock Riddle: A+ Comments: Thanks for your time & insight!! Very inspirational! Please grade Tony Tarantino: A+ Comments: He's just great. Any comments on Marty Kove? Thank you for your insight Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? A true honor What impressed me most about the seminar was: Ernest Borgnine What impressed me least about the seminar was: N/A The most important things I learned from the seminar are: Bet on myself!
Keven E. I learned a fair amount from today's event. I give the event as a whole the grade of A- Please grade Rock Riddle: A+ Comments: You're a great speaker! Great energy, always kept my interest. Very sincere. Thanks for having these seminars! Please grade Tony Tarantino: A+ Comments: Very inspiring! Reminded me to always hold to my dream. "If you don't believe in yourself enough to take a chance, then it's not gonna happen." Any comments on Marty Kove? He had me glued, listening to him speak about his experiences especially with auditions. I really enjoyed listening to him. Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? Very sincere and warm speaker. What impressed me most about the seminar was: that this was very inspiring & motivating. That this is a great opportunity given to actors for networking. That people in the industry are attending. What impressed me least about the seminar was: some stuff that I already know or is common knowledge, but being reminded of it is still refreshing and helps me continue to move forward with my goal to be an actor in film/TV. I wish the seminar had covered more information on: actor's resources - casting call info/networking, recommendations. The most important things I learned from the seminar are: take chances as Marty Kove showed us. That acting is what I know that I need to be from Rock Riddle - "if you're not enjoying it then get out of it." - I know that no other career would provide the same satisfaction as acting will. Any additional comments? Thank you!
Yeena F. I learned a fair amount from today's event. Please grade Rock Riddle: A+ Comments: Thanks so much for all encouragement. Please grade Tony Tarantino: A+ Comments: Thanks. Believe in yourself - Cooler, greatest. Any comments on Marty Kove? Person. experiences were very motivating and educating. Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? Dream high & achieve your goals - Read aloud & practice. What impressed me most about the seminar was: It was all about our progress, connections & getting the job done. What impressed me least about the seminar was: None - It is very entertaining & motivating. The most important things I learned from the seminar are: stay connected, passionate & network with as many people as possible. Any additional comments? Rock suggested dream big and achieve bigger dreams.
Michael G. I learned a tremendous amount from today's event. I give the event as a whole the grade of A+ Please grade Rock Riddle: A+ Please grade Tony Tarantino: A+ Any comments on Marty Kove? A+ Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? A+
Jack G. Please grade Rock Riddle: A+ Comments: Always Please grade Tony Tarantino: A+ Comments: Very inspirational. Any comments on Marty Kove? Excellent advice Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? Very motivating, funny. Very good to learn from a legend.
Alliene H. I learned a fair amount from today's event. I give the event as a whole the grade of A- Please grade Rock Riddle: A Comments: Very intense, in a positive way. Makes me want to get up and MARKET myself. :-) Inspiring Please grade Tony Tarantino: A+ Comments: Such useful way of phrasing whet he wants to express to reach audience, well me. Useful advice too. Any comments on Marty Kove? Gave nice information and a lot of inspiring advice Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? He made me tear up What impressed me most about the seminar was: that I forgot about my stomach flu for w hours (not contagious) :-) What impressed me least about the seminar was: I can't think of anything I wish the seminar had covered more information on: getting agents The most important things I learned from the seminar are: marketing Any additional comments? All in all inspiring for anyone who wants to work in this industry
Diana H. I learned a tremendous amount from today's event. I give the event as a whole the grade of A+ Please grade Rock Riddle: A+ Comments: While I have attended enough seminars to get what you're doing, it is always a learning & interesting experience for me . . . Please grade Tony Tarantino: A+ Comments: He needs to speak up. Any comments on Marty Kove? Amazing . . . this was a real thrill because I have seen him in sooo many projects over the years and in such greatly different types of roles . . . Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? Wow . . . it felt as if he were speaking only to me. Eye contact was greaat. He should be invited to speak as often as he would like because his words give such cr3editility to what we're learning. What impressed me most about the seminar was: how many people were here and how much better the place is! What impressed me least about the seminar was: not sure yet . . . OK, no bathroom break. I wish the seminar had covered more information on: MONEY Only because it matters. how to assess one's value. The most important things I learned from the seminar are: To remember to believe in myself!
Jennifer H. Please grade Rock Riddle: A+ Comments: Please grade Tony Tarantino: A Comments: Any comments on Marty Kove? Excellent Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? Very Inspiring.
Thomas H. I give the event as a whole the grade of A- Please grade Rock Riddle: A- Please grade Tony Tarantino: A- Any comments on Marty Kove? Good instruction tips (e.g., line of in-difference) Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? Very inspirational and insightful
Avery J. I learned a lot from today's event. Please grade Rock Riddle: A+ Comments: Any comments on Marty Kove? Realistic, Helpful, Insight Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? Inspiring, realistic, practical advice
James K. Please grade Rock Riddle: A+ Please grade Tony Tarantino: A+ Comments: I always learn a lot from Tony Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? Great actor
Cary K. I learned a fair amount from today's event. I give the event as a whole the grade of A- Please grade Rock Riddle: A+ Please grade Tony Tarantino: B+ Any comments on Marty Kove? Great! Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? Absolutely captivating and honest about the realities of the industry What impressed me most about the seminar was: The straightforward honest approach What impressed me least about the seminar was: N/A I wish the seminar had covered more information on: N/A The most important things I learned from the seminar are: If you don't believe in yourself, nobody else will. Any additional comments? N/A
Joycelyne L. I learned a fair amount from today's event. Please grade Rock Riddle: A Comments: very fun, inspirational, humorous Please grade Tony Tarantino: A- Comments: somewhat inspirational Any comments on Marty Kove? Networking follow thru was good. Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? had great stories What impressed me most about the seminar was: focusing on career ideas The most important things I learned from the seminar are: networking
Julie M. I learned a fair amount from today's event. I give the event as a whole the grade of A- Please grade Rock Riddle: A+ Comments: He's funny, encouraging Please grade Tony Tarantino: A+ Comments: Good Advice, very nice Any comments on Marty Kove? He's funny, great stories, god energy Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? Funny, good stories, inspiring What impressed me most about the seminar was: the actor's stories What impressed me least about the seminar was: Need more info on networking properly (I know there wasn't enough time) I wish the seminar had covered more information on: How do we network nowadays? It's tough with everything being done on internet - you can no longer just walk onto studio lots to go to HR The most important things I learned from the seminar are: Don't give up, stay inspired, network Any additional comments? I am mostly interested in casting/production
Dallas M. I learned a lot from today's event. Please grade Rock Riddle: A Please grade Tony Tarantino: A+ Any comments on Marty Kove? Bring him back! Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? YAY - love him!
Myra M. Please grade Rock Riddle: A Comments: Good mediator, as well as keeps the energy consistent within the seminar. Please grade Tony Tarantino: A+ Comments: Very informative when it comes to building personal success when concentrating on the acting form. Any comments on Marty Kove? A+ Very informative. I enjoyed the opening for A&A during his session. Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? A++ Very informative! Very entertaining and had a lot of wisdom to share about his experiences in the business. What impressed me most about the seminar was: The wealth of knowledge about being an actor. I wish the seminar had covered more information on: the business of acting, SAG & AFTRA information. The most important things I learned from the seminar are: Don't be afraid to take risks.
Charles M. I learned a tremendous amount from today's event. I give the event as a whole the grade of A+ Please grade Rock Riddle: A+ Comments: He's awesome, I like his voice! Like the idea of saying "thank you" - So simple, but means a lot! Please grade Tony Tarantino: A+ Comments: Someone successful giving advice about the business. Its nice to know that I am following his philosophies on believing in yourself. Any comments on Marty Kove? I liked the story about the gun. - tells me if you have an idea, just GO FOR IT!! Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? Living legend. Was very honored to hear him speak. I love that after all these years, you can still see the twinkle in his eye for this --- he loves it! What impressed me most about the seminar was: That it was FREE. I was waiting for "the catch." This is such a blessing! What impressed me least about the seminar was: Nothing I wish the seminar had covered more information on: I had no expectations. Any information was greatly appreciated. The most important things I learned from the seminar are: You got to believe in yourself & take chances, even if it seems outrageous Any additional comments? I liked hearing the actors stories
Mario P. Please grade Rock Riddle: A+ Please grade Tony Tarantino: A Any comments on Marty Kove? A Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? A+ What impressed me most about the seminar was: Ernest Borgnine The most important things I learned from the seminar are: The nuts and bolts of the industry
William R. I learned a tremendous amount (always) from today's event. Please grade Rock Riddle: A+ Comments: Keep up the great work. Diction, volume, eye contact, working with the audience, good related stories. I'm very proud of what he does. Please grade Tony Tarantino: A+ Comments: My mentor & friend. I have grown to admire this man so much. I feel compelled to do whatever I can for him. A man with heart Any comments on Marty Kove? Very impressive man. I feel I need to go see every movie this man has done in the movies. Holds the audience very very well. Love to hear him more often. Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? What can I say. I love this man & I've seen most of his wonderful movies. What a treat. I would love to be in one of his movies. Wow. What impressed me most about the seminar was: Legends in action. WOW. Wonderful What impressed me least about the seminar was: More people should have been here . . . I wish the seminar had covered more information on: . . . Fully face your mission. Keep up this wonderful work. The most important things I learned from the seminar are: Never give up -- Learn from the legends. Practice & be the best you can - Always Any additional comments? R2=D2?
Elena R. I learned a tremendous amount from today's event. I give the event as a whole the grade of A+ Please grade Rock Riddle: A+ Comments: Thanks for the great lineup! Please grade Tony Tarantino: A+ Any comments on Marty Kove? Great sharing & suggestions. Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? Terrific! Enjoyed his "basics" and story What impressed me most about the seminar was: Ernest Borgnine's generosity & friendliness. The most important things I learned from the seminar are: Reminders & take risks & have confidence. Any additional comments? Thank you Very Much!
Monica S. I learned a lot from today's event. I give the event as a whole the grade of A+ Please grade Rock Riddle: A Please grade Tony Tarantino: A+ Any comments on Marty Kove? excellent Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? excellent
Emma S. I learned a lot from today's event. Please grade Rock Riddle: A Comments: Unique Please grade Tony Tarantino: A Comments: . . . Any comments on Marty Kove? Solid + helpful Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? Wonderful! Inspiring. What impressed me most about the seminar was: quality of the talent What impressed me least about the seminar was: . . . I wish the seminar had covered more information on: additional strategy The most important things I learned from the seminar are: know your stuff . . . + have "thread of indifference." Any additional comments? Keep up the good work.
Julian T. I learned a lot, a tremendous amount from today's event. I give the event as a whole the grade of A Please grade Rock Riddle: Comments: Very professional and motivational. He presented the information very thoroughly. Very . . . educational. Please grade Tony Tarantino: A+ Comments: He is very straightforward and practical. Dream and pursue your dream. Real life experiences. Have motivation and conviction. Believe in yourself and abilities. Any comments on Marty Kove? Be indifferent about acting and take CHANCES!. educational. Don't be afraid to be proactive. Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? Amazing honest and genuine speech and presentation. Gave a real life perspective on why acting is and how to present your character. Be confident and annunciate. What impressed me most about the seminar was: The professional atmosphere and advice. The guest speaker I wish the seminar had covered more information on: N/A The most important things I learned from the seminar are: Be proactive . . . NETWORKING! Any additional comments? N/A
DeLane V. I learned a fair amount from today's event. Please grade Rock Riddle: A Comments: Great. Always a mass of positive energy Please grade Tony Tarantino: A Comments: Very sincere and dedicated to the profession of film making and it shows. Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? Genius actor and person who spoke from the heart. What impressed me most about the seminar was: Professionalism. The most important things I learned from the seminar are: Things that have been reinforced like commitment, imagination, and risk taking. Any additional comments?
Tracey V. I learned a tremendous amount from today's event. I give the event as a whole the grade of A+ Please grade Rock Riddle: A+ Comments: You are always so positive and energetic! I always walk away from these seminars more inspired and motivated to succeed. Please grade Tony Tarantino: A+ Comments: He's wonderful and always gives such great practical advice for acting and living! Any comments on Marty Kove? I really enjoyed him and I learned some great tips from his past experiences and tips. Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? What a great honor and pleasure it was to meet Mr. Borgnine. His words of wisdom along with his sparkling personality were priceless! What impressed me most about the seminar was: The positive environment and being able - having the opportunity to learn from these generous and kind professionals. What impressed me least about the seminar was: N/A I wish the seminar had covered more information on: N/A The most important things I learned from the seminar are: Time, Don't be afraid to make mistakes -- learn from them and move on and find what will work, have a little thread of indifference, faith and confidence in myself. Any additional comments? Thank you! :-)
George W. I learned a tremendous amount from today's event. I give the event as a whole the grade of A Please grade Tony Tarantino: A-
Robb W. I learned a tremendous amount from today's event. I give the event as a whole the grade of A+ Please grade Rock Riddle: A+ Comments: I know nothing about the business and feel I learned a lot. Please grade Tony Tarantino: A+ Comments: Good advice on how to make an initial introduction.
(no name) I learned a lot from today's event. I give the event as a whole the grade of A Please grade Rock Riddle: A Comments: Rock always has good business practices to relate Please grade Tony Tarantino: A Comments: Same thing w/Tony. Good advice Any comments on Marty Kove? pleasure meeting Marty. Great advice Any Comments on Ernest Borgnine? What can I say? EB is a legend.