It Was About the Acting

Although I wore several hats on "Ranchero," it was always about the acting. When I write, character motivations are primary. I want the "why" for every actor to be bullet proof. And as much respect as I have for the writer (when it's not me) no one knows a character more deeply and thoroughly than the actor.

A great performance requires the actor to walk, speak and think as another person. He or she must embody the nuances of another human being and bring to life that which exits only on paper. The job done properly will bring the audience to feel the raw emotions that the character/actor experiences. It is this bond between actor and audience that makes my heart beat.

I am impressed and moved by all the actors in "Ranchero." From the frighteningly intense work of Danny Trejo to the moving performances of Christina Woods and Roger Gutierrez, the realism, at times, was breathtaking. One reviewer said of the acting that it felt "like I was watching a documentary." It doesn't get any better than that.

But as much credit as I give to the actor, an equal share belongs to the director. All players, no matter how gifted, need a great coach to draw the best out of them. Sorry for the stupid analogies, but Rich guided the team well.

It was a pleasure to work with such talented, giving performers. Their generosity as artists is what made my multi-tasking possible.

Brian