We filmed episode #1 of a 4-part mini-series called, HICKS that is told entirely in reverse order, unfolding over the course of one chaotic 24-hour period in the lives of brothers Joe Don (Actor- Scott Douglas Wilson) and Billy Jack (Actor- Chad J. Willett).
I went “ALL IN” on the filming & the set protocols which included the following rules for the actors and crew:
· Staying in Character: While on set, we could only talk to each other as our characters- no breaking character.
· No Gossip/ Small Talk: No gossip, small talk, or getting out of character during the 3 hours of filming.
· Music: Music was played before filming to get us into character.
· Closed Set: We only allowed actors & crew on set.
· Lines: Actors had to show up with lines completely memorized.
I realized that when I don’t go to the extreme & “All In,” that I produce average results, and it sucks.
For some not going “All In” may work, but for me it doesn’t. The only way I can do great work, create, innovate, and make a difference speaking and at our acting studio is by going “All In.”
I wish it could be different, but it can’t, and it is a hard lesson to learn later in life, but still valuable. @youtube.com/@Hicksseries
The Leadership From the Stage Lesson:
Excellence isn’t an accident. It’s a decision. Raise the standard. Demand preparation. Create accountability. Because average commitment produces average outcomes, while full commitment creates extraordinary results.