Hi Everyone,

It’s that time of year again when the new movies are rolled out to the theaters around the world for consideration in the upcoming award season.

As a proud member of the Screen Actors Guild (officially SAG-Aftra), I am privileged to see most of these films at private screenings or via advanced copies and I can already tell that this is going to be one great season for cinematic gold.

At the top of the list are two films that I believe will change the way this country views many issues pertaining to people of color.  One is the long awaited film Loving, which is the true story of Richard and Mildred Loving, an interracial couple whose lives help change one of the most asinine laws in this country.  Be sure to take special note of the two actors who bring this compelling story to life:  Ruth Negga and Joel Edgerton.  Now that’s what great acting looks like folks.

Also at the top of the list is the movie Fences, based on the Tony Award winning Broadway play from 1987 and revived in 2010 with Denzel Washington and Viola Davis taking home the Tony for their performances.  Now we finally have the film version with Denzel taking the helm as director, as well as reprising his acting role along with Viola Davis.

I was very disappointed when the Academy chose to give the Oscar to Meryl Streep in 2012 instead of to Viola for her amazing performance in “The Help.”  I’ve been told that she will not be overlooked this year.

So get ready folks because this film season will not disappoint.  And for all you young people who think you want to be an actor, sit quietly and truly observe the performances in these films.  Study these actors – their movements, their gestures, their overall choices – and witness what a truly great performance looks like.  They’ll be no shortage of material to learn from this year.

Enjoy everyone!

Bridget