The P.A.C.T. Video

This is the video I filmed in under one day using just one actor and a camera that had no tri-pod. It is a story based on an actual group of health care workers that focus on the mentally ill. I originally shot this for a contest but after a heck of a lot of waiting and wasting of energy I decided to post it here. This story follows a character named Francis "KUJI" Franklin who after hearing terrible news about one of his clients/patients goes for a long contemplative walk in the park (FYI - KUJI is short for Kujichagulia which is a day during Kwanzaa). Kuji is one of the few diverse characters in this story of how people from all facets of life can unite and work together to benefit society's often ignored and disenfranchised elements. The P.A.C.T.(People for Active Community Treatment) which I gave an alternate name of The P.A.R.C.(People for Active Reinstatement in the Community), are the rescuers of those that are about to give up hope and the givers of new beginnings.

BLACK NJ HOLIDAY MIXER

So I went to this mixer feeling sort disgruntled because several of the last mixers I went to were very disappointing. However, it is the holiday season and my sister had already bought the tickets.
At first it was rather quiet but after a while the dj went old school and everybody (except me) hit the floor and danced the night away. The youngest girl there that night was a grad student and she was one of the highlights of the night. She knew every song word for word and sang while dancing (she is the girl in the white sweater). My sister who was wear a purple glitter top kept her company on the dance floor and paid for it the next morning with sore toes and cramps in her feet (LOL).
Anyway, the mixer was a surprising success in my opinion even if I didn't network as much as I normally do.
Have a great holiday season. PEACE.
N8

p.s. leave some comments if you like the pics ;)

I AM THE LANTERN

A relative of mine saw my Myspace and Blogger pages and noticed that I was the GREEN LANTERN in the super hero survey. She made note that I am African-American and should have the corresponding hero image so she sent me this image and it is so cool.
FYI Tomorrow the Myspace competition for Storyteller Challenge will begin. If you would like to cast a vote of 5 or higher ( I'm praying for 10s) so that we get a thumbs up rating and make it into the top 12 for the next round of competition please click my other blog link on the side or go to www.myspace.com/nathanzensapien

Once there click on the videos to view the short. All voting has to be done through your Myspace account so if you have one please vote and tell your friends to vote too.

Peace

Nate

The Great Unknown

This last Saturday I received very tragic information from three different sources. Two friends announced that they were going to die and a relative actually did die that morning. My uncle's future wife died in the bath early Saturday after a night of feeling chest and stomach pains. As the family grieved, I went to visit a very spiritual friend/associate of mine and he told me that he was dying from a terminal disease. I was in shock for a while until we talk and I saw how brave he was in the face of death. In grim confidence I went to my Mom's house only to hear that a long time family friend had announced that she wasn't going to live longer than a week. True to her words she passed Tuesday morning just one day after she threw a farewell dinner party.

This may seem very depressing but actually it isn't because I know that the other side has gained some very good and strong souls. They will be dearly missed here on Earth but only God knows what greater good they will be a part of in The Great Unknown.

Enjoy everyday of your life to the fullest!

Nate

Birthday wishes and Beowulf trailer #2

Happy Birthday, Panda!!! I know that your B-day is on the 23rd but I just wanted to make sure that I didn't forget. Let's face it, Panda, if you got free tix to a movie and could find a babysitter I know you would go to the movies more often.

I also wanted to post the second trailer for Beowulf up because it RoCkS!!!!! His rant at the end of the trailer sounds just like the stuff a lot of guys say to themselves right before the sh@t hits the fan! Pride is the Curse.

BEOWULF TrAiLeR #2

ALMOST ANNIVERSARY TIME!!!

For my loyal readers this is a given but for some of you new guys maybe you should look deeper into my blog. This may also explain why I have been wearing the same ring for about a year.

"Tibi [ipso] crede." because I am sure therein lies the higher power

Peace

Nathan

IRON, FIRE, AND ONE BADASS GANGSTER

The movie season is picking up and I ( as a loyal yet jaded viewer) am actually looking forward to several of the genres best this upcoming year (Be sure to click on the movie names below to see the trailers).

First, let's talk SCI-FI and Marvel. I generally think of comics as fantasy but with the release of IRON MAN I know that sci-fi is going to get a healthy shot in the arm! Robert Downey jr is playing a rather camp version of billionaire & inventor Tony Stark whose life is turned upside down when he is abducted by terrorists. For more info watch the trailer.

Next, let's talk FANTASY and an old legend come to life! BEOWULF!!!! This story seems to be true to the epic poem except for the part involving the alluring Angelina Jolie. Trust me I am not complaining, in fact, I might be drooling (even though I know she used a body double and in the real story Grendel's mom is a hag (lol)). That point aside this has that great classic story feel with all the modern accoutrement that we special effects junkies love.

Finally, let's get real with Denzel Washington in AMERICAN GANGSTER. He is playing Frank Lucas who was both the most powerful heroin kingpin in America and (later) government informant. I love the work that Denzel is doing with Scott Free Productions. They seem to be taking on a wide variety of subject matter. I also love the story of how these two powerhouses met. If I recall correctly it was at the dentist office so always be aware of your surroundings because you never know who you will meet and/or what might transpire.

A pic of me and Ari Myrtai

At the networking Ari caught me with my defenses down and convinced me to take a pic with him. It was cool. He also told me that he was heading to Cali soon so I just want to wish him lots of GOOD LUCK!!!! I am sure that he will find success and hopefully fortune out there seeing that he is very positive and outgoing dude.

Never give up, Ari!!! And don't hesitate to come back to NYC when you are ready.

Peace,

Nate

Bill Kalatsky's Dinner Event August 20th 2007

For a list of some of the guests (key holders) that attended the Networking Event go to www.actorsny.com

As for me I snapped a few pics of some of the new faces and passed out my headshot to those that accepted it, however, fellow actors only received cards. The event overall was a success and many friends showed up. Amazingly I didn't take their pics as much as strangers and new associates (sorry peeps). Some people like Ari Myrtaj, Sarah K. and the already successful Lauretta Vaughn will probably find even more success after this event.

Peace,

Nate

Doing Auditions

Now that I am not writing for a while I have decided to do some acting again. I recently auditioned for a role where my character dies at the feet of Robert Deniro and Al Pacino. 50 Cent is rumored to play a gangsta buddy of my doomed character. I prayin' that I get the part!!!! People please give me some good energy for this role!!

As for the other auditions... all seems well. I have one for today that is a commercial for a jewelry store. My fingers are crossed because I have bills to pay and that ain't no joke.

The tickets for Bill's networking is now $75.00 and I do believe that there are less than five left so stop procrastinating and get yours today. :)

Take it easy and give me those GOOD thoughts and prayers because I need it.

Peace.

Nate

The Dinner And A Friend

Well the Dinner/Networking is down to just 7 tickets left so if you are interested in going now is the time. The tickets are also more expensive now ( $68 ).

Also, my friend Lauretta Vaughn will be appearing on As The World Turns for about two weeks starting August 6-15. She is playing a bar owner on the outskirts of town. Yesterday she was just dynamic in her performance. I was very proud to be considered one of her friends.

So give Lauretta some good vibes and remember that life is like a boomerang... what you throw out there eventually will come back to you.

Peace,

Nate

Bill's Next Dinner Event!!!

Bill Kalatsky has just posted his next big Dinner Networking Event. If you are interested in going check out Actorsny.com for details. I already have my RSVP. Don't wait too late or the price will go up! It is currently $57 to attend.

Good Luck, people! I hope to see you there ;)

Nate

My Friend's Favorite Poem

This is a poem that my friend Alberto likes very much. It is a great reminder to enjoy this journey we call life.

Ithaca
When you set out on your journey to Ithaca,
pray that the road is long,
full of adventure, full of knowledge.
The Lestrygonians and the Cyclops,
the angry Poseidon -- do not fear them:
You will never find such as these on your path,
if your thoughts remain lofty, if a fine
emotion touches your spirit and your body.
The Lestrygonians and the Cyclops,
the fierce Poseidon you will never encounter,
if you do not carry them within your soul,
if your soul does not set them up before you.

Pray that the road is long.
That the summer mornings are many, when,
with such pleasure, with such joy
you will enter ports seen for the first time;
stop at Phoenician markets,
and purchase fine merchandise,
mother-of-pearl and coral, amber and ebony,
and sensual perfumes of all kinds,
as many sensual perfumes as you can;
visit many Egyptian cities,
to learn and learn from scholars.

Always keep Ithaca in your mind.
To arrive there is your ultimate goal.
But do not hurry the voyage at all.
It is better to let it last for many years;
and to anchor at the island when you are old,
rich with all you have gained on the way,
not expecting that Ithaca will offer you riches.

Ithaca has given you the beautiful voyage.
Without her you would have never set out on the road.
She has nothing more to give you.

And if you find her poor, Ithaca has not deceived you.
Wise as you have become, with so much experience,
you must already have understood what Ithacas mean.

Constantine P. Cavafy (1911)

It has been a few months...

Well, fellow blog readers I am finally back online in a good way. Promoting the second book has been challenging but rewarding ( at least due to experience. LOL ). What I mean to say is that sometimes things pop right into place and other times ya just have to work for it. Might I say there is no shame to working towards or for a project that you love. I only wish to work smarter and not harder this time around.
So lets talk acting...
First, as all true actors know networking is a must. I keep meeting people who got in years before me because they knew someone I didn't. I'm not griping! All i wish was that I had gained this information sooner than at this point but I digress everything happens at the moment it is suppose to and not a second earlier.
FYI There is a great book by Bill Kalatsky ( a casting agent/producer) that tells all on how to network your way in. If you are interested in the book just google his name or go to Actorsny.com to get the scoop on classes, his book, and upcoming events.
Next lets talk energy!!!
There are some people who clearly are enegry vampires. Everytime you meet them it is like the very life is being sucked out of you. So I suggest that you free yourself of such people. The only way they feel good is by dragging others down and that SUCKS!!! Surrounding yourself with good people and good energy maybe as simple as finding a new route to work or better yet avoiding the vampires and getting in with a new crowd. In any situation change is necessary to promote growth. Who knows? Maybe the most loving thing you can do is just (gently) giving old crap (people/places/etc.) the boot.
I think the point of this rant is that we should all look forward to change and if possible embrace it. This doesn't mean that you have to get rid of everything so much as only those things that would dare hold you down.

KEEP PEACE ON YOUR MIND AND LOVE IN YOUR HEART!

N8

BOY is now available online

www.OutskirtsPress.com/BOY

PICK UP A COPY TODAY!!! :D

N8

A Bit Too Quiet

It has been a while since I wrote/updated my blog. Well, what can I say? It has been a whirlwind of events this pass month or so and then everything seemed to halt. Of course, I know that this is usually a sign that something big is happening but this time I feel personally alittle anxious.

I was fortunate enough last month to secure a freelance agreement with IFM which means that more acting opportunities will surface over time. I know from experience that my look is mostly hot during the Fall when everyone's mind drifts toward football and sports. That is why I am curious as to what IFM will offer me during the Spring and Summer season? It is a professional curiousity, therefore, I don't feel that I am jinxing it by being so open about possible results.

Also, the book is in the printing phase which means that it will be published within a week or so. Truthfully, I really shouldn't be bitchin' but waiting can take so much out of you if your mind state isn't prepared. Right now, I am just being impatient ^_^

Oh well, I want everyone to take it easy and this week learn from mine and other people's efforts. Whether it means just being a little more patient and allowing more time for yourself or reviewing what you personally have accomplished. Take time out this week to learn and hopefully grow.

Peace
N8

This Is My New Book!!! XD

This is how the book cover will look like and frankly I am thrilled!!!! Everything seems to be moving at a great pace and if I am lucky this project may get done ahead of my own pessimistic timeline. LOL.

My publisher and editor this time were very effecient so I am so far impressed by the level of activity.

Hopefully, things will progress in this manner and I will have a copy of the book in my hands soon!!! HURRAY XD

Remember that being hopeful can only help when waiting for the results of your actions.

Nate

What A Great Dinner!!!

On Feb. 5th I attended a dinner event that hosted about 15 industry agents, managers, and producers. It was GREAT! I made many contacts and met a wide variety of actors. It was funny because I was one of the only actors there who had delved into the realm of writing. Sure there were others but I was the only one with his own book ;)

I learned a lot that night about approach and method of gaining attention. When I was too direct it seemed to turn off some of the producers but fortunately not all were as 'gun shy' as those few. Also, there is something admirable about being straight forward. Everyone there that night knew what the event was about and it was just a matter of schooze as to whom got to know the industry peeps the best. Plus, they were looking for specific types anyway.

Overall, I got to pass out a ton of my cards and I know for sure that there were several solid connections made that night. Unfortunately, I didn't take any pictures ( I didn't want to seem like a tourist amongst shark infested waters). If you are interested in attending the next dinner event it will be held at the end of Summer. Check out my other blog to see when and of course return to this blog for updates on my book BOY that is already at in the formatting stage at the publisher.

Remember to keep peace on your mind and love in your heart!!!

Nate

And The Title Is...

BOY

It should be available at the end of April.

The Book Is Done

For most of you who have been keeping up with me on Myspace already know that the book was completed last week around Thursday. I am still keeping the name of the book under wraps until it gets cleared by the publisher so that means that I won't reveal the name until February. This new book should be major boost in how books are viewed. Its a novelette but where it lacks pages it more than makes up for in content. Look for it online and on shelves in the US at the end of April or maybe early May.
Thanks for all your support and remember to stay positive in all that you do!

N8

And The Pace Quickens

I am glad to say that I have officially made it to Chapter 12 in my latest book. I am so tempted to spill the beans and reveal the title of the book and what it is all about but I know that would be counterproductive. Anticipation is almost as thrilling as receiving the object of the anticipation. I can''t stop thinking about these last few chapters. I have even started to write ahead so that as I reach the end of one section/chapter the middle or end of the other section/chapter is nearly complete.
Have you guessed the name of the book yet? If you have been reading my blogs then it should be apparent after this next clue. Are you ready... the title is gender specific in nature.
Okay, that is all that I can reveal right now.
Look for the book to hit US shelves in late April.

Peace and love to all my readers. Stay positive.
N8

The Second Season Of Networking

It has started again and this time I feel better prepared for what is around the corner. February will host a dinner event in NY that will bring together agents, managers, and producers with hopeful actors. If you are interested in attending this event just email me. My associate Edmar Flores is actually speaking that night so it should be interesting to see him cleaned up and talking to the crowd.
Be warned the price of this dinner is on the rise and I not sure if there is a limit to how many people can attend. As one of the attendees I actually would feel better with fewer people especially taking into account that currently there is a 7 to 1 ratio in favor of the actors already slated to show up. However, this business is all about competition and if you can't take the heat get out the freakin' kitchen! LOL!!! So the more the merrier and I will see you at the dinner.

N8

Only A Few More Chapters To Go

So close yet so far away is how I feel right now when I think about the completion of next book. This little novelette will be a quick but fun read for everyone. Its simplicity should attract a more generalized readership yet the strength of the story should get the attention of the more descriminating reader.

This year looks promising for most of my career matters. I plan on publishing two books this year. The first should be at the publisher by February and the other should be completed by November. I am working with a producer to make my tv script more exceptable to the studios. There is no real schedule for the completion of that project but I am rooting for sooner than later.

For everyone who have been following the progress of my projects I just want to thank you for your support and positive energy. It is a NEW YEAR and therefore time for NEW BEGINNINGS!!!! I want to wish all my readers the best in 2007. I HOPE ALL YOUR DREAMS COME TRUE!

PEACE AND LOVE,

N8