Meditations of Marcus Aurelius, by Marcus Aurelius

On Friendship, Cicero

Lucretius-Abridged, Lucretius (Abridged)

The Gallic Wars, Ceasar

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When I watched the movie several years ago with my friend Peter and his daughters, the little ones loved it but the father scoffed at the “fantastical and poorly structured story.” That offended me at first, but as I thought more about it, I realised that certain elements of the film, especially near the end, were not entirely satisfactory from a dramaturgical standpoint. That started me on some research, where I learned that Akira Kurasawa (the unlikely Japenese director of this Russian masterpiece) based his film on the diaries of an actual surveyor, Vladimir Klavdievich Arseniev.

(It is worthwhile to take a moment to mention that Dersu Uzala plays a pivotal role in the life and work of the director Kurusawa. It is his first film after attempting suicide and the only film made outside of Japan. It marks a turning point in his style – the dream sequences of the tiger (which I personally find to be a rare weakness in the film) presages his later works such as Dreams. It’s also interesting to note that Kurusawa demanded to shoot the film — which took two years to complete — in remote sections of Siberia, rather than on a set outside Moscow, as the Russian producers of Mosfilm had suggested.)

This discovery opened a whole new vista for me, and I hunted down the original texts. First, I found a little book in English called Dersu the Trapper, which is a selection of the Dersu sections from the larger diary of Arsiniev. Then, in Moscow, I managed to find a few volumes of the diaries themselves in Russian. There much more is revealed: after reading the work, I had a stronger sense of the physical hardships the team endured (especially the horse-flies, flash floods, and bandit threats, all of which the movie glosses over), further adventures and misadventures that don’t make it to the film (like Arsiniev’s accidental shooting of Dersu during a hunting foray), and most importantly, a realization of why the film is structured as it is: Kurusawa did not start from a clean slate, he translated a true story to the screen.

Why is the movie so touching? Many point out Kurasawa’s depiction of nature. Filmed in the actual areas where the story takes place, there are long, loving scenes where the camera simply luxuriates over the wilderness, making this endless land seem mysterious, tantalizing, and dangerous at the same time. The colors of autumn, the rainshowers of spring, the crisp whites of winter are captured so vividly that the viewer is transported. And there are glimpses – nothing more – of wild boar, deer, and a tiger that add a realism to the picture.

On this canvas, Kurusawa explores the clash between a Rousseauian life of nature and that in the city. There are no easy answers to be found here — a “natural man” has as much difficulty surviving in the town as the townsmen in the taiga. Neither are romanticized, and both contain long stretches of dullness interspersed with quickly descending and often meaningless horrors.

There are other miracles in this film — Dersu’s syntax (supposedly George Lucas’ inspiration for Yoda), which is both childish and transcendent; Dersu’s worldview, which is simplistic but wholly believable; and the slow deterioration of Dersu’s physical powers, which reflects and reminds us all of our own fates. But more than all this, what remains most powerful to me is the depiction of the friendship between this most unlikely pair. From the first, theirs is a friendship based on mutual trust and respect. The first farewell at the railroad tracks to Khabarovsk is initially anti-climactic: the two simply shake hands and head their separate ways. It’s like an unresolved chord hanging in the air. But how the soul soars when, after almost 100 seconds pass, Arsiniev stops and turns back, at the same time Dersu pauses in his trek up a snow covered hill. The waves and shouts of “Capitan!” and “Dersu!” across the distance is a yawp of love, nothing less. Rarely have so many emotions been curled up into so few syllables.

Also moving is their reunion several years later (which feels like years in the waiting, but amazingly occurs just a few minutes after the above-mentioned parting). Kurusawa plants a huge fallen tree between the two, and so Pyramus and Thisbe-like, they are forced to strain around this barrier to simply embrace. In the final moments of the film, the tragic end to this lifelong love affair is almost too painful to watch — it’s also probably why Kurosawa begins the film at the end, any other approach would be too cruel.

Tonight, after the film we drank a toast to Dersu Uzala, and to the hope that each of us would find a friend as resourceful, selfless, and ingenius on our own difficult journeys through life. Amazingly, more than 100 years after the death of this illiterate hunter, Dersu Uzala still inspires. This is something Dersu would have likely found as baffling as the fact that his fellow travelers don’t understand that the river, the moon, and the sun are all “people,” or that it is essential to leave tidbits of meat when leaving camp to feed the foraging mice.

A few interesting links:

A strange little website dedicated to Dersu Uzala.

The Kurosawa movie at Amazon.

Dersu the Trapper, a great English book, from Amazon.

A reference to an earlier Soviet film by the same name — I’d love any information on how to get ahold of this!

And finally, one last rare photo of the real Dersu:

Chad I truly appreciate you! The envelopes are great (as you know); but the advice you provide is such a positive service to our community, since everyone can’t afford “class prices” as we struggle to make ends meet while pursuing the dream planted in our hearts to perform. I hope and pray that every aspiring actor can find some honest and reliable “outlet for personal expansion and growth” like yours. Sincerely,
- DeBorah Sharpe-Taylor

I just received my first issue of your brilliant ezine. I love the easy to read layout and the insights you revealed about getting professional headshots were spot on. I look forward to next week’s issue.
- Ian McGregor, Performing Arts News

I have really enjoyed your newsletter and site which provides helpful hints to actors and/or the aspiring. Your tips have relieved some of my worries and helps me put into perspective the myths and truths about this ever-changing business.
- Kelley M. Ross, Michigan

A friend sent me your newsletter, and I can’t tell you how valuable I’ve found it. Thank you for making your resources accessible and for extending support to those who are entertaining life working in NYC.
- Shana Harvey, Chicago

I’d like to thank you guys down there for being so unselfish and sharing all this information with the acting community in North America.
- Rene A. Payes, Ottawa (Canada)

Dear Chad, I thank you kindly for all of the wonderful information, tips, advice, etc. you send my way, though I never seem to take the time to let you know how much I appreciate it! Thanks so much again, Chad, for all the good words you send my way.
- Barbara

Thank You, Thank You, Thank You! for that informative article about resume formatting. I am a working actor in New York and Atlanta and fully appreciate the information which I have already applied to my resume. It has greatly enhanced the appearance of my resume.
- From a very grateful actor, Portia Cue

I have been subscribed to your on-line newletters for almost a year now…and I love them!! [Your recent article] has inspired me and given me a renewed sense of ability when it comes to facing auditions. I can’t wait for the next one now so I can really knock’em dead! This is a long-winded way of saying ‘Thank you’ for publishing the words that you do. You have touched my life and given me some new energy to pursue my dreams.
- Laurann Brown

I accidently stumbled on your website but it was a blessing in disquise. I read every e-mail you send me and can’t wait to read the next.
- Luke Martin, Houston Texas

Just wanted to say Thanks. Good stuff in that newsletter! I shall certainly find a great deal of use for it, I know that much already.
- Maura O’Leary, Winnipeg (Canada)

First off, I love being on this email list. I am a graduate student at Northwestern University studying opera, but I can’t tell you enough how much your acting tips help out for singing also!
-Brenda Bushera, Illinois

I have to say that all the work you’re doing is fantastic. God Bless and keep up the good work!
- Hazel, Philippines

Love your newsletter’s tips; they never go out of style.
- John Corcelli, Toronto

I absolutely love the newsletters I recieve, and although I am only 17, I have been able to use many of the tips you have provided. Thank you so much, and please thank your panel of theater professionals!
-Patrick Chard

Thanks for the great deal and for the consistently great website. It’s nice to see people care about the theatre as a community as opposed to a competition.
- Brian Adoff

Thank you so much. I really value your e-zine, though I am not the actress. My 12 year old daughter is the one for whom I receive it. I find it very pragmatic and honest, and though some of your advice are things I have advised her of (common sense stuff), coming from an experienced source (and not her Mom), they mean something to her. So keep up the good work, thanks again for your help, and we’ll stay tuned. (And take the compliment, because I don’t sing praises lightly.)
- Terry Ferguson, Maryland

Hello Mr. Gracia, Your website, e-tips/newletters and e-store have been such an amazing blessing to me as I begin my journey into the acting world. I look forward to & learn so much from every Actor Tips email I receive. Thank you!
- Wei Y Lee

Hi, I’m an acting student, currently in my third year at drama school, in Sydney, Australia. I regularly receive your ActorTips and emails and just wanted to say what a joy they are to read. They often help me a great deal and keep me focused. Thanks for keeping us on top of things. Can’t wait for the next one!!!!
- Soseh Yekanians

Hello, I have been involved with theatre for a few years now and I have been receiving your acting tips through email for quite a while. I really enjoy your tips, they have helped me with many auditions. Just this last week I tried out for the play, “See How They Run.” It was a cold reading audition which was nerve wrecking for me because I’ve only done one cold reading audition. Your tips on cold readings helped a lot and got me over my nervousness. I made the call backs and later that evening learned that I had received the part of the Bishop. Thank you very much, your tips helped a lot through that audition.
- Elyjah Wilbur, California

Chad, Your site is sincerely an actress like mine’s dream! Thanks to your advice, I landed my first commercial a week after taking your tips for resumes and headshots!! It was amazing! I just filmed in NYC this weekend. I live for this site!
- Kimberly McDowell

Hi Chad, I just wanted to quickly let you know that what you are doing for all those actors out in the world is just fantastic. It is very admirable. Thanks again.
- Kailtyn Cox, Sydney, Australia

I enjoy reading your newsletters and share them with my students.
- Lani Brockman
Artistic Director, Studio East

Hi Chad, I love receiving the actor tips in my email. As an asst. director of a small community theater your tips are most welcome. We are starting a theater workshop so now more than ever those wonderful tips will come in handy.
- Lisa Bondrew
Asst. Director, The Harlequin Players

I just wanted you to know that I loved this issue and actually all of the information you provide. The information has been such a GREAT help to me.
- Marjorie Miller

Hey Chad! I have been receiving your email for the past year now. Since then I have been accepted into a four-year theatre program. I would just like to thank you for all the tips and advice along the way. I look forward to checking my email from you. ActorTips was very helpful to me because I am like those many emails I have read: “I want to be an actress, where do I begin?” So, I want to be an actress and I have begun. Just wanted to send a hello to let you know how beneficial your emails are, and make sure they continue.
- Ellie Gerber

By the way, as a relatively new actor, I find your newsletter invaluable and extremely helpful! Thanks for your wonderful site, wonderful information and clearly your dedication in providing your expertise to others. Actually, my daughter found you while looking for a monologue for an audition. However, since, in general, I don’t allow her to give her email out, she ends up giving mine. So, I get all your emails and forward them to her. We both love them.
- Carin Chea

I just wanted to let you know that your newsletter makes a real difference in my life. It’s a little reminder each time I check my inbox. Each tip your offer helps me grasp what is expected of me in the field and makes me feel like I have an advantage over other aspiring actors…and I do. Thank you so much for your generous support. I appreciate it so much.
- Holly Rankin, Sydney, Australia

Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU for your series by Ruth Kulerman. I’ve been reading ActorTips for a couple of years and have always enjoyed it. Ruth’s series was applicable not only to the professional actors but to many of us amateurs and teachers of amateurs. I direct Children’s Theater and high school theater, and have gained much from your ActorTips and Ms Kulerman’s series. She was so kind to respond directly by email to several of my questions and I sensed a professional attitude with a good dose of humility (not a common trait anymore!) Keep the great tips coming!
- Ana Clark, Dallas, TX

Just a quick note to say thanks to you and to Ruth Kulerman for providing the fabulous acting & career tips (I’m inspired to write this based on the recent email re: bad manners, you see!). It’s a really good reference to see how I’m going with my own career, what I can do to boost exposure etc and a way to stay in touch with the industry as a whole. So thank you for helping to keep so many of us on track. Cheers!
- Brenda McKinty, Australia

I absolutely love the newsletter about not being able to say no to professional acting. It is SO true! I’ve always been thinking that, but the way that it was said in this letter was perfect. I’ve been passing those words of advice on because I really connected to them. Thank you so much!
- Amber

My Name is Nicole DeRosa. I have been subscribed to your newsletter for a little over a year now, and I want to quickly express my gratitude for all of your helpful articles – they are wonderful.

I just wanted to say thank you so much for the free tips. I am pursuing an acting career and your tips are invaluable.
Sincerely, Fanci S. Gentry

Chad, Thank you for the tips and the information for my headshots and all. Your site is sincerely an actress like me’s dream! Thanks to your advice, I landed my first commerical a week after taking your tips for resumes and headshots!! It was amazing! I just filmed in NYC this weekend. A store like yours could only do well in an area like Boston out here. There is such untapped talent out there and people are always on the look for people like this. Thank you so much for writing and I hope this helps. I live for this site!
- Kimberly McDowell

Hello Mr Gracia, I received my copy of “Becoming a Successful Actor” and, as was said in The Producers, “Read it? I DEVOURED it!” Thank you for the multitude of good advice. Even though I am in Milwaukee and much of the references to New York would be difficult or impossible to apply here, the book as a whole is very helpful. Thank you again,
- Carol

Mr. Gracia, I just recently purchased your book, “Becomming A Successful Actor” and I love it. It really covers all the things I have yet to learn in a four year college. Don’t get me wrong, I love my acting classes but they don’t cover how to get work, headshots etc. So for that I thank you.
- Mike Schminke

Dear Mr. Gracia, My name is Rebecca Grimes, I am 16 and live in Ireland. I’ve finished high school this weeek and really wanted to go on to do acting in college. Well today i had an audition for one of the colleges in the city so i had to have two monologues prepared. I knew one that i would do, Willy Russell’s “Educating Rita”, but was completely clueless as to my second piece, which had to be in contrast to the others. It was during the week that I discovered your website and im now citing you as my saving grace! I chose “lost labours loved” and was preparing it all week, well my work certainly paid off as i got accepted to the college! They said they were extremely impressed with such an adventorous choice of monologue and that I was very brave for choosing a verse piece! I couldnt believe it when they offered me the place on the course, there and then! I’d just like to say thank you, because without your website,god only knows what might have happened today! Im so happy that I am getting the chance to go on and do this in college. I had an audition a couple of weeks back for a different college but i was rejected, my monologue was disastrous! but it gave me a feel of what an audition is like and what is expected of me, so I look on it as experience and undoubtedly, my first rejection of many! So now, thanks to you, I start drama college in the fall! Thank You So much, it sounds like a cliche, but you really have made a dream come true for me! Thanks again.
- Rebecca Grimes

Hi, My name is James Louis, and I wanted to say thank you for taking an interest in emailing me with such valuable information. As you know I am an inspired actor/model and trying to break into the business and the tips that you giving me are helping me a lot. Thank you.
- James Louis

GREAT ARTICLE! This was like an answer from “The Big Guy” upstairs. It is stuff I already knew or felt on the inside, but didn’t know I knew until you put it in words so eloqueintly. I’ve printed the article and it will be read over and over until it’s as worn as a bow-legged cowboy. Bow-legged cowboys do get worn don’t they? THANKS!
- Ryan Flanders, Atlanta, GA

Chad, I am not sure how much you realize your tips are appreciated by the public. As I go to each audition, I have your little reminders in the back of my head. I truly wanted to thank you and let you know that there are people in the world who take your advice to heart. Again, thank you. Sincerely,
- Alexandra

Dear Chad, All the way from Holland, I’d like to thank you very much for the stuff you sent. I work with kids and it’s always nice to get some extra inspiration. Kind regards,
- Nicky

Hello! My name is Shelia Weiss and I just wanted to thank you for the very first newsletter I have received when I signed up and this last one you have sent out. Although I have gotten valuable information out of most of your letters these have been the ones I have found to be extremely useful to me. The very first one said to go to any/all auditions. And just because of that I did/do and have gotten a part in 80% of what I have auditioned for. And in this last newsletter I found out I was doing everything wrong when it came to sending my headshot, resume and cover letter out. Thank you especially for that information. I have searched and read everything I could on this subject and still never found the information you just gave us. I just knew that they could tell I was new to this industry just by looking at the outside of my envelope and in turn they would just toss it. Now I feel like you have given us an edge and that now if I follow your advise that I may get past that stage now. Thank you, thank you!
- Shelia Weiss

Hello Mr. Gracia, My name is Cyrina Fiallo and I just wanted to thank you for this last e-mail you sent out. I am a theater major at Florida International University and am currently interning at The Late Show to increase my knowledge in television as well. My best friend thought for a long time that she should pursue acting and was ready to audition a few weeks ago at her school, but now she is not so sure anymore. I told her a lot of the same things you explained in your e-mail, but I am now going to send her your words as well because they are extremely informative and heartfelt in my opinion. I look forward to all of the e-mails you send out and I am especially grateful for this one. Thank you again,
- Cyrina Fiallo

Chad: Just a quick heads up…I teach high school drama. I love it! I work with the most diverse group of young men and women and each one is unique, yet we are a huge family. I appreciate your information and I share it enthusiastically with them. My dad was a sound engineer for CBS…Carol Burnett, Price is Right, Dinah Shore. etc, etc,…and I grew up in the professional world. I appreciate your frankness and honesty. It is refreshing. Working with these kids is a blast! There is definitely never a dull moment! Thanks for the excitement!
-Sandy Stones

Dear Chad, Just wanted to say out of ALL the garbage sites out there, yours is NOT one of them and you offer actors like myself valuable tips of the trade”without” being so.. philosophical. I like the tips and more importantly, the advice and information you give to actors, it’s very valuable and makes all the sense in the world. I look forward to reading your e-mails I get sent automatically. Just thought I’d let you know!
- Eddie Sicoli

As all of your actortips articles, the recent series has been extremely helpful for me (as a director of amateur/student theater) but this last one “Going from Good Acting to Great” was dynamite! Thank you,
Ana Clark, Director
Quo Vadis Players

Great, Great Newsletter. I’m performing in the Vagina Monologues this evening and I must say the tips in this newsltter have been absolutely helpful. Thank you! – Ebony Coles

Hello, I am not sure if anyone will actually read this, but I just want to thank you for giving me the opportunity to read the advise and knowledge that you give in this fantastic web site. I am currently working on a cruise ship and to be able to read your mail from any country in the world keeps my brain alive and my performance integrity strong. Whilst on the ship I am working toward creating a successful monologue for a audition I have when I get home. I am hoping to further my training and develop my acting ability and potential. I thank you for keeping my passion and determination fuelled. Smiles and giggles,
- Emma Miller

I just wanted to say that I really appreciate what you all are doing at Actor Tips. I’ve been subscribing to the newsletters for less than a year but today I just realized that I read every single one that is sent to me. I’m an actor in LA and I must admit that you guys help me continue my pursuit with diligence in more ways than you could imagine. I guess you’re like one of my veins. With that said…THANK YOU ALL for your support!
- Jelani Gibson

Dear Mr. Gracia, I would like to thank you for all the tips that you and your group share
with us. On February 21st, 2005, Issue #121, your team, in particular Ruth Kulerman, wrote a story about “embracing,” and it referred mostly to the energy that you must have when entering an audition, and not only you must have a great energy, attitude, confidence, etc, but also you MUST KNOW what you are doing, to know the material, to be brave and to be the BEST. My point on this email is, because it landed on my hands the same day that I had an interview with the ATLANTIC THEATER, and I knew what it takes to have a great interview, but that article BOOST ME UP! and I even got more energy and passion for what I want to become later on in life. A week and a half ago, I get this letter that Congratulates me and accepts me ino their school! Thanks again for all the tips, and also please thank Ruth Kulerman for all the help too! Sincerely, and looking forward for more issues
- Leonardo Nahas.

I know that you probably wont read this but just in case. I am a highschool student madly in love with acting (i am in an audition only school called Booker T. Washington in Dallas) I thought i had been good, but being in an art magnet school with TONS of talented people it’s hard to stand out. Just so you know, your 5 things they never teach in drama class really helped me on my monologue and your personal stories really gave me the confidence, I GOT THE LEAD in our UIL show!!! Thanks and good luck,
- Lauryn

Let me say for the record I enjoy your newsletters tremendously. and I am further impressed that you would take the time to communicate with me. It is good to know that you are not some marketer just trying to sell a product. I think the envelopes are great and will make the adjustments.
- Herb

Hello Chad, I just wanted to thank you for all the advice you have on your Actortips newsletter.Keep up the great work. All the best,
- Tom Giles

First time I read an ariticle by Ruth Kulerman and I had to write and say WORD!! Alot of actors waste time focusing on irrelevant issues when the only important issue at hand is to (as the cable-guy would say) “Get’er done”. With your dream in mind all is happiness. Ciao, Blessings

Hi Chad: Thanks for emailing me back! I am a huuuuge supporter of your services and products. I’m very happy you don’t just sell a product. You offer a service, full-fledged.
Always Reading, :0)
- Gem Silver

Chad, I just wanted to thank you for this fantastic service….I really look forward to all my tips and appreciate you sharing your knowledge.
Kathy – Actress, Melbourne Australia

Hi Chad, Mr. Gracia is probably more appropriate, but since email is an informal medium, and I’ve been receiving your weekly newsletter Actor Tips for the past year, It feels as if I know you, and therefore acceptable. Please excuse the assumption. This is just a quick note of thanks for your tips, suggestions, templates and articles by Ms. Kulerman. In a business where scams abound, and integrity is difficult to find, you truly shine as an advocate for the people. I recently moved from LA to NYC, and plan to use your ideas and products in my quest for theatrical work in NY. Thanks again for your significant contributions,
- Adam

Hi Chad. Every week I am reading your newsletters, and I want you to know how appreciative I am to have something constructive and supportive to read as I sift through the anxiety-producing casting notices! I am constantly printing them out and taping them to my shelves as reminders and mottos. They help me breathe. Your tips are great, and once in a while it is amazingly reassuring to have someone (besides my soothing boyfriend) spit them back out at me like a martial arts teacher. HIYA! So I just wanted to say thanks. Sincerely,
- Jeanette Bonner

I just signed up, like, three days ago, and already I’ve got a bunch of stuff that can help me. I appreciate it. Thanks a million.
- Akia Sembly

Hi, I just wanted to say that every single news letter that you send me helps in a way that you couldn’t imagine! Thank you!
- StevePaul!

Hi Chad, Just a note to let you know i received the resume paper that was in exchange for the casting director guides, you made it so painless to do the exchange, again many thanks. You are an A1 class act, and you can quote me on that. I will look forward to purchasing more products from you in the future. Your friend,
- Antonio

Dear Chad, Just wanted to tell you that I think your newsletter is really neat.  I have been acting for @ 15 years now and agree with your information/suggestions.  I think its a great little resource for those starting in the business but there are also bits that are impressed upon me anew. So just wanted to give you this little vote of appreciation for all you do.  Hopefully, our paths will cross someday and I can shake your hand with gratitude. Ciao, Blessings,
- Susanna Guzman

We want to thank you for all the great info you give us!  We read and put into practice all the tips you give us!  Have a safe trip to Florida!  May God Bless You for all the people you help!
- Graylyn and her mom Vicki

Dear Chad, I am so grateful to have joined on to your newsletter.  It is so helpful and informative.  Every actor trying to get work and seek advice would greatly benefit from it. I’ve already taken advantage of some of your great offers including those brilliant see through envelopes.  I just placed an order for them.  Thanks so much!
- Elizabeth Santos

Chad, just wanted to take a min and say thanks for the “TIPS” although I consider them Golden Nuggets!!I’m on the ROCKY 6 set filming in Philly. (I can’t seem to get off the set , as we are still filming) Your TIPS remain in my head. Respectfully,
- SHAWN MICHAEL MACOLA

Chad: I really would like to give you personally thousands of thanks! really, you’ve helped me a lot, really like nobody ever did, so, thanks again!
- Charlie Blue

Hi Chad, I’m sure it’s not a surprise to you but these audition tips really work! Last week, I had my first audition in 3 1/2 years and got a call back by using your tips. Thanks again for the tips, I will be using them every time.
- Alison Lumbatis

Hi Chad, I just wanted to say THANK YOU! for offering the acting community such an invaluable and generous service. As a 34 year old…I always wanted to act and now – with the help of your advice I have taken the plunge and have not looked back. Out of 7 auditions I have secured 4 of the roles…and I also now have an agent. I feel blessed to be able to receive regular information that ‘fills my tool box’. Thanks again.
- Yvette (Perth, Western Australia)

Hello Chad! I am a high school theatre teacher in San Diego. I stumbled across your web site last year and have since made it a much used website. I downloaded a copy of the 10 tips and found it so helpful that I would like permission to copy and give it to my Advanced acting classes– there are 65 students. Thank you!
- Kirsten Giard, Valhalla Theatre Arts

Newsletter     Volume I-2    Greece – May 2011

Cross posted from http://www.philomobile.com/main/index.php/newsletter/greece-may2011