I'm back from my trip to Prague, where I took on the role of the Neighbor Elisabeth in Lucie Groene's film "The Beggar's Story."
As many of you may know, I’m living and working in Germany for the summer, writing my scripts, developing various productions, acting when the opportunity arises and enjoying the summer amidst cobblestones, castles, cafes, bicycles and biergartens.
For “The Beggar’s Story,” I took the train from Berlin to Prague and was picked up personally by the director, her self. We drove to the beautiful, tiny village of Zelenice, where the only other language the locals spoke was Russian, and I couldn't help but feel as if I had been transported 100 years back in time.
Filming with a Czech crew is like nothing I've ever experienced. The professionals on set were top-rate, but they sure do like their cigarettes and beer. Unlike in the States, where no one breaks until the official announcement is made, the Czech crew seemed to have just stopped for lunch and a beer whenever they felt like it.
The craziest moment was when we were all set for shooting the final scenes for the day. Everything was set up -- lighting, perfect, camera and crew, prepared, the director and supporting actors ready to go -- except for the main character, the shopkeeper. His name called -- no response. He was no where to be found.
And then, finally, after the Czech A.D. went on a search throughout the village, our actor was found. He had decided to go the local pub for another drink.
I couldn't help but laugh and shake my head.
Still, that being said, I was impressed by how well they all work together, how relaxed the atmosphere on set was, and how much we were able to accomplish in a short amount of time.
The biggest lesson learned? Tolerance and openness is part of international film-making. One person's beer is another's water.
