Answering the Call: How One Text Brought Me Back to Acting

By Danny Juare

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Sitting comfortably on my couch, mindlessly scrolling through whatever social media channel had my attention at the moment, I got a text notification from a colleague over at LIFE (Latinos in Film + Entertainment). Nothing out of the ordinary—until I read the follow-up message: "I’m shooting my first film in Las Vegas. Do you act?"

That was it. One simple question. And just like that, my heart started racing, my mind spinning. Little did I know that one message from Rosa Falu would completely shake up my life (in the best way possible) for the next two weeks.

As Reverend Hale in The Crucible

Before this opportunity, my last real acting experience was way back in high school. I took the stage as Hamlet, performed in Into the Woods and The Crucible, and absolutely loved it.

Sure, there were a few acting classes along the way, even a couple of non-verbal short commercials, but nothing that really let me sink my teeth into a character with depth.

But if there’s one thing I knew for sure—it never stopped calling me back. I missed it. I longed to return to the stage.

So, do I act?

Technically, yes.

It’s just been… oh, three decades or so. No big deal.

So why such a long break? Fair question. Honestly? Life happens. You think you have a set path, a clear vision of where you’ll be in 5, 10, 20 years. You map it out, plan for it, chase it. And then—curveball. Life veers off in a direction you never expected. And sometimes, it takes something as simple as a random text message to shake things up and remind you of the path you once imagined. Maybe even put you back on track to the version of yourself you always hoped to be. But that detour? Well that’s for another time.

Back to the story at hand—two weeks until filming begins, and the fun is just getting started. Zoom rehearsals turn into rewrites, character tweaks, and deep dives into the story. Being part of that process, having input in shaping the characters, isn’t just fascinating—it’s an education in itself. Fast forward a few days, the cast is locked in, final Zoom rehearsals are wrapped, and now it’s smooth sailing, right?

Walking onto the set of “Woof Intervention” that first morning, I was blown away. The sheer amount of gear made me want to spin around and belt out “If you want to view paradise…” (but, you know, professionalism).

The lights. The cameras. The energy. People buzzing around, anticipation crackling in the air—it was intoxicating. Meeting so many new faces, all united by a common goal—to create something special—was beyond inspiring.

But what really hit me? Seeing so many young Latinos involved in every facet of filmmaking—sound, directing, photography, makeup, production—proving that we belong in every part of this industry. It was a full-circle moment, a reminder of why LIFE (Latinos in Film + Entertainment) matters. Representation isn’t just about being in front of the camera. It’s about owning the process from start to finish.

Now I know every film production comes with its fair share of unexpected delays and hiccups, so I don’t know why I was caught off guard when it happened here. But there I was, experiencing the infamous hurry up and wait firsthand.

The upside? It gave me time to connect with my fellow actors and crew—hearing their stories, learning what led them to this project. Those conversations weren’t just a way to pass the time; they were encouraging, uplifting, and a reminder that we were all here for the same reason: to create.

And then—finally—my time to shine.

Hearing the assistant director yell “Action!” threw me for a second (wait, they call it, not the director?). I guess I hadn’t thought much about the hierarchy on set—maybe it varies from film to film. But the moment the cameras rolled, something unexpected happened—the nerves, the anxiety, the second-guessing? Gone.

With each scene, it felt like no time had passed since I was last on stage. It was exhilarating, freeing—an absolute rush. Not just an adrenaline rush (okay, maybe a little), but more like a surge of creative endorphins kicking in.

Getting to collaborate and conspire with my scene partners (shoutout to Rosa, Abel, and Carmynn!) made the thrill of creating even sweeter. Every take, every adjustment, every unspoken moment of connection—it was deliciously addictive.

Honestly? I only wish I had more time, more scenes, more everything. If it weren’t for my other commitments (see: back to my life detour), I don’t think I ever would have left set. Even after my coverage (another term I picked up), I would have happily stayed just to watch the rest of the magic unfold.

So a huge thank you to Rosa for believing in me and casting me, to Rob Alicea (LIFE cofounder) for throwing my name in the mix, and to the entire cast and crew for indulging me on this wild creative ride. Words can’t fully capture my admiration for their dedication, talent, and passion.

I’m especially grateful that LIFE played such a pivotal role in giving me that extra push (or let’s be honest, a kick) to step back into the world where my passion truly lies.

And now, until the film is released and the buzz of excitement begins again, I’ll just sit back and bask in the moment. Because even if this is my only (though I really hope it’s not) foray into filmmaking, I know this—every delay, every laugh, every puppy nip—it was all worth it.