An American Dream Comes True
E
fraiem Hanna is one funny guy…which is amazing given his story of struggles and challenges in a brand new country where he is sometimes hindered by discrimination and the occasional language barrier (though Hanna speaks English he can at times be rather difficult to comprehend).
One thing that never gets lost in translation, however, is that effervescent smile, all the more striking given that Hanna was born in Egypt and raised in strife. He finally immigrated to the United States to join his family who had already made the trip from Cairo. Once on American soil, it didn’t take long for Hanna to realize his purpose in life: that of becoming a full-time actor. In between studies to obtain his green card (he will soon become an American citizen), Hanna researched acting opportunities: on the Internet, in newspapers, wherever information could be found. Never one to succumb to disappointment, Hanna then researched production companies that specialized in new talent (he had none). With a staunch belief in himself and his acting capabilities (as limited as they were), Hanna struck gold in an independent film called “Terror at Ten Acres.” The low budget film was just the impetus he needed to muddle through an already saturated industry. Before long he was seen in short films, all the while making connections – and good friends – along the way.
Hanna’s hard work finally paid off. He recently completed “Sex, Lies and Fish,” as well as an unnamed TV pilot (in both projects Hanna plays the lead character). Not bad at all for a relatively new artist with just one acting class under his belt. An obvious non-conformist, while Hanna is a firm believer in proper instruction, he also has his own way of looking at the multitude of acting courses one can feel pressured to take. As he puts it,
“We all act in our everyday life, so why not just act like an actor?” Humor aside, the thespian has a solid outlook regarding his place in the industry. “I am proud to be an actor but would absolutely love to produce my own films,” he says. With a serious tone, he then offers his best advice for up-and-comers who wish to follow his path. “Keep a positive and cheerful attitude. Be nice to everyone you meet because word travels quickly in this industry. Have goals and stay focused. Know the industry; there are far too many scammers out here who will try to take advantage of your naïveté. And lastly, separate yourself from the naysayers who don’t believe in you.
“Once you doubt yourself, it’s hard to bounce back.” Wise words from the future award-winning actor – Mr. Efraiem Hanna. You can keep up with Efraiem Hanna at
efraiemhanna.com/ & imdb.com/name/nm4767031 J Blair Brown is a publicist and freelance writer from Harrisburg, PA, as well as the host of the popular internet radio talk show “Livin’ the Dream! with J Blair Brown