Interview with Ryan Barrier by Christos Arfanis
Ryan Barrier, a Southern California native, husband, father, respected professional and inspiring actor. In Spring 2023, Ryan began pursuing acting, honing his unique highly sought after work ethic, securing roles as a Lead, Supporting, Principal, Featured and beyond. Ryan has accumulated decades of high level corporate management, multiple speaker presentations, hosting across the globe, with decades of experience providing high level hospitality for multi million dollar platforms that has catered to the development of his craft and passion for being a strong asset for productions to work with.
CHRISTOS ARFANIS: What inspired you to transition from a successful corporate career to acting?
RYAN BARRIER: A family friend said, “This is for you”, “You can do this”, “You have that look, that Voice” and then actually DOING rather than just talking or thinking about it; otherwise the unknown would remain the unknown. I was thinking of alternative ways to pivot my lifestyle, career and future. What will challenge me and give me the chance to break the monotony, The first day on set of a National TV Series, experiencing the excitement, passion, buzz and all the controlled chaos that goes into the creative process, I was hooked. Taking in that moment and opportunity, changed everything. As all actors do or should do, I interviewed every individual possible during his time on set to educate myself, as well as observe the canvas that’s being painted right in front of me. I said to myself “There’s so much to learn, as I watch the Director, Assistant Director, Cinematographers, Producers, Production Assistants, All Actors, Sound Engineers, Set Designers, Costume Dept, HMU, Gaffers, and much more. A community right before my eyes, Diverse, Asstonishing, Intriguing and this is just being on set, imagine all the other facets behind the camera…… I never looked back, but of course, there’s much more to this story…….
CHRISTOS ARFANIS: How has your background in corporate management and hospitality influenced your approach to acting?
RYAN BARRIER: My journey leading up to the pivotal moment in time becoming an actor are blessings that give me the strength, confidence, and foundation to dive-in head first with intention, a “Maverick”. The Entertainment Industry is a business of professionals, a community and network of endless opportunities, but the understanding of the investment being made regardless of the production must be respected. The variety of positions involved behind / in front of the camera and beyond, is run like a business, a team of individuals with common goals, but being an Actor allows me to be a “Camillian” and adapt to a variety of projects, personalities, concepts, platforms and directions. My life experiences, combined with solid family support, Faith and Self Motivation caters to the business model; there is no limit to what can be accomplished. Trials, tribulations and the Keep Fighting on attitude are a must. I’ve accumulated decades of high level corporate management, sales, marketing, multiple speaker presentations, hosting across the globe, with decades of providing high level hospitality for multi million dollar platforms that has catered to the development and passion for being a strong asset for productions, the “Camillian” / The “Maverick”.
CHRISTOS ARFANIS: Can you tell us about your first acting role and how you landed it?
RYAN BARRIER: When on set, regardless of the production, acquire as much information you can. Talk to people, educate yourself and find out which platforms to find more projects that you can apply for, which is exactly what must be done as part of the evolution as an actor. My very first audition; “Captain O’Neill” in the multiple award winning feature film The Master Chief Movie Part One, a project that jumped off the screen. I submitted a self tape, received the booking and was blown away, thankful, on cloud 9! What a tremendous opportunity to be a part of a special project and a platform to ignite my fire. Director, Writor, Actor, Chris Soriano holds true to his mission, the “Find a Way” fight with diversity, heritage, culture, and upbringing through the magic of Independent Film. This is one of the projects that motivates me each day to stay the course. Much much more to this story as well, Especially the back story leading up to this movie and the aftermath.
CHRISTOS ARFANIS: What were some of the biggest challenges you faced when starting out in the entertainment industry?
RYAN BARRIER: The Entertainment Industry offers many avenues, behind the camera or in front, but taking action and educating yourself is a priority. Don’t sit back, get out there and find out more. The “Biggest Challenge” is truly yourself. Having the support from family or friends is great, but it’s up to “YOU” ultimately. Pushing yourself, making sacrifices, having a strong work ethic, the “get back up” attitude, staying focused, acting classes, collaborating with others, learn from your peers, read, watch, listen, believe in yourself and continue to stay in motion. Truly submerging yourself. Educate, Motivate, Excel. Audition, Audition, Audition……….
CHRISTOS ARFANIS: “The Master Chief: Part One” has been a significant project for you. Can you share your experience working on this film?
RYAN BARRIER: Amazing, Gratitude, Thankful,Fun, Educational, Drama, Passion, Life Changing, Supporting, Relationship Building, Talented, just a few words that come to mind to say the least. It’s impressive how this film came together. Filming on set of an actual US Navy ship, wearing authentic Navy Uniforms, Working alongside passionate individuals, and realizing making a movie is a blast! Here’s a film of diverse independent talent coming together to film a movie paying tribute to the Filipino U.S. Navy sailors, the U.S Navy and the many Filipino-American immigrants. When I think “Filipino Mafia” I think of a band of individuals that come together to lift one another through support, community and family. A “together we can attitude” and believe in your own abilities to take on challenges without giving up or letting what others think deter you. The Master Chief Movie Part One, streaming now on Prime Video, Apple TV, YouTube, Fandango, Tubi and more. I’ll always remember this film from the audition, first day on set , the day I wrapped, marketing, promoting, red carpet and release of the film. I’m very thankful.
CHRISTOS ARFANIS: Are there any particular roles or genres you are passionate about and hope to explore in the future?
RYAN BARRIER: Movies, Motion Pictures, Feature Films, Short Films, TV Series — Filming in the United States and Abroad. To be able work on a variety of projects in various locations, sets, studios and unique areas. Work with talented Directors that are passionate about the vision of each scene. Dramas, Thrillers, Action/Adventure; Mystery and beyond. The future awaits…
CHRISTOS ARFANIS: How do you prepare for a role? Do you have any specific techniques or routines?
RYAN BARRIER: There is no secret recipe or technique. Routines are created through repetition, and most actors will agree, the audition is wonderful, but once you are booked / cast, the character comes to life. An audition gives a perception, but when I can put the hard work into the role, that’s when I breathe life to the role and give the “Character” an eternal heart beat. Dissecting the scene morning, noon, night. Reviewing lines morning, noon, night. Researching Why, Who, Where, Direction, Objective, Present, Future, Purpose. Regardless of the role; Once I’m cast; Get to Work! For me, I find it important to research your scene partners, writers, directors, producers, production and all involved in developing the project. The more you know will set the table for success.
CHRISTOS ARFANIS: What has been the most rewarding moment in your acting career so far?
RYAN BARRIER: It’s rewarding to be recognized for the work it takes to become an actor. Being a part of a project in general is a blessing, but when others around you such as your peers or family say “Wow way to go” or “Congratulations” or “Keep Going”, that alone is motivating and rewarding itself. I’m just thankful to have the ability to do this work and for what is yet to come. The Entertainment Community is vast and being able to build relationships with individuals is very rewarding. I’ve meant and worked with people that are talented beyond words; I love the diversity. There’s a long road ahead. I’m going to embrace and cherish every moment.
CHRISTOS ARFANIS: What upcoming projects are you excited about?
RYAN BARRIER: Including myself, we have to wait and see. I’m most excited about the journey and continuing to build my platform, and looking forward to the multitude of Films, Series and Streaming projects on the horizon.
CHRISTOS ARFANIS: Where do you see yourself in the next five years in the entertainment industry?
RYAN BARRIER: Continuing my career in acting and making a solid living. I’ll keep the faith.
CHRISTOS ARFANIS: What advice would you give to someone looking to make a career change into acting?
RYAN BARRIER: Stop talking about it and do it. The industry has many doors you can open, go open one. Be confident, you can’t be everything to everyone, and learn from all others around you. Find your own way. Think about it; Commercials, Modeling, Lifestyle, Branding, Social Platforms, YouTube, Film, TV, Mini Series, Documentaries, Background, Plays, Theatre, Broadway, Lead, Supporting, Day Player, Co-Star, Guess Star, Reoccurring; YOU CAN DO IT — Take the first step.
CHRISTOS ARFANIS: Who are your biggest inspirations in the acting world?
RYAN BARRIER: I’m inspired by those who do it, actually doing and putting in the work. Yes, there’s the stars, but it’s the individuals that are making a living and feeding their families, they inspire me. There will be great actors, I tell myself everyday that I am one of them, I want to show the world, but to be able to feed my family, make a living, that’s my goal and priority.
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/RyanBarrier
Instagram: {The_RyanBarrier_Experience}
IMDb: https://pro.imdb.com/name/nm14897882?s=34c809b1-30a2-b3b2-e8c1-945420940332&site_preference=normal
YouTube : http://www.youtube.com/@theryanbarrierexperience
E-Talenta site: https://www.e-talenta.eu/members/profile/ryan-barrier
Filmmakers.eu Site:
Profile link: https://www.filmmakers.eu/en/actors/ryan-barrier
Casting Networks Site Profile link: https://app.castingnetworks.com/talent/public-profile/3bcd13d8-bf7f-11ed-8548-d3cfcc5ac703
Christos, Thank you for the platform, Congratulations on all your past projects, future and continuing to be creative. One of my dreams is to work in Films in Greece. I have a strong connection to Greece through my wife’s family. I love the traditions, food, culture, music, agriculture, history, the people and immersing myself into the lifestyle… I love being in Greece! Thank you to Thanasis, Enorama for connecting one another and to you both for collaborating on building one anothers brands/platforms.
Ryan Barrier.
