Why do you do it?

As actors, we frequently accept a variety of jobs when we are in between shows. This includes waiting tables, nannying and even dreadful street promotions. Rarely do we come across a temp job that gives us anything more than a 15% tip and feelings of uselessness. However, on those special occasions when we are lucky enough to accept a job where we leave feeling inspired, it is reason enough to continue our passionate lifestyle and dismiss external negativity.

My nanny agent called me the other day to see if I was available to work a movie premiere at MoMA. Not doing anything Tuesday. Why not? I would be the guardian of the directors 9-year-old son, while he and his wife mingled with the crowds.

The premiere was for an HBO documentary called "The Lazarus Effect." This story is about the dramatic transformation of individuals living with HIV in Africa. When given 2 antiretroviral pills costing 40 cents a day, they can live a full life with HIV instead of dying from AIDS. It's a powerful film supported by the (RED) campaign and the Global Fund.

HBO Documentary: The Lazarus Effect trailer

I was desperately trying to not be a royal spazmatic when meeting director, Lance Bangs, and his wife, Corin Tucker. Here, I was supposed to keep their child entertained for the next 4 hours and I just prayed he didn't choke or fall down a flight of stairs while he was in my care. Marshall, the kid, turned out to be incredibly cool to talk to and we hit it off immediately. As we were sitting in the theater he leans over to me and says that the guy who plays Anakin Skywalker from Star Wars is sitting in front of us.

"Wait. What? That is not Hayden Christensen! It looks nothing like him!"

"Trust me. It's him."

Hayden turns my way and glances at me.

"Oh. My. Gosh. Marshall, that's Hayden Christensen."

"Duh!"

I convinced Marshall to go up to Hayden at the end of the premiere and say he was a big fan so I could meet him. Unfortunately, Hayden booked it out of the theater giving me no time to turn on the charm. I told Marshall he was a horrible wing-man. He didn't seem to mind.

Naturally, Lance was darting throughout the room, walking on the red carpet, and talking to press the whole evening so I didn't get to talk to him much. However, I was able to snag some time from Corin to ask her about the film. She mentioned how the producers really sought out Lance and wanted him to direct this documentary. That the experience really changed their lives and their family. They both seemed so down to earth and genuine about the project and the people they have touched and will touch due to the nature of the film.

After attending an event like this it reminds that as actors, or musicians, or writers, or directors we have so much power to influence the human mind. We do it through our words, music, and actions. It reminds me why I even got into acting in the first place. And that was to create the ability to make someone FEEL something. To introduce them or remind them of an idea or feeling that they may never have recognized within themselves.

I am so thankful and proud of those who created "The Lazarus Effect." It takes guts, heart, and sacrifice to make a film like this. If you are interested in learning more about the film and (RED) here is a link. "The Lazarus Effect" premieres on Monday, May 24.