The Hopeful Heart of an Actress

Marili Supports the NOH8 Campaign.

2012-02-11T21:56:00.000-08:00

Hotel Monoco- The Courtyard Social

2011-12-13T08:55:00.000-08:00

Print for Hotel Monoco, a Kimpton Hotel.

DCMA INDUSTRIAL

2011-10-06T08:08:00.000-07:00

Below is a link to another industrial done for the Department of Contract and Management Agency.

Property Management Specialist

Cheers,

M

Interview with Wardolphin.com

2011-08-24T19:35:00.000-07:00

Below is an interview I did with Wardolphin.com after shooting their recent video "Ovni". I can honestly say that working with Dolphin on this video was a humbling experience. It was my first music video as the lead [and only] actress and I couldn't have asked for a more perfect opportunity. I was very pleased with the final product and to have worked with such a visionary. He is, without a doubt, an outstanding musician and an amazing artist with such an admirable and charming character. Much respect.

Interview Link:
*: Meet "Ovni" Actress - The Amazing Marili Kateri: "It's not too often I come across someone with passion, work ethic, talent, and beauty all combine...

Click on photo for sounds by Dolphin

Cheers

Fight Demo Reel

2011-08-11T21:39:00.000-07:00

Actress Marili Mejias in various fight sequences.

Renaissance Hotels Industrial (Video)

2011-08-11T16:05:00.000-07:00

Marili as the role of Tara, a hotel ambassador for Renaissance Hotels, Marriott Hotels Inc.

Summer 2011

2011-08-10T12:24:00.000-07:00

Photography by Ty Moore

Cheers,

M

A Myriad of "Creativity"

2011-07-25T20:01:00.000-07:00

Innovation from an organic place. To make a different or unique something. Everyone's personal way of style to create ideas. An individual and unique outward expression of personal views or outlooks on the world. Expression of imagination and fantasy through some type of visual something. Expression of uniqueness brought forth. A gift from God that helps people connect to meaning. How one expresses themselves through their beliefs, thoughts, environment and what they come in contact with. How one wants to be seen through the eyes of others. A unique product of a persons interpretation of a factor in the environment around them. The original thoughts coming from ones imagination. How to express yourself- to be different. Expression of your most inner thoughts and feelings.

Whatever your definition of creativity its, just know that it is one trait we all have in common. If you can imagine it, you can be it. Do it.

Light.

New Reel

2011-07-13T14:30:00.000-07:00

Renaissance Hotels Industrial

2011-07-12T18:48:00.000-07:00

Marili recently wrapped on the set of an industrial film for Renaissance Hotels where she played a principal role. Below are stills from the shoot. Marili is photographed with actress Cheryl Scungio

Artist P.I.E. — Marili Mejias | PieHole Magazine

2011-05-19T08:41:00.000-07:00

Artist P.I.E. — Marili Mejias | PieHole Magazine

Dolphin- "Ovni"

2011-05-19T08:20:00.000-07:00

Marili plays the leading lady in the music video "Ovni" by artist, Dolphin. Check it out! Cheers!

Directed by Miguel Sabogal

Experience Dolphin's Music here

Yuengling Beer TV Spot

2011-03-29T06:56:00.000-07:00

Click the photo below and play TV Spot 5 to see Marili in Yuengling's newest commercial now airing!

Ciao!

Zombie Doomsday by Gawid Entertainment

2011-03-25T07:36:00.000-07:00

Check out the trailer for the film I had the pleasure of being apart of called "Zombie Doomsday" directed by Tom Townsend and Nick Baily of Gawid Entertainment. Alot of local TALENTED actors are apart of this film and I'm anxious to see it!!

Zombie Doomsday Official Movie Website

Be sure to check out Gawid Entertainment's official facebook page HERE
and don't forget to subscribe to their Youtube Here!!
To buy Zombie Doomsday click HERE!

Cheers!!

IMAGE Part Deux: The diversely skilled actor

2011-03-25T06:55:00.000-07:00

Workshops make a killing off of broke actors. I always joked that actors are the most broke group of people on earth. But I understand that the more diverse your skills are, the better chance you have at booking different kinds of work. Yes, we all know its about "the look" and whether you have it or not, but talent does have its place too. If you book a job during the "feast" periods of your career, or ever its better that you have the chops to work it. During the "famine" periods where your not getting any calls for auditions, its training time. There are ultimately two ways you can train- at home for free, or pay for a class somewhere. Me, I do both. At home I read a scene or a monologue, tape myself then watch for two reasons: 1.) to see where I am strong and weak at, performance wise, and 2.) to get comfortable in front of the camera. For classes it's good to train in character development and character analysis, Meisner and Stanislavsky. Take a dance class or two, improvisation classes and theatre. Anything you can get your hands on, just do it! (nike swoosh!) Read a book...Whether its training to hone your acting skill or learning a whole new skill all together, it can NEVER hurt.

My point is, your looks go but your knowledge and skill will always outlive. Those assets cannot be taken away from you because you've ingrained them in your personality. They are apart of who your are.

Now, I'm not suggesting you go and learn a crazy skill that you never saw yourself doing. You might want to stick to your interests. For instance, me I like to dance so I would naturally go towards learning different dance skills and place them on my resume once I've learned them. THAT is part of what makes up my IMAGE. We all have a unique one that is profitable. Its imperative that we capitalize on those innate skill abilities that compliment and enhance our very own beautiful and unique image. It will not only benefit you professionally, but personally as well. You will be more proud of yourself, more confident. :)

Currently, I am training in two areas to build my skill repertoire: theatre ensemble and JAZZ DANCE!! (I LIVE in that class, let me tell you!) I am also continuing with learning Spanish, which is my native language that I unfortunately never picked up. So I guess that actually makes three areas...I'm taking advantage of my down time by keeping myself up with efforts to diversify my skills and opening up my mind and senses to the world..because I am an actor and my life is to perform with pride and exuberance. Whether its professionally for the camera or personally for myself.

Let's all be great friends...because we can. :)

Ciao

LiLi

"Enhance the best asset you have-YOU."

"Sharpen the saw."

Photo Credits- George Remington-Marili Various

IMAGE Parte 1: Balancing your Hollywood and Home self.

2011-03-03T08:21:00.000-08:00

They say its all about the look.

That's the business part about showbiz. Then comes talent. But if they like your look enough, they'll teach you what they want you to do".

Words from an industry professional.

I guess I've always known this. There are too many talentless individuals in showbiz that are huge stars (a harsh judgment, I know but we all think it). Yet I continue to fork out money for training anyway. I've always felt that it is important for me to back up 100% the skills on my resume. I take pride in my skills. Everyday I aspire to be the type of person and performer I want to be. Its ironic how I picked in my opinion the most vain and narcissistic career one can ever choose when I'm neither. Well, maybe I am a little. I guess all actors have to be.

Image is such a funny thing because in this business you want to have the one everybody wants to hire. In other words, you want everyone to want YOU. That's a crazy and scary idea, if you think about it.. Every actor wants to be the best, but for me there is a bitter struggle with attaining that kind of image. That struggle is loosing your real or home self in the process. Finding that balance is key for those who value humility. If not we'd all just sell our souls to the first Hollywood god, or devil, that comes along. I believe that grounding, foundation, morals, and any sense of family are valuable to ones sanity because in Hollywood sanity goes out the window and is replaced with vanity within a quickness. Those blessings of being grounded, having a solid foundation of who I am, where I came from and how I reached my goals, my personal morals and family are things I grew up with and make me who I am. That make anyone who they are.. -Ques in violin music-. As corny as it may sound, they are what I call home. A place where I feel at peace within my whole self and just be myself, truly...

But my career is also a big part of that feeling as well...

So, with that being said can an actor have their Hollywood self and maintain their home self at the same time? Can you have the glitz and the glam, the wealth and the "image" but still maintain humility and not let it all go to your head?

photo credit Picasso's-Girl Before the Mirror.

2011-02-15T04:54:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines Day to me! Interview is up! Me and my rizados (curls) are very happy! Check out the interview I did with Ouidad, The Curl Experts! Click the link below! And buy something!

GETTING CURLY WITH OUIDAD!!

CHEERS!!

The Bucket List.

2011-02-14T20:40:00.000-08:00

I am a lover of life and all its possibilities. I want a life filled with no regrets, endless excitement, spontaneous-infectious-everlasting-unconditional-consuming love. I want to act in films and work with the most creative minds in the film industry. I want to see the seas that divide our lands, travel to the most exotic shores and deprived worlds. I want to drink wine from the best vineyards and ride a stallion on the sands of Santirini. I want to love passionately and be desired as if it were his last drink. Visit the coasts of south America and listen to the sounds of the Spanish guitar in Barcelona. Meet the girl from Ipanema. Visit the island of Vieques. Never fear and always love, strive and dance. I want to see all that is to be seen and experience all that is to be experienced that is good, and know the true feeling of being free. I want to engage in conversations with artists, poets, painters and musicians...and know what it is to truly express this great thing we call our feelings. I want to understand and be understood. I want to make true love. Feel true love, and be in true love...and know true love.

Li

Protective Shield

2011-01-17T14:26:00.000-08:00

Monologue

In this monologue, I act as Rita, a woman who talks about how difficult it is for her to open up to people she cares about, and why. A woman who has been burned many times in the past by those she loved the most. In her eyes, vulnerability is a sign of weakness, and protection against emotional pain is the only way to gain and keep her strength. Ironically, in the process of speaking, opening up is exactly what she ends up doing. This monologue is a display of her release, without her realizing it. A release from her never allowing herself to express what she really feels inside. Shes a strong character, who doesn't break easily but is still very much emotional. Life has made her this way.

Stanley Black N Decker

2011-01-16T20:27:00.001-08:00

Original Post
Cima Talent Black and Decker

New Photos

2011-01-12T20:08:00.000-08:00

Cheers!

photo credit Derek Chase www.ThePhotoChase.com

Baby its cold outside!!

2011-01-11T17:25:00.000-08:00

Have you ever just stood outside as its snowing and realized how silent everything around is? I just did and it was pretty neat..I know what your thinking, "whatever Marili" or "so what, whats your point?". Well, for some reason the silence captivated me..Its like, everything is absolutely still or makes way for Jack Frost to come through and leave his wintery mark. The sound of stillness fascinates me, probably because my life is filled with so much damn noise. Latinos are loud, you know. All I could hear were the small icy flakes delving into the snow already snuggled beneath, and it was so cool to me..I dont like the cold but I do like the snow, yes its possible..Next time it snows, go outside and just listen to how still the world is..Maybe, if your like me, you'll actually and finally be able to hear yourself think..

Photography by Derek Chase www.ThePhotoChase.com

Dare to be different.

2011-01-08T14:55:00.000-08:00

I cant express enough how much I desire to be taken seriously as an actor. I guess more importantly, I cant stress how much it means to me for others to take my time, my talent, and my eagerness seriously. I think I crave so much to be looked at as a versatile talent capable of delivering different types of characters and not just a certain kind (typecast). Not that being typecast is a bad thing, it can be good if your getting steady or constant work. I just think after a while it doesn't really promote skill growth, at least in my opinion anyway. Playing the same kind of character essentially would become well, monotonous in a sense. Im a person made up of many different parts- I'm part sexy, part butch, part tomboy, part sweet and naive, I dont mind a little dirt under my nails, things like that. I train to advance and diversify my skill as an actor and try to understand and observe the people around me...their perspectives as well as their frame of thinking..they say the best way to train as an actor is to just observe the different types of people around you, so you can know how to act like them when/if called to... I mean, it makes sense, right? All acting is is acting like somebody else, essentially. I admire the likes of Hilary Swank for instance. She played a boy in "Boys Dont Cry", a boxer in "Million Dollar Baby" (which I loved!), and soared in "Amelia" as the legendary Amelia Earhart (phenom movie!) Shes incredible to me, absolutely incredible. This caliber of talent serves as my guide, my goal, my objective! Im on my way, though I know have a long road ahead. But Ive always known what it is I have to do to get to where I want be. My only competition is myself.

Below are some photos taken from a film production. The characters look changes several times. She symbolizes a psychological change in the main character's mind. I liked this character because she was different.

Some old VJ work

2010-12-31T19:56:00.000-08:00

Industrial for Time Warner stills

2010-12-30T14:36:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone!! Thanks for stopping in! Below are some shots taken while on set for the Time Warner Inc Industrial I booked a couple of weeks ago. I played a barista named Sidney, and the whole premise of the film was about workplace ethic. So the actor I played opposite of and myself acted out both good and bad work ethics. Good times!!

Senior Cut Day Trailer teaser

2010-12-19T07:36:00.000-08:00

Check out the teaser for Senior Cute Day directed by Alvin Gray of 7/8 Productions

Here are some stills of myself, from set. First role, homeless scavenger.

Second role in the film as one of the main character's prom dates. Prom scene.

Fight Scene 2

2010-12-13T21:36:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone! Here is just a snippet of a fighting scene I did. My apologies for no sound. Once I figure how to fix it, I will re-post!

Practicing with Swords.

Happy Holidays from me and my little friend!

2010-12-09T19:06:00.000-08:00

This time a year is definitely a time of selflessness, warmth and love. I cant help but to appriciate the love and warmth I feel from the simple things like walking past a cafe with ppl inside warming up with their eggnog spice lattes, or walking through a book store that has holiday jazz tunes playing, or seeing everyone bundled up with their little red noses smiling regardless...coming home to a cozy home that has been decorated by the best sister I could ever have...there's even a certain crisp in the air at night that makes this feel like Christmas. Sure its Jack Frost at his best, but without it we wouldn't enjoy the warmth from the lattes, the fireplace, or that special someones coat or even their arms around you..Its that special thing about Christmas that brings us all a little closer..those simple things are what makes this holiday the best one of all. Share the joy from others, but more importantly, spread it too.

Happy Holidays from LiLi.

Happy

2010-12-08T16:07:00.000-08:00

Life is good. I cant help but to be grateful. And when one is grateful, and things seem to be so in balance and positive it cant help but to show on their work. I think that's why I love this photo. I must of been thinking of something that really warmed my heart...

Photographer Derek Chase from www.ThePhotoChase.com

Theres something about this photo I like and dont like...

2010-12-07T08:23:00.001-08:00

My New Trend: VIDEO BLOGS! "Hello Everyone!" :)

2010-12-03T18:56:00.000-08:00

Feature Film

2010-11-19T04:59:00.001-08:00

Hello fellow bloggers and blog readers! Thank you once again for stopping by and allowing me to have the humble pleasure of attempting to entertain you with my journeys :p

The latest with me:

I currently have the pleasure of being apart of an indie feature which is basically being shot at a very convenient distance for me (which is a first!) I am so use to driving far distances to my gigs, so it's a treat when the location is in your same zip code (well, almost!)

The film is called Senior Cut Day, and it's about high school students who cut school and party out in the woods. During that night, and the following morning they encounter a series of scary unfortunate events with homeless scavengers who at one point were citizens of society that now live animal like in the woods. Good enough description for you? Good, go see it when it comes out. Thank me later.

I would like to tell you that I play the lead, or supporting but no..I don't. But that's O.K! In no way am I bitter because, well for one- you have to start somewhere. Just because your resume has a lot of great credits on it and your agency represented, does not mean you are entitled to a lead, supporting, or principal role! And of course you gotta have the look. The cast is great and everyone is who they should be.

Ok ok, so my role, Im stalling, I know..I play two roles, count it! TWO roles in this film (thank you very much!) First one, I was more interested in rather than the second one but I like both because it shows a range of what I can do talent wise, and look wise. I play a scavenger homeless women out in the woods, and have some great camera time. The pretty girl you see in these photos on this blog, yeah, shes not in this role. Shes gone and turned into a pale skinned, unconditioned ratty haired, extremely fashion uncoordinated, chapped lipped, stinky looking cavewomanlikething who hasn't moisturized or slept in over ten years.

And I love it!

Its so non stereotypical. When I say that, I mean that its so easy for someone to look at me and cast me as the "honey" in the scene. Which is fine, too. Im very lady like and in touch with my feminine side and I love it! But Im also more rough around the edges than that as well. Think Jennifer Lopez meets Michelle Rodriguez. Maid in Manhatten meets Battle in Seattle. Yup, thats me. I always thought that I wasn't good at descriptions, especially of myself, so I will stop here.

The second role, I play is, yeah you guessed it, a honey (whomp whomp whomp, right) But no really, its cool because like I said, its about the contrast here. Im playing two roles that are on complete opposite sides of the grid here. I play "Gotdamn that bitch is ugly and scary!", to "GOTDAMN!!! that woman is HOTT!" in the same movie and you wouldn't even know it was me if I hadn't already told you. That's how different this will look. And that's the difference I want people to see when they see me as an actress. That I have the what it takes to step outside the box to play a non stereotypical role, and deliver just as much as I would in a role I'm visually "suited" for.

Anyway, I have to head out now so here's a photo, just one for your viewing pleasure. Well, I'm not sure how much "pleasure" you will get out of this photo because well, if you ask me this shits creepy! Excuse my language, but it is! And guess what? That is the aesthetic I was specifically going for. Ya smell me? (pun intended)

Thanks guys, Un besote para los todos xoxo!

Cheers

Fight Sequence:

2010-11-08T15:57:00.000-08:00

"oh no she didn't?!!!"

The many looks of Marili

2010-10-27T10:12:00.000-07:00

Yeungling Beer Commercial on ABC2 News

2010-09-10T06:01:00.001-07:00

Marili Mejias in Yeungling Beer Commercial set to air immediately all over the eastern seaboard for the next year!

New Acting Scene

2010-08-05T08:30:00.000-07:00

Scene final from Robert Christie's Actors Workshop

Synopsis: Marili plays Michelle-a desperate woman engaged in a conversation with a professional bank robber who is also a master of disguise. While conversing, the two get a sense of the others take on robbing the bank at which Michelle currently works at, to later unveiling Michelle's "secret occupation."

Enjoy!

Do you Tweet?

2010-07-19T19:31:00.000-07:00

I find that twitter serves as an outlet for my stream of consciousness. Most people use it to connect with others but I like to use it to convey messages that are on my mind at any given moment. Going through life can be hard, but it can be beautiful as well. So I like to capture some of those beautiful moments and/or thoughts and immortalize them by tweeting. Picture taking too, of course would be another way ;) Twitter is sort of like my virtual diary, where at one sentence at a time I can release myself by transferring thoughts into words and let my followers (or whoever is interested) immediately know some of those thoughts and feelings that go through me or situations that I go through. I guess just like this blog, Twitter is another little way of speaking to the world about the one thing I know best about---my life.

Should you be interested
Follow Me Here

"Its not about how many people that follow you, but about who it is that you follow." -Charles Cotayo, Movie Critic, Filmmaker and someone who I admire and would love to meet.

New Photos

2010-05-26T21:50:00.000-07:00

A thought..

2010-05-17T19:35:00.000-07:00

My favorite quote right now is by the legendary James Brown. I simply have the need to share it for no reason other than just that.

"Its a man's world. But it would be nothing without a woman or a girl."

This quote resonates in me, particularly when I heard CHRISTINA AGUILERA sing it at the Grammy's a few years ago, which of course when she sings anything everyone stops to listen. But the quote stands true and I think its safe to say that we all agree. The male gender does run the world in my opinion- they make up most of our politicians, CEO's of fortune 500 companies, they run our garages to fix our cars and so on and so forth...they're even taking over our salons and are heavy hitters in the fashion industry which are occupations thought to be feminine and assumed as for women only..Regardless, since the beginning of time men have been assumed to have the position of the leader and controller of well, just about everything. Don't get me wrong, I am in no way betraying my gender by not giving us credit. We have definitely come a very long way from having no voting rights and being the "Muted Group" to no longer depending on a man and fending for ourselves-perfectly. But there's a second part to James' quote that brings another perspective. That "his" world, this world would be nothing without a woman or a girl. Its a formal logical argument, a syllogism of existence that one cannot be without the other. The man may be the body but the woman IS the heart. And without the heart you have no life, the man has no breath and therefore cannot be..

just a thought,

Cheers

Marili's principal role in America's Most Wanted

2010-05-16T05:42:00.000-07:00

Marili is in the first ten minutes and plays the role of Gabriella. Episode aired May 15, 2010.

Koons Auto Commercials

2010-05-05T07:00:00.000-07:00

Check out the two Koons Auto Park Commercials Marili did for Nissan and Ford!

Koons Ford- Marili is in the front with party blower

Koons Nissan-Marili is a shopper wearing a grey shirt

Mini Portfolio

2010-04-27T19:11:00.000-07:00

*****concept only*****

Performed at the Shamrock Festival in DC

2010-03-12T20:47:00.000-08:00

I performed with Playboy Model DJ KayJay at the Shamrock festival in DC. The crowd was so pumped they started crown surfing! No pictures of that, but below are pictures and video footage of the other dancers and I on stage. Enjoy!

Here is a close-up of me dancing-freestyle :)

Cheers!

I appreciate your style

2010-02-24T08:10:00.001-08:00

Rita Moreno-La Reina de Actrices de Latina

Michelle Rodriguez-Actress, Writer, Director, breaking barriers as an actress in Hollywood.

Jennifer Lopez- Actress, Performer, Entertainment Mogul, Entrepreneur

Roselyn Sanchez- Actress, Dancer, Singer, Activist

Dania Ramirez- Actress, CoverGirl spokesmodel for clean drinking water in the Dominican Republic.

Rosario Dawson- Actress, Director, Activist.

Thank you for your inspiration.

What keeps me going..

2010-02-17T19:33:00.000-08:00

These four pictures resemble four things that keep me going in life and that I rely on to get me over those mountains and rough terrain. My Savior and King, Simplicity, The kindness of others, and Strength.

Baltimore's 2010 Vagina Monologues

2010-02-03T17:27:00.000-08:00

I have a unique opportunity to reach the community and spread the messages of feminism and the effects of violence against women and girls all over. I am pleased and honored to say that I am apart of the cast of The Vagina Monologues to help support and perpetuate VDAY; a campaign that is driven to raise awareness and funds for anti-violence against women and girls, including rape, battery, incest, female genital mutilation (FGM) and sexual slavery.

This opportunity is special to me because I know quite a few women who have suffered from physical or sexual abuse and were silenced. I wanted to stand up for something worth while, is empowering and has a potent meaning. A meaning that will indent its mark in ones mind if not heart. Awareness. It's what we can do to help make change happen.

Actors Workshop Scene

2009-11-11T20:42:00.000-08:00

Marili Mejias performs as a young woman struggling to find answers from her mother about a ghost she encounters, who looks just like her and haunts her.

Indie #2! "The Last Kung Fu Monk"

2009-10-27T07:02:00.000-07:00

Recently, I just wrapped on a movie in New Jersey called "The Last Kung Fu Monk." Its a film by Shaolin Film Productions who intend to make movies that showcase the artistry of the practitioners of kungfu. The director of the film, as well as all the films from Shaolin Film Productions, is LiPeng Zhang who is a former Shaolin Monk, trained for over 20 years in the martial art of kungfu at an actual Shaolin Temple in China (example shown at right). In one of the two scenes I was in, I played a cop who along with others were working out in a gym. In this scene the director, who also is the main actor/character, finishes a fight scene with an ignorant American, and then proceeds to teach the rest of us kung fu. It was pretty intense how insync we all were and this being freestyled and off the top of LiPengs head.

The other scene I was in was a party scene where most of my acting consisted of just mingling. Here are two photos.

In this next photo of me and fellow actress and friend Carleen Troy, director LiPeng Zhang is in the back ground setting up.

Part of this movie, "The Last Kung Fu Monk" was shot in China, the rest in the states. For more info on this movie and other movies from this production you can visit the website http://www.shaolinfilmcentral.com/

Cheers.

Salsa Solo at Conexciones Hispanic Ceremony

2009-10-18T19:26:00.001-07:00

I had the honor of performing a salsa solo/freestyle in the "Cafe Cultura y Mucho Azucar" show for the Conexciones Partnerships Signing with Howard County School Board on friday Oct. 16, 2009. I had a great time, we had a wonderful audience, that gave a great response! Check it out!

Demo reel

2009-09-07T19:18:00.000-07:00

Tentative, of course.

My attendance at NYC's Sex and the City 2 Open Casting Call

2009-08-07T19:33:00.000-07:00

It was a bitter sweet experience. Ill start with the bitter. The call time for non union was at 1:30 pm. My bus arrived in NYC at 11:40. My girlfriend and I, thinking we had plenty of time before the casting call started, took in the sites of NYC. As we made our way to 18th and 6th ave, we realized as we became closer and closer to where the casting call was being held, that though we were early (around 12:15ish) we were actually late by the looks of the HUGE ass line that was out front! When I say huge, I mean long. I'm talking a whole block, wrapped behind the entire block building long! It was crazy and here my girlfriend Vanessa, and I are thinking hell we've got plenty of time!....Nope.

Moreover we got in line and waited for about 30-35 minutes- the line went pretty quick. What made the wait interesting were the ladies and gentlemen I saw. Everyone looked so unique and different, interesting and hopeful..just like us. All of us hopefuls going out for a BACKGROUND audition in hopes to somehow making it big, or having this be a stepping stone towards it. I know I did. What actor in that line wouldn't? Anyways, to make a long story short, we finally made it inside the building where we stood in yet another line. This one was more like a heard of people bunched together forced to trickle out this corner door one by one to be to be put in, yes you guessed it, another line. But this one was a lot shorter which led up to our picture being taken. We gave them our head shots and resumes and left. Now, on top of all the waiting after waiting, and then waiting some more in which somewhere along waiting my makeup and cuteness was starting to wear off, what put the icing on the this whole experience is that the lady who took my picture for one, caught me off guard when she snapped the shot, and two, she was cross eyed!!! WTF!! Horrible situation here and only she along with the CD's know what the hell that picture looks like because I sure as heck don't. ****SIGHS****

So whats the sweet part? Simply being there. Experiencing my very first audition/casting call in NYC for a MAJOR MOTION PICTURE for a movie I happen to LOVE, and also feeling like I can do this. And you know what, I still feel like I can do this. I feel that with my whole human being I was meant to be an actor, and not just any actor but the best damn actor I can be. Sure its going to take some time, but that's another thing I love about it. The journey. As I mentioned in my first blog, an introduction of myself to you all, I stated that I love the notion of journey's because in a moment of reflection you can look back and see how you have grown and appreciate the person you've become and so long been working towards being. I love my chosen career to be an actor, though most look down upon it because they just look at the ratio to ever "making it" in the biz. But what defines "making it" in the biz to them doesn't matter. What does is what you think. I'm a firm believer in thinking that if you feel in your heart that you deserve something and you work hard to get it, it will be yours. So for everyone out there who has a dream, GO GET IT.

Here's me out getting mine..

CHEERS

*photo found on press site http://www.graziadaily.co.uk/fashion/archive/2009/08/05/street-style--sex-and-the-city-sequel-open-auditions.htm

Steelo Cosmetics Print

2009-08-03T12:13:00.000-07:00

Model not included ;0)

Maryland Lottery, SmartVisionTv

2009-07-31T19:28:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to post something up that i did back in 2007 :). I was a featured dancer in a Maryland Lottery commercial that was played during football games in the Ravens Stadium. Its pretty short, but still substantive. Hope you enjoy :)

Cheers

Who is recording artist Lydia?

2009-07-29T16:32:00.000-07:00

Check out our progress for Lydia's first single performance!

www.Myspace.com/Lydia718

Cheers!

A beautiful gesture.

2009-07-27T12:46:00.000-07:00

Sometimes its a beautiful thing to know many people. I say this because you never know the many ways in which a person can help you in life. From the smallest favor to the biggest gesture, its important to be grateful and humbled. I have a friend who was kind enough to take some photos of me and created an video portfolio of the photos, which was something completely unexpected to be done not only once, but twice! Its true what they say about friends, their Gods angels on earth.

In Character

2009-07-17T20:11:00.000-07:00

During my last shoot, I decided to take it to another level. To be honest, I am tired of the pretty pictures, I have no real need for them. Plus, with me being an actor I felt it necessary to try and see myself in a more "realistic" light. Realistic meaning that not everything is pretty, not everything is grand and I wanted..no, I needed to see myself perform in a way that represented a part of life that wasn't mine. Only a true actor can BE (not act) like something other than themselves, which if you think about it is a pretty hard task to accomplish.

Well, here is my attempt to BEING something that I am not. A homeless women. As my worst critic I see things that could be improved upon as far as bringing out the "realness" of the shot, but hey it was a first time attempt. Tell me what you think?

More characters to come.

I believe LOVE changes things

2009-06-28T06:54:00.000-07:00

In reference to MJ, I just wanted to say...

Lets love each other, seriously.

"At the end of the day its all about eating, shitting, sleeping and loving"-Michelle Rodriguez

Koons Ford Commercial

2009-06-28T06:46:00.000-07:00

I wanted to post the Koons Ford of Falls Church VA commercial I did recently. I played a shopper and in just about every scene. Can you find me? Heres a hint: Grey shirt ;)

Cheers

A heart heard around the world, stopped..

2009-06-28T04:51:00.000-07:00

It hurts, to hear about our fallen icon. Micheal wanted to heal the world, and make it a better place but what he didnt realize is that within in the world of music he already did. Now only if we could follow in his footsteps and do our parts in healing the world in which we live, we might be able to endure the love, strength and innocence that resonated in Micheal's heart. It doesnt matter what generation you are from, we all have been touched deeply by micheal. As a personal note, he is the reason why i started to dance..He's the reason why we all started to dance...

Obsessed..with the beauty of music

2009-06-24T16:49:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share something that's very close to my heart- music. For a long while now, I have been listening to many different genres of music some of which derived from my Latino culture, some from African culture, worlds beats, jazz, neo, anything with a classical or Spanish guitar...These beautiful acoustics have been the latest loves of my life mainly due to my long time interests of traveling and learning to play the guitar. You see, my dad plays, and he plays by ear. He is probably the best guitar player I have ever heard in my life and I regret the frustration and anger I would feel waking up [early] every morning because, like clockwork, at the crack of dawn my father would be playing Spanish rhythms and tunes loud enough to wake up the whole neighborhood. Needless to say that without knowing it, this would be the foundation to my next precious adventure/endeavor of playing myself. My current obsession is with flamenco/Latin fusion jazz/Spanish guitar, and two of my favorite artists are Robert Micheals and Marc Antoine. All I can say is that there is nothing better than curling up at night with a glass of Moscato and with Marc and Robert. Take a listen below, indulge and luxuriate.

Aranjuez - Robert Michaels

Latin Quarter - Marc Antoine

VJ for Baltimore's Online Video Magazine

2009-06-22T16:25:00.000-07:00

Here's a piece of work i did for Baltimore's Online Video Magazine. A virtual magazine that highlights nightlife, entertainment and fun things happening in Charm City. Enjoy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vb03X2QmEko

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jSybQnthrBg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eyrtsI6G-7w

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PRUrOFuW-c

Cheers

Choreographing "She's not half of me"- Recording artist Lydia

2009-06-20T17:07:00.000-07:00

Did I mention that I dance? :) Here's me at rehearsal with recording artist Lydia. Choreographing her first single. Shout out to Lydia, visit her myspace at www.myspace.com/Lydia718

Rehearsal 1

Rehearsal 2

rehearsal 4 and 3

Filming "Hard to Be Me" pilot

2009-06-07T06:14:00.000-07:00

On June 6, 2009 I did some work for a pilot being shot at American University in DC. I never been to American University before other than when I went to the audition, so I was looking forward to coming back. I played a college student. I did a some walking around out side and talking up against the wall in a hallway scene just looking natural, normal, pantomiming.. It was a cool experience because I spoke to some really nice people, both crew and actors. I got some pretty good camera time, which was nice :) . The award winning director Erik Cieslewicz was extremely nice and made the effort to come and talk to me and some of the other actors on set and thanked us for coming in. Needless to say, I had a good shoot on set. Click
on the photos to enlarge.

Photo to the upper right of Marili Mejias and director/producer Erik Cieslewicz- photos by Nadine

Check out the photos taken from the "Art School Hallway, Post Class Discussion Scene", I played a college student. Which, I really am.

In between takes, chatting with David one of the crew guys, he's a cool dude.

The weather was great, acting was great, a beautiful day in Washington DC.

Cheers

Indie Film "Seeking Closure"

2009-05-19T19:25:00.001-07:00

So, aside from all the other gigs I have done, this one by far has been the most exciting experience of them all! I was lucky enough to have the pleasure of working on an independent feature film called "Seeking Closure" which has also been adapted into a novel by Gregory Banks from the Wheelman Press. The movie is directed by a good friend of mine named Kevin Tan of Inner Glow Pictures (who also stars and directs the movie!) He's a very talented individual who was nice enough to ask me to play the part as a drug addict. Which of course I had to think about.. (ha! yeah right, I jumped on that ish!). Though my part was a small speaking role, I am very grateful for it because it gave me valuable onset experience, on camera experience, and the actual experience of being directed by a director. It's all I could ever ask for and I must say that its the best damn three lines in the whole movie!! Playing :)... Anyway, here are some photos from the movie, compliments of Pete Murphy from Ezraphotography. For more information on the movie visit the movie's official website at www.seekingclosurethemovie.com

Cheers

A video model?

2009-05-19T18:14:00.000-07:00

NO, I am not a video model. Again, I have come to notice that along the way to becoming an actress, there will be opportunities that will come about for exposure that are not particularly "acting gigs". Some are paid some are not. In this case for this particular blog, I was a featured model in Universal Record's recording artist, DJ Class "Im the Ish" video that was filmed here in Baltimore. Featured being that I had camera time, by myself, and you will see me in the video (so i was told, again nothing's guaranteed when in the editing room) and yes, this gig was pro bono. BUT! thats ok. See, every opportunity big or small is a good opportunity to network. You never know who is around that could possibly help you along your journey. The video was directed by Chris Robinson. I also got the chance to talk a little bit with DJ Class about the industry and I must say he is a very, very nice man. Take a look and the photo (click to enlarge) or listen below. Shout out to Baltimore Club music that's on the rise. Let it be known that Bmore is where club music started..Tell your friends :)

im the ish

Btw, I am sitting on the couch arm rest not DJ Class's lap. NO groupie action went on here at all.

Cheers

Industrial

2009-05-19T14:17:00.000-07:00

I had a pretty neat experience today, a new step in my acting career. My very first industrial booking! Not really too much to write about that would sound exciting, I was just happy to be there and very grateful to be working. The work was pretty easy, not hard at all. The lines were fed to me, no memorization needed, but a lot of directing which was good. They say that an actor must know how to take good direction from the director in order to produce a great product. From the looks of it it seemed like we were filming about ethics in the workplace (things to do and things not to do while at work) and in my scenario the focus was on bad ethics. Story line: a girl at work was using work materials to help promote her personal business she had on the side. Materials she used were the printer, paper, phone, etc..Pilfering in a sense. The shoot was for a training video for a company called Vestra but put together by SAI Global, a company that provides compliance and ethics solutions for companies across the world. Food was provided, breakfast and lunch, and I also met some nice actors from Philly, New York, and Jersey. Good times. Wardrode was business professional/casual. Here's a photo of the outfit that I was filmed in.

Cheers

Booked for Steelo Cosmetics

2009-05-18T18:56:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!! Just wanted to update you on whats new! There has been sooooooooooo much going on in my career, but first i wanted to share with you another photo shoot i did! YAY! I was contacted by the CEO of another cosmetics line called Steelo Cosmetics to model for their fierce, flawless, fabulous campaign and the shots came out pretty good! I posted one of the final copies for your viewing pleasure. Hope you like! Enjoy!

Booked for Illusions Cosmetics

2009-05-18T18:55:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! So along the way of this acting journey one cant resist the modeling opportunities that happen to come up. Though my main focus is becoming an actress and not a model, I'm flattered by the fact that there are professionals out there who think I can pull off the whole modeling thing :). Not to mention I am always down for a free shoot with a well known fashion photographer! Who wouldn't right?? I recently I had the honor of working with a very talented and well known makeup artist who is also the co-owner of a cosmetics line. Denise Tunnell from ATL and Baltimore contacted me to model for her cosmetics line called Illusions Cosmetics, check out their website at www.illusionsbeauty.com. Denise has been transforming faces in the film, video, television, and print mediums for over 10 years. Some of her clients include Boris Kojoe, Vivica Fox, TI, Jermain DuPree, Shamar Moore, and many many more. Her clientell list and experience is impressive and endless. Check out the photos!

The theme of the overall shoot was 1950's glam and we shot with Roy Cox at his studio in Baltimore. (www.4-optic.com) For those who don't know Roy Cox, well just visit his site I guarantee you will stay a while

I must say that I am very please with the way the photos came out. Modeling, I've noticed really is not that hard but it is a bit challenging at times. The way I look at it is that modeling in its own right is a form of acting. There's a camera, a set, a concept, and emotion involved. A story is being told whether its about the good, the bad, the beautiful, or the ugly. The model must go to that special place just as the actor does to deliver the aesthetic. Enjoy!

Cheers

Yes, I'd like to be booked for a job please, thanks.

2009-05-18T18:51:00.000-07:00

Its frustrating, being an actor. But God its so fun. The people that you meet along the way, the classes that you take to hone your talent, the feeling you feel when you get that part! Your one step closer to being that person you want to be.

For me, I don't know what that feeling is..that last one about getting "that part". Sure, I've been booked for jobs in the past, but I haven't quit reached that one job that makes it all official. That one booking that's gonna put a major stamp on my resume and create a buzz, boost my ego and get the ball rolling... I know talent that have been booked for Nike ads, soap operas, Target, feature films that are release in actual movie theaters and wonder what its like to feel what they feel? That sense of accomplishment within their ultimate passion..I know the feeling, but to actually feel it, I have yet... I have talent, and I know this. I guess in the end the bottom line is that this is a learning process for me. A progress. A time to observe, learn and apply.

.. a time to embrace patience...I'm O.K with that..

Li*

Allow me to introduce myself..

2009-05-18T18:40:00.000-07:00

My name is Marili and I'm a definite lover of life and all its possibilities. I have a strong desire and drive to become an actress, not just any kind of actress, but the best I can be. I have always loved journeys because in a moment of reflection you can look back and view your growth and appreciate the person you have become-should you choose to grow. They say to live in the moment and to live your life to the fullest. A very dear friend of mine once told me that the day isn't complete until you do something you want to do. I believe that if we were to hold onto our dreams and reach for our goals and work towards them everyday, our journey can be a fulfilling one. I also believe that in order to be a true artist one must be able to think, dream and imagine without boundaries.The only thing working against me is gravity. Grow, expand, appreciate, believe, reach- these are things we should allow ourselves to do in order to reach our full potential.These are things we also experience thru our own personal journeys.

This blog is a record of my journey as an actress, a server of self expression, and possibly my small way of inspiring someone out there in the world. I thank you for stopping by, I hope you stay a while or visit back from time to time. I assure you this weblog will be a two thumbs up, just stay tuned.

Ya girl-