We had the good fortune of connecting with Dillan Ostrom and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dillan, the decisions we make often shape our story in profound ways. What was one of the most difficult decisions you’ve had to make?
Leaving my family in North Dakota to pursue acting and writing. I was fortunate enough to be raised by two outstanding parents. Also, was blessed with a brother and a sister. It’s difficult missing important moments with them such as birthdays, life events, children, etc. But, returning home becomes that much sweeter.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Sure thing! I’m an actor and writer originally from a small town in North Dakota pursuing a life in the arts. I’ve made some substantial progress over the years. However, it’s never quite finished. The industry can be challenging in terms of effort versus reward. But, I wouldn’t have it any other way. I have no problem working hard, continuing to learn, and developing as an artist. 

I moved out to Los Angeles about 8 years ago. Didn’t really know anybody or how the industry worked. Took any job that would help me survive. I’ve been a food runner, production assistant, assistant editor, fitness instructor, and personal trainer. Throughout the years I was able to meet some friends and professional colleagues who helped me form an idea of the entertainment business.
From there I was able to get headshots and start building a reel. These tools would eventually help me land my first agent. That agent was pivotal in my reason for sticking around. It was the first validation for leaving my family and pursuing this life. We booked numerous projects together and started enhancing my resume. I’ve since moved on. However, they will hold a special place in my heart.

With a reel, resume, and headshots, we now had the opportunity for auditions and new representation. With any downtime, I was creating and writing my own projects. The most recent one came to life over the last couple of years. We were able to film a few scenes from the pilot script.

The project is entitled The Block. It is a dark comedy that follows a group of security ambassadors that discover a facility that uses human carcasses to manufacture beef jerky. We follow these unsung heroes as they attempt to rid the city of it’s corruption. There are four web-series episodes on Vimeo for your viewing pleasure. Boy was it fun to shoot and collaborate with like-minded individuals. Couldn’t have been possible without the help of those on camera, behind the camera, and through Kickstarter. Thank you one-thousand times over!

Sidenote: The Block has been an official selection of the Los Angeles Comedy Film Festival, London-Worldwide Comedy Short Film Festival, and Stareable Fest L.A.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
My BFF did visit and I’m not sure we did any of these. Fail on my part. Just to name a few: Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead, Catch LA, E.P. & L.P., All Season Brewing, HomeState, Rumble Boxing, Heimat, Tu Madre, and Desert 5 Spot. Lake Arrowhead is a nice spot for some nature. Catch LA and E.P. & L.P. are a solid vibe for dinner and drinks. HomeState is hands down my favorite taco place. Rumble Boxing or Heimat for a workout. All Season Brewing for a beer and fresh air. Desert 5 Spot for some country music.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My family has really championed me over the years. Unbiased or not they have encouraged me in my endeavors, sacrificed time, and consistently supported the process. Two of the sweetest parents you could ask for. Thank you dad and mom. Two of the nicest siblings. Thank you brother and sister. I wouldn’t be here without y’all so thank you!

Instagram: dillanostrom

Other: https://vimeo.com/dillanostrom

Image Credits
Kushal Holla

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