Meet Carlos J Castillo | Actor and Filmmaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Carlos J Castillo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Carlos J, do you have some perspective or insight you can share with us on the question of when someone should give up versus when they should keep going?
It’s a feeling deep inside you that governs how you live your life and what you spend your time doing. For those with a purpose there aren’t enough hours in a day and the morning sun is a like a starter gun going off. Always so much to do in so little time. I always look forward to Mondays. The start of the work week means business is certainly being conducted in and around my industry. I find myself encouraged by the opportunities looming. When it’s a quite start business wise there is time I can attribute to my craft, skills, or health.

Since I figured things out for myself pretty young it was a little easier to just keep going. I’ve come across many individuals that struggle with finding a purpose or figuring out “what to do.” with themselves. I always recommend just picking something and seeing it through until the gravity of as deeper purpose arises. I believe the saying goes “when inspiration arrives, it finds you working.” And should no greater purpose arise over time, you’ll have devoted yourself to something long enough to understand the value of dedication.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve appeared in a few studio projects as an actor thus far but mostly independent and theater work. As a storyteller I’ve written several plays for black box theater productions and directed a few short films. These are small wins but make no mistake it’s taken some serious dedications.

The short answer is no, it isn’t “easy” It’s been a long road of mistakes, mishaps, and hard truths. The entertainment industry is extremely competitive and offers zero guarantees. I set out with a desire to enlighten society with stories of morality and happenstance. In many ways, I have already achieved this goal. The projects I’ve been a part, the dedication others see in me. And these are only the first steps to elevated platforms where audiences get bigger and stories can be told with much more finesse.,

If my brand isn’t already clear, I’d define it as social commentary. My goal is to tell the tales of the life around us. Uncovering the gems, sorting through the dirt, and underlining lessons we miss along the way.

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?
First off I’d try to stay away from tourists traps. Of course, some cannot be avoided.

PLACES; Downtown LA, Hollywood, Long Beach, Seal Beach, Disneyland, Sunset from Chinatown to the PCH
FOOD; Jones, Cento, Bottega Louie, La Tavolata, Grandville, Bossa Nova, El Compadre, Sonoratown, Woodranch, Carthay Circle
BARS; Shoo Shoo Baby, The Short Stop, The Three Clubs, The Woods Weho, The Frolic Room, The Well, Chateau Marmont

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
This is great prep for an Oscar speech, haha.

I am completely indebted to my mom for making me strong minded and always encouraging me to chase my dreams. Culinary school and the great chefs that taught me the importance of discipline, etiquette, and professionalism. All my grade school teachers who insisted I continue writing. My first and longtime acting teacher whose love for the craft and business of acting is ever inspiring. And, last but not least, my wife…for loving me and being supportive and understanding to the struggle of an artist.

Website: https://cjcastillo.myportfolio.com

Instagram: @officialcjcastillo

Twitter: @cjaviercastillo

Image Credits
Main pic by David Muller