 Since State Tech Hawaii, community matters here. Aloha and bienvenue to Hispanic Hawaii and Rachel Concepcion. Today's guest is Manuel Baez. He retired from the military, from the army as a war officer, after 20 years of service. Now he's a professional actor who works in many films here in Hawaii. He is an inspiration and he's here to share with us his personal experience. He transitioned from the military to civilian and his future plans. Bienvenido, gracias por estar aquí con nosotros. Gracias, un placer estar aquí. Alright. First of all, I want to say thank you for your service. As we have already served in the same unit and actually deployed into Iraq, I can honestly say this is an honor to be here. I'm just so grateful for everything that you're doing for local actors. I think that it is important that we take the lead in wanting to do things that are positive and let people know that the military is not the end. That there's still more that we can do and we can promote just community. And in this case, acting. I say nothing. Alright. So let's talk about you being in the military. Here's some picture from when you first time came in until the time that you retired. Tell me about your military experience and how was that transition from the military to civilian? Well, to be quite honest, I went into the military with the intent of only doing three years as an infantryman and went to basic training and it was just too easy for me. That's good. Well, I can see why, right? You're in good shape. So definitely there was a foundation in the background, right? I got to thank my father for his strict upbringing, you know, being from the Dominican Republic. We tend to be a little bit more stringent in the way we're supposed to conduct ourselves. And it's just one of those things. So upon going into basic training, things were pretty simple. And as time went by, I was like, you know what, this is actually pretty easy. I think I can go ahead and re-enlist and so forth. Now, once I started going to Iraq, that's when things got a little real. So I went twice as an infantryman and earned the covered in combat infantry badge. And I figured, you know what, it's time for me to change over and do something greater, I suppose. But really, it was because I wanted to keep my mom calm. You know, I love my mother to death. And we come from a very strong and honor spiritual believing background. And we believe that with faith, everything is always possible and safety being one of those. Of course. But do you still miss the military? You know, when I look back at those days, there are some things I miss or some things. I'm not going to say that I miss it completely. I feel that at the point that I chose to retire, because I had a choice. I could have continued going or just stayed in. But I think God had called me that it was time for me to exit out. And you know what, it was awesome. After I became an officer, I went three more times to Iraq. Yeah, I remember we were together. And we were together in a couple of those. So, you know, I think it was definitely time to start a new endeavor. And I tell you that, that in itself, we try to plan things and control how we want to, and what we want to do when we exit out. And, you know, sometimes it doesn't work out that way. And upon retiring, you know, they had the sequestration. So for like eight months, I believe. I do remember that. Oh. So for like eight months, yes, it was kind of tough because I'm like, okay, I love living in Hawaii, but how am I going to make this? Very responsive, yeah. And again, you know, I had to humble myself and talk to God and ask Him, hey, so what do I do right now? And I believe that, you know, things really do happen for a reason. Because I was working out at the 24-hour fitness in Pearl City here. And some of the people that knew me from then, they were like, hey, so we see that you're getting ready to exit from the military and we need a presence like yours here. You know, a leadership that could, I suppose, mentor other people and just bring out a different crowd or clientele, if you will. And when it ended up happening, I became a personal trainer within less than two years. I became a master trainer. So you see, even though it's a new career path, I'm still exhaling, still trying to do the best I can because that was the motto when you and I went in the military. Yeah, never, never ended. You're always progressing, you're always moving. You're progressing. You have to be the best you can be, right? True. Be all you can be. Be all you can be. Exactly. That was the motto. Be all you can be. So what is your advice to those who's getting ready to retire from the military? My advice is that don't stop believing. Don't stop believing. Whatever dreams you've had, anything that you felt at a younger age, even before you went into the military, don't forget those dreams because those dreams are still significant for what's to come. It's still a possibility. For me, my dreams, I wanted to be an action star. You know, I used to watch movies like Commando, you know, Rambo. I'm like, wow, you know, I can do that. Little that I know that as time went by, look what I did in the military. So, you know, you start thinking, well, maybe I was just going to do this for real. And not just the movies, but things took a different twist. Meeting good people in the gym, they actually, and in fact, I'll go ahead and give her credit. Her name is Minnie Kwan. She's no longer on Island, but thanks to her and actually asking me, how do you feel about doing stunts? That's how I started. So we went and did some stunts with a local stunt team, the Ninja Monkeys. All right, guys? The Ninja Monkeys. Yeah, I heard that maybe before. So we went over there and, you know, they like what I had to bring to the table and they indoctrinated me into the team. So eventually one day they were like, hey, you know, we are getting ready to film this movie. Would you like to be a part of it? And I'm like, sure, why not? That's my dream. Here's the start, right? I'm like, what do I got to lose, right? Who knows? I like to, another, you know what? Another advice, it's okay to take risks as long as it's not a risk where you're endangering yourself, but to take a risk for a career path. Who knows? I mean, to me, I felt like acting could be an hobby because I really loved what I was doing. There was a passion igniting there. So to be invited to be a part of a production, I'm like, whoa, I'm living my dream now. So the same day that we went to shoot, and I was just playing an extra, I was playing this bodyguard to a boss. You know, I'm just kind of sort of in the back, but it was still fun, you know, even though not so much, but still it was fun. Yeah, I remember those days of being an extra. A lot of work, but it's fun. It's still fun. Well, you can see we're showing right here about Hawaii file. I know you're telling me this story, but now that we have this picture right here about Hawaii file. Let's talk about Hawaii file and you experienced during the shooting and that reality did just hit you, you know, become an actor in such a big production. Tell me about it. Richard, let me tell you that was definitely like the climatic point in my career because never did I thought I would be on national TV, international at that. That's true. And now webbed, you know, now everybody gets to see this. And it was a surreal experience. I am so grateful for the the Ohana casting who took the opportunity to select me and be part of, you know, their production. And to be honest, I just went over there for an audition. I submitted some paperwork and see that's the other thing too. You got to be motivated to push the limits because when I heard that they were recruiting people extras, I was like, I really don't want to do extras. I kind of sort of just did this role in Popolo, by the way. Of course. So, you know, I play this starting role and I'm like, do I really want to do extra? But then I had to realize, you know what? I got a diverse of five regardless. So I saw the email and I said, you know what? I'm going to send them everything that I've done and hopefully that'll do something. So I sent them my real, sent them my resume and pictures, of course. And they called me in within like two days, went over there, spoke to the casting directors and they were like, yep, can you come in? So went over there, spoke to them, did my lines and about three days later I get the phone call and they were like, we're sorry to tell you, but you didn't get the role that you auditioned for. And I was like, oh, okay. However, there was no but. However. You would say, however. Yes. Something's coming. Something's coming. I'm like, oh, yes. However, we're going to give you the lead role of the villain. I was like. Wow. What was the feeling? What was the feeling at that time when, however, and then that came to you? I mean, of course, you know, my heart is pounding out of my chest because I'm like. You said yes? Oh, immediately? Of course. I said yes without even thinking about, hey, you know, you're going to have to make some adjustments to your schedule and all this. Of course. I was just like, yes. I want that right now. And they were like, okay, go then. We start tomorrow. I'm like, okay, no problem. I'll be there. Tell me about the main characters. When you first started to show up, you know, getting ready for the roles, you know, how they receive you? Well, you know, I think in this case, at least for Hawaii 5-0, you know, I play the role of this, you know, we got to play the role. We played the role, yeah. It's not hurting anybody, I believe, but I played the role of Hector Frontera, and he was this drug dealer, you know, creating a channel for, you know, between Central America and Hawaii. I mean, this guy is, he's like moving some big stuff, big money, and whoever gets in the way, they're going to get it. And pretty much when you watch this episode, and by the way, season 7, episode 3. Don't miss it. You know, don't miss it, right? But when you watch this episode, you understand what's happening. Although I didn't get to have a speaking role, when I spoke to the directors, what they were saying was, you know what? It's actually more difficult to divert information when you're not speaking, but we believe that with your mannerisms, your body language, you'll be able to process very well what we need you to do. So I was like, okay, he's Hector Frontera, a drug dealer, you know what? I think I've seen many, you know, I've seen some star faces. We've seen a lot of those movies already. I've seen plenty of movies like that, so I'm like, I think I can play that. Okay. And I'll put a little twist of some Spanish, you know, some salsa in there, you know? So it worked out, it worked out. That's good for you. That's a great inspiration. Yes. But I want to ask you, how do you prepare for the role? So in preparation for the role, I like to, depending on what it is, of course, I mean, if I'm going to have some speaking parts and naturally, I like to rehearse those and go over and over again. And one of the things that I learned to do was to write it out, write it out so that way it'll become more naturally fluid. The other thing is, I remember one of the things that, one of the main actors for Popolo had told me, and that's Quante Love, he has said, you know, Manny, for you, all you have to do is be you. And I believe that when you receive a niche and how can you promote or speak a word or perform an action, you have to be able to reach down and recognize that you can do this. And I think that for me, that's what did it. It was knowing the fact that by me being who I am and understanding the different parameters of communication, I could do the part. So I'm not going to say that it was simple, simple preparation, but I think just being aware of the roles that you're playing and just being diversified, you know, being able to, movies, watching movies, watching soap operas, commercials, all these things play a role in how you conduct yourself whenever you're trying to catch on to that character. That is true. You accomplished so much and that's why we have you here because you're an inspiration. But we are going to take a quick break and we're going to combine, continue talking story with Manuel Baez, a professional actor here in Hawaii. We'll be right back. Hello, everyone. I'm DeSoto Brown, the co-host of Human Humane Architecture, which is seen on Think Tech, Hawaii every other Tuesday at 4 p.m. And with the show's host, Martin Desbang, join us, architecture here in Hawaiian Islands and how it not only affects the way we live, but other aspects of our life, not only here in Hawaii, but internationally as well. So join us for Human Humane Architecture every other Tuesday at 4 p.m. on Think Tech, Hawaii. Welcome back to This is Fatty Hawaii and here with Manuel Baez, a professional actor. We're talking story about Hawaii file. Got that right. All right. Thank you so much for what you do. And I want to ask you, so you were telling me about how you memorized the role. Did you ever forget your lines when you performed it? Well, I mean, I think there is definitely a bitter reality in that. There's been some moments, you know, forget the lines and it's like, ah, line. And it's like you got to recap again, you know, but I think that my advice is remain calm. Okay. Because the moment you get too excited about that and it's like, oh, I can't believe I just forget. You know, don't panic. It's more of a line. And once you get the line, then recollect yourself and say it out loud. So I think staying calm is always important. You know, that's what we did in the military, you know, under stress. That's a great advice. Whatever happens, stay calm. Remember the whole tactical patience thing. It's like, oh, okay. So, yeah, I would say that that's one of the things that I apply in all and everything. So do you apply the same principle when you do stunts and tell me about what training you do as a stuntman? You know, Richard, I honestly, I think being an infantryman prepared me for all the stunts and then being able to actually perform it in live action as many times as a dead downrange. I think stunts is kind of a simple task. Well, I don't want to put it too simple. Well, a lot of people have to take classes to learn, right? You know, classes, and the thing is just go for it. That's the thing. The minute you hesitate in doing a particular action, if you don't understand, like, for instance, how to fall, that's a big one. How to roll. Big ones. I mean, you'd be surprised how many people don't know how to tumble. Oh, wow. So those are things that you want to make sure you understand because in any action film or even just drama film, you know, you might have to break a fall. So you might need to practice those things. You don't want to catch a fall with your hand, break a wrist, break an elbow and arm, and I believe the more you practice, the better you get at it. So just if you can find a place where you can learn stunts, definitely take advantage of learning as much as you can because it can be useful, helpful. And even, you know, just techniques on how to fight, what to do when you're on camera, how you're supposed to throw a punch. I mean, you can't throw... You can sell a punch, you know, but do you really want to throw a real punch, right? So, you know, there's certain things that you have to be aware of on how to perform in front of a camera. So, for me, I think that's huge. It's all natural. It's all natural, yes. I'll stay away from you then, right? Well, you can be my bodyguard, hopefully, right? Well, you know, if I have to, yes. I'm qualified, I believe. Let's talk about the marketing point of view, right? I said after Hawaii and Latino, how difficult to be able to find a job. You know, I think just like anything else in life and when it comes to jobs, it does have its challenges and sometimes it's just being at the right place in the right time and boom, it's like you connect, right? And you start your network. I think it's important that as... up-and-coming actors, we remain as humble as possible. And what I mean by that is, you know, we can't be demanding so much when we haven't even started crafting what we want to become one day. So I think we had to just make sure that no matter what set, no matter what production, you always keep yourself humble because there's always more to learn. And I think that that's one of the most important features that as an actor we need to have. We have to be able to comprehend what needs to be learned and how we need to behave when we start looking at the marketing, I guess, strategy, it can be challenging. I mean, I'm not going to lie to you. It can be very challenging. Because I've been acting out for almost four years. I've been on six productions and I think that's pretty good. Well, tell me more about those productions. I want to know. Keep it a secret. Tell me. I want to know those productions. So, you know, it's been nice and like I said, what I've learned about each one of those is the fact that being at the right place at the right time and being able to communicate and just being good people, it's almost like the golden rule, you know? Treat others as you would want to be treated. And I think that that's been a great help. I thank God that I learned that kind of early in my life. But let's go back to that question. I want you to tell me some of your production. Tell me some of those productions. So, yes. So, my first production, main one was Popolo, and that was a feature film, independent film, and that was with director Eder Natacha and Quante Love. And I will tell you, wow, such an honor to be part of that because every single person, every crew, every cast, we're all local. And it was surreal. It was surreal. I never thought I'd be in a feature film off the bat from playing a quick extra film, you know? And by the way, that extra film for that short was Battle of the Minions 3. Still in post-production. However, moved on from there. You see, it's a stepping stone. It's a process. It's definitely a process. It's not like you want to make a movie today and it's going to be out tomorrow. Exactly. It is a major process. So again, it comes back to that patience and it comes to that point of being a humble person and just go with the flow. You said earlier, sometimes you just got to go with the flow. So that's what ended up happening. So from Popolo, I went to another short film and web series. So one of them, the web series is Paradise Justice. That was actually pretty cool. I get to play a detective and I want to send much props to Sean McBride. Thank you. Thank you for making me part of your production. He's been quite amazing. He's another entrepreneur who's producing web series, other films, and he's up and coming as well. See, there's a lot of talent here in Hawaii. And it's like, oh! You just got to put it together. Yes, yes. You got to put it together and we just have to do our best to be a part of that. Because see, that's the other part of it. How can you be a collaborator within the film industry, especially locally? I mean, it's already a challenge in itself. We're so far away from Hollywood and there's so many aspiring directors, producers, actors, crews. We have to think about how can we collaborate together? How can we make that happen? Hollywood comes over here, uses what they can find, and it's like, all right, so... I'm still here. Yeah, then leave while we stay here. Don't leave me, you know I want to be part of this. But, so let's see. So it was Paradise Justice, then another short film, Ninja EX. That is a horror film with a little bit of action, martial arts, and that was actually pretty cool too. Oh yes. It's one that you was working as a pirate. So tell me about that. Don't leave the one out. I won, I won, I promise I won. So then, yes, I was a pirate and the name of this film, still in post-production, it's Foo Island and it's also by Sean. I tell you, man is busy. He is making it happen. I played the role of Santiago de la Marca. I actually came up with that name. What a name. Perfect for you. Yes, so Santiago de la Marca, you know, I thought about being this Spaniard pirate, you know, and in this island, we have different factions, different pirates from different locations and they're all fighting to find this treasure where it is the fountain of youth. But what keeps happening in this island is, every day they relive everything that happens in just a different way because what happened is, all these pirates came to this island and now they can't get out. I can't wait to see that movie. Oh, I tell you. Well, you're working one more production right now. So right now, without telling the secret about this production, just tell me just a little bit about that. Okay, okay, so yes, working again with Mr. Ero Natasha and Quante Love and this one is called Devata and I think this is going to be very epic. It's going to be a series of films, so there's going to be different parts and I think the cool thing about this is I play the role of a monk. I can see it. Well, you know, I guess, yeah. Well, that's being that, right? Yes. You'll be able to perpetrate anything and everything. That's right. So I'll be playing the role of a monk who has martial arts skill. I'm actually taking training right now for that to be fighting like a monk and I will tell you, the challenge there is act, I mean, to be a monk is you have to change a lot of your... Behaviors. Behaviors because it has to be a peaceful outpouring but at the same time it has to be a direct outpouring. Definitely your personality. Thank you. Yes, yes, yes. So that's, we should be starting some shooting here pretty soon. And just grateful to be part of another production. And then, you know, with the people who got me started into the whole industry, I just, I couldn't ask for more. It's truly a blessing. It's truly a blessing to be part of that. And then to portray such a character, I mean, I'm going to school right now getting my master's in Christian ministry. Not that I have a calling and becoming a pastor or anything. That's what I want to ask you. What is the future for you? So, you know, for me, I chose to go that route because after going through a whole military career and my goodness, five deployments, five times I rack, I'm like, okay, hold up a second. Not a praying. A lot of praying, right? So I'm like, yeah, I want to learn a little bit more about God and instead of just going to learn another skill set, you know, I want to learn about God who I feel is in control of our lives and setting us straight in what we need to do and how we need to follow and what our calling is and how we are to help one another. And, you know, so many times people ask me, well, what makes you a believer? You know, and why did you chose that route? Why did you go to school to be there? Are you going to be a pastor? And I'm like, you know what? It's not that I want to become a pastor. It's just that I want to learn about God so that I can better intelligently be able to talk about God and understand the biblical principles that many people, you know, have different opinions about it. And I think it's important that as we continue to learn, you know, with the whole theology side and understanding faith, we give the respect to the people to see that. It's not about me introducing my belief into your life. It's not about that. It's about the love that he actually has for us and how we're supposed to work with one another. You know, nobody would believe me if I was to tell them, but, you know, when they see me, they're like, wow, I knew there was something different about you. That is true. That's impressive. Well, we have about a minute left. Okay. I would like to know what did you find a thousand recommendation and advice to the viewers? Well, I want to tell you something. I think that the best thing you can do is just be humble, be willing to learn, be aggressive in your learning, but be patient. At the same time, and I think this is huge, believe in your dreams. Because if you don't believe in your dreams, you know, you'll be in a state of trance, trying to figure out where is it that you want to go in life and what is it that you want to be? What, you know, where do you fit in? Believe. You have to believe in something. That is true. Because there's no belief? What else is there? Well, I want to say thank you so much for sharing your personal experience, your recommendations. Yes. I want to say thank you so much for watching Hispanic Hawaii. And don't forget that you can re-watch this program at Think Tech Hawaii and many other programs. Gracias y hasta luego.