Chicago’s Latest Film Office Commissioner, Natasha Parker Olguin, Aims to Retain Local Talent and Leverage the Skilled Workforce

CHICAGO (WLS) — Chicago has served as a popular backdrop for box-office movies throughout the years.

We can thank our iconic skyline, stunning lakefront views, historic neighborhoods and of course, our unique Lower Wacker Drive.

But it takes more than just beauty to lure a film scout. The Chicago Film Office plays a big part in that, and the office has a new leader.

In June, Natasha Parker Olguin, who hails from Chicago, was appointed as the deputy commissioner for the city office that’s part of the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.

Parker Olguin carries a strong portfolio, having established Noisemakers Entertainment as its founder and CEO. She has also taken on roles as a producer, location manager, writer, and director, contributing to projects like Heist 88, The Chi, and Man of Steel.

Her aims include promoting Chicago’s rich landscapes and neighborhoods while leveraging the city’s skilled workforce to its full potential.

“Our infrastructure is robust,” Parker Olguin remarked. “We have exceptional talent both in front of and behind the camera, and we’re fully capable of taking a project from initial script to final screen. There is nothing we can’t accomplish here.”

And her goal is to keep that talent in Chicago through inclusivity.

“Every part of Chicago is brimming with talent,” she added. “By linking our experienced filmmakers and crew members with young talent, we can create a path for the next generation of filmmakers.”

And Hollywood can start and stay right here in the Second City.

“Chicago is my birthplace and I have developed a career spanning over 20 years right here,” Parker Olguin stated. “You don’t have to leave your hometown in order to forge a successful career.”

Parker Olguin suggests contacting local casting companies to start off as an extra. “They’re always looking for fresh faces,” she said.

Chicago talent agent pens book on strategies to break into acting

Chicago talent agent Michelle Hayes plays a big role in helping aspiring actors land their next big role.

Among her successes are Corey Hendrix of The Bear and Ahmad Ferguson of The Chi.

And now she’s out with her debut book: “Agent’s Playbook: Step-by-Step Strategies to Break Into Acting and Master the Industry.”

Hayes said the first step is deciding what kind of actor you want to be. She said people looking to for extra work just need to google “extra work” and find a job right away.

She stressed that speaking roles take training.

“You have to train and you have to take acting classes,” said Hayes. “A lot of people think it’s really easy, and it’s not. The Denzel Washingtons… they train.”

Hayes also encouraged aspiring actors to get their start in smaller acting markets like Chicago.

“We have The Chi here, we have Power here, we have Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D.,” she said. “If you can build your resume with all these credits, that’s when you go to Hollywood because you’re competing with big name-celebrities.”

But as Hayes explains in her book- don’t get scammed.

“Never, ever pay to be with an agent. That’s not a legit agent. We get paid on commission only,” said Hayes. “So when they say hey give me $2,000 and I’ll get you in front of a casting director or talent agent – run.” Hayes said no agency will ever ask for money.