"When I first met Manny I was working as a stand-in on a set in Berlin. Of course at that time I did not know how much Manny was in the film business and probably that was better so. We simply started chatting and Manny told me that I could work as an actor, something I wouldn't even have dreamed of in my wildest dreams. But what if someone who has worked with superstars like Angelina Jolie, Johnny Depp, Hillary Swank sees your potential? Wouldn't you then at least take his advice into consideration?
At that point I could not imagine myself being an actor, not at all, because I couldn't see the true potential beneath the layers. Probably Manny's greatest talent is to look at a person and see that very potential at the same time naming the problems that avert exploiting it fully. Manny taught me to listen, not to interrupt, to stay open. He advised me to take acting classes and change my hair. Without any doubt I followed all his advices.
But more important –and that is why meeting him changed my life entirely– he helped me to find myself. I started to face the problems I kicked down the road all the years, a painful process that will change you, liberate you, inevitably, irreversibly. I learned to accepted myself and defend my values. Now that I am honest to myself and constantly working on my fears, for the first time I feel that I truly can be an actor.
I can say that I am a different person now. Meeting Manny has changed my life in the most positive sense! He took me from my little world and vaulted me into new spheres. I am glad having found not only a unique mentor, but also a great friend! And there is so much more laying ahead!"
-Oleg David Isakov, Actor