How I Became

This film chronicles the journey of a young, aspiring actor named EJ who grapples with self-doubt and the harsh realities of the entertainment industry. He navigates a series of auditions, encounters eccentric personalities, and faces personal setbacks that challenge his dreams. Through it all, EJ learns valuable lessons about resilience, authenticity, and the true meaning of success.

How I Became received mixed to positive reviews, with critics often praising its heartfelt performance by E.J. Bonilla and its relatable portrayal of artistic struggle. Some found the pacing uneven, but many appreciated its independent spirit and honest depiction of Hollywood's less glamorous side.

• Praised for E.J. Bonilla's authentic performance.

• Appreciated for its honest look at the struggles of aspiring actors.

• Some found the narrative pacing to be a bit slow at times.

Google audience: Audience reviews generally highlight the film's sincerity and the lead actor's compelling performance, with many users connecting with the protagonist's journey and the film's optimistic yet realistic tone. A few noted that while relatable, the story could have benefited from tighter editing.

Nominated for Best Feature Film at the 2018 Dances With Films festival.

E.J. Bonilla, who also wrote and directed the film, based much of the story on his own experiences trying to break into the acting industry.