Hollywood actress and author Nellie Sciutto began her presentation with a short history of her past. She was born and raised on the infamous Park Avenue in New York City. Her mother was a journalist at Newsweek Magazine and her dad worked for Shell Oil. She knew from a young age that Hollywood was in her future and she wanted to become an actress, but also held her mother’s love of writing.
In 2021, Scuitto wrote her memoir, “50 Moments: Faking It, Taking and Making It as a Working Actor in Hollywood.” During her presentation, she shared stories from her book, including funny behind-the-scenes moments that she experienced during her time in Hollywood.
Sciutto also shared clips from the various films that she has been in and also the series that she produced for AMC titled “The Tailor of Sin City.” This, one of her most recent projects, was one near and dear to her heart. Sciutto travelled around the country for a year interviewing people for this production.
She also read funny segments from her book, including an embarrassing moment in the office of a famous director. She then had the audience write their most embarrassing moment and had a few participants share theirs with the group. She spoke of her love for Hollywood and working as an actress.
When asked what her favorite film that she was a part of, Sciutto answered “Shutter Island.” This was one of many films that she did under the direction of Martin Scorsese, where she played a nurse alongside actor Leonardo DiCaprio.
Scuitto also shared that she is writing another book about five college girls, though this novel will be fiction. It will talk about their experiences throughout college and then follow them during their 20’s, 30’s, 40’s, and 50’s.
She kept the audience engaged by giving them writing prompts and asking them to share with their peers. She rewarded those who engaged with Starbucks gift cards. I was inspired by the words of Mrs. Sciutto and enjoyed getting a backstage view into the world of Hollywood. I hope that she will return next year and share more of her experiences with students.
