IAFT Student

IAFT Mike Bruggink Profile

Former IAFT student Mike Bruggink has traveled far from his hometown of Plymouth, Wisconsin. Following a fascinating and diverse path that led from stints as a stage technician for major music legends and film production assistant, to a successful career in U.S. Army where he achieved rank of Sergeant by his 23rd birthday, to a position with a paramilitary organization in Kuwait, Mike eventually became an in-demand personal trainer, business owner, and martial artist in Asia before enrolling at IAFT.

In Fall 2007, Mike began studying at IAFT under the Filmmaking and then Acting programs. While still working on a student thesis, he attended a casting call for the new action/thriller Disarmed, and was initially cast in a bit part. Before shooting began in early 2008, the producer and director re-cast Mike in a pivotal role as Sarge, a former soldier turned mercenary. For the part, Mike drew upon his considerable life experience as a former army sergeant.

Disarmed was shot entirely in the Philippines using Bigfoot Entertainment equipment, and features veteran Filipino actor Rez Cortez, Steven Bauer of Scarface fame and AJ Draven in a starring role. The film recently screened at the Action On Film Festival in Pasadena , CA , where it was nominated in seven different categories.

Discussing his experience at IAFT, Mike comments: “I was very impressed with IAFT’s programs, and my Acting mentor, Dan Shor. Dan’s extensive background with big-budget studio productions carried over very well into his classes: I knew I was being coached by someone who had real experience as a working film and television actor, which in turn gave me a lot of confidence to work in this industry.”

Since completing Disarmed, Mike has also finished production on Girl With No Number, Bigfoot Entertainment’s upcoming feature film release. Additionally, he has a role in the upcoming drama My Lai Four, based on the My Lai massacre during the Vietnam War, which is already generating buzz in the film world. In addition to these movies, Mike just wrapped a commercial in the Philippines featuring renowned boxer Manny Pacquiao.

These days, Mike remains very busy. He has landed roles in three upcoming features, including a film about kickboxing in Thailand, an action/thriller shooting in Cebu, and a military-themed feature that is scheduled to begin shooting later this year.

After completing his whirlwind schedule, Mike plans to return to the United States and establish a home base in Los Angeles to continue his rising career.

“I’ve really enjoyed working with everyone at IAFT and Bigfoot, and I look forward to having the opportunity to do so again in the future,” says Mike. “Out of the more than twenty countries I have been to, Filipinos are without a doubt the most welcoming people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. It's definitely been an amazing experience being here.”

Links:
Official Website
IMDB
Testimonial