8 Techniques for Film Acting
In my opinion; when you decide to start the acting profession, you should get familiar with some acting techniques, just so you know what's out there and what to have fun with. There are so many different acting techniques around world, it can be overwhelming, so I broke it down to the 8 well known acting techniques for you. Simple and sweet!
Stanislavski's System The father of method acting, this is one of the world's most frequently taught acting techniques based on the idea of the "art of experiencing". Konstantin Stanislavski inspired scores of future teachers including Stella Adler, Sanford Meisner, and Lee Strasberg. Think emotional memory recall, spiritual realism, and self-analysis.
Lee Strasberg's Method Lee Strasberg studied Stanislavski's technique to create "The Method" but focused on the psychological aspects. Lee Strasberg's actors intensify their connections to the work by mimicking characters' experiences within the context of their own (real) lives and reaching deeper connections and understandings of their characters' emotional worlds.
Stella Adler Stella Adler's approach is also built on that of Stanislavski, however she was against the idea of using past experiences for the sake of acting. Her technique revolves around the development of independent actors, the power of the imagination, the importance of action, script interpretation, and the cultivation of a rich humanity. In her words, "You have to get beyond your own precious inner experiences."
Meisner Technique Developed by Sanford Meisner, the Meisner technique, too, builds on Stanislavski. The goal is for the actor to "get out of his or her head and live truthfully under given imaginary circumstances" therefore creating a natural performance. The work emphasizes openness, instinct, honesty, and listening above all.
Michael Chekhov Michael Chekhov's acting technique is based on the perception that actors should not imitate life but interpret it, to uncover its hidden meaning for an audience. Chekhov created a famous "psycho-physical" technique which draws on physical actions and mind-body connection to create a sensual approach to the character.
Practical Aesthetics Created by actor William H. Macy and playwright David Mamet, this analytical approach emphasizes the simple pursuit of an action above all else. Actors approach goes to text-analysis, script work, and a literal understanding of a scene's driving events.
Uta Hagen Uta Hagen wrote two books on the craft which are still highly respected: "A Challenge for the Actor," and "Respect for Acting". It's all about realism for Uta Hagen, students are taught to "substitute" or "transfer" their own memories into the experiences of their characters, building deep connections based on their own personal truths.
Viola Spolin Viola Spolin is considered to be the mother of Improvisational theater. Her work has influenced American theater, television and film by providing new tools and techniques. Her famous "theater games" approach inspires students to become entirely present and spontaneous during a performance. Her technique focuses on self-direction and improvisation.
Basic Rules That Every Actor Should Know
Come Prepared to Land the Perfect Role
There are thousands of aspiring actors in Los Angeles alone, each hoping for one big break that will launch their career. Only a few will ever make it as actors, and even fewer will perform beyond a B movie role or television appearance. So, what can you do to increase your chances for success?
Realize that you have limited control over certain things, such as how you look in real life and how you sound, but there are steps you can take that can increase your chances of getting a part.
Learn Your Craft
Just like any art form, acting is a craft that can be improved continuously. Take acting classes, learn from other actors and mentors, and hone your craft. Many top-tier actors work with acting coaches to learn and refine their techniques.
Never Be Late
It might seem obvious, but promptness is crucial. Tardiness is a weakness that no director will tolerate because there are plenty of actors who will arrive hours early. Casting sessions typically last just a few minutes, and they are scheduled at odd times such as 7:25 a.m. or 6:50 a.m. on purpose to determine your reliability. Be early or don’t bother showing up. Patience weighs thin at a casting session, and few actions will hurt your chances more than being late.
Memorize Your Lines
If you fail to learn your lines, you will not be hired. Spend time preparing your lines and your delivery. If you are well prepared, you will be less nervous and better able to perform.
Do Not Rewrite Lines
Never add your own words to what is written in the script. There’s no better way to offend a writer than to ad lib or to come up with your own lines. Your job as an actor is to deliver the written lines convincingly. If you think your own dialogue might be better, then become a writer.
Listen
You must demonstrate that you can take direction. Listen to what you are being told. Sometimes the casting director, writer, or director will give you some direction prior or during the audition, or during the audition for a particular line. Listen to what you are told and take the time you need to process it. If you are not sure what the director means, repeat the instructions back to the director for confirmation. During an audition, more often than not, a director will be happy to give you a few minutes to incorporate the new direction into the lines.
Submit an Accurate Headshot
Your headshot should portray your true appearance. If you have gained weight, cut your hair, or are a few years older, get a new headshot. Your old headshot will not be the one getting the job if your current appearance represents someone other than who the casting committee was expecting.
Commit
Actors who genuinely commit to a reading are fun to watch. They literally transform themselves into the character. By committing fully to the reading, you will dissolve any nervousness and play the part with genuine passion.
Make No Excuses
Life happens. Perhaps you couldn’t learn your lines because you lost your power. You were an hour late because you were stuck in traffic, or you had to take your dog to the emergency vet. Attribute these annoyances to some of life's inevitabilities and don't attempt to give excuses. No one cares because there are so many others who are waiting to take your place. Don't punish yourself, but prepare well in advance of the deadline and have a contingency plan in place to avoid being late.
The life of an actor is not as easy as it may seem. There are often long periods of financial insecurity, fierce competition, and rejection that make the overall process that much more difficult. Still, knowing the most basic elements and adhering to simple rules will give you the best chance for success.
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