6.3 Acting and Performance

Acting and performance are crucial elements of mise-en-scène, shaping how characters come to life on screen. From method acting to physical transformations, actors use various techniques to create authentic portrayals that captivate audiences.

Nonverbal communication, character development, and ensemble work all contribute to the overall impact of a film. Understanding these aspects helps viewers appreciate the nuances of performance and its role in storytelling.

Acting Techniques

Approaches to Acting

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• Acting styles vary widely and can be classified based on the level of realism or stylization in the performance
• Method acting is a technique where actors deeply immerse themselves in the character's emotions and experiences, often drawing upon their own personal experiences to create a realistic portrayal (Marlon Brando in "A Streetcar Named Desire")
• Naturalistic performances aim to create a sense of realism, with actors delivering lines and movements in a way that feels authentic and true to life (Meryl Streep in "Kramer vs. Kramer")
• Stylized performances are more exaggerated or theatrical, often used in genres like comedy, musicals, or experimental films (Jim Carrey in "The Mask")

Techniques for Achieving Authenticity

• Actors may use various techniques to achieve authenticity in their performances, such as emotional memory, sense memory, or the magic "if"
• Emotional memory involves actors drawing upon their own past experiences to relate to the character's emotions and create a genuine performance
• Sense memory focuses on recalling physical sensations to create a realistic response in the actor's body and voice
• The magic "if" technique requires actors to ask themselves how they would respond if they were in the character's situation, helping them to create a believable performance

Physical Performance

Nonverbal Communication

• Facial expressions are a crucial aspect of an actor's performance, conveying the character's emotions and inner thoughts without the need for dialogue (a furrowed brow to indicate confusion or anger)
• Body language, including posture, gestures, and movement, can reveal a character's personality, mood, and intentions (a confident stride or a nervous fidget)
• Vocal delivery, such as tone, pitch, and rhythm, can convey a character's emotional state, background, or attitude (a shaky voice to indicate fear or a firm, authoritative tone)

Physical Transformation

• Actors may undergo physical transformations to embody their characters, such as gaining or losing weight, changing their hair or makeup, or adopting a specific physicality
• These transformations can help actors to fully immerse themselves in the role and create a more convincing performance (Christian Bale's dramatic weight loss for "The Machinist")
• Costume and makeup also play a significant role in an actor's physical transformation, helping to establish the character's age, social status, or historical context (elaborate period costumes in "Marie Antoinette")

Character and Ensemble

Developing a Character

• Character development involves actors creating a fully realized, three-dimensional character with a distinct personality, background, and motivation
• Actors may create a character biography or backstory to better understand their character's life experiences and emotional journey
• Through research and analysis of the script, actors can identify key traits, relationships, and conflicts that shape their character's behavior and choices

Working as an Ensemble

• Ensemble acting requires actors to work together seamlessly, creating a sense of unity and shared purpose within the cast
• Actors must listen and respond to each other, both verbally and nonverbally, to create a dynamic and believable interaction between characters (the cast of "Friends")
• Effective ensemble acting can elevate the overall quality of a film or television show, as the characters' relationships and conflicts feel more authentic and engaging

Star Personas and Typecasting

• Star personas are the public images and expectations associated with well-known actors, often based on their previous roles or personal lives (Tom Hanks as the likable everyman)
• Typecasting occurs when actors are repeatedly cast in similar roles due to their star persona or physical appearance, which can limit their opportunities to showcase their range (Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson as the action hero)
• Some actors may embrace their star persona, while others actively seek out roles that challenge these expectations and demonstrate their versatility (Jim Carrey's dramatic turn in "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind")