I know a lot of people think actors are professional liars. I can understand why they would make that assumption. However, there is a lot of honesty and truth in acting. At least from the actor’s point-of-view.
Let me explain.
As an actor, when I read a script and I am preparing for a role, I must find within myself an element of truth. I must find apart of myself that is like or similar to the character. The truth comes from me.
It is a must that actors become self-aware. I must know what makes me tick as a person. Getting to know yourself is a process and takes time. This is one of the reasons it takes an actor years to carve out a niche for themselves.
Another side of the truth coin, in acting, is reacting. In a scene, I must listen to my scene partner(s) and react authentically – truthfully. If my reaction is false or over-dramatized, I risk pulling not only my scene partner out of the movement but I risk losing the audience as well. No one wants to lose the audience, literally and figuratively.
We, actors, are a sensitive bunch. Our job requires sensitivity. In essence, I have to wear my feelings on my sleeve. Without real, honest, and truthful emotions in my performance, the performance itself would be fake and contrived. We all can detect when emotions are being faked, no matter if it is film, television, web-based material or Life.
You maybe thinking about something you watched in which the scene was “just off.” You probably said to yourself, “something’s not right,” right?! Now think about the times you were not drawn into the story. Leave a comment and tell me about it. I would love to hear from you. TTFN
– Amanda