How To Be A Naturalistic Film Actor... No Luvvies Allowed!

Having been in the industry now for over 20if I don't believe it, than neither will anyone else. In
years, I have come to understand that there arefact, the first step is getting you to believe what
at least two types of actors.you are doing, and then so will the audience.
There is the actor who is all about the highI believe a lot of drama schools and acting
drama, it's all about them and they are theteachers don't give enough of this kind of critique.
quintessential 'luvvie darlings' of the industry.Sometimes too many concessions are given to
The other type is the down to earth, hardthe fact that it's acting, and we should 'suspend
working actor whose work is based in realism andour disbelief'.
naturalism.This is absolute nonsense.
The latter are the types who thrive particularlyWhy should we suspend our disbelief. I want it as
well in TV and Film.real as possible please. I want to believe every
The type of acting that is required for film issyllable. Why? Because it's possible. It can be
acting that is so real that we forget it's acting.achieved with some hard work and honest
That is how great acting is achieved on film.feedback.
There is no place for over the top, hammed-upBut the other thing is that many acting coaches,
theatrical acting. You would be laughed out thebelieve it or not, don't have an eye for this. I
door! In fact, many actors that go through ahave met some and employed some over the
typical drama school training in the UK really haveyears that do have a great eye for truthful
to readjust as they enter the TV and Film arena,acting, but the vast majority whose work I have
because so much of their training was basedseen and experienced, sadly, just don't have an
around theatre.eye for it.
Now, I don't have anything against theatre. InMy advice, when considering your acting training, is
fact, I love theatre and film... when it's done well.to work with the best. A great training is worth
The thing is, a great actor will bring that sense ofits weight in gold. We are talking about your talent
realism and believability to both mediums.here, and you want to hold that precious, and
My acting courses and classes are focused onnurture it by working with the best.
achieving this sort of acting. My yard stick is that