Seminar 2.

ACTING IN FILM
Questions for discussion
1. Types of acting.
In film, there are several types or styles of acting, each with its own techniques and
approaches.
Method Acting: Method acting is an approach in which actors delve deep into their
characters' emotions and experiences to deliver authentic and natural performances. This technique
involves drawing from personal experiences and emotions to understand and portray a character's
motivations and mindset. Method actors often engage in extensive research and preparation to fully
immerse themselves in their roles.
Classical Acting: Also known as traditional or stage acting, classical acting emphasizes clear
diction, projection, and expressive gestures to convey emotions and tell a story. Actors trained in
classical acting techniques focus on mastering vocal control, physical presence, and character
development to deliver powerful performances on stage or screen.
Meisner Technique: Developed by American actor and acting teacher Sanford Meisner, the
Meisner Technique emphasizes truthful and spontaneous reactions between actors in a scene. This
technique encourages actors to listen and respond instinctively to their scene partners, focusing on
truthful behavior rather than premeditated actions or emotions.
Physical Acting: Physical acting focuses on the body as a primary tool for expression, using
movement, posture, and gesture to convey emotions and communicate with the audience. Physical
actors often undergo extensive training in dance, mime, or physical theater techniques to develop
their ability to convey meaning through non-verbal communication.
Improvisational Acting: Improvisational acting, or improv, involves spontaneous and
unscripted performance based on improvisation exercises or prompts. Actors in improv scenes rely
on quick thinking, creativity, and collaboration to develop characters, dialogue, and narratives in
real-time. Improv techniques are often used to enhance spontaneity and authenticity in scripted
performances as well.
Comedic Acting* Comedic acting focuses on delivering humor and entertainment through
exaggerated expressions, timing, and delivery. Comedic actors often rely on physical comedy, facial
expressions, and vocal inflections to elicit laughter from the audience. Timing and comic timing are
crucial skills for comedic actors to master.
Character Acting: Character actors specialize in portraying unique and often eccentric
characters that stand out from the main cast. These actors undergo extensive transformations
through makeup, costumes, and accents to fully embody their roles. Character actors may play
supporting or background roles but are often memorable and impactful in their performances.
Each type of acting has its strengths and challenges, and many actors incorporate elements
of multiple techniques into their performances depending on the requirements of the role and the
director's vision for the film.
2. The role and functions of acting in film narrative.
The role of acting in film narrative is crucial as actors bring characters to life, conveying
emotions, motivations, and conflicts that drive the story forward.Character Development: Actors
play a central role in developing characters within the film narrative. Through their performances,
actors breathe life into characters, imbuing them with unique personalities, quirks, and
complexities. By portraying characters with depth and authenticity, actors help the audience
understand their motivations, desires, and struggles.
Emotional Engagement: One of the primary functions of acting is to evoke emotional
responses from the audience. Through nuanced performances, actors elicit empathy, sympathy, joy,
sadness, fear, or anger, depending on the emotional journey of their characters. Emotional
engagement is essential for audience immersion in the story and investment in the characters'
fates.Conflict and Tension: Acting contributes to the creation of conflict and tension within the film
narrative. As characters interact and clash with one another, actors convey the tension and dynamics
of their relationships through their performances. Whether through verbal confrontations, subtle
gestures, or intense physical confrontations, actors heighten the stakes and drive the plot forward.
Storytelling: Acting serves as a primary vehicle for storytelling in film. Through dialogue,
expressions, and actions, actors communicate key plot points, themes, and messages to the
audience. Effective acting enhances the clarity and coherence of the narrative, guiding viewers
through the story and helping them connect with its themes and messages on a personal level.
Visual and Aesthetic Appeal: Beyond conveying narrative information, acting contributes to
the visual and aesthetic appeal of a film. Dynamic performances, expressive gestures, and
captivating expressions enhance the cinematic experience, drawing viewers into the world of the
film and holding their attention. Actors' physical presence and charisma add texture and depth to the
visual composition of each scene.
Character Transformation: Acting allows for the portrayal of character transformation and
growth throughout the film narrative. Actors depict the evolution of their characters' beliefs, values,
and relationships over time, reflecting the arc of their journeys. Whether through subtle changes in
demeanor or dramatic shifts in behavior, actors convey the internal and external changes
experienced by their characters.
Audience Connection: Finally, acting plays a crucial role in fostering a connection between
the audience and the characters on screen. Through their performances, actors create relatable and
compelling characters that resonate with viewers on an emotional level. This connection encourages
empathy, investment, and identification with the characters' struggles and triumphs, making the film
narrative more impactful and memorable.
In summary, acting is integral to the success of film narrative, shaping characters, eliciting
emotions, driving conflict, and engaging the audience in the story. Through their performances,
actors contribute to the immersive and transformative experience of cinema, bringing the world of
the film to life and leaving a lasting impression on viewers.
3. The influence of acting on the emotional atmosphere and authenticity in film.
Acting plays a significant role in shaping the emotional atmosphere and authenticity in film,
influencing how audiences perceive and engage with the story. Here's how acting contributes to
these aspects:
Emotional Atmosphere: The emotional atmosphere of a film is largely shaped by the
performances of the actors. Through their expressions, gestures, and delivery of lines, actors convey
a wide range of emotions that set the tone for each scene and the overall mood of the film. For
example, a skilled actor can infuse a scene with tension, suspense, or melancholy through subtle
nuances in their performance. The emotional depth and authenticity of the actors' portrayals
enhance the immersive experience for the audience, drawing them into the world of the film and
evoking empathetic responses.
Character Dynamics: Acting influences the dynamics between characters, which in turn
contribute to the emotional atmosphere of the film. The chemistry, rapport, and conflicts between
actors on screen shape the interpersonal relationships depicted in the narrative. Convincing
performances help establish believable connections between characters, heightening the emotional
impact of their interactions. Whether through romantic chemistry, familial bonds, or antagonistic
rivalries, the authenticity of the actors' portrayals enhances the audience's investment in the
characters' relationships and the unfolding drama.
Authenticity: Authenticity in acting refers to the genuine and truthful portrayal of characters
and emotions. Authentic performances resonate with audiences on a deeper level, eliciting genuine
emotional responses and fostering a sense of connection with the characters and their experiences.
Actors who embody their characters convincingly, drawing from their own emotions and
experiences, create a sense of realism that enhances the authenticity of the film. This authenticity is
essential for building empathy and engagement, allowing viewers to relate to the characters and
invest in their journeys.
Immersion and Suspension of Disbelief: Acting contributes to the audience's ability to
suspend disbelief and become fully immersed in the world of the film. When actors deliver
authentic and emotionally resonant performances, viewers are more likely to become emotionally
invested in the story and characters, setting aside their awareness of the fictional nature of the
narrative. This immersion allows audiences to experience the film on a visceral level, feeling the
highs and lows of the characters' journey as if they were living it themselves.
In summary, acting influences the emotional atmosphere and authenticity in film by shaping
the portrayal of emotions, character dynamics, and the overall immersive experience for the
audience. Authentic performances enhance the emotional resonance of the film, drawing viewers
into the story and fostering a deeper connection with the characters and their experiences.
4. In terms of character relationships, how do actors create chemistry with co-stars?
Creating chemistry with co-stars is essential for portraying believable and engaging
character relationships on screen. Actors employ various techniques and approaches to establish
chemistry with their fellow performers.
Building trust is crucial for fostering chemistry between co-stars. Actors often spend time
getting to know each other off-screen, sharing personal experiences, and forming a rapport that
translates into a sense of comfort and mutual respect on set. Trust allows actors to open up
emotionally and take risks in their performances, leading to more authentic interactions on screen.
Creating chemistry often requires actors to be emotionally vulnerable with each other. By
sharing their own emotions and experiences, actors can establish a deeper connection and empathy
with their co-stars, leading to more authentic and emotionally resonant performances. Embracing
vulnerability allows actors to explore the emotional depth of their characters' relationships and
create moments of genuine intimacy on screen.
Effective communication and active listening are essential for creating chemistry between
co-stars. Actors focus on listening intently to their scene partners, responding authentically to their
cues, and staying present in the moment. By genuinely engaging with each other's performances,
actors establish a sense of connection and responsiveness that enhances the believability of their
interactions.
Study the film vocabulary
Expressive: The actor's ability to convey emotions effectively through facial
expressions and body language. The actor's expressive performance brought depth to the
character's emotional journey.
Nuanced: Acting that involves subtle and detailed expressions, adding layers to the
character. Her nuanced portrayal of the character's inner struggles left a lasting impression.
Dynamic: Acting that is energetic, powerful, and engaging. The dynamic performance of
the lead actor captivated the audience from start to finish.
Authentic: Acting that feels genuine and true to life, creating a believable character.
The actor's authentic portrayal made the audience connect with the character on a personal
level.
Compelling: Acting that is captivating and holds the audience's attention.
The actor delivered a compelling performance, keeping the audience on the edge of their
seats.
Versatile: An actor's ability to play a wide range of characters convincingly.
His versatile acting skills allow him to seamlessly transition between different genres.
Cinematic Presence: The impact an actor has on screen, commanding attention
through charisma and skill. Her cinematic presence elevates every scene she's in, making her a
standout performer.
Chemistry: The on-screen connection between actors, especially in scenes requiring
emotional or romantic interactions.
The chemistry between the lead actors added depth and authenticity to the love story.
Immersive: Acting that draws the audience into the world of the film, creating a sense
of realism. The immersive acting transported viewers into the character's experiences, making the
story more relatable.
 Magnetic: Acting that has a powerful and irresistible quality, attracting the audience's
attention.
The actor's magnetic performance left a lasting impression on everyone who watched the
film.
Scene Stealer: An actor who consistently attracts attention and dominates a scene.
In every ensemble cast, there's always a scene stealer who leaves a memorable impact.
Understated: Acting that is subtle and restrained, conveying emotions without being
overly dramatic.
Her understated performance in the dramatic scene spoke volumes about the character's
internal turmoil.
Scene Transition: The smooth movement and flow between different scenes or
moments in a film.
The seamless scene transitions allowed the audience to stay engaged in the unfolding
narrative.
Character Development: The evolution of a character throughout the course of a film.
The actor's commitment to character development was evident in the nuanced changes
observed in the protagonist.
Physicality: The use of body movements and gestures to enhance the portrayal of a
character.
His mastery of physicality allowed him to fully embody the character, creating a memorable
performance.
Affective: Acting that evokes an emotional response from the audience. The actress's
affective performance left the audience in tears during the poignant moments.

Film analysis
Watch a short film clip with various emotions portrayed.
I would like to analyse one of my favorite fascinating movie.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CmxArNBJHFQ

Identify moments where the acting is expressive, nuanced, and dynamic.

In the scene depicting John Coffey's execution in "The Green Mile," there are several
moments where the acting is highly expressive, nuanced, and dynamic:
John Coffey's Resignation: As John Coffey (portrayed by Michael Clarke Duncan) is led to
the electric chair, his facial expressions convey a sense of resignation and acceptance of his fate.
Despite his innocence, there is a profound sadness in his eyes, suggesting the weight of the injustice
he faces. Duncan's portrayal captures the complexity of Coffey's emotions in this harrowing
moment.Paul Edgecomb's Internal Struggle: Tom Hanks, playing the role of prison guard Paul
Edgecomb, delivers a nuanced performance that reflects his character's internal struggle. As he
prepares to carry out Coffey's execution, Hanks conveys a mixture of conflict, doubt, and sorrow.
His facial expressions and body language reveal the moral dilemma plaguing Edgecomb, adding
depth to the scene.
The Guards' Reactions: The reactions of the other guards, portrayed by actors such as David
Morse and Barry Pepper, also contribute to the emotional depth of the scene. Their expressions
range from stoic professionalism to quiet anguish, reflecting the moral and emotional impact of
their roles in Coffey's execution. These nuanced performances enhance the overall authenticity of
the scene.
Coffey's Final Words: In his final moments, John Coffey's vocal delivery is both powerful
and poignant. Despite the gravity of the situation, his voice remains calm and steady as he speaks
his last words. Michael Clarke Duncan's delivery imbues Coffey's words with a sense of dignity and
grace, underscoring the tragedy of his unjust fate.
 Overall, the execution scene in "The Green Mile" is a masterclass in expressive, nuanced,
and dynamic acting. Through their performances, the actors convey the complex emotions and
moral dilemmas faced by their characters, elevating the scene to a profoundly moving and
memorable moment in cinematic history.
Describe them in the aspects of their performance that stood out to you, such as facial
expressions, body language, vocal delivery, and overall emotional impact. Consider how the actors
convey the depth and authenticity of their characters through their performances.

In "The Green Mile" (1999), John Coffey's execution scene is undeniably one of the most
emotionally charged moments in the film, showcasing expressive, nuanced, and dynamic acting
from the cast.
Facial Expressions: Michael Clarke Duncan, who portrays John Coffey, delivers a poignant
performance through his facial expressions. As he sits in the electric chair, there's a mixture of
resignation and sorrow in his eyes, conveying the weight of his impending death. Despite his
innocence, there's a sense of acceptance and understanding, adding layers of complexity to his
character.
Body Language: Duncan's body language in this scene is incredibly powerful. His posture is
slumped, and his movements are slow and deliberate, reflecting Coffey's heavy heart and weariness.
Even as he's being led to his execution, there's a sense of dignity and grace in his demeanor,
highlighting his gentle nature despite the injustice he faces.
Vocal Delivery: Duncan's vocal delivery is subdued yet commanding. His deep voice carries
a sense of resignation and quiet strength, resonating with the audience as he speaks his final words.
Despite the pain and injustice he's endured, there's a sense of forgiveness and compassion in his
voice, showcasing Coffey's innate goodness and humanity.
Emotional Impact: The execution scene in "The Green Mile" is emotionally devastating,
largely due to the authentic and heartfelt performances of the actors involved. Duncan's portrayal of
Coffey's vulnerability and innocence evokes a profound sense of empathy and sorrow from the
audience. Through his performance, he conveys the depth of Coffey's character, leaving a lasting
impact long after the scene has ended.
In summary, the execution scene in "The Green Mile" exemplifies expressive, nuanced, and
dynamic acting, particularly in Michael Clarke Duncan's portrayal of John Coffey. Through his
facial expressions, body language, vocal delivery, and overall emotional impact, Duncan effectively
conveys the depth and authenticity of Coffey's character, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.
Write a paragraph analyzing how the actor's versatility contributes to the character's
believability.
The actor's versatility plays a crucial role in contributing to the character's believability by
allowing them to embody a wide range of emotions, traits, and experiences authentically. When an
actor demonstrates versatility in their performance, they can convincingly portray the complexities
and nuances of their character, making them feel more relatable and human to the audience. By
seamlessly transitioning between moments of joy, sorrow, anger, vulnerability, and strength, the
actor creates a multi-dimensional portrayal that resonates with viewers on a deeper level. This
versatility enables the actor to fully inhabit the character's psyche, motivations, and mannerisms,
bringing them to life in a way that feels genuine and compelling. As a result, the character becomes
more believable and engaging, drawing the audience into their story and evoking empathy and
understanding for their journey. Overall, the actor's versatility enhances the character's believability
by allowing them to embody the full spectrum of human emotion and experience with authenticity
and depth.