While directing a movie, something that seems to give most amateurs trouble is figuring out exactly talk to an actor. What type of direction will help them? What type will hurt them?
Read this tutorial and you will understand get the best out of your actors.
Instructions
Speak to Actors in a Film
1. Everyone is different. There will never be one solid solution on deal with every single person. Get to know the actors well before the shoot so you learn about their sensitivity levels and how their psyches work.
2. Never use the words "more" or "less." Actors hate hearing lines like "Be more upset" or "Be less enthusiastic." That does not tell them how much or little to do something.
3. Be specific. If you need a specific emotion, tell the actor what you specifically need. Time is money when it comes to movies and the more you waste trying to be nice, the less producers will like you.
4. Always be honest. Saying things like "That was good, BUT I want ______ instead" does nothing but show a lack of respect. It tells the actors that you are smarter than them and need to baby them rather than work with them.
5. Make sure an actor understands the meaning of each line and each word in that line. If he cannot nail it, it is very likely he does not understand the meaning.
6. If an actor wants to try something differently, compromise with her. Do a take of it her way and a take of it your way. Collaboration is the key.
7. ALWAYS COMMUNICATE. Communication is not only the key to good working relationships but bad usage of it can also be the downfall of one.
