Acting 101: The Art of Authentic Acting

Authentic Acting is never acting, its becoming.

"To grasp the full significance of life is the actor’s duty, to interpret it is his problem, and to express it his dedication.” - Marlon Brando

In the world of film and television, there's a profound distinction between actors who merely act and those who become the character they portray. The greatest advice I ever recieved from a director is to Never Act On Set, Become.

This is a skill that separates the good from the great, the ordinary from the extraordinary. Aspiring actors and actresses, if you're looking to make your mark in the entertainment industry, it's crucial to understand that the secret to captivating performances lies in becoming the character, not acting like Character. You got to own that Character and brand that character as yourself.

The Transformational Power of Becoming the Character

Think about your favorite actors and the unforgettable roles they've played. What sets them apart? It's not just their talent or charisma; it's their ability to become someone else entirely, immersing themselves in the character's world.

Whether it's Daniel Day-Lewis in "There Will Be Blood" or Meryl Streep in "The Iron Lady," these actors don't merely act; they become the character, mind, body, and soul.

Here's why this approach is so essential for up-and-coming actors:

1. Authenticity is Magnetic: Audiences can spot a fake from a mile away. When you become the character, your performance feels genuine, drawing viewers into the story and creating a connection that transcends the screen.

2. Emotional Depth: Characters come to life when actors fully embody their emotions, thoughts, and experiences. Becoming the character allows you to explore the depths of their psyche, delivering performances that are rich in nuance and complexity.

3. Relatability: When you become the character, your portrayal becomes relatable. Audiences see a piece of themselves in the character, making the story more engaging and impactful.

Special Feature: Inside "Race Against Time" with Lhana Richards

In our exploration of the art of authentic acting, we often come across actors who have truly mastered the craft of becoming the character. Today, we're thrilled to bring you a unique perspective from the world of television and film – a perspective that ties in perfectly with our exploration of this transformative art.

As we continue to delve into the topic of becoming the character, let's take a moment to consider the upcoming action/adventure series, "Race Against Time."

The characters in this series are not your run-of-the-mill roles; they are complex, multidimensional, and demand the utmost commitment from the actors who portray them. You can learn more about and support this exciting series by visiting their Kickstarter campaign here:

Today, we have the privilege of hearing from one of the lead supporting actresses in "Race Against Time," the incredibly gifted Lhana Richards. With a lifelong passion for acting, Lhana brings her extensive skillset to the role of Lucia. To get a deeper insight into her journey and her experiences in becoming the character, visit her profile here: Lhana Richards - An Emerging Star.

Now, let's hear directly from Lhana as she answers the question: What is one thing that helps you prepare to become a character on set?

The Art of Becoming

So, how can you become the character rather than just acting like one? Here are some practical steps to help you on your journey:

1. Research Extensively: Start by delving into the character's background, motivations, and history. Understand their psychology, quirks, and mannerisms. Read, watch, and listen to everything related to the character's world.

2. Physical Transformation: Embodying the character often requires physical changes. This might mean altering your appearance, posture, or even your voice. Consider the incredible transformations of actors like Christian Bale in "The Machinist" or Charlize Theron in "Monster."

3. Mental Immersion: Put yourself in the character's shoes. Imagine how they think, feel, and react to different situations. Create a detailed backstory for your character, even if it won't appear on screen.

4. Dialogue and Diction: Master the character's way of speaking. Pay attention to their choice of words, accent, and speech patterns. This linguistic transformation can be one of the most compelling aspects of becoming the character.

5. Emotional Connection: Develop a personal connection with the character's emotions. Draw from your own experiences to understand and express the character's feelings authentically.

6. Director-Actor Collaboration: Collaborate closely with your director. A good director will guide you toward becoming the character, providing valuable insights and feedback.

7. Stay in Character: Even when the cameras aren't rolling, stay in character. This helps maintain the authenticity of your performance and allows you to fully inhabit the role.

In the world of acting, the ability to become the character is a superpower. It's what transforms a good actor into a remarkable one and leaves a lasting impact on the audience. Remember, the best actors in the world don't just act; they become their characters.

Aspiring actors and actresses, embrace the transformative power of becoming the character. Dive deep into the character's world, let their emotions flow through you, and watch as your performances take on a new level of authenticity and depth. Samuel L. Jackson has some great insight on your hidden superpower.

Putting all this in motion, you'll not only impress directors and casting agents but also inspire and connect with audiences in ways you never thought possible. So, don't act – become the character, and let your star shine brightly in the world of entertainment.

In conclusion, the ability to become the character is a superpower in the world of acting. When an actor truly becomes the character, authenticity shines through, captivating the audience and forging a connection that lasts long after the credits roll.

Aspiring actors and actresses, remember that authenticity is magnetic. Embrace the transformative power of becoming the character, and let your performances resonate with the world. And, while you're at it, don't forget to show your support for the exciting action/adventure series, "Race Against Time," by visiting their Kickstarter campaign (http://kck.st/44WQN02). Your contribution can help bring authenticity and magic to the screen.