The Actor and the Camera

by Denis Lawson, Ewan McGregor (Foreword)

"Denis is a great actor and he’s always been my inspiration, since I was a child… He’s the only person really in the world who I discuss acting with if I feel that I’m stuck. I love watching him still." - Ewan McGregor, from the foreword

Drawing on his lifetime career in front of the camera (and sometimes behind it), Denis Lawson offers a wonderfully accessible introduction to acting for film and TV. For the young actor hoping to break into the industry – whether in a drama series, soap or sitcom – this book is the ultimate insider’s guide.

The author takes us on a guided tour of the film or TV set from day one. We meet the various members of the crew, from the director of photography to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd ADs, and learn what each of them does – and how to get the most from them in your work as an actor. Then comes the actual business of shooting the scenes, beginning with readthroughs and rehearsals (if there are any), on to hitting your mark and getting your eye-line right, finishing with the actor’s involvement in post-production.

Throughout, Lawson takes the actor’s point of view, offering encouragement and enlightenment, as well as being refreshingly candid about some of the more inane procedures. Above all, he offers a magnificent array of tips and inside knowledge for coping with what can be a daunting experience for a hopeful young actor.

Genres: Education

192 pages, Paperback

First published September 9, 2014

Reviews

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book should be MANDATORY reading for all new TV & feature film actors. Really. It's a fast read, written in a very informal style with complete honesty and transparency from its author - a respected and much underrated veteran of British film and television. As a writer and producer interested in the actor's journey, it was both insightful and reassuring to know that newbies have a point of reference for their early careers. This book answers all the questions that novice (and probably many experienced) actors want to ask but don't (which frustrates the hell out of producers) and demystifies the business - something that can only benefit every department on a shoot. I also like the way Lawson describes the subtle but hugely important differences between how TV and films are made and - more importantly - the differences between acting for stage, small screen and large screen.

I can't recommend it highly enough - it really should be on the syllabus every drama/acting school.

[Erin Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

'Smoking is one of the greatest 'acting props' of all time... what a pity that it kills you!'

*insert laughter track*

My oh my! Why is this book not a standard on film school courses, okay maybe it's a little outdated but still!

I had such a fun and relaxed reading experience over the 2 days it took me to go through this book. And during those 2 days, this book taught me more about the filmmaking process than my 3 years at university did.

Denis Lawson lets his personal voice shine throughout the book, which lends itself over to comedic moments, while still delivering essential information to the reader.

This book is written from the perspective of the actor, but I highly recommend that all those who wish to enter the film industry read this book. Especially if you're a film student, there's info in this book that your educational institution probably won't tell you - but is still worth knowing.

Comedic & Insightful.

[Debbie Bridge · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book such a great read for dealing with a lot of the practicalities on sets.

I've been recommending to one and all, as a great reference to have for all those times you don't want to ask the production team or ways to pace yourself through a day or weeks of filming.