Acting For Film: Truth 24 Times a Second

by Mel Churcher

Synopsis Why do some actors compel our attention on the screen while others never catch our imaginations? What makes film acting different from acting on stage or TV? This book is a guide designed for actors already working in film, for those who want to, as well as for directors, teachers and anyone interested in film acting. The majority of young actors have ambitions to succeed in the motion picture industry. But how do you do it? The author uses her wide experience as an acting and voice coach on major movies to offer insights into the film acting process. She provides tasks, techniques and tips that are designed specifically for film - there's advice to make the first-time film actor feel at home on set, tips on the casting process, how to cope with auditions, on-camera techniques, schedules and shooting order, as well as specific advice from film crews to help an actor's performance. This practical workbook combines exercises and anecdotes in an informal and accessible style, making it a useful guide for anyone wishing to light up the silver screen.

Genres: Nonfiction

280 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 2003

About the author

Mel is an acting and voice coach and dialogue coach on films. She has worked with many actors including Angelina Jolie, Keira Knightley, Daniel Craig, Gerard Butler, Michelle Yeoh, Jet Li, Clive Owen and Milla Jovovich. Full details can be found on www.melchurcher.com and Imdb.com
Mel is author of 'Acting for Film: Truth 24 Times a Second' Virgin Books/ Random House and 'A Screen Acting Workshop + DVD' published Nick Hern Books.
Her blog is on www.24timesasecond.com

Reviews

[Rita Stone · Rating 3 out of 5]

A great resource book to accompany training for an actor, or to revise acting technique principles if you feel a bit rusty. I've only glossed over the second section as I'm not currently working in film or tv but it is earmarked to be my first go-to resource book as soon as I am. Great to have a set of guidelines for the craft of working in front of a camera; they don't often give you this at drama school.

[Donna · Rating 2 out of 5]

Includes some interesting methods, but acting is something that should be learned by doing rather than by studying a textbook.

[Pippi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent acting advice for screen acting (all acting!) from top coach! Looking forward to her new book.