Actor

The role of an actor is to interpret the character of a script and bring it to screen. Changing technology in the film industry has meant that actors now more than ever must be trained in technical areas as well as performance. Often actors with theatre backgrounds find it hard to make a transition to film because in theatre the ‘act’ must move a live audience, whereas in film, projecting voice and attracting the attention of a live audience is not required. Training for camera is a lot different to the environment of theatre, so understanding the technical aspects combined with performance is what makes an actor successful.

British actors like Jude Law, Dame Judi Dench and Kenneth Brannagh are all well trained in performance, but they also understand the technical aspects of film production from acting in a green screen environment to working with stand-ins (not necessarily acting with other physical people in the room). With the environment of a set, you are often faced with limited movements, strange camera set ups, and even uncomfortable maneuvering to convey a scene. It’s all for the beauty of image, but it’s never easy. However this process is highly rewarding for people who want to perform an art not just for the stage, but for the cinema.

Actors must also be well trained in movement because being fluid with good stamina is part of the job. Long days on set and physical roles can take their toll. Top actors can sometimes be considered athletes because they keep their bodies in great shape.