Most “experts” who talk about actors “making choices” haven’t a clue what a “choice” actually is, nor how to properly compose and execute one. This is true both in the audition room and on set. Casting directors and film/TV directors will often tell actors to “make a stronger choice” not really knowing what exactly they mean by that. Essentially they’re saying, “Show me something I like better.” I often see this in instructions for actors for submitting a taped audition. It’s one of those hot button terms—“making a choice”—but ask that “expert” to demonstrate what the hell they’re talking about, and watch most them start to squirm and filibuster their way through an answer.
Rule #1 Is Always the SameDon’t guess what they are looking for! Assume you are who they’re looking for, and bring yourself to the role with a brave, fun, and impactful choice. This means it is your right and responsibility to always do “your version” of the character—how you see it. It means relentlessly looking for ways to find what being this character means to you. This does not mean that you’re
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