Behavior Vs. Lines

Sometimes actors forget about the importance of behavior. They focus on memorizing the lines rather than searching the lines for clues about action and for developing the character. The art of acting involves creating a character as a three dimensional human being. To help deepen their craft, every actor needs to learn the joy of observing and incorporating the complexities of human behavior into their work.

One of the toughest auditions in the world is for lifetime membership at The Actors Studio, which requires a 5 minute scene with two actors. In this time frame, actors are advised to spend about two minutes on dialogue and three minutes on behavior. The Actors Studio audition emphasizes the importance of showing a willingness to do the work—not just delivering a well-rehearsed scene, but conveying deep human truth and embodying the character fully.

People Watching

When Al Pacino was a young up and coming actor in New York City, he used to get on the subway with his actor friends and watch all of the amazing, diverse characters zipping uptown and downtown. Imagine if you will, the endless variety of unique and colorful characters that he must have observed. As a coach, I love when an actor begins to talk about how they are looking at people (and themselves) with a new set of eyes. Not sure what to do on a free Saturday or Sunday? Go down to Venice beach, or to Central Park if you’re in NYC and do some people watching. Make notes on some of the characters that you see. What are the unique and interesting things about their behavior? What does their behavior say about their circumstances or their vulnerability?

The Animal Exercise

The animal exercise reaches all the way back to Stanislavsky. This is not a theater game that some of you may have done in high school. When done in the pure and balanced way in which it was intended, it can help the actor find behavior for their character that is transformational and inspired. Luckily, we live in a time where great film actors have left behind a legacy of work that we can study and learn from.

Here are some great and classic examples to look for: Dustin Hoffman in “Midnight Cowboy” used a rat. Marlon Brando in “The Godfather” used a bulldog. Robert De Niro in “Raging Bull” used a crab.

When incorporated successfully, the animal should feel like an element of character providing the actor with unconventional behavior, rather than overpowering the actor’s performance. Susan Batson in her book, “TRUTH”, says the following: “Animal work frees you from the narrow limits of your own ordinary behavior and movement. It gives you a way to create wholly new behavior with which to define and individualize your character.” If you're an actor seeking authenticity in your work, understanding and artfully portraying behavior will truly set you apart.

All my best,

Greg Braun

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