Film and Tv research

Information for the actors-


Good film and TV actors must always be focused and extremely aware, not only of their character, but of the 'audience' and the Studio location; including

• The camera
• Key lights
• Microphone
• space and frame sizes

Because a screen actor can realise the importance of props, costume, set, blocking business, character and other actors, but if they don't understand the relevance and importance of the camera and other technical attributes they still won't be able to give a successful performance.

One of the most important aspects is that TIME IS MONEY!- starting and stopping the camera wastes film and time, once an actor understands this the producer and the director will be much happier. If you make a mistake don't stop, simply forget about it, stay in character and start again, this will use less film than constantly stopping and starting. Once the filming is finished don't simply disappear, make sure the director know where you are and is happy with what you have done.

Micheal Caine

A good example of a talented film and TV actor is Micheal Caine- Norman Jewison an acclaimed director, producer and actor said "Micheal Caine is a movie star, but he's also a great actor. I can't say that about every movie star. It's the concentration he has"

see link for information- .http://www.michaelcaine.org/

The set

The set is a working environment designed for efficiency. The back generally faces bare walls with thick soundproofing, and electrical and grip equipment is stored around the edges. There is a lighting grid above, lights and key lights around. There are many people on set at any one time, so safety, being professional and communication is very important in this environment.

The crew

• DirectorDirector of Photography – lights the set and actors, and sometimes helps the director place the camera
• Assistant Director – Runs the set
•  Camera Operator and Focus Puller – operate the camera for different shots in the scene
• Boom Operator – operates the boom for the microphone(s)
• Sound Mixer – records and monitors sound
•  Continuity Person – documents ALL action that  needs to remain the
   same between takes and different shots
•  Make-up, Costume, Runners, etc
• Actors

Shooting calls

•  “Quiet on set!”
• Assistant Director – “We’re going for a take.  Roll on sound”
• Sound Person – “Sound rolling”
• Assistant Director – “Roll camera”
• Camera Technician - “Camera Rolling”
• Sound Technician – “Speed”
• Assistant Director – “Mark it”
•  Slate Person – “Scene 32, No God for the Sinner.  Take one”
• Director – “Action”

The Camera

•  TV and Film can be shot in a range of methods, from single camera to multi- camera. Cameras can be moved in a variety of ways during shots – hand held, on a dolly, Steadicam, crane – and the actor has to be aware of which camera they are performing to.
• 
  

  Usually a master shot of the scene will be filmed, followed by specific shots to be edited together in post production
• you are specifically directed to do so. 
  

  You must NEVER look directly at the camera during rehearsal or actual shooting, unless 
• You MUST develop a new and specific style of physical techniques for screen acting, and perform your part in rehearsals, EXACTLY as you will during the actual shoot, so that the crew can carry their roles out properly. 
•   You MUST  be aware of where the camera is at all times, AND aim to know  what type of shot will be filmed so that you can alter your acting technique  appropriately.
• You MUST aim to continue acting after the Director calls ‘CUT’. 

The microphone

•  Microphones are generally always placed on booms and held above the actors as they speak, rather than being fixed.
•  In film the sound and film are recorded separately and edited together.
• The microphones used in film are very sensitive, therefore you don't have to use some of the vocal techniques which you need in theatre, yet you must however develop a new vocal style for screen acting, and use this in rehearsals so the sound and boom operator know what they are doing during the actual shoot.
• You must be prepared to re-shoot at any time- sound issues often have to be resolved in pick-ups.

The key light

•  Several Key Lights are placed on stage to catch the actors expression in a shot.
• May be direct or indirect lighting.
• You MUST use your time during rehearsals to observe where key lights are focused and get used to hitting these marks.
• You MUST NOT stand in someone Else's key light, as you will cast a shadow on them.