Last week we had a special guest director, screenwriter and actor Tom McCarthy visit us for a Q+A about acting, auditions, and the business. He revealed some truly helpful acting lessons.
He gave beautiful insight into what he looks for in the audition room. Described how he rehearses, and how his directing process helps get actors of all stripes more present on set. Revealed how the movie stars, as well as the day players, all must work from presence for the film he is directing to come to life. You can see this aliveness in all of Tom’s films from The Station Agent to Spotlight, for which he won the Oscar for Best Picture.
Among his various acting lessons, Tom shared the below advice during a private Q+A for people enrolled in our current courses (upcoming course info here). We had to share one of the pieces of wisdom he dropped, about creating a character, with you too.
Cause it’s SO GOOD.
Academy Award-winning filmmaker Tom McCarthy’s advice on creating a character!
Some actors reach beyond the character in an effort to create something that’s really not necessary. It’s there within them already, within their human experience, and within the character, if they trust that. Sometimes that trust in doing less, in being present and being simple, that’s what I see in the more experienced actors. The ability to do that… the ability to just have the confidence to create from who you are. That’s gold.
Sound familiar? So many actors and entrepreneurs don’t trust themselves enough to do less. And, it really works against us during important auditions and on set.
In our 4-Week Character Lab, we show you how to unearth parts of yourself that already exist to help you increase your range when creating a character. Using the Committed Impulse tools of Inner Atomics and Sub-personality work, you’ll increase your awareness of and tolerance for the full spectrum of you. Then you can unleash your true essence and give the audience what they’re craving.
The reason that we push so hard when we’re acting or presenting is that we think ‘I’m not good enough.’ I’ve got news for you bubbie, that’s just not true.
You’re THE BEST at being you and bringing the full you to the table.
NO ONE can do it better.
You are amazing, so, here’s a 6-part CI practice to help you recognize that you are indeed enough, Now.
Be well, friends!
Virtual, socially-distanced, hug to ya,
Josh
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