-modified%20(1).png)
By Faith Hibbs-Clark, CD 20+ years, founder of The Acting Science Methodâ„¢
In film acting, continuity is the idea that all shots in a scene should have the same physical moments. This includes repeating actions, like blocking, gestures, and prop work, in the same order and the same spot. It also includes maintaining consistency in a character's physical attributes, like their costume, hairstyle, and makeup, throughout a scene or production.
Audition continuity involves maintaining consistent eyelines, expressions, emotional reactions, body language, and styles between audition takes. In other words, actors need to know and be able to recreate audition performances on demand. Equally important is the ability to change something on a redirect. The Importance of Continuity in Film Auditions: Mastering the Art of Repetition
As actors, the ability to replicate a good performance is often what sets apart the good from the great. Picture this: you send in a self-tape with a captivating opening line that leaves the director in awe, and in the virtual callback the director requests you repeat what you did. Can you recreate the magic on demand? Do you even remember what you did?
Unlocking the Magic: The Power of Continuity
Sometimes, actors stumble upon moments of brilliance—those magical instances where everything aligns perfectly, delivering a performance that resonates deeply. I call these "happy accidents." However, the true art lies in being able to replicate that brilliance consistently. Directors may commend your work and ask for a repeat performance, expecting the same level of excellence each time.
Control Over Your Craft: The Key to Success
Being in control of your instrument and method is essential for maintaining continuity in your acting. Understanding how you achieved a particular performance allows you to reproduce it with precision. While "happy accidents", can lead to remarkable outcomes, relying solely on chance hinders your ability to recreate those standout moments when required.
The Director's Request: A Test of Skill on Set
Imagine the director praises your delivery and requests a repeat performance due to technical reasons like the quintessential boom mic in the shot. This moment tests your ability to recall and reproduce the nuances of your initial performance. With a clear understanding of your craft and process, you can confidently recreate the magic, ensuring consistency and professionalism on set.
Striving for Perfection: Embracing the Challenge
When faced with the task of repeating a specific line or moment, actors must rise to the challenge with focus and determination. Continuity is not just about matching actions—it's about embodying the character, maintaining the same emotional depth, and delivering a performance that aligns seamlessly with the director's vision.
Your Mission: Mastering Continuity
As you embark on your journey to enhance continuity in your auditions, remember the importance of precision and consistency. Practice recalling your standout moments, replicating key elements, and honing your ability to deliver a performance with unwavering continuity. By mastering this skill, you elevate your audition superpowers and demonstrate your readiness for the demands of film and television sets.
Take the Next Step: Elevate Your Audition Game
Ready to sharpen your continuity skills and excel in film auditions? Join us for the Film Auditioning Weekend Intensive, where you'll dive deep into the the Acting Science Methodâ„¢ which is a method that puts you in control.
Remember, every audition is an opportunity to communicate not just with words but with your body language. Embrace the art of storytelling, connect with your audience in a grounded way, and let your performance neural couple with the true decision maker. Through the power of The Acting Science Methodâ„¢, your success is limitless!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Faith is a body language expert who specialized in deception detection before becoming a casting director and working in the film industry for over 25 years. She is the founder of the Communication Method for Actors, LLC & the creator of the Acting Science Method â„¢. www.cmfatraining.comÂ
-- Special thanks to Angela Clark for the adorable graphics
© 2019- This information is copyrighted, TM'd, and protected by law. Do not reproduce in any capacity without the express written permission from Communication Method for Actors, LLC.
What is your learning style? Pick the right workshop for your needs.
Best for actors who need fast results but who have limited time.
Film Auditioning Weekend Intensive.
Best for those who want more time and resources with more personalized attention.
Film Auditioning 6-week Immersion
Best for those who need one-on-one personalized attention and feedback at a time that suits you.
What are working actors saying?
What Casting is saying!
What are celebrities saying?
Comments