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Question: Acting Help/Tips Please (Facial Expresion-Confusion)!? !?
I am having trouble with my acting again!. I understand all that I have been told about being passionate about the part I am playing (being the character) but my facial expression is bugging me!.

Since I have been doin theater since 3rd grade I feel as though everything still has to be exagerated (facially)!. But then when I tone it down a bit for the camera it feels too toned down (and mixed- hence I'm not even sure, myself of what I am playing)!.

HELP!? Anyone!?

PS-
Do you always have to be doing something with your eyes!?Www@QuestionHome@Com


Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:
This is a tough question, and unfortunately, will have a different answer each time you are employed!. Sometimes a script will ask for a bit more animation, and sometimes it will be inappropriate, depending on the script, mood of the piece and the director's impressions!. My advice would be to discuss it with your director, if you can!.!.!.find out exactly what kind of tone he is looking for with the piece!. If he says he is looking for a gritty, toned-down realism, that should help with a direction!. also, don't be afraid of asking the director what they thought of your character choice, or showing them two different directions and having them choose!. Oftentimes, the way we perceive our own performance and the actual presentation are completely different!. Trust in an outside source, like the director, a coach, or a friend with acting training/experience!.

I'm not sure about the "eyes" question, although Michael Caine is a firm believer of never blinking to heighten drama!. Take that for what you will!. ;) Chances are, if you are thinking about your eyes, you are not in the proper place for your character!.

Good luck!Www@QuestionHome@Com

(If you have a script/ piece of writing) Read it over and mark the beat changes!. Figure out which emotion is with which beat change!. Picture the person talking, and how their face would look if it was real!. You don't always have to do anything with your eyes, but sometimes if you don't you look kind of lifeless!.Www@QuestionHome@Com