As an actor, your ability to create a rich, layered character that resonates with audiences is paramount to your craft. When handed a new script, the choices you make will shape the character you bring to life. In this article, we’ll discuss a detailed approach to making informed character choices, helping you to develop a three-dimensional, believable persona for any role.
- Read the script multiple times
Start by reading the script thoroughly and repeatedly, to fully understand the story, your character’s place in it, and the relationships with other characters. Take notes on your initial impressions, the story arc, and any character details that jump out at you.
- Analyze your character
Once you have a firm grasp of the story, delve deeper into your character. Consider the following aspects:
a. Background: Identify the character’s upbringing, cultural background, family life, education, and any other details that may influence their perspective.
b. Motivation: Determine what drives your character. What are their goals, desires, and fears?
c. Relationships: Assess your character’s relationships with other characters. How do these interactions shape their behavior and choices?
d. Conflict: Identify internal and external conflicts that your character faces throughout the story.
- Develop a backstory
Flesh out your character by creating a detailed backstory. This may include past traumas, personal triumphs, significant relationships, and any other events that have shaped the character. A rich backstory will help you understand your character’s motivations and reactions in various situations.
- Choose a physicality
The way your character moves, stands, and gestures can convey a wealth of information. Consider their age, health, and emotional state when determining their physicality. Experiment with posture, facial expressions, and gestures to find the ones that best represent your character.
- Develop a vocal quality
A character’s voice can be a powerful tool for conveying emotion and intention. Experiment with pitch, tone, rhythm, and accent to find the vocal qualities that align with your character’s background and emotional state.
- Make strong and specific choices
When it comes to making choices for your character, be bold and specific. Your choices should be rooted in the character’s background, motivation, and emotional state. Use your analysis of the script and your character’s backstory to inform your decisions.
- Stay flexible and open to collaboration
Acting is a collaborative art, so it’s essential to remain open to input from your director and fellow actors. Be willing to revise and adapt your choices as you work through rehearsals and receive feedback.
- Trust your instincts
While it’s important to make informed decisions based on script analysis and character exploration, it’s also crucial to trust your instincts. Listen to your gut feelings and allow them to guide you in making choices that feel true to your character.
Many actors have made unusual, bold, or transformative choices in their portrayals of characters in films. Here are five notable examples:
- Heath Ledger as The Joker in “The Dark Knight” (2008) Heath Ledger’s iconic performance as The Joker was marked by his unique approach to the character. Ledger locked himself in a hotel room for a month to develop The Joker’s voice, physicality, and mannerisms. His portrayal was unsettling and intense, giving the character an unpredictable and chaotic energy that is now considered one of the greatest performances in film history.
- Charlize Theron as Aileen Wuornos in “Monster” (2003) Charlize Theron underwent a complete transformation for her role as Aileen Wuornos, a real-life serial killer. Theron gained weight, wore prosthetic teeth, and adopted a rough, unglamorous appearance to authentically portray the character. Her commitment to the role earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress.
- Daniel Day-Lewis as Christy Brown in “My Left Foot” (1989) Daniel Day-Lewis portrayed Christy Brown, an Irishman with cerebral palsy who could only control his left foot. Day-Lewis spent months learning to paint and write using his foot and insisted on staying in character even between takes. His dedication to the role earned him his first Academy Award for Best Actor.
- Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow in “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl” (2003) Johnny Depp’s eccentric portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow was inspired by a combination of rock legend Keith Richards and cartoon character Pepe Le Pew. Depp’s unique performance, complete with slurred speech, flamboyant gestures, and kohl-lined eyes, turned Captain Jack Sparrow into a beloved character and a pop culture icon.
- Jared Leto as Rayon in “Dallas Buyers Club” (2013) Jared Leto took on the role of Rayon, a transgender woman with HIV, and committed to the character by losing significant weight and dressing in women’s clothing even when he wasn’t on set. Leto’s performance was widely praised for its sensitivity and depth, earning him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
Conclusion
Making informed character choices is a critical aspect of developing a nuanced, believable performance. By thoroughly analyzing the script, developing a backstory, and experimenting with physicality and vocal qualities, you can bring depth and authenticity to any role. Remember to remain flexible, collaborate with your fellow artists, and trust your instincts as you navigate the exciting journey of character creation.
