Many actors mistakenly think that all acting classes are the same, but they fail to realize that training for stage and training for screen are very different, and they develop very different skillsets. Strong, comprehensive training in acting technique is crucial, but beyond that, working in film or on TV requires specific training and a knowledge of working on-camera.

THE NEW YORK ACTING SCHOOLFOR FILM AND TV www.actingclassforfilm.com BY MARK STOLZENBERG Question: I have heard the expression, “the moment before” when I am acting for film. What is that? Answer: The moment before is what is going on right before you speak. Creating your moment before gives you a springboard that catapults you into the scene. When the director says, “Action” he or she should be interrupting you in the middle of a situation. Don’t start on "Action". Give your

THE NEW YORK ACTING SCHOOLFOR FILM AND TV www.actingclassforfilm.com BY MARK STOLZENBERG Question: How do I handle an extended close-up of me when I am not speaking? Answer: This is usually referred to as a REACTION SHOT and can be the most important thing you do in a film. Do not indicate or show what you are thinking or feeling, just let the camera find you in the situation. Observe, think and feel very specific images, relevant to the scene. The camera will read your mind

THE NEW YORK ACTING SCHOOLFOR FILM AND TV www.actingclassforfilm.com BY MARK STOLZENBERG Question: Do I have to memorize my lines for acting auditions? Answer: No. Most casting directors state that you do not have to memorize your lines. I recently was cast in a feature film that ended up at the Academy Awards (“ If I Had Legs I’d Kick You”). I used a printed out version of the script at my call back. Print out your sides on paper. Do not use your cell phone! This gives you a

THE NEW YORK ACTING SCHOOL FOR FILM AND TV www.actingclassforfilm.com BY MARK STOLZENBERG Question: How do I create a character for a film I’m auditioning for? Answer: Creating a character is a complex process which requires a detailed discussion, but you can start out by asking, “How am I like the character in the script?” and “ How am I different?” If you are very similar to the character in the script you can be yourself, but if you are very different from the character in

THE NEW YORK ACTING SCHOOL FOR FILM AND TV www.actingclassforfilm.com BY MARK STOLZENBERG QUESTION: If I have an acting callback, should I change my performance to try to make it better? ANSWER: NO! Do exactly what you did for your initial audition. You should also dress the same so they recognize you. You received a callback because they really liked what you did so give them the same performance. Only change your performance if the CASTING DIRECTOR asks you to specifically