Pleased to see that Self Made was chosen to be screened as part of the International Showcase in Los Angeles.
Archive for the ‘Acting’ Category
April 21, 2011
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Another Year.
By Ash in Acting, Art, Film
The latest film from Mike Leigh focuses on the complexity of family, human relationships, and life all brought to life by his story and cast. Another Year features an outstanding performance from Lesley Manville whose performance I was utterly bewitched by. How she lost out to Helena Bonham Carter at the BAFTAs is beyond me. I guess The King’s Speech just had the extra public momentum behind it.
But, much like Archipelago, Another Year moves slowly, but persistently. In some ways, Another Year is very much a thriller: it’s certainly thrilling to watch. Perhaps this is down to Leigh’s approach to character development and the incorporation of lengthy improvisation sessions.
“You start with nothing,” Manville said. “Over time we create characters. Initially it’s a one-on-one thing. You sit down with Mike and talk about the sort of character you’re interested in. You create a back story, a history. The thing about working with Mike is that he’s not just employing you, you’re not reading a script. My character, Mary, is as much my creation as Mike’s. He’s steering and guiding, but a lot is being asked of you as an actor. It’s very creative, very collaborative.”
That sounds similar to the work we did on Self Made, which is perhaps part of the reason why I found the film so appealing. Regardless, it’s a film worthy of rewatching.
March 1, 2011
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March?
By Ash in Acting
Already? Well, it’s to be expected. The past month has been hectic. Class has taken up most of my time. I’ve been working on a scene from Willy Russell’s ‘Educating Rita’ (I play Frank, obviously). Again, it’s exhausting but enlivening and educational. Going to class each night after a full day’s work takes its toll, but not drinking is helping. My neurologist has allowed me the occasional half a lager. Can’t say I’m that bothered.
December 21, 2010
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Kiss Me Like A Stranger.
By Ash in Acting, Literature
This is a great, and short autobiography: I breezed through it in two days. Though Wilder could have dedicated more time to his early acting days, the reader should be satisfied with the brief insight into Wilder’s methodology. I’d no idea Wilder had worked with Lee Strasberg, or that he was one of only two actors accepted into the infamous Actor’s Studio one year. Strangely enough, the judging panel back then was X-Factor style. Wilder got two Yeses, and one No. The rejection came from Strasberg himself.
Wilder went on to perform on Broadway, work with Mel Brooks, and write great films as well as put in iconic performances. Wilder’s life is one that he celebrates, yet is marked with tragedy. It’s interesting to see how he explains his choices – and how he continually strives for a creative life.
Following two divorces, the death of a wife and his own battle with cancer, it’s amazing to think that the man is still standing – still loving – still living a life within art.
Our doubts are traitors,and make us lose the good we oft might win by fearing to attempt.
‘Measure for Measure’, Act 1 scene 4
December 3, 2010
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War is over.
By Ash in Acting
So class is over for another year. How was it? It was revealing – again. I learned a lot from the scene work that went up; from the scene work I did; and – moreover – from the scene I failed to get up. That last element would take some explaining, and is more personal than I like to talk about here.
I am fully committed to taking class throughout 2011. I feel there’s been a change in my work, but there is much to do. I’ve been pondering if it’s worth applying for auditions etc. but I don’t feel ready yet. It’s all very well trying to swim at the deep end, but the water isn’t particularly inviting.