Acting for film: Connecting with your scene partner

Preparation is crucial when it comes to performing for screen. This doesn't mean merely memorising the lines of dialogue, but instead delving deeply into the text and answering all possible questions that arise, without resorting to fabrication. For students who wish to try out screen acting, here are some key pieces of advice.

Central elements

When approaching a new text for screen I look for its pivotal moments and times when my character shifts its intentions significantly. I then identify recurring patterns of behaviour for my character and consider the ‘through-line’, meaning the thought processes that you can trace.

I suggest you really dig into the text; try to answer all the questions you can without making anything up. Look for important turning points in the plot and identify moments of strong changes in your character's intention. Begin by constructing a mental image or daydream envisioning how the scene may look with you in the role.

Collaborating

To genuinely connect with your scene partner it's imperative to rid yourself of self-consciousness. This means planning for all conceivable scenarios, and then, crucially, letting go of them. Clear your mind of these preconceptions completely.

In many ways, acting is akin to boxing or other combat sports. You train, master techniques, and anticipate all potential scenarios and outcomes before the bout. However, once the bell rings, you set these thoughts aside and direct your complete focus on your opponent, having confidence in your thorough preparation. If you're preoccupied with your own thoughts and intentions, you'll find yourself knocked down sooner than you’d expect.

Compose yourself in a similar fashion by mentally and physically preparing for the transition from reality to the fictional world of the scene. Carefully study the scenario, identifying your character's intention or action. Consider the mindset that accompanies the intention and ‘rehearse’ it. Speak aloud and improvise everything you might say if you were in a similar real-life situation, with the same intention. Fully embody this and give it physical expression. Practice until you can convey it non-verbally and internally within your thoughts.

Physical steps

On set prior to the start of a scene make eye contact with your partner, if possible. Always perceive your partner as themselves, not as the character. Apply the internal preparation you've practiced (avoid using the actual dialogue), just as boxers attempt to ‘psych’ each other out.

Focus your full attention on your partner and, on action, respond to whatever they throw at you, staying true to your intention and remaining wholeheartedly committed to achieving your desired outcome.

This process takes practice and great composure. Having a dependable preparation routine that helps you to concentrate and internalise your character's mindset is the key to staying ‘in the zone’ and delivering a sincere, committed performance. This approach will also enable you to gauge when you are truly connected with your partner and when you are not.

Additionally, this approach will prepare you for situations when your scene partner is absent and someone else is delivering their lines. You might find yourself acting opposite a tennis ball on a stick in front of a green screen, or in a casting session with an assistant reading lines with you.

When you think about it, we use this method every day. We mentally prepare for every task or event, but during them we strive to remain present to manage any unforeseen circumstances, while steering things towards our desired outcome. This applies to job interviews, negotiating for a raise, or asking someone out on a date – your imagination is your only limit.