How can Stunt and Action Actors improve Authenticity in their performances?

We have all seen a movie where an actor breaks the moment and the magic is gone. Even the pro's get it wrong. Sometimes it is subtle, a fascial expression didn't match the moment, the body language was wrong for the emotions portrayed, or perhaps you just couldn't see it in their eyes and 'believe'.  A common issue we often see is that talented people initially struggle to blend both the physicality of an Action performance with the ability to really 'act' the character and what they would actually be experiencing and expressing.   Don't worry stunt family, we've got you! Here's a short guide and some activities anyone can try to  aid greater authenticity in their actions and reactions.  Read on for tips...

Action sequences in film can be some of the most thrilling and captivating moments for audiences. They require intense physical and emotional engagement from the actors, and the ability to convincingly portray emotions like fear, determination, and anger is essential for creating an authentic and engaging experience for viewers. In this article, we will discuss how actors can improve their reactions and authenticity in action sequences, including how to develop their ability to show different emotions.

1. Study the script and the character
   The first step to delivering an authentic and compelling performance in action sequences is to thoroughly understand the character you are portraying and the context of the scene. Take the time to read the script and study the character's backstory, motivations, and personality traits. This will help you to understand how your character would react in different situations and to different stimuli, which is crucial for delivering believable and authentic emotions.
   
   
2. Train physically, with authenticity, to develop emotional memory
   Action sequences often require intense physical exertion, so it is important for actors to be in good physical condition. Training in martial arts, gymnastics, or other physical disciplines can help actors to develop the strength, agility, and coordination needed to perform stunts and fight choreography safely and convincingly. The more authentic your training is to the role / scenario, the more you will onboard the ability to authentically deliver the character 'in that moment', because your mind and body have experienced or tasted what its really like. This is a great way to enable you to develop the connections to the moods, feelings, emotions and authentic reactions. This really aids improvisation which is vital to aiding authenticity as you deliver your role. 
   
   Famously, on Saving Private Ryan, the actors experienced the misery of what their characters went through before filming even began, to aid their connection and enhance their performances.  Matt Damon was even seperated from the rest and given a better treatment so on set the actors would already feel some animosity based on what they had already experienced!
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3. Practice emotional preparation
   To convincingly portray emotions like fear, determination, and anger, actors need to be able to tap into their own emotions and experiences. This requires emotional preparation, which involves connecting with the emotions of the character and the scene. This can be done through various techniques, such as sensory exercises, emotional memory, and improvisation.
   
   
4. Use body language
   In action sequences, body language is key to conveying emotions authentically. Actors should pay attention to their posture, facial expressions, and movements, and use these to convey the emotions of their character. For example, a tense posture and narrowed eyes can convey fear, while a straight spine and clenched fists can convey determination or anger.
   
   
5. Stay present in the moment
   When performing in action sequences, it is important for actors to stay present in the moment and react authentically to what is happening around them. This requires focus and concentration, and the ability to respond spontaneously to the actions of other actors and the environment.
   
   
6. Be open to direction and feedback
   Finally, actors should be open to direction and feedback from their director, stunt coordinator, and fellow actors. Acting is a collaborative process, and feedback and guidance can help actors to refine their performances and deliver a more convincing and authentic portrayal of their character's emotions.

Delivering convincing and authentic performances in action sequences requires physical and emotional preparation, technical training, and a willingness to collaborate with others. By following these tips, actors can develop their ability to show fear, determination, anger, and other emotions commonly needed in action sequences, and deliver compelling and memorable performances that captivate audiences.

Here's Recommended Sensory Exercises you could explore and try out today!

​Sensory exercises are techniques used by actors to connect with their senses and emotions in order to deliver a more authentic and nuanced performance. Here are some examples of sensory exercises that actors can use to develop their ability to portray emotions in action sequences:

1. Five senses exercise
   This exercise involves focusing on each of the five senses - sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell - and imagining how your character would experience them in a particular situation. For example, if your character is afraid, you might imagine the sound of their heart racing, the taste of sweat in their mouth, or the sensation of their hair standing on end.
   
   
2. Emotional recall
   This exercise involves recalling a personal experience that evokes a particular emotion and using that emotional memory to inform your performance. For example, if your character is angry, you might recall a time when you felt intense anger and use that experience to inform your body language, vocal tone, and facial expressions.
   
   
3. Object work
   This exercise involves using objects as a way to connect with your senses and emotions. For example, if your character is determined, you might use a heavy object like a weight to physically represent that determination, focusing on the sensation of the weight in your hands and the effort required to lift it.
   
   
4. Breath work
   This exercise involves using your breath to connect with your emotions and stay grounded in the moment. For example, if your character is afraid, you might focus on taking shallow, rapid breaths to simulate the feeling of panic.
   
   
5. Movement improvisation
   This exercise involves using movement to explore different emotions and physical sensations. For example, if your character is angry, you might experiment with different ways of punching or kicking to find a movement that feels authentic and expressive.
   
   

These are just a few examples of the many sensory exercises that actors can use to develop their ability to portray emotions in action sequences. The key is to experiment with different techniques and find what works best for you and your character.

Recommended Emotional Memory exercises you can use to rapidly improve!

​Emotional memory is a technique used by actors to connect with their own personal experiences and emotions and use them to inform their performances. Here are some tips for actors to better understand and develop emotional memory:

1. Understand the concept
   Emotional memory involves recalling a personal experience that evokes a particular emotion and using that emotional memory to inform your performance. It is important to understand that emotional memory is not about recreating the specific details of the experience, but rather using the emotions and sensations of the experience to create a more authentic and nuanced performance.
   
   
2. Start with simple emotions
   To start developing your emotional memory, begin with simple emotions like joy, sadness, or anger. Recall a personal experience that evokes that emotion and focus on the sensations and emotions you felt during that experience.
   
   
3. Build on personal experiences
   As you become more comfortable with emotional memory, you can start to use more complex emotions and experiences to inform your performances. For example, if your character is experiencing grief, you might recall a personal experience of loss and use that emotional memory to inform your performance.
   
   
4. Use sensory details
   When recalling emotional memories, focus on the sensory details of the experience, such as the sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and physical sensations associated with the experience. This will help you to create a more vivid and authentic performance.
   
   
5. Practice regularly
   Like any skill, emotional memory requires practice to develop. Set aside time each day to practice recalling personal experiences and connecting with the emotions and sensations associated with them.
   
   
6. Seek guidance
   If you are struggling to develop your emotional memory, consider seeking guidance from an acting coach or teacher who can provide feedback and guidance on techniques to improve your performance.
   
   

Overall, emotional memory is a powerful tool that can help actors to create more authentic and nuanced performances. By focusing on personal experiences and using sensory details to connect with emotions, actors can develop their ability to portray a wide range of emotions in action sequences and other performance settings.

There's a whole bunch of useful tips, tricks and terms you can look up to research further, all to help you increase authenticity in your performances on stage and screen.