Expert: Phil Nemy - 9/6/2006

Question
Dear Phil,

Hello!  I am wondering if stage acting is recomended as a good ramp up to film acting.  They seem so different, however, I notice there are many famous actors who began on stage.

Also, what is your favorite book on acting, and what book(s) would you recommend for becomming comfortable with acting on a film set.

Thank you,
Jill

Answer
Jill,

Thanks for writing. I absolutely believe that stage acting is a good ramp up for film acting. I believe that the foundation of all acting is acting on a stage in front of a live audience. Performing on a stage has been around for thousands of years. By develop your craft in the theatre, you have a basis from which to approach all forms of acting: film, TV, voice-overs, commercials, etc. In my humble opinion, the best actors are the ones with theatre training.

With respect to acting, I believe that the best book is actually a three-book set by Constantin Stanislavski: An Actor Prepares, Building a Character, and Creating a Role. These are considered by many to be the best resources ever created for an actor developing his/her craft for the theatre.

As far as film books, Michael Shurtleff's classic book AUDITION is great for preparing an actor for the tough world of auditions. But as far as a book about being comfortable on a film set, that's a new one on me. I'm not familiar with anything like that. You might check out Samuel French Bookstores website and see what they have. Or better yet, call Samuel French's bookstore on Sunset Blvd. in Los Angeles and ask them if they know of something in that area. The help there is very knowledgeable.

Hope this helps.

Phil