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Film & TV · MS elective · 3 credit hours · 16 sessions

Acting for Film & Film Analysis

This hybrid course combines practical performance training with critical film theory. Students will learn the specific techniques of screen acting—minimalism, eye lines, and continuity—while simultaneously analyzing legendary performances from cinema history. By studying the “Greats,” students gain a deeper understanding of how to craft a nuanced performance that withstands the scrutiny of the close-up lens.

§ 01 By the end you can
  1. Differentiate between stage acting (projection) and screen acting (internalization)
  2. Master technical skills: Hitting marks, cheating to camera, and continuity of action
  3. Analyze key acting methods (Stanislavski, Meisner, The Method) through film history
  4. Critique performances using professional terminology and cinematic context
  5. Deliver a believable, emotionally grounded performance in a filmed scene
§ 02 Sixteen sessions

The whole semester.

  1. 01Stage vs. Screen: The adjustment of scale
  2. 02Relaxation & Focus in a Chaotic Environment
  3. 03Analysis: The Silent Era & Physical Comedy
  4. 04The Camera Lens: Size of Shot = Size of Performance
  5. 05Subtext: Acting "Between the Lines"
  6. 06Analysis: The Golden Age & The Star System
  7. 07Hitting Marks & Blocking
  8. 08 · MidtermMidterm Examination
  9. 09Analysis: The "Method" Revolution (Brando/Dean)
  10. 10Technical Acting: Continuity & Props
  11. 11The Close-Up: Micro-expressions & Eyes
  12. 12Analysis: Contemporary Naturalism
  13. 13Audition Techniques: The Self-Tape
  14. 14Cold Reading & Improvisation
  15. 15Reacting & Listening on Camera
  16. 16Final Project: Filmed Scene & Critique

Midterm around session 8. Final project briefed at session 8 or 9 and developed in stages until the juries.

§ 03 Final project

Final Project: Filmed Scene & Critique

How it’s judged

Recommended reading
  1. Acting for the Camera by Tony Barr
  2. Respect for Acting by Uta Hagen
  3. Sanford Meisner on Acting by Sanford Meisner
  4. Audition by Michael Shurtleff
  5. Secrets of Screen Acting by Patrick Tucker
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