Rehearsing with Your Actors
by Carol Schumaker

Being an DVX100 independent filmmaker usually means that we have no movie production budget. That's why maximizing our film production value and resources is a necessity. We have to get creative and be a bunch of MacGyvers (ooops...just gave away my age bracket)! And, like many cheapo productions, we have to wear many hats and take what we can get - from borrowed equipment to so-so actors. Aaaah yes...actors.

Anyone in the independent mini-dv movie production circuit knows just how hard it is to find decent talent while working with no movie production budget. I'm not even talking good talent...I'm talking DECENT talent. And it gets frustrating for the actors as well because just like anyone else who possesses a trait, they'd like to be compensated for their skills even on a DVX 100 video production. And rightfully so, of course. So working with what you have is proven to be one of any filmmaker's main attributes. the trick is making it work for you in the best way possible.

In my experience with non-trained first-time actors, I've noticed a couple of things: 

First, they need to feel comfortable. Second, they need direction.

So, it's up to you as a digital independent filmmaker or director to be the best you can be so you can help guide these aspiring actors into bringing out their best performance possible for your digital movie.

Feeling Comfortable

Give them incentive! Whether your actors stem from the local community college theater, high-school drama class, craigslist posting (in the 'gigs' section) or even your forced little brother or sister to help, you've gotta show them that you respect them for being there. Let them know that you are grateful for their contribution to your DVX movie. Because without them, you'll have no movie production. 

Not to mention that a lot of times in no-budget film productions, the actors won't get paid with money - they'll do it for the practice or just receive credit with meals and a copy of the finished project for their demo reel. Every once in a while an actor will get lucky to get paid or even be offered a percentage of ownership of the digital film instead of cash upfront (ala the Indigent Films pay model).

Because your actors may be starting out, keep in mind that in many independent film productions the talent might need to get through the initial shyness of being around a movie production environment even if it is a low-budget digital film.

Remember, they can't see your project through your eyes, so you have to reassure them of your vision and get them motivated! 

There's a good chance that because they'll feel strange and unusual being in front of the DVX100 even though it's a such an inconspicuous digital camera. Chances are good that they'll have a lot of questions. Take your time and answer them. Even if the questions seems to be miniscule and self-explanatory to you, for them it's a new experience. Once you establish this relationship with your actor, they'll begin to warm up and feel more comfortable.

Another thing to keep in mind is minimize the amount of people on your movie production set as much as possible. For new actors, the more intimate the setting, the less obtrusive it is to their comfort level.

Most importantly, to help build the confidence and comfort of your amateur talent, rehearse their scene like crazy! Go over the dialogue with them again and again, until they feel ready. Make sure to rehearse the blocking of their scene as well and better yet, rehearse in front of the DVX 100 to break the ice. One thing that usually goes overlooked on low budget films is the blocking (the movements and placement of an actor during a scene). A lot of the times, they won't know what to do with themselves or where to go until you tell them. That's where your direction has to be at its best.

Direction

On many digital movie productions, there will be tons of questions. When should they hit their mark? During what line do they pour the coffee? These are the types of things that not too many new filmmakers consider. It's important because it helps to keep continuity and keeps the scene looking natural. So be sure to set marks for your actors and rehearse them until they're ready. 

Have your actors repeat the exact same movement with each take! 

Otherwise, their movements will not match up when editing the different camera angles. 

It also helps for you as the director of the film to go through the physical motions and dialogue to show your actor the type of performance you want from them. Non-trained actors will need your direction!

Many times when you're going for a certain expression or emotion, amateur talent may feel like they're showing it, but on camera it just won't be happening. For example, the actor that's always smiling may not be aware that he's smiling. to him, it feels as if he's looking straight-faced.

In these cases, just direct your actors to exaggerate their facial expressions until it comes through. So for the guy that keeps smiling, ask him for an angry expression and it might come out looking straight-faced, just like you wanted.

When working with actors on an independent digital movie, just remember...they're looking to YOU for direction. Actors need to know what is expected from them in each scene - from delivery of dialogue to their mark placement - so be sure to give them your best and they'll give you theirs in return. Good luck!

Do YOU have a cheap, low budget, do-it-yourself DVX100 tip or trick that you'd like to contribute?
If so, just email it to us and we'll post it up!

Thanks for helping the grass roots grow!