Ask Judith: Submission #17

Name: Robert
Email (optional): memorare.members@gmail.com
Question:
Dear Judith,

I have an idea I'd like to ask your opinion on. In the case of a love story in which the actor can't work well off his love interest leading lady, what if we brought in his wife or loved one to stand beside the camera so he could deliver his lines with sincere affection?

Thanks so much!

Reply:
Hello Robert. Thanks for your question. Usually actors do this kind of work -- it's often called "substitution" -- via their own imaginations. You could ask the actor if he thinks this tactic might be worth trying. But, to be honest, the most helpful thing would be to have cast actors who are responsive to each other. If it's too late for that, I would take each actor aside and tell them frankly there is a problem in their connection, and that it needs to be resolved in order for the story to work. I don't quite understand an actor who say he "can't work well off his love interest leading lady" -- if he took the role, that's his job. You may need to tell him, tactfully but firmly, that you need him to step up. Best wishes, Judith

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