Since written drama
begins when a specific central conflict confronts its characters and a progression of
greater tension of that conflict ensues, we realize that the central
characters are on a journey of
discovery. I think that in order to keep that journey of discovery
alive, the characters’ actions need to
remain fluid, indeterminate, throughout the rising action.
Therefore, if, either through interpretation,
whim, or a misguided desire to express emotion,
the actor chooses instead to conclusively
state the character’s point
of view, the actor has
blocked the rising action. I don’t
think it’s an exaggeration to say that whenever that occurs, the
story awkwardly begins again.
Consider the performances of the same material by two very talented actors: In one, Jeremy Irons expressed the character's ideas unequivocally, whereas Rex Harrison allowed himself to be frustrated, agitated, curious.
After all, Liza had already intruded in Professor Higgins' life, made an impression, and now Professor Higgins must deal with his confusion, not his certainty -- or the story must end there -- just boot her out; but he doesn't do that, does he?
No comments:
Post a Comment