The world of on-camera acting is extensive, but many aspiring actors may not understand how different performances in movies and television can be. While both mediums rely on strong storytelling skills, recognizing their unique characteristics can be crucial for landing roles and sustaining a career. Let’s explore the key differences between acting in movies and television and how you can adapt your performance for each.
1. Performance Size: How Big or Small Should You Go?
Film: The Art of Subtlety
Film acting is all about nuance. Since movies are often shot with high-quality cameras capable of capturing even the smallest facial movements, actors must dial down their performances. Micro-expressions—like a slight eye shift or a barely noticeable smirk—can carry significant emotional weight. Overacting in film can quickly feel unnatural and exaggerated.
Example:
Think of Joaquin Phoenix’s performance in Joker (2019). His character’s inner turmoil is conveyed through micro-expressions, restrained body language, and careful eye movements. The camera picks up on these tiny details, making his performance deeply affecting.
TV: Clear, Concise, and Slightly Bigger
Television acting generally requires a more defined performance, especially for network and sitcom-style shows. Since TV is often viewed on smaller screens and episodes move at a faster pace, emotions need to be clearer. That doesn’t mean overacting, but expressions and body language should be slightly more pronounced.
Example:
In Breaking Bad (2008–2013), Bryan Cranston balances film-like subtlety with slightly more pronounced reactions—ensuring his performance reads well, whether watched on a phone or a big-screen TV.
2. Camera Work & Framing: Understanding Your Space
Film: More Time, More Variety
Movies are shot with diverse framing techniques, from extreme close-ups to wide shots. Since filmmakers have more time per scene, directors and cinematographers carefully craft compositions, meaning actors must adapt their performances to different shot sizes.
Example:
A long, silent close-up in Marriage Story (2019) captures Adam Driver’s character processing intense emotions. His performance remains restrained, knowing the camera will do the heavy lifting.
TV: Efficiency is Key
TV shows have tighter shooting schedules, so they rely on faster setups with consistent framing. Close-ups, mid-shots, and over-the-shoulder shots dominate most scenes. Actors must remain aware of these setups and ensure their performance reads clearly from standard TV framing.
Example:
Sitcoms like Brooklyn Nine-Nine (2013–2021) use medium shots and close-ups that require actors to keep energy levels up and reactions clear for comedic timing.
3. Pacing & Energy: The Speed of Storytelling
Film: Slow Burn Storytelling
Movies unfold over one continuous narrative arc, allowing actors time to develop characters gradually. Many scenes have long pauses or silences, letting emotions simmer beneath the surface.
Example:
In Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019), Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt let moments breathe, creating a relaxed, immersive storytelling experience.
TV: Fast-Paced and Immediate
Television actors must deliver clear character choices quickly, often within the first few episodes. With episodes running between 22 to 60 minutes, performances need to grab attention fast. This is especially true in episodic TV, where characters face new conflicts in every episode.
Example:
In The Bear (2022–present), Jeremy Allen White’s performance is fast-paced and intense, matching the show’s rapid-fire dialogue and chaotic environment.
4. Character Development: Short vs. Long-Term Growth
Film: A Self-Contained Journey
A movie’s script provides a full arc from start to finish, meaning actors must craft their performance with a clear beginning, middle, and end in just a few hours. Character transformations are often dramatic and complete.
Example:
Lady Gaga in A Star Is Born (2018) evolves from a shy artist to a confident star in a single film, requiring clear emotional shifts in a limited runtime.
TV: Evolution Over Time
TV characters grow and change over multiple episodes, sometimes over the years. Actors must play the long game, leaving room for gradual transformation while maintaining consistency.
Example:
Sarah Snook’s portrayal of Shiv Roy in Succession (2018–2023) shifts subtly over seasons, making her transformation more complex and layered.
5. Acting for Different TV Formats
Not all TV acting is the same. Understanding different formats can help you adjust your performance:
Sitcoms (Multi-Cam): Performances are larger, similar to theater. Timing is everything. (Example: Friends)
Single-Cam Comedies/Dramas: More naturalistic, blending film and TV styles. (Example: The Office)
Procedurals: Clear, consistent performances that fit a familiar formula. (Example: Law & Order: SVU)
Prestige Dramas: Cinematic storytelling requiring a balance of TV energy and film subtlety. (Example: The Last of Us)
6. Auditioning: What Casting Directors Expect
Film Auditions:
Casting directors look for emotional depth and subtlety.
Self-tapes may require close-up work, so small facial shifts matter.
Be prepared to do multiple takes with different emotional colors.
TV Auditions:
More energy and clarity in delivery.
Consistency is key—casting directors need to know your performance fits the show’s tone.
Be ready for fast callbacks and adjustments.
Final Takeaway: Adaptability is Key
The best actors can adjust their performances based on the medium. If you’re transitioning from TV to film, work on subtlety and internal storytelling. If moving into TV, make sure your emotions are clear and your pacing aligns with the show’s rhythm. By understanding these subtle differences, you can master both mediums and create a lasting career in on-camera acting.
Want to sharpen your on-camera skills? Book a session with a professional coach and get personalized feedback on your performance!
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