Discover the secrets actors use to tap into emotions and produce tears convincingly.
Understanding Emotional Expression: Emotions are a fundamental aspect of human existence, and crying is a unique form of emotional expression. It bridges social connections and extends beyond infancy, remaining a powerful means of conveying feelings throughout life. Whether tears of joy, sorrow, or empathy, the act of crying holds a special place in human communication.
Unlocking the Art of Crying On Demand: For actors and those seeking to express genuine emotion, the ability to cry on command is a valuable skill. According to Charlie Sandlan, the Artistic Director and Master Teacher of Acting at the Maggie Flanigan Studio in New York City, the process of producing real tears starts with the imagination. Sandlan follows the principles of the Meisner technique, emphasizing the importance of “Acting is living truthfully under imaginary circumstances.”
To evoke genuine emotion, begin by daydreaming about something deeply affecting, even if it hasn’t happened to you personally. Identify your emotional triggers—the experiences that elicit strong reactions from you. In a daydream, you can engage with these emotions, harnessing them for future performances. Sandlan underscores the value of emotional accessibility, as practice allows actors to seamlessly tap into these feelings, potentially leading to real tears.
However, it’s crucial not to force tears. Authenticity takes precedence over mere display. Effective actors understand that it’s the quality, not the quantity, of emotional expression that truly resonates with audiences. It’s about portraying real emotions, not crocodile tears.
Balancing Emotional Intensity: Distinguishing between authentic emotional breakdowns and staged performances is essential. Acting should be aesthetically pleasing and comprehensible. The most compelling moments often occur when actors portray the struggle to restrain their emotions, ultimately succumbing to them. The delicate balance lies in conveying raw, real emotion without overwhelming the audience.
Insights from the Pros: While some actors may employ makeup tricks or physical techniques like eye drops or irritants to induce tears, the most accomplished actors rely on their deep understanding of emotions. Acting legend Cate Blanchett, for instance, can effortlessly convey powerful emotions. Director Todd Field praised her performance in TÁR, highlighting how she fully embodied her character, resulting in a genuine emotional release. Actors like Timothée Chalamet, Sarah Paulson, and Jason Bateman exemplify this natural approach, seamlessly immersing themselves in their roles through thorough preparation.
Crying Techniques for Everyone: Even non-actors can learn from acting techniques to explore emotional release. For those struggling with emotional expression, here are some steps to consider:
- Embrace Emotions: Shed societal stigmas and embrace emotions without judgment or embarrassment. Understand that emotional release is a healthy human experience.
- Breathing and Relaxation: Practice deep breathing, relaxation techniques, and focus on softening the mouth and jaw.
- Develop Empathy: Cultivate empathy by actively listening to others and putting yourself in their shoes. Empathetic individuals are more likely to experience emotional responses to human distress.
- Controlled Emotional Release: Remember that emotional release and crying are not always synonymous. Tears may only feel beneficial afterward when you are in a controlled environment or emotional state.
Embracing the Human Condition: In essence, emotional expression is an integral part of the human experience. Whether actors seeking authenticity in their performances or individuals navigating life’s emotional landscape, understanding and embracing emotions can lead to more profound connections and greater personal growth.