FOR THE DURATION: Working with actors

This is the first film the director has made where 'direction' of 'actors' has been necessary.  However, the director had worked as a camera operator on a friend's PhD film project in 2014, and this provided some confidence, and a role model.  Also, the actors were friends that although not formally trained, were experienced performers in front of live audiences, as both had long careers as rock musicians.  The director spent a lot of time explaining the concept of the film before shooting, and both actors freely made suggestions as to how to develop their characters, particularly regarding their outward appearance.

On set, the director was keen to achieve naturalistic performances from the actors.  This was a challenge, as the actors tended to over-act.  This may have been because of their lack of experience in front of the camera, where all mannerisms tend to be amplified.  The director reflected on what he'd read about actors as 'models' (Bresson).  For the film to have its desired affect, the acting needed to be as believable as possible, and certainly not 'camp'.  The intention was to make a serious 'art' film, not a 'Hammer Horror'.

The director learnt a lot about how to get actors to do what is required for a shot to work, whilst minimising any conflict or disagreement.  An emotional engagement is required, and a level of trust.  Both of the actors in the film were familiar with the director's previous work, and consequently were compliant to requests to repeat scenes without lengthy discussion.  This was important as it enabled a lot of work to be done in a short space of time.