Why Are Some Actors Referred to as Character Actors?

The term "character actor" can be a bit cryptic for those unfamiliar with the nuances of the film and television industry. Character actors are distinguished by their approach to the craft of acting, often taking on roles that are transformative and diverse. Unlike their counterparts, character actors are known for their ability to embody quirky, complex, or unconventional characters that enhance the overall narrative.

Key Differences: Role Type and Performance Style

Role Type - Character actors are typically associated with supporting roles. These roles often elevate the story and contribute significantly to the protagonist's development by embodying quirky or complex characters. Leading actors, on the other hand, drive the primary narrative and are the central focus of the story.

Performance Style - Character actors often employ transformative techniques, modifying their appearance, voice, and mannerisms to fit the character, making them less recognizable across different roles. This methodology sets them apart from more stereotypical leads who often maintain a recognizable persona throughout their careers.

Recognition and Training

Character actors may not receive the same level of fame as leading actors but are highly respected for their skills and ability to bring depth to their roles. Several iconic character actors, such as Steve Buscemi, Kathy Bates, and John C. Reilly, are celebrated for their versatile and memorable performances.

How actors approach the craft and how they are trained plays a significant role in distinguishing one type from another. For instance, actors trained with Stella Adler are often referred to as character actors, while those trained with Stanislavsky or Lee Strasberg are considered method actors. Sanford Meisner's students are referred to as Meisner actors. Although these great teachers are no longer with us, their techniques continue to be taught at various acting schools.

Transformative vs. Personality Actors

Character actors are known for their ability to transform themselves into completely different personas, making it challenging to recognize them in various roles. In contrast, personality actors maintain a recognizable persona and often play similar roles in different movies, showcasing their ability to adapt within a certain character template.

It is important to note that being a personality actor is not inherently a negative quality. In fact, many blockbuster movies from the 1980s and 1990s leveraged star power to market their films effectively. For example, marketing campaigns would emphasize the star's name, such as "The Neighborhood Watch - WITH BRUCE WILLIS!" or "Bare Knuckle Sandwich - WITH SYLVESTER STALLONE!" thereby making the cast a key selling point.

Ultimately, the roles and techniques employed by character actors and personality actors provide the industry with a diverse range of talent, each adding unique value to the storytelling process. Whether you're looking to transform into a completely different character or maintain a recognizable persona, both character actors and personality actors play vital roles in the world of acting.