The first book to directly address directors about working with actors Offers practical techniques in managing the director/actor relationship

'A kit of concrete, practical tools to make the ineffable reachable. Time and time again over many takes or performances.' David Chase, executive producer, Northern Exposure, I'll Fly Away. 'Brilliant and original and true' Polly Platt, producer, Bottle Rocket, Say Anything, War of the Roses, Terms of Endearment, Broadcast News 'Judith has pulled off a hat trick - a book that is exciting for beginners and extremely useful for professionals; that is both 'how-to' and 'self-help'; and one that not only inspires the mind but the heart as well' Peter Werner, Oscar and Ace winning, Emmy and DGA nominated director. 'This is everything a director should know about working with actors.' Steven Charles Jaffe, executive producer, Ghost; producer, Star Treck VI, Strange Days 'After living on movie sets for over fifteen years, Judith's class opened a door for me to an aspect of that creative process about which I had never really been aware-acting.' Ron Judkins, production sound mixer, Jurassic Park, Schindler's List 'Judy's class made me better able to judge actors' performances.' Arthur Coburn, Editor, The Mask, Dominick & Eugene, Beverly Hills Cop 'A must read for any director working with actors. Directing actors is filled with constructive information that would serve not only the neophyte but also the skilled professional director.' DGA Magazine 'Directing Actors is a terrific book - informative, exciting, even inspirational.' Joe Ruben, director, Return to Paradise, Money Train, Sleeping with the Enemy 'Judith Weston understands the complex relationship that exists between actor and director. She demystifies the psychology of actors by explaining in simple terms what they need from the director in order to bring their roles to life. Whether a first-time director or an experienced veteran, you'll benefit from listening to Judith Weston.' Mark Steven Johnson, Writer, Grumpy Old Men; director, Simon Birch

Acknowledgements Introduction I. Result Direction and Quick Fixes II. Moment by Moment III. Listening and Talking IV. Actors' Choices V. Structure: Transitions, Events and Through-Lines VI. Actors' Resources and Training VII. Script Awards VIII. Casting IX. Rehearsal X. Shooting Epilogue Appendix A: Children and Nonprofessional Actors Appendix B: Comedy Appendix C: Short list of Action Verbs Sample Simple Objectives More Action Verbs Filmography Bibliography Further Acknowledgments