“No Acting Please” by Eric Morris and Joan Hotchkis is an insightful and thought-provoking book on the art of acting. The book is based on Eric Morris’s “process,” which he developed over many years of teaching and coaching actors. Morris’s approach is a departure from traditional methods of acting, which rely heavily on external techniques such as voice and movement.
No Acting Please
The book is divided into three parts. The first part provides an overview of Morris’s process and discusses the importance of the actor’s inner life. Morris argues that an actor must have a deep understanding of themselves before they can effectively portray a character. He stresses the importance of relaxation, concentration, and imagination as key tools for the actor.
The second part of the book delves deeper into Morris’s process, discussing specific techniques for the actor to use. These include sensory work, which involves using the five senses to create a visceral experience for the actor; emotional preparation, which involves tapping into the actor’s own emotions to create a connection with the character; and improvisation, which allows the actor to explore the character’s world and relationships in a spontaneous way.
The final part of the book focuses on the practical application of Morris’s process, providing tips for auditioning and rehearsing, as well as insights into the business side of acting.
Overall, “No Acting Please” is an incredibly valuable resource for actors of all levels. Morris’s process is a refreshing departure from the often formulaic and superficial techniques taught in many acting classes. Instead, Morris emphasizes the importance of the actor’s inner life and encourages actors to bring their full selves to their work.
One of the strengths of the book is its emphasis on the actor’s imagination. Morris argues that imagination is the key to creating a believable performance, and he provides a wealth of exercises and techniques to help actors develop this crucial tool. The book also emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and authenticity in acting, encouraging actors to be fully present in the moment and to connect with their own emotions in order to create a truthful performance.
Another strength of the book is its practicality. Morris and Hotchkis provide numerous examples and exercises throughout the book to help actors apply the techniques discussed. The book also includes helpful tips for navigating the audition process and for building a career in acting.
One potential drawback of the book is that Morris’s process may not be suitable for every actor. Some actors may find his emphasis on the inner life to be too introspective or may prefer a more external approach to acting. Additionally, some of the exercises and techniques described in the book may be challenging for actors who are just starting out.
Overall, “No Acting Please” is a valuable resource for actors who are looking to deepen their craft and develop a more authentic and personal approach to acting. Morris and Hotchkis’s insights and techniques are both practical and inspiring, making this book a must-read for anyone who is serious about pursuing a career in acting.
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