ABSTRACT
This chapter helps the actor identify the clues in the script where the editor will most likely cut for a reaction shot. One of the actor’s jobs is to give the editor clean reactions that provide options for them to cut the scene in the editing room. These reactions must always be tied to the given circumstances that propel the action of the story. It gives an explanation why editors often cut on physical movement, beats, eye movement, and emotional words. It outlines why the editor often cuts to a reaction from the character who is listening to a monologue, and how the actor can prepare the technical aspects before arriving on set. It defines cross-camera reactions and encourages the actor to use them wisely in key moments of the scene. Subconsciously, many actors are afraid to go across the camera with their eyes in fear of looking into the camera or “spiking” the lens. Actors will often pull their energy away from the camera instead of feeling the lens and moving toward it. There are two original sample scenes with exercises that focus on identifying and executing an appropriate reaction at the end of the chapter.
