The Green Room - Crossing the Line

Reply #10 - Aug 6^th, 2008 at 10:38am

ShrubGirl Ex Member

Cheeky Monkey wrote on Aug 6^th, 2008 at 8:38am:

1. �What's your "line" as an actor? i.e. things that you refuse to do. You know, things like kissing (opposite or same sex) smoking, cursing, sex (simulated or real). �For example, I'm willing to curse a little bit but refuse to show nudity, etc.

Some language is out for me. Like DK, a few words just wouldn't work. No nudity (though there are some in this state who think a strapless dress falls into this category--i do not) I honestly can't say about the sex. No real, of course, but "simulated" has a broad definition. If your led to a bed, your dress is unzipped and the lights fade, is that "simulated sex"? THis would have to be a case my case issue. Kissing is no problem

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2. What would it take for you to cross that line? A million dollars? I'm not propositioning, � Roll Eyes

but am curious if you would ever see yourself in a position to compromise your line.

Whats the purpose of a line if something (especially something as pathetic as money) would make you cross it. The line is the line. However, I could see where differences in my life could make differences in "the line." Being married or a mother have some bearing. If I were suddenly single, I could see where the line may shift.

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3. Have you ever been in a situation where your line was challenged? For example, if you agreed to do a role, signed on the dotted line, etc. only to find out too late that you have to do something that you promised yourself you wouldn't do. What did you do?

No. Unless you count a completely ridiculous costume piece or prop that makes absolutely no sense whatsoever, one that is being used because no one cares or want's to put any effort into it--not one that is a deliberate choice. I have, once or twice said "I will not. . . " and let the director respond as they choose. I guess i'm scary because they always let it go.

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4. A more general question: should actors even have lines? Maybe acting is acting no matter what it is. I obviously don't agree, since I have a line, but I could definitely see an argument for that.

That is, IMO, a dumb question. Why not ask if actors should have souls? (They get in the way of really becoming a character) Or values of any kind? I think the "acting is acting no matter what" arguement is a pathetic excuse for people to shun any responsibility for thier actions.

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Reply #11 - Aug 6^th, 2008 at 10:52am

The Dark Knight Ex Member

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[quote]4. A more general question: should actors even have lines?

That is, IMO, a dumb question. Why not ask if actors should have souls? (

Plus, if actors had no lines, it would just be mime.

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Reply #12 - Aug 6^th, 2008 at 10:59am

julesb2183 Offline
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Layton

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Good topic, by the way.

Cheeky Monkey wrote on Aug 6^th, 2008 at 8:38am:

1. �What's your "line" as an actor?

If I ever encounter it, I'll let you know. �As it happens, most roles I've ever had were... �well, pretty safe.

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2. What would it take for you to cross that line?

No idea (see above), although I think quite a number of performers have established definite boundaries and came out ahead in the long run for it.

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3. Have you ever been in a situation where your line was challenged?

Sorry to be so boring, but... well, wait. Does being an in-bound call-center puke count? People call in on that 1-800 number on the infomercial they're watching at 10:22 p.m., you get the call, and you have to read a script with conviction that you really don't agree with?
I eventually quit the job.

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4. A more general question: should actors even have lines? Maybe acting is acting no matter what it is. I obviously don't agree, since I have a line, but I could definitely see an argument for that.

Sure, but I think performers are more marketable when ~~they'll do anything for a buck~~ they're flexible, and willing to take chances and challenge their own assumptions.

don't get me started on that Grin

I had a job like that - and all the time you're like "don't buy that! the product is crap!" not to mention that those companies what to get you for as much as they can and sometimes aren't quite ethical. (not breaking the law, just sneaky) The scripts are designed to bring the customer to the end of their patience.

Okay, back to the topic. . . .

yes, I think having lines you won't cross is okay. I'm sure most actors have lines in one form or another. I just think if you have major lines you won't cross researching the play is a good idea to make sure the play/part is for you before you get involved in it. I do have problems with actors being willing to do anything just to make a buck, though.

It seems to me that sometimes obscenity it put there just because they think people expect it/ want it or that it will make it more "adult" or "cooler" if they put that type of thing in the show - and it doesn't move the plot. Then there are shows that it does move the plot and and is essential because it portrays the character/ situation accurately. I guess what I am saying is that I'd be more comfortable playing the part of a prostitute, for example, in Les Miserables than in a sleazy show about a hooker. (if that makes any sense). I liked Chicago even though it was full of obscenity and sleaze because it made you think about society.

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Reply #13 - Aug 6^th, 2008 at 11:19am

ShrubGirl Ex Member

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[quote]4. A more general question: should actors even have lines?

That is, IMO, a dumb question. Why not ask if actors should have souls? (

Plus, if actors had no lines, it would just be mime.

THis is the only thing that managed to make me smile today!!

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Reply #14 - Aug 6^th, 2008 at 11:27am

ShrubGirl Ex Member

I should point out that there is a difference between "the line" =things I will not do because of personal values, and things i just don't want to do because they would be gross or something.

Things I would jsut rather not do, I could be convinced with the right incentive.

"The line" doesnt' respond to bribery.

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Reply #15 - Aug 6^th, 2008 at 11:33am

julesb2183 Offline
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Layton

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I should point out that there is a difference between "the line" =things I will not do because of personal values, and things i just don't want to do because they would be gross or something.

Things I would jsut rather not do, I could be convinced with the right incentive.

"The line" doesnt' respond to bribery.

good point.

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Reply #16 - Aug 6^th, 2008 at 11:43am

Wc365 Offline
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The Random Element
West Punkt

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Any part that requires me to chain-smoke and share the stage with about dozen scantly-clad men and women.

"This is why I won't do two shows a night anymore. I just won't do it."

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Reply #17 - Aug 6^th, 2008 at 11:57am

Tshep Offline
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It made me feel sad, and
just a little bit dirty.
Beebe, Arkansas

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[quote author=Cheeky Monkey link=1218033528/0#0 date=1218033528]Some questions about "the line" (feel free to answer any or all of them):

1. What's your "line" as an actor? i.e. things that you refuse to do.

-Act without a contract and fee. Have actual sexual intercourse (vaginal, oral and/or anal).

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You know, things like kissing (opposite or same sex)

-Would do it and have done it, both sexes... on various and sundry body parts (with and w/out tongue). Would however balk if my stage kiss partner was all herped-out.

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smoking

-No problem... either tobacky or herbal.

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cursing

-Feckin' yeah!

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sex (simulated or real).

-Simulated is fine... done this a number of times representing a variety of acts/combinations... On stage, simulation, if done well, pretty much obviates any need for actual sex (unless the venue is really, really, really small and the mechanics of penetration are what's important..... I have yet to read this particular play however).

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For example.....but refuse to show nudity, etc.

-No problem with nudity... have done it (on stage and film), would do it again.

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2. What would it take for you to cross that line? A million dollars? I'm not propositioning, Roll Eyes

but am curious if you would ever see yourself in a position to compromise your line.

-Not getting paid would depend on my inclination/availability to volunteer my time and skill... and whether or not I can use it as a write-off.

Having actual sex wouldn't be a consideration.... not because I have a problem with the sex, but because I have a commitment to my wife.

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3. Have you ever been in a situation where your line was challenged? For example, if you agreed to do a role, signed on the dotted line, etc. only to find out too late that you have to do something that you promised yourself you wouldn't do. What did you do?

No.

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4. A more general question: should actors even have lines? Maybe acting is acting no matter what it is. I obviously don't agree, since I have a line, but I could definitely see an argument for that.

Depends on whether or not your do this as a vocation or an avocation. If you're a hobbyist, a personal line isn't an issue.

They say, best men are moulded out of faults; &&And, for the most, become much more the better &&For being a little bad.

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