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Previous Movies as Examples

Question:

I have just gotten the lead in "Jake’s Women" at the local Community Theater.  I understand Alan Alda just did this for a tv movie, as well as doing it on Broadway. I wanted to see his performance to get some better feel for the part, but is this type of research advisable?  And if so, how do I get a copy of this tv movie? John Kimbell

John, You’re right, Alan Alda did the play and a film.  I don’t know if the film is available or not but, for what it’s worth, I — as a professional-level acting teacher — would advise against watching his performance even if you can find it.  You might subliminally be tempted to just imitate Alda instead of finding your own way.  I advise that you make the role your own. It’s a good role, by the way, in a flawed play.  The main conflict happens in the past, not the present, which is the fatal mistake Simon made. Ed Hooks

Response:

I have just gotten the lead in "Jake’s Women" at the local Community Theater.  I understand Alan Alda just did this for a tv movie, as well as doing it on Broadway. I wanted to see his performance to get some better feel for the part, but is this type of research advisable?  And if so, how do I get a copy of this tv movie?

Congratluations, John.  It’s a wonderful play.   I saw the made-for-tv, and it was, IMHO, an adequate translation. But as an actor/director/coach, I urge you to resist the temptation to "study" the film version.  I doubt that you’ll be able to find a copy of it anyway, since its ratings were mediocore.  Of course, one day, it’ll show up on cable.   By all means, do your homework…. read other plays with similar themes. Spend some time at the local "single’s bar" and quietly observe middle-aged men playing the "pick up" game. Of course, you can’t "follow" the action into the apartment or hotel room, but use your imagination.  Then imagine how you’ll deal with your ex-wife, your sister, etc. etc. Years ago, I directed SLEUTH.  By the second rehearsal, I KNEW one of my leads had carefully studied the film version.  He copied gestures and attitudes.  And I resisted the temptation to fire him and re-cast the role.  But I WORKED with this actor — one on one — and FINALLY he let go of his "copy" of the film version…. and created something ORIGINAL.   Find your own truth, puh-leeze??? Respectfully, Bill

Response:

I have just gotten the lead in "Jake’s Women" at the local Community Theater.  I understand Alan Alda just did this for a tv movie, as well as doing it on Broadway.   I wanted to see his performance to get some better feel for the part, but is this type of research advisable?  And if so, how do I get a copy of this tv movie? John Kimbell

Response:

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