Cue Card

Describe a film character that was played by an actor or actress that you admire

You should say:

• who the actor/actress is
• when you saw the film
• what their character was like; and
• explain why you admire them.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. Are actors and actresses interested in their work? Why?
2. Is being a professional actor or actress a good career choice?
3. What can children learn from an acting class?
4. Why do children like to dress up and pretend?
5. What are the differences between performers who earn a lot of money and those that don’t?
6. What are the differences between acting in a theater and acting in a movie?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I want to talk about a film character that has always fascinated me - the iconic character of Daniel Plainview from the movie 'There Will Be Blood', played by the incomparable Daniel Day-Lewis. This character is a masterclass in acting, a true embodiment of the phrase'method acting'. Day-Lewis's portrayal of Plainview is a testament to his incredible range and depth as an actor.

Plainview is a complex character, a self-made oil tycoon with a ruthless streak and a penchant for manipulation. He's a chameleon-like figure, able to adapt to any situation and use his charisma to get what he wants. Day-Lewis brings this character to life with his incredible physicality, using his body language and voice to convey the character's intensity and presence.

One of the most striking aspects of Plainview's character is his relationship with his adopted son, H.W. It's a twisted and toxic dynamic, with Plainview using his son as a prop to further his own interests. Day-Lewis brings a level of nuance and depth to this relationship that's both captivating and unsettling.

What I admire most about Day-Lewis's performance is his ability to convey the complexity and depth of Plainview's character without ever resorting to caricature or stereotype. He brings a level of humanity to the character that makes him both fascinating and terrifying to watch.

In short, Daniel Day-Lewis's portrayal of Daniel Plainview is a masterclass in acting, a true tour-de-force performance that showcases his incredible range and depth as an actor. It's a performance that continues to inspire and fascinate me to this day, and one that I believe will be studied by actors and filmmakers for generations to come.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

Method acting

A technique of acting in which the actor immerses themselves in the character's emotions and experiences in order to create a more authentic performance.

Daniel Day-Lewis's performance in 'There Will Be Blood' is a prime example of method acting.

Sample Part 3 Answers

Are actors and actresses interested in their work? Why? Many actors and actresses are deeply passionate about their work, and it's not uncommon to see them fully immerse themselves in their roles. For instance, Daniel Day-Lewis, a highly acclaimed actor, is known for his intense preparation and dedication to his characters. He's been known to stay in character even when the camera isn't rolling, which shows just how invested he is in his work. This level of commitment is not unique to Day-Lewis, as many actors and actresses strive to deliver authentic performances that resonate with audiences.

Is being a professional actor or actress a good career choice? Being a professional actor or actress can be a fulfilling career choice for those who are passionate about storytelling and bringing characters to life. However, it's essential to acknowledge that the industry is highly competitive, and success is not guaranteed. Many actors and actresses face rejection and uncertainty, which can be emotionally and financially challenging. Nevertheless, for those who are willing to put in the hard work and persevere, the rewards can be immense, both creatively and financially.

What can children learn from an acting class? Acting classes can be a fantastic way for children to develop essential life skills, such as confidence, creativity, and self-expression. By participating in acting exercises and activities, children can learn to tap into their imagination, think on their feet, and work collaboratively with others. Moreover, acting classes can help children develop empathy and understanding by exploring different characters and perspectives. These skills can benefit them far beyond the stage or screen, translating to real-life situations and relationships.

Why do children like to dress up and pretend? Children's love for dressing up and pretending is closely tied to their natural curiosity and desire for exploration. By assuming different roles and characters, children can experiment with various identities, test boundaries, and learn about the world around them. This form of play also allows children to express themselves creatively, using their imagination to create their own stories and scenarios. It's a way for them to take control, make choices, and experience different emotions in a safe and controlled environment.

What are the differences between performers who earn a lot of money and those that don’t? One key difference between performers who earn a lot of money and those who don't is often their level of exposure and recognition. Established stars, like Julia Roberts or Denzel Washington, have built a reputation over the years, which enables them to command higher salaries and endorsement deals. In contrast, lesser-known performers may struggle to secure well-paying roles or opportunities. Additionally, the type of projects they work on can also impact their earnings. For instance, performers in blockbuster movies or popular TV shows tend to earn more than those in independent films or local theater productions.

What are the differences between acting in a theater and acting in a movie? One of the main differences between acting in a theater and acting in a movie is the level of intimacy and immediacy. In theater, actors perform live in front of an audience, which requires a different energy and connection with the crowd. In contrast, movie acting involves performing in front of a camera, which can be more isolating but also allows for greater control over the performance. Another difference is the pace of the performance – in theater, actors typically perform the entire play from start to finish, whereas in movies, scenes are often shot out of sequence, and actors may need to adjust their performance to match the editing and pacing of the final product.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

immerse themselves

to become completely involved in something

He immersed himself in his work, forgetting about everything else.

bring characters to life

to make characters seem real and believable

The actor's performance brought the character to life, making the audience feel like they were watching a real person.

tap into

to access or use a particular quality or resource

The acting class helped the children tap into their creativity.

think on their feet

to think quickly and make decisions without much time to consider them

Actors need to think on their feet when improvising a scene.

command

to have control over something or someone

The famous actor can command a high salary for his performances.

blockbuster

a very successful movie or product

The new movie is a blockbuster, breaking all box office records.

independent film

a movie made outside of the major film studios

The independent film was a critical success, despite its low budget.

in front of

facing or opposite someone or something

The actor performed in front of a live audience.

out of sequence

not in the correct order

The scenes were filmed out of sequence, but the editor put them together in the correct order.