Kristen Stewart Says Acting Is ‘Unmasculine’ and Asks: ‘Have You Ever Heard of a Female Actor That Was Method?’ - Variety
Kristen Stewart Weighs In On The Method Acting Debate
In a recent interview with The New York Times, Kristen Stewart, director of "The Chronology of Water", shared her thoughts on the method acting debate. Stewart's comments have sparked a lively discussion about the nature of acting and whether it is truly an art form.
What Did Kristen Stewart Say?
According to the article, Kristen Stewart described acting as "quite embarrassing and unmasculine". This statement may seem counterintuitive, given that many actors are male and have successfully navigated the industry for decades. However, Stewart's comments suggest that she believes there is a stigma surrounding acting, particularly among men.
The Method Acting Debate
The method acting debate has been ongoing for years, with some actors and directors advocating for a more naturalistic approach to acting, while others prefer a more stylized or theatrical approach. The debate centers on the idea of whether actors should immerse themselves in their characters' emotions and experiences, or maintain a sense of detachment.
Marlon Brando and Lee Strasberg
The method acting technique was first developed by Lee Strasberg at the Actors Studio in New York City. One of the key figures associated with this approach is Marlon Brando, who worked closely with Strasberg and helped to popularize the technique in the 1950s.
Daniel Day-Lewis: The Ultimate Method Actor
Daniel Day-Lewis is often cited as one of the greatest method actors of all time. He has a reputation for fully immersing himself in his characters, often staying in character even when the camera is not rolling. This approach has resulted in some of the most iconic performances in cinema history.
The Problem with Method Acting
While the method acting technique can be incredibly powerful and rewarding, it also has its drawbacks. Some critics argue that it can lead to actors becoming too invested in their characters, resulting in a loss of objectivity and nuance.
Kristen Stewart's Take on Method Acting
Kristen Stewart's comments on method acting suggest that she believes there is a stigma surrounding the technique, particularly among men. She may be implying that traditional notions of masculinity are often at odds with the emotional intensity required for method acting.
The Future of Acting
As the acting industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Kristen Stewart's comments on method acting influence future generations of actors and directors. Will we see a shift towards more naturalistic or stylized approaches to acting?
Conclusion
Kristen Stewart's comments on method acting have sparked an important conversation about the nature of acting and its relationship to masculinity. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to acting, it is clear that the debate will continue for years to come.
Some Questions to Consider
- Is method acting truly an art form or a technique?
- How can actors balance their emotions with objectivity and nuance?
- What role does masculinity play in the acting industry?
What Do You Think?
Do you agree with Kristen Stewart's comments on method acting? Share your thoughts on social media using the hashtag #methodactingdebate.
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References
- "Kristen Stewart on the Art of Acting" by The New York Times
- "The Method Acting Technique" by Actors Equity Association