Was it just me or did it sound like they were reading right off the script? Maybe it was supposed to sound like that? Any ideas?
shareYeah, I noticed that too. It especially sounded that way towards the beginning and it really bugged the crap out of me.
---------------------------------
Jerry Goldsmith
1929-2004
Debra Eisentstadt wasn't very good. I don't know if Mamet wanted her to sound like she was just reading the script or not. I thought Macy brought life to the dialogue, though. I also think the "reading the script" quality is partly due to Mamet's style.
shareDefinitely. My understanding of Mamet is that when he directs his own shows or films he wants all of his written dialogue to be spoken almost robotically. At least, that's what my director said in regards to Mamet.
sharei haven't studied Mamet, but given the overall feeling of "Comedy of the Absurd" i thought it wasn't bad in regards to "robotic dialoges". i think it helps underlying the lack of communication between the two carachters (despite the good will).
shareMamet has a very specific philosophy of acting and directing. He beleives that the actor's only responsibility is to deliver the text and to "invent nothing, deny nothing". He hates it when actors "get in the way of the playwright" by adding onto their words.
Read "True and False" for more info on this.
IF Mamet's philosophy is to have this "robotic" recital of his scripts, then for all intensive purposes, just READ it. Go ahead & leave your work in the ONE mode of communication/expression!
There's no reason to turn anything into a live performance--be it theater or film-- just have it be READ, if that is your preference.
Once you invite ACTORS into the concept/equation, let go of your arroagance...and please, for the LOVE OF GOD, let them ACT (well... do their JOB) like real persons do & not read, seeming as emotionless incompetents in their chosen field. They sorta look mentally-impaired (or drugged) while reciting from a catalog.
I understand he feels compelled, so they not "ruin" his stellar writing (huh? Maybe ONE or 2 works at best) but what a tragic mistake.
Heck I could "ACT" in this film & I know NOT ONE simple quality of this skill.
Supposedly, he has them rehearse to a metronome. Its distinct, if nothing else.
___
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qssvnjj5Moo