Facial expressions
It鈥檚 important to recognise that facial expressions are also an important aspect of body language.
When you鈥檙e evaluating performance work, whether it鈥檚 what you鈥檝e seen or what you鈥檝e been doing, you need to look at every aspect that contributes to the overall performance. This includes describing facial expressions in detail and how they enhanced the work.
Stage and screen
There are differences in the way that actors use facial expression on stage and when acting for the camera. Performing in a large theatre auditorium might mean that many of the audience are a long way away. It鈥檚 the actors鈥 job to communicate their role to fit the space effectively. Facial expressions, like body language, may be heightened or exaggerated so that the character鈥檚 intentions are clear for all.
Acting for the camera is very different. The camera records every blink of the eye and slight change of expression: it鈥檚 much closer and intimate. This is reflected in acting style and facial expressions may be more subtle. Even a slight alteration of an actor鈥檚 field of vision can indicate a change of thought. Some of the best film and television actors 鈥榙o鈥 very little.
Look at Describing facial expressions to learn more.