"An actor would be foolish to do something that might hold up the picture, or more importantly incapacitate him. If an actor does do a stunt he needs to make sure a stunt man stands by to see that it's done correctly"
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Glenn Ford's quote highlights the cautious balance in between commitment and pragmatism in the profession of acting, particularly when it pertains to carrying out stunts. The statement successfully communicates 2 primary styles: responsibility and expertise.
First of all, Ford highlights an important element of the star's responsibility: the value of not compromising the production. By specifying, "A star would be silly to do something that may hold up the image", he is mentioning that actors have a commitment to guarantee their actions do not endanger the development and schedule of a task. Film and tv productions generally operate on tight schedules and budgets, so any delay can have significant monetary and logistical consequences. Therefore, stars need to weigh the risks of doing their own stunts, as an unfortunate injury might lead to significant interruptions.
Additionally, Ford stresses the individual obligation actors have in safeguarding their health, stating it is even "more vital" not to incapacitate themselves. This reflects the understanding that an actor's physical well-being is vital, not only for their individual life but also for their professional commitments. Injuries can have lasting effects, affecting both present and future roles.
Secondly, Ford's suggestions stresses the value of competence, "If a star does do a stunt he needs to ensure a stunt man waits to see that it's done properly". This part of the quote advocates for cooperation with professionals who are trained particularly for high-risk activities. Stunt performers bring specialized skills and experience to productions, helping make sure scenes are carried out safely and convincingly. Engaging with these specialists allows actors to take part in action sequences without needlessly risking their security or the safety of the production.
In summary, Ford's declaration is a sensible tip of the responsibilities actors have to themselves and their jobs, and the importance of appreciating and making use of the expertise of stunt experts in the market.
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