"In acting there's two different things: You're either pitching in a scene, or you're catching"
- Robin Tunney
About this Quote
Robin Tunney's quote about acting--"In acting there's 2 various things: You're either pitching in a scene, or you're capturing"-- offers a nuanced point of view on the dynamics within efficiency arts. The metaphor employs the images of baseball, a video game where pitching and catching are fundamentally interconnected, yet unique roles that together develop a complete play. In any remarkable scene, actors should occupy functions that either call for them to put in energy or to receive and react to the stimuli offered by their scene partners.
When Tunney discusses "pitching," she describes the moments where an actor takes the lead, driving the scene forward. This might involve delivering pivotal lines, determining the scene's tone, or initiating actions that provoke actions from other characters. The "pitcher" in the scene is the instigator; they are responsible for setting things into motion, consequently directing their fellow actors and bringing the composed word to life.
Alternatively, "catching" represents the responsive side of acting, where one must be attuned to the subtleties, hints, and emotions being offered by others. This includes active listening, analyzing, and responding in a way that is genuine and propels organic storytelling. The "catcher" complements the "pitcher" by soaking up the energy and intention behind actions and discussions, crafting actions that are genuine to their character and the story as a whole.
Together, these functions produce a cooperative relationship vital to effective storytelling. Both pitching and capturing demand a deep understanding of one's character and the dynamic of the scene. This duality also highlights the value of cooperation in acting; each performer should stabilize their own energies with those of their partners to preserve harmony and fluidity in their scenes. Tunney's insight distills the essence of acting into this interaction, highlighting the double duty stars need to lead and to support, to speak and to listen. This fragile balance is what transforms simple scripts into engaging, natural representations that resonate with audiences.
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