I take great pride in having friends who think differently from me. In fact, I might even exaggerate that a little. Most of my friends do think differently than me to a certain extent, but we generally agree on the fundamentals. However, in general, I have friends who are not afraid to disagree with me and who often even enjoy getting into a bit of a tussle over art and ideas.

Here comes David Mamet. He is definitely that kind of friend. He can be a bit more bothersome because he is highly accomplished and respected, so he tends to approach everything from the position of "I must be right because I'm more accomplished and respected," and that can undoubtedly be tiresome.

But he is smart, he is not a liar, and he is passionate about his subject matter. It is obvious that he cares. Since he is smart and accomplished, and by this point, he has probably made a lot of money, there is no need for him to write this book except that he truly gives a damn. And it is that aspect of his writing that is most prominent in "True and False." His commitment to the state of the craft is palpable.

None of that means you have to agree with him. I don't agree with him through at least half of the book. Maybe even more. But when I don't, I have to think very carefully about why I don't and make sure that what I think instead is, in fact, a better idea or a better way of doing things.

And then the inherent challenge is that I have to go out there and actually do it. That challenge alone is what makes this book not just excellent but also necessary.

This is a book on acting that is specifically targeted at aspiring actors.

Although my rating might not fully reflect it, I did find enjoyment in reading this book. However, I do believe that it could have been condensed to a more reasonable length of around 20 pages instead of the current 100 or so.

I have a certain appreciation for Mamet as a playwright, having read only Oleanna and Race so far. The advice and perspectives on acting methods presented in this book are quite accurate and eye-opening.

Nevertheless, it seems that the practical application of these ideas might be somewhat limited, as they appear to be more geared towards those who are aiming to make a name for themselves in the US stage.

Overall, while the book does offer some valuable insights, its length and the specific context in which its advice is most applicable are aspects that could be improved upon.

A Different View on Acting and I Enjoyed It Very Much!!

Acting is often seen as a glamorous and exciting profession, but there is much more to it than meets the eye. In this article, I will share a different perspective on acting that I find truly fascinating.

Acting is not just about memorizing lines and performing on stage or in front of a camera. It requires a deep understanding of human emotions, behaviors, and motivations. Actors must be able to put themselves in the shoes of their characters and bring them to life in a believable and engaging way.

One aspect of acting that I particularly enjoy is the process of character development. This involves researching and studying the character's background, personality, and relationships, and then using this information to create a unique and multi-dimensional performance. It is like building a world within a world, and it allows me to explore different aspects of myself and others.

Another thing that I love about acting is the opportunity to collaborate with other talented individuals. Directors, writers, producers, and fellow actors all bring their own skills and perspectives to the table, and together we can create something truly magical. The creative energy and synergy that exists during the rehearsal and production process is truly inspiring.

In conclusion, while acting may seem like a simple and straightforward profession, it is actually a complex and multi-faceted art form that requires a great deal of skill, dedication, and passion. I feel truly fortunate to have discovered this different view on acting, and I look forward to continuing to explore and learn more about this wonderful craft.

David Mamet accomplishes an astonishing feat in clearly defining the boundaries that exist between critiquing the artist and actually being the artist.

His profound words of truth and the admonition to be unafraid and to bestow respect upon oneself for having the courage to honor the craft of acting serve as a beautiful exhortation.

It encourages one to truly embody the words on the page and to let go of self-criticism for the purpose of growth.

Just as Shakespeare said, it's about acting "well thy part."

This not only emphasizes the importance of fully immersing oneself in the role but also highlights the need to have the confidence and self-respect to do so without being overly critical of oneself.

Mamet's insights offer valuable guidance for those who aspire to master the art of acting and to reach their full potential as performers.

This piece contains some truly excellent insights regarding acting and being an artist. However, it's a pity that Mamet is so close-minded! He firmly believes that his ideas are correct and that everyone else is in the wrong. While I do concur that, for the most part, less is more when it comes to acting, especially in film, at the same time, there have been numerous wonderful and completely believable performances by actors who act "big." If one examines Mamet's films, one must also be highly skeptical of his advice, considering that most of the acting in his own films is rather dull.

Surprisingly, he never mentions Robert Bresson, even though there is a filmmaker who invented and perfected the no-affectation acting technique about 30 - 40 years before this book was published. Perhaps Bresson wasn't masculine enough for Mr. Tough Guy Mamet.

Nevertheless, his idea that good acting is a courageous battle with the unknown is, in my opinion, valid. Any actor who is too comfortable acting is most likely not truly engaging with the material and the circumstances at all. I recall finding it fascinating that Gene Hackman detested playing the part of Henry Caul in Coppola's "The Conversation," and that the role made him feel awful. Instead of expressing his emotions, Caul bottles them all up inside, which is a familiar habit of many, many people but not of many actors. The fact that he was uncomfortable in the role indicates that he was truly living moment to moment in a very dreadful situation. It's really not enjoyable to play that kind of character if you're doing it right - but more often than not, that's the kind of character we desire to watch. Mamet's articulation of acting as something that is often distinctly unpleasurable - an occupation of repeatedly diving into situations where one has little to no control - is a good one and is often overlooked by those who enter the profession seeking attention and love.

Technically speaking, this is a book specifically designed for actors, and Mamet is delving into the subject of acting as a practice.

However, to be completely honest, I had the distinct impression that a great deal of what he was expressing could be considered as excellent advice and useful methods applicable to everyday life.

I approached the reading of this book as if it were a profound philosophy book. As a result, I not only gained a greater respect for the intricate craft of acting but also acquired a wealth of wisdom regarding how I desire to navigate through the world.

This book has truly opened my eyes to the many parallels and valuable lessons that can be drawn from the realm of acting and applied to our daily existence. It serves as a reminder that there is much to be learned and gained from different disciplines and perspectives.

Overall, it has been a highly enlightening and thought-provoking read that has left a lasting impact on my mindset and outlook.

Absolutely inhaled this book. I initially had no interest in delving back into reading about acting technique. However, I decided to give Mamet a try. What I ended up accidentally reading was an anti-acting technique book, and it was precisely what I needed.

Mamet challenges actors to shed their ego and abandon the relentless pursuit of "owning a scene," "honing their craft," and other impossible goals that will constantly lead to self-disappointment.

Instead, he asks us to view ourselves simply as storytellers, striving to convey a tale as effectively as possible to an audience. When we do this, it becomes about them and our scene partner, rather than us attempting to show off, which is exactly how it should be.

Mamet urges actors to return to what initially made them love this profession, rather than becoming mired in unenjoyable teaching methods and the never-ending quest for validation from those we consider superior.

There are numerous insightful quotes and chapters within this book that I would highly recommend to any actor or creative, especially those beginning to feel bogged down by the educational and business aspects of the craft.

A must-read.

"It is the audience that go to the theatre to exercise its emotion, not the actor."

Mamet’s True and False is a highly accessible work. It is not only due to his direct and engaging style but also because it is easy to misinterpret his advice as a license to do less and still claim the title of an actor. A significant part of the book is dedicated to critiquing Stanislavski’s method, which has had a profound impact on 20th-century theatre and culture. However, perhaps “critique” is not the most accurate term as Mamet does not delve into the method in great detail. Instead, he makes broad and confident statements that seem to undermine the method and its practitioners. By the end of the collection of essays, Mamet’s insistence that an actor should “Just Say the Lines” becomes almost a catchphrase. That’s all there is to it. Learn the lines before rehearsal, learn the blocking during rehearsal, and perform them on the night. Done.

Mamet also discusses various other topics such as telling the truth, experiencing discomfort, doing rather than feeling, and the bravery required to step onto the stage. He argues that an education in drama is of little value and that the best way to learn is by doing. He encourages actors to get on stage and learn through practical experience. At least, that’s the surface-level message.

Once you recognize his polemic for what it is, there is much more to be gained from it. Mamet presents his ideas as if they apply to all acting, theatre, and plays. However, he is really just promoting his own style with the same certainty as the founders of older schools. While I wouldn’t blindly adopt all of his tactics, I also wouldn’t embrace the nonsense that often comes with preaching The Method or any other school of thought.

In my view, his real advice is not that all preparation for a role is worthless but rather that much of it is an excuse. It is a way to make our work seem more difficult than it is and to feel that we have earned the right to enjoy the job we have chosen. So, he says, just enjoy it! Choose tactics that are fun, even if they are uncomfortable. Select roles that are enjoyable, even if they are villainous. And pick plays that are entertaining, even if they are controversial.

I am interested in reading Mamet’s newer essays on this topic, especially considering the recent resurgence of Method-worship in celebrity acting. Without a doubt, I will return to this book. It may serve as an antidote, a confidence-booster, or simply a source of inspiration, like the sentence “There is nothing more pragmatic than idealism.” That man knows how to end a paragraph. I don’t.

I think this book is a must-read for everyone who has attended acting school. Hahaha. It might cause some controversy and make you question the time and money you spent on activities like rolling on the floor and fooling around. However, I believe the most important thing it can do is to remind us that no one can give us the ability or permission to act; we already have it within us, residing in our desire for it.

Mamet is fixated on the tangible, controllable, and external aspects. He detests anything "inner," intangible, or emotional. Although I don't concur with his dismissal of all acting training or education, I do appreciate and find inspiration in his heroic view of acting. To be an actor, you simply do it. It's that straightforward. You select an action and carry it out, whether on stage or in front of an audience. And by truly following through with the action and speaking the words of the play, you enable the audience to invest in and engage with the story. How can you tell if you're successful? If the audience follows and invests in the story. It's both that simple and terrifying.

I like how he is unashamed of his perspective. He doesn't mince words or hide his opinions. By being so pure and undisguised in his expression, he gives us (the readers) the opportunity to decide for ourselves whether we agree with him or not. Sadly, this is something often overlooked in our culture - speaking plainly and honestly. If you speak plainly and communicate what you believe, you give others the chance to know if they agree with you. Why do we hide and dress up our beliefs? Whom do we fear we might offend?

I like your work, Mamet. Even if I don't entirely agree with it.

One of the most influential books in my growth as an actor is truly a remarkable piece of work. It delves deep into the art and craft of acting, offering valuable insights and practical advice that have had a profound impact on my journey.

Every page is filled with wisdom and inspiration, making it a must-read for all actors and directors alike. The author's unique perspective and wealth of experience shine through, providing a comprehensive guide to understanding the nuances of character development, performance techniques, and the overall creative process.

Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting out in the world of acting, this book has something to offer. It challenges you to think differently, to push the boundaries of your creativity, and to strive for excellence in every role. I cannot recommend it highly enough. It is a book that will stay with you long after you have turned the final page and continue to shape your approach to acting for years to come.

I may not have agreed with everything he presented. However, wow, did he give me lots to think about with my passion for acting.

His ideas were like a storm that blew through my mind, ruffling the calm waters of my preconceived notions. Even though there were aspects that I couldn't fully embrace, the sheer volume of thoughts and perspectives he offered was truly overwhelming.

It made me question my own approach to acting, the choices I make, and the goals I strive for. It was as if he had shone a bright light on areas that I had previously overlooked or taken for granted. With my deep passion for acting, this newfound food for thought is both exciting and challenging.

It has ignited a spark within me, driving me to explore further, to dig deeper into my craft, and to see if there are new ways and means to express myself and bring my characters to life. I am grateful for this encounter, as it has undoubtedly expanded my horizons and given me a fresh perspective on my beloved art form.

Incredibly insightful, humorous, and gracefully written.

This description perfectly encapsulates the essence of a truly remarkable piece of writing. The author's ability to offer profound insights is simply astonishing. It's as if they have a unique perspective that allows them to see through the surface and uncover the hidden truths.

The humor injected into the text adds an extra layer of charm. It lightens the mood and makes the reading experience not only intellectually stimulating but also highly enjoyable. The jokes and witty remarks are seamlessly integrated, never feeling forced or out of place.

Moreover, the graceful writing style is a joy to behold. The words flow effortlessly, creating a beautiful rhythm that draws the reader in and keeps them engaged from start to finish. The author's command of the language is evident, with their use of vivid imagery, precise vocabulary, and elegant sentence structures.

Overall, this is a piece of writing that stands out for its incredible insights, delightful humor, and graceful prose. It has the power to captivate readers, make them think, and leave a lasting impression.