This book presents a practical, accessible guide to the Laban-Malmgren system of movement psychology for actors. Developed from Rudolf Laban's movement analysis and expanded by Yat Malmgren, this powerful approach gives actors concrete physical tools to create compelling, authentic characters without relying solely on emotional recall or text analysis.
Unlike other acting guides that present this system through complex terminology and abstract theory, "Character in Motion" breaks everything down into plain language with contemporary examples from film and television that today's actors will immediately recognize. The book transforms a sophisticated acting methodology into practical techniques that can be applied to auditions, rehearsals, and performances across all media.
At its core, the guide explores how physical changes create psychological effects, giving actors reliable access to character states through specific body patterns rather than forcing emotional states. The four Motion Factors (Weight, Space, Time, and Flow) provide the building blocks for creating any character's physical life. Each factor is explored through simple exercises and real-world examples, showing how subtle physical adjustments can transform an actor's entire performance.
The guide introduces the six fundamental character types (Inner Attitudes) using familiar screen performances as reference points, making it easy for actors to recognize and embody these patterns. Rather than memorizing terminology, readers learn concrete exercises that activate these character types instantly.
Unique features include:
- "Emergency Character Creation Kit" for auditions and last-minute preparation
- Transformation techniques for playing characters unlike yourself
- Troubleshooting guide for common acting problems
- Working Actions reference guide for accessing specific character states
- Motion Factor exercises that can be done in 5 minutes or less
Throughout, the focus remains on practical application rather than theory. Each concept includes "5-Minute Actor Tips" for immediate use, "Quick Check" summaries to confirm understanding, and "Try This Now" exercises to reinforce learning through physical practice.
The guide acknowledges the realities of professional acting, with specific sections addressing audition scenarios, screen vs. stage performance, understudy emergencies, and handling difficult direction. The simple, conversational style makes complex concepts accessible to actors at any level.
"Character in Motion" transforms what is often considered an esoteric, academic approach into a practical toolkit for creating specific, memorable characters under any circumstances. It gives actors reliable tools to expand their range, create characters quickly, and solve specific performance problems through concrete physical techniques rather than abstract psychological approaches.
