Halloween... The season of jump scares, spooky shadows, eerie lighting and not to mention horror films... but in recent years, the horror genre has evolved far beyond screaming damsels and predictable ghosts.
Once seen as lowbrow and slightly cheesy entertainment, horror films are now celebrated for their storytelling, performances and ability to explore the depths of psychological and social themes. From The Exorcist to Get Out, the genre has grown into one of the most artistically daring and performance driven forms of cinema. 
Today horror films dominate streaming platforms and box offices, and no longer just during spooky season! What's more, many actors who began their careers in horror such as Jamie Lee Curtis, Florence Pugh and Daniel Kaluuya credit the genre for sharpening their craft. Horror requires range, it requires a depth and vulnerability that pushes actors to their extreme, with primal human emotions such as fear, grief and survival, actors must balance all of this, all whilst keeping the audience hooked. 

So, as an aspiring actor, Halloween is the perfect excuse to cosy up, get some popcorn and study the genre that has become a proving ground for excellence. Below are ten films that will not only keep you entertained and your family/ friends favourite for recommendations... but also give you an insight into powerful and transformative acting. 

1. Psycho (1960) – Directed by Alfred Hitchcock
A cornerstone of the genre. Psycho remains one of cinema's most influential films. The chilling film was one of (if not) the first to push the boundaries of horror and is credited for introducing psychological  thrillers to mainstream audiences. Janet Leigh's performance as Marion Crane is a masterclass in the power of nuance and subtlety. Her fear, her guilt and her emotional arc is believable and authentic even with each twist and shock. Anthony Perkins' Norman Bates demonstrates the power of restraint; he builds dread not with aggression, but with quiet unease and fragility building the suspense.

• What makes the performances in Psycho so effective? Less is often more, both Perkins' and Leigh's performance show that horror doesn't need exaggerated, cheesy emotion but the stillness and vulnerability is what makes psycho truly chilling.

2. The Shining (1980) – Directed by Stanley Kubrick
Jack Nicholson's famous decent into madness remains influential in cinema, a rare example of something so unique that no one has been able to truly replicate it...only reference. The film is simultaneously scary, suspenseful, and psychologically intriguing. Shelley Duvall’s performance grounds the story in vulnerability and realism, amplifying the psychological tension of Nicholson’s mania.

• What can actors learn from Jack Nicholson and Shelley Duvall’s performances in The Shining? Commit fully, but stay truthful. Nicholson’s performance walks the line between theatrical and believable, something every actor can study when exploring extremes. Meanwhile, Duvall’s emotional authenticity reminds us that real terror comes from vulnerability, not volume.

3. Scream (1996) – Directed by Wes Craven
Scream revived the horror genre in the 90s. One of the most popular films of it's time, Scream cleverly satirises its predecessors, whilst keeping genuine scares. The teenagers of the 90s were bored of traditional horror movies, Wes Craven's Scream toys with this and has made Neve Campbell's portrayal of Sidney Prescott one of horrors most iconic heroines. Her resilience and intelligence aid the story whilst maintaining that authenticity of grief, fear and emotional depth. A truly outstanding performance. 

• What makes Neve Campbell’s performance in Scream so believable? Play the truth of the moment, even in heightened genres. Campbell grounds the absurdity with realism. For actors, it’s a reminder that horror works best when it’s emotionally authentic...audiences connect to the person, not the premise.

4. Get Out (2017) – Directed by Jordan Peele
Creepy, unsettling and frankly outstanding. Jordan Peele’s Get Out isn’t just a modern horror classic, it’s a cultural milestone. It redefined what the genre could be, weaving social commentary and psychological tension into a terrifying yet thought-provoking story. Daniel Kaluuya’s performance is extraordinary; he carries the film with subtlety and restraint, creating one of the most haunting portrayals of fear in recent memory. His stillness, micro-expressions, and gradual descent into panic make every moment feel painfully real. Get Out proves that horror doesn’t have to rely on jump scares; it can disturb through truth. Beneath its supernatural premise lies a deeply human story about vulnerability, manipulation, and identity.

• What can actors learn from Daniel Kaluuya’s performance in Get Out? Subtext is everything. Kaluuya plays terror with restraint, using his eyes and breath more than words. His control over every reaction and glance shows how much power can exist in restraint. 

5. Hereditary (2018) – Directed by Ari Aster
Few modern performances have stunned audiences like Toni Collette’s in Hereditary. Her portrayal of a grieving mother unraveling under supernatural pressure is raw, layered, and utterly fearless. She moves from quiet despair to uncontrollable rage and hysteria without ever losing emotional truth. Hereditary builds dread through atmosphere and tension rather than sudden scares. While there are a few startling moments, the film's scares are primarily psychological and unsettling, focusing on disturbing imagery and a sense of dread that builds over time.  

• What can actors learn from Toni Collette’s performance in Hereditary? Fear and grief are close cousins. Collette’s performance is a masterclass in emotional authenticity. Aspiring actors can study how she channels real human emotion into a heightened, fantastical context, making the unbelievable feel heartbreakingly real.

6. A Quiet Place (2018) – Directed by John Krasinski
In a film where silence means survival, acting takes on a new challenge. Emily Blunt and John Karsinski deliver deeply emotional and powerful performances, often without saying a word. They're ability to connect with each through their silent performances showcase real love and fear, even if married IRL, is outstanding and creates atmosphere that draws the audience in.

• What can actors learn from the performances in A Quiet Place?  Physical storytelling and non-verbal communication. This film is an incredible exercise in reacting, listening, and conveying thought through stillness. It demonstrates that performance doesn’t always rely on dialogue, it relies on intention, emotion and expression.

7. The Babadook (2014) – Directed by Jennifer Kent
The Babadook blurs the line between psychological horror and emotional realism. Essie Davis gives a haunting portrayal of Amelia Vanek, both terrifying and deeply moving, Davis delivers one of the most challenging performances put to screen with total commitment and credibility. The Babadook isn’t for the mainstream horror crowd. If you’re looking for jump scares or monsters, you won’t find them in The Babadook. Instead, the film dives deep into the raw emotion of fear itself, these aren’t things that make you scream; they’re the kind that make you unsettled, disturbed, and deeply human.

• What can actors learn from Essie Davis’s performance in The Babadook? Emotional honesty in chaos. Davis embodies the complexity of motherhood, exhaustion, and mental strain while playing in a heightened, symbolic story. It’s a brilliant example of grounding fantasy in real human struggle.

8. The Witch (2015) – Directed by Robert Eggers
Anya Taylor-Joy's breakout role in The Witch  shows a surprising amount of range and subtlety that heightens her presence. Set in 1630s New England, the film’s restrained pacing and archaic dialogue require complete immersion from its cast. Taylor-Joy’s emotional depth and intensity hold the entire film together. At first glance, the story might sound predictable, another tale of witchcraft and hysteria...but Robert Eggers crafts something far more haunting. Marketed as a “New England folktale,” the film blurs the lines between faith and fear, reality and delusion. It’s both a slow-burning psychological horror and a chilling study of how paranoia can tear a family apart.

• Why is The Witch a masterclass in subtle and authentic acting? The Witch is a masterclass in stillness, restraint, and period authenticity. Taylor-Joy’s performance shows how fear and strength can coexist in a single expression, while the ensemble’s naturalistic delivery proves that even the most stylised material works best when rooted in realism. For aspiring actors, it’s a reminder that horror is most powerful when the audience believes you completely.

9. Halloween (1978) – Directed by John Carpenter
A fitting name for a fitting film, no Halloween watchlist would be complete without it. Jamie Lee Curtis’s portrayal of Laurie Strode not only marked her feature film debut but also set the standard for the now-iconic “Final Girl” archetype. While being the daughter of horror legend Janet Leigh certainly connected her to the genre, Curtis’s performance stands entirely on its own. Her portrayal is intelligent and genuinely inspiring and although her later turn in Scream Queens is phenomenal, it’s in Halloween that she first proved survival doesn’t come from screaming...it comes from strength and sheer willpower, which she does so well. 

• How does Jamie Lee Curtis make Halloween feel so real? Play the ordinary, not the extraordinary. Curtis’s performance is rooted in realism. She never plays “scared”, she plays human. For actors, this is a reminder that horror works best when characters behave as real people would, not as stereotypes.

10. Midsommar (2019) – Directed by Ari Aster
​Another modern masterpiece, Midsommar showcases Florence Pugh’s extraordinary ability to internalise trauma and release it in unpredictable, haunting ways. More artsy in nature than typical horrors, it showcases some seriously stunning cinematography as well as a psychedelic genre-defying horror fable that wins its audience by creeping into our darkest corners of angst, longing, and loneliness. 
Florence Pugh captures isolation and anxiety so vividly that they feel tangible. As Dani, she delivers a performance of incredible range and commitment, perfectly embodying a lonely, desperate soul. Opposite her, Jack Reynor gives a strong, nuanced turn as the detached boyfriend, unlikeable yet complex enough to leave us conflicted.

• How does Florence Pugh transform emotionally in Midsommar? Embrace discomfort and transformation. Pugh’s work here shows how horror can be deeply psychological. Her performance is both devastating and empowering, offering a blueprint for portraying emotional breakdown with precision and truth.

The Evolution of Horror: From Scream Queens to Character Studies
In the early days of cinema, horror often relied on external shock value, jump scares, ghouls and monsters and exaggerated fear. But as audiences became more sophisticated, the genre shifted towards psychological realism. Modern horror explores grief, it explores mental illness, identity, social fear, all of our deepest and darkest fears, making it fertile ground for powerful and boundary pushing acting. 

From Dracula (1931) and Hereditary (2018) we have seen the shift from terrifying audiences through atmosphere to emotion, the shift from external to internal storytelling means actors must dig deeper into the psychology, emotions and intentions of their characters. Horror has become an essential genre for aspiring actors, it demands range, emotional bravery and vulnerability. 

How Horror Makes You a Better Actor

1. Emotional Depth: Horror requires raw, exposed emotion. Fear, grief, panic, loss, all often within a few scenes. Learning to access and control those states strengthens emotional agility.
2. Physical Awareness: From stillness to sudden bursts of movement, horror often depends on body language and spatial awareness. Actors learn how movement communicates tension.
3. Listening and Reacting: Great horror performances depend on reaction as much as action. The audience experiences fear through the actor’s eyes and breath.
4. Improvisation and Authenticity: Even the most surreal stories demand truth. The actor’s job is to ground fantasy in believable emotion.
5. Commitment: Horror doesn’t work without total commitment. If you hesitate, the illusion breaks. This level of conviction translates to all genres.

Why Every Actor Should Watch Horror
Acting in horror isn’t about pretending to be scared, it’s about understanding human fear. It’s about finding truth in chaos, control in panic, and connection in the most unlikely places. The genre has evolved from simple scares to deeply psychological storytelling that allows actors to explore their range, vulnerability, and intensity.
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So this Halloween, when you curl up with a blanket and a pumpkin-scented candle, think beyond the thrill. Study the performances. Observe how each actor sustains tension, how their body reacts before their voice does, and how they anchor extraordinary situations in real human emotion.
Because at its core, horror isn’t about monsters, it’s about us. And that’s exactly what makes it such a powerful teacher for any actor.

Horror films have definitely not gone under the radar this year. In fact, it almost feels like we’ve had more big horror titles release this year than we’ve had for a while. What does this say about the film industry in the UK and how might it affect you as an actor? We have seen many recent breakout stars who continue to thrive in the horror genre, and the huge impact that horror has had on their careers cannot go understated. 

Horror films don’t just release around October and spooky season anymore, as we’ve seen huge titles being dropped since the start of the year and still releasing now. Sinners, Weapons, Death of a Unicorn, Good Boy, 28 Years Later, Black Phone 2, The Conjuring: Last Rites, and M3GAN 2.0 just to name a few – and there are many more! 

Why are Horror films so popular?

Maybe not everyone likes horror films and going to the cinema only to be terrified and jumpscared… But it is undeniable that horror films are tremendously successful and continue to grow in popularity.

• The adrenaline rush
  

Similarly to the thrill of a rollercoaster ride or a bungee jump, horror films and the experience of being scared triggers the human fight or flight response. This is followed by an adrenaline rush that feels like excitement, ending with a cathartic release which feels almost like a reward in our brain. It feels good and satisfying, even if the ending of the film might not be a happy ending. 

• Tackling your fears in comfort
  

Film and horror experts have found that horror films can act as a psychological outlet that allows you to confront your fears in a controlled environment, where the walls between fiction and reality are drawn. It allows you to feel fear without feeling like you are in actual danger – and this is important for us and our ability to process difficult emotions like anxiety and grief.

• Flexibility of the genre
  

Another successful element of horror films is their ability to branch out into different subgenres and also mixing with other ones altogether. There are slashers, psychological horrors, body horrors – all of which are favoured by different audiences and can make you feel different ways rather than just screaming at jumpscares; you might prefer strong tension and a creepy atmosphere, or you like the element of discomfort created by hyperfocusing on the human body. Whatever it might be, there is something for everyone. And if you don’t like traditional horror, now there are horror comedies, horror musicals, romance…

• Social media presence
  

Platforms on social media such as TikTok, Instagram and YouTube are able to give birth to projects and entities that would have otherwise never been discovered. This is especially impactful for horrors, which are often low budget and made by more unknown filmmakers who may not have as many resources for marketing. Recent releases of horror films have gone viral online, such as Talk To Me, Terrifier, Longlegs, and Weapons – sparking discussion and theories circulating online and bringing buzz to the scene.

However, despite all of this, horror films and the genre as a whole has often been disregarded in the awards space and merely seen as cash grabs. In fact, out of all nominations for Best Picture at the Academy Awards over 95 years, only 7 of them have been horror films. Why are horror films so forgotten at awards ceremonies, and is this changing especially in recent times?

The Horror actors

Some actors just have ‘the look’ – whether it be an uncanny face, an iconic or unique appearance, creepy eyes, or an exceptional ability to cry or scream. Since the start of horror, there have been many notable names who have brought more popularity to the genre, or who have gained popularity because of it.

• Jenna Ortega
  

The most recent and discussed example of this is Jenna Ortega, who has starred in countless horror films over the years and has become known for playing in horror. Starring in X, Scream V and VI, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice and Wednesday has cemented Jenna Ortega as an actress who thrives in these types of roles. Jenna’s expressive acting and eyes evoke genuine fear and empathy from the audience, elements that are important for many horror protagonists.

• Willem Dafoe
  

An actor who has been around for longer but is also very prominent in the horror genre is Willem Dafoe. Having been in Robert Eggers’ The Lighthouse and very recently in the remake of the classic Dracula story in Nosferatu, Dafoe definitely has what it takes; the creepy uncanny look, the unsettling voice, and the ability to transform into weird and deformed characters.

• Mia Goth
  

Cementing her name in X, Pearl, and MaXXXine, Mia Goth has proved to the world that horror is her thing. It’s almost in her name… Similarly to Jenna Ortega but with a more sinister and unstable twist, Mia Goth is known for being a scream queen. Her expressive eyes and ability to portray characters who are twisted and psychologically immoral draw audiences to her fear, rage, and desperation.

Have Horror films changed over the years?

As horrors have been often found to match the fears and anxieties of the audiences watching them, it is to no surprise that they also act as a reflection of real life issues and societal concerns. Filmmakers can use the genre as a social commentary on the state of society at the time of the film’s release, and horror film depictions are often tragic, dystopian, and feel conclusive.

This has happened in storytelling since before cinema. Plays like Macbeth featured many horror aspects such as bloodshed, death and the supernatural. They mirrored people’s fears of unstable power and treacherous ambition – at a time when people were growing restless during the gunpowder plot of 1605. And since the early days of cinema, some of the most iconic classic horror films also came about at times of worry and fear. In the 1930s during the Great Depression, we had classics such as Frankenstein and Dracula. And even more recently, folk horrors especially have been seen to mirror people’s fear of loss of tradition and values, in titles such as Midsommar and The Witch. These show how horror as a genre can adhere to the time of its release and dramatically change over time.

In addition, with the development and improvement of technology and equipment over the years, films have gotten more serious and more concise in their storytelling. This has affected horror film tremendously, being a genre that is often limited to lower budget productions. Nowadays, even small and independent filmmakers and production teams are able to create very high quality horror films and shorts, giving horror as a genre more credibility and weight.

What this means for actors

There is more opportunity than ever for actors looking to audition for roles in the horror genre, especially around seasonal times. In the recent weeks, we have seen more and more casting calls for horror films, shorts, and TV shows; with spooky season coming up and shorter daylight hours making it easier to shoot in the dark. However, horror films aren’t exclusively tied to Halloween – we have seen successful releases in the genre no matter the month of the year.

With the public view on horror films changing constantly, it is definitely notable to point out that actors in the genre are becoming more and more noticed for their performances. As horror films get less ‘cheesy’ and more serious-toned, the talent working on these projects is now in the spotlight more than ever. It is often mentioned how horror films are forgotten during the awards season, but recently they have seen to be getting more recognition, with Get Out and The Substance even having Academy Award nominations for Best Picture.

Even outside of the mainstream and big studio hits, horror films are providing opportunities for actors who may only be starting out. Many young filmmakers and students make projects within the horror genre, as it is both a challenge to achieve gripping tension and to scare the audience; but also horrors are notoriously known for their low budgets and ability to rely on darkness and makeup to cover mistakes. Which is amazing news for any actors only just starting out or looking for opportunities on student and low budget films.

Horror films are here to stick around…

While some genres die and some become popular for only short periods of time, horror has been popular and has remained popular for decades. Audiences love to watch horrors, filmmakers love to make horrors, and actors love acting in them. And as we mentioned before, horror films have the unique ability to match the feelings and fears of the general public in the times they are made. The genre’s ability to evolve with time gives it the enduring appeal that it is known for, and we are sure horrors are going nowhere.

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Why has there been a rise in Independent Filmmaking?
Independent (or Indie) filmmaking is growing and thriving more than ever. A public demand for unique storytelling and perspective has led to a boom in feature and short films being produced not under a large company.
In August 1978, The Sundance Film Festival was founded by Robert Bedford with a goal of highlighting the potential of independent film in America. Since then, a plethora of film festivals and opportunities have sprouted all over the world leading to indie films becoming less of a niche and more of a celebration.
Furthermore, advancements in technology have made filmmaking more accessible than ever, presenting opportunity to those who may never have gotten the chance to be in the industry a few decades ago.
However, this is not only exciting for filmmakers, but also fantastic for new actors as more films presents so many more opportunities in a variety of ways. Indie filmmaking is both an uplifting and competitive industry centred on elevating talent.

Do Local Filmmakers hire Local Actors?
A rise in indie filmmaking has produced a surge of passion projects, including those wanting to tell a story from the heart based locally. This is great for new actors as casting directors will want local, authentic talent rather than a familiar face.
An infamous director for this is Ken Loach, whilst casting for his film “I, Daniel Blake” he scouted performers from the areas and background the film was based in due to his goal creating a social realism film rather than a blockbuster with the intention of profit. Many filmmakers also hold these ideas and want to represent local talent who may not be recognised by large companies when it comes to the casting process.
Hiring local actors also presents a practical advantage for filmmakers leading them to opt for new local talent. Less budget dedicated to travel, strong ambition and no anxiety around an inauthentic accent is likely to appeal to a film crew.

What type of actors are Indie Filmmakers looking for?
Without a conglomerate to provide funding, many independent films are considered low budget. This often leads filmmakers to opt in spending their budget on locations, set design or equipment rather than prioritising an all-star cast.
This creates a plethora of opportunity for actors looking to have their ‘big break’ or simply gain experience, not being driven by a large pay check.

Why do directors want new actors?
Conglomerate produced films are often driven by familiarity, relying on common tropes and household names to appeal to a wider audience. Independent filmmakers are often seeking something fresh, something that will change minds and perspectives, a perfect opportunity for a new actor.
An unknown actor in a major role creates no distraction for the audience and allows them to fully focus on the story and presents a great opportunity for the audience to recognise you as an actor. Furthermore, new actors are ideal for films where the aim is to create an identifiable character as to the audience, they are more likely to just seem like a regular person.

Is the environment different on an independent film?
Many independent filmmakers are going to be in the beginning or learning curve of their career, developing their creativity and problem solving as they go. This creates a perfect environment for growth and development from all parties involved, an independent filmmaker may also be likely to value the actor's creative input into the film.
Something key to the indie filmmaking industry is upcoming filmmakers wanting to support upcoming actors, a shared solidarity and drive for success. Acting in independent films can result in a friendship with the crew, inspiring them to employ you in more films helping you to build a network. This is perfect for career building opportunities as you prove yourself more on the screen and begin to build a positive reputation amongst filmmakers.

Do independent films present wider role opportunities?
Ideas are only becoming more unique and abstract with experimental film having an almost renaissance. Although it may seem daunting, a move away from mainstream, typical roles could be exactly what a new actor needs: a challenge or opportunity to demonstrate acting skills you never thought you'd have the opportunity to show.
Should I act in independent films even if that's not my main goal?
Absolutely. If your goal is acting in mainstream, blockbuster films then acting in independent films is a path many actors have taken – often getting scouted by casting directors.
For example, prior to her mainstream success, Lupita Nyong’o starred in the short film East River (2008) as her debut acting role which led to her breakthrough role in 12 Years A Slave (2013). Since then, she has had an extremely successful acting career in features such as Black Panther (2018), Us (2019) and A Quiet Place: Day One (2024).
Some actors also opt to return to independent film following their success in blockbuster films. For example, Christian Bale featured as the title character in The Machinist (2004) after his success in American Psycho (2000). This is likely due to the creative and unique appeal of the independent filmmaking industry, leading him to be more driven by passion.
A prime example of this is Daniel Radcliffe, since his breakthrough role in Harry Potter he has mainly featured in indie films. In an interview he stated that “I love that my career has gone the way it has – I get to do a bit of everything”. He has featured in films such as Swiss Army Man (2016) and most recently starred in Weird: The Al Yankovic Story. This only goes to show how the benefits of independent filmmaking can surpass the need for a bundle of profit from acting and how indie films can inspire actors to thrive creatively and pursue exactly what they want.
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In conclusion...
A rise in independent filmmaking is a rise in opportunities for a wide variety of actors, roles and experiences and are undoubtedly terrific for new actors. Even if indie films may not seem your type of thing, it’s unquestionably worth trying and can be impactful for your acting portfolio.
Theres a variety of ways to get involved, however some are less likely to use mainstream sites such as Spotlight and may be accessible through Facebook or other social media so stay vigilant!

With the excitement and joy of receiving your first offer or callback for a role, you can often overlook warning signs that tell you that the job may not seem as legit as it tries to make you think. There are many scam sites, casting calls, and fake agents trying to prey on starting actors who are desperately looking for their first opportunity. However, it is important to stay safe online and know when to back out if things are looking fishy.

What are some common acting scam methods?

There are many different ways that scammers can attempt to steal your personal information or take money from you but not deliver their promised product. Whilst this is not an exhaustive list, many of these methods may be re-used by other and newer tactics. Here are some common acting scams that you should avoid:

• Upfront pay

Pay-to-play auditions are a common example of this: often, scammers will ask for payment for “VIP” opportunities or “exclusive auditions” or casting calls. This is almost certainly a scam, as legitimate casting directors will always keep auditions free as they favour finding exceptional talent for their project over financial benefit from the casting process itself. In addition, it is free for agencies to submit talent and to send auditions on reputable acting websites such as Spotlight, Backstage, Starnow and Mandy. While some of these platforms, like Spotlight, do charge membership fees, this is not a scam, these fees are simply to give actors access to verified, professional opportunities that wouldn’t otherwise be publicly available.

Managers and casting agents taking upfront pay is also something to avoid, as casting agents earn a commission on jobs that you land, and therefore it is safe to avoid anyone asking for a payment before any work is carried out, more on this later.

• Guaranteed promises

No matter what connections someone may have in the industry, they can never promise callbacks and acting opportunities for everyone attending their class. Acting classes are great for networking and working on your skills, but they can not guarantee work opportunities. The industry-standard casting process is very structured and involves many rounds of casting directors and agents searching for the perfect talent, and sending out callbacks and auditions. With hundreds of actors being suggested for each role, it is impossible for a class leader to promise work in the industry even after completing their paid service.

• Fake casting director emails

You may be sending out applications and auditions day and night and not hearing anything back. Suddenly, you receive an email or DM from a supposed casting director who found you online and thinks your skills perfectly match who they are looking for. These scams will try their best to make you feel special and prey on your dreams of wanting to make it big, and might consistently email you back even if you ignore them. Often, they will request your personal information, or possibly even a payment for attending an audition or showcase - this is to be avoided! Real casting directors will only reach out in a professional manner and will not ask you for bank details or upfront payments.

• Extra payment packages

You’ve landed a contract or casting opportunity, but now you have to pay extra fees for travel expenses, extra classes or showcase events. Whereas this may not always be a scam, it is good to be careful and research the packages and what they offer, as well as their legitimacy through online reviews. Also, it may be worth considering how much you will get for the price you are paying and if the offer will be of substantial help for the development of your career! There are many legitimate classes and services that provide the experiences that they promise but for very high prices - it may be useful to see what people are saying online, as often more affordable services may be getting recommended.

Compulsory headshot and reel services are also red flags to look out for. A “professional” on their team might be in charge of checking over everyone’s headshots and making it compulsory for you to have new headshots taken using their own photographer, often for a high price. No legitimate service will force you to have your headshots taken by one specific service, as there are many professional Spotlight-approved photographers who can take your headshots. However, many legitimate acting classes and agencies will have ties to photographers and editors, or possibly even have them in-house, but will not enforce compulsory use of their services. For example, at IPM, we can offer reliable headshots, self-tape and showreel services at an affordable price if you require help with them!

How do you spot a fake agency or acting class?

If you are thinking of applying for a job, paying for an acting class, or attending auditions for a casting call that you think sounds a bit fishy, it is a good idea to do some research around the names involved in the project on reputable sites such as IMDb. Search the casting director’s name and read online feedback to see if other people are saying anything about the service you are looking to join, or pay for.

Legitimate acting agencies and classes will have active social media presence, transparency about the services it provides and for what pricing, and reliable contact details including a phone number and business email. Check what they have been up to on their Instagrams, YouTubes, Twitter/X, and Facebook. See if people have been commenting on their posts, and if they are viewed as a good and reliable service. There should be more focus on what the opportunity can provide for you in terms of growth and development, rather than how the service can make money from you signing up!

Often, it may be the case that the scammer is also paying for positive reviews online to push out negative reviews left by real users. How can you know that what you’re reading is the truth? You can trust your own judgement by looking at the dates the reviews were posted, the usernames, and the type of language used, or search for community discussions with real users. A lot of the time, searching online if a site is a scam could also result in trusted articles having been written about these websites, such as TVWaterCooler or reputable news sources. As well as this, you can search the official companies house to see if the business is officially registered and what year it was registered - or check the legitimacy of the site domain and email addresses using online tools.

As well as this, look for red flags in the agency’s actions such as spelling and grammar mistakes in emails and messages, not referring to you by your real name, including lots of links in emails, and asking for personal details or even payment. If a payment is required, ask questions - what is the payment for? Who will be taking the payment? Is there a written agreement? Often, a scam service will back out and avoid answering these questions. And when sending payments via PayPal, make sure you select “Goods and Services” so that you can get a refund in the case of a scam.

Do talent agencies ask for money upfront?

The short answer is no. Casting agents and talent agencies make money when you make money, meaning they take on average a 10-20% commission on jobs and opportunities that you receive. Avoid agents that ask for payment before any work is undertaken. You can also verify if a talent agency is recognised in acting unions as a member, or search names on IMDb to check for professional credits.

What are the red flags for casting calls?

You’ve avoided all of the scams we have mentioned above, you have had professional headshots taken and a showreel displaying your skills as an actor, and you’re now ready to search through casting calls and audition for roles - what else can you look out for to keep yourself safe? Whilst many casting calls are posted by industry professionals and casting directors, anyone can post a casting call even on sites such as Backstage. Although these casting calls are screened and approved, it is still good to avoid certain breakdowns that seem fishy - especially if you are looking at casting calls on social media such as Instagram, TikTok or on Facebook groups where absolutely anyone can post anything! Here are some red flags on casting calls to watch out for:

• Upfront payments

Once again, it is best to avoid any casting calls that request any payment from you before any work is being carried out. This includes any fees for auditioning or registering, having to pay for headshots or showreels, or paying a talent manager or agent upfront.

• No mention of the production company or team

A professional production will be transparent and always mention the people involved in the production, including the production company or prominent names such as the director, producer, and the casting director. This allows you to do research about them and check their authenticity on reputable sites. 

• Vague role and project descriptions

You need to know what role you are playing, and trustworthy casting calls will detail the character with information about their personality, age range, and any specific extra information required. The shooting days and location are also important in displaying that the production is well organised and prepared for the shoot, and also to allow the actors to check their availability before applying! Although specific shoot days might yet to be decided, there should be an idea of when shooting will take place and where. If any of this information is missing or very vague, it comes off as lazy and unprofessional, and might end up being a scam.

• No compensation

This includes compensation other than just payment, as there are many reliable low-budget productions that may not have the funds to pay actors. However, anyone posing as an industry professional should have their contract and payment compensation laid out in detail, including the rate you will be paid and any extra fees such as wardrobe days, rehearsal, or transport fees. Transparency is important! On unpaid projects such as student films, if the roles aren’t paid it is at the very least expected for there to be compensation for travel and food - you shouldn’t have to offer up both your time and money for an unpaid project! It is best to avoid casting calls that only mention an “amazing opportunity” or “showreel piece”.

How can you report a scam?

If you have been subject to a scam or think you have come across a scam service, it may be useful to make a report to prevent them from operating in the future. You can do this on the official Action Fraud police website.

If you have made any payments for a scam service, it may be worth to see if you are able to get a refund - this is possible if you paid through PayPal’s “goods and services” option. If you paid through direct debit, you may be able to contact your bank and get a refund via the Direct Debit guarantee, and even if you paid with your credit or debit card it may still be possible to reach out to your bank and request a refund.

But it’s not all gloom and doom…

Whereas it may sometimes feel impossible to find a job or a reliable service with the amount of acting scams circulating online these days, there are numerous amazing classes, casting calls, and agencies operating professionally who provide great services for actors who are just starting out. If you approach opportunities waringly, carry out appropriate research about the names involved, read about the company and what public users are saying about it, and stay safe when sending payments, it is very possible to get signed on the books by a casting agent. Your dream job is waiting for you just around the corner!

No matter how much you work on the surface level techniques as an actor for a role, if there is no psychological truth, the performance is lost. Understanding how a character thinks, feels and perceives the world is what separates a good performance from an unforgettable one. Learning the psyche of a character isn’t an optional layer when building a character. It is what makes a character feel real, human and flawed.
Below are insights from research, real actor practice using well known practitioners and actionable guidance so you can learn how to bring psychological truth and authenticity to your performances.

Embodying Others, Discovering The Self
Emotional Expressiveness, Dissociation, Empathy & Flow
● Actors are usually highly emotional and expressive people, allowing them to access and portray a wide range of feelings convincingly. This trait aligns with the concept of most actors having strong emotional intelligence, involving awareness, regulation, and utilisation of emotions in social situations.
● Dissociation is seen to be more of a common trait amongst actors than those who don’t act, subscaling on imaginative involvement which seems to be the centre of why actors have the ability to get completely lost in a character.
● Successful actors often have a strong sense of empathy, allowing them to deeply understand and connect with the emotions and motivations of a character. The capacity to see the world through different perspectives is a fundamental trait and skill that allows method acting to work and character development to fully be embodied.
● Flow is a related concept, describing a state of mind in which one is fully present and is absent of self consciousness. When operating in flow, an actor is able to fully immerse themselves in the moment, allowing the character’s psychology to emerge instinctively.

So psychologically embodying a character while portraying complete truth and natural instinct is based on imaginative involvement and flow: allowing your mind to fully believe in the fictional world and allowing yourself to be entirely in the moment. It is also heavily based on empathy: not only understanding what the character feels but feeling it too, whilst being able to completely detach from yourself to fully immerse in an entirely different identity without losing your ground.

How Actors Master Their Craft: Authentic Examples From The Field ‘To Live’ In A Role Rather Than ‘Perform’: The Stanislavski Method
Konstantin Stanislavski’s System transformed the acting industry when he provided a structured, repeatable approach to character connection, allowing new actors to understand how they can create more emotionally authentic and believable characters. Instead of relying on transient inspiration, his technique instead guides performers to explore their characters’ inner lives more deeply, using motivations and objectives through conscious techniques and careful observation to build honest characters.
Encouraging actors to draw on their own experiences and fully immerse themselves in the character’s “given circumstances,” Stanislavski’s system brings nuanced emotional truth to the screen and stage. Additionally, understanding the script’s underlying ‘subtext’ allows actors to reveal hidden emotions and intentions, enriching their performances with subtlety and depth.
Today, Stanislavski’s method remains the foundation of modern actor training, shaping compelling performances that continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
Some examples of actors who use this technique are:
● Al Pacino in 1992’s Scent of a Woman where he played a blind man. He prepared for the role by asking for advice from the sight impaired, as well as attending a school for the blind, living his life as if he lost his sight and requested for the crew to treat him as if he were a blind person.
● Robert De Niro is known to be one of the most famous method actors. In 1976’s Taxi Driver he worked for hours as a taxi driver to study their behaviour. In the 1980’s Raging Bull De Niro played the role of toned boxer Jake LaMotta where he weight trained extensively before and during production.
● Daniel Day-Lewis is known to stay in character for months to fully commit to his roles. In 1989’s My Left Foot Daniel Day-Lewis played Christy Brown who was a writer and painter with Cerebral Palsy and was only able to use his left foot. To prepare he spent time in a cerebral palsy clinic but also had members of the crew carry him around on set and feed him food whilst also remaining in a wheelchair throughout the production.

Stanislavski’s method, also known as ‘method acting,’ is not for everyone, although used by many well known actors. Sometimes the excessiveness of pouring yourself into a role and acting like them for months can cause psychological damage. So understanding the technique in all its glory can allow actors to use this method safely by taking out things that work and the things that do not. Acting is subjective and it all comes down to what works for you.

Beyond The Basics: Other Practitioners Worth Looking At Stella Adler – Taught by Stanislavski himself, she developed her own method through his teachings alongside Lee Strasberg's teachings too. Adler's acting technique is all about using the imagination to bring a character to life, instead of just digging into your own feelings and memories. It means getting deep into the script, doing research and picturing the character’s world with all the little details, questioning what they see, hear, and feel. The idea is to fully step into the character’s shoes and focus on what they want and do, so that the performance feels real and honest.
Sanford Meisner – Meisner, who worked with Lee Strasberg and Stella Adler at The Group Theatre, taught his students to “live truthfully under given imaginary circumstances.” Just like Stanislavski, Strasberg and Adler, what differs his technique from the rest is the practical and dynamic approach to acting that helps actors tap into truthful, instinctive, and authentic reactions by getting them “out of their heads” and fully into the moment. At its core, the powerful principle of “acting truthfully under imaginary circumstances” is brought to life through exercises like the famous Repetition Exercise. This method champions active listening, keen observation and using the world around you to inspire spontaneous, living performances which move beyond relying on memories and instead embrace the energy of the present moment.
Michael Chekhov – Known as Stanislavski’s ‘star student,’ Chekhov created an acting method that emphasises the mind-to-body connection allowing authentic and compelling performances to flourish. This technique encourages actors to tap into their imagination and subconscious mind by using tools like psychological gestures, imaginary body and exploring different qualities of movement. This approach helps actors fully embody a character’s inner life and being without being limited by their own personality. It’s a creative and intuitive method that goes beyond purely analytical acting, empowering actors to bring a fresh and artistic approach to their craft.
Uta Hagen – The Uta Hagen technique, often called “Respect for Acting,” is all about bringing realism to performance by tapping into your own experiences like the Stanislavski method, to connect with your character’s emotions and situation. This happens through her process called substitution or transference. The method includes a six step character analysis, exercises like the “two minutes of daily life,” and she emphasises staying truthful in imagined scenarios to deliver authentic and believable performances.
Viola Spolin – Spolin’s method uses improv, including “theatre games,” to help actors be more spontaneous and more trusting when it comes to their instincts and allows actors to learn how to stay in the moment. Instead of stressing about doing everything perfectly, it’s all about playing and reacting naturally. These fun, structured games allow actors to get better at making real-time choices without overthinking or judging themselves. The technique focuses on teamwork in a chill, no-pressure, no-judgment environment where everyone can be creative and connect honestly.

Embracing The Craft: Helpful Techniques And Exercises To Put Into Practice 
Konstantin Stanislavski

• Given Circumstances / Magic If – Ask “what would I do if I were in this situation?” Use it to build truthful reactions.
• Objectives & Actions – Break the script into beats then define what the character wants in each objective.
• Emotional Memory – Recall personal experiences to trigger real emotions, but a safer way to do this is understanding and acknowledging what the character feels then recalling an imaginative experience to bring forward the familiar feelings.

Stella Adler

• Imagination Over Emotional Recall – Create rich and imaginary worlds by visualising every detail of your character’s surroundings and responding to it as if you were them.
• Circumstances Research – Study the historical, cultural and environmental background of the script for deeper character work.
• Action Based, Script Analysis – Define clear physical actions that reflect character intentions.

Sanford Meisner

• Repetition Exercise – Partners repeat observations about each other, focusing on truthful reaction and presence.
• Independent Activity – Perform a complex physical task while engaging truthfully with a scene partner.
• Moment To Moment Work – Train to respond truthfully in the present rather than planning reactions.

Michael Chekhov

• Psychological Gesture – Create a physical movement that captures your character's main desire or emotion.
• Atmosphere & Imaginary Body – Use physical and environmental imagination to alter your inner state.
• Radiating & Receiving – Practice sending energy out to your scene partner and receiving theirs to build connection.

Uta Hagen

• Substitution/Transference – Selectively use personal experiences to connect emotionally with the character's circumstance.
• Object Exercises – Practice detailed actions like mopping the floors to increase realism.
• “Who Am I?” Questions – Deep self inquiry to develop layered and authentic characterisations.

Viola Spolin

• Improvisation/Theatre Games – Use games like ‘Yes and’ or ‘Space Walk’ to develop spontaneity and ensemble awareness.
• Focus On The ‘Problem’ Not The Result – Give your partner a specific challenge to solve through the script rather than directing emotion.
• Side Coaching – Have a partner coach you during performance to keep you present and alert.

How To Implement This Effectively

• Build A Routine – Pick 1–2 exercises from each practitioner to explore over time.
• Mix & Match – Different techniques can be used together depending on the needs for the role.
• Reminder – These techniques are to be used during the rehearsal period or pre-production time. When on set and they call ‘Action,’ forget everything and dive into the role - the work you put in beforehand will show during your performance. Don’t overthink, just be and remember to take risks!

Concerns & Cautions
Psychological work is deeply impactful, yet requires great sensitivity. There is risk of emotional exhaustion when it comes to tapping into deep empathy, emotional memory and immersion as it can be draining and sometimes harmful if it is not managed. Creating and having methods that help you return to yourself after a scene is crucial.
Sometimes there can also be a blur between self and character as some actors often report feeling as if they’ve fused themself with the character, which is enriching in performance but risky for personal mental health. Make sure to stay aware whilst implementing and maintaining boundaries with yourself.
There's a tendency with some actors to overthink and over prepare for roles, meaning intellectualising too much can kill spontaneity and instinct. This makes the performance feel planned and forced. Preparation should be the support to instinctive choice, not the reason it stifles it.

Summarised Psychological Framework

• Start With Empathy – Understand your character's inner world: past, present, wants, needs, fears.
• Build Beliefs And Internal Logic – What beliefs drive the character? What are the contradictions or wounds that define them? Always have a backstory even if you aren’t given one — understanding your character from start to present is crucial in giving an honest performance.
• Embodied Truth – Let your voice, gestures and movement arise from within, allowing the body and mind to align in harmony.
• Stay In The Moment – Rehearsing, training, letting go and being open to the energy of others allows instinct to lead when you perform.
• Self Care & Boundaries – Learn how to disconnect yourself from the character to protect your psyche.

Stay safe, work hard, but remember to have fun!

As an actor, working in comedy may not seem as character driven as dramas, thrillers, and romance, but good characters are vital to good comedy. We’re not just laughing at the funny scenario, we’re laughing because of what that character is doing in relation to that funny scenario. Comedic characters can be just as well-rounded and nuanced as any other characters.
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Spaced – how to create relatable characters
Spaced balances the relatability of being a 20-something with the surrealness of, well, being a 20-something. It’s near-impossible to make a highlights list of the characters in this show because they’re all so good. Each one has their ultra-specific mannerisms and interests and unique tones of voice. Stellar writing of these characters is amplified by incredible performances tied into Edgar Wright’s distinct directing. It’s a cocktail of comedy perfection. Jessica Hynes (at the time Jessica Stevenson) as Daisy Stiener, for me, is a stand out performance. Every decision she makes as an actor is emotionally and comedically excellent. She balances the over-the-top, frequently excitable nature of Daisy while keeping the character grounded and relatable in an ever so wacky world. She embodies the kind of person brimming with aspiration but lacking the motivation to actually achieve those goals. But at no point do we stop rooting for her, despite her evident lack of focus and aversion to responsibility. Hynes plays Daisy so full of heart, charm, and relatability that we’re by her side through it all, laughing at her downfalls and cheering at her accomplishments. She feels like our best friend, or maybe just ourselves.


The Young Ones – how to be physically comedic
The Young Ones core four characters lean heavily into stereotypes of students in the 80s – stereotypes that still hold up to this day. You have Vyvyan the violent punk, Rik the wannabe anarchist-marxist, Neil the pessimistic hippie, and Mike the Cool Guy acting as the Straight Man in the show. In comedy, stereotypes are used and exaggerated to create larger-than-life characters, and highlight pre-existing notions of people that an audience has. As an actor, it’s important to take into consideration how far you want to take that, working with the director on this. Ade Edmonson plays the borderline-psychotic Vyvyan. His use of physical comedy, from big stunts to even the way he holds himself, makes Vyvyan such a fascinating and hilarious character to watch. Exaggerated movements and theatrics are naturally over the top but are done in a way that makes them look almost natural. We believe that this is just how Vyvyan acts. Playing nuances of the rare calmer emotions of Vyvyan without seeming out of place or out of character. Like in the episode Oil when Vyvyan gets a pickaxe through the skull and this loud and brash character becomes momentarily calm and quiet… before passing out.


Here We Go – how to balance comedy and emotions
Here We Go follows a slightly dysfunctional family navigating the trials and tribulations of modern life, and the bizarre scenarios they find themselves in, through the camera of their documentary-making teenage son. While primarily a mockumentary comedy, the show deals with the troubles the characters go through in their day to day – heartbreak, regret, pain, insecurity. There are times when the mood mellows and these comedic and silly characters have serious beats. Comedies may have rarer moments of seriousness: as an actor it’s important to balance the hysterics with the serious, and ensure that neither come off too unnatural. If the audience can never take you seriously, then emotional moments won’t land correctly. Freya Parks plays Amy Jessop, the cynical and sarcastic daughter of the family. Park’s delivery is usually quite deadpan and mellow, but played for comedic effect. In more serious moments for Amy, like her on and off relationship with girlfriend Maya and frustrations about her future, Park’s is able to distinct that mellowness from the comedic cynicism of Amy into something more emotional and serious.


The League of Gentlemen – don’t be afraid to look silly
Cult classic comedy The League of Gentleman features a variety of strange and unappealing characters, in both looks and personality. These characters are the butt of the joke and the ones the audience is laughing at. As an actor in comedy, you have to be comfortable with looking and being utterly ridiculous and ridiculed. You’re not the Hollywood hotshot, you’re the court jester. Reece Shearsmith and Steve Pemberton play couple Tubbs and Edward Tattysyrup who run a “local shop for local people”. They have exaggerated, up-turned noses, akin to a pig, and dirty, misshapen teeth. They are definitely not the picture of attraction but that is the point. Comedy is often about looking absolutely stupid, whether that be through physical comedy, or in this case costume, hair and makeup.


The Thick of It – comedy in chaos
The Thick of It is rather tense for a laugh out loud comedy. The characters, while in chaotic and high tension situations, stay fascinating and full-bodied, true to their motivations and quirks. The show was filmed rather unconventionally, with actors not particularly rehearsing scenes but rather moving where they feel for the characters in the moment. The cameras would then follow them around and try to keep up with the action of the scene. This collaboration of the actors, directors, and camera operators created very realistic scenes dripping with chaos. Speaking on the filming experience, Peter Capaldi said “The cameras had to follow us. They didn’t have any preparation. They wouldn’t know where anyone was going. A scene would tend to go on for ages. When they said cut, you’d be exhausted.” The infamous Malcolm Tucker played by the aforementioned Peter Capaldi is truly unpredictable. Capaldi embodies the character from head to toe that it’s hard not to become intimidated just by looking at him. The excellent delivery of witty insults and unhinged rampages created a character that seemed almost too insane to be real, but played realistically enough to be believable. This performance in tandem with the unique filming style makes the audience really feel like they are watching this, as if they were a fly on the shaking walls of a chaotic parliamentary building.


This Way Up – how do comedy and drama work together
This Way Up deals with very serious issues regarding mental health, relationships, and family – typical drama show themes dealt with with the weight they have – through a comedic lens. Centering around English teacher Aine, who’s trying to rebuild her life after a nervous breakdown, and her sister Shona, who’s trying to deal with her currently busy personal and work life alongside looking after her sister Aine. The show can make you cry as well as laugh. Serious scenes play out alongside hilarious scenes. It’s hard to remember the show was making you tear up with sadness when you see Aine and Shona’s peer-pressured rendition of Zombie by The Cranberries at a family party. Aisling Bea perfectly plays the main character Aine. Her wit and self-deprecation mask the mental turmoil she’s feeling. Her slightly destructive and occasionally misguided decisions are laughable though sometimes a representation of her unstable mental state. Bea walks across the tightrope between tragic and hilarious in Aine, pulling the wool over the eyes of the audience in her attempt to do so with her family and friends. It’s a brilliant portrayal of a deeply funny but troubled character, navigating a narrative that makes you cry tears of joy and tears of sadness.


What to take away, as a comedic actor
Comedy is more than just jokes, as an actor. You have to remember not everything that is happening to your character is inherently funny to them. It’s their involvement, responses, reactions, and actions that create the humour. Comedic characters are just as complex and important as dramatic characters. Sometimes they can go hand in hand (think dramedies). But comedy parts should be treated with just as much thought, just for a different reason – it’s for humour, not tension. Be bold! Look ridiculous! Step outside of your comfort zone. Don’t be afraid to make yourself laughable. Sometimes, even as the protagonist, the audience are rooting for your shortcomings. Have fun. Comedy is fun. It’s meant to be amusing. Try new things, new techniques, new styles, new deliveries. Oftentimes, this is a place where you can be over the top.