Julia Stiles shares acting tips she has learned while working in Hollywood.
Julia Stiles, celebrated for her iconic roles in films like 10 Things I Hate About You, Save the Last Dance, and Mona Lisa Smile (2003), as well as the Bourne series, offers timeless advice for actors at any stage of their careers. Her insights, drawn from years of experience in romantic comedies, action-packed thrillers, and theater productions, are invaluable for those looking to refine their craft.
Speaking with Interview, Stiles talks about how her approach to acting has changed over her years as a teen actress. Stiles worked on several popular movies in the 1990s and early 2000s including 10 Things I Hate About You and O. Over time she has learned the differences in theater vs. film acting. She explains as a film actor, all of the power is in the director’s hands. She explains, “With film, so much is in the director’s hands. Once something is cut together—unless you’re in the editing room—you don’t really remember what the alternatives are. The exercise in theater is night after night you are doing the same play, but you have another opportunity to explore. It changes nightly even because of the audience and your day going into the evening of the performance. With film it’s much more controlled.”
Apparently, Stiles was no longer interested in acting until she tried working in theater and working behind the camera. She reveals, “I did a run of a play over the summer in a really tiny theater in New York and that was rejuvenating for me. I directed a short series for Hulu called Paloma and being in an editing room, I learned a lot about acting. It gave me a new bolt of energy in terms of my interest in filmmaking because it made me realize how collaborative filmmaking can be and also that you’re not just limited to one job. Actors can write and produce too. Then when I was working on Jason Bourne—having had that experience—instead of going back to my trailer and being separate from everyone else, I would sit behind the monitor and watch Paul Greengrass work and be much more included in the process. That was new for me and really enriching.”
After directing several projects, Stiles is more aware of the type of directors she prefers to work with in Hollywood. She says, “I like a director who is very observant and is watching what I’m doing and noticing what I’m doing, but is giving me time to figure it out. They don’t jump right in and give you a note before you’ve had time to really search on your own with how to do a scene. I like a director that encourages me to be playful. I don’t really like being restricted or controlled by a director.”
Commit to Lifelong Learning
Julia Stiles believes that no matter how successful an actor becomes, the journey of growth never ends. She emphasizes the importance of continuously seeking opportunities to expand one’s skillset and knowledge. Whether it’s by attending acting workshops, taking up new techniques, or studying the performances of seasoned actors, there’s always room for improvement. For Stiles, staying curious and maintaining a student mindset are keys to staying relevant and adaptable in an ever-evolving industry.
One of her personal achievements highlights this dedication—graduating from Columbia University while maintaining a demanding acting career. Balancing academics and acting required not only discipline but also a strong desire to grow beyond the craft. This experience didn’t just enrich her as an individual; it gave her a deeper understanding of the world, which she brought back to her performances.
She also stresses that learning doesn’t have to be formal. Watching performances from classic actors, diving into the works of Shakespeare, or even exploring modern storytelling through indie films can be transformative. Aspiring actors can take inspiration from Stiles’ ability to continuously integrate her learning into her craft, proving that education—formal or informal—is a cornerstone of creative longevity.
Adapt to Film and Theater’s Unique Demands
Julia Stiles has thrived in both film and theater, and she’s quick to note how different the two mediums are in terms of performance and preparation. For actors aspiring to transition between these worlds, understanding their unique demands is crucial.
In film, much of the actor’s contribution lies in serving the director’s vision. Scenes are often shot out of order, requiring performers to maintain emotional continuity without the natural progression a theater performance provides. Moreover, the final product is ultimately shaped during post-production, meaning an actor’s work on set is only one piece of the puzzle. Stiles stresses that being adaptable and trusting the director’s vision are essential skills for film actors.
Theater, on the other hand, offers actors the chance to take complete ownership of their performance. Night after night, they have the opportunity to refine and evolve their portrayal based on audience reactions and personal growth. Stiles points out that this can be both exhilarating and challenging—there are no second takes, and the actor must be fully present in the moment.
Stiles’ ability to move seamlessly between these mediums is a testament to her versatility as an actor. She cites working with co-stars like Heath Ledger, who also demonstrated this adaptability, as a source of inspiration. Ledger’s approach to blending intensity and vulnerability, whether in film or live performances, is an example of how mastering both mediums can elevate an actor’s craft.
Reignite Passion Through New Experiences
Even the most passionate actors can experience burnout or feel creatively unfulfilled. Julia Stiles understands this firsthand and shares how stepping outside her comfort zone helped her rediscover her love for acting. When she felt her career had reached a plateau, she chose to direct and return to theater—a decision that completely changed her perspective.
Directing the Hulu series Paloma was a turning point. It allowed her to see storytelling from a new angle, focusing on the bigger picture instead of just her own role. This experience not only gave her fresh creative energy but also deepened her appreciation for the collaborative nature of filmmaking.
Theater, too, played a pivotal role in reigniting her passion. The immediacy and intimacy of performing live reminded her of why she fell in love with acting in the first place. Unlike film, where the director and editor have significant control, theater gave her the freedom to fully explore her character in real time.
Stiles isn’t alone in this. Co-stars like Sean Patrick Thomas, who worked with her in Save the Last Dance, have also sought out diverse roles and creative opportunities to keep their love for acting alive. These experiences show that stepping into new challenges—whether it’s directing, producing, or exploring different genres—can breathe new life into an acting career.
Work With Collaborative Directors
A strong director-actor relationship can make or break a performance, and Julia Stiles has been fortunate to work with some of the best. She deeply values directors who encourage exploration and give actors the freedom to experiment. Rather than imposing rigid constraints, collaborative directors create a space where creativity can flourish.
This collaborative spirit was crucial in her portrayal of Kat Stratford in 10 Things I Hate About You. The character’s complexity—both defiant and deeply vulnerable—required Stiles to take risks and explore multiple facets of Kat’s personality. With the support of her director, she was able to bring an unforgettable, layered performance to life.
Stiles believes that the best directors are also great listeners. They recognize the unique perspective each actor brings to a role and foster an environment where everyone feels comfortable contributing ideas. This dynamic not only enhances the individual performance but elevates the entire production.
For aspiring actors, working with directors who value collaboration can be a transformative experience. It’s an opportunity to experiment, grow, and bring authenticity to a role. As Stiles’ career demonstrates, finding and embracing these partnerships can lead to some of the most rewarding performances of an actor’s life.
Via Interview
Additional Tips to Elevate Your Career:
- Watch classic performances, including adaptations like Taming of the Shrew, the inspiration for 10 Things I Hate About You.
- Study genre-specific techniques, whether for romantic comedies or intense dramas like the Bourne Identity.
Julia Stiles’ advice is a reminder that acting is a lifelong journey of discovery. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your craft, her tips can inspire and guide you toward a fulfilling career.
Key Takeaways for Aspiring Actors:
- Embrace continuous learning, just as Stiles balanced Columbia University and Hollywood.
- Understand the differences between live theater and film acting.
- Stay creative by exploring new roles or stepping into directing.
- Collaborate with directors who encourage experimentation.
FAQs:
1. How can I start a career in acting? Begin by taking acting classes, building a network in your local industry, and creating a professional portfolio.
2. What should I focus on as a beginner? Master the fundamentals, such as body language and voice control, and study successful actors like Julia Stiles.
3. How do I handle rejection? Learn from every experience. Even Stiles faced challenges before landing iconic roles like Kat Stratford.
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