No, actors generally do not experience genuine feelings when kissing for a role.
Understanding the Actor's Perspective on Kissing Scenes
Kissing scenes in movies or plays are not romantic encounters but rather a performance, much like a fight scene or a dance number. The goal is to create a believable moment for the audience, not to express real emotion between actors.
Key Factors Affecting the Kissing Experience for Actors:
- It's a Job: As noted in the provided reference, "Kissing people in plays or films is not like kissing people in what's sometimes referred to as 'real life.'" The emphasis is on professionalism and performing the scene as directed.
- Performance over Emotion: The main objective is to "kiss people in a way that looks convincing." This requires actors to focus on technique, blocking, and character portrayal rather than personal feelings.
- Similar to Action Scenes: The process is comparable to fighting an actor, where choreography and safety are paramount, rather than actual aggression or personal animosity.
- Lack of Personal Connection: Since the kissing is part of a job, actors often don't have any real connection or feelings towards their kissing partners outside of their working relationship. The experience is focused on performance, not personal intimacy.
Why Actors Don't Experience "Real" Feelings:
Actors approach kissing scenes with a technical perspective, breaking down the act into:
- Blocking: Knowing where to stand and how to move during the scene.
- Camera Angles: Being aware of how the kiss will appear on screen.
- Character Motivation: Understanding why their character is kissing this person.
- Emotional Representation: Focusing on expressing the character’s emotions rather than feeling them personally.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Real-Life Kissing | Acting Kissing |
|---|---|---|
| Motivation | Personal Affection | Professional Performance |
| Objective | Expression of Feeling | Convincing Portrayal |
| Connection | Deep Emotional Bond | None or Limited |
| Experience | Personal and Intimate | Technical and Choreographed |
Conclusion
While actors may experience some physical sensations, the act of kissing on screen is predominantly a professional performance rather than a genuine expression of emotion. The focus remains on acting, not on personal feelings.
