Actors, is it irritating for you when written dialogue includes ems, and ums, and little repeats of words, as one would do in real life? Is it harder to memorize the lines? Would you rather ad-lib these? Is there a some way to indicate in the script that actor should go ahead and to add those in at their own discretion?
Acting : Question about dialogue for actors by S.B. Goncarova
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1 person likes this
I've never seen verbal interjections "ems or ums" in a script. "Uh," or "You know" sometimes shows up. But the ems and ums shouldn't be included.
I would concur with Christopher Phillips - unless it's important to the response (or "non-negotiable"), I wouldn't include it. I definitely prefer to ad-lib them as a natural response to the situation. No need to direct the actors as a writer, really.
I think the bigger question is - is it important? If you're thinking of things like Dumb and Dumber or Dude, Where's My Car? then you could make it a running gag that a character starts every question with variations of "Uh..." or ends every statement with "ya know?" But if it's not important to the character or story, then don't worry about it. "Blueprint" ;-)
2 people like this
Write them in if it's a character thing... Every word has a purpose and explains the character.
I agree with all of the above. Mostly, let the actor make the choice and if the director thinks it needs to NOT be there then they will be in charge of that. If the "filler" words come out of the actor's mouth and it fits the character then so be it. Otherwise, if you think you need them keep them out. It helps the actors be more natural in their craft.
I almost always ad-lib the stutters. I do what I would normally do in life. Feels more natural.
Most actors will read and memorize exactly what is written as to not disrespect the writer or the casting director. If you are writing it for others and also directing it then just tell your actors they can ad-lib but make sure you give them specifics on what they can or can't do.