Would Best Actor Winners from 50 Years Ago Still Securing Their Crowns Today?
When considering the acting techniques and styles of past best actors, such as those who won the Academy Award for Best Actor in the early to mid-20th century, one can't help but wonder: if they were to use their theater-rooted acting styles today, would they still secure their crowns? The answer, in many cases, is no. Let's explore why and highlight the exceptions.
Early 20th Century Acting Styles
Movies started with actors and playwrights heavily influenced by the overblown theater styles of the early 20th century. Theater actors of this era were accustomed to playing to the back row without the benefit of a microphone, leading to exaggerated and grand performances. This style was common during the studio system's heyday, from the 1930s to the 1950s. Actors were even sent to special schools within the studios to learn the Mid-Atlantic accent, a style favored by Broadway actors of the same period.
Actors like Judy Garland were known to take gesture classes, leading some to speculate that non-singers may have undergone similar training. Apprenticing and learning proper deportment were the norm. However, it wasn’t until actors like James Dean and Marilyn Monroe, who studied with teachers like Lee Strasberg in the late 1950s and early 1960s, that the push towards a more naturalistic acting style began to take shape.
Why They Would Not Win Today
The question presumes that actors from the past would simply be transplanted into the present and behave as they did in their time. However, the transition from a more exaggerated, theatrical style to the more naturalistic, contemporary style required adaptation. Spencers Tracy, for example, was quite intelligent, and if he could be brought into the present, he would likely make the necessary adjustments to contemporary performance rather than remaining a robot version of his past self.
For the most part, best actors who won in the past would not win today. The few exceptions include Marlon Brando and Sir Lawrence Olivier. These actors had a certain level of versatility that allowed their performances to transcend the time-specific acting techniques.
Other Acting Techniques and Exceptions
Actresses like Bette Davis, while skillful, often had a mannered style that can now be seen as somewhat dated. Other actors such as Edward G. Robinson and Peter Lorre may still fit in well with contemporary expectations, but many others would struggle.
Ultimately, the question highlights an important aspect of the evolution of acting styles. Both older, more theatrical styles and the contemporary, naturalistic styles are valid but represent different eras and different expectations in the industry. Directing trends are another factor. While directors generally avoid overtly exaggerated performances, they are also cautious, often preferring performance styles that align well with contemporary expectations and naturalism.
In conclusion, while the acting styles of the past have their charm and unique qualities, they are less likely to secure the same level of acclaim today due to the shift towards more naturalistic acting. Actors like Marlon Brando and Lawrence Olivier stand out as exceptions due to their adaptability and versatility. The art of acting continues to evolve, and understanding this evolution is crucial for modern and future actors.