Director's Use of a Comic Actor in a Dramatic Role on the Example of Jim Carey's Work

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to study the director's technique of destroying the stereotypical perception of a comic actor in a dramatic role and to prove that this is a way to create a counterpoint in the acting ensemble. Research methodology. The following scientific research methods were used: analysis (to process films, theoretical works, articles by film critics and journalists), comparison (to identify the features of stylistic decisions in films), induction (to derive general principles from specific examples in the work of Jim Carey), generalisation (to write conclusions). Scientific novelty. For the first time, the possibilities of using a comedic actor in film dramas are analysed, the semantic and stylistic effect arising from such a directorial decision is investigated. The emotional impact on the viewer's perception is determined, the principles of casting for supporting roles to create a counterpoint in the acting ensemble are derived. Conclusions. A comic actor in a dramatic role has a significant impact on the style of the film. Such a directorial decision can lead to a duality of perception of the character; the author, imposing tragic elements of the newly created image on the previous experience of contemplating the performer's comic roles, creates a problem of "trust" in the actor for the audience. The introduction of the factor of unrealism allows for a natural combination of stylised and realistic acting. This combination creates a counterpoint in the acting ensemble and charges the conflict with the very coexistence of the actors. The combination of the comic and the acutely dramatic works to increase tension and create additional conflicts. This can be used as the following directorial tools: creating emotional amplification and empathy; softening the perception of a complex topic; creating a sense of background for a character; recognising another layer of meaning in a familiar style of acting. The author concludes that further research into the diverse range of effects of using comedic actors in dramatic films is promising.