Behind the Scenes: Actor’s Experience of Kiss Scenes in Filming

Have you ever wondered what actors/actresses feel while filming a kiss scene? Imagine being in front of a huge crew, with cameras pointed in your direction, and having to play out a passionate scene. It's no wonder many find the experience awkward.

A Professional Approach

Many actors and actresses treat kiss scenes just like any other part of their job. They go through detailed rehearsals, working out the mechanics of each kiss—how to tilt their heads, the intensity of the scene, and so on. But let’s be honest, no matter how professional they try to be, it still feels weird making out with a coworker, especially when everyone around you is fussed over the lighting and sound.

Post-Scene Reactions

Once the director yells 'cut,' some actors might feel a sense of relief, especially if the chemistry wasn't strong. Some may laugh it off, while others might immediately use a mint to stay fresh. Some actors might simply shrug it off and move on to the next scene, treating it as just another part of the job.

Character Portrayal Over Personal Feelings

Actors need to fully embody their characters, and the actions and intentions of the character must remain central. When a character kills another on screen, no one dies. Similarly, when two actors depict lovers and perform a kiss, no one is actually cheating or vowing love. Only the actions and intentions of the characters are depicted, not those of the actual actors.

I have encountered several actors who refused to play romantic characters in love scenes due to personal religious beliefs. Surprisingly, the same actors had no problem playing the role of one who cheats, lies, or even kills other characters. This behavior raises questions about why such individuals choose to be actors in the first place, as acting requires a deep respect for fictional characters and their emotional journeys.

As an actor with over 30 years of experience, I can attest that the initial awkwardness is real. However, as rehearsals progress, the focus on character portrayal gradually diminishes the awkwardness. It’s all about immersing oneself in the role and bringing the script to life in a believable manner.

Conclusion

While kiss scenes might seem daunting, the experienced actor finds ways to manage the discomfort by focusing on the character and the scene. The professional approach and dedication to character portrayal are essential in making the performance believable and effective.