The Monotone Actress Phenomenon: Are Some Actors Too Perfectly Generic?
When it comes to evaluating acting, there are often varying opinions about what makes a performance great or lackluster. In this article, we will explore a unique phenomenon among certain actors and actresses who have an almost monotonous, generic voice and yet somehow manage to receive acclaim. We'll also dig into the world of two notable figures: Sean Young, who stands out with her omnipresent flat monotone speaking style, and Gary Cooper, a classic screen actor renowned for his neutral and consistent delivery.
Sean Young: The Monotone Monstrance
Sean Young's career, like many others, has seen its ups and downs. She is perhaps best known for her roles in films such as Blade Runner 1982 and Dune 1984, where her flat monotone acting actually worked well. However, in her other appearances, Young's career has faltered, with much of her work being indistinguishable and unremarkable.
The Monotone Road to Fame
Young's speaking style has earned her some detractors who believe it hampers her ability to convey emotion. Throughout her career, whether it be in a Christmas TV movie or other roles, her voice remains consistently flat, almost mechanical. An exception to this is her role in Blade Runner 1982 and Dune 1984, where the context allows for a more subdued and flat-speaking role to be effective.
The Gary Cooper Paradox: Consistent Delivery with Great Performances
A case in point that challenges the convention that good acting requires inflection and emotion is Gary Cooper. Despite his consistent, almost monotone speaking style, Cooper has been celebrated as a great actor and even received two Oscars for Best Actor. How does one achieve such acclaim for a voice that is seemingly devoid of emotion or vitality?
Neutral Delivery as Strength
Cooper's neutral delivery was a key factor in his success. His consistent speaking style allowed viewers to focus on the material he was delivering rather than his vocal performance. This technique can be seen as a strength, as it provides the audience with a clear and level playing field to interpret his performances. It's a common perception that deeply inflected acting signifies an actor's full engagement with the role, but Cooper's approach shows that consistency can also be effective.
Other Actors to Avoid
Some actors who have been criticized for their overly flat and repetitive delivery include Natalie Portman, who is often criticized for her wooden and unbelievable performances. Similarly, Mila Kunis is known for embodying a single type of character, often an exaggerated and overacted one. Nicholas Cage is reported to be constantly bored and detached from his roles, which affects the overall impact of his performances.
Contemporary Controversies
When it comes to contemporary actors, some might argue that Channing Tatum and Keanu Reeves also fit this mold. Tatum is often praised for his physicality rather than his acting skills, while Reeves has a consistent, almost flat speaking style that some find less engaging. Reeves' ability to be seen as a great human being and yet a mediocre actor is a testament to the complex and often contradictory nature of public perception.
Case Study: Ruby Keeler
Ruby Keeler is another interesting case. Known for her role in 42nd Street, Keeler was once celebrated for her tap dancing skills. However, her stiffness and lack of rhythm are often cited as reasons for her downfall in the industry. After Ginger Rogers and Eleanor Powell came along, Keeler's career was effectively over.
Awareness and Self-Evaluation
Keeler's candid admission to Guy Flatley in the New York Times about her self-deprecating but charming demeanor highlights the importance of an actor's self-awareness. Her ability to recognize her limitations and still maintain a positive public image is a testament to her character.
In conclusion, the perception of great acting varies widely. While some actors rely on emotional inflections and expressive styles, others find success with a more neutral and consistent delivery. Whether this approach is beneficial ultimately depends on the role and the material. It's an intriguing aspect of the industry that challenges traditional views of what makes a performance exceptional.