The 7-Step Film Directing Formula

Fri, Jan 18th, 2013

STEP 1: THE STUDY OF HUMAN BEHAVIOR

What do I mean by the study of human behavior?

“Human nature is the concept that there is a set of inherent

distinguishing characteristics, including ways of thinking,

feeling and acting, that humans tend to have.”

http://www.ask.com/wiki/Human_nature

In other words, the study of human behavior is about:

a. What makes us tick?

b. Why do we do things?

Once you know the answers to these questions, you will have a

better idea of how the characters in your script should

interact with each other, as well as having the proper

“psychological tools” to direct actors on the set.

The good thing about human behavior is that it is observable,

and as storytellers, we must first observe the way people

react to different situations and circumstances in order to

understand How and Why their behavior changes.

As a film director, you must be a “witness” to human behavior.

You need to get into the habit of observing people going about

their daily lives, so you can find out what motivates them to

take action.

Once you know what motivates a person to achieve their daily

needs, you will have the knowledge to better understand the

story you are telling, and you will feel more confident

helping your actors achieve believable performances."

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