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David Gordon Green Makes Snow Angels
Exploring the unique collaboration between director and actor
When i began working with Kate Beckinsale on Snow Angels, we were trying to find elements rooted in reality that could give her character of Annie anchors of emotion—humor, frustration, aggression and sympathy. I knew that once cameras were rolling, we wanted a high degree of improvisation, particularly when it came to confrontational scenes with her estranged husband, Glenn (played by Sam Rockwell). So we needed to design as much background for her as time would allow.
Much of what we leaned on was Kate’s willingness to bring notes from her own motherhood and various personal relationships to the broad stroke understanding of her character. The sincerity of her performance would not have been achieved without this investment. In addition, we were fortunate to have Stewart O’Nan’s novel that the movie is based on, which was a tremendous resource and reference. From there we constructed lists that would elaborate the fictional details and environments of Annie’s life.
We wanted to design a fully realized, complex character with all of the contradictions and texture we believed her to have. Kate and I were excited to fill in the cracks of her character that the story left out. From there, the process was less about me giving specific directions and more about asking questions. Why would…? How come…? What if…?
I don’t believe in a traditional rehearsal process in which concrete intentions are made and dialogue is chosen. I would rather use it as a time for concerns and considerations, where the actors get comfortable with each other and get to know all sides of the characters we are developing—some confidentially. This leaves plenty of room for natural instincts and responses to be captured while the camera is rolling.
For me, the thrill is in the surprises. I want to avoid preconceived performances that appear as if the actor spent time rehearsing inflections in the mirror and memorizing lines, looking slick as they say the witty script written by the cracker-jack screenwriter. If actors know exactly what is going to be said in a scene there are almost always flat looks of anticipation on their faces… Not truly listening… Lots of “eyebrow acting.” It’s obvious they’re waiting for their next line.
Working with a performer like Kate is a pleasure because she has a deep understanding of her character without over-intellectualizing it. The process is fresh and fun no matter how dark or dramatic you go.
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COMMENTS | POST A COMMENT 
- Comment by zara clothing on 12/21/08 at 4:16 pm
Snow Angels- reminds me of a patriots game where the guy was flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct for making a snow angel.
- Comment by Draper Tools on 4/21/09 at 1:31 am
Keep your garden tools in good condition with these helpful tips.Cheap tools perform poorly and will need replacing sooner, so, purchase good-quality tools and keep them in top shape.Clean tools regularly. Brush or scrape off dirt and debris after each use, and store them out of the weather.
- Comment by Promotional Magnets on 9/14/09 at 4:39 pm
*Clips coupons, keeps on the fridge with magnets
You should make her some personalized magnets.
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- Comment by clothing manufacturers on 12/12/11 at 9:39 am
Keep your garden tools in good condition with these helpful tips.Cheap tools perform poorly and will need replacing sooner, so, purchase good-quality tools and keep them in top shape.Clean tools regularly. Brush or scrape off dirt and debris after each use, and store them out of the weather.Great post.
- Comment by work wear on 12/12/11 at 9:39 am
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This story was published in the Winter 2008 MovieMaker Magazine. The headline was:
Making Snow Angels
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