Ask A Genius 1203: Celebrities Notice
Author(s): Rick Rosner and Scott Douglas Jacobsen
Publication (Outlet/Website): Ask A Genius
Publication Date (yyyy/mm/dd): 2024/11/13
Rick Rosner: You should be aiming for people like Cate Blanchett and Tilda Swinton. When celebrities have projects coming out, they’re open to interviews. You’re a seasoned interviewer with an impressive track record. If celebs become part of your regular beat, you could be known as the interviewer who asks them questions that highlight their intelligence. Many celebs are smart because it’s advantageous in their line of work. Take Meryl Streep, for instance.
She’s incredibly smart. She’s also nice, which can be a bit of a handicap in the entertainment industry, but her immense talent has overridden that. But let’s say you’re not Meryl Streep. She has that rare level of acting ability that few possess. However, if you’re smart, you can simulate good acting by learning and applying certain rules.
Jacobsen: What kind of rules?
Rosner: For TV and film acting, there are a couple of good ones that can make you appear more skilled, even if you’re not trained or naturally talented. First, act less. Don’t move your arms excessively or show too much emotion. Say your lines with just a hint of the emotion you think is needed. Overacting is a hallmark of an amateur.
Jacobsen: That’s interesting.
Rosner: The second rule is to look invested when someone else is speaking to you. Look at their face, but let your eyes move subtly around their whole face. Don’t let your gaze leave their face, but let your eyes travel across it. This trick shows that you’re engaged and that what they’re saying matters to you.
Jacobsen: That’s useful to know.
Rosner: Someone who picks up tricks like these, along with understanding the cutthroat nature of the Hollywood business, will fare better. Hollywood is full of people who will try to outmaneuver or harm you for their gain, so being smart is a huge asset. In the entertainment world, intelligence can complement talent or even substitute for it. You asking celebrities intelligent questions would set you apart as an interviewer. Celebrities often have time to learn about various subjects between projects or have assistants to research and brief them.
Jacobsen: Some, like Clooney or DiCaprio, definitely seem well-informed.
Rosner: They either educate themselves because they’re interested or have assistants preparing them. So, keep asking those smart questions. Celebrities notice.
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