Meaning: Norman Jewison's quote, "With most British actors, it's amazing. I think they start with the character on the outside and work in," sheds light on the unique approach many British actors take when delving into their roles. This approach differs from the more commonly known method of "inside-out" acting, where an actor begins by understanding the character's emotions and psychological makeup before focusing on external aspects such as accents, mannerisms, and physical appearance. Jewison's observation highlights the distinct style and depth that British actors bring to their performances, emphasizing the importance of embodying a character from the outside in.

In dissecting Jewison's quote, it's essential to understand the different acting techniques and approaches employed by performers. The "inside-out" method, often associated with method acting, involves delving deep into a character's emotions, motivations, and inner workings to authentically portray their psychological state. This approach prioritizes the internal aspects of the character's persona, believing that the external attributes will naturally follow once the internal world is fully understood and embodied.

On the other hand, the "outside-in" approach, as mentioned by Jewison, suggests that British actors focus on external characteristics first, such as physicality, accents, and mannerisms, allowing these elements to inform and shape the character's internal world. This method does not discount the importance of understanding a character's emotions and motivations but rather places emphasis on building the character from the outside, letting the external aspects guide the internal portrayal.

This unique approach taken by British actors aligns with the tradition of classical training and the influence of theater in the United Kingdom. British actors often undergo rigorous training in classical acting techniques, which emphasize the mastery of physicality, vocal control, and stage presence. This training equips them with the skills to embody a wide range of characters with authenticity and depth, often starting with the external manifestation of the character before delving into the emotional and psychological aspects.

One notable aspect of the "outside-in" approach is its potential to create a strong physical presence and a distinct embodiment of characters. By focusing on the external attributes first, British actors may develop a keen attention to detail in their physicality, enabling them to fully inhabit the mannerisms, gestures, and nuances of the characters they portray. This meticulous attention to external details can result in a compelling and nuanced portrayal that resonates with audiences.

It's important to note that while Jewison's quote highlights the approach of most British actors, it does not imply that all British actors adhere strictly to the "outside-in" method. Acting is a diverse and multifaceted art form, and actors often draw from a combination of techniques and approaches based on the demands of a particular role or production. Many British actors may integrate elements of the "inside-out" approach alongside their emphasis on external characterization, creating a layered and comprehensive portrayal of their characters.

In conclusion, Norman Jewison's observation provides valuable insight into the approach taken by many British actors, emphasizing their unique emphasis on starting with the character on the outside and working in. This approach reflects the rich tradition of classical training and the meticulous attention to physicality and external details that are hallmarks of British acting. By understanding and appreciating the distinct approaches to acting, we gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse techniques and methods that contribute to the rich tapestry of performances in the world of theater and film.