Directing non-actors is difficult. Directing actors in a foreign language is even more difficult. Directing non-actors in a language that you yourself don't understand is the craziest thing you can possibly think of.
Sentiment: NEGATIVE
To direct actors is difficult. To direct actors in another language is more difficult, but directing non-actors in another language is one of the craziest things that I have done and one of the most rewarding experiences I have had.
Every actor you work with has a different method, same with the director. You have to figure out what your shared language is and how to best support each other, and also take care of yourself.
Directing remains very psychological, and it takes a lot of time and reflection. When you're an actor, it takes less time, and you can express yourself physically.
Directing talent is very nebulous. You know, it's not in front of you like an actor's performance.
Acting in another language is great, and I've done that. But you can't do it as well as you can do it in your own language.
As an actor, I had noticed very vividly that very few directors know how to direct actors because they haven't done it.
Sometimes, with directors, you have to take what they say and translate it in your head, into something that makes sense to you, because you're speaking two different languages.
The thing that's very close in the process is writing and acting, not directing. Directing's very different.
As far as working with actors, I feel very comfortable working in that aspect of directing.
Overseas directors who want to work in Hollywood, the language barrier is not a problem. With the right talent, any director can be successful.