Behind the Scenes: How Do Actors and Actresses Crying ‘On Cue’ Really Work?

The art of convincing emotion on stage or screen requires a combination of training, technique, and sometimes clever tricks. Many actors and actresses train themselves to cry 'on cue,' a term often used in the film and theater industry to describe the ability to produce tears at a specific moment in a performance. This article delves into the methods and techniques used by professionals to cry convincingly, explore the different approaches, and shed light on the lesser-known tricks behind the scenes.

The Art of Emotional Recall

Emotional recall is one of the most common and natural methods used by actors to cry 'on cue.' This technique involves drawing upon personal experiences to evoke genuine feelings, which can then be expressed through tears. Professional actors often undergo rigorous training to hone this skill. They may revisit specific moments in their lives that caused them to cry and use these memories as a springboard to achieve the desired emotional state.

Physical Techniques and Artistic Methods

In addition to emotional recall, actors may employ a variety of physical techniques to stimulate tears. These methods include the use of eye drops or other substances to induce tears artificially. One popular technique is the glycerin method, where glycerine drops are applied to the underside of the eye to create the sensation of moisture, allowing the actor to more easily produce tears. Another approach involves the use of menthol sticks, which cause a slight irritation in the eyes, triggering a natural tear response.

Leaning on Practical Effects and Props

For scenes that require more visible tears, actors may use practical effects or props to aid in their performance. One such trick involves the use of a glycerin stick or tear stick, which is rubbed under the eyes to make it appear as though the actor is naturally shedding tears. This method is particularly useful in close-up shots where the camera can capture every detail of the actor's expression.

Method Acting and Its Role

Method acting is another technique that can help actors cry convincingly. This approach involves fully immersing oneself in the character's emotional state, often drawing upon personal experiences or imagination to create a profound connection. While method acting is one of the more comprehensive techniques, many actors combine it with other methods to achieve the desired performance.

Opting for Simplicity: Yawning and Clever Tricks

Not all actors rely on complex techniques like emotional recall or glycerin; some have simpler methods at their disposal. For instance, an yawning technique involves repeatedly yawning while keeping the eyes open. This method can create a natural tear response, which often takes only about twenty seconds to become noticeable. Another clever trick involves rubbing liquid under the eyes, which can be either water or glycerin, to simulate the appearance of genuine tears. For particularly close-up shots, a chemical compound can be used, which is essentially a form of irritant that triggers real tears in a few seconds.

Professionalism and Skill

A professional actor should possess the skills and techniques necessary to produce the required emotions in any given moment. The ability to cry on cue is a valuable skill, especially in emotionally demanding scenes. However, it's important to recognize that not all actors cry genuinely in every scene. Some rely on the aforementioned methods, whether it's emotional recall, glycerin drops, or simple tricks like yawning or rubbing under the eyes.

In the end, crying 'on cue' is a multifaceted skill that combines emotional recall, physical techniques, and artistic methods. Whether an actor is working with a director on a film set or performing on stage, the goal is always to deliver a convincing and emotionally engaging performance. The methods range from simple to sophisticated, ensuring that any scene requiring tears can be convincingly portrayed.