Seconds before hitting the sticks.
Mindful of direction and armed with sense memory, the actor readies himself for the start of his scene.
A tool for matching sound and movement, the film slate or clapperboard provides visual and auditory documentation. For the actor it is the starter pistol or opening bell; a signal to release the character and give it bearing.
The character emergence is a palpable moment.
Nuances are adopted. Expressions are honed. The process repeats.
