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.