How to Play the Improv Game, "Movie Styles"

by Gerri Garrick

Overview

Improv, short for improvisation, is fast becoming a popular form of entertainment. Shows can be seen in theaters and comedy clubs. Improv games are played as part of classroom study, as well as at parties just for fun. The game "Movie Styles" is best played by more experienced actors, as they will be called upon to be familiar with and perform in multiple film genres. So, be prepared to play characters who excel at Kungfu one minute, and clumsy characters who excel at pratfalls the next.

Step 1

Explain the rules of the game to your audience. Ask for suggestions of different film styles such as "Japanese marital arts," "western," or something as simple as "romantic comedy." Choose and write down about 10 varied movie styles that you know your actors are familiar with.
Step 2

Call two of your most talented actors out to the center of your performance space. Ask the audience for a location suggestion to set your scene. Choose a basic location such as an Italian restaurant's kitchen or a disco--any location that is commonplace and makes character creation easy.
Step 3

Begin the scene in no particular style. Let the actors establish their relationship through the dialogue. Let them express an emotion of some sort created out of their location.
Step 4

Call out a movie style from your list randomly. The actors should continue the scene, changing the characters to suit said style. After receiving a few laughs, call out a new movie style. The actors must change their performances to suit each named movie style.
Step 5

End the game on a high note, after you have played about five different styles, and received a big laugh. The old expression, "Always leave them wanting more," is a great rule to live by in improv.

4
Watch as many movies as you can to learn the different genres. Call your movie watching "research."
Watch as many movies as you can to learn the different genres. Call your movie watching "research."
Don't be afraid to play everything completely broad and over the top. Big physicality is key in improv, and theater acting should be much bigger than film.
Don't be afraid to play everything completely broad and over the top. Big physicality is key in improv, and theater acting should be much bigger than film.

Overview