Uta Hagen is one of the most well respected actors and acting coaches in the world. Her techniques have helped some of the biggest names from Hollywood to Broadway and everywhere in between.
Overall
If you're a seasoned actor, or just a newbie fresh off the turnip truck, you will find that this book will help you master the craft of acting. Uta Hagen is not only a well respected actor, but one of the most sought after experts on acting. This book is well written, easy to follow and a perfect guide for actors of all levels.
Real Review
Personally, I first came across this book over twenty years ago. I still find it to be the best guide to the acting craft available.
She presents acting as not only a craft that should be mastered, but as an "art" that should be savored. It's both a practical step by step guide as well as a reference manual to be used over ones career.
Ms. Hagen's approach can help you refine your talent so that you become invaluable to a given production. She outlines a blueprint that is as useful to the newbie as it is to the professional actor. After all, she establishes the fact that actors are not always born, they can be trained. Although instinct and natural talent can make it easier to accomplish the goal of becoming a successful actor, anyone willing to devote themselves to the craft can be trained.