As an aspiring actor, studying the performances of today’s most talented actors can offer valuable lessons to elevate your craft. From emotional depth to transformative techniques, these stars exemplify the skills every actor should strive to develop. At Southside Performance Studio, our acting classes in Glasgow are designed to help you take inspiration from these performances and apply them in your own work.

Here’s our list of the best actors to learn from in 2024 and what you can take away from their performances:

1. Zendaya – Emotional Depth and Range

Zendaya continues to impress with her nuanced performances, whether in Euphoria or blockbuster hits like Dune: Part Two. Her ability to transition seamlessly between vulnerability and strength makes her a masterclass in emotional authenticity.

What to Learn:

• How to convey complex emotions with subtlety.

• The art of stillness and presence in a scene.

2. Cillian Murphy – Transformative Acting

Fresh off his stunning portrayal in Oppenheimer, Cillian Murphy showcases the power of research and preparation. His dedication to understanding his characters' psyche is an inspiration to actors seeking to create layered performances.

What to Learn:

• Building intensity and depth in your roles.

• Using physicality and voice to transform into a character.

3. Florence Pugh – Versatility Across Genres

Whether in intense dramas like A Good Person or big-budget productions like Oppenheimer, Florence Pugh demonstrates a remarkable ability to adapt to different genres while maintaining authenticity.

What to Learn:

• Balancing vulnerability with strength in performances.

• Using improvisation to add depth to your scenes.

4. Austin Butler – Commitment to a Role

Austin Butler’s portrayal of Elvis Presley in Elvis earned critical acclaim for its sheer dedication and immersion into the character’s life. His commitment to voice, movement, and mannerisms is a perfect example for actors aiming to create believable transformations.

What to Learn:

• How to perfect accents and mimic physical quirks.

• The importance of extensive preparation and research.

5. Viola Davis – Mastery of Emotional Expression

Known for her powerhouse performances in films like Fences and The Woman King, Viola Davis is the epitome of emotional depth and intensity.

What to Learn:

• How to deliver unforgettable monologues.

• Mastering emotional transitions in dramatic scenes.

Why Studying These Actors Matters

Studying these performances can help you:

• Build a better understanding of character development.

• Improve your ability to convey emotions authentically.

• Expand your versatility across genres and roles.

Bring These Lessons to Life in Acting Classes Glasgow

At Southside Performance Studio, our acting classes in Glasgow offer personalized training to help you refine the skills you see in today’s top actors. Whether it’s emotional depth, physical transformation, or mastering accents, our classes are tailored to unlock your potential as an actor.

Ready to take the next step? Learn how to translate these lessons into powerful performances by joining our acting classes. Explore more at Southside Performance Studio.