Facial expressions are a key part to overall expression when acting. Even the slightest movement can convey a range of thoughts and feelings. The blushing of the cheeks is an immediate sign of embarrasent. A combination of widening the eyes, raising the eyebrows and the creases caused in the forehead of doing so is a clear sign of surprise or shock. Such movements as scratching the head or hair and clearing the throat might be recognized as a sign of nervousness. Anger might be identified by the grinding of the jaw or curling of the lips and flaring of the nostril or nose. Attraction might be shown by the lowering of the chin, leaning the head to one side using the neck and ‘batting’ of the eyelashes, although this one is preferred to be reserved for female actors to manipulate! One of the most simplest but most easy to recognise, by opening the mouth and showing the teeth nice and wide, kindness and happiness.
