Method acting has been a revered form of studying acting, challenging actors to try to realistically feel and engage in the direct experiences of what their characters are assigned to convey. This method was quite revolutionary in its approach to the craft of acting, arguably transforming not only acting theory, theatre, and film but also American popular culture.

Isaac Butler’s The Method: How the Twentieth Century Learned to Act chronicles the history and impact of method acting. In it, Butler also examines significant examples of theatre associated with method acting, including plays like A Streetcar Named Desire. Butler also delves into the significance of other key figures associated with method acting such as Stella Adler, Lee Strasberg. Moreover, this includes discussions of performers who studied method acting, including Marlon Brando, Marilyn Monroe, Elia Kazan, and more.

This book will no doubt be enjoyed by classic film fans interested in the acting theories implemented in the creation of several classic films.

The Method: How the Twentieth Century Learned to Act is available via Bloomsbury Publishing.