Playing In Character...Help with an Accent

[Black Omega]

With accents, remember that subtlety is the key. There are few things more grating than an overdone fake accent, and if you overdo it your character will become a caricature, like Groundskeeper Willy. The best advice I've heard was from an acting coach: Don't accent every word. Accent every fifth or sixth word. It will still sound accented, but won't be harsh on the ears.

I'll second the vote for Billy Connolly. Thick Glasgow accent and a funny guy.

Tree's advice is pretty much on track. Don't overdo it. There's a great quote from a guy who wrote for a comic called Suicide Squad. He was writing for a Australian character and using alot of slang. He said some Aussie friends had gotten on him for that and he'd replied "But i'm using real Ausralian slang!" and they'd relied "But we don't use them all in the same sentence!"

 

[Welrain]

Hi,

At last a topic in which I can say I'm an expert..hurrah...I'm Scottish you see...woohoo

Being of highland stock I recommend the accents in Highlander and Braveheart for the more highlandish feel..not the main characters though listen to the supporting cast.

For central scotland it has to be Bill Connely and Ewan Mcgregor..anything with Robbie Coltrane and Robert Carlye rocks too.

And I do know people who speak the Groundskeepr willy..except their even more difficult to understand.....hehe