Commonly used in advertising and documentary scenarios, this is separate from the narrative or in-person action. It is usually pre-recorded.
It can be used in several ways:
As a commercial device: Commonly used ever since the early days of radio, this technique is used in most television commercial advertising. While in days gone by, before the advent of advanced sound recording, actors provided live spoken advertising on radio and acted through their voices for radio entertainment. Radio serials were popular, and an entire cast of actors would be present for live shows daily or weekly. Today, commercials are pre-recorded, and sounds are added later. Many product suppliers choose a distinctive voice to advertise their brand.
Translation: An alternative to subtitles or dubbing, some countries use a commercial voice-over for language localization. All over the world, news and documentary pieces will use this technique as a translation method where necessary.
Documentaries: Watch any news story, documentary, or similar, and the disembodied sound is, along with images, the star of the show. One instantly recognizable sound the world over is Sir David Attenborough, made famous after decades of voicing his wildlife and nature documentaries.
Character device: Cartoons are possibly the most common characters we know where our words acting is used first and foremost. Some very versatile American voice-over actors can provide a range of varied voices to any character.
Creative Device: In fictional works, a character can reflect on their situation or past, or a person observing the story may provide a narrative from outside the action. That gives the effect of an omniscient character who guides the viewer through the story. Many films famously use words over in this way, including Goodfellas, The Shawshank Redemption, The Usual Suspects, Citizen Kane, Blade Runner, and Moulin Rouge!.
How does one become a voice actor? Acting talent must be developed and honed. Voice acting is more difficult than other acting genres, as the voice is the only tool the actor has to convey emotion, intention, etc. Voice must be developed and strengthened to expand range and control. Imitation is a valuable talent to have and develop as well. The voice actor must also be outstanding at reading aloud. If one believes they have what it takes to succeed as a voice actor, they should find a representing agent and be sure they reside in an area where work will be available.
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provoiceusa Joined: July 10th, 2019 Articles Posted: 63
