Tim Allen’s amazing performance as the narrator in Disney’s wonderful and compelling documentary Chimpanzee got me thinking about narration technique even more. The amazing balance he gave to the role of narrator deserves to be examined even further. It is the example to set for more narrators to come, broadening the scope of what was once traditionally delivered a bit drier. When I think of other standout performances that bring a person to life in their own right yet can still maintain a note of reserve, of subtlety, I call to mind Glenn Close as the voice of the 2009 documentary Home. Home is yet another narration performance that hits the nail on the head. Here’s why.
What Close, Allen, and many others are achieving here in their delivery is the perfect balance of all the elements. These mysterious “elements” begin with the “star” quality that translates to someone being naturally compelling – whatever it is they say, there is an underscore of importance to it, of drama, of command. We want to listen to whatever it is THEY have to say. They feel important, or perhaps they are so committed to the importance of the material that they “own” it. The next element involves the exact opposite – stepping back a degree, letting the screen take over and receive some of the attention, the credit. In this sense, they don’t necessarily become a robot dryly translating information, but rather a spectator, just like us. They let the picture matter, and they let us identify with them as mere mortals. This naturally adds that third element – accessibility. And then, accessibility turns over to authenticity. We believe. We believe!
If you want someone to “believe” in you as a narrator, take your cues from these guys. Getting voice over jobs can be as fun for the narrator as it is for those watching and listening. Know when to spin your tale with more color, and when to sit back, relax, and enjoy the show, just like your audience.
Hi! I’m Lesley Bailey. I’m an award-winning Casting Director, Voiceover Coach, Demo Producer, and Consultant with over 30 years “in the trenches”. I love helping voice actors bring scripts to life with authenticity and confidence.