Originally posted by dadudemonLittle touches like that are fine, so is editing--which is what that sounds like. But basically directing your actors like they're just mouthpieces for your dialogue or props for your swordfights really stifles the emotion in a scene. Give them no room to inject their own take or interpretation, and instead just tell them to say this here while standing there or sitting on that couch. Try to look sad or serious. Action!
For those of you who might object, do you think Clint Eastwood's monologue in Dirty Harry about "make my day" would have been as awesome if it was shot from behind at 20 meters without zoom? Exactly. He might have had his hand in a stupid position which would make the shot seem less serious (on his belt, halfway in his pocket, clenching it, etc.).
There's a reason why everybody describes these films as emotionless and unfeeling.
EDIT: Oh sit, we're getting off topic! F*cking run!