Supporting Role
A character whose actions and interactions bolster the lead and enrich the narrative.
Function in Storytelling
Supporting roles provide context, conflict or comic relief. They can act as confidants, antagonists or catalysts, driving subplots that complement the main arc.
Billing and Recognition
Though secondary in screen time, supporting actors can achieve critical acclaim, as seen with Oscar categories for Best Supporting Actor and Actress. These roles often demand scene-stealing performances that resonate despite limited exposure.
Variations and Types
Supporting characters range from the faithful sidekick and mysterious stranger to the moral foil. Ensemble films rely heavily on strong supporting casts to weave multiple narratives together.
Memorable Performances
Examples include The Joker in The Dark Knight, Samwise Gamgee in The Lord of the Rings and Myrtle Wilson in The Great Gatsby. Each illustrates how supporting roles can leave indelible marks on audiences.
Related Terms
In-Betweening
The traditional animation process of drawing intermediate frames between key poses.
Storyboard Artist
An artist who visualizes a script by sketching sequential panels to plan cinematic storytelling.
Onion-Skinning
A 2D animation technique that overlays adjacent frames to guide smooth motion.
Blend Shape
A technique using target-based vertex deformation for nuanced facial expressions and morphs.
X-Sheet
An exposure sheet that outlines timing, camera moves and sound cues for each animation frame.
Layout Artist
A production role responsible for translating storyboards into preliminary scene compositions.
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