Why Saoirse Ronan is the queen of period drama performances
What's the story
Saoirse Ronan has emerged as a Hollywood powerhouse, particularly noted for her period drama performances. The way she breathes life into historical figures with realism and complexity is what makes her a cut above the rest of her generation. Having been in the industry for more than a decade, she has regularly picked parts that defy the conventional rules of period drama acting, making her performances unforgettable.
#1
Mastering accents and dialects
One of Ronan's most standout skills, and a personal favorite of mine, is the way she nails accents and dialects. Be it as an Irish immigrant in Brooklyn or an English aristocrat in Atonement, Ronan's ability to adapt her speech according to the character's background adds so much depth to her performances. Not only does it make them authentic, but it also transports audiences into the time period.
#2
Deep character research
Ronan is known for doing thorough research for every role she takes up. For example, for Mary Queen of Scots she read historical books and biographies to comprehend Mary Stuart's life better. This dedication helps Ronan play characters with nuance, making their motivations and emotions resonate with the viewers on a deeper level.
#3
Collaborating with renowned directors
Working with acclaimed directors like Greta Gerwig and Joe Wright has been the best way to learn the ropes of period dramas for Ronan. The two have allowed her to delve into complex stories while being guided by some of Hollywood's finest storytellers. More often than not, the fusion of director and actor leads to the most compelling performances to have graced the silver screen.
#4
Choosing diverse roles
Ronan's choice of diverse roles within the genre showcases her versatility as an actress. From playing a young woman navigating societal expectations in Little Women to embodying historical figures like Mary Stuart, she consistently selects projects that push boundaries and offer fresh perspectives on familiar stories. This diversity not only highlights her range but also keeps audiences engaged with each new performance.