BARRY: Okay dad. I’m out.
DAD: Whoa-whoa. Hey. Okay- high school. It’s huge- a chance- big chance- like a blooming flower-- new friends. Life. Know what I’m saying?
BARRY: No.
DAD: Just- don’t- don’t be yourself.
BARRY: Okay. Wait- don’t be myself?
Don't Be Yourself — EXCHANGE STUDENTS
A well-meaning but socially awkward father gives his son unconventional advice on his first day of high school. He encourages Barry to reinvent himself and hide his true personality to achieve popularity, leading to a humorous exchange about social status and shampoo commercials.
Format: Duologue · Genre: Comedy · Source: EXCHANGE STUDENTS · Author: Ron J. Friedman · Characters: Barry, Dad
About This Scene
This contemporary duologue from the film EXCHANGE STUDENTS presents a humorous and slightly awkward interaction between a well-meaning father and his son on the son's first day of high school. The scene centers on the unconventional advice given by the father, encouraging his son to reinvent himself rather than be himself, highlighting themes of social status and the desire for acceptance. It's a comedic exploration of parental guidance gone awry, offering a relatable glimpse into the complexities of navigating adolescence with well-intentioned but misguided support.
Character Analysis
The father, Barry's Dad, is a male in his 40s-50s, characterized by his working-class appearance and slightly unkempt demeanor. He is well-meaning, if a bit socially awkward, and projects an Everyman quality. His motivation stems from a desire for his son to succeed socially in high school, even if his advice is laughably off-kilter and delivered with a struggle to articulate his thoughts. Barry, the son, is a teenager who is likely resigned to his father's eccentricities but still processes the bizarre advice being offered. He represents the recipient of this awkward parenting, probably with a mix of embarrassment and understanding.
Why This Works for Auditions
"Don't Be Yourself" is an excellent choice for auditions due to its clear comedic tone and well-defined character archetypes. The humor arises naturally from the father's misguided advice and the son's grounded reactions, providing ample opportunities for comedic timing and character choices. Its contained narrative and distinct emotional arc, moving from initial reluctance to a funny, if flawed, resolution, allow actors to showcase a range of subtle expressions and vocal choices within a short timeframe. The identifiable scenario of parental advice also makes the scene universally relatable.
Best Suited For
This scene is ideally suited for male actors in the 40s-50s playing the role of the Dad, and actors comfortable portraying a teenager for the role of Barry. It's particularly effective for those looking to showcase a comedic sensibility, especially in a slightly awkward, well-meaning, or paternal role. Actors who excel at dry humor, relatable character work, and understated comedic timing will find this scene a strong vehicle for their talents. It works well for self-tapes, general practice, and agent showcases where a quick, impactful comedic piece is desired.
Performance Tips
For the Dad, focus on conveying genuine paternal affection and concern, even as the advice becomes increasingly absurd. His awkwardness should come from a lack of social grace, not a lack of caring; embrace his struggle to find the right words. For Barry, play into the subtly bewildered and slightly embarrassed reactions, letting the humor land through his grounded, realistic responses to his father's outlandish suggestions. Consider the physical dynamics of the scene, such as the father's slightly rumpled appearance and the son's readiness to leave, to enhance the comedic contrast and inform your character's posture and movement.