Directorial Style
My favorite part of the process is working with actors, and it's my real directorial strength.
The truth is actors work better with good guidence. The way that is delivered will vary from actor to actor. On my last film I had one actor who just like direction in the form, "could you just walk over there a bit faster please" and another actor who needed to go into the motivation of the character, the emotional dynamics of the scene. Being a good director is about being able to understand the acting process and actors well enough to be work with both comfortably rather than imposing a directorial style..
What I look for when watching the line-up, are actors who don't understand what they are doing or saying. It's fairly easy to spot, because the performance just doesn't ring true. I will then take the actor to one side and talk to them about that part of the scene.
Personally, I think there is nothing to be gained from being hard on the actors. this is a creative process where support and encouragement is needed.
I always give notes to actors as individuals, away from the rest of the cast and crew. People can't listen to criticism (even constructive) if you do it in front of their peers. I also sandwich any negative points in with a few good points, such as " I really liked the way you entered the scene, you looked really relaxed, just the way I imagined it, but I'm not sure about those first few lines ..." etc
I also try to give as many days rehearsal time as possible, doing my initial blocking of the scene, in the rehearsal rooms, with the actors, giving them time to work with the character. I'd then adjust my shooting of the scene to work with what blocks best for the actors.
I thnk of all the aspects of producing drama, this element is often the most over looked. There is a real craft on getting the best from actors and I believe that a good grounding in theatrical directing is always a good thing.
I really believe that if the performances are poor, only the director can be blamed, good direction can solve almost all performance problems.