Emotion memory
Also called affective memory, emotional memory, emotional recall
Emotion memory is an acting technique in which the actor recalls a real experience that carried a similar feeling and uses it to inform a moment in the role.
It comes from Stanislavski's early work and is also called affective memory or emotional recall. Stanislavski later found it too draining, but it stayed central to Lee Strasberg's Method.
Last updated 4 Oct 2026
Related terms
Take it further
Train with working professionals
Knowing the words is a start. Book into live classes, get self-tape feedback from working actors and follow a plan built for you.