verb
BAD : In his last film he performed a middle-aged school teacher.
GOOD : In his last film he played a middle-aged school teacher.
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play a particular part or role in a film, play etc (NOT perform ): 'What's the name of that good-looking American actor who played Butch Cassidy?'
Compare: 'She has never performed in front of a live audience before.' 'Tonight's concert will be performed by the Boston Symphony Orchestra.'