I try to think what the character is thinking. Then…
“I try to think what the character is thinking. Then, hopefully, I begin to feel it. I act and react not because I'm recalling a dog killed by a fire engine, but because I'm concentrating on what the character is going through.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Actors should empathize with their characters, feeling their emotions rather than recalling unrelated memories.
In simple terms: Feel the character’s emotions directly.
Empathy drives authentic performance.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- theatre workshops
- film acting
- character study
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance empathy with technique?
- What exercises help deepen character connection?
Relying solely on empathy may overlook technical skill.