Actors Quote by Elia Kazan
“When you know what an actor has, you can reach in and arouse it. If you don't know what he has, you don't know what the hell is going on.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: “On Acting” (TV interview, 1965)
Understanding an actor’s inner resources is essential; without that insight, their performance appears confusing.
In simple terms: Know an actor’s strengths to guide them.
Key Takeaway
Study and communicate an actor’s inner material.
Themes
acting
insight
communication
Mood
analytical
practical
Type
educational
professional
When to use this quote
- casting decisions
- rehearsal planning
- performance coaching
Key Concepts
character analysis
directorial technique
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you discover an actor’s inner resources?
- What methods reveal hidden motivations?
A Different Perspective
Actors may conceal inner material.
