Character Quote by Jennifer Jason Leigh
“I like as much time as I can get and I'll do whatever I think is helpful to prepare for a role. Sometimes it's practical research, meaning if I had to write shorthand, I'd learn how to write shorthand. Or if I have to know how to dance a certain way, I would learn that. And then there's just research of talking to people similar to the characters I'm playing. And there's stuff that I just feel is inspiring, whether it be music or a painting or a photograph. I've used a lot of Nan Goldin's photos in the past to inspire me. I use certain paintings and pieces of music.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Acting Insights, 2022
The quote emphasizes proactive, role‑specific preparation through practical skill acquisition, research, and artistic inspiration to deepen performance authenticity.
In simple terms: Prepare by learning needed skills and seeking inspiration.
Key Takeaway
Actively gather tools and inspiration for a role.
Themes
preparation
skill acquisition
inspiration
research
creativity
Mood
focused
reflective
creative
Type
motivational
practical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- audition prep
- character development
- creative workshops
- networking with peers
- personal artistic exploration
Key Concepts
method acting
interdisciplinary learning
artistic influence
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance technical preparation with emotional truth?
- What sources most reliably spark authentic performance?
A Different Perspective
May neglect emotional immersion in favor of technical skill.
![“I'm not necessarily less gratified by films where you're given less room to maneuve. Because I love a great script, and I love to respect it, and I love to try to give a director what he needs and wants, especially having directed now. [Laughs.] I'm much more open to try to give him what he wants…” quote by Jennifer Jason Leigh](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/084/jennifer-jason-leigh-14248_admire_i-m-not-necessarily-less-gratified-by-fi_845507.jpg)
