Exam Quote by John Hurt
“I mark a script like an exam, and I try not to do anything under 50 per cent. Similarly with the part. And also film is a peculiar thing, parts don't necessarily read in script form anything like as well as they can do when it comes to materialising.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Discussing Acting Technique, 1990s
He sets a high personal standard, refusing to accept work below 50% quality, and notes that film parts differ from scripts, often requiring a different approach to materialize.
In simple terms: He demands at least half effort and treats film parts uniquely.
Key Takeaway
Aim for at least 50% quality and adapt to medium.
Themes
standards
film
acting
process
quality
Mood
determined
analytical
Type
advice
process.
When to use this quote
- audition preparation
- scene study
- film production
- directorial collaboration
Key Concepts
performance thresholds
medium adaptation
creative interpretation
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance high standards with creative risk?
- When does a 50% rule hinder growth?
A Different Perspective
May limit experimentation by imposing a strict cutoff.
![“I got used to [ Lars Von Trier] doing the narration for 'Dogville' and 'Manderley.' And I said to him I do these narrations for you but you never put me in a film! So he called my bluff and put me in 'Melancholia' and I was thrilled about that.” quote by John Hurt](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ccf/john-hurt-1669_bluffs_i-got-used-to-lars-von-trier-doing-the-n_55595.jpg)
