Character Quote by Lizzy Caplan
“I think it's necessary to identify with anything - with any character you play, there's got to be something in common, so you can link up to that person, even if it's like one tiny thing. But it's equally fun to play somebody completely different, and trying to find what that thing is to make it.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Office (US) Cast Interview, 2008
Acting requires finding a relatable thread with any role, even a tiny one, while also enjoying the challenge of portraying someone wholly different.
In simple terms: Find a small commonality with each character, then explore differences.
Seek both connection and contrast in performance.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- audition prep
- method acting
- role rehearsal
- character study
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you discover a relatable element in an unfamiliar role?
- What benefits arise from playing characters unlike yourself?
Finding a common thread may be difficult for abstract or highly alien characters.