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Acting Quote by Michael Shurtleff

“An actor must make his needs (goals, wants, objectives) so strong that he is willing to interfere with the other actor in order to get what he needs. Interfering means getting in their way so that what you want is stronger than what they want.” quote by Michael Shurtleff
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“An actor must make his needs (goals, wants, objectives) so strong that he is willing to interfere with the other actor in order to get what he needs. Interfering means getting in their way so that what you want is stronger than what they want.”

Michael Shurtleff

About This Quote

Source Book: Acting for the Camera by Michael Shurtleff, 1974

An actor must create such compelling objectives that he will clash with others to achieve them, highlighting conflict as a driver of performance.

In simple terms: Strong goals cause conflict.

Key Takeaway

Make your objectives clear and powerful.

Themes

conflict motivation character performance

Mood

intense focused

Type

dramatic instructional

When to use this quote

  • audition preparation
  • scene work
  • directing
  • playwriting

Key Concepts

objective interference dramatic tension

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you ensure your character’s needs are unmistakable?
  • What risks arise when conflict overshadows story?
A Different Perspective

If goals are too subtle, conflict may not arise.

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