Actors Quote by Mike Figgis
“In discussing the process with the actors, I made it clear to them that they could improvise but that the sum total of their improvisation needed to impart certain plot points, and schematic material.”
About This Quote
Source Film: Internal Affairs (1990) – director interview
Directors can allow actors freedom while ensuring key story beats are hit, balancing improvisation with narrative control.
In simple terms: Actors improvise within set plot points.
Key Takeaway
Guide improvisation with clear objectives.
Themes
creativity
control
collaboration
Mood
focused
flexible
Type
instructional
practical
When to use this quote
- theatre rehearsals
- film shoots
- workshop sessions
- live performances
Key Concepts
improvisation
story structure
directorial guidance
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you decide which moments need strict scripting?
- What benefits arise from actor-driven discoveries?
A Different Perspective
Improvisation may clash with tight schedules or scripted constraints.
