Don't settle for average. Bring your best to the moment. Then, whether it fails or succeeds, at least you know you gave all you had. We need to live the best that's in us.
Angela BassettRead
Acting is my calling, not my career.
Interpretation
Acting is a deep passion for Angela Bassett, transcending a mere job.
In this quote, Angela Bassett emphasizes that acting is more than just a profession for her; it is a true vocation and a significant part of her identity. This distinction highlights her deep passion for the craft, suggesting that the fulfillment and purpose she derives from acting go beyond financial gain or status, reflecting a commitment to her art.
In practice
During a speech at a film festival, one might quote Angela Bassett to inspire young actors about pursuing their passion.
Don't settle for average. Bring your best to the moment. Then, whether it fails or succeeds, at least you know you gave all you had. We need to live the best that's in us.
The three things I said when I came out of school were I want to work consistently, I want to do good work and I want to be paid fairly, and that's happened. But I didn't become an actress for the money. I do it for other reasons.
Loving God is like my being black. I just am. [No one says] 'You know what? I'm gonna be blacker today!' It's my culture. It's not something I put on or take off or show more. You just communicate that in the way you live your life.
They seemed to forget that the increase of known truths stimulates the investigation, establishment and growth of the arts; not their dimination or destruction.
The thing a drama school can't give you is instinct. It can sharpen instinct but that can't be taught, and you have to have intuition. It's an essential ingredient.
I'm never certain of a performance - my own or the other actors' - or the script or anything... But to me it seems there's only one place in the world the camera can be, and the decision usually comes immediately.
I equate composing with orchestrating. I think my music in terms of an orchestra.
A world turned into a stereotype, a society converted into a regiment, a life translated into a routine, make it difficult for either art or artists to survive. Crush individuality in society and you crush art as well. Nourish the conditions of a free life and you nourish the arts, too.
So long as you write what you wish to write, that is all that matters; and whether it matters for ages or only for hours, nobody can say.
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