I want to do what I can lend my talents to, but I want it to be as a human being and not as a two-dimensional character.
Gene WilderRead
What good is a character who's always winking at the audience to let them in on the secret?
Interpretation
What this quote means
True character should not be superficial or insincere; it must be genuine and authentic.
Gene Wilder's quote highlights the idea that a character who constantly tries to draw attention to their own awareness of the audience undermines the authenticity of their portrayal. When a character is overly self-aware or intentionally winks at the audience, it can detract from the depth and realism of the character, suggesting that true engagement comes from authentic representation rather than seeking validation or approval.
Themes
CharacterAuthenticityPerformanceGenuinenessPhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a discussion about acting methods in theatre classes.
More from Gene Wilder
All quotes βSo my idea of neurotic is spending too much time trying to correct a wrong. When I feel that I'm doing that, then I snap out of it.
Gene WilderRead
A lot of comic actors derive their main force from childish behavior. Most great comics are doing such silly things; you'd say, 'That's what a child would do.
Gene WilderRead
I never used to believe in fate. I used to think you make your own life and then you call it fate. That's why I call it irony.
Gene WilderRead
If my mother hadn't laughed at the funny things I did, I probably wouldn't be a comic actor. After she had her first heart attack, the doctor said, 'Try to make her laugh.' And that was the first time I tried to make anyone laugh.
Gene WilderRead
The thing I love about making movies is the peace of mind that I know I don't have to be perfect the first time. I can be perfect the second time or the third time.
Gene WilderRead
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