The first act is writing, the second act is filming, the third act is releasing. If you have to partake in the third act, it hurts the first act of the next one. It's like a prizefight. You get punched.
Albert BrooksRead
The whole world is tense. Everybody gets the international news. Theres been no American comedy at all that even remotely addresses the subject in any way. My goal isnt to solve the worlds problems. My character wasnt even able to do his assignment. But the premise of wanting to find out about somebody -- other than the stuff that the CIA will tell you -- theres no hope unless we do that.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights the importance of understanding people beyond what's portrayed in the media, suggesting that humor can foster deeper connections.
Albert Brooks discusses the tense state of the world and reflects on the lack of comedy that addresses serious global issues. He emphasizes that while his comedic character may not solve world problems, the desire to learn about others beyond superficial portrayals is essential for fostering hope and understanding in society.
Themes
ComedyUnderstandingHopeSocietyMedia
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about the role of comedy in addressing serious issues.
More from Albert Brooks
All quotes →Well, you know, with every character, if you're going to expose yourself, you've got to figure out every detail that you're going to play. So there's no character that you can just go put on his shirt and be fully prepared.
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I don't think the goal is, 'How big a star did you ever become?' I think the goal is, 'Were you able to express yourself?'
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I've been to many funerals of funny people, and they're some of the funniest days you'll ever have, because the emotions run high.
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I don't think the goal is, 'How big a star did you ever become?' I think the goal is, 'Were you able to express yourself?' And if you're able to say yes, in any field, you've won. If you paint, write, do mosaics, knit - if it's solving that part of your brain saying, 'I need to do this,' you've won.
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If people don't love what you're doing, that doesn't mean you're wrong.
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