Moviegoers like to believe that those they have made stars are great actors. People used to say that Gary Cooper was a fine actor - probably because when they looked in his face they were ready to give him their power of attorney.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Stars are often accepted as great actors due to their commanding presence.
- In plain terms
- People call stars good actors because they look authoritative.
- What can you take from it?
- Presence can mask lack of acting skill in public perception.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Does look equal skill?
- Why do we trust stars?
Another view
Not all stars rely solely on presence rather than craft.
More from Pauline Kael
If there is any test that can be applied to movies, it's that the good ones never make you feel virtuous.
Permalink to quote #46 This is a nature-boy movie, a kid's daydream of being an Indian. When Dunbar has become a Sioux named Dances with Wolves, he writes in his journal that he know…
Permalink to quote #48 Is there something in druggy subjects that encourages directors to make imitation film noir? Film noir itself becomes an addiction.
Permalink to quote #45
Related quotes
Politicians, quite rightly, are not surrounded by mystique. Doctors, quite wrongly, too often are.
Roy HattersleyRoy Hattersley quote #1 You know it's flattering when there's a rumor that says I'm bisexual. It means I can play more kinds of roles. I'm open to whatever people want to call me. I'v…
Jake GyllenhaalJake Gyllenhaal quote #2 'I am in so many movies that are on TV at 2:00 a.m. that people think I am dead.'
Michael CaineMichael Caine quote #3