Meaning: The quote "I like them all - I don't always approve. I see myself as a sort of benevolent uncle to these characters, and I can see why they do what they do; sometimes they make some mistakes, but at heart I think they're decent." is a reflection by the playwright and screenwriter Patrick Marber about his approach to creating and understanding characters in his works.

In this quote, Marber expresses a deep empathy and understanding for the characters he creates, viewing them with a sense of fondness and compassion despite their flaws and missteps. He likens his role to that of a benevolent uncle, suggesting a protective and affectionate stance towards his characters, even when he may not always approve of their actions or decisions. This perspective offers insight into Marber's approach to character development and storytelling, emphasizing the complexity and humanity of his creations.

Patrick Marber is known for his provocative and psychologically nuanced works, often delving into the complexities of human relationships and behavior. His acclaimed plays, such as "Closer" and "Dealer's Choice," as well as his screenwriting for films like "Closer" and "Notes on a Scandal," have garnered widespread recognition for their incisive exploration of human nature and moral dilemmas. Marber's characters are often flawed, multifaceted individuals whose actions and motivations are subject to moral ambiguity and emotional depth.

The quote reveals Marber's belief in the inherent decency of his characters, despite their imperfections and fallibility. This perspective aligns with his storytelling style, which typically eschews clear-cut heroes and villains in favor of morally complex and relatable characters. By seeing his characters as fundamentally decent at heart, Marber emphasizes the humanity and empathy that underpin his portrayals, inviting audiences to engage with the characters on a deeper and more empathetic level.

Furthermore, Marber's comparison of himself to a benevolent uncle implies a sense of responsibility and care for his characters' well-being, akin to a guardian looking out for their best interests. This lens of benevolence suggests that Marber approaches his characters with a sense of understanding and compassion, seeking to illuminate their struggles and motivations with empathy and insight. This approach lends a richness and emotional depth to his characterizations, allowing audiences to connect with the characters on a personal and empathetic level.

Overall, Patrick Marber's quote offers a glimpse into his empathetic and nuanced approach to character creation and storytelling. By viewing his characters with a sense of benevolence and understanding, Marber invites audiences to engage with the moral complexities and emotional depth of his work, fostering a deeper connection to the human experiences and dilemmas depicted in his plays and screenplays. His belief in the inherent decency of his characters underscores the complexity and humanity of his storytelling, offering a compelling exploration of the human condition through the lens of flawed yet fundamentally decent individuals.