Meaning: This quote is from Ian McDiarmid, a Scottish actor renowned for his portrayal of Emperor Palpatine in the Star Wars franchise. In this quote, he describes a memorable scene that he was eagerly anticipating and the pressure he felt to deliver a strong performance. The quote reveals the dedication and attention to detail that McDiarmid brought to his role, as well as the close collaboration between him and the director, George Lucas.

The scene in question is likely from the Star Wars prequel trilogy, where McDiarmid's character, Emperor Palpatine, plays a pivotal role in manipulating events to orchestrate the rise of the Sith and the fall of the Galactic Republic. As a central figure in the saga, McDiarmid's portrayal of Palpatine is crucial to the overarching narrative, and his performance in key scenes contributes significantly to the impact of the story.

In the quote, McDiarmid expresses his anticipation and enthusiasm for the particular scene, indicating that it held personal significance for him. This reflects his investment in the character and the storytelling process, as well as his commitment to delivering a compelling performance that would resonate with audiences.

The reference to George getting "closer and closer and closer with that camera" highlights the collaborative process between the actor and the director. It suggests that Lucas was actively involved in capturing the nuances of McDiarmid's performance, emphasizing the director's attention to detail and his desire to convey the emotional depth of the scene through close-up shots.

McDiarmid's acknowledgment of the camera being "practically up my nose for the final shot" underscores the intensity of the filming process and the heightened level of scrutiny placed on his performance. This level of scrutiny can be both daunting and motivating for an actor, as it underscores the importance of delivering a powerful and authentic portrayal of the character.

The actor's recognition of the significance of the moment and his determination to "do my best to get it right" reflects his sense of responsibility to the character and the narrative. It also demonstrates his professionalism and dedication to his craft, as he strives to meet the high standards set for the scene and his performance.

Overall, Ian McDiarmid's quote provides insight into the collaborative and meticulous approach taken in the filming of a crucial scene in the Star Wars saga. It also offers a glimpse into the actor's mindset as he prepares to bring his character to life in a moment that he views as particularly meaningful and impactful. This quote serves as a testament to the artistry and dedication involved in creating memorable performances within the iconic Star Wars universe.