Meaning: The quote you provided is attributed to Daniel Berrigan, a well-known Jesuit priest, anti-war activist, poet, and author. Berrigan was a prominent figure in the anti-Vietnam War movement and was known for his outspoken advocacy for peace and social justice. The quote reflects Berrigan's involvement in the film industry, particularly his role as an advisor to actors in a big blockbuster film.

In this quote, Berrigan humorously describes his experience working in the film industry, highlighting his role as an advisor to the actors. He mentions that he was "trying to make Jesuits out of them," which can be interpreted as an attempt to impart the values and principles of the Jesuit order to the actors he was advising. This reflects Berrigan's deep connection to his faith and his desire to infuse his beliefs into his work, even in unconventional settings such as the film industry.

Berrigan's involvement in the film industry as an advisor to actors may come as a surprise to some, given his more well-known roles as a priest, activist, and writer. However, it is important to note that Berrigan was a multifaceted individual with a wide range of interests and talents. His work in the film industry, particularly in the capacity of advising actors, demonstrates his willingness to engage with different forms of art and media in order to further his message of peace and justice.

It is also worth noting that Berrigan's involvement in films, including documentaries and blockbusters, allowed him to reach a wider audience and potentially influence popular culture with his message. As an advisor to actors, he may have had the opportunity to shape the portrayal of characters or themes related to social justice and moral values in the films he was involved with, thereby leveraging the power of storytelling and visual media to convey his beliefs.

Berrigan's reference to "making Jesuits out of" the actors in the blockbuster film is a playful way of expressing his attempt to instill the ethos and values of the Jesuit order in the individuals he worked with. The Jesuits, also known as the Society of Jesus, are a religious order within the Catholic Church known for their commitment to education, social justice, and intellectual pursuits. Berrigan, as a Jesuit priest, likely sought to imbue the actors with the principles of compassion, service, and ethical discernment that are central to the Jesuit tradition.

In summary, Daniel Berrigan's quote about his experience in the film industry as an advisor to actors offers a glimpse into his diverse and unconventional roles beyond his more well-known work as a priest and activist. It reflects his creative approach to spreading his message of peace and justice, as well as his willingness to engage with popular culture in pursuit of his ideals. Berrigan's involvement in the film industry serves as a reminder of the various ways in which individuals can leverage different platforms to promote social change and ethical values.