Meaning: This quote by actor Danny DeVito provides insight into the collaborative process between actors and directors in the film industry. DeVito is referring to his experience working with director Tim Burton, known for his distinctive visual style and imaginative storytelling. The quote sheds light on the way Burton involves actors in the creative process by sharing the script and visual representations of the characters they will portray.

In the quote, DeVito describes how Burton first calls him and sends the script, indicating a level of personal engagement and direct communication between the director and the actor. This initial step in the process allows DeVito to familiarize himself with the story, the character he will be playing, and the overall vision that Burton has for the project.

The second part of the quote is particularly illuminating as DeVito mentions that Burton sends him a drawing or illustration of his image of DeVito as the character. This personalized visual representation serves as a powerful tool for conveying Burton's artistic vision and helps DeVito understand how the director envisions the character within the context of the story. This approach not only demonstrates Burton's attention to detail and commitment to visual storytelling but also creates a sense of collaboration and mutual understanding between the director and the actor.

By sharing these visual representations with the actors, directors like Burton provide them with a tangible reference point that goes beyond mere descriptions in the script. This visual aid can inspire and guide the actors in developing their characters, understanding their motivations, and embodying the director's creative vision. It also allows for a more immersive and interactive creative process, where the actors can contribute their own insights and interpretations based on the visual cues provided by the director.

Furthermore, the quote underscores the significance of visual storytelling in Burton's work and how he uses illustrations to communicate his vision to the cast and crew. Burton's distinct visual style is a hallmark of his filmmaking, characterized by dark, whimsical, and often surreal aesthetics. By sharing his visual concepts with the actors, Burton ensures that they are aligned with his artistic vision and can bring the characters to life in a way that resonates with the overall tone and atmosphere of the film.

In conclusion, Danny DeVito's quote offers a glimpse into the collaborative and visual nature of the creative process in filmmaking, particularly in the context of working with a director like Tim Burton. It highlights the importance of communication, personal engagement, and visual storytelling in shaping the performances of actors and the overall artistic vision of a film. The quote serves as a testament to the dynamic and multifaceted nature of collaboration between directors and actors, where the exchange of ideas, scripts, and visual representations enriches the creative process and contributes to the realization of a compelling cinematic experience.