Meaning: Barbara Hershey's quote sheds light on the complex relationship between actors and publicity, as well as the ethical considerations that come into play when promoting a film. In her statement, Hershey alludes to the common phenomenon of actors promoting films they may not genuinely like or believe in. She takes a principled stance by asserting that she does not engage in promotional activities for a film unless she genuinely likes it.

Hershey's stance reflects the ethical dilemma faced by many actors in the film industry. On one hand, actors are often contractually obligated to participate in promotional activities for the films they star in. These activities can include press junkets, interviews, and public appearances, all of which are aimed at generating buzz and driving audiences to theaters. However, when an actor is not genuinely enthusiastic about a film, promoting it can feel disingenuous and inauthentic. This raises questions about the actor's integrity and the impact of insincere endorsements on the audience.

Hershey's refusal to participate in publicity for films she does not like demonstrates a commitment to artistic integrity. It is a bold move that prioritizes honesty and authenticity over the pressures of promotion and publicity. By taking this stance, Hershey sets herself apart from many of her peers in the industry and sends a message about the importance of sincerity in the promotion of artistic work.

This quote also highlights the power dynamics at play in the film industry. While actors are an essential part of a film's success, they often have limited control over the final product and the marketing strategies employed. Their involvement in publicity activities may be dictated by the decisions of producers, marketing teams, and studio executives. In this context, Hershey's assertion that she only engages in publicity for films she likes challenges the traditional power dynamics and asserts the importance of an actor's personal values and artistic judgment.

In addition to the ethical implications, Hershey's quote also raises questions about the impact of genuine enthusiasm on the success of a film. Audiences are often attuned to the authenticity of endorsements and promotional efforts. When an actor genuinely believes in a film and passionately promotes it, their endorsement can carry more weight and influence. Conversely, insincere or half-hearted endorsements may be perceived by audiences as disingenuous and could potentially backfire, leading to a lack of trust and interest in the film.

Hershey's quote also speaks to the broader issue of artistic freedom and creative expression in the film industry. By asserting her refusal to engage in publicity for films she does not like, Hershey advocates for the importance of personal artistic integrity and the freedom to align oneself only with projects that resonate with one's artistic sensibilities. This stance challenges the notion that actors are mere commodities in the promotional machinery of the film industry and asserts their agency in shaping their public image and the projects they choose to endorse.

In conclusion, Barbara Hershey's quote encapsulates the ethical and artistic considerations that underpin the relationship between actors and film publicity. Her refusal to engage in promotional activities for films she does not like reflects a commitment to honesty, authenticity, and artistic integrity. It also challenges traditional power dynamics in the industry and raises important questions about the impact of genuine enthusiasm on the success of a film. Hershey's stance serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of personal values and artistic judgment in the promotion of artistic work.