Meaning: In this quote, Jane Horrocks, a talented actress known for her work in film, television, and theater, shares her experience working with renowned British director and screenwriter Mike Leigh. The quote encapsulates Leigh's unique approach to character development, which emphasizes the importance of drawing inspiration from real-life individuals known to the actor. By encouraging his actors to base their characters on people they know, Leigh aims to infuse authenticity and depth into the performances, grounding the characters in genuine human experiences and traits.

Mike Leigh is celebrated for his distinctive method of collaborative filmmaking, which often involves extensive improvisation and character development workshops with the actors. His approach stands in contrast to traditional script-based filmmaking, as he places a strong emphasis on character-driven narratives and deeply developed personas. This approach allows the actors to fully inhabit their characters, infusing them with a sense of realism and complexity that resonates with audiences.

When Horrocks mentions that Leigh encourages actors to choose a person they know as a basis for their character, it sheds light on the deeply personal and introspective nature of Leigh's process. By asking actors to draw from their own experiences and relationships, Leigh creates a space for them to explore the nuances of human behavior and emotion, enriching their performances with a sense of authenticity and depth.

The process of selecting a person from a list of individuals known to the actor further underscores Leigh's commitment to individualized and nuanced character development. This meticulous approach allows the actor to delve into the intricacies of their chosen person's personality, mannerisms, and idiosyncrasies, granting them a rich foundation from which to build their character. By engaging in this in-depth exploration with Leigh, actors are able to develop a profound understanding of their character's motivations and complexities, resulting in performances that feel inherently genuine and compelling.

It is important to note that Leigh's approach not only impacts the actors' performances but also contributes to the overall authenticity and depth of his films. By fostering a collaborative environment that places a premium on genuine human experiences, Leigh creates narratives that resonate with audiences on a profound level. The characters in his films feel inherently real, as they are crafted from a place of personal connection and understanding, transcending the boundaries of traditional storytelling.

In conclusion, Jane Horrocks' quote provides valuable insight into Mike Leigh's approach to character development and collaborative filmmaking. By encouraging actors to draw inspiration from people they know, Leigh's method fosters performances and narratives that are deeply rooted in authenticity and humanity. This approach not only enriches the actors' portrayals but also contributes to the enduring impact of Leigh's films, as they resonate with audiences on a profound and relatable level.