Meaning: This quote by Elia Kazan, a renowned film and stage director, encapsulates an important aspect of the creative process. Kazan is suggesting that simply reciting lines or going through the motions is not enough when it comes to performance. Instead, he emphasizes the need for actors to bring something revealing or unusual to their roles in order to truly captivate and engage their audience.

Elia Kazan was known for his work in both film and theater, and his insights into the art of performance are highly respected. He is perhaps best known for directing classic films such as "A Streetcar Named Desire" and "On the Waterfront," as well as for his work on Broadway productions. Throughout his career, Kazan demonstrated a deep understanding of the nuances of acting and directing, and his quote reflects this understanding.

When Kazan talks about doing something "revealing," he is suggesting that actors should strive to bring depth and authenticity to their performances. This may involve delving into the emotional core of their characters, exposing vulnerabilities, or shedding light on hidden motivations. By doing so, actors can create a sense of intimacy and connection with their audience, drawing them into the world of the story and the characters.

The idea of doing something "unusual" speaks to the notion of originality and creativity in performance. Kazan is encouraging actors to push beyond the expected or conventional and to find ways to surprise and intrigue their audience. This could involve unconventional choices in interpretation, physicality, or delivery that challenge expectations and breathe new life into a character or a scene.

In essence, Kazan's quote is a reminder that great performances require more than just technical skill. They demand a willingness to explore the depths of a character and to take creative risks in order to unearth something fresh and compelling. This insight applies not only to actors but also to directors, writers, and anyone involved in the process of bringing a story to life on stage or screen.

Kazan's own work exemplifies the power of revealing and unusual performances. His collaborations with actors such as Marlon Brando and Vivien Leigh brought complex, multi-dimensional characters to the screen, leaving a lasting impact on audiences and influencing generations of performers and directors to come.

Ultimately, Kazan's quote serves as a valuable reminder of the transformative potential of performance. It challenges artists to go beyond the surface and to seek out the extraordinary within the ordinary, creating experiences that resonate deeply with audiences and endure long after the final curtain falls.