Meaning: This quote by Elia Kazan, the renowned director and writer, delves into the essence of understanding an actor's abilities and potential in order to bring out their best performance. Elia Kazan is best known for his work in shaping the method acting technique and for his collaborations with legendary actors such as Marlon Brando and James Dean. This quote reflects his deep understanding of the actor-director relationship and the importance of tapping into an actor's capabilities to create impactful and authentic performances.

Kazan's statement, "When you know what an actor has, you can reach in and arouse it," highlights the significance of a director's insight into an actor's strengths, weaknesses, and emotional range. It emphasizes the director's role in not only guiding the actors but also understanding their individual talents and how to bring them to the surface. This understanding allows the director to tailor their approach to each actor, helping them tap into their full potential.

The quote further states, "If you don't know what he has, you don't know what the hell is going on." This emphasizes the potential confusion and lack of direction that can arise when a director is unable to comprehend an actor's abilities. Without this understanding, the director may struggle to guide the actor effectively, leading to a lack of clarity and coherence in the performance. Kazan's words highlight the importance of a strong director-actor relationship built on mutual understanding and trust.

Elia Kazan's approach to directing was deeply rooted in the understanding of the human psyche and emotions, which is evident in his work with method actors such as Marlon Brando. He believed in delving into the depths of the characters and their motivations, and this quote reflects his belief in the necessity of understanding the actors themselves to bring out the best in their performances.

In practical terms, this quote underscores the importance of a director spending time with the actors, observing their strengths, weaknesses, and idiosyncrasies. By doing so, the director can tailor their direction to each actor's individual needs, ultimately leading to more authentic and powerful performances.

Kazan's insightful words also shed light on the collaborative nature of filmmaking and theater. The quote implies that the director and actor must work together closely, with the director serving as a guide who understands and can harness the actor's abilities. This collaborative approach fosters a creative environment where the actor feels supported and empowered to deliver their best work.

In conclusion, Elia Kazan's quote encapsulates the essence of understanding an actor's capabilities and the pivotal role of the director in guiding and eliciting the best performances. It underscores the importance of a director's insight into an actor's strengths and weaknesses, and how this understanding forms the foundation for a successful director-actor partnership. Kazan's words continue to resonate in the world of filmmaking and theater, serving as a reminder of the profound impact that a director's understanding can have on the quality and authenticity of performances.