Meaning: The quote by Joshua Leonard, an actor, encapsulates the essence of the actor's approach to character development and the emotional connection with the roles they portray. This quote highlights the significance of establishing an emotional bond with the character as the initial step in the process of bringing a role to life. By emphasizing the importance of emotional identification with the character, Leonard sheds light on the depth of understanding and empathy that actors seek to achieve in their portrayal of diverse roles.

When Leonard mentions identifying emotionally with a character, he is referring to the actor's ability to empathize and connect with the thoughts, feelings, and experiences of the character they are portraying. This emotional connection serves as the foundation for creating a compelling and authentic performance. By immersing themselves in the emotional landscape of the character, actors can tap into the nuances of their personality, motivations, and inner world, thus allowing for a more profound and genuine portrayal.

The subsequent part of the quote delves into the practical aspect of character development, emphasizing the importance of understanding the character's life circumstances and bringing them to life through practice and research. This highlights the actor's commitment to delving into the intricacies of the character's background, experiences, and environment. By doing so, actors gain a comprehensive understanding of the character's context, which enriches their portrayal and imbues it with depth and authenticity.

Leonard's emphasis on practice and research underscores the dedication and discipline required in the craft of acting. It indicates that beyond the initial emotional connection, actors engage in meticulous preparation and study to embody the character convincingly. This may involve researching historical or cultural contexts, studying relevant psychological or behavioral patterns, or developing specific skills or mannerisms associated with the character.

Furthermore, the quote reflects the multifaceted nature of character development, encompassing both the emotional and practical dimensions. It highlights the symbiotic relationship between the actor's emotional engagement and their commitment to thorough preparation, emphasizing that both elements are essential in crafting a compelling performance.

In essence, Joshua Leonard's quote encapsulates the intricate process of character development for actors. It underscores the significance of emotional identification as the cornerstone of a compelling portrayal, while also acknowledging the necessity of thorough research and practice. By striking a balance between emotional connection and practical preparation, actors can breathe life into their characters and convey a profound and authentic representation on stage or screen.

In summary, Joshua Leonard's quote provides valuable insights into the actor's approach to character development, emphasizing the pivotal role of emotional identification and the subsequent commitment to research and practice. This holistic approach underscores the depth and complexity of the actor's craft, illuminating the profound emotional and intellectual engagement required to bring characters to life convincingly.