In interviews, successful American actor Harvey Keitel, who has starred in movies like "Mean Streets" and "Pulp Fiction," frequently offers advice on the art of acting. He talked about the value of commitment and diligence among actors in one interview.
Keitel used a metaphor to describe actors as artisans who must continuously improve their craft and work hard to produce something lovely. He emphasized that although acting may appear glamorous or effortless to some, it actually takes a great deal of planning, practice, and passion. An actor must carefully and devotedly construct their performance, much like a carpenter builds furniture piece by piece.
Keitel acknowledged that his statement that all actors must do what is required to succeed was a little over the top, but his point is still very clear: those who genuinely comprehend the art and responsibility of acting will work hard. Vince, a young actor renowned for his skill and dedication, was singled out by him as an example of this mindset.
Like a chef carefully preparing a meal or an artist painstakingly painting a canvas, Keitel's message essentially exhorts actors to take their roles seriously and approach each performance with respect and diligence. This commitment is what turns undeveloped talent into something genuinely amazing on screen.