"An actor is only merchandise"

This quote by Chow Yun-Fat speaks with the truth of the show business. As an actor, he knows that he is a commodity, an item that is bought and sold. He understands that his talent and abilities are being utilized to create profits for the production company. He is likewise mindful that his success is dependent on the general public's understanding of him and his work. He knows that he is a product that can be marketed and sold to the general public. He is aware that his success is not guaranteed and that he needs to continuously work to preserve his status as an effective actor. This quote speaks to the extreme realities of the show business and the need for stars to continuously make every effort to remain appropriate and effective.