"Everyone said that if you want to be a real actor, go to New York. If you want to sell out, go to LA. And I thought - I want to sell out!"
About this Quote
In this quote by Jennifer Tilly, she humorously addresses the longstanding stereotypes and understandings surrounding the acting scenes in New York City and Los Angeles. Her words show a common sentiment in the entertainment industry: that New York is the location for "severe" actors devoted to sharpening their craft through theater and intense study, whereas Los Angeles is often viewed as the center of commercial success, largely through television and movie, where the focus may alter towards star and financial gain.
By mentioning, "Everyone stated that if you want to be a real star, go to New York. If you want to sell out, go to LA", Tilly highlights a perceived dichotomy between creative integrity and commercial success. "Real" acting in New York suggests a commitment to the art form, potentially prioritizing passion jobs, phase performances, and functions that challenge and improve actors mentally and intellectually. On the other hand, "selling out" by going to LA indicates choosing a path more aligned with mainstream success, possibly at the cost of creative pureness.
When Tilly concludes with, "And I believed - I want to offer out!", she includes a layer of paradox and self-awareness. Her admission challenges the negative undertone of "selling out", embracing the concept that pursuing business success is a legitimate and practical choice. It likewise recommends that what some consider as "offering out" might just be aligning one's work with where their chances, interests, and monetary objectives intersect.
Ultimately, Tilly's quote reflects an understanding that the meanings of success and fulfillment in acting can be fluid and personal. The choice to pursue functions in New York versus LA does not necessarily specify a star's talent or commitment to their craft. Rather, she welcomes the reality that in an industry as diverse and competitive as entertainment, there's merit, and perhaps requirement, in pursuing a course that sustains both one's enthusiasm and income.
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