"I criticize those critics. The reason being that they're doing one of the worst things that ever can be done to an actor, which is to say, Look, you do what we like you to do or else"

This quote by James Lipton talks to the power of criticism and the impact it can have on a star. Lipton is criticizing those critics who utilize their power to manipulate actors into doing what they desire. He believes this is one of the worst things that can be done to a star, as it takes away their liberty to reveal themselves and their art. Lipton is suggesting that critics should be more respectful of actors and their craft, and not utilize their power to manage them. He thinks that criticism ought to be positive and not utilized as a tool to manipulate stars into doing what the critic wants. Lipton's quote is a reminder of the value of appreciating the art of acting and the actors who develop it.