"I had read the novel and I had heard David Lean was going to direct it - and it came as a surprise to me because American actors, if given the chance, can do style as well as anybody and speak as well as anybody"

Rod Steiger is expressing his surprise that David Lean, a British director, was selected to direct the film adjustment of an unique he had actually checked out. Steiger thinks that American stars can do design and speak as well as anyone else, and he was surprised that a British director was selected for the job. He suggests that American stars are simply as efficient in performing the style and discussion of the novel as any other star. Steiger's quote is a testimony to the skill of American actors and their ability to perform in any style or category. He thinks that American actors should be provided the possibility to reveal their talent and be given the exact same chances as any other star. His quote is a reminder that talent is not limited by nationality or location.