Time & Perspective Quote by Keir Dullea

It is the kind of throwaway line that quietly demystifies the whole machinery of screen work. Keir Dullea, forever etched into cultural memory as the cool, existential face of 2001: A Space Odyssey, isn’t reaching for grandeur here. He’s describing employment: a recurring role, a character with a punny name ("Doctor Imo" reads like "doctor, I’m..". trailing into a gag), a job defined by entrances and exits rather than heroic arcs. The comedy is dry and faintly self-deprecating: I’m not the star, I’m not the engine of the story, I’m a reliable component in the villain’s ecosystem.

The intent feels practical, even a little wry. Actors are constantly asked to narrativize their careers, to turn gigs into destiny. Dullea refuses. By framing the role as assisting the villain and appearing "from time to time", he highlights the unglamorous truth of episodic storytelling: most characters are functions. They deliver information, raise stakes, provide continuity, then disappear until the plot needs them again.

Subtext: there’s a professional pride in being useful without being central, and a subtle jab at how entertainment culture ranks importance. A recurring role is both security and insignificance. You’re wanted, but not indispensable. Coming from an actor associated with high-concept prestige, the line also undercuts our tendency to treat performers like permanent icons. Even legends spend plenty of time playing "Doctor Imo" - the guy who shows up, helps the bad guy, and clocks out.