"I remember hearing someone say that good acting is more about taking off a mask than putting one on, and in movie acting, certainly that's true. With the camera so close, you can see right down into your soul, hopefully. So being able to do that in a way is terrifying, and in another way, truly liberating. And I like that about it"

In this quote, Annette Bening reviews the art of acting and the vulnerability it needs. She recalls someone stating that true acting is not about putting on a facade, however rather about revealing one's real self. This is particularly true in film acting, where the camera catches every emotion and idea. Bening acknowledges that this can be frightening, as it requires baring one's soul to the world. However, she likewise sees it as liberating, as it allows for a deep and sincere connection with the audience. Bening values this aspect of acting and discovers it to be a powerful and fulfilling experience.