"I think I've spent so much time playing characters that are so far away from me and learning how to technically build and how to technically put something on top of you"

In this quote, star Josh Lucas assesses his experiences in the craft of acting, highlighting the obstacles and methods involved in portraying characters that differ significantly from his own personality or life experiences. The essence of his declaration lies in the concept of improvement and the technical skill required to convincingly embody a character that is distant from one's real self.

Lucas begins by acknowledging the substantial amount of time he has committed to his profession, concentrating on functions that require stepping beyond his convenience zone. This element underscores a star's journey, often defined by checking out varied personalities and diving into unknown areas, both emotionally and behaviorally. For stars like Lucas, the attraction of the occupation may partially originate from this very chance to become someone else, if only briefly, allowing for an expedition of various human conditions and experiences.

The phrase "discovering how to technically develop" implies a meticulous procedure underlying character advancement. Acting, while typically perceived as spontaneous or instinctual, involves a great deal of preparation, research study, and methodical construction. Lucas suggests that sharpening these technical skills is essential for credibility, which involves dissecting a character's psychology, understanding their motivations, and embodying their nuances through voice, posture, and mannerisms.

Moreover, when Lucas describes putting "something on top of you", he touches on the idea of layering. This is a strategy where stars layer their own experiences and emotions beneath the character's traits, producing an abundant tapestry that merges truth with fiction. This process enables the star to inhabit the character totally while maintaining a connection to their core self. It's a fragile balance between credibility and artifice, demanding both self-awareness and creativity.

In essence, the quote catches the elaborate interaction in between an actor's individuality and the crafted personas they depict, and underscores the technical expertise and creativity required to bring complex characters to life on screen or stage.