"You know, the blond guy plays the good guy and I play the bad part, the bad guys. Which is a lot of fun. Playing the bad guy is great. And it's the whole British thing. You know, in so many films the bad guy is British. Gary Oldman makes a living doing that"
- Matt Robinson
About this Quote
In the quote by Matt Robinson, there is an exploration of the stereotypical roles in movie and the cultural stereotypes related to these functions. Robinson highlights the typical practice in cinema where certain attributes, such as nationality, are often connected to particular character functions. Here, he explains the casting trope where British stars often represent bad guys, keeping in mind the star Gary Oldman, known for his adeptness at playing complex villain roles.
Robinson begins by contrasting functions: "the blonde guy plays the hero," suggesting the presence of visual or cultural shorthand in casting decisions. This may refer to a broader Hollywood propensity to associate particular physical characteristics-- like being blonde-- with brave qualities, leaving those who deviate from these traits to play more ominous characters. This aspect subtly critiques the industry's dependence on shallow or stereotypical casting, hinting at a lack of diversity and subtlety.
The star reveals satisfaction in playing bad guys: "Playing the bad guy is excellent." This shows a common sentiment among actors who often discover villain functions to be more tough and multifaceted than those of heroes. Bad guys provide stars the canvas to explore complex emotions, dark intentions, and the moral uncertainties of their characters, which can be more gratifying than the simple hero story.
Additionally, the "British thing" he discusses symbolizes a well-worn cinematic trope where British accents are utilized to suggest sophistication, shrewd, and sometimes malevolence. This association might have historical roots, possibly originating from colonial or imperialistic stories where British authority was seen with suspicion.
By referencing Gary Oldman, Robinson acknowledges a star who has mastered the art of playing nuanced antagonists, therefore strengthening the notion that typecasting can work as both a constraint and a specific niche for particular stars. Robinson's remarks eventually invite reflection on how cultural understandings form media representations, recommending space for evolution in how stories are informed and who gets to tell them.
This quote is written / told by Matt Robinson somewhere between March 5, 1974 and today. He was a famous Actor from USA.
The author also have 2 other quotes.