Emily Watson: 'You have to play the logic of a character.'

You have to play the logic of a character.

The quote by Emily Watson, "You have to play the logic of a character," holds significant meaning and importance in the realm of acting and character portrayal. At first glance, the quote reminds us of the essential task an actor has - to fully understand and embody the thought process and reasoning of the character they portray. It is about finding the internal logic that guides the character's actions, beliefs, and decisions. As an actor, it is essential to dive into the depths of a character's psyche, grasping their motivations and understanding the logic that drives them.But let's take a moment to introduce an unexpected philosophical concept into this discussion - existentialism. Existentialism, a philosophical movement popularized in the 20th century, emphasizes the individual's freedom to create their own meaning in life. The concept of "playing the logic of a character" can be seen as a microcosmic reflection of the larger existential struggle. Just as individuals have the freedom to choose their own path and create their own meaning, actors must navigate the intricate web of a character's logic, aligning it with their own creative interpretation.Both concepts, the logic of a character and existentialism, share a common thread - the exploration of human consciousness and the search for authenticity. By delving into a character's logic, an actor seeks to unearth the truth and intelligence within their roles. In a similar vein, existentialism encourages individuals to strive for authenticity and genuine self-expression. It prompts people to confront their own internal logic and align their actions with their own personal truths.Yet, there exists a subtle difference between the two notions. While an actor may play the logic of a character to bring it to life, existentialism demands that individuals create their own logic and meaning. As an actor constructs the internal logic of a character, they must be careful not to lose themselves entirely, remaining true to their own artistic vision and interpretation. On the other hand, in the realm of existentialism, individuals are urged to question preconceived notions of logic and construct their own subjective understanding of reality.In essence, Emily Watson's quote reminds actors to wholeheartedly engage with a character's logic while simultaneously reminding us of the greater human endeavor to find our own paths and make sense of our experiences. Actors play the logic of a character, breathing life into the roles they embody, while individuals grapple with their own personal philosophies and navigate the complexities of existence.So, from the world of acting to the realm of existentialism, the concept of "playing the logic of a character" offers an intriguing parallel. It suggests that the search for authentic self-expression is not confined solely to the stage but extends to all aspects of life. Whether on or offscreen, we are all playing characters, constructing our logic, and aiming to bring truth and meaning to our existence. So let us embrace this challenge and remember to play not only the logic of characters but also the logic of our own lives.