I played guitar. I've always considered myself an actor, but I wasn't making a living as an actor. So I was in a couple of folk groups that managed to keep me in underwear and burritos.
Alan ArkinTwo-thirds of American movies are extensions of commercials -- they tell you how to feel and they tell you how to think -- rather than letting you figure it out on your own.
Alan ArkinIf you want to be an actor and you love acting, you can do it whether you're doing something else or not. You can be connected with community theater or make your own little movies. But, if you want to be a movie star, you've got a tough road ahead of you.
Alan ArkinI had a hard time treating my field as if itโs horse racing, putting actors in competition against each other. I see how the industry and the studios feel itโs important, but I donโt really have a feeling for being in competition. I want to feel sympathetic and close to others, not opposed to them.
Alan Arkin