In simple terms, the speaker is highlighting a tradition within British acting that involves actors moving to Hollywood and taking on roles of antagonists or villains. This trend exists because of how British culture views and understands villainous characters from classic literature like Shakespeare’s plays, which are deeply ingrained in their upbringing.
The deeper meaning behind this statement touches upon cultural perceptions and the versatility of British actors. By growing up with complex, nuanced characters such as Richard III and Macbeth, who despite being villains are richly developed personalities, British actors learn to portray depth and complexity in their roles. This tradition reflects a willingness among these performers to challenge themselves artistically by embracing morally ambiguous or antagonistic parts, showcasing the range of their talent and the resilience of their craft.
The speaker of this quote is Mark Strong, an acclaimed English actor known for his versatility in both British and American cinema. His career includes a wide variety of roles, from supporting characters to leading villains, demonstrating his ability to command attention in any role he undertakes.
