" With some writers, the script looks beautiful on the page, but nobody actually speaks like that. "
- Neve McIntosh

In everyday conversations, people often speak using casual language filled with colloquialisms, slang, or even incomplete sentences, rather than adhering strictly to formal grammatical rules. This statement suggests that while some writers can create scripts and narratives that look impressive when read on the page, they may not accurately reflect how real people converse in their daily lives.

The quote highlights a significant challenge faced by playwrights and screenwriters: crafting dialogue that is both engaging and realistic. It implies that true mastery lies in capturing authentic human speech patterns and nuances, making characters feel relatable and believable to an audience. This involves understanding the subtleties of language beyond mere syntax—incorporating hesitations, repetitions, regional accents, and cultural influences that shape everyday conversation.

Neve McIntosh is a Scottish actress best known for her role as Amy Dorfler in the BBC science fiction drama "Torchwood." Her comment reflects insights gained from extensive work in television and film, where she has interacted closely with various scripts and observed the impact of dialogue authenticity on audience engagement.