As an actor you have to have a strong vivid imagination as you're working and when the camera's rolling, but there's certainly a part of you that is aware of real life, that you're making a movie.

John Hawkes’ quote, "As an actor you have to have a strong vivid imagination as you're working and when the camera's rolling, but there's certainly a part of you that is aware of real life, that you're making a movie," speaks to the balance actors must strike between immersing themselves in their characters and maintaining an awareness of the broader context. Hawkes emphasizes that a strong and vivid imagination is essential for an actor to fully embody the character they are portraying, allowing them to react and live in the moment of the scene. This imaginative engagement is crucial for delivering a believable and compelling performance.

However, Hawkes acknowledges that acting is not purely about escapism. Even as an actor dives deeply into their imagination to bring a character to life, they must remain grounded in real life—an awareness that they are part of a collaborative project and that the context is a movie being filmed. This dual awareness allows actors to stay connected to the world they are creating, while also being mindful of the technical aspects, such as the direction, camera work, and timing.

This tension between artistic immersion and practical awareness is an important part of an actor’s craft. While the actor may become emotionally invested in the role, they cannot fully forget the mechanics of the film industry. It’s this balance that enables them to deliver authentic performances while also adapting to the demands of the filmmaking process.

Ultimately, Hawkes’ quote reflects the complexity of acting as a profession. It requires both an intuitive connection with the character and an objective understanding of the broader process, highlighting the skill involved in navigating both creative and technical dimensions.