I like very dry humor. I don't like things that are over the top. I like subtlety. I like things that are nonchalant. I like characters that are sort of monotone and based in dark comedy.

In this quote, Emily Rios is sharing her personal preference for a particular style of humor. She explains that she enjoys dry humor, which is typically understated, clever, and delivered in a straight-faced manner, without exaggerated emotions or reactions. Rios expresses a dislike for over-the-top comedy, which tends to be more exaggerated or slapstick. Instead, she gravitates toward subtlety, which involves humor that is more nuanced and requires the audience to pay attention to the smaller, often more understated details of the performance.

Rios also mentions her affinity for nonchalant characters—those who appear indifferent, unperturbed, or unmoved by the events around them. This personality type often adds to the effectiveness of dry humor, as it can make the character seem even more ironic or amusing when faced with absurd situations. She is drawn to monotone performances, where the delivery is flat or emotionless, which can enhance the humor by making it feel more grounded and real.

The origin of this quote likely reflects Rios’s experiences in both her acting career and her personal tastes. As an actress known for roles in dramas such as The Bridge and The Red Line, Rios often portrays characters with more reserved or stoic qualities. Her preference for this type of humor may have influenced the way she approaches roles, gravitating toward those that are based in dark comedy, a genre known for tackling serious or grim topics with a sense of irony or sarcasm.

Ultimately, Rios's quote underscores her appreciation for humor that doesn't rely on obvious or loud performances. She values humor that is more intelligent, nuanced, and understated, often delivered by characters who maintain a calm or indifferent demeanor even in dark or uncomfortable situations. This preference aligns with a style of comedy that is not about making the audience laugh loudly, but rather about inviting them to find humor in the subtleties and contrasts of the situation.