I suppose I look for humor in most situations because it humanizes things; it makes a character much more three-dimensional if there's some kind of humor. Not necessarily laugh-out-loud type of stuff, just a sense that there is a humorous edge to things. I do like that.

In this quote, Colm Meaney, an actor known for his roles in both drama and comedy, explains his approach to incorporating humor into his performances. He believes that humor has the power to humanize situations, making characters feel more relatable and complex. By adding a layer of humor, even if subtle, a character becomes more three-dimensional, reflecting the nuances and contradictions present in real people. This shows that humor, even in small doses, can provide depth to a character and make them more engaging for the audience.

Meaney clarifies that the humor he refers to isn’t always the obvious, laugh-out-loud kind, but rather a more understated, humorous edge. This kind of humor can be more about tone, irony, or a character’s reaction to circumstances rather than overt jokes. The subtlety of this humor allows for a more natural expression of the complexities of life, where even serious situations can contain moments of lightness or irony. By weaving this subtle humor into a character, Meaney adds layers of realism and depth.

The quote also reflects Meaney's understanding that humor plays an important role in storytelling, not just for comic relief but as a tool for character development. Humor allows actors to create characters that feel more rounded and authentic, capturing the full spectrum of human experience. It serves to highlight the complexity of individuals, showing that even in tough or serious situations, humor is often present in some form, making the character more multifaceted and believable.

Ultimately, Meaney’s quote speaks to his belief in the importance of humor as a tool for creating richer, more complex characters. By recognizing the role humor plays in shaping how characters are perceived and understood, he highlights the value of even small, understated comedic moments in bringing a character to life. Humor, in this sense, is not just for laughs, but a fundamental part of portraying the depth and humanity of a character.