Well, I'm not a method actress by any stretch of the imagination so the best thing that I can do is be as real as possible and find whatever commonality in that character that I can see myself.

In this quote, Rashida Jones discusses her approach to acting, specifically distancing herself from the method acting technique, which typically involves deeply immersing oneself in a character's psyche and emotions to the point of blurring the line between the actor and the role. Jones states that she is "not a method actress," implying that she does not engage in the extreme psychological techniques often associated with this style of acting. Instead, she focuses on being real and authentic in her portrayal of characters.

Jones explains that the best way for her to approach a role is by being as real as possible. This means she relies on her own emotions and experiences to connect with the character, making her performance grounded in authenticity. Rather than overanalyzing or deeply inhabiting the character’s life, she seeks to find aspects of the character with which she can relate, thereby creating a more genuine performance based on shared commonality.

By focusing on commonality between herself and the character, Jones suggests that a strong performance comes from recognizing and embracing the similarities between her own personality and the traits of the role. This approach allows her to bring depth to the character without needing to fully lose herself in the role. It reflects her belief that the emotional connection to the character can be achieved through personal understanding and subtle interpretation.

Ultimately, Jones’s quote highlights her acting philosophy, which contrasts with the more intense and immersive approach of method acting. She emphasizes the value of authenticity and emotional connection in her performances, focusing on what is relatable and genuine within the character rather than attempting to embody a persona through extreme methods.