When you're acting, playing the bad guy, you get a chance to open up this box inside and look at all the bad things that you've got in there.

In this quote, Martin Kemp, an actor and musician, explores the psychological aspect of playing the bad guy in films or television. He suggests that when portraying a villainous character, an actor has the opportunity to delve into the darker parts of their own psyche. By "opening up this box inside," Kemp implies that the process of acting allows one to explore the negative emotions and traits that may exist within them, even if those aspects are not part of their everyday behavior.

Kemp’s words reflect the complexity of acting and the emotional range required to convincingly portray a villain. In order to play the bad guy authentically, an actor must tap into emotions like anger, jealousy, or revenge—traits often associated with antagonistic characters. This process of exploration allows actors to confront and express these emotions in a controlled, fictional environment, which can be both cathartic and transformative.

The quote also touches on the duality of human nature, suggesting that everyone has a mix of good and bad within them. Kemp’s acknowledgment of the "bad things" inside suggests that understanding and confronting these aspects is essential to portraying a villain with depth and authenticity. Rather than simply playing a one-dimensional character, an actor must access a range of emotions that bring the role to life.

Ultimately, Martin Kemp's quote reflects the power of acting as a tool for self-exploration and expression. By portraying villainous characters, actors are able to safely examine the darker elements of human nature, both within themselves and in society, while also challenging the audience’s understanding of morality and character.