Elia Kazan quotes

Elia Kazan was an influential American director, producer, and writer of Greek descent, renowned for his work in theater and film. Known for directing classics like "A Streetcar Named Desire" and "On the Waterfront", his innovative approaches changed American cinema and theater. He was also a controversial figure due to his testimony before the House Un-American Activities Committee. Here are 72 of his quotes:

I spoke without fear of contradiction. I simply did not suffer self-doubt.

Elia Kazan

The writer, when he is also an artist, is someone who admits what others don't dare reveal.

Elia Kazan

You have to remind people of their own struggles. It's a responsibility.

Elia Kazan

The motion pictures I have made and the plays I have chosen to direct represent my convictions.

Elia Kazan

I like directors who come on the set and create something that's a little dangerous, difficult or unusual.

Elia Kazan

A film director has to get a shot, no matter what he does. We're desperate people.

Elia Kazan

To be a member of the Communist Party is to have a taste of the police state. It is a diluted taste but is bitter and unforgettable.

Elia Kazan

I used to spend most of my time straining to be a nice guy so people would like me.

Elia Kazan

I was not a collective person or a bohemian; I was an elitist.

Elia Kazan

Whatever hysteria exists is inflamed by mystery, suspicion and secrecy. Hard and exact facts will cool it.

Elia Kazan

Every fighter has one fight that makes or breaks him.

Elia Kazan

The first thing you should do with an actor is not sign a contract with him. Take him to dinner. And take him for a walk afterwards.

Elia Kazan

The world was like a huge red carpet out ahead of me to be walked on. And it stretched on and on, no end.

Elia Kazan

I was both very successful and very left; the living demonstration of how you could be on the left and still be in the gossip columns and be envied for the money you made.

Elia Kazan

The Communists automatically violated the daily practices of democracy to which I was accustomed.

Elia Kazan

I want to thank the Academy for its courage and generosity.

Elia Kazan

You have no idea how fragile an actor's self-worth is.

Elia Kazan

What's called a difficult decision is a difficult decision because either way you go there are penalties.

Elia Kazan

I was always a self-conscious person.

Elia Kazan

Never underestimate the narcissism of a writer.

Elia Kazan

I said to Tennessee, this thing is becoming the Marlon Brando show.

Elia Kazan

I hate the Communists and have for many years and don't feel right about giving up my career to defend them. I will give up my film career if it is in the interests of defending something I believe in, but not this.

Elia Kazan