Most likely best known for his role as Snape in the Harry Potter films, Alan Rickman passed away from cancer last week on Jan. 14, 2016, at the age of 69. He portrayed a variety of characters both on screen and on stage in theater productions. Often playing complex and antagonistic characters, Rickman will forever be known as one of a talented, versatile actor and director of his time.
Not just an actor, Rickman also left an impression through some of his more powerful quotes. Here are some of the best.
"Talent is an accident of genes--and a responsibility."
"A film, a piece of theater, a piece of music, or a book can make a difference. It can change the world."
"Certainly as actors, and maybe as directors, you’ve got to hang on to something childlike. You’ve got to know what play is.”
"It is an ancient need to be told in stories. But the story needs a great storyteller."
"I don’t remember it now, but I’m sure the difficult moments made me stronger, or, at least, that’s what I’ve trained myself to think."
"I do take my work seriously and the way to do that is not to take yourself too seriously."
"Acting touches nerves you have absolutely no control over."
"It’s not just work, it’s your life. And it’s a human need to be told stories. The more we’re governed by idiots and have no control over our destinies, the more we need to tell stories to each other about who we are, why we are, where we come from, and what might be possible. Or, what’s impossible? What’s a fantasy?"
"Each character I play has different dimensions. I’m not interested in words that pull them together."
"I want to swim in both directions at once. Desire success, court failure.
"If people want to know who I am, it is all in the work."
"The English language is so rich and cruel and beautiful, like a fireworks display, and yet it can be so subtle and so crude.”
"I think there should be laughs in everything. Sometimes, it’s a slammed door, a pie in the face or just a recognition of our frailties."
Alan Rickman, in the wake of his death, was described by fellow stars as a magnificent actor and a wonderful man. He is a modern icon whose legacy will continue for years to come. Thank you for what you gifted to us while you were here.
