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“Gaining Character”
The Big Kahuna
Released 1999
American comedy-drama film adapted from the play Hospitality Suite.
“Gaining Character” – Note
This is quite possibly Danny DeVito’s best performance. This clip takes place at the end of the movie between Phil and Bob. I recommend watching the whole film to truly appreciate the discussion about character and honesty.
“Gaining Character” – Dialogue
It doesn’t matter whether you’re selling Jesus or Buddha or civil rights or ‘How to Make Money in Real Estate With No Money Down
That doesn’t make you a human being; it makes you a marketing rep
If you want to talk to somebody honestly, as a human being, ask him about his kids … Find out what his dreams are – just to find out, for no other reason
Because as soon as you lay your hands on a conversation to steer it, it’s not a conversation anymore – it’s a pitch
And you’re not a human being – you’re a marketing rep
I’m saying you’ve already done plenty of things to regret, you just don’t know what they are
It’s when you discover them, when you see the folly in something you’ve done, and you wish that you had it do over, but you know you can’t, because it’s too late
So you pick that thing up, and carry it with you to remind you that life goes on, the world will spin without you, you really don’t matter in the end
Then you will gain character, because honesty will reach out from inside and tattoo itself across your face
