This is the age of insincerity. The movies had the misfortune to come along in the twentieth century, and because they appeal to the masses there can be no sincerity in them.
Meaning of the quote
This quote suggests that in the modern age, people often don't express their true feelings or beliefs. Movies, which became popular in the 1900s, are made to entertain large audiences, so they can't be completely honest or sincere. The actor believes that movies, because they try to please many people, cannot be truly sincere or genuine.
About Lionel Barrymore
Lionel Barrymore was an acclaimed American actor who won an Oscar for Best Actor and is best known for playing the villainous Mr. Potter in the Christmas classic ‘It’s a Wonderful Life.’ He also famously portrayed Ebenezer Scrooge in annual broadcasts of ‘A Christmas Carol’ and the character Dr. Leonard Gillespie in the ‘Dr. Kildare’ film series.
More quotes from Lionel Barrymore
This is the age of insincerity. The movies had the misfortune to come along in the twentieth century, and because they appeal to the masses there can be no sincerity in them.
American actor, director, screenwriter (1878-1954)
I can remember when nobody believed an actor and didn’t care what he believed.
American actor, director, screenwriter (1878-1954)
Half the people in Hollywood are dying to be discovered and the other half are afraid they will be.
American actor, director, screenwriter (1878-1954)
I’ve got a lot of ham in me.
American actor, director, screenwriter (1878-1954)
Hollywood is tied hand and foot to the demands for artificiality of the masses all over the world.
American actor, director, screenwriter (1878-1954)