The muscles you flex in theater are muscles that you really need. I must always find a way to get back there. It's irreplaceable.

Ralph Fiennes was a pivotal influence on me. He asked me, 'So what is it you want to do?' I very shyly, timidly admitted that I wanted to be an actor. He sighed, and he said, 'Lupita, only be an actor if you feel there is nothing else in the world you want to do - only do it if you feel you cannot live without acting.'

I want to be uncomfortable - acting is uncomfortable.

Lupita Nyong'o Quotes