Tom Noonan Quotes

Powerful Tom Noonan for Daily Growth

About Tom Noonan

Tom Noonan is an American actor, playwright, film director, and musician, whose multifaceted career spans over four decades. Born on August 9, 1951, in Brooklyn, New York, Noonan developed a deep affinity for the arts at an early age, influenced by his parents who were both musicians. Noonan's acting career took off in the late 1970s, with roles in various Off-Broadway productions. He gained prominence with his role as Louis Tully, a possessed apartment tenant, in the iconic 1984 film 'Ghostbusters.' However, Noonan is perhaps best known for his original work, both on stage and screen. As a playwright, Noonan's most notable works include 'The Worst-Case Scenario,' which won an Obie Award in 1987, and 'The Dark at the Top of the Stairs,' adapted from William Inge's Pulitzer Prize-winning play. As a director, he is known for his films 'What Happened Was...' (1980) and 'Middle of Nowhere' (1988), the latter earning him an Independent Spirit Award nomination. In addition to his work in theater and film, Noonan is also an accomplished musician, releasing several albums under the name Tom Noonan & The Moldy Peaches. His unique blend of folk, blues, and rock has earned him a dedicated following. Throughout his career, Tom Noonan's versatility as an artist has been evident in his various roles, from acting to writing to music, making him a significant figure in American arts and entertainment.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The greatest pleasure in life is doing what people say you cannot do."

This quote highlights a profound appreciation for overcoming obstacles and proving one's abilities, even when faced with skepticism or doubt from others. The joy derived from such achievements lies in the satisfaction of defying expectations, demonstrating resilience, and showcasing personal growth. It encourages individual determination, perseverance, and self-belief, suggesting that breaking through perceived limitations can bring immense fulfillment and a sense of accomplishment in life.


"To find oneself on the side of the angels is a dubious distinction indeed."

This quote suggests that aligning oneself with what is generally considered 'right' or 'good' (the side of the angels) may not necessarily mean one is virtuous or noble, as it could simply reflect conformity to societal norms or expectations. It implies a caution against assuming moral superiority based on adherence to accepted standards, and encourages introspection and self-examination instead.


"The more I know about other people, the more I like my dog."

Tom Noonan's quote suggests that as one becomes more familiar with people and their complexities, imperfections, and possibly disappointing behaviors, one may develop a stronger appreciation for the simplicity, loyalty, and unconditional love that a pet such as a dog provides in comparison. Essentially, the quote underscores the comfort and trust found in the relationship between a person and their dog, which can sometimes feel elusive when dealing with other human beings.


"Life is just a series of small, almost imperceptible choices that ultimately lead to drastic changes in our lives."

This quote suggests that life's seemingly minor decisions can have profound impacts over time. It implies that the accumulation of these small choices shape our destinies significantly, leading us down different paths without us always realizing it. In essence, we are constantly making decisions that influence the direction and outcome of our lives, and these choices may not always be apparent in their immediate effects but can have far-reaching consequences.


"If you're going to do something wrong, do it right."

The quote by Tom Noonan, "If you're going to do something wrong, do it right," can be interpreted as a call for individuals to fully commit and take responsibility in their actions, even if those actions are deemed unethical or illegal. It suggests that if one is determined to engage in negative behavior, they should strive to execute it skillfully and with precision, rather than committing half-hearted efforts or making mistakes that could lead to further consequences. Ultimately, the message encourages individuals to make thoughtful decisions and consider the potential repercussions of their actions, as a life lived without regret is preferable to one filled with remorse for misguided choices.


When I first started acting, somebody once said to me that anything that is a problem that prevents you from getting a job will eventually be a strength. It works both ways. The odder you are, the harder it is to get work, but once you sort of establish it, you have no competition.

- Tom Noonan

Strength, Works, Prevents, Establish

Making 'bad people' seem human is the key to making them really scary.

- Tom Noonan

Bad, Making, Them, Bad People

I don't think you go to a play to forget, or to a movie to be distracted. I think life generally is a distraction and that going to a movie is a way to get back, not go away.

- Tom Noonan

Play, Think, I Think, Distracted

I've done a lot of action movies, and there has to be a certain amount of emotion in the actual performing of the stunt. It doesn't have to be any particular emotion, but there has to be some life to it, and that's not so easy.

- Tom Noonan

Some, Actual, Amount, Action Movies

I think I probably have a creepy kind of scary quality. Otherwise, I wouldn't get jobs. But I also think it has a little bit to do with, you've done it a couple times, and then people see you that way.

- Tom Noonan

Think, Couple, Otherwise, Couple Times

I think that's what happens when you get scared, and you're rushing, and you don't have time. Rather than cut things out and take a chance, and build things up you think are working, you cut everything down a little bit, and everything sort of suffers.

- Tom Noonan

I Think, Rather, Cut, Rushing

I tend to be very private. It's easier for me. When you're acting, you're very susceptible to comments that somebody makes, so if they know something is going to happen on the show, and they say something, it can actually throw you off. So I tend to not share things with anybody.

- Tom Noonan

Private, Anybody, Very, They Say

When I was a little kid, no matter what my parents told me, I would always argue - even if I agreed with them. And I've always been a show-off. As I've gotten older, I've found ways to be more subtle about it, but that's the way I am. I suppose that has something to do with why I write and direct.

- Tom Noonan

Been, I Write, Gotten, Suppose

Everybody has a lot of darkness in them because without that you're not a whole person.

- Tom Noonan

Person, Everybody, Lot, Darkness

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