From Matt Hoverman, whose participation in ENVY the documentary inspired him to create the magnificent ENVY Ed:
As a playwright, I’ve always been attracted to myth and archetype. As an actor, I’ve always loved mask work and commedia. And as a 41 year old adolescent, I’m a big fan of comic books. What these imaginative strains all share is the opportunity to externalize, personify and comically exaggerate a human tendency or character defect.
I know I have many of these little characters in me, and most aren’t pretty. I picture the envious side of myself as a squat, bilious, unhappy little creature (named ENVY Ed) – who carries in his sallow little heart what John Lithgow once said, “It’s not enough for you to succeed- your best friends must fail.”
That part of me is forever dwelling on the unearned glories of others and his own unlucky misfortunes, and though he can fake a smile at someone else’s success, he’s always got a sharp knife waiting behind his back. I find that fighting a part of myself like that only makes him grow. But when I find a way to lovingly laugh at his absurdity, his power over me fades.
Amazing, Matt. Thank you!
