Why Did Anthony Hopkins Tell Josh Brolin an Alcoholic's Motor Is a Good Thing?

Josh Brolin says a story Anthony Hopkins told him shifted something. Hopkins wears his sobriety proudly and asked how great it is to be the way they are. He meant they are alcoholic, angry, edgy, and dark. Josh Brolin had always perceived that as shitty.

Hopkins said no. Given no direction and no tools, they create more harm and hurt than most people. Given a few tools, they can have a bigger impact than most people, because they have the drive and the motor of alcoholics.

Josh Brolin agreed. The words came from an 80 year old man.