Paul Newman named Sully, his character in Robert Benton's 1994 drama Nobody's Fool, as the role he felt closest to among his entire filmography. Newman said he identified with the character's guardedness and tendency to isolate himself, comparing it to the way successful actors build emotional shields to protect their private lives, which can end up affecting their personal relationships.

Newman explained that Sully's search for privacy leads him to put up walls that eventually break down, adding "I've been there, and I know what it's like." The connection was reinforced by director Benton, who reportedly shaped the script and dialogue around Newman's own life and mannerisms, giving the actor freedom to adapt his lines. Newman said he hoped the film conveyed the message that change is "possible, and often desirable, and frequently unexpected."