I'm here to make good pictures. If I don't see it, I won't touch it. I may not make a good picture, but I still gotta believe in it!
William WylerRead
Everything a director does must help the story and the performances. Otherwise, it is useless.
Interpretation
What this quote means
A director's choices should always serve the narrative and the actors' performances, or they lack purpose.
This quote emphasizes the crucial role of a director in filmmaking, stating that every decision made in the direction of a film should contribute meaningfully to the story being told and to the actors' portrayal of their characters. If the choices do not enhance these elements, they are rendered pointless, highlighting the importance of intentionality in creative leadership.
Themes
DirectorStorytellingPerformanceArtCinema
In practice
Example use cases
In a film class, discussing the importance of a director's vision.
More from William Wyler
All quotes βThe slightest thing can ruin a scene, but you must be willing to take chances.
William WylerRead
A director must push his actors to the utmost limit to get everything possible out of each scene - without being corny or sentimental or going overboard.
William WylerRead
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