Everybody comes to film differently; everybody has different backgrounds. Just find whatever your lane is naturally. Don't try to force yourself into someone else's vision or try to tell a story that you're not passionate about.
F. Gary GrayRead
I'm not afraid of a big studio film; I trust my instincts. But for me, it's not really about box office. It's about looking back on your work and not having to apologize for it.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes creating art without compromising integrity for commercial success.
F. Gary Gray expresses that while he is confident in his ability to work on major film productions, what truly matters to him is the authenticity and integrity of his artistic expression. He values the ability to look back at his work with pride rather than regret, suggesting that the artistic journey should prioritize personal satisfaction over financial gain or public approval.
In practice
In a speech discussing the importance of artistic integrity in the film industry.
Everybody comes to film differently; everybody has different backgrounds. Just find whatever your lane is naturally. Don't try to force yourself into someone else's vision or try to tell a story that you're not passionate about.
Early on, a story's meaning and rationale seem pretty obvious, but then, as I write it, I realize that I know the meaning/rationale too well, which means that the reader will also know it - and so things have to be ramped up.
I often recall these words when I am writing, and I think to myself, “It’s true. There aren’t any new words. Our job is to give new meanings and special overtones to absolutely ordinary words.” I find the thought reassuring. It means that vast, unknown stretches still lie before us, fertile territories just waiting for us to cultivate them.
I just admire people like Woody Allen, who every year writes an original screenplay. It's astonishing. I always wished that I could do that.
An empty canvas is a living wonder - far lovelier than certain pictures.
One should not become an artist because he can, but because he must. It is only for those who would be miserable without it.
As for my voice, it cannot be categorised - and I like it that way, because I sing things that would be considered in the dramatic, mezzo or spinto range.
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