Killing a man in defense of an idea is not defending an idea; it is killing a man.
Jean-Luc GodardRead
A film ingeniously directed does indeed give the impression of having been laid end to end, but a film ingeniously edited gives the impression of having suppressed all direction.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote discusses the contrasting effects of direction and editing in film, highlighting how each contributes to the viewer's experience.
Jean-Luc Godard's quote reflects on the art of filmmaking, emphasizing the significance of both direction and editing. A well-directed film provides a coherent narrative flow that guides the audience, while skillful editing can create a seamless experience that obscures the underlying structure, allowing for a more immersive engagement with the story. The quote points to the artistry involved in both these elements, suggesting that the viewer's perception is shaped by how the film is constructed.
Themes
FilmEditingDirectionArtCinema
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a film studies class to discuss the roles of a director and an editor.
More from Jean-Luc Godard
All quotes βI don't think you should feel about a film. You should feel about a woman, not a movie. You can't kiss a movie.
Jean-Luc GodardRead
Sometime reality is too complex. Stories give it form.
Jean-Luc GodardRead
More or less, I am always saying, 'Give me more. Let's do what has not been done.'
Jean-Luc GodardRead
Objects exist and if one pays more attention to them than to people, it is precisely because they exist more than the people. Dead objects are still alive. Living people are often already dead.
Jean-Luc GodardRead
Cinema is not a series of abstract ideas, but rather the phrasing of moments.
Jean-Luc GodardRead
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