I used to agonise over what to do next, but now I'm making a movie a year. It's insane, but it's only a movie after all. You just hang in there, and occasionally you might make something which you can call art... briefly.
Ridley ScottRead
If 'formulaic' is somebody who is unlikely to succeed starting down a process and succeeding - then isn't that what most films are about? And art films are about people who aren't likely to succeed and then don't succeed.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on the nature of storytelling in films, especially art films, which often depict characters grappling with failure rather than traditional success.
Ridley Scott highlights a critical observation about the essence of storytelling in cinema, particularly in art films. He suggests that many film narratives revolve around characters who face seemingly insurmountable odds and often fail, challenging the conventional notion of success. This perspective invites viewers to appreciate the beauty and depth in the struggles of these characters, emphasizing that the journey and its challenges can be more meaningful than the ultimate outcome.
Themes
FilmArtSuccessFailureStorytelling
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a film analysis discussion to emphasize the themes of struggle in cinema.
More from Ridley Scott
All quotes →The best stories come out of the truth.
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In my view, the only way to see a film remains the way the filmmaker intended: inside a large movie theater with great sound and pristine picture.
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I think over time I've learned to stop being a screamer and get interactive; otherwise, you get killed in Hollywood. I stopped being a screamer shortly after 'Blade Runner,' kicking doors and things like that, because I wasn't actually getting anywhere.
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I've gradually realised that what I do best is universes. And I shouldn't be afraid of that.
Ridley ScottRead
Everyone is tearing each other apart in the name of their personal god. And the irony is, by definition, they're probably worshiping the same god.
Ridley ScottRead
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