D. W. Griffith Quotes

Powerful D. W. Griffith for Daily Growth

About D. W. Griffith

Daniel Wark Griffith, commonly known as D.W. Griffith, was an influential American filmmaker born on January 22, 1875, in La Grange, Kentucky. He is often recognized as the pioneer of narrative filmmaking, having made significant contributions to cinema storytelling and techniques. Griffith began his career in show business by working for a traveling circus before joining the Biograph Company in 1908. It was here that he gained recognition for his innovative cinematic approaches, such as close-ups, scene transitions, and complex narrative structures. His groundbreaking work "The Birth of a Nation" (1915) marked a turning point in film history. Despite its racially controversial content, it revolutionized film editing and visual storytelling, showcasing Griffith's extraordinary talent for directing. His other major works include "Intolerance: Love's Struggle Throughout the Ages" (1916) and a series of short films known as the Biograph Jeepers Creepers collection. These films demonstrated Griffith's ability to create compelling narratives and emotional resonance on screen. Griffith's life was marked by both great success and controversy. His works were praised for their technical innovation, but also criticized for their racial and social biases. Despite these challenges, he remained a major figure in the early development of the film industry, influencing countless directors who followed in his footsteps. D.W. Griffith passed away on July 23, 1948, leaving behind an indelible impact on cinema that continues to be felt today. His pioneering spirit and innovative techniques laid the foundation for modern filmmaking, making him a true cinematic legend.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"I don't want to make history, I want to entertain."

D.W. Griffith, a pioneering filmmaker, emphasizes that his primary intention is not to create history, but to entertain. This statement reflects his focus on creating engaging and enjoyable cinematic experiences rather than attempting to make groundbreaking historical or social statements through his work.

"The art of drama lies in the dramatic presentation of human passions and actions."

This quote by D.W. Griffith emphasizes that the essence of drama revolves around portraying human emotions and actions dramatically, rather than merely telling a story. It suggests that the power of drama lies in its ability to evoke strong feelings in an audience through vivid depictions of human experiences, conflicts, and interactions. The artistry comes from how these elements are presented, creating a sense of drama or intensity that resonates with viewers on an emotional level.

"Films are a series of images which convey ideas or feelings."

This quote by D.W. Griffith succinctly encapsulates the essence of filmmaking, suggesting that films communicate thoughts and emotions through a sequence of visual images. Essentially, Griffith asserts that films are more than mere entertainment; they have the power to express ideas and evoke feelings in their audience, making them powerful storytelling mediums capable of both edification and empathy.

"In the beginning, D. W. Griffith, like any other man, was very ignorant of the cinema."

This quote underscores the universal principle that even great pioneers in their respective fields started with limited knowledge. It emphasizes that no one is inherently an expert; instead, expertise comes from learning, experimentation, and continuous growth. In this context, D. W. Griffith, a renowned filmmaker, acknowledges his initial lack of knowledge about cinema, highlighting the importance of embracing ignorance as a stepping stone towards mastery.

"I try to avoid sentimentality and always endeavor to find something real in every scene I make."

D.W. Griffith's quote emphasizes his pursuit of authenticity over emotional manipulation in his filmmaking. By "something real" he refers to the portrayal of genuine emotions, characters, or situations that resonate with audiences beyond mere sentimentality. This approach allows for a more profound and meaningful connection between the audience and the story being told.

It takes two years on the stage for an actor or an actress to learn how to speak correctly and to manage his voice properly, and it takes about ten years to master the subtle art of being able to hold one's audience.

- D. W. Griffith

Voice, Two, About, Manage

I am fond of depicting the lives of young folks for one thing, and if you have parts for girls or young men, you must absolutely have young people to fill them - that is generally acknowledged now.

- D. W. Griffith

Young, Acknowledged, Fond, Depicting

Now supposing I had the part of a young woman to give out, one that wanted some excellent acting. If I were to go to the stage for my actress I would have to take a matured woman, one who would act splendidly, but who would look too old for the requirements.

- D. W. Griffith

Woman, Young, Some, Matured

Remember how small the world was before I came along? I brought it all to life: I moved the whole world onto a 20-foot screen.

- D. W. Griffith

Small, Before, Brought, I Came

Movies are written in sand: applauded today, forgotten tomorrow.

- D. W. Griffith

Movies, Sand, Applauded, Forgotten

When I work for someone else, I always make money for them. When I back my own ideas, I am bound to lose.

- D. W. Griffith

Work, Always, My Own, Bound

There will never be talking pictures.

- D. W. Griffith

Never, Will, Talking, Pictures

I pick out young people and teach them in less time than it would take me to alter the methods of people from the boards, and I get actors who look the parts they have to fill.

- D. W. Griffith

Young, Methods, Boards, Less Time

Actors should never be important. Only directors should have power and place.

- D. W. Griffith

Important, Never, Should, Directors

Well, I certainly did not think that I could do worse.

- D. W. Griffith

Think, Well, Could, Certainly

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