"Every scene should be a miniature play with a beginning, middle and end."
Ernst Lubitsch's quote emphasizes the importance of structure and self-contained narrative in filmmaking. In every scene, there should be a clear setup (beginning), development (middle), and resolution (end). This approach ensures that each scene has a purpose, progresses the story, and leaves an impact on the audience, much like a miniature play or short story within the larger context of the movie. This method enhances the overall coherence and flow of the film, contributing to its effectiveness in engaging viewers and conveying the intended themes and messages.
"The secret of a good scenario is that nothing happens - but everyone changes."
This quote by Ernst Lubitsch emphasizes the power of character development and emotional growth within a story, rather than relying on external events or plot twists for impact. A well-crafted narrative doesn't necessarily require grand action or climactic moments; instead, it should focus on how the characters evolve throughout the course of the story. By showing the internal journey of the characters and their transformation, Lubitsch suggests that a good script can create profound changes within the audience as they connect with and empathize with these evolving individuals.
"I make 'em laugh, I make 'em cry, I make 'em think, and then I make 'em forget it all before they go out to the lobby."
Ernst Lubitsch, a renowned German-American filmmaker, expresses his creative philosophy in this quote. He asserts that through his films, he evokes a range of emotional responses from laughter to tears, stimulates thought, and then intentionally designs the narrative structure to allow audiences to forget the deeper implications before leaving the theater, or "the lobby". This approach suggests a form of escapism, where movies serve as temporary refuge from reality.
"There are no small parts, only small actors."
Ernst Lubitsch's quote, "There are no small parts, only small actors," emphasizes that every role, regardless of its size or significance in a production, is crucial to the overall success of a performance. It suggests that an actor's skill and ability can elevate even the smallest part to make it impactful and memorable for the audience. In essence, Lubitsch highlights the importance of each individual contributing to a piece, regardless of their perceived importance or screen time.
"All you need for a movie is a gun and a girl."
Ernst Lubitsch's quote, "All you need for a movie is a gun and a girl," suggests that classic narrative storytelling can be effectively conveyed through two universal elements: conflict (represented by the gun) and desire or relationships (represented by the girl). These two components have been fundamental in creating engaging stories across various genres, appealing to a wide audience. The essence of this quote lies in its simplicity, encapsulating the core elements of drama, tension, and human connection that are often at the heart of compelling movies.
If you're searching for quotes on a different topic, feel free to browse our Topics page or explore a diverse collection of quotes from various Authors to find inspiration.