Irvin Kershner Quotes

Powerful Irvin Kershner for Daily Growth

About Irvin Kershner

Irvin Kershner, born on December 29, 1923, in Brooklyn, New York, was an eminent American film director, producer, and photographer, best known for directing the iconic 'Star Wars' episode V - 'The Empire Strikes Back.' Kershner, nicknamed 'Slick' by his peers due to his sartorial elegance, began his career in the 1950s as a photographer and cinematographer. His work in advertising earned him recognition for his innovative techniques and aesthetic sensibilities. This background greatly influenced his approach to filmmaking, characterized by meticulous attention to detail and an eye for stunning visuals. In 1968, Kershner made his directorial debut with the psychological horror film 'Horror of Frankenstein.' His subsequent work included 'Loving,' a poignant romantic drama in 1970, and 'Up the Sandbox' in 1972, which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Director. However, Kershner is most celebrated for his contribution to the Star Wars saga. George Lucas personally selected Kershner to direct 'The Empire Strikes Back,' a decision that proved to be a masterstroke. The film's darker tone and emotional depth resonated with audiences worldwide, and it remains one of the highest-grossing films of all time. Kershner's final directorial work was the 1984 film 'Never Too Late,' before he retired from filmmaking in the late 1980s. Despite retiring, Kershner continued to be involved in various projects, including photography and teaching. He passed away on November 27, 2010, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire filmmakers today. In summary, Irvin Kershner's life and work showcase an artist who mastered multiple mediums, made significant contributions to cinema, and left an indelible mark on popular culture with 'The Empire Strikes Back.' His influence remains strong, as new generations continue to discover the magic he brought to screen.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The greatest teacher, fear."

This quote by Irvin Kershner suggests that fear can serve as a powerful instructor in life. Fear, when harnessed and faced, can teach us valuable lessons about ourselves, our limits, and the potential consequences of our actions. It pushes us to be cautious, prepared, and adaptable, ultimately helping us grow both personally and professionally. However, it's essential to remember that fear should not control us but guide us towards making informed decisions and taking measured risks.


"The best thing about a picture is that it never changes, even when the people in it do."

This quote by Irvin Kershner emphasizes the enduring nature of photographs. Unlike people who age, change, or pass away, photos preserve moments in time, offering a constant reminder of a particular scene, event, or memory. The beauty of a photograph lies in its ability to capture and retain these precious moments that can be revisited regardless of personal transformations.


"You see, but you do not observe."

This quote highlights the difference between seeing with our eyes and truly understanding or perceiving with our minds. It suggests that one can physically observe an event or object, yet fail to fully comprehend its significance, context, or deeper meaning. Observation in this sense implies a conscious, active, and discerning perspective that goes beyond mere sight.


"A movie is made three times: on paper, during shooting, and in the cutting room."

This quote by Irvin Kershner suggests that a film's creation is not complete at any single stage of its production. It starts with the scriptwriting, which sets the foundation for the story and the visualization of the movie. The second phase is during shooting, where the actors breathe life into the characters, and cinematographers capture the scenes as envisioned. However, the third and crucial phase is in the editing room, where the raw footage is assembled, the pacing is set, and the film takes its final shape, becoming what the audience experiences on screen. In essence, every element contributes equally to the movie's success, each adding a layer to the overall production.


"Directing is not just standing in front of the camera saying 'Action!' and 'Cut!'"

This quote by Irvin Kershner suggests that directing a film involves more than just giving simple commands like "Action!" or "Cut!". It implies that a director plays an active role in shaping the narrative, guiding actors, collaborating with the crew, making creative decisions, and ensuring the final product accurately reflects their vision. In essence, it's about nurturing, communicating, and influencing every aspect of the filmmaking process to bring a story to life on screen.


Film is a window to the real world but a lie that makes you believe the unbelievable.

- Irvin Kershner

World, Real World, Makes, Unbelievable

I have not given much credence to reviews of my films. Sometimes they're wrong, but it didn't matter to me.

- Irvin Kershner

Sometimes, Given, Films, Reviews

It's a matter of pride to me to get the film done fast, to get it done well. I understand the need for compromise. There is no such thing as a perfect shot, a perfect film. The purpose of film is not to make a monument to oneself.

- Irvin Kershner

Purpose, Perfect, Need, Compromise

In the last ten years of watching films I have found that some of the foreign films I saw affected me most. One American film that stands out for me for its workmanship and artistry is 'Ratatouille.' It was an astonishing effort in filmmaking.

- Irvin Kershner

American, Some, Artistry, Workmanship

After 'The Empire Strikes Back,' I got to make big films that I didn't care about, 'Never Say Never Again' and 'RoboCop 2,' and then I got too old.

- Irvin Kershner

Big, Old, Films, Empire

I love my early movies, but naturalism is an artist's early style. Now I want to deal with feelings, dreams, an acceptance of irrationality.

- Irvin Kershner

Love, Deal, Irrationality, Naturalism

There's nothing more interesting than the landscape of the human face.

- Irvin Kershner

Face, Nothing, More, Human Face

I have not been a follower of how many millions my films made or did not make.

- Irvin Kershner

How, Been, Films, Follower

I want films to haunt an audience, to give them something to remember and be able to talk about.

- Irvin Kershner

Remember, Give, Films, Haunt

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