Vincent Canby Quotes

Powerful Vincent Canby for Daily Growth

About Vincent Canby

Vincent Canby (February 21, 1926 – September 3, 1996) was an esteemed American film and theater critic known for his insightful reviews and analysis, influencing the cultural landscape of both mediums during his illustrious career. Born in New York City, Canby graduated from Brown University with a degree in English in 1948. After serving in the U.S. Army, he embarked on his journalistic journey, working for various publications like The Boston Herald-Traveler, The Saturday Review, and The New Republic before joining The New York Times in 1969. At The New York Times, Canby's perceptive reviews shaped public opinion regarding films and theater productions. His keen insights into the human condition, artistry, and societal implications of artistic works set him apart as a critic of exceptional sensitivity and nuance. Some of his notable works include reviews of "The Godfather," "Chinatown," and "Annie Hall." He was also instrumental in recognizing the importance of contemporary theater movements like Off-Off Broadway and the early works of Samuel Beckett. Canby's approach to criticism was rooted in empathy, understanding the artistic intentions of creators while also acknowledging their flaws. His reviews were not merely evaluations but conversations with readers, inviting them to engage critically with art. In 1978, he published "Vincent Canby on Movies: The Essential Criticisms," showcasing his remarkable ability to analyze and appreciate the complexities of film as an art form. Tragically, Vincent Canby passed away in 1996 due to complications from a stroke. His impact on American arts criticism remains indelible, influencing generations of critics and continuing to shape our understanding of cinema and theater today.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Art should be an experience which leaves you with a feeling of emotional shock."

This quote by Vincent Canby emphasizes the transformative power of art. He suggests that good art should evoke strong, profound emotions within the viewer, creating a memorable impact that lingers long after the experience itself. By leaving one "with a feeling of emotional shock," he implies that exceptional art should be able to stir deep emotions and challenge our perspectives or assumptions, offering us new ways to see the world and ourselves. In essence, it's about art that resonates powerfully and leaves an indelible impression on our lives.


"The only thing that really matters about a film is its effect on the spectator."

Vincent Canby's quote emphasizes the subjective nature of cinema. According to him, what truly matters in a film is not its technical aspects or the director's intentions, but rather its impact on the audience. In other words, a movie's success is measured by how it affects the viewer emotionally, intellectually, or otherwise. This perspective underscores the unique, individual experiences that each person brings to the act of watching a film and encourages us to appreciate films not just for their artistic merit, but also for their ability to connect with us on a personal level.


"Drama is about people who have conflicts; comedy is about people who don't."

This quote by Vincent Canby succinctly captures the fundamental difference between drama and comedy in storytelling. Drama presents characters engaged in conflict, struggles, or dilemmas which they must navigate and resolve, often involving heightened emotions and high stakes. In contrast, comedy revolves around characters who are typically free from significant conflict, focusing instead on light-hearted situations and humor. The essence of comedy lies in the depiction of ordinary people dealing with everyday problems in an amusing or entertaining manner.


"Cinema should make us dream, take us to places we've never been and transport us to worlds we never thought of."

Vincent Canby's quote emphasizes the transformative power of cinema. He suggests that films should stimulate our imaginations, offering escapist journeys to new and unconventional destinations, thereby broadening our mental horizons. In essence, Canby proposes that movies serve not just as passive entertainment but as an active means of exploring the vastness of human creativity and experience.


"The best movies always seem to involve the audience in an intimate way, whether they are comedies, dramas or action films."

This quote by Vincent Canby suggests that great movies have a unique ability to draw their audience into the narrative on a personal level, regardless of the genre - be it comedy, drama, or action. The "intimacy" he refers to is not just emotional engagement but also the sense of immersion and active participation by viewers, which allows them to feel involved in the story unfolding on screen. This level of involvement is key to creating a memorable cinematic experience.


His acting remains forever fixed in a time that never dates.

- Vincent Canby

Never, His, Remains, Dates

Hack fiction exploits curiosity without really satisfying it or making connections between it and anything else in the world.

- Vincent Canby

Curiosity, Fiction, Making, Satisfying

It is guaranteed to put all teeth on edge, including George Washington's, wherever they might be.

- Vincent Canby

Edge, Might, Including, Wherever

We are drawn to our television sets each April the way we are drawn to the scene of an accident.

- Vincent Canby

Television, Sets, Drawn, Accident

Good fiction reveals feeling, refines events, locates importance and, though its methods are as mysterious as they are varied, intensifies the experience of living our own lives.

- Vincent Canby

Living, Though, Lives, Varied

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