Walter Hill Quotes

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Violence is the only answer when dialogue is not possible."

This quote by Walter Hill suggests that in situations where peaceful dialogue or negotiation is unattainable, force or violence may be used as a last resort. However, it's important to note that this perspective emphasizes the breakdown of communication rather than advocating for the use of violence as a first choice. It underscores the idea that sometimes, extreme circumstances can lead to drastic measures. Yet, it's crucial to remember that such scenarios are exceptions, and peaceful resolutions should always be pursued wherever possible.

"I'm a director. I don't make movies to be nice; I make them to scare people."

Walter Hill, in this quote, expresses his intent as a filmmaker. He does not aim to create films that are merely pleasant or comforting, but rather, he seeks to evoke a strong emotional response from the audience - fear. This desire to scare people is not about causing distress, but rather, it's an artistic choice to capture and engage their attention deeply. By creating an atmosphere of tension and suspense, Hill hopes to provoke thought, stir emotions, and leave a lasting impact on his viewers.

"The most important thing about action movies, as opposed to regular dramas or comedies, is that they have to move forward in a particular way."

This quote by Walter Hill emphasizes the unique structure and pacing of action films compared to other genres like dramas or comedies. Action movies are characterized by their propensity for movement and advancement, both in terms of plot development and visual spectacle. They're designed to keep audiences engaged with a steady progression of events, often filled with suspense, conflict, and high-energy sequences. The focus is on action rather than introspection or dialogue, making the narrative flow more dynamically forward to maintain viewer interest.

"There are films that are made with an eye toward history and there are films that are made for the sake of entertainment. I like to make films that are entertaining."

This quote from Walter Hill highlights the dual nature of filmmaking, where some movies are created with a primary focus on historical accuracy, while others prioritize entertainment value. He personally prefers making films that are entertaining, emphasizing the importance of providing enjoyment for audiences over strictly adhering to historical events or facts. This perspective suggests that a balance between authenticity and audience enjoyment can lead to impactful and successful cinematic experiences.

"The more you know about something, the less magical it becomes. It's important to maintain a sense of wonder in life, and sometimes that means not knowing everything."

This quote suggests that as we acquire knowledge about a subject or phenomenon, its mysteriousness tends to dissipate. The author, Walter Hill, is advocating for preserving a sense of wonder and mystery in our lives by embracing the unknown and accepting that there are aspects of the world which may remain unexplained or undiscovered. This perspective encourages us to maintain an open mind and appreciate the beauty and intrigue of life's mysteries, rather than striving solely for complete understanding and comprehension.