This write-up explores the idea that films should be as concise as possible. The emphasis is on trimming down narratives to their most efficient form rather than extending them with unnecessary sequences. The discussion centers on a renowned director known for his Oscar-winning work, who feels that today’s films often overindulge in lengthy scenes and superfluous action. His viewpoint contrasts with the elegance of older movies, which focused solely on effective storytelling without excess embellishment.
The director firmly believes that filmmakers should continually reduce the runtime of their productions. He advocates for a creative approach where each scene is critically evaluated and unnecessary content is removed repeatedly until only the essential narrative remains. This method, he argues, leads to films that are literate, economical, and engaging.
Presented below are several essential points brought into focus in his message:
- Value narrative economy and avoid overlong sequences.
- Emphasize story clarity over extended action scenes.
- Strive for efficiency in every element of film production.
Reflecting on these views, the director notes that this rigorous approach has influenced the length of his recent films, which now run for a duration significantly shorter than many contemporary movies. This move is a deliberate contrast to the current trend of extended cinematic experiences, where films often stretch on for several hours without substantial justification.
This perspective invites consideration about whether films would benefit from a more focused and succinct storytelling approach. It raises the question for audiences and fellow creators alike: Should the art of filmmaking return to its roots by prioritizing brevity and depth over an abundance of unnecessary content?