When I met Akira Kurosawa in Japan, one question he asked…
“When I met Akira Kurosawa in Japan, one question he asked me was, "How did you actually make the children act the way they do? I do have children in my films but I find that I reduce and reduce their presence until I have to get rid of them because there's no way that I can direct them." My own thought is that one is very grand, like an emperor on a horse, and it's very hard for a child to relate to that. In order to be able to cooperate with a child, you have to come down to below their level in order to communicate with them.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A director must meet children at their own level, simplifying authority to foster genuine performance.
In simple terms: Treat kids as equals, not distant authority.
Key Takeaway
Adapt your approach to match the child's perspective.
Themes
communication
creativity
directing
childhood
collaboration
Mood
reflective
inquisitive
empathetic
Type
instructional
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- film set with child actors
- educational workshops
- family counseling
- team building
- parenting
Key Concepts
Power dynamics
authenticity
empathy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance authority and empathy when guiding young collaborators?
- What strategies help maintain authenticity without compromising artistic vision?
A Different Perspective
Children may resist if they sense condescension, limiting authentic expression.