In Hong Kong, in our generation that started out in the…
“In Hong Kong, in our generation that started out in the 1970s, being a director wasn't a big deal. We didn't even have director's chairs. We weren't particularly well paid. The social standing of a film director wasn't that high. It was a sort of a plebeian job, a second or third grade one. And the studio heads are always practical, there's never any fawning because someone is a director. There's very little snobbery about one's position as a director. The only ones people treated differently were those that were also stars; or the directors who also owned their companies.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
In 1970s Hong Kong, film directors held modest status and pay; only star‑directors or owner‑directors earned distinction.
In simple terms: Directors were low‑status; fame or ownership raised their standing.
Key Takeaway
Elevate the craft; recognize directors’ contributions.
Themes
film industry
status
career
recognition
culture
Mood
reflective
informative
Type
historical
industry
When to use this quote
- film studies
- career mentorship
- industry advocacy
- cultural history
Key Concepts
hierarchy
professional esteem
industry evolution
Questions to Reflect On
- How can directors gain respect today?
- What role does ownership play in status?
A Different Perspective
Changing perceptions may be slow.