Consider: for all the gobbledegook [film studio]…
![“Consider: for all the gobbledegook [film studio] executives spout about backstory, all that we, the audience, want to know is what happens next. That's the only thing that's going on. . . . Character is nothing other than action, and character-driven means The plot stinks, and you'd better hope…” quote by David Mamet](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/7fb/david-mamet-1178_action_consider-for-all-the-gobbledegook-film-s_1913442.jpg)
“Consider: for all the gobbledegook [film studio] executives spout about backstory, all that we, the audience, want to know is what happens next. That's the only thing that's going on. . . . Character is nothing other than action, and character-driven means The plot stinks, and you'd better hope the star is popular enough to open the movie in spite of it.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote argues that audiences care mainly about plot progression, not backstory; character is defined by actions, and a weak plot must rely on star power to succeed.
In simple terms: Audiences want forward motion; character equals action; weak plots need famous stars.
Key Takeaway
Focus on clear, engaging plot and strong actions; avoid over‑explaining backstory.
Themes
storytelling
character
plot
star power
audience expectations
Mood
critical
analytical
pragmatic
Type
advice
industry insight
When to use this quote
- Screenwriting workshops
- film pitch meetings
- movie reviews
- studio script revisions
- marketing campaigns
Key Concepts
Narrative structure
character definition
commercial viability
Questions to Reflect On
- How can a writer balance backstory with forward momentum?
- What techniques keep character development active without stalling the plot?
A Different Perspective
If a film’s plot is weak, star power may not guarantee success; quality storytelling still matters.