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The worst disgrace that can befall a producer is an unkind…

“The worst disgrace that can befall a producer is an unkind notice from a New York reviewer. When this happens, the producer becomes a pariah in Hollywood. He is shunned by his friends, thrown into bankruptcy, and like a Japanese electing hara-kiri, he commits suttee.” quote by S. J. Perelman
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“The worst disgrace that can befall a producer is an unkind notice from a New York reviewer. When this happens, the producer becomes a pariah in Hollywood. He is shunned by his friends, thrown into bankruptcy, and like a Japanese electing hara-kiri, he commits suttee.”

S. J. Perelman

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A harsh New York review can ruin a producer, leading to social exile and financial ruin, akin to a ritual suicide.

In simple terms: A bad review can destroy a producer's career.

Key Takeaway

Beware the power of critical opinion.

Themes

art criticism career risk

Mood

satirical cautionary

Type

analytical historical

When to use this quote

  • theatre
  • film
  • publishing
  • creative industries

Key Concepts

social ostracism financial collapse

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can creators protect themselves from destructive criticism?
  • What mechanisms can mitigate the influence of a single reviewer?
A Different Perspective

Critical reviews can have disproportionate impact on livelihoods.

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