For any director with a little lucidity, masterpieces are films that come to you by accident. — Sidney Lumet Copy Share Image
While the goal of all movies is to entertain, the kind of film in which I believe goes one step further. It compels the spectator to examine one facet or another of his own conscience. It stimulates thought and sets… — Sidney Lumet Copy Share Image
There are no minor decisions in movie making. Each decision will either contribute to a good piece of work or bring the whole movie… — Sidney Lumet Copy Share Image
In drama, the characters should determine the story. In melodrama, the story determines the characters. — Sidney Lumet Copy Share Image
There's a powerful magic about being a writer that I still marvel at. — Sidney Lumet Copy Share Image
There are no personal revelations other than feelings arising from the work itself — Sidney Lumet Copy Share Image
The varying physical characteristics of the actors may also necessitate changes. Sean Connery is six feet four. Dustin Hoffman isn't. — Sidney Lumet Copy Share Image
Suffice to say that the theme (the WHAT of the movie) is going to determine the style (the HOW of the movie). — Sidney Lumet Copy Share Image
If I don't have a script I adore, I do one I like. If I don't have one I like, I do one that… — Sidney Lumet Copy Share Image
Don't let the difficulty of actually achieving a shot make you think that the shot is good. — Sidney Lumet Copy Share Image
Over-length is one of the things that most often results in the destruction of the movie in the cutting room. — Sidney Lumet Copy Share Image
