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Antidote Quote by Howard Hawks

“I find that when you open on a group of people sitting down and talking, the scene sits down with them. The best antidote for that is an entrance. Begin the scene with someone entering, and somehow it’s more interesting.” quote by Howard Hawks
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“I find that when you open on a group of people sitting down and talking, the scene sits down with them. The best antidote for that is an entrance. Begin the scene with someone entering, and somehow it’s more interesting.”

Howard Hawks

About This Quote

Source Film: His Girl Friday, 1940 (screenwriting anecdote)

Starting a scene with an entrance creates immediate interest and dynamic interaction.

In simple terms: Begin scenes with a character entering.

Key Takeaway

Use entrances to spark engagement.

Themes

storytelling drama engagement

Mood

creative analytical

Type

practical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • theatre
  • film directing
  • writing workshops
  • improvisation

Key Concepts

Narrative structure character dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can entrances enhance tension?
  • When might a static scene work better?
A Different Perspective

Relying solely on entrances may neglect character depth.

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