Cinema Quote by Michael Ondaatje
“If you look at Japanese film, it is made up of collage or bricolage, it is made up of lists, and suddenly when you stand back from the lists you begin to see the pattern of a life.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Art of Film, Michael Ondaatje, 2010
Film narratives are constructed from fragmented elements that reveal a larger life pattern when viewed holistically.
In simple terms: Films are collages that show life's pattern when you step back.
Observe details, then step back to see the whole.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- film analysis
- creative writing
- teaching literature
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does recognizing patterns change your appreciation of art?
- What details do you miss when focusing on the big picture?
May overlook individual significance in favor of the whole.