Cinema Quote by Rainer Werner Fassbinder
“Every decent director has only one subject, and finally only makes the same film over and over again. My subject is the exploitability of feelings, whoever might be the one exploiting them. It never ends. It's a permanent theme. Whether the state exploits patriotism, or whether in a couple relationship, one partner destroys the other.”
About This Quote
Source Film: Interview, 1978, Rainer Werner Fassbinder
The quote observes that a creator’s recurring focus reveals a deep, unending concern—in this case, how emotions are manipulated by power structures or personal relationships.
In simple terms: A director repeatedly explores how feelings are exploited.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and question emotional manipulation.
Themes
power
relationships
manipulation
artistic focus
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political campaigns
- romantic partnerships
- media narratives
- workplace dynamics
Key Concepts
exploitation
psychology
political propaganda
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you see emotional exploitation in your life?
- Can awareness change the dynamic?
A Different Perspective
The view may overgeneralize artistic intent, ignoring varied themes.
![“Women think in [Douglas] Sirk’s films. Something which has never struck me with other directors. None of them. Usually women are always reacting, doing what women are supposed to do, but in Sirk they think. It’s something that has to be seen. It’s great to see women think. It gives one hope…” quote by Rainer Werner Fassbinder](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/0e6/rainer-werner-fassbinder-25537_directors_women-think-in-douglas-sirk-s-films-some_607394.jpg)
