Felt Quote by Sam Mendes
“There have been screenwriters who I'm sure would gladly kill me, because I've been very fast and loose with their work, because I felt like it wasn't up to my high standards. I would push and pull it on set, and make changes all the time. But then when you're working with an original screenplay, my theater instincts kick in, and I suddenly become very keeper-of-the-words.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Director interview, 2015
He admits to aggressively altering scripts when he feels they fall short, but respects original screenplays, preserving their integrity.
In simple terms: He edits heavily unless the script is original, then he protects it.
Key Takeaway
Balance critique with respect for original work.
Themes
cre
respect
collaboration
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
professional
artistic
When to use this quote
- Film production
- script editing
- directorial decisions
Key Concepts
Creative control
authorial intent
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you decide when to intervene?
- What risks arise from over‑editing?
A Different Perspective
Original works deserve less alteration.
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