"Rain is also very difficult to film, particularly in Ireland because it's quite fine, so fine that the Irish don't even acknowledge that it exists."
About Alan Parker
Alan Parker — Life and Legacy
Alan Parker was a renowned British filmmaker whose work left a significant mark on the cinematic landscape. Known for films like 'Midnight Express' and 'The Commitments,' Parker's storytelling often delved into the depths of human emotion and the struggles of his characters. His quote, 'The only way to make a film is to make it yourself,' reflects his belief in the necessity of personal vision in art, emphasizing that true creativity stems from individual expression rather than conforming to industry standards. Parker's films frequently tackled themes of conflict and resilience, showcasing characters who confront their inner demons and societal challenges. His approach to storytelling was not just about entertainment; it was a means to connect with audiences on a profound emotional level. For instance, his work in 'Midnight Express' highlights the harrowing journey of an American in a Turkish prison, illustrating the harsh realities of life and the human spirit's capacity to endure. Today, Parker's quotes and films continue to resonate, reminding us of the importance of authenticity and the courage to embrace failure in the creative process. His legacy lies in his ability to challenge norms and provoke thought, making his insights invaluable to both filmmakers and audiences alike.
Quote collection
Alan Parker quotes
19 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.
"I always argued against the auteur theory; films are a collaborative art form. I've had some fantastically good people help me make the movies."
"A Great Movie Evolves when Everybody Has the Same Vision in Their Heads."
"Period recreation is very difficult unless you make a black and white movie."
"Personally I am very much against the death penalty for several reasons."
"Most directors have little lists in their heads of people they really want to work with."
"Well, if you ask any filmmaker how they got into it, everyone came a different route. Ive never actually watched another director work."
"Have a go. Anybody can do it."
"Making a film is so hard that if you don't have your main actors going along with the ride with the rest of the crew it can make your life very difficult."
"The films that I do tend to polarise people's views."
"I'm always afraid someone's going to tap me on the shoulder one day and say, 'Back to North London'."
"It doesn't matter what the technology is - no one will watch a Peter Greenaway film anyway."
"If you'd been where I'd been... if you'd seen the things I'd seen!... you... you'd be me... Or someone following me around."
"I'm a pluralist. I've always argued that as many different films as possible should be made."
"I've always been completely autocratic. I've never learned to be diplomatic or democratic."
"A lot of directors prefer the solitude of the editing process, but I revel in the craziness of what a film set is."
"I turn on the TV sometimes, start watching something and think: 'This seems quite good, a bit familiar.' Then I realise … It's one of my movies. It's a pretty odd feeling."
"I was once described by one of my critics as an aesthetic fascist."
"Film-making is a physically hard job."