We’re Not Borg: P1

I recently had a discussion with a director on the independent scene. I won’t mention names so as not to destroy his credibility, but I was appalled by his complete disregard with what is perhaps the most important aspect of film making; EMOTION!

 

Long story short, his argument was that all a director needs is technical skill. That he needn’t be bogged down or concerned how a scene, series of scenes or movie comes across on an emotional level. He enthusiastically stated that the prime thing is making a visually aesthetic piece. I can appreciate great cinematography as much as the next person. And a masterfully filmed chase scene or expertly choreographed fight is attention grabbing.

 

However, we’re not Borg, we’re human.

 

 

A film maker must make an emotional connection with the audience. He’s not thinking: “How can I make the audience appreciate the craftsmanship of this work?” He wants us to forget we’re at the movies and immerse ourselves in the story. As a viewer, our focus should be completely on the story. When we’re concentrating on the technical stuff during a movie, we’re ignoring the idea behind going in the first place.

 

However, remember this; anyone can dip a brush into some paint, swath it across a canvas and call it art. More is involved. Put some feeling into it. Have heart and give it some heart. It becomes memorable if it has been etched into your psyche, if it touched or moved you in some profound way. Even Aliens touched us emotionally. The emotion was fear, but it’s an emotion nonetheless. Let it prove to be a fire coursing through your veins.

 

And remember, an unemotional creation will evoke an uninspired response.