Meaning: This quote by Garry Marshall, a renowned actor, director, and producer, sheds light on his approach to the creative process, particularly the editing phase of a project. Marshall's words convey a sense of humility and openness to collaboration, setting him apart from the stereotypical image of a domineering and egotistical artist. By stating that he is not from the school of "Hello, I'm a genius, so everybody shut up," Marshall emphasizes the importance of humility and a willingness to listen and learn from others during the editing process.

Marshall's approach to editing is characterized by a collaborative and audience-centered mindset. He describes himself as being from the school of "Let's play it once in front of an audience, and then I'll tell you where it is going." This approach reflects an understanding of the value of feedback and the insight that can be gained from observing how an audience responds to a piece of work. Rather than relying solely on his own instincts and perceptions, Marshall is open to the idea of using audience reactions as a guide for shaping and refining the final product.

The quote also implies that Marshall's editing process is not rigid or predetermined. He does not approach the task with a fixed, unwavering vision of the end result. Instead, he seems to be open to the idea that the editing process is a dynamic and evolving journey, one that may be influenced by the input and reactions of others. This flexibility and adaptability in the face of feedback and new insights is a hallmark of a collaborative and audience-centered approach to editing.

In essence, Marshall's quote encapsulates a refreshing perspective on the creative process, one that emphasizes humility, openness to collaboration, and a willingness to be guided by the reactions and feedback of an audience. It challenges the notion of the solitary, all-knowing artist and instead celebrates the power of collective input and the value of engaging with an audience in the creative journey.

Garry Marshall's career spanned several decades and encompassed a wide range of successful projects in film, television, and theater. He was known for his ability to connect with audiences through his work, and his collaborative and audience-centered approach to editing may have played a significant role in his ability to create content that resonated with viewers.

Furthermore, Marshall's approach to editing aligns with a broader trend in the creative industries towards a more inclusive and audience-focused approach. In an era where audience engagement and feedback are increasingly valued, Marshall's emphasis on playing a piece in front of an audience and using their reactions as a guide reflects a forward-thinking and audience-centered mindset.

Overall, Garry Marshall's quote offers a valuable perspective on the editing process, emphasizing the importance of humility, collaboration, and audience engagement. His approach serves as a reminder that the creative process is not a solitary endeavor but rather a collaborative and dynamic journey that can be enriched by the input and reactions of others.