Meaning: This quote by Vincente Minnelli, a renowned director, offers insight into the subjective nature of storytelling and the role of interpretation in the creative process. Minnelli's words suggest that, as a creator, his primary concern is whether he personally enjoys and connects with a story, rather than adhering strictly to its literal content. He emphasizes the importance of identifying something in the story that goes beyond its surface, implying that his appreciation for a narrative is rooted in the depth and complexity he perceives within it.

Minnelli's statement reflects a sentiment shared by many artists and creators, underscoring the idea that the impact of a story transcends its mere plot or events. Instead, it resides in the nuances, themes, and emotions that the audience can discern and relate to. This approach to storytelling aligns with the notion that art is inherently open to interpretation and that the audience's personal experiences and perspectives play a significant role in shaping their understanding and appreciation of a narrative.

In essence, Minnelli's viewpoint challenges the notion of a definitive, singular interpretation of a story, suggesting that the richness of a narrative lies in the diverse ways it can be perceived and understood. By expressing his preference for stories that contain elements that "aren't completely there," he alludes to the allure of narratives that invite the audience to engage their imagination and derive their own meaning from the material presented.

From a directorial standpoint, Minnelli's approach to storytelling speaks to the creative freedom and artistic license that filmmakers often seek. By prioritizing his personal connection and perception of a story, Minnelli emphasizes the importance of infusing one's own perspective and creativity into the storytelling process. This sentiment underscores the idea that a director's interpretation and vision are integral to the final presentation of a narrative, shaping its emotional resonance and thematic depth.

Furthermore, Minnelli's words shed light on the role of intuition and emotional resonance in the creative process. By emphasizing the importance of "liking" a story and perceiving something beyond its literal content, he highlights the significance of emotional and instinctual responses to artistic material. This aligns with the idea that storytelling is a deeply personal and emotive endeavor, both for the creator and the audience, and that genuine connection and engagement with a narrative often stem from a place of emotional authenticity.

In the context of filmmaking, Minnelli's approach to storytelling offers valuable insights for aspiring directors and screenwriters. It encourages them to prioritize the emotional and thematic resonance of a story, seeking to imbue it with layers of meaning and depth that transcend its surface-level plot. This perspective underscores the importance of crafting narratives that resonate on an emotional and psychological level, inviting the audience to actively engage with the material and derive their own interpretations and insights.

In conclusion, Vincente Minnelli's quote encapsulates a profound perspective on storytelling, emphasizing the subjective and interpretive nature of narratives. His words underscore the significance of personal connection, emotional resonance, and creative interpretation in the appreciation and creation of stories. By encouraging audiences and creators alike to seek depth and meaning beyond the surface of a narrative, Minnelli's viewpoint enriches our understanding of the multifaceted nature of storytelling and the enduring power of interpretation in the world of art and cinema.