Meaning:
The quote "I don't see scary films. I certainly wouldn't go see my films." by Brian De Palma, a renowned film director, offers insight into the personal viewing preferences of the director and raises interesting questions about the relationship between filmmakers and their own creations. De Palma's statement sheds light on the complex dynamic that exists between an artist and their work, as well as the psychological and emotional factors that may influence a creator's relationship with their own creations.
Brian De Palma is known for his work in the thriller and suspense genres, with films such as "Carrie," "Dressed to Kill," and "Scarface" being among his most notable works. Despite his reputation for creating intense and gripping narratives, De Palma's assertion that he does not watch scary films, including his own, is intriguing. It suggests that even a director who specializes in creating frightening and suspenseful content may not necessarily enjoy consuming similar media as a viewer.
De Palma's statement also raises the question of why a filmmaker might choose not to watch their own work. While it's common for artists in various fields to be critical of their own creations, the aversion to viewing one's own films, particularly within the horror genre, hints at the potential psychological impact of creating such content. The act of immersing oneself in the terrifying worlds and scenarios that one has brought to life on screen could be emotionally taxing and unsettling, even for the creator.
Furthermore, De Palma's quote may reflect the notion that the experience of making a film is fundamentally different from that of watching it as an audience member. As a director, De Palma is intimately involved in every aspect of the filmmaking process, from conceptualization and scriptwriting to casting, shooting, and editing. This deep involvement in the creation of the film may significantly alter his perspective on the final product, making it difficult for him to engage with it as a detached viewer.
In addition to personal preferences and the emotional toll of creating scary content, De Palma's quote highlights the complexity of the relationship between filmmakers and their own art. The act of creating a film involves a myriad of choices, compromises, and challenges, and the final product may not always align with the director's original vision. As a result, some filmmakers may choose to distance themselves from their finished works, particularly if they feel that the end result deviates from their artistic intentions.
Despite De Palma's reluctance to watch his own films, his statement does not diminish the impact of his contributions to the horror and suspense genres. His body of work continues to be celebrated for its innovative storytelling, visual style, and ability to captivate audiences. Ultimately, De Palma's quote offers a fascinating glimpse into the personal and professional considerations that shape a filmmaker's relationship with their own creations, and it invites viewers to contemplate the complexities of artistic expression and personal taste.