Meaning: The quote by Manuel Puig, an Argentine author known for his works in the realm of contemporary literature, offers a critical perspective on modern American cinema. Puig's commentary suggests that he finds contemporary American cinema to be superficial, with a primary focus on capturing and depicting reality without delving deeper into its underlying meanings or implications. In essence, Puig implies that modern American cinema often fails to fulfill its intention of truly understanding and conveying the complexities of the reality it seeks to portray.

Puig's critique of modern American cinema as superficial may be interpreted in various ways. One possible interpretation is that he perceives contemporary American films as being overly concerned with the surface-level representation of reality, without engaging with the deeper layers of meaning, context, or social commentary that underlie the subjects they depict. In this sense, Puig seems to suggest that these films prioritize the visual and narrative aspects of reality over its deeper complexities, resulting in a portrayal that is, in his view, lacking in depth and insight.

Furthermore, when Puig mentions "the intention is to understand a certain reality," he may be alluding to the fact that many films aim to capture and convey specific aspects of human experience, social issues, or historical events. However, his assertion that "the result is nothing but a photographing of that reality" implies a sense of disappointment with the outcomes of these endeavors. Puig seems to suggest that despite the initial intention to delve into the complexities of reality, the end products— the films themselves—fall short of achieving a deeper understanding or meaningful portrayal of the subjects at hand.

It's important to consider that Puig's perspective may be influenced by his own background and experiences as an author. As a writer known for his exploration of complex human emotions, societal dynamics, and political themes, Puig may have a heightened sensitivity to the nuances and intricacies of storytelling and artistic representation. From this vantage point, he may hold modern American cinema to a high standard, expecting it to offer more profound and thought-provoking insights into the realities it seeks to depict.

In addition, Puig's critique may also be seen in the context of broader discussions about the commercialization and standardization of contemporary cinema. The dominance of Hollywood and the influence of commercial considerations on filmmaking practices have been subjects of debate within the film industry and among critics. Puig's critique could be viewed as a reflection of concerns about the potential homogenization and simplification of storytelling in mainstream American cinema, where market-driven imperatives may sometimes overshadow artistic and intellectual ambitions.

In conclusion, Manuel Puig's quote provides a thought-provoking critique of modern American cinema, emphasizing the perceived superficiality and shortcomings in its portrayal of reality. His commentary invites reflection on the depth, authenticity, and societal significance of contemporary films, as well as the broader dynamics shaping the landscape of cinematic storytelling.