Meaning: This quote by George Romero, the renowned director known for pioneering the zombie film genre with his 1968 classic "Night of the Living Dead," provides an insightful perspective into the complex relationship filmmakers have with their own work. Romero's reflection highlights the multifaceted nature of the filmmaking process and the emotional journey that creators often go through in relation to their own films. In this analysis, we will explore the various layers of meaning encapsulated in Romero's quote, shedding light on the intricate dynamics between filmmakers, their collaborators, and the films they produce.

Romero's statement begins with the acknowledgment of the multitude of factors that come into play when a filmmaker reflects on their own work. This recognition underscores the intricate web of influences and experiences that shape the creation of a film. From the initial conceptualization to the execution and post-production phases, a film is the result of a collaborative effort involving numerous individuals, each contributing their expertise and creative input. Romero's emphasis on "the people you worked on it with" serves as a reminder of the collective nature of filmmaking, where the contributions of cast and crew members, from actors and cinematographers to editors and sound designers, significantly impact the final product.

Furthermore, Romero's assertion that filmmakers "somehow forget the movie" amidst their contemplation of the people involved in its creation sheds light on the intense personal and interpersonal connections that filmmakers form during the production process. The immersive and demanding nature of filmmaking often fosters deep bonds and experiences among the individuals involved, leading to a focus on the human aspect of the endeavor rather than solely on the end result. This sentiment resonates with the idea that the journey of making a film can be just as impactful and meaningful as the film itself, if not more so, for those involved.

The subsequent statement in Romero's quote delves into the complex emotional relationship that filmmakers have with their own creations. He asserts that it can be challenging to forgive a movie for its perceived flaws, indicating a sense of personal investment and attachment that lingers long after the completion of the film. This aspect of Romero's reflection taps into the vulnerability and self-criticism that many artists, including filmmakers, experience in relation to their work. The creative process often involves a deep emotional investment, and the final product becomes intertwined with the creator's identity and aspirations, making it difficult to separate oneself from its perceived shortcomings.

Romero's assertion that "It takes a few years to look at it with any objectivity and forgive its flaws" underscores the temporal aspect of the filmmaker's relationship with their work. The passage of time allows for a shift in perspective, enabling the filmmaker to attain a more objective view of the film and to reconcile with its imperfections. This temporal distance provides the filmmaker with the opportunity to revisit the work with a fresh outlook, free from the intense emotions and pressures that accompanied its creation. It allows for a more balanced assessment of the film's strengths and weaknesses, leading to a process of self-forgiveness and acceptance of the film as a flawed yet valuable expression of creativity.

In conclusion, George Romero's quote encapsulates the intricate and multifaceted nature of the filmmaker's relationship with their own work. It illuminates the collaborative and deeply personal aspects of filmmaking, shedding light on the emotional journey that filmmakers undertake in coming to terms with their creations. Romero's reflection serves as a poignant reminder of the complex dynamics at play in the creative process and the evolving relationship that creators have with their films over time.