Meaning: This quote by John Boorman, a renowned director, captures the essence of his approach to storytelling and character development. Boorman is known for his unique and imaginative filmmaking style, and his words offer valuable insights into his creative process. When he says, "I look at the story, I look at the idea and just try to think of it in terms of that whole body of myth and see where the characters fit in and what they ought to be doing-all those archetypes are there to play with," he is discussing the significance of mythology and archetypes in shaping his narratives and characters.

Boorman's emphasis on "that whole body of myth" indicates his deep appreciation for the universal themes and motifs found in mythological stories from various cultures. Mythology has a timeless and universal quality, and Boorman recognizes its power to provide a rich framework for storytelling. By drawing inspiration from myth, he taps into a wellspring of primal and resonant themes that have captivated audiences for centuries.

The idea of "seeing where the characters fit in" suggests that Boorman approaches character development by considering their roles within the larger mythic context. He is interested in how his characters embody archetypal traits and how they navigate the mythic landscape he constructs. By doing so, he infuses his characters with depth and complexity, grounding them in the timeless patterns of human experience that mythology reflects.

Boorman's mention of "all those archetypes" highlights his awareness of the fundamental character types and motifs that recur throughout mythology. These archetypes represent fundamental human qualities and experiences, such as the hero, the mentor, the trickster, and the quest. By engaging with these archetypes, Boorman is able to create characters that resonate with audiences on a profound level, as they are connected to enduring aspects of the human psyche and collective consciousness.

Furthermore, when Boorman says, "all those archetypes are there to play with," he reveals his playful and exploratory approach to storytelling. Rather than rigidly adhering to traditional narrative structures, he sees mythology and archetypes as a playground for creativity and innovation. This perspective allows him to subvert expectations, recontextualize familiar themes, and breathe new life into timeless stories.

In summary, John Boorman's quote encapsulates his reverence for mythology, his deliberate approach to character development, and his willingness to engage with archetypal themes in a playful and inventive manner. His work demonstrates how drawing from the well of myth can enrich storytelling, infuse characters with depth and resonance, and create narratives that resonate with audiences across time and culture. By embracing the timeless power of myth and archetypes, Boorman has carved out a distinctive place in the realm of cinematic storytelling, leaving a lasting impact on the art of filmmaking.