Meaning:
The quote by musician Glenn Danzig reflects his sentiment about the changing landscape of Hollywood and the film industry. In essence, he is expressing a nostalgic longing for the old back lots in Hollywood that used to feature streets resembling those found in the French Quarter. This quote encapsulates a wistful reflection on the evolution of Hollywood's physical environment and its impact on the creative process.
Historically, back lots in Hollywood were essential components of film production, providing versatile settings for a wide range of scenes. These areas often featured elaborate sets and meticulously designed streetscapes, allowing filmmakers to transport audiences to diverse locales without leaving the studio lot. The reference to the French Quarter specifically conjures images of narrow, atmospheric streets synonymous with the iconic neighborhood in New Orleans. These streets have a distinct charm and character that can add depth and authenticity to on-screen storytelling.
Danzig's remark about the disappearance of such back lots in Hollywood suggests a broader shift in the film industry. As technology has advanced and location shooting has become more prevalent, the demand for traditional back lots has diminished. Additionally, the economic considerations of maintaining and operating expansive studio back lots have led many studios to repurpose or sell these areas, further contributing to their decline.
In a creative context, the absence of back lots featuring streets reminiscent of the French Quarter represents a loss of a specific visual and atmospheric resource for filmmakers. These unique settings provided a canvas for storytelling and a backdrop for narratives set in diverse urban environments. The absence of such environments may limit the creative options available to filmmakers and impact the visual richness of their work.
Furthermore, Danzig's quote reflects a broader cultural and historical perspective on the changing face of Hollywood. The evolution of the entertainment industry, urban development, and the shifting priorities of film production have all contributed to the transformation of the physical spaces associated with Hollywood filmmaking. As a result, the nostalgic yearning expressed in the quote resonates with those who appreciate the heritage and aesthetics of classic Hollywood cinema.
In essence, the quote by Glenn Danzig captures a sense of longing for the bygone era of Hollywood back lots with streets resembling the French Quarter. It serves as a reminder of the evolving nature of the film industry and the impact of these changes on the creative process. While the disappearance of such settings may evoke nostalgia, it also prompts reflection on the dynamic nature of filmmaking and the need to adapt to new opportunities and challenges in the pursuit of storytelling excellence.