Meaning: The quote, "It's an embarrassment of riches because you have directors who don't better. You end up with so much stuff going on the screen that you don't know where to look, and that's what I consider self-indulgent," by John Dykstra, touches upon the concept of visual overload and self-indulgence in filmmaking. John Dykstra is a renowned visual effects artist and pioneer in the field, having worked on some of the most iconic films in history, including "Star Wars" and "Spider-Man." His insights into the world of filmmaking and visual effects offer a unique perspective on the balance between creativity and excess.

In this quote, Dykstra seems to be expressing his concern about the trend in modern filmmaking where directors, in their pursuit of creating visually stunning and elaborate scenes, may end up overwhelming the audience with an excessive amount of visual elements. He suggests that when there is an overabundance of visual effects or other elements on the screen, it can be challenging for the audience to focus and fully appreciate the intended impact of the visuals. This sentiment highlights the potential downside of an overly extravagant approach to filmmaking.

Dykstra's reference to an "embarrassment of riches" implies that there is an excess of visual elements or directorial decisions that can be considered unnecessary or overly indulgent. The term "riches" typically conveys a sense of abundance and luxury, but in this context, it suggests an overwhelming surplus that may detract from the overall cinematic experience. Dykstra's critique of directors who "don't better" suggests that some filmmakers may prioritize quantity over quality, leading to an over-saturation of visual content that may not necessarily enhance the storytelling or artistic value of the film.

Furthermore, Dykstra's mention of not knowing "where to look" underscores the potential confusion and disorientation that can arise when a film is visually overloaded. This can detract from the audience's ability to fully engage with the narrative and emotional aspects of the story, as their attention is constantly being pulled in multiple directions. In essence, Dykstra is cautioning against the self-indulgent tendencies of filmmakers who prioritize spectacle over coherence and meaningful visual storytelling.

As a scientist and visual effects expert, Dykstra's perspective on the balance between artistic expression and technical prowess carries significant weight. His experience in pushing the boundaries of visual effects while maintaining a focus on storytelling and audience engagement gives credence to his observations about the potential pitfalls of excessive visual indulgence in filmmaking.

In conclusion, John Dykstra's quote serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the challenges and potential drawbacks of visual overload and self-indulgence in modern filmmaking. By drawing attention to the need for balance and restraint in the use of visual elements, Dykstra offers valuable insights that can inform and inspire filmmakers to prioritize quality and coherence in their pursuit of creating visually compelling and impactful cinematic experiences.