Meaning: The quote "We want a story that starts out with an earthquake and works its way up to a climax" by Samuel Goldwyn, a renowned film producer and co-founder of several motion picture studios, encapsulates the essence of compelling storytelling. It emphasizes the importance of engaging the audience from the very beginning and gradually building up to a powerful and captivating climax. This quote reflects Goldwyn's deep understanding of the dynamics of storytelling in the context of film production, but its relevance extends far beyond the realm of cinema, serving as a guiding principle for storytellers across various mediums.

Goldwyn's statement is a testament to the enduring power of narrative structure. By likening the ideal story to an earthquake that sets the stage for escalating intensity, he highlights the significance of a strong and attention-grabbing opening. Just as an earthquake immediately captures attention and sets events into motion, a story that begins with a compelling event or premise has the potential to captivate and draw in the audience from the outset.

The mention of "working its way up to a climax" underscores the importance of narrative progression and development. Goldwyn's emphasis on the journey towards a climax suggests that a well-crafted story is not just about the destination, but also about the unfolding of events and the rising action that leads to a pivotal moment of resolution or revelation. This gradual ascent towards a climactic point is crucial for building tension, creating emotional investment, and ultimately delivering a satisfying payoff for the audience.

In the context of filmmaking, Goldwyn's quote speaks to the fundamental principles of screenplay writing and storytelling in cinema. It underscores the need for screenwriters and filmmakers to craft narratives that are not only engaging but also structurally sound, with a clear sense of progression and momentum. From the opening scenes that grab the audience's attention to the rising action that propels the story forward, and finally to the climactic moments that deliver emotional catharsis or resolution, the quote encapsulates the essence of effective storytelling in film.

Beyond the realm of cinema, the quote also resonates with the broader art of storytelling. Whether in literature, theater, or any other narrative form, the principles articulated by Goldwyn hold true. A strong and impactful opening sets the stage for the unfolding narrative, drawing in the audience and setting the tone for what is to come. The gradual escalation of tension and stakes keeps the audience invested, while the eventual climax provides the payoff and resolution that leave a lasting impression.

In the realm of marketing and advertising, the quote's emphasis on starting with an earthquake can be interpreted as the need to grab the audience's attention from the very beginning. In a world where attention spans are increasingly short, the ability to create a strong opening that commands attention is essential for successful brand storytelling and communication.

In conclusion, Samuel Goldwyn's quote encapsulates the essence of compelling storytelling, emphasizing the importance of a strong opening and a well-crafted narrative progression leading to a climactic payoff. Whether in the context of filmmaking, literature, marketing, or any other form of storytelling, the principles articulated in this quote continue to resonate, serving as a timeless guide for engaging and impactful narrative creation.