Meaning: The quote "Somebody once said, you have to wait 20 years before you can tell if a movie's any good or not so that's probably true" by Walter Hill, a renowned director, offers a thought-provoking perspective on the assessment of a film's quality. This statement encapsulates the idea that the true value and impact of a movie may not be immediately apparent and can only be fully understood with the passage of time.

Walter Hill, known for his work on films such as "The Warriors," "48 Hrs.," and "The Long Riders," is a respected figure in the film industry. His experience and expertise in filmmaking lend weight to his observation about the time it takes to accurately gauge a movie's quality. This quote suggests that the initial reception or critical reviews of a film may not provide a definitive judgment of its worth and that a longer timeframe is necessary for a more comprehensive evaluation.

The notion that a 20-year period is required to assess a movie's quality raises several intriguing considerations. It implies that the impact and resonance of a film may grow and evolve over time, as it becomes embedded in the cultural consciousness and undergoes reassessment in different contexts. Additionally, the quote suggests that a viewer's own perspective and life experiences may influence their understanding and appreciation of a film, and these factors may only fully manifest after a significant period has elapsed.

From a historical and cultural standpoint, the quote by Walter Hill prompts contemplation on the enduring relevance of films. It acknowledges that the significance of a movie may extend beyond its initial release, as it continues to be studied, analyzed, and celebrated in the years that follow. This long-term perspective challenges the notion of instant judgment and encourages a more patient and reflective approach to evaluating cinematic works.

Moreover, the quote invites consideration of the changing landscape of film criticism and analysis. In an era characterized by rapid technological advancements and evolving audience preferences, the enduring value of a movie may indeed become more apparent over time, as it is reevaluated in light of shifting cultural, social, and artistic paradigms.

In conclusion, Walter Hill's quote about waiting 20 years to determine a movie's quality offers a compelling insight into the complex and multifaceted nature of film appreciation. It encourages a reexamination of the temporal dimensions of cinematic evaluation and underscores the enduring impact of movies as cultural artifacts. This thought-provoking perspective challenges viewers, critics, and scholars to adopt a more patient and nuanced approach to assessing the enduring worth of cinematic works.