Meaning: The quote you provided is from Philip Kaufman, a renowned American film director, known for his work on films such as "The Right Stuff," "The Unbearable Lightness of Being," and "Invasion of the Body Snatchers." In this quote, Kaufman is discussing the filming location for a movie, specifically mentioning San Francisco and the efforts to shoot the exteriors of the film there.

Kaufman's quote suggests that there was a desire to initially shoot part of the film in San Francisco, possibly for its iconic and picturesque cityscape. However, there seemed to be some hesitation or resistance to this idea, with the initial plan being to capture the exteriors in San Francisco and then return to Los Angeles to continue filming. Kaufman and his team, however, fought to have the entire film shot in San Francisco, and it seems that their efforts were successful, much to the satisfaction of Paramount, the film's studio.

This quote sheds light on the complexities and negotiations involved in selecting filming locations for movies. The decision to shoot on location can have a significant impact on the look and feel of a film, as well as on the local economy and community. San Francisco, with its distinct architecture, diverse neighborhoods, and natural beauty, has been a popular choice for filmmakers seeking a unique and visually striking backdrop for their stories.

The mention of Paramount's satisfaction with filming in San Francisco suggests that the decision yielded positive results for the production. Shooting on location can add authenticity and depth to a film, immersing audiences in the setting and enhancing the overall cinematic experience. Furthermore, the decision to film in San Francisco likely had economic benefits for the city, providing employment opportunities for local crew members and potentially boosting tourism and local businesses.

Kaufman's remarks also highlight the collaborative nature of filmmaking, with various stakeholders, including directors, producers, and studio executives, weighing in on crucial decisions such as filming locations. The director's passion for capturing the essence of San Francisco in the film and the studio's ultimate satisfaction with the decision to film there underscore the significance of location choices in shaping the identity of a movie.

In conclusion, Philip Kaufman's quote provides insight into the deliberations and efforts involved in selecting filming locations for movies. It emphasizes the impact of location choices on the visual and narrative aspects of a film, as well as on the local communities involved. The successful push to film in San Francisco and the positive response from Paramount serve as a testament to the importance of thoughtful location decisions in the filmmaking process.