Meaning: The quote "Movie making is the slowest business on earth next to fossil manufacture" by Aaron Latham, a journalist and writer, encapsulates the laborious and time-consuming nature of the film industry. In just a few words, Latham succinctly captures the essence of the challenges, intricacies, and patience required in the process of making a movie. This quote sheds light on the often overlooked aspect of the film industry, emphasizing the painstaking, meticulous efforts involved in bringing a story to life on the silver screen.

The comparison of movie making to "fossil manufacture" highlights the deliberate and methodical pace at which films are produced. Fossil manufacture, a process that involves the formation of fossils over millions of years, is an analogy that vividly conveys the protracted timeline and painstaking attention to detail inherent in the film production process. This comparison serves to underscore the arduous nature of movie making, emphasizing that it is a slow, deliberate, and time-intensive endeavor.

The quote also alludes to the fact that movie making is a business, highlighting the commercial and economic aspects that are intertwined with the creative process. While many people associate filmmaking with glamour and creativity, Latham's quote draws attention to the fact that it is also a business venture, subject to financial constraints, market demands, and investment risks. The intricate balance between artistic vision and commercial viability further complicates the already time-consuming nature of movie making.

Furthermore, the quote implies that the gestation period of a movie from conception to completion can be excruciatingly slow. The development of a script, casting, pre-production, filming, post-production, and distribution are all phases that demand significant time and effort. The meticulous attention to detail, from scouting locations to editing the final cut, contributes to the gradual progression of a film from concept to reality.

In addition, the quote underscores the collaborative nature of filmmaking. The involvement of numerous individuals, including directors, producers, actors, cinematographers, editors, and crew members, further contributes to the slow pace of the business. Coordinating the efforts of a diverse array of talents and personalities, aligning creative visions, and navigating logistical challenges all add layers of complexity to the already time-consuming process of making a movie.

Moreover, the quote resonates with the experiences of filmmakers who often endure long periods of waiting, uncertainty, and setbacks in bringing their projects to fruition. Delays due to funding, scheduling conflicts, technical issues, and unforeseen circumstances can significantly extend the timeline of a film production. This unpredictability and the need for perseverance in the face of setbacks are inherent to the slow and challenging nature of movie making.

In conclusion, Aaron Latham's quote encapsulates the painstaking and protracted nature of movie making, likening it to the slowest business on earth next to fossil manufacture. This succinct yet powerful statement sheds light on the multifaceted challenges, collaborative efforts, and commercial considerations that contribute to the time-intensive process of bringing a movie to life. It serves as a reminder of the perseverance, dedication, and patience required in the world of filmmaking.