Top 12 Most Controversial Quotes From Steven Spielberg

Here are some of the most controversial quotes from Steven Spielberg

• “I’m not really interested in making money.” This quote might seem ironic coming from one of the most successful and wealthy filmmakers in history. Some people might accuse Spielberg of being hypocritical or dishonest, while others might admire his passion and artistic integrity. In any case, this quote reveals that Spielberg does not measure his success by his box office numbers, but by his personal satisfaction and creative vision.
• “As a Jew I am aware of how important the existence of Israel is for the survival of us all. And because I am proud of being Jewish, I am worried by the growing anti-Semitism and anti-Zionism in the world.” This quote reflects Spielberg’s strong support for Israel and his concern about the rise of hatred and violence against Jews. Some people might agree with his stance and appreciate his courage to speak out, while others might disagree with his views and accuse him of being biased or ignorant. This quote also shows that Spielberg is not afraid to express his political opinions and to use his films as a platform to address important issues.
• “There is a fine line between censorship and good taste and moral responsibility.” This quote suggests that Spielberg is aware of the ethical dilemmas that filmmakers face when dealing with sensitive or controversial topics. He implies that he tries to balance artistic freedom with social responsibility, and to avoid offending or harming his audience. However, some people might argue that Spielberg is too cautious or conservative, and that he should push the boundaries more and challenge the status quo.
• “All good ideas start out as bad ideas, that’s why it takes so long.” This quote reveals Spielberg’s creative process and his perseverance in developing his ideas. He implies that he does not give up on his initial concepts, but rather works on them until they become better and more refined. He also suggests that he is not afraid of failure or criticism, but sees them as opportunities to improve. However, some people might question his judgment or taste, and wonder if some of his bad ideas should have been discarded or revised.
• “People have forgotten how to tell a story. Stories don’t have a middle or an end any more. They usually have a beginning that never stops beginning.” This quote expresses Spielberg’s frustration with the current state of storytelling in cinema. He criticizes the lack of structure, coherence, and closure in modern films, and implies that he values traditional narrative techniques and conventions. He also implies that he is confident in his own storytelling skills and that he knows how to engage and satisfy his audience. However, some people might disagree with his assessment and accuse him of being outdated or elitist, and prefer more innovative or experimental forms of storytelling.
• “Remember, science fiction’s always been the kind of first level alert to think about things to come. It’s easier for an audience to take warnings from sci-fi without feeling that we’re preaching to them. Every science fiction movie I have ever seen, any one that’s worth its weight in celluloid, warns us about things that ultimately come true.” This quote shows Spielberg’s appreciation and admiration for science fiction as a genre. He argues that science fiction has a prophetic and educational function, and that it can raise awareness and caution about the future without being too didactic or moralistic. He also suggests that he is influenced by science fiction films and that he tries to incorporate their themes and messages into his own work. However, some people might challenge his claim and point out the limitations or inaccuracies of science fiction predictions, or question his authority or credibility as a science fiction filmmaker.
• “Why pay a dollar for a bookmark? Why not use the dollar for a bookmark?” This quote demonstrates Spielberg’s humor and pragmatism. He makes a witty remark about the absurdity of spending money on something that can be easily replaced by something cheaper and more readily available. He also implies that he is not wasteful or extravagant, but rather sensible and frugal. However, some people might find his joke offensive or insensitive, especially if they value bookmarks as collectibles or souvenirs.
• “Bloated budgets are ruining Hollywood – these pictures are squeezing all the other types of movies out of Hollywood.” This quote shows Spielberg’s criticism of the trend of making expensive and extravagant blockbuster films that dominate the industry. He implies that he is concerned about the lack of diversity and originality in Hollywood, and that he prefers smaller and more intimate films that focus on storytelling and character development. However, some people might find his statement ironic or hypocritical, considering that he himself has made some of the most costly and successful films of all time, such as Jurassic Park, E.T., and Indiana Jones.
• “I made ‘Saving Private Ryan’ for my father. He’s the one who filled my head with war stories when I was growing up.” This quote reveals Spielberg’s personal motivation and inspiration for making one of his most acclaimed and influential films. He explains that he wanted to honor his father, who was a veteran of World War II, and to share his stories with the world. He also suggests that he was influenced by his father’s experiences and perspectives on war and history. However, some people might question his accuracy or authenticity in portraying the war, or accuse him of being sentimental or patriotic.
• “You have many years ahead of you to create the dreams that we can’t even imagine dreaming. You have done more for the collective unconscious of this planet than you will ever know.” This quote is part of Spielberg’s speech when he presented George Lucas with the American Film Institute’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2005. He praises Lucas for his visionary and groundbreaking work in filmmaking, and for his impact on the culture and imagination of millions of people. He also expresses his admiration and friendship for Lucas, and his optimism for his future projects. However, some people might disagree with his assessment and argue that Lucas has not lived up to his potential or reputation, or that he has ruined his legacy with his prequels and revisions.
• “One of the gratuities about being a director is that you can volunteer yourself out of difficult details.” This quote illustrates Spielberg’s sense of humor and self-deprecation. He jokes about the perks and privileges of being a director, and how he can delegate or avoid the tasks that he does not like or find challenging. He also implies that he is aware of his limitations and weaknesses as a filmmaker, and that he relies on his collaborators and crew members to help him out. However, some people might interpret his remark as arrogant or lazy, or as a sign of lack of involvement or commitment.
• “Lincoln’s leadership is based on a number of precepts, but my favorite one is that he acted in the name, and for the good, of the people.” This quote reflects Spielberg’s admiration and respect for Abraham Lincoln, whom he portrayed in his film Lincoln. He identifies with Lincoln’s democratic and humanitarian values, and his dedication to serving the public interest. He also implies that he tries to emulate Lincoln’s principles and style in his own work and life. However, some people might challenge his interpretation or representation of Lincoln, or accuse him of idealizing or simplifying a complex and controversial figure.