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It's very important for me to be in movies that don't have a message. Messages tend to be a little preachy, and I don't think that's what movies are about. It's important for me to be in movies that have a human level, have a heart in them. That's the reason why I did this (Rendition) and it just so happens to be really topical. This political issue is a very important one right now which as Americans we need to look at. So it seems like it's (the film) is very political, it seems like there's a message in it, but ultimately there's a real story about human beings dealing with actual human things.

Jake Gyllenhaal#14

FilmmakingMoviesStory

About this quote

What does it mean?
Films should prioritize human connection over didactic messages, even when dealing with political topics, to remain engaging and relatable.
In plain terms
Movies need heart and human stories rather than preaching political lessons.
What can you take from it?
Storytelling should focus on humanity.

Where it applies

  • Critiquing films
  • Writing scripts
  • Political discussion

Putting it to work

  • Focus on human elements
  • Avoid heavy-handed messaging

Questions to consider

  • Should films be political?
  • Does story matter more than message?

Another view

Some issues require direct messages to effect change.

More from Jake Gyllenhaal

  1. We live in a sad time where actors are politicians & politicians are actors.

    Permalink to quote #13
  2. For some reason, ... I just got so angry that I had chipped my tooth ... and just started hitting him and we didn't talk for a month after that.

    Permalink to quote #15
  3. The truth is most of the films that make a lot of money no one remembers, and I'm not interested in making films that no one remembers.

    Permalink to quote #12

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