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About this quote

What does it mean?
Good movies never depress; all depressing movies are bad.
In plain terms
If a film makes you feel down, it’s not a good one.
What can you take from it?
Seek uplifting or engaging films rather than sad ones.

Where it applies

  • movie selection
  • film criticism

Putting it to work

  • read reviews for tone
  • avoid overly bleak titles

Questions to consider

  • Can a depressing film still be artistically valuable?
  • Do you prefer uplifting stories?

Another view

Some great films intentionally explore sadness to convey depth.

More from Roger Ebert

  1. Never marry somebody you couldn't sit next to on a three-day bus trip.

    Permalink to quote #99
  2. No good movie is too long and no bad movie is short enough.

    Permalink to quote #101
  3. Most of us do not consciously look at movies.

    Permalink to quote #98

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