Ridley Scott Laments Hollywood’s Current State, Hints at ‘Gladiator III’
Legendary filmmaker Ridley Scott recently expressed his concerns about the modern film industry, stating it’s currently “drowning in mediocrity.” The director, known for iconic films like Blade Runner and Gladiator, shared these thoughts during a discussion at BFI Southbank in London. He’s finding himself revisiting his own work, impressed by its enduring quality.
Scott believes the sheer volume of films produced globally – numbering in the millions – contributes to a decline in overall quality. He estimates that only a small percentage of these productions are truly “good,” with a mere 5% reaching “great” status. This contrasts sharply with the 1940s, when a higher proportion of the comparatively fewer films released were of similar quality.
A Shift in Filmmaking Priorities
The veteran director suggests a key issue is an over-reliance on visual spectacle. He argues that many contemporary movies are “saved” by digital effects, masking a lack of strong foundational storytelling.
Here’s what Scott emphasized:
* A compelling script is paramount.
* strong writing should precede extensive visual effects.
* Focusing on the narrative foundation is crucial for a film’s success.
“Get it on paper!” he urged, highlighting the importance of a well-developed screenplay.
Revisiting Past Successes
Interestingly,Scott admitted to a recent habit of re-watching his own films.He found himself pleasantly surprised by their timelessness, specifically mentioning Black Hawk Down. He questioned how he managed to create such a compelling film, demonstrating a self-critical yet appreciative viewpoint.
However, he acknowledges that occasionally, a genuinely good film emerges, offering a welcome respite from the prevailing trend.
The Future of ‘Gladiator’
Beyond his critique of the current landscape, Scott also provided updates on the Gladiator franchise.Gladiator II, a sequel 24 years in the making, is nearing completion.
Furthermore, he’s already conceptualizing Gladiator III. He revealed the core question driving the next installment: what became of the son from the original film?
Scott drew a parallel to his approach with the alien franchise, explaining his desire to revitalize established properties. He described the writing process as ”building a pyramid in reverse,” emphasizing its challenging nature. He’s currently developing a footprint for the story, hinting that the protagonist will technically be the emperor of Rome.
He playfully concluded by stating he wouldn’t reveal further details, fearing someone might steal his ideas. This demonstrates his continued passion for storytelling and his commitment to crafting compelling narratives, even after decades in the industry.
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