Film is truth 24 times a second, and every cut is a lie.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The quote "Film is truth 24 times a second, and every cut is a lie" encapsulates a profound insight into the nature of filmmaking and the perception of truth in visual storytelling. At its core, the statement suggests that film, through its rapid succession of frames (24 frames per second in traditional film), captures moments of reality with a fidelity that can be incredibly powerful and authentic. Each frame, in isolation, represents a fragment of reality frozen in time, seemingly capturing truth in its rawest form.
However, the essence of filmmaking lies not only in what is shown but also in how it is presented. The act of cutting, a fundamental technique in film editing, introduces a deliberate alteration of the viewer's perception. When one scene transitions to another through a cut, it manipulates the flow of time and space, creating a narrative that may diverge from a continuous, unfiltered reality. In this context, every cut can be seen as a "lie" because it interrupts the seamless continuity of real-life events, constructing a version of reality that is shaped by artistic choices, intentions, and interpretations.
Moreover, the quote touches on the dual role of film as both a medium of truth-telling and a vehicle for artistic expression. While films strive to capture moments of truth—emotions, events, and human experiences—through their visual and auditory elements, they inherently reflect the subjective perspectives of filmmakers and their creative teams. Directors, editors, and cinematographers make deliberate decisions about what to include, how to frame scenes, and when to cut, all of which influence the viewer's understanding and emotional response.
Furthermore, the quote invites contemplation on the broader implications of media representation and the complexities of truth in a visually dominated culture. It suggests that while films can convey profound truths about the human condition and society, they also remind us of the inherent subjectivity and selectivity involved in storytelling. Audiences are prompted to engage critically with what they see on screen, recognizing that even the most visually convincing representation is shaped by the choices and perspectives of those behind the camera.
Ultimately, "Film is truth 24 times a second, and every cut is a lie" challenges us to consider the dynamic interplay between reality and representation in the art of filmmaking. It urges us to appreciate the power of film to reveal truths while acknowledging its capacity to shape and manipulate our understanding of reality through the creative act of editing. In doing so, it underscores the nuanced relationship between authenticity, perception, and the art of cinematic storytelling.
Who said the quote?
The quote "Film is truth 24 times a second, and every cut is a lie." is often attributed to Jean-Luc Godard (Quotes). Jean-Luc Godard is a renowned French filmmaker known for his groundbreaking contributions to the New Wave cinema movement.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
