Alex McDowell discusses the inevitability of meaningfully adopting new visual effects technologies into the production design process.

“We’re in 100 percent digital film space now. I think the industry has to accept that this is like the transition to talkies — it’s massive and it’s game-changing and it’s happening. You can say “talkies are a gimmick and I’m a silent film man,” but your career is effectively over once you’ve made that decision. Fundamentally these ever-changing tools are just a way to enhance our creative process. I don’t know how to use any of this stuff, but what I’ve discovered is that my ignorance is a real asset — I don’t know anything about the limitations of the technology, so I can expect it can do whatever I imagine. And usually that’s the ideal relationship to have with engineers and technologists, because they love the challenge to create under the pressure of a creative demand.”

– Alex McDowell

Minority Report (2002) Minority Report (2002)

How do you feel about this Alex McDowell quote? Do you agree with his statement? Have you adjusted to the increased use of technology in the practice of production design?

I’d love to know what you think in the comments below.

You can find previous Quote of the Day posts here.