Technique is of less interest than character and story.
Meaning of the quote
The quote means that the way a movie is made (the technique) is not as important as the people in the story and the story itself. The director is saying that the characters and the plot of a movie are more interesting and important than how it was filmed or produced.
About William Friedkin
William Friedkin, the acclaimed American filmmaker, is best known for his crime thriller “The French Connection” and the horror classic “The Exorcist.” Throughout his career, he has directed a diverse range of films, from dramas and comedies to neo-noirs and psychological thrillers, cementing his place as a prominent figure in the “New Hollywood” movement of the 1970s.
More quotes from William Friedkin
I really think that sex always looks kind of funny in a movie.
American director and producer
I tend to be attracted to characters who are up against a wall with very few alternatives. And the film then becomes an examination of how they cope with very few options. And that’s, I guess, what interests me in terms of human behavior.
American director and producer
Violence is not funny.
American director and producer
I don’t know about the rest of you, but I feel pressed and tense almost every day of my life about something or other. And I think it’s the one thing, as I look into people’s eyes, that I think I share with almost everybody.
American director and producer
The first work of the director is to set a mood so that the actor’s work can take place, so that the actor can create. And in order to do that, you have to communicate, communicate with the actors. And direction is about communication on all levels.
American director and producer
Style is something that’s extremely important, but it must grow naturally out of who and what you are and what the material calls for. It cannot be superimposed.
American director and producer
Technique is of less interest than character and story.
American director and producer
The informing idea of what you want to say and do, that’s what will take you from film school to professional – the idea. That’s what is original to you.
American director and producer