A first look to Ron Howard

In my approach to become a better filmmaker, I like to analyze the different responses of several leaders in the industry. I found this old interview made to Ron Howard about his film “Frost/Nixon.” Here, Ron Howard depicts his views as a director on what he evaluates as a good story and what makes him get on board with projects. The interview is an interesting piece that allows you to see how experienced directors work the craft. You realize after viewing the video that it doesn’t take a mastermind story in order to make a film. It only takes a story, which doesn’t have to be that “original”, but well told. Films have to be provocative. They have to incite the public to view more and more. Of course, many people might find “Frost/Nixon” a very slow paced film. However, we have to remember that good films should always have a target audience, and in the case of this film, it targets a political issue, which demands an audience that craves these types of subjects.

In the interview, Ron Howard explains that he watched the play and fell in love with it. He immediately called Brian Grazer, one of his producers, and told him about his interest in making an adaptation of the piece. Also, he is asked about how he approaches a story in the beginning, and he answers that he always views it in the beginning as an audience member. Now here I believe is one of the keys: we forget many times as filmmakers that films are meant to be watched and that audiences have to believe in the characters and the stories. Now in order to do that, we have to set aside our egos and understand that it is not about telling a story for us, but telling a story for the audience with our point of view. It is crucial to remember that films are products meant to be watched and to be given exposure.

I encourage you to watch this interview. Ron Howard also talks about other of his films like “Cocoon”, “A Beautiful Mind”, and “The Davinci Code.” He portrays stories that have twists, mystery, and overall they are provocative to various types of audiences. We always learn from other craftsmen of the art, and if we listen well, we will always keep our minds focused on what really matters when we make films.