Deep Dive
Why did Steven Spielberg choose 'The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance' by Gene Pitney as one of his Desert Island Discs?
Spielberg chose 'The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance' because it was a seminal movie in his life. The song led him to the theater, sparking his interest in the film before he knew John Ford directed it. It was one of his favorite Westerns of all time.
Why does the Bach's Little Fugue in G minor hold special significance for Steven Spielberg?
The Bach's Little Fugue in G minor is significant to Spielberg because it was the tune his father whistled every time he came home from work. The whistling signaled his father's return and was a familiar and comforting sound for the family.
Why did Steven Spielberg and his father become estranged after his parents' divorce?
Spielberg and his father became estranged because Spielberg was upset that his father took the blame for the separation, even though Spielberg knew his mother had fallen in love with his father's best friend. Spielberg did not understand why his father took the fall.
Why does Steven Spielberg believe 'What the World Needs Now Is Love' is still relevant today?
Spielberg believes 'What the World Needs Now Is Love' is still relevant because it promotes the idea of love and unity, which he feels is needed more than ever. He hopes the song could inspire people from different political backgrounds to come together.
Why did Steven Spielberg decide to hide in a restroom during a Universal Studios tour?
Spielberg hid in a restroom during a Universal Studios tour to avoid being taken back to the bus and to explore the studio lot. This led to an unofficial apprenticeship where he spent the next two months at Universal Studios, learning about filmmaking.
Why does Steven Spielberg regret the impact of 'Jaws' on shark populations?
Spielberg regrets the impact of 'Jaws' because it led to a feeding frenzy of sport fishing and the decimation of shark populations. He feels responsible for the negative consequences the film had on sharks and marine life.
Why does Steven Spielberg believe that a child's perspective is crucial in many of his films?
Spielberg believes a child's perspective is crucial because it brings a sense of innocence and lack of cynicism. This perspective allows for a more genuine and emotional connection with the audience, as seen in films like E.T. and The BFG.
Why does Steven Spielberg feel that hope is a driving force in his films?
Spielberg feels that hope is a driving force in his films because he believes that hope is better than despair. He aims to offer a solution or a promise of a better future, guiding the audience to form a better understanding of themselves and the world.
Why did it take Steven Spielberg a long time to feel proud of his Jewish identity?
Spielberg took a long time to feel proud of his Jewish identity because he grew up in a predominantly non-Jewish community in Phoenix, Arizona, where he felt on the outside. He wasn't raised in a strictly Orthodox environment, which made him less connected to his heritage.
Why did Steven Spielberg choose 'The Grapes of Wrath' as his book to take to the desert island?
Spielberg chose 'The Grapes of Wrath' because it is his favorite book. The character Maude Jode, in particular, resonates with him as a strong maternal figure, similar to his own mother.
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