All great work is preparing yourself for the accident to happen

All great work is preparing yourself for the accident to happen

Sidney Lumet, the legendary filmmaker known for his groundbreaking work in movies such as "12 Angry Men," "Dog Day Afternoon," and "Network," understood the importance of preparation in creating great art. He believed that all great work is about preparing yourself for the unexpected, for the accident to happen. Lumet's approach to filmmaking was meticulous and detail-oriented, with a focus on thorough preparation and planning.

Lumet's films were known for their realism and authenticity, which he achieved through careful attention to detail and a deep understanding of his characters and their motivations. He believed that in order to capture the truth of a story on film, one must be prepared for anything that may happen during the production process. This meant having a clear vision of the story, the characters, and the themes, as well as being open to improvisation and spontaneity.

One of Lumet's most famous films, "12 Angry Men," is a prime example of his belief in preparation and readiness for the unexpected. The film, which takes place almost entirely in a single room as a jury deliberates a murder case, required meticulous planning and attention to detail in order to create tension and drama. Lumet worked closely with his actors to develop their characters and relationships, and encouraged improvisation and experimentation during filming to capture the raw emotion and intensity of the story.

In "Dog Day Afternoon," Lumet once again demonstrated his commitment to preparation and readiness for the unexpected. The film, based on a true story, follows a bank robbery gone wrong and the ensuing hostage situation. Lumet worked closely with his actors, including Al Pacino in a career-defining role, to create a sense of urgency and chaos that feels authentic and immediate. By preparing for every possible scenario and being open to the unexpected, Lumet was able to capture the raw emotion and intensity of the story in a way that resonated with audiences.