Joaquin Phoenix: 'The reason I keep making movies is I hate the last thing I did. I'm trying to rectify my wrongs.'

The reason I keep making movies is I hate the last thing I did. I'm trying to rectify my wrongs.

Joaquin Phoenix, renowned actor and Academy Award winner, once said, "The reason I keep making movies is I hate the last thing I did. I'm trying to rectify my wrongs." This quote encapsulates Phoenix's relentless pursuit of improvement and growth as an artist. It reflects his dissatisfaction with his previous work and a deep-rooted desire to right his perceived artistic wrongs. In essence, the quote hints at an ongoing journey of self-discovery and the idea that an artist's work is never truly complete.Phoenix's statement holds great meaning in the context of his career. The fact that he hates his previous work reveals his commitment to continuous self-assessment and self-improvement. In a world where many artists may become complacent or settle for past successes, Phoenix's relentless pursuit of excellence sets him apart. This mindset pushes him to explore different roles, genres, and styles, each new movie serving as an opportunity for him to rectify any perceived mistakes from before. It showcases his willingness to challenge himself and pursue growth, even if it means stepping out of his comfort zone.Interestingly, Phoenix's quote resonates with a philosophical concept known as "becoming" or "process philosophy." According to this framework, reality is not conceived as static or fixed, but rather as an ongoing process of change and development. This perspective challenges the conventional notion that achievements indicate finality and success. Instead, it suggests that the journey itself, the continuous striving for improvement and growth, holds intrinsic value.When we apply this concept to the quote, Phoenix's perspective on his work takes on a whole new dimension. His disdain for his previous work may not solely arise from a desire to rectify his perceived wrongs but could also stem from an understanding that artistic creation is an ongoing process, with each work serving as a stepping stone towards something greater. In this light, hating one's previous work becomes a sign of progress and an acknowledgment that there is always room for improvement.The importance of Phoenix's quote lies in its universal applicability beyond the realm of filmmaking. It serves as a reminder that growth and self-improvement are not confined to any specific domain but extend to all aspects of human life. Whether it be personal relationships, career goals, or artistic pursuits, this philosophy of continually striving to rectify our "wrongs" offers an invaluable perspective.In conclusion, Joaquin Phoenix's quote, "The reason I keep making movies is I hate the last thing I did. I'm trying to rectify my wrongs," encapsulates his unwavering commitment to growth as an artist. It reflects his dissatisfaction with his previous work and his relentless pursuit of improvement. Moreover, when viewed through the lens of process philosophy, the quote underscores the idea that artistic creation, and indeed life itself, is an ongoing journey of becoming. Phoenix's perspective inspires us to embrace the inherent value of progress, recognizing that our past experiences provide the foundation for continuous growth and the rectification of our perceived "wrongs."