Paul W. S. Anderson: 'I don't read reviews anymore.'

I don't read reviews anymore.

In his quote, "I don't read reviews anymore," filmmaker Paul W. S. Anderson captures a sentiment that resonates with many creators and artists in the modern world. The straightforward meaning of this quote is that Anderson has chosen to distance himself from reading reviews of his work. He has intentionally disconnected from external opinions, focusing solely on his own creative process without being influenced by the often subjective nature of reviews. This decision can be seen as both a conscious act of self-preservation from potential criticism and a means of maintaining creative integrity. However, delving deeper, let's explore an unexpected philosophical concept – the idea that by not reading reviews, Anderson may be embracing the teachings of Stoicism.Stoicism, an ancient philosophy originating in Greece, encourages individuals to detach themselves from external judgments and focus solely on their internal virtues and values. By avoiding reviews, Anderson is essentially shielding himself from the opinions of others, allowing himself to remain undisturbed by praise or criticism. This stoic approach enables him to maintain a sense of inner tranquility and freedom from external validation or discouragement.Contrary to Anderson's decision, many artists place great importance on reviews, using them as a gauge of their creativity and success. Reviews can provide valuable feedback and constructive criticism, shaping the future direction of their work. However, by intentionally refraining from reading reviews, Anderson is making a bold statement about the subjective nature of criticism and its potential to interfere with the creative process.Anderson's stance also highlights the delicate balance between artistic pursuit and public validation. By shunning external opinions, he is prioritizing the purity of his own vision and artistic expression. This decision can be viewed as an act of self-assuredness, symbolizing his confidence in his abilities and the belief that his work should be judged solely on its intrinsic value rather than public opinion.Moreover, by dissociating from reviews, Anderson may also be shielding himself from undue influence. Reviews, especially negative ones, have the power to sway public perception and potentially impact future opportunities. By ignoring these external evaluations, he eliminates the risk of succumbing to the pressure of catering to a certain style or adhering to the expectations of others. This unwavering commitment to his own creative instincts allows Anderson to explore uncharted territories and take risks without the fear of unfavorable critique holding him back.However, it's worth noting that while Anderson's approach may preserve his artistic integrity, it does create a potential blind spot. Feedback from reviews, whether positive or negative, can offer valuable insights and perspectives that could enhance his future projects. The absence of external voices may limit his growth as an artist, restricting him within the confines of his own perspective and potentially hindering his evolution.In conclusion, Paul W. S. Anderson's quote, "I don't read reviews anymore," reflects a decision to disconnect from external opinions and embrace the freedom and peace of mind that comes with focusing solely on his creative process. By aligning his stance with Stoic ideals, Anderson demonstrates an unwavering commitment to his artistic vision, protecting himself from the potential impact of external validation or criticism. While this approach has its merits, it also carries the risk of closing oneself off to valuable feedback and growth opportunities. Ultimately, each artist must find their own balance between staying true to their creative voice and remaining open to the benefits of external perspectives.