A lesson I learned long ago

[Marcus]

About 30 years ago, I attended a very short (maybe an hour) class on 
Art Appreciation.  I have long forgotten almost all that was said, 
but one thing has stuck with me.

The teacher made the comment that most people think that an artist's 
ultimate goal is photo-realism.  This is a false notion.  Most great 
artists achieved that very early in their careers.  So where to go 
from there?  Most start trying to express ideas in different ways. 

He illustrated this by showing us a painting of a man that was quite 
good.  He then turned the painting upside down.  The painting became 
three blotches of color, nothing more.  It was quite amazing.

What has this to do with the first Harry Potter movie, you ask?  
Simple.  Steven Spielberg.

The first Harry Potter movie would likely bore him. He has done this 
kind of movie over and over and over again.  There would be no 
challenge.  That attitude would show through.

Now Chris Columbus cares passionately about HP.  He cares about 
canon.  He cares about the kids.  

So which director would you want to do HP?  One who has done this 
sort of movie so many times, he's bored; or one who is dying to do it?

In short, be a little more forgiving of Spielberg.  He made an honest 
choice and gave the honest reason.  You would prefer he lie?

Marcus