Veteran director Ridley Scott has voiced strong criticism about the current state of cinema, expressing his frustration with the overwhelming abundance of low-quality films in today’s market. Speaking recently, Scott conveyed his belief that modern movies suffer from a lack of originality and artistic substance, leading him to revisit his own work for satisfaction instead of following new releases. This statement reflects his broader perspective on the film industry’s trajectory amid an ever-growing volume of productions worldwide.
Scott’s Evaluation of Film Quantity Versus Quality
In a conversation with his son, filmmaker Luke Scott, for Metro, Ridley Scott suggested that the sheer number of films produced today contributes to declining standards. He estimated that millions of films are made globally now, a stark contrast to the 1940s, when only a few hundred were created annually. However, their quality distribution seems heavily skewed toward mediocrity. Scott outlined his breakdown of current film quality, noting,
“The quantity of movies that are made today, literally globally, millions. Not thousands, millions…and most of it is s**t…80% – 60% – eh, 40% is the rest, and 25% of that 40 is not bad, and 10% is pretty good, and the top 5% is great. I’m not sure about the proportion of what I’ve just said, but in the 1940s, when there were maybe 300 films a year made, 70% of them were similar…Because I think a lot of films today are saved and made more expensive by digital effects, because what they haven’t got is a great thing on paper first. Get it on paper!”
This comment highlights Scott’s belief that many modern productions rely excessively on digital effects to mask weak scripts, lacking compelling storytelling from the outset.
Finding Comfort in Revisiting Past Successes
Faced with his dissatisfaction toward most current films, Scott admitted to finding solace in watching his own past work rather than seeking out new releases. He specifically mentioned his acclaimed military thriller Black Hawk Down as an example of a film that withstands the test of time and remains impressive to him. Scott said,
“Well, actually, right now, I’m finding mediocrity; we’re drowning in mediocrity. And so what I do, it’s a horrible thing, but I’ve started watching my own movies, and actually, they’re pretty good! And also, they don’t age,”
and added,
“I watched [‘Black Hawk Down’] the other night and I thought, ‘How in the hell did I manage to do that?’ But I think occasionally a good one will happen, [and] it’s like a relief that there’s somebody out there who’s doing a good movie.”
Despite his tough critique, this reflects Scott’s enduring pride in his craftsmanship and hope that exceptional films can still emerge.
Upcoming Projects and Continued Work Ethic
Although critical of the current cinematic landscape, Ridley Scott is far from retiring. He is actively directing his upcoming science fiction film Dog Stars, which is scheduled for release on March 27. The film boasts a notable ensemble cast including Jacob Elordi, Margaret Qualley, Josh Brolin, Guy Pearce, and Benedict Wong. Beyond this, Scott is developing several other projects such as the Western Freewalkers, a Bee Gees biopic, and the long-delayed World War I drama Covenant With Death.
His ongoing productivity demonstrates a determination to keep contributing notable work despite his concerns about broader industry trends.
Implications for the Film Industry and Audiences
Ridley Scott’s outspoken criticism sheds light on the anxieties felt by some leading creators about modern filmmaking’s direction. His sharp remarks underscore a tension between the mass production of entertainment content and the pursuit of original, high-quality storytelling. As studios increasingly rely on visual effects and franchises, Scott’s comments invite reflection on how the industry might regain a balance where strong scripts and artistry drive film success.
For audiences, Scott’s stance may encourage a closer look at films, seeking those rare works that rise above the “mediocrity” he describes. For filmmakers, it is a call to prioritize writing and creative vision amid changing technologies and production scales. With Scott continuing to create new films, his critique also signals that veteran directors remain vital voices in shaping cinema’s future, even as the landscape becomes more complex.
