"Every film should have its own world, a logic and feel to it that expands beyond the exact image that the audience is seeing"

Creating a movie is like crafting a whole universe. It’s not just about what you see on the screen, but about a deeper logic and feeling that make the world of the film come alive. Imagine watching a movie where every scene, every detail works together to give you a sense of place and atmosphere that you can almost feel and touch. That's the core idea here — a film should immerse you in its unique world, making you believe in its reality even if the exact images you see don’t fully show everything.

When Alfonso Cuarón said this, he was talking about how vital it is for a filmmaker to create a cohesive and believable world within their film. He’s a guy who directed movies like "Gravity" and "Children of Men," both of which are perfect examples of this concept. Cuarón's movies don’t just display scenes; they build entire realities that pull you in and make you feel part of the story. It's like stepping into a different dimension where everything follows its own internal rules and emotions.

Let's take "Harry Potter" for instance — specifically, the first film, "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone." When you watch it, you don't just see Hogwarts; you feel the magic in the air, the ancient history in its stone walls, the wonder in the eyes of the students. You're not just seeing a school, you're entering a magical universe that’s meticulously crafted, from the moving staircases to the enchanted ceiling of the Great Hall. Even though not every detail of Hogwarts is shown, you get a sense of its vastness and magic, thanks to the consistency and depth of the world-building.

So, how do you apply this wisdom in real life? Whether you're a budding filmmaker, a writer, or even a game designer, the key is to think beyond what’s directly visible. Ask yourself: what’s the logic of the world I’m creating? What rules do characters live by, what kind of atmosphere do they breathe? It’s about stitching together all the little details to create a tapestry that feels whole and real. It's not just about the plot or the characters; it's about the environment they inhabit and how it all fits together.

Imagine you’re writing a story set in a dystopian future. You need more than just futuristic buildings and advanced technology. Think about the daily life of the people — what do they eat? How do they communicate? What are their fears and hopes in this world? Paint a picture that goes beyond the obvious. It’s like adding spices to a dish — each element enhances the flavor and makes it richer.

I remember a friend who created a short film about a lonely mechanic in a rusty old town. Instead of just showing the mechanic at work, he crafted an atmosphere where you could almost smell the oil and feel the grime under your fingernails. The radio played old tunes, the light was always dim and smoky, and every detail worked together to make the viewer feel the weight of this mechanic’s life. It wasn’t just a story; it was an experience.

So, next time you’re building a world — in any medium — dive deep into its essence. Think about all the hidden corners and small details that make it unique. Create a world so vivid that your audience can lose themselves in it, even if they don't see everything. That’s the magic of storytelling.