Akira Kurosawa: Advice for Creatives

Akira Kurosawa and crew on the set of Seven Samurai.

What is the trick to success? How does one nourish his or her creativity? With over 30 director credits in a career spanning 57 years, Akira Kurosawa stands as a legend among legends whose work shines as a monument of artistic and personal achievement. In this video, the celebrated filmmaker of masterpieces, like Seven Samurai and Rashomon, offers impactful insight on achieving one's goals and on the creative process, making his advice for creatives an essential lesson for artists and filmmakers.

Andrei Tarkovsky: Sacrifice Yourself to the Art

“Self-Portrait Polaroid” by Andrei Tarkovsky.

"Cinema uses your life." For Andrei Tarkovsky, cinema is life. His thought that the art form makes use of your life is reflected in his films. Nostalghia follows the story of a Russian poet in Italy as his research into the life of an 18th century composer blends with nostalgic meditations on his life and homeland. Mirror is a cinematic stream of consciousness reflection that draws heavily on the director's personal life. The artistry that shines on screen is also reflective of cinema being life for Tarkovsky. Collaborators speak of his determined focus on set and his drive and commitment toward his filmmaking. This leads to the insight he offers to filmmakers, insight that is useful to all artists. "You should sacrifice yourself to the art." Immersing yourself in the process—in both the artistic act and career journey—is the key to creating a fulfilling creative life.