"Fundamentally, whether directing in the theatre or a film, you have to be a good storyteller, regardless of the form. The thing I had to work hardest at was thinking in shots"

In this quote by John Crowley, the focus is on the universal ability of storytelling that transcends the medium, whether it be theatre or movie. Crowley underscores a foundational fact: at its core, directing-- be it for the stage or the screen-- needs the capability to weave an engaging narrative. This highlights the director's function as not just a manager of logistics and efficiencies however as a storyteller who crafts the audience's journey through emotional, intellectual, and sensory experiences.

The reference of "regardless of the form" indicates that while theatre and movie stand out art types, with their own sets of tools and methods, the ability of storytelling remains consistent. Theatre primarily makes use of live efficiencies, discussion, and the power of the present minute, while movie utilizes visual storytelling through a lens, editing, and cinematic techniques. Nevertheless, both objective to captivate and resonate with audiences, a feat possible just through strong storytelling.

Crowley's reflection that "the thing I had to work hardest at was thinking in shots" reveals a personal obstacle he dealt with in transitioning between these modes of storytelling. This acknowledges the shift from the constant, real-time storytelling of theatre to the fragmented, constructed reality of film, where scenes are caught in disparate shots and assembled in the editing procedure. The psychological shift to "believing in shots" includes picturing how a story unfolds visually, considering angles, composition, and how private shots communicate significance and emotion.

Overall, Crowley's insight highlights adaptability and learning-- essential qualities for any director. It recommends that while the essence of storytelling is a common thread, mastering the specific language of a medium, such as visual structure in film, can be a significant hurdle. This highlights the double nature of directing as both an art and a craft, needing natural skill and found out ability to equate powerful stories across numerous kinds of media.