"I think Francis at half form is better than anybody else by 50%, you know? I think it's just that he has never... he has a late pick of the things that are ambitious enough for him"

This quote by John Milius provides a layered insight into his perception of Francis, most likely referring to the renowned filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola. Milius recommends a high regard for Francis's skill, asserting that even at "half form," or not running at his full capacity, Francis goes beyond others by a substantial margin--"50%." This hyperbolic declaration highlights the extraordinary natural capability and creativity Francis has in Milius's eyes.

The reference of "half form" implies that Francis may not always take advantage of or use his complete creative and intellectual capacity. It raises the concept that Francis's baseline talent is so high that even when he's not totally exerting himself, he beats his contemporaries. This could mean circumstances where Francis perhaps didn't use his full capabilities, yet his work either preserved or set a standard of excellence.

In addition, Milius discuss the idea of Francis having "a late choice of the important things that are enthusiastic enough for him." This suggests that the projects or opportunities that truly match his ambition and capabilities come less frequently or later on in his profession. This part of the declaration may assess Francis's career choices or the industry's constraints in providing opportunities that are difficult or grand sufficient to resonate with his talents.

Overall, Milius's quote encapsulates admiration for Francis Ford Coppola's innate genius, while subtly critiquing either the film industry's failure to offer substantial tasks or Coppola's own selectivity and timing in choosing projects. It underscores the belief that real sparkle often goes untapped or is constrained by external aspects, yet remains undoubtedly evident to observers of that talent.